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.
There are few views in Minnesota that are as iconic as those of - or from - Split Rock Lighthouse on the North Shore of Lake Superior. It's not only a sight that generations of Minnesotans would instantly recognize, it's also an important piece of history in Minnesota - as well as that of the United States Coast Guard and Great Lakes shipping. I think it's probably the most iconic view in Minnesota.
Split Rock Lighthouse is located on the gorgeous North Shore of Lake Superior between Gooseberry Falls State Park and the village of Beaver Bay. The lighthouse, museum, and grounds are managed by the Minnesota Historical Society and surrounded by the 2,200 acres of Split Rock Lighthouse State Park.
Split Rock is famous for being one of the most photographed and most visited lighthouses in the United States. I've personally photographed it so many times over the years that I had a difficult time deciding which of my photos to include in this piece.
Not only is it beautiful, but Split Rock Lighthouse in also historic. Congress appropriated funds to build it after a 1905 storm damaged 29 ships on Lake Superior. It was completed and began operating in 1910.
Lighthouse keepers and other Coast Guard personnel were stationed at Split Rock over the next 59 years, operating the powerful beacon to warn ships away from the rocky shallows near the headland. It was decommissioned in 1969 as technology decreased the need for manned lighthouse stations.
There are few other sights in Minnesota that are both immediately recognizable and historically significant in the same way that Split Rock Lighthouse is. That's why I think a view of the lighthouse is the most iconic in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. For information on visiting Split Rock Lighthouse, including hours and ticket information, visit its page on the Minnesota Historical Society website. If you find Split Rock to be particularly inspiring, you may want to indulge your fascination and lean into the lighthouse theme with a stay at the charming North Shore Lighthouse Suites in Duluth. This vacation rental makes an excellent base camp for staging your North Shore adventures - plus it has a lighthouse.
Do agree that Split Rock Lighthouse is one of the - if not the - most iconic views in Minnesota? Tell us what you think in the comments, and be sure to share your thoughts on other iconic views in our state, as well.
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!
