Something about Christmastime just makes you want to get out there and celebrate. Maybe it's the lights, the shopping, or the general feeling of cheer. Whatever it is, it's best to just go with the flow and not stress too much. You can start getting into the spirit by taking this road trip through six magical Christmas towns in Minnesota. We've kept it short this time, sticking to a route through southern Minnesota that you can do in one weekend.
This route through southern Minnesota's cutest Christmas towns is about 275 miles long. If you're ambitious, you could do it in one weekend. Check out the route here.
1. Stillwater
Starting the route in Stillwater, you'll be treated to one of the most adorable downtowns in Minnesota. Throughout the Christmas season, Victorian carolers stroll through the streets. Free horse-drawn carriage rides are another favorite. And while you're at it, you can do some shopping in one of Stillwater's many cute shops.
2. Red Wing
A little downriver from Stillwater, Red Wing doesn't hold back when it comes to spreading Christmas cheer. Throughout December, you can take advantage of a holiday boutique at Depot Gallery. Many holiday concerts also dot the Red Wing calendar. If all else fails, you can always meet Santa. You can have brunch with him at the St. James Hotel on December 18.
3. Winona
Winona is another impossibly cute town that deserves much more attention. The lighted parade through downtown may have already happened, but there is still plenty to do. The town is still lit up with trolley rides, concerts, and plenty of holiday shopping.
4. Owatonna
The Owatonna Christmas calendar is filled with more activities than you could possibly do in one day. That's why it might be a good idea to choose Owatonna for an overnight stay during this road trip. You can check out the holiday lights, pop into local shops, and maybe even check out some of the creations of the Owatonna Arts Center. This year, you can enjoy a walk-through origami display with a Christmas theme. Sounds magical, right?
5. Mankato
Mankato has lots to do during Christmastime. Perhaps the most well-known activity is the Kiwanis Christmas Lights Display. Thousands of lights brighten Sibley Park until December 31. You can even meet Santa at the park on weekends. If that's not enough, you can take a Christmas tour of the historic Hubbard House, take in a holiday concert, or join in the Holiday Light Bike Ride on December 16.
6. New Ulm
This road trip ends in Minnesota's German town, where Weinachten celebrations are already in full swing. Beautiful lights drape across downtown New Ulm, where other merrymakers are busy shopping at local stores. One of the most well-known events is the Schell's Brewery Christmas Luminary. Every Christmas Eve, the historic brewery lights up an impressive display. Visitors can stroll through in the last hours before Christmas day. It's a great way to end the season with a bang.
There you have it! Which Christmas towns would you add to this trip? Can you recommend any places in these towns? If you love road trips, also check out this magical Christmas lights road trip through Minnesota.
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