See The Very Best Of Minnesota’s North Shore In One Day On This Epic Road Trip
When it comes to road trips in Minnesota, travelers have nearly endless options. You can go on a haunted road trip, a waterfall road trip, or even a trip to all of our wackiest roadside attractions. In fact, one of the state’s most gorgeous regions is also one of the easiest to plan a road trip around; the North Shore has weeks worth of attractions to offer, and this is just one of many of the best road trips in Minnesota. Take a look:
During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
As the gateway to the North Shore, you wouldn't want to go on this road trip without first stopping in Duluth. While there are things to do all over the city, we suggest sticking to the Canal Park area. There are plenty of local shops and restaurants nearby, so grab a bite. Canal Park Brewing Company is one of the best.
After your stomach is full, head on out to the breakwater to take in some gorgeous Lake Superior views. If you're lucky, you'll get to see the famous Aerial Lift Bridge rise to let in a massive boat.
Next up is one of the most popular places in all of Minnesota. Gooseberry Falls State Park is filled with trails that take you through forests and alongside incredible Lake Superior views. But of course, the main event is the gorgeous waterfall from which the park gets its name. Some go swimming in the pool at its base, but it is equally fun to take in the beautiful view without getting wet. Whatever you decide, you can't miss this famous North Shore stop. Read more about Gooseberry Falls here.
3. Iona's Beach - Two Harbors
Iona’s Beach, 3532 Twin Points Trail, Two Harbors, MN 55616, USA
Next up is a lesser known beach that is full of beauty as well as mystery. As you walk up to the pink pebbled expanse, you'll notice a musical sound as the waves crash ashore. This is all of the thousands of rocks tinkling against each other as the water moves in and out. It's unlike anywhere else in Minnesota. The quiet stop will relax you as you prepare for the next leg of your journey. When it comes to the best parts of the best road trips in Minnesota, Iona's beach is on every single list. Learn more about this incredible natural wonder here.
4. Split Rock Lighthouse - Two Harbors
Split Rock Lighthouse Road, Split Rock Lighthouse Rd, Beaver Bay Township, MN 55616, USA
This spot is one of the most iconic views anywhere on Lake Superior, and it's a must-see regardless of how many times you've seen it. The best views are from the road below the cliff, but visiting the lighthouse is a great way to learn about Minnesota history. Either way, make sure to stop to appreciate one of the crown jewels of Minnesota's North Shore. Click here for more information about Split Rock Lighthouse.
5. Lemon Wolf Cafe - Beaver Bay
711 MacDonald Ave, Beaver Bay, MN 55601, USA
Lemon Wolf Cafe, 711 MacDonald Ave, Beaver Bay, MN 55601, USA
After all that driving, hiking, and waterfall viewing, you'll probably be hungry. While there are some famous restaurants in the area - Betty's Pies, to name one - why not try something a bit lesser known? Lemon Wolf Cafe is a lovely spot with absolutely delicious food. The menu combines fresh ingredients in new ways to bring you old favorites as well as flavorful new creations. No matter what you get, you're going to walk away with a full stomach. If you're interested in more information, eat all about it here.
Our next beach stop is one of the most unusual places along the entire North Shore. The black sands are such a departure from the typical rugged rocks of the North Shore that you won't even feel like you're in the same state. The bright red rock formations along the beach, coupled with blue waters and sky, are downright otherworldly. You do not want to miss this unusual location along the North Shore. Click here for more information about this awe-inspiring North Shore staple.
7. Tettegouche State Park - Silver Bay
Tettegouche State Park, 5702 MN-61, Silver Bay, MN 55614, USA
One of Minnesota's most rugged state parks, Tettegouche is full of great trails. One of the best is a short and sweet trail that leads to the second waterfall of our road trip. The 70-foot Baptism River Falls is the largest waterfall entirely within Minnesota, and it's a gorgeous way to experience the great outdoors. Tettegouche State Park was recently named the best in Minnesota!
8. George Crosby Manitou State Park - Finland
George Crosby Manitou Saint Park, George Crosby Manitou St Park, Lake No. 1, MN 55614, USA
This lesser known state park isn't directly on Highway 61, but that doesn't make it any less worth visiting. In fact, the location means fewer crowds, which means more opportunity for you to enjoy the peace and quiet of nature. The park is largely undeveloped, so it is best for those equipped with good hiking shoes and a desire to trek through uncharted forests. If that's not you, continue on to the final destination of the road trip. But if it is, prepare for thick forests, tall grasses, and possible wildlife sightings! Find more details about the park here.
8. My Sister's Place - Grand Marais
401 MN-61, Grand Marais, MN 55604, USA
My Sister's Place, 401 MN-61, Grand Marais, MN 55604, USA
Grand Marais is a bit of a hike from Duluth, so it would be wise to book a campsite if you think you'll arrive late. There are many in the area, including plenty in the various state parks along the North Shore. But if you plan on driving back the same day, you might want to stop for dinner in this charming town. There are lots of options, but our pick is My Sister's Place. This spot is a cozy, charming taste of the North Shore, and a fantastic way to end your road trip. You won't want to miss this stop, that's for sure.
What are some must-visit attractions in Minnesota?
Minnesota is often called a “flyover state” by folks who have simply never been there before. It’s a fascinating state with plenty of natural beauty and resources, and we really love it! You’ve just got to know where to look. Of course, there are always the obvious ones – like Mall of America, for example – but did you know that Minnesota is also home to a staggering 65+ state parks and recreation areas? It’s true – Minnesota is an outdoorsy person’s dream come true. You can’t miss places like the Weisman Art Museum, or the Science Museum of Minnesota, either. Sure, there is a ton and a half of remarkable natural splendor here, but don’t count out the man-made attractions either – you just might learn something! Minnesota’s waterfalls are another must-see to add to your to-do list; there’s the incredible Minnehaha Falls, in Minneapolis, and Gooseberry Falls State Park is sure to thrill even the most diehard waterfall fans.
What kinds of day trips in Minnesota can I go on?
With more than 65 awesome state parks scattered about the state, there’s no shortage of amazing day trips to be had. You could always do more city-based ones – go on a trip where you sample the best ice cream shops in the northern part of the state, for example – or you could do nature-based ones. One of our favorite scenic drives in the history of forever is right here in beautiful Minnesota: cruise along the North Shore for some of the most incredible views in the Midwest, if not the entire United States. You could also spend an entire day at any of Minnesota’s educational and fun zoos, museums, or parks – it’s up to you! For a more complete list of ideas for awesome day trips in Minnesota to do ASAP, you should check this article out.
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Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.
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