Looking for a day trip in Minnesota the entire family will enjoy? We have the perfect day for you and your family. The Northland Arboretum and Wildlife Safari are attractions you could easily spend an entire day at, so be sure to get an early start and have ample time to spend at both locations. Luckily, they’re less than 10 miles apart, so you won’t be spending much time in the car.

The Northland Arboretum is an arboretum and nature reserve in Brainerd/Baxter.
Teresa Beaudette/Google
The arboretum is open daily, but you'll want to check the website for hours and admission prices before you head over.
The non-profit space has an interesting history.
Linda/Google
Originally, the area was a giant landfill that closed down in the early 1970s. The arboretum was founded in 1972 and since then, has grown exponentially into one of the most beloved community spaces in Minnesota.
What was once a 40-acre landfill has blossomed into a beautiful, 400-acre picturesque space where you can take a leisurely stroll and admire the perfectly manicured landscape for all to enjoy.
David McBee/Google
Multiple gardens, footbridges, and reflective ponds will slip you into a state of serenity you didn't know you needed.
From Spring until the first frost, there's always something in bloom.
Northland Arboretum/Facebook
And the informational cards peppered around make this an educational experience for the whole family to enjoy.
After you've strolled through the arboretum, head over to Safari North, a wildlife park about seven miles away from the arboretum.
Safari North/Facebook
Just a quick trip down the road, you'll go from lily pads to lions.
Safari North is more than just a wildlife park, there are plenty of attractions here that will keep the entire family entertained for hours.
https://www.safarinorth.com
Safari North takes care of several reptiles, birds, and mammals, and you’ll get to meet them all during your visit.
https://www.safarinorth.com
Feeding the giraffes is always a memorable experience.
The parakeet encounter is an absolute must if there are any bird lovers in your crew.
Jason Dobrenski/Google
You'll get to spend time in an enclosure with hundreds of parakeets. They'll land on you, around you, everywhere! This would be the avian equivalent to a bathtub full of puppies, and we love it.
In addition to a playground, a snack shack, and a petting zoo, the kids will especially enjoy testing their mining skills at the mining sluice.
Northland Arboretum/Facebook
You might just find your hidden talent!

Be sure to visit both Wildlife Safari Park and Northland Arboretum’s websites for more information and start planning your epic day trip in Minnesota today. For a longer road trip, consider one of these scenic road trips in Minnesota.

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Featured Addresses
Safari North Wildlife Park, 8493 MN-371, Brainerd, MN 56401, USA
Northland Arboretum, 14250 Conservation Dr, Baxter, MN 56425, USA