Touring through the streets of Minneapolis, most people don't realize the rich architectural history that is hiding within the city. Passing by gorgeous modern structures like the Walker Art Center and IDS, it's hard to remember that Minnesota's true architectural gems are those that have been around for much longer. One of those stunning gems is the Turnblad Mansion, a stunning castle on the grounds of the American Swedish Institute.
Christopher Boehme and Victor Cordella designed this amazing mansion inspired by French architecture in 1903.
Ben (Bengt) Aronson did the impressive masonry, and Aaron Carlson Company was responsible for the cabinetry and woodworking, which are all still intact today.
This 30-Mile Train Ride Is The Most Relaxing Way To Enjoy Minnesota Scenery
The North Shore Scenic Railroad offers a picturesque 30-mile train ride from Duluth to Two Harbors, showcasing stunning views of Minnesota's North Shore.
The Land of 10,000 Lakes certainly isn't short on beautiful sights. Fortunately, here in Minnesota, there are more than a few excellent scenic train rides that will delight anyone who loves unique outings and admiring our state's coolest spots while traveling in vintage comfort and style. One of the best is a beautiful scenic train ride on the North Shore, starting in Duluth. The Two Harbors Turn on the North Shore Scenic Railroad is a 30-mile excursion that is the most relaxing way to see jaw-dropping waterfront scenery, hands down. Take a look and tell us this scenic train ride in Minnesota isn't just a dream come true.
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North Shore Scenic Railroad is a popular attraction on Minnesota's North Shore.
On this Duluth train ride to Two Harbors, travelers enjoy beautiful views of the North Shore. Lake Superior's choppy waters are on display from the windows of the historic train.
The North Shore's wooded surroundings are also beautiful. It’s beautiful in spring and summer, but fall is particularly awe-inspiring along this railway.
Scenic trips typically start at 10 a.m. on weekends in Duluth and return around 4 or 5 p.m. Though it is long, this trip is popular and tickets sell out fast - especially in fall - so be sure to book your trip well in advance!
You can preview your trip to and from Two Harbors in this YouTube video from North Shore Scenic Railroad:
The North Shore Scenic Railroad in Minnesota is just one of many scenic train ride options across the state, but this little slice of MN is definitely one of our favorite places, and perfect for enjoying via train! What are your favorite things to see and do in Duluth?
Have you ever taken a scenic train ride on the North Shore? What about elsewhere in Minnesota? Tell us about your adventures in the comments; we love hearing from you!
We love that Minnesota is full of history. It’s in everything from our state parks to our rock formations to some of our most beautiful buildings. In much of Minnesota's history, you can find that it extends a century or more back in time. That’s certainly the case for one special bridge that has been standing in Inver Grove Heights for more than a century. Though it has a long history, it stands today as a pedestrian bridge that happens to be one of the best spots to see the Mississippi River. Read on to learn more about the Rock Island Swing Bridge, one of the oldest bridges in Minnesota.
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The Rock Island Swing Bridge is a beautiful - and historic - spot in Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota. It's part of the lovely Swing Bridge Park.
Have you heard of the Rock Island Swinging Bridge, one of the oldest bridges in Minnesota? Would you ever visit? For a different perspective of the river, check out this Twin Cities Tour & Mississippi River Cruise from Bloomington. It’s a great way to spend the rest of your day in the area.
