Cool Places to Visit in Minnesota

Minnesota is a state with a rich history‚ stunning natural beauty‚ and vibrant culture. From the scenic North Shore to the bustling Mall of America‚ there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this Midwestern gem. Here are a few of the must-visit places in Minnesota⁚

Explore the North Shore Scenic Drive

The North Shore Scenic Drive is a breathtaking 145-mile route that hugs the western shore of Lake Superior‚ offering stunning views of the lake’s rugged coastline‚ cascading waterfalls‚ and towering cliffs. The drive is a popular destination for hikers‚ bikers‚ and sightseers alike‚ and there are plenty of opportunities to stop and explore along the way. Some of the highlights of the drive include⁚

• Split Rock Lighthouse⁚ This iconic lighthouse is perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking Lake Superior. It’s a popular spot for taking photos and enjoying the views.
• Gooseberry Falls State Park⁚ This park is home to a series of beautiful waterfalls that cascade into Lake Superior. There are several hiking trails in the park‚ ranging from easy to challenging.
• Grand Portage State Park⁚ This park is located at the northeastern tip of Minnesota‚ on the shores of Lake Superior. It’s a great place to go hiking‚ camping‚ and fishing.

The North Shore Scenic Drive is a must-do for anyone visiting Minnesota. It’s a beautiful and unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

Here are some tips for planning your trip⁚

• The drive can be done in one day‚ but it’s best to allow for two or three days to fully experience all that the area has to offer.
• There are plenty of places to stop and eat along the way‚ but it’s a good idea to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the many scenic overlooks.
• Be sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
• The drive can be busy during the summer months‚ so it’s best to visit during the spring or fall for a more peaceful experience.

Discover the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) is a vast and pristine wilderness area located in northern Minnesota‚ on the border with Canada. It’s a popular destination for canoeists‚ kayakers‚ and backpackers‚ and it offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the north woods. The BWCAW is home to over 1‚200 lakes‚ 2‚000 miles of canoe routes‚ and countless islands and campsites. It’s a place where you can truly get away from it all and immerse yourself in nature.

There are many different ways to explore the BWCAW‚ but the most popular way is by canoe. There are several entry points around the perimeter of the wilderness area‚ and you can choose to paddle for a day‚ a weekend‚ or even longer. There are also several hiking trails in the BWCAW‚ ranging from easy to challenging. If you’re looking for a more challenging experience‚ you can try backpacking into the BWCAW and camping overnight.

No matter how you choose to explore it‚ the BWCAW is a truly special place. It’s a place where you can connect with nature and experience the beauty of the north woods. Here are some tips for planning your trip⁚

• The BWCAW is a popular destination‚ so it’s important to plan your trip in advance. You’ll need to obtain a permit from the Forest Service before you can enter the wilderness area.
• There are several different entry points around the perimeter of the BWCAW. Choose an entry point that is close to the area you want to explore.
• Be sure to pack all of the essential gear you’ll need for your trip‚ including food‚ water‚ a tent‚ and a sleeping bag.
• The BWCAW is a remote area‚ so it’s important to be prepared for anything; Bring a map and compass‚ and let someone know your itinerary before you go.

Visit the Mall of America

The Mall of America is the largest shopping mall in the United States‚ and it’s a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Minnesota. With over 500 stores‚ 50 restaurants‚ and an indoor amusement park‚ there’s something for everyone at the Mall of America. It’s a great place to spend a day shopping‚ dining‚ and having fun.

The Mall of America is located in Bloomington‚ Minnesota‚ just minutes from the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. It’s easily accessible by car‚ public transportation‚ or taxi. Once you’re at the mall‚ you can park in one of the many parking garages or lots. The mall is open seven days a week‚ and there are extended hours during the holiday season.

Here are some tips for planning your visit to the Mall of America⁚

• Wear comfortable shoes‚ because you’ll be doing a lot of walking. The mall is huge‚ and it can be easy to get lost. It’s a good idea to pick up a map at the information desk.
• If you’re planning on doing a lot of shopping‚ bring a large bag or suitcase to carry your purchases.
• There are several different dining options at the Mall of America‚ from fast food to fine dining. You can also find a variety of snacks and drinks at the many kiosks and carts throughout the mall.
• The Mall of America is a popular destination‚ so it’s important to be prepared for crowds. If you’re visiting during the holiday season‚ expect the mall to be even more crowded.

Whether you’re a serious shopper or just looking for a fun day out‚ the Mall of America is a must-visit destination in Minnesota.

Experience the Walker Art Center

The Walker Art Center is one of the most respected contemporary art museums in the United States. It’s home to a world-renowned collection of modern and contemporary art‚ including works by Picasso‚ Warhol‚ and Calder. The Walker also hosts a variety of exhibitions‚ performances‚ and educational programs throughout the year.

The Walker Art Center is located in the heart of Minneapolis‚ Minnesota. It’s easily accessible by car‚ public transportation‚ or taxi. Once you’re at the museum‚ you can park in the underground parking garage or on the street. The Walker is open seven days a week‚ and there are extended hours on Thursdays and Fridays.

Here are some tips for planning your visit to the Walker Art Center⁚

• Allow plenty of time to explore the museum. The Walker is large‚ and there’s a lot to see. It’s easy to spend several hours wandering through the galleries.
• Take advantage of the free guided tours. Tours are offered daily‚ and they’re a great way to learn more about the museum’s collection and exhibitions.
• If you’re visiting with children‚ be sure to check out the Walker’s family programs. The museum offers a variety of activities and workshops designed for kids of all ages.
• The Walker Art Center is a popular destination‚ so it’s important to be prepared for crowds. If you’re visiting during the weekend‚ expect the museum to be more crowded.

Whether you’re an art lover or just looking for a fun and educational day out‚ the Walker Art Center is a must-visit destination in Minnesota.

Take a Trip to the Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge

The Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge is an iconic landmark in the city of Duluth‚ Minnesota. It’s the only working aerial lift bridge in the United States‚ and it’s one of the most photographed bridges in the world. The bridge spans the Duluth Ship Canal‚ and it connects the city of Duluth to the Park Point sandbar.

The Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge was built in 1905‚ and it was originally operated by steam power. In 1929‚ the bridge was converted to electric power‚ and it has been operating smoothly ever since. The bridge is raised and lowered several times a day to allow ships to pass through the canal.

Visitors to the Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge can walk or bike across the bridge‚ or they can take a boat tour of the canal. The bridge is also a popular spot for fishing and photography. Here are some tips for planning your visit to the Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge⁚

• The bridge is open 24 hours a day‚ but it’s best to visit during the day when you can get the best views of the city and the canal.
• If you’re driving‚ there are several parking lots located near the bridge.
• The bridge is a popular tourist destination‚ so it’s important to be prepared for crowds. If you’re visiting during the summer‚ expect the bridge to be more crowded.
• The bridge is raised and lowered several times a day to allow ships to pass through the canal. If you’re planning on walking or biking across the bridge‚ be sure to check the schedule before you go.

The Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Duluth‚ Minnesota. It’s a unique and iconic landmark that offers stunning views of the city and the canal.