Nature-loving explorers would be remiss to overlook the scenic state of Minnesota, as you’ll find an incredible abundance of beautiful scenery and nature-filled parks. From the mighty Mississippi River to Lake Superior, the Land of 10,000 Lakes is packed with bucket list-worthy outdoor adventures.
Whether you want to follow a waterside hiking path, admire cascading waterfalls, or enjoy seasonal activities like boating and paddling or skiing in winter, you are truly spoiled for choice. A long list of state parks and state forests provide endless options for outdoor recreation, while scenic road trips offer nature experiences for all activity levels.
It’s not just nature and the outdoors in Minnesota, as the Minneapolis-St. Paul area is a popular Midwestern metropolis with a thriving art and music scene. You can shop ‘til you drop in the Mall of America or get off the beaten path and explore one of Minnesota’s underrated, small-town charms like Grand Marais or Winona, where quaint main streets are dotted with locally-owned shops and galleries.
There are so many exciting things to see and do in The North Star State. It doesn’t matter if you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler to Minnesota – there’s always something new to discover.
To help narrow down your vacation itinerary, we’ve compiled a list of the best things to do in Minnesota. Our Minnesota bucket list includes the best outdoor activities, family-friendly attractions, charming towns, and hiking trails so that you can make the most of your visit.
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25 Fun and Unique Things to do in Minnesota
1. Explore the Outdoors in Minneapolis
Minneapolis is a vibrant city in Minnesota with a lively arts scene, excellent museums, top-rated performance spaces, and unique art installation displays. It’s also beloved for its picturesque urban parks, scenic trails, and lakes, making it easy to enjoy the outdoors. In fact, you’re never farther than six blocks away from a park in Minneapolis!
The Chain of Lakes Regional Park is a great place for a stroll, offering almost 15 miles of trails connecting five lakes. With a chance to enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and biking, it’s easy to see why this is the most popular destination in the Minneapolis park system. Minnehaha Regional Park is another outdoor favorite, where you can set up a picnic near the famous Minnehaha Falls.
If you’re a fan of architecture, the Stone Arch Bridge is one of the coolest Minnesota attractions. Constructed in 1883, this Historic Civil Engineering Landmark is the only stone arch bridge to have ever traversed the Mississippi River.
Walk or ride bikes from Father Hennepin Bluff Park to Mill Ruins Park and catch impressive views of the city skyline at sunset from its perch over St. Anthony Falls. From the bridge, it’s a short walk to other top Minnesota attractions, like Mill City Museum and Guthrie Theater.
2. Admire Larger-Than-Life Artwork at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
Checking out the unique sculptures at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is one of the coolest things to do in Minnesota. Not only is it free and open 365 days a year, but the 11-acre outdoor attraction is also one of the largest urban sculpture parks in the United States.
Part of the Walker Art Center, it has welcomed millions of visitors since opening in 1988. It showcases works from the center’s renowned collections of modern and contemporary art in the park and is a fun destination for all ages. Open from 6 am to midnight daily and featuring benches to sit and relax, the garden is the perfect mid-day stop between visiting other attractions.
Take a stroll around the expansive park and stop to see some of its highlights. Many will recognize the colorful Spoonbridge and Cherry by Claes Oldenburg and Coos van Bruggen. This 50-foot-long spoon and cherry sculpture has now become a familiar and iconic symbol for the Twin Cities.
You can also snap photos of Robert Indiana’s popular LOVE sculpture that has been replicated across the globe. One of the newest pieces is Okciyapi, a cast concrete engraved with Dakota language that’s designed to be a gathering place and site of reflection.
3. See Artifacts From Across the World at the Minneapolis Institute of Art
Another free attraction in Minneapolis, the Minneapolis Institute of Art is a must-see for all art lovers. It’s on the top of many Minnesota bucket lists, home to more than 90,000 works of art that span over 5,000 years of history.
You can see anything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to European masterpieces here, with its permanent exhibitions divided into themes. Stop by the Arts of Africa and the Americas, Asian Art, and Decorative Arts before browsing the Textiles and Sculpture, Paintings, and Photography and New Media.
If you’re looking for notable pieces, look for artwork by famous artists like Vincent van Gogh, Camile Pissarro, and Henri Matisse. Lucretia by Rembrandt is a popular oil on canvas painting, while van Gogh’s Olive Trees is also a must-see. A Jade Mountain sculpture from China, a suit of armor from Japan, and a Roman the Doryphoros sculpture from Italy are popular pieces.
For a more immersive experience, you can book a public or private guided tour of the museum. Your guide will invite you to look closely at the artwork and ask open-ended questions to help you make connections and engage in conversation.
4. Discover Historic Mansions in St. Paul
The capital of Minnesota, Saint Paul joins Minneapolis to create the “Twin Cities.” Its crown jewel is the Cathedral of St. Paul, a magnificent Renaissance-style landmark with stained-glass windows and marble columns that overlooks the city skyline.
You can step inside the imposing cathedral to marvel at its grandeur, take a tour, or attend religious services. Follow Summit Avenue past the Cathedral to see the largest and longest collection of Victorian buildings in the United States, which includes over 300 mansions still standing. Close to the cathedral is also the opulent James J. Hill House, which was built by the founder of the Great Northern Railroad in 1891.
Once the largest private residence in Minnesota, the James J. Hill House is a Gilded Age mansion and National Historic Landmark with 13 bathrooms, 22 fireplaces, 16 chandeliers, and a sky-lit art gallery. Other top sites in Saint Paul that will appeal to history buffs include the reconstructed grounds of Fort Snelling, a former military fortification, and Gibbs Farm, which is a unique site with costumed interpreters.
The State Capitol is another worthy landmark to visit in Saint Paul. Built in 1905, its most iconic feature is its marble dome and Quadriga, which are golden horses on its roof. For a closer look, sightseeing tours highlight the building’s architecture, history, and restoration.
5. Say Hello to Exotic Animals at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
One of the best free Minnesota attractions for families, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is home to a wide variety of animals. You can say hello to monkeys, polar bears, and sea lions or observe fierce tigers, wolves, and snow leopards.
See a giant Galapagos tortoise near the Bird Yard or visit the penguins in the Aquatic Animals building. If you’re brave, you can get up close to a green anaconda in the Tropical Encounters section and lions in the Large Cats exhibit, while friendly giraffes are found in the Africa Hoof Stock.
The park also has colorful gardens to explore. The Marjorie McNeely Conservatory houses the largest public bonsai collection in the upper Midwest, while the Orchid House features an award-winning neo-tropical Orchid Conservation Collection. In the Sunken Garden, you can enjoy azaleas and poinsettias in winter, tulips in spring, roses and geraniums in summer, and chrysanthemums in autumn.
If you want to make a weekend of it, Como Town is right next door. This family-friendly amusement park features non-stop fun for little ones with its fun rides and attractions, including swings, trains, face painting, and foam parties.
6. See Incredible Landscapes Along North Shore Scenic Drive
One of the best things to do in Minnesota, there is no greater spot to marvel at Minnesota’s beauty than along the North Shore Scenic Drive. Stretching from Duluth to the Canadian border on Minnesota State Highway 61 along the north shore of Lake Superior, this route perfectly showcases the state’s incredible natural scenery.
Hit the road on this designated “All American Road” and visit charming shoreline towns or stop to hike in one of the eight state parks along the way. There’s plenty to do and see, with the towns of Grand Marais, Two Harbors, and Silver Bay just a few of the must-see pit stops.
Some of the highlights of this journey also include the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Grand Portage State Park, and Pigeon River Country State Forest. You can go kayaking on Lake Superior, canoeing on the St. Louis River Estuary, or paddling around the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
Split Rock Lighthouse is a photogenic gem, while road trippers are spoiled for choice with views of waterfalls, rocky cliffs, and the never-ending Lake Superior along the way. Fall is a spectacular time to make the drive, and Duluth, Lutsen, Grand Marais, and Grand Portage State Park are just a few of the places known for providing incredible Northern Lights views!
7. Paddle the Waterways in Superior National Forest
Home to an impressive collection of pristine lakes and rivers, Superior National Forest spans a large section of northeast Minnesota. Covering 3 million acres, it offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, including camping, fishing, canoeing, and hiking, as well as cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and snowmobiling in winter months.
One of the most popular things to do in Minnesota for nature lovers, paddlers flock to Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness within the forest. It boasts several thousand lakes and streams that are perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and hiking.
The remote location of Superior National Forest makes it an ideal destination for wildlife watching as well. Set on the boundary between the US and Canada, you should keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, including bears, moose, and wolves.
The town of Ely, which is home to the famous International Wolf Center, makes an ideal base for sightseeing with several entry points on lakes around the city. However, Crane Lake, Grand Marias, and Tofte are other options.
8. Tour a Historic Landmark at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
Located on the North Shore of Lake Superior, Split Rock Lighthouse State Park is considered the most famous state park in Minnesota. It’s home to Split Rock Lighthouse, a beautiful cliffside landmark overlooking the lake.
In addition to being home to one of the most photogenic lighthouses in the United States, Split Rock Lighthouse State Park is also a popular destination for hiking, particularly in fall when the foliage is at its most colorful. You can even take a tour of the historic site in warmer months, from May 15 through October 15.
Visiting the lighthouse is one of those must-do things in Minnesota, with a climb to the top offering incredible views of the lake. Afterward, you can learn about the history of the area in the lighthouse museum or take a stroll along Pebble Beach.
Other top things to see and do at the park include walking or biking the Gitchi-Gami State Trail, which winds through the park and leads to a cascading waterfall. On the east side of the Split Rock River Loop Trail, you’ll find the Split Rock River Overlook, with views of Lake Superior and the river valley below.
9. Camp Near the Mighty Mississippi at Itasca State Park
Encompassing more than 32,000 acres of scenic wildlands in northern Minnesota, Itasca State Park is a great spot to get out in nature. Camping is a popular activity at Minnesota’s oldest state park, as well as swimming, boating, hiking, and fishing.
Most notably, the park is home to around 100 lakes, with its headwaters connected to the Mississippi River. You can spot a variety of birdlife in the park along the self-guided hiking trails, with these scenic paths shared with local wildlife such as deer and chipmunks.
History lovers will also love the park’s history dating back to 1891, and the array of historic landmarks you can visit. Drive past the 2,000-acre Wilderness Sanctuary, which is a National Natural Landmark, or visit the outdoor interpretive center showcasing the natural and cultural history of Itasca State Park.
Family-friendly, the park is a one-stop shop for outdoor recreation. Start your visit in the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center to browse the educational exhibits or relax in the fireplace lounge and watch birds through large observation windows while little ones enjoy the interactive play areas.
If you don’t want to camp, you can also stay overnight in the Historic Douglas Lodge. Hosting park visitors since 1905, it has a charming front porch, grand lobby, and large stone fireplace, along with an on-site restaurant serving Minnesota classics.
10. Shop ’til You Drop at the Mall of America
While most state guides don’t include a trip to the mall, Minnesota’s Mall of America is special. Considered by many to be one of the coolest things to do in Minnesota, this top-rated mall is the biggest in the United States and offers a shopping experience like no other.
Located in Bloomington and a short drive from downtown Minneapolis, the Mall of America features more than 500 retail stores. If that’s not enough to keep your itinerary full, it also features a kid-friendly indoor theme park called Nickelodeon Universe with exciting rides and Sea Life Minnesota, where you can get up close to sharks, sea turtles, jellyfish and walk inside a 300-foot-long ocean tunnel.
You can also visit some of the country’s most iconic sights on a flight simulation ride with FlyOver America or uncover clues with your friends and family at The Escape Game. When hunger pangs hit, you’ll find a long list of on-site dining options at the Mall of America to choose from, whether you prefer food court classics or a full-service restaurant.
If you’re tired after a full day of shopping, eating, and playing, there are two hotels attached to the mall, the Radisson Blu and the JW Marriott. With direct access, these hotels are convenient and make it easy to extend your day trip.
11. Join a Wildlife Cruise at Voyageurs National Park
If you’re up for an adventure, escape into the Minnesota wilderness at Voyageurs National Park. It’s one of the best things to do in Minnesota if you love outdoor recreation, offering year-round activities among its over 200,000 acres of aquatic ecosystems, hardwood forests, and wild and developed areas.
With so many waterways dotting this park, it’s a popular place to go boating, join guided sunset or wildlife cruises, rent a houseboat, or cruise through its waters via kayak or canoe. While water-based adventures on its many lakes (Rainy and Namekan are the biggest), fishing, hiking, and camping are also popular.
Since this is a water-based national park, all campsites require a watercraft. However, its Frontcountry campsites located on the shores and islands of the park’s large lakes are worth the trek to enjoy the nightly sunset by the waterfront campfire. If you prefer to take a guided boat tour, visit the park in summer and fall between June and September.
The mesmerizing Aurora Borealis often shine over Voyageurs’ skies, and there are two designated dark sky areas in the park where you can easily access the views (Meadwood Road Day Use Area and the Rainy Lake Visitor Center).
12. Visit Bear Island at Tettegouche State Park
If you love the outdoors, then you can add Tettegouche State Park to your Minnesota bucket list. Set along Lake Superior, it’s an excellent spot to enjoy hiking and swimming while ferry trips take you to nearby Bear Island.
It’s one of the most popular spots to see the shoreline on the North Shore, where you can walk along the lakeside cliffs. Head to Shovel Point for incredible views over Lake Superior and see if you can spot local rock climbers in action.
A short walk from the visitor center is a gravel beach where you can see the Baptism River connect with Lake Superior. Try your hand at skipping rocks on the water, or follow the Cascade Trail along the river to the Cascades Waterfall. Surrounded by towering pines, it’s a photogenic wonder. For an easier journey, drive to Palisade Head for panoramic views of Lake Superior.
To reach Bear Island, you’ll have to hop on the ferry and cross Turtle River from the park office. A remote getaway, this uncrowded destination is popular for hiking and camping. Once you return to the shoreline, nearby Grand Marais offers a wealth of attractions.
13. Explore the Art Scene in Grand Marais
Grand Marais is a picturesque town tucked into a natural Lake Superior harbor. In a small community of around 1,400 residents, you’ll find a surprisingly excellent art scene, as well as a charming downtown dotted with shops, galleries, and eateries.
Stroll the town’s main street and stop to browse artwork in galleries like Sivertson Art Gallery, or sign up for basket-weaving and other traditional craft at North House Folk School. There are nearly a dozen art galleries to choose from in the downtown area.
Walking to the lighthouse along the seawall is one of the most popular things to do in Grand Marais, as you can enjoy stunning views of Lake Superior and the Sawtooth Mountains. There’s a good chance you’ll spot an artist or two recreating the landscape on paper.
Other popular things to do in Grand Marais include kayaking to local beaches, bluffs, and small islands via guided outings on Lake Superior. For epic views, the Pincushion Mountain Trailhead just outside of the city takes you along a canyon above Devil Track River.
14. See Minnesota’s Tallest Waterfall at Grand Portage State Park
Grand Portage State Park’s claim to fame is its cascading waterfall. The tallest in the state, High Falls can be admired from the park’s multiple viewing decks and vantage points.
It’s an easy, one-mile round-trip hike to reach the natural wonder, while the more challenging 4.5-mile round-trip hike to Middle Falls offers a more wilderness experience. After stretching your legs, you can enjoy lunch or a snack at one of the several picnic areas. Several offer stunning views of the Pigeon River and Canada.
Wildlife watching is popular in Grand Portage State Park, with moose sometimes seen roaming the area. Head to the observation deck near the visitor center to see eagles flying through the air and otters playing on the rocks.
Make sure to stop and admire the four life-sized murals, visitor center lobby, and interpretive displays that provide an introduction to the culture and traditions of the Grand Portage Ojibwe people. Grand Portage State Park is the only state park located within an Indian Reservation on land owned by the Band.
15. Marvel at Scenic Waterfalls in Gooseberry Falls State Park
One of the best places in Minnesota for outdoor recreation, Gooseberry Falls State Park is considered the gateway to the North Shore. Some of the highlights of this state park include scenic waterfalls, a river gorge, the Lake Superior shoreline, and accessible multi-use trails.
Nature lovers can listen to the mighty roar of the Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls of the Gooseberry River and watch as it crashes onto a rocky gorge. You can also watch ships on Lake Superior from an ancient lava flow known as the Picnic Flow.
Birdwatching is popular here, with over 225 species that nest or visit the park. You can also spot white-tailed deer, black bears, gray wolves, and migratory Lake Superior salmon and trout.
Trails travel along the Gooseberry River and through evergreen and birch forests, while 2.5 miles of the trail connects to the Gitchi-Gami State Trail at the picnic flow parking lot. The park is also wheelchair accessible, beginning at the visitor center and extending to the main falls area.
16. Visit “The Island City” – Winona
If you’re looking for a getaway in southeastern Minnesota, head to the charming town of Winona. Located near the Wisconsin border, it’s packed with fun things to do and see.
First, you’ll want to take in the bluff-top perspective from Garvin Heights Overlook and Park to fully understand why this town is known as “The Island City.” From here, you can marvel at the lake, park, and Mississippi snaking its way through the valley.
Set along the riverfront, the Minnesota Marine Art Museum is one of the city’s top attractions. It showcases impressive artwork reflecting life on the rivers, lakes, and oceans and focuses on water’s role in human history via educational displays.
Just a short drive from Winona is the Great River Bluffs State Park, where you can enjoy scenic hikes, while Lake Winona is a hotspot for paddling in rented kayaks. After a long day of sightseeing, those 21 and up can enjoy cold beers at Island City Brewing Company or local wines at Garvin Heights Vineyards.
17. See Fall Foliage at Great River Bluffs State Park
Great River Bluffs State Park is a hiker’s paradise, offering scenic bluff-top views of the Mississippi River Valley. It’s particularly spectacular in the fall season, while warmer months are great times to enjoy camping, picnicking, and birdwatching.
Follow King’s Bluff Nature Trail to enjoy incredible vistas of the park’s natural landscapes, which include half-dome bluffs with sheer rock cliffs, steep valley walls, and rolling uplands. Bring your binoculars so you can spot waterfowl, eagles, and hawks as they soar over the valley.
The self-guided trail has interpretive signs along the way, making it easy to explore throughout the year. While fall gets all the attention, winter is also a fantastic time to enjoy snowshoeing or cross-country skiing in the park.
When you need a break, picnic tables and grills are available near the scenic overlooks. Camping is available for overnight adventures.
18. Hike the Waterfall Trail at Pipestone National Monument
Located in southwestern Minnesota, Pipestone National Monument was created in 1937. The monument signifies great respect and honor for Indigenous peoples and is considered an area of archaeological, ethnic, and historical importance.
For generations, American Indians have quarried the red pipestone found here. The grounds are sacred to many people because the pipestone quarried is carved into pipes used for prayer, with many believing the pipe’s smoke carries one prayer to the Great Spirit.
The traditions of quarrying and pipe-making continue here today, and you’ll find a wide range of indoor interpretive opportunities and hands-on activities from spring through fall. You can also get outside and hike the Circle Trail, which follows a creek to a waterfall and past ancient quarries still used by Native Americans today.
19. Swim from the Sandy Beaches at Whitewater State Park
Located in southeastern Minnesota, Whitewater State Park is popular for its picturesque limestone bluffs and deep ravines. Along with a year-round visitor center, there’s a sandy swimming beach and a collection of scenic hiking trails to explore.
Stretching across 2,700 acres, this park is also a hotspot for fishing enthusiasts who want to lure in brown, brook, and rainbow trout in the spring-fed Whitewater River and Trout Run Creek. Speaking of wildlife, wild turkey and bald eagles can be spotted throughout the year, as well as the rare Louisiana waterthrush bird.
You can hike Chimney Rock Trail for scenic views of the Whitewater River or follow the easy-to-follow Meadow Trail for a more accessible hike surrounded by the park’s dramatic bluffs. Trout Run Creek Trail is a two-mile self-guided walk that provides a scenic journey through a wooded valley.
Pack your lunch, as there are two picnic areas with tables, fire rings, and grills. In warmer months (from May 1 to Labor Day), nothing beats a refreshing dip in the spring-fed waters at the park’s scenic beach area.
20. Enjoy Dramatic Views of the St. Louis River at Jay Cooke State Park
Walking across the swinging bridge above the St. Louis River at Jay Cooke State Park is easily one of the coolest things to do in Minnesota. While crossing, you can peer over to marvel at the dramatic rocky river gorge below.
It’s a popular spot with hikers, offering 50 miles of hiking trails where you can capture views of the water-eroded gorge, steep valleys, and massive rock formations along the way. Many hikers come to admire the colorful wildflowers in spring or vivid fall foliage in autumn. In winter, there are excellent options for winter sports enthusiasts.
In fact, there are 20 miles of ski trails, plus an additional 12 miles as conditions and time allow. The snowmobile trail connects with the Willard Munger State Trail system, while snowshoeing trails cater to all skill levels, ranging from easy to difficult.
Jay Cooke State Park is also known for its unique historic sites, including the pioneer’s cemetery and several stone structures from the CCC era. Visit Oldenburg Point to see the Civilian Conservation Corps structures and picture-perfect views over the St. Louis River valley.
The park offers a variety of camping options, including tent campsites, RV campsites, and camper cabins. Cabins are available year-round and can accommodate up to six guests, offering screened porches and heat and electricity.
21. See Roaming Bison at Minneopa State Park
Minnesota’s third-oldest state park, Minneopa State Park is home to a newly re-established American bison herd. Animal lovers of all ages will love the scenic journey along Bison Drive Road, where you can spot the bison roaming around the 325 acres.
You’ll drive your own vehicle through the range and can listen to pre-recorded interpretive information over the radio. Only open on select days and times throughout the week, this wildlife-watching experience is one of the must-do things in Minnesota. While they can sometimes be difficult to spot, keep a watchful eye and visit the Seppmann Mill Overlook for a better chance of spotting them.
Minneopa State Park is also filled with unique natural and historical features, including Southern Minnesota’s largest waterfall. After you drive through the bison range to see North America’s largest mammal, you can walk down to the double waterfall and take in the natural splendor of the deep gorge.
From the group campground parking lot, take the short walk down to the junction of Minneola Creek and the Minnesota River State Water Trail. You’ll see colorful wildflowers blooming in spring, towering cottonwood trees, and the soothing sounds of rushing waters. Pack a picnic so you can enjoy lunch under the canopy of trees.
22. Take a Tour of Glensheen Mansion in Duluth
One of the most popular Minnesota attractions, the Glensheen Mansion is perched on the shore of Lake Superior. The 39-room mansion and estate offer a rare peek into the life of Minnesota’s most wealthy and influential families in the 20th century.
Spread across 12 acres, it’s the most visited historic home in Minnesota. You can see all five floors of the lakeside estate and its 20th-century craftsmanship and gardens on a Full Mansion Tour.
While you’re in Duluth, don’t miss seeing the famous Aerial Lift Bridge. It lifts more than 20 times a day for boats and giant ships that are traveling between Lake Superior and Duluth Harbor.
If you’ve got the kids in tow, they’ll love the aquatic animals at the Great Lakes Aquarium, which features touch pools and is home to everything from electric eels to American alligators. The Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center is another popular stop where you can learn about the region’s shipping industry.
23. Bike the Scenic Trails in Lanesboro
Nestled in the Bluffs of the Root River Valley, Lanesboro is one of the most charming towns in Minnesota. This year-round getaway is a popular hub for biking, while history museums, art galleries, and other outdoor pursuits like fly fishing are also popular.
Known for its multi-use trails, Lanesboro is located right in the heart of the 42-mile Root River Valley Trail and the 18-mile Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail. The former is considered one of the most scenic bike trails in the Midwest, offering an incredible setting among Minnesota’s rolling hills and towering bluffs.
Hop off your two wheels and explore more of what Lanesboro has to offer. The Commonweal Theatre Company puts on comedies, family-friendly shows, and musicals, while the Lanesboro Farmers Market sells locally grown and produced food from the region’s 1,500 farms.
24. Go Underground at the Longest Cave in Minnesota
In the pioneer town of Forestville, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported back in time. Guided tours offer the full experience, with a chance to connect with historic figures of the town and learn about life in the 20th century.
The tour begins at the visitor center and travels through the garden, kitchen, Meighen family house and offices, and general store filled with original 19th-century merchandise. If the site is closed, you can still explore the townsite on your own with a self-guided brochure map.
What makes this destination unique is that Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park surrounds Historic Forestville. Home to the longest cave in Minnesota, it features over 13 miles of underground passages with a variety of cave formations.
Cave tours are exciting for all ages, going underground to get eye-to-eye with stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, beautiful underground pools, and a maze of interconnecting passages. Don’t fret, as modern lighting and walkways enhance the underground tour.
25. Take a Tour of Prince’s Paisley Park
If you’re a Prince fan, a visit to Paisley Park is a must on any Minnesota bucket list. Where legendary musician Prince created, produced, and performed his music, Paisley Park draws visitors from across the globe. The historic venue today welcomes fans, musicians, and audiophiles for tours, concerts, festivals, and special events in Minneapolis.
Daily tours take you inside the musician’s daily life and sanctuary. You can admire artifacts from Prince’s personal archives, including awards, musical instruments, artwork, motorcycles, rare music, and video recordings.
A big highlight is seeing some of his concert wardrobe, including some of Prince’s gem-studded, light-up, and platform shoes he wore on stage. For a deeper look, upgrade to one of the VIP tours, which include exclusive access to additional spaces and exhibits, as well as an exclusive recording opportunity in Studio C.
Check the website’s calendar to find unique concerts and events held throughout the year. If you stay until dark, you can see the lights of Paisley Park turn lavender.
There you have it! The 25 best things to do in Minnesota. What’s your favorite thing to do in The North Star State?
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