12 Things To Do In Minnesota When You Thought You’ve Done Everything
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Betsy Rathburn
Author
Every once in a while, we all get stuck in a rut. Our usual routine becomes hum-drum, and we crave the excitement that comes with doing something out of the ordinary. Luckily, there are many opportunities for us Minnesotans to step out of the box and into fun new experiences. Next time you’re feeling a little stir crazy, try out any of these 12 unique things to do in Minnesota when you think you’ve done everything.
Palmer House Hotel & Restaurant, Sinclair Lewis Avenue, Sauk Centre, MN, USA
The Palmer House Hotel in Sauk Centre, Minnesota, is said to be the most haunted hotel in the entire state. But unlike many supposedly haunted locations, the Palmer House Hotel takes its reputation in stride. It offers guided tours of the hotel, including its spooky basement. And if that isn't enough for you, you can book an overnight stay in its most haunted rooms. If a stay in a haunted hotel doesn't get you out of your rut, what will?
Spirit Mountain Recreation Area, Spirit Mountain Place, Duluth, MN, USA
Looking for something a little more exhilarating? You might want to head up to Duluth, where Spirit Mountain rises above the land and offers an incredible high-speed mountain coaster experience. You'll whizz down the rails, which offer breathtaking views of the local landscape, including colorful tree and river views. The Timber Twister is definitely one of our favorite activities in Minnesota. Take a look at it in action in this video from Spirit Mountain:
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Stoney Ridge Treehouse, Acorn Road, Burtrum, MN, USA
What better way to jump-start a new routine than to completely step out of the old one? Instead of waking up in the same old bed, you'll wake up several feet of the ground among the birds and squirrels. Here in Minnesota, there are actually a few different treehouse hotels that you can sleep in overnight. Either way, you're in for a relaxing time that will leave you feeling recharged.
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Grant House Hotel, West 4th Street, Rush City, MN, USA
It may surprise you that a small town like Rush City, Minnesota, could be home to a haunted restaurant. But according to many who have eaten and stayed there over the years, it is true. The Grant House, a hotel and restaurant right on the corner of Highway 61, has even been featured on ghost-hunting television shows. If that's not enough of a reason to stop in, maybe their delicious menu will do the trick. Either way, this little restaurant is definitely worth the trip. Read more bout the Grant House and its haunted history.
End-O-Line Railroad Park and Museum, Currie, MN, USA
End-O-Line Railroad Park and Museum is a train lover's dream. It is located in Currie, Minnesota, right at the end of an old railroad line. The park is home to many old trains, including an impressive steam engine. There is also a turntable from 1901 that still works to this day! In addition to the cool trains, guests can also check out a fascinating museum made up of historic buildings filled with 100-year-old artifacts. We think this park is one of the true hidden gems in Minnesota.
The Salt Cave Minnesota, Nicollet Avenue, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Not only is a visit to The Salt Cave Minnesota relaxing, but it is also very beautiful. The glowing salt wall offers a calming atmosphere in this warm cave. Moreover, the salt is thought to have health benefits that will help you eliminate stress and feel rejuvenated.
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Extreme Sandbox - Minnesota, Glendale Road, Hastings, MN, USA
If you have an appetite for destruction, look no further than Minnesota's Extreme Sandbox. This place is part playground, part construction site. But it's 100% fun for anyone who has ever dreamt of operating a bulldozer. Whether you want to go head-to-head against a friend or just pick up heavy stuff, you'll have a blast doing it.
Bear Head Lake State Park, Bear Head State Park Road, Ely, MN, USA
Getting outside is always one of the best things to do in Minnesota. Most people who go to Ely are there to visit the Boundary Waters. Because of that, a nearby state park is often overlooked. But Bear Head Lake State Park is full of the same beauty and solitude as the Boundary Waters. You'll find crystal-clear lakes, thick forests, and maybe even a few animals lurking around. For example, one of our writers - somewhat appropriately - ran into this young black bear on a trail near the park entrance:
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Hairy Mosquito Trading Company, U.S. 169, Milaca, MN, USA
You'll know you've found Hairy Mosquito Trading Company the moment you see the large sculpture parked outside. This place is a dream if you love looking at whimsical treasures with a rustic flair. Here, you'll find both handmade items and supplies to make your own projects. And to top it all off, there is also a tasty ice cream shop on the premises.
Big Stone Mini Golf, County Road 110 West, Minnetrista, MN, USA
If you love looking at quirky art, Big Stone Mini Golf and Sculpture Garden may be right up your alley. As you walk through the course, you'll be greeted with unique, one-of-a-kind statues at every hole. On top of that, there is a petting zoo that houses chickens, goats, and pigs. It's a great activity that will bring fun to the whole family.
Wright County Swappers Meet, 100th Street Northwest, South Haven, MN, USA
The Wright County Swappers Meet has been family owned and operated since 1970, and it's still going strong today. In busy summer months, the flea market is home to hundreds of different vendors, who sell everything from vintage signs to craft supplies. Even during the fall season, the flea market is still a fantastic place to get unique new-to-you goodies. It is open every Saturday through October.
LARK Toys, 170th Avenue, Kellogg, MN, USA
Sure, you can shop for toys at the Mall of America or any big-box store. But why not make a special trip to the largest toy store in all of Minnesota? LARK Toys offers up 20,000 square feet of fun, containing everything from books to collectible toys to a hand-carved wooden carousel. Adult visitors will love the nostalgic trip of looking at the vintage toys in Memory Lane. All in all, a visit to this huge toy store will add some childlike excitement to your life.
You could put a few of these suggestions together into a Minnesota road trip. Just book your accommodations ahead of time and make a weekend of it! Which of these unique things to do in Minnesota would you try? What are some other lesser known activities in Minnesota that you think we should know about? Let us know in the comments!
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More to Explore
Unique things to do in minnesota
What are some other unique things to do in Minnesota?
The Land of 10,000 Lakes is such a varied state with so many different facets that you will likely never run out of unique things to do in Minnesota. Some of our favorites include:
- Attending a food festival in the "Restaurant Capital of the World."
- Checking out a few destinations you may not even know existed.
- Looking for hidden gem parks, forests, and state recreation areas.
- Driving some of Minnesota's best scenic byways.
- Paddling Lake Superior sea caves along Minnesota's stunning North Shore.
- Spending a weekend - or a week - under the stars and northern lights in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
- Trying all the newest foods - many of which come on a stick - at the Minnesota State Fair.
- Walking the world's longest elevated pedestrian walking loop: the Treetop Trail at the Minnesota Zoo.
- Declaring your devotion with a padlock at a bridge over the Vermillion River - in sight of Vermillion Falls - in Hastings.
- Trying to find the state's steepest, curviest roads - while avoiding extraterrestrial street traffic.
- Visiting historic Fort Snelling - home to the oldest building in the state of Minnesota.