Top 10 Things to Do in Minnesota
Introduction
Hi, I’m Emily Johnson and I’m a proud Minnesotan. I’ve lived in this beautiful state for over 10 years and I can say without a doubt that Minnesota has something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature lover or a city dweller, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Minnesota. In this article, I’ll be sharing my top 10 things to do in Minnesota, based on my personal experiences and opinions.
Top Statistics and Facts
- Minnesota is known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, but there are actually over 11,800 lakes in the state.
- The Mall of America, located in Bloomington, is the largest mall in the United States and attracts over 40 million visitors annually.
- Minnesota is home to the largest population of timberwolves in the lower 48 states, with an estimated 2,655 wolves.
- The state bird of Minnesota is the common loon, which can be found on many of the state’s lakes.
- The Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul are home to over 3 million people, making it the 16th largest metropolitan area in the United States.
Top 10 Things to Do in Minnesota
Visit the North Shore
One of the most breathtakingly beautiful areas of Minnesota is the North Shore, which runs along the shore of Lake Superior. Some of the must-see attractions on the North Shore include Split Rock Lighthouse, Gooseberry Falls State Park, and the Superior Hiking Trail.
Personal Experience: I took a weekend trip to the North Shore last summer and it was one of the most memorable trips I’ve ever taken. The views of Lake Superior are truly stunning and the hiking trails are some of the best in the state.
Explore the Boundary Waters
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is a million-acre wilderness area located in the northern part of Minnesota. It’s a popular destination for canoeing, camping, and fishing.
Personal Experience: I’ve gone on a few camping trips in the Boundary Waters and it’s always a peaceful and rejuvenating experience. There’s nothing like disconnecting from technology and spending a few days in nature.
Visit the Mall of America
As mentioned earlier, the Mall of America is the largest mall in the United States. It’s home to over 500 stores, a theme park, an aquarium, and much more.
Personal Experience: While the Mall of America can be overwhelming, it’s also a fun place to spend a day. I recommend checking out the roller coasters at Nickelodeon Universe and grabbing a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants.
Check out the Twin Cities
Minneapolis and St. Paul are two of the most vibrant cities in the Midwest. Some of the top attractions in the Twin Cities include the Walker Art Center, the Minnesota State Capitol, and the Minnesota Zoo.
Personal Experience: I’ve lived in Minneapolis for the past few years and I love it. There’s always something to do, whether it’s checking out a new restaurant or attending a concert at First Avenue.
Visit the Minnesota State Fair
The Minnesota State Fair is one of the largest state fairs in the United States and attracts over 2 million visitors annually. Some of the top attractions at the fair include the butter sculptures, the animal barns, and the food on a stick.
Personal Experience: Going to the Minnesota State Fair is a tradition for many Minnesotans, myself included. I always make sure to try a new food on a stick every year.
Take a Mississippi River Cruise
The Mississippi River runs through Minnesota and there are several companies that offer cruises along the river. It’s a great way to see the state from a different perspective.
Personal Experience: I went on a Mississippi River cruise with my family a few years ago and it was a really fun experience. We saw some beautiful scenery and learned a lot about the history of the river.
Visit the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is a 1,200-acre botanical garden located in Chaska. It’s home to over 5,000 plant species and is a great place to go for a walk or a picnic.
Personal Experience: I’ve visited the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum several times and it’s always a peaceful and beautiful place to spend an afternoon.
Go Skiing or Snowboarding
Minnesota is home to several ski resorts, including Afton Alps and Lutsen Mountains. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there’s a hill for you.
Personal Experience: I’m not much of a skier myself, but I have friends who swear by the skiing at Lutsen Mountains.
Visit the Science Museum of Minnesota
The Science Museum of Minnesota is located in St. Paul and is a great place to take kids or anyone who’s interested in science. Some of the top exhibits at the museum include the dinosaur fossils and the interactive exhibits on weather.
Personal Experience: I visited the Science Museum of Minnesota on a field trip when I was in elementary school and I still remember how cool it was.
Take a Brewery Tour
Minnesota has a thriving craft beer scene and there are dozens of breweries throughout the state. Taking a brewery tour is a fun way to learn about the brewing process and sample some delicious beer.
Personal Experience: I’ve gone on several brewery tours with friends and it’s always a fun time. Some of my favorite breweries include Surly Brewing and Dangerous Man Brewing.
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit Minnesota?
It really depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re interested in outdoor activities like hiking and camping, then the summer months are your best bet. If you’re more interested in winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, then the winter months are the way to go.
What is the weather like in Minnesota?
Minnesota has a continental climate, which means that it has hot summers and cold winters. The temperature can range from below zero in the winter to over 90 degrees in the summer.
What are some other attractions in Minnesota?
Other popular attractions in Minnesota include the Como Zoo and Conservatory, the Minnesota History Center, and the Minneapolis Institute of Art.