While there’s no shortage of things to do in Minnesota, especially during the summer, it can sometimes be hard to plan exciting day trips near me. After all, it’s much easier to fall back into the same old activities year after year. But this summer, why not try something new? The following list of day trips will give you something new to do every week of the summer. They’re also some of the best day trips in Minnesota. Take a look below and make plans to do some of them this summer, or better yet, all of them.

1. Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail
Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail, Mankato, MN, USA
Scoops Elysian/Facebook
This trail is long, but there are many places to enter and exit. There's one route in particular that offers something extra sweet at the end. Once you make it through the forests, lakes, and small towns that line the path, you'll end up at a little ice cream shop to grab a much-needed cool treat after your workout.

We've written another article about Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail.
2. Kawishiwi Falls Trail
Kawishiwi Falls Trail, Fernberg Rd, Ely, MN, USA
Jim Liestman/Flickr
In northern Minnesota, this secluded trail is just short enough to be doable even if you have kids with you. It's a 1.5-mile loop trail through the forest, and it ends with a spectacular 70-foot waterfall. It's a favorite spot of those in the know, but it goes unnoticed by many. That makes it a day trip that is as peaceful as it is beautiful.

We've written another article about Minnesota's Kawishiwi Falls Trail.
3. Monson Lake State Park
Monson Lake State Park, 1690 15th St NE, Sunburg, MN 56289, USA
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
This little known state park is one of the smallest and least-visited parks in all of Minnesota. But that doesn't mean it's not worth a visit. In fact, it may be ideal if you're looking for some peace and quiet. The lovely Monson Lake is the center of it all, offering great trails, fishing, and gorgeous views.

We've written another article about Monson Lake State Park.
4. Root River
Root River, Minnesota, USA
Michael Hicks/Flickr
You could just visit the small towns that line the Root River as it winds through southern Minnesota. Or you could take in the picturesque landscape in a totally unique way. Pop in to Root River Outfitters in Lanesboro to rent a tube, then take an hours-long float down this lazy river. It'll be the coolest day trip you take all summer.

We've written another article about Minnesota's Root River.
5. Franconia Sculpture Park
Franconia Sculpture Park, 29836 St Croix Trail N, Shafer, MN 55074, USA
m01229/Flickr
A personal favorite, this sculpture park in Shafer, Minnesota is seriously awesome! It's a fun time whether or not you have kids, with many whimsical sculptures, several of which you can climb and interact with. And don't forget to check out the amazing, colorful playground. Best of all, this park is completely free to visit.

We've written another article about Minnesota's Franconia Sculpture Park.
6. Iona's Beach
Iona’s Beach, 3532 Twin Points Trail, Two Harbors, MN 55616, USA
Justin Meissen/Flickr
This unique beach is the perfect trip if you can't get enough of the North Shore. But it'll allow you to skip the typical stops at Gooseberry Falls and Split Rock Lighthouse. As soon as you stop at this beach, which is just off Highway 61, you'll be in awe at the spectacular pink color. And if you listen carefully, you can even hear the thousands of rocks chiming a song as the waves hit the shore.

We've written another article about Iona's Beach.

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7. Tamarack Nature Center
Tamarack Nature Center, 5287 Otter Lake Rd, White Bear Township, MN 55110, USA
Ramsey County Minnesota/Flickr
Looking for a fun place to spend the day with kids? Tamarack Nature Center is a nature preserve in White Bear Lake, Minnesota. It has over 300 acres of trails and discovery areas. A special spot for kids gives them a hands-on lesson about science. And because it involves water, it will also cool them down.

We've written another article about Minnesota's Tamarack Nature Center.
8. Barn Bluff
Barn Bluff, Red Wing, MN 55066, USA
Scott Costello/Flickr
Here's another gorgeous hike with a view. But just like all hikes of this kind, it's totally worth it. This one takes you atop of the historic Barn Bluff to look over the city of Red Wing. With the Mississippi River and Lake Pepin in full view, you'll feel like you've stepped into a postcard.

We've written another article about Barn Bluff.
9. Rochester Trolley & Tour Co.
970 14th Ave SW, Rochester, MN 55902, USA
Rochester Trolley & Tour Company/Facebook
Here's a day trip that might leave you a bit woozy in the best way possible. Kick back and let someone else take the wheel as you meander through southern Minnesota's wine country. You'll visit several vineyards and wineries along the way, sampling local wines and taking in the hilly landscape.

We've written another article about the Rochester Trolley & Tour Company.
10. Hokah Pool
Hokah Pool, Como St, Hokah, MN 55941, USA
Hokah Pool/Facebook
Love to swim, but don't love typical pools? This spring-fed pool in southern Minnesota is a nice stop. It's surrounded by the rolling hills surrounding the town of Hokah, so it's a beautiful spot even if you don't swim. But with the fresh water and sandy bottom, you're going to want to swim.

We've written another article about Hokah Pool.
11. Big Stone Mini Golf
Big Stone Mini Golf, County Road 110 West, Minnetrista, MN, USA
Big Stone Mini Golf and Sculpture Garden/Facebook
This day trip will allow you to get outdoors without the stress of packing hiking gear. Head out to Minnetrista for a day of fun at this park that is part sculpture garden and part mini golf. As an added bonus, they even have farm animals to pet.

We've written another article about Minnesota's Big Stone Mini Golf and Sculpture Garden.
12. Ely
Ely, MN 55731, USA
Greg Gjerdingen/Flickr
A town as gorgeous and surrounded by nature as Ely deserves more than a day trip. But if a day is all you have to spend in northern Minnesota, you could do much worse than this gorgeous town. Check out the quaint shops and restaurants, check out any community events, and bask in the glory of nature on all sides.

We've written another article about Ely, Minnesota.

What are some other Minnesota getaways that belong on this list? What do you think are the best day trips in Minnesota? Let us know in the comments below.

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best day trips in minnesota

Jennifer Young | April 22, 2022

What are three unique things to do around Minnesota?

There are several unique things to see and do in Minnesota. We've listed three of our favorites below.

1. Visit the world's only Frank Lloyd Wright gas station.

Frank Lloyd Wright was one of the world's greatest architects. The only Frank Lloyd Wright gas station is in Minnesota. It opened in in 1958 and is still operating today.

2. Visit the Elf Door at Demings Height Park in Minneapolis.

While strolling through Deming Heights Park, you'll come across a whimsical elf door. Rumor has it that an elf leaves surprises for children inside the door. You can also leave trinkets if you wish.

3. Visit the Wabasha Street Caves in Saint Paul.

The Wabasha Street Caves were formed underneath a large plateau and have been used for several different things. In the early 1900s, it was used as a mushroom farm. During the days of prohibition, it was a speakeasy. In the 1970s, it was used as a disco. Today, the caves are used for hosting events.

What's one of the best getaway spots in Minnesota?

Are you currently in need of a getaway? Sometimes we could all use a getaway to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There are several places in Minnesota that are perfect for a getaway, including the St. James Hotel in Red Wing. This historic hotel offers ultimate rest and relaxation. It also has several premium rooms, including some that offer great views of the Mississippi River. If you've been wanting to get away for the weekend, consider booking a stay at the St. James Hotel. You won't be disappointed!

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