12 Out Of This World Summer Day Trips To Take In Minnesota

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

7. Tamarack Nature Center

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

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.

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

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

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

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.