Trips & Routes

Trips & Routes
Cities

This Walkable River City in Minnesota Is a Must-Visit Gem

This stunning Minnesota city is easy to explore on foot, with scenic views, local shops, and must-see attractions all within walking distance.

by Trent Jonas
on Jun 3
Golden sunset reflecting on the Zumbro River with the Rochester, Minnesota skyline and a riverside path.
Trips & Routes

One of Minnesota’s Quirkiest Towns Is Still Flying Under the Radar

by Trent Jonas
on May 27
A tall, quirky wooden carving of the legendary St. Urho standing against a forest backdrop in Finland, Minnesota.
Trips & Routes

This Little-Known Waterfront Town Is One of the Most Charming in Minnesota

by Trent Jonas
on Apr 8
Sailboats docked at a marina in Lake City, Minnesota, with lake and hills in the background on a sunny day.
Trips & Routes

This Unexpected Attraction in Minnesota Is One of the Best Road Trip Stops You’ve Never Considered

by Trent Jonas
on Mar 26
A towering side-profile view of the historic rustic metal miner statue with a pick in Chisholm, Minnesota.
Trips & Routes

The Coastal Minnesota Town Locals Hope Stays Off Tourists’ Radar

by Trent Jonas
on Mar 4
Cross River Falls cascades heavily down jagged, dark rocky ledges surrounded by lush green trees in Schroeder, MN.

Latest Trips & Routes

Trips & Routes

The 6 Most Colorful Places You Can Find in Minnesota

Find the most colorful places to visit in Minnesota, from red stone quarries to stained glass art. Discover six destinations for your next Bold North adventure.

by Trent Jonas
on Feb 26
Winnewissa Falls cascades over vivid pink quartzite rocks beside a paved trail at Pipestone National Monument in MN.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

4 Small Towns in Minnesota So Dreamy, You’ll Swear You’ve Seen Them on TV

You’ll swear you’ve seen these four dreamy Minnesota towns on TV. Explore the cinematic charm of Chisholm, Luverne, Battle Lake, and Biwabik today.

by Trent Jonas
on Jan 30
The massive Iron Man Memorial statue stands atop a pedestal in Chisholm, Minnesota, honoring the iron ore miners of the Iron Range.
Trips & Routes

I Don’t Ski, but the Snow Tubing in Minnesota Is Incredible

Wild Mountain, near Taylors Falls, offers some of the best snow tubing in Minnesota. Enjoy multiple, conveyor-serviced runs, nighttime tubing, and a warming house with snacks and drinks.

by Trent Jonas
on Jan 13
A happy child raises their hands in excitement while sliding down a groomed white slope in a red and black snow tube.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

Discover the Minnesota Small Town That Looks Like a Hallmark Movie Setting

Charming Eveleth, Minnesota, is perched on the edge of a massive iron ore mine and is home to the United States Hockey Hall of Fame. It's the perfect setting for a Hallmark movie.

by Trent Jonas
on Nov 4
The world's biggest hockey stick and puck stand next to a colorful mural of boys playing hockey on a frozen pond.
Trips & Routes

This Minnesota Northwoods Town Looks Like Bavaria in the Fall and It’s Charming

Downtown Biwabik, Minnesota, is designed to resemble a Bavarian village. Embracing its status as a gateway community for a nearby ski resort, the town is particularly charming in fall and winter.

by Trent Jonas
on Oct 29
The buildings in a downtown area of a small Minnesota town were designed with Bavarian-style architecture.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

This Minnesota Town Turns Into ‘Halloweentown’ Each Fall (and It’s Spooktacular)

We may not be able to reach Halloweentown from Minnesota. But that's okay, because we are home to Anoka, the Halloween Capital of the World.

by Trent Jonas
on Sep 29
A weathered gravestone is surrounded by fallen leaves in Anoka, Minnesota.
Trips & Routes
Unique Trips

Can’t Make It to Lascaux Caves? Try This Minnesota Alternative

Here in Minnesota, we have our own version of cave paintings. Sites like the North Hegman Lake pictographs are smaller and less well-preserved than Lascaux Caves, but they're closer and unique to Minnesota.

by Trent Jonas
on Aug 10
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Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The Riverfront Village That Feels Like a Slice of Europe in the U.S.

The riverfront town of New Ulm, Minnesota, has deep German roots. A visit to the town offers a taste of Europe without need for a passport or a long flight.

by Trent Jonas
on Apr 9
A bronze, patinaed sculpture of a German warrior with a winged helmet stands atop a white iron cupola with a spiral staircase while holding a sword aloft.
Trips & Routes
Travel Preparation & Advice

Skip Europe This Summer: This Town in Minnesota Is Just as Charming as Sweden

Skip the customs lines this summer and get a taste of Europe in Minnesota. Lindström's Swedish roots make it feel like a whole other place.

by Trent Jonas
on May 19
A colorful mural depicting Lindström, Minnesota sits beneath the town's coffee-pot shaped water tower.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

Why Currie, Minnesota, the Gateway to Lake Shetek State Park, Is Worth a Visit in Its Own Right

Currie, Minnesota, is the gateway community for Lake Shetek State Park. There are plenty of other reasons to visit this charming small town, as well.

by Trent Jonas
on Jun 18
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Trips & Routes
Road Trips

My Perfect Summer Road Trip Route in Minnesota

This 3-day itinerary may be the perfect summer road trip route in Minnesota. It showcases national and state parks, as well as plenty of fascinating stops along the way.

by Trent Jonas
on Jun 18
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Trips & Routes
Day Trips

The 11 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take in Minnesota

Discover exciting day trips in Minnesota, from wine tours to mountain coasters and hidden restaurants.

by Betsy Rathburn
on May 31
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Trips & Routes
Day Trips

5 Easy Day Trips You Can Take From Rochester, Minnesota, My Favorite Included

Try these five easy day trips from Rochester, Minnesota. You're sure to love exploring this part of the state.

by Trent Jonas
on Apr 29
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Trips & Routes
Cities

The Walkable Minnesota Town That’s Known for Its Charming, Historic Downtown

Historic Hopkins is one of the most walkable cities in Minnesota, with its charming downtown, dining options, and many shops

by Trent Jonas
on Feb 28
A sunny street view of downtown Hopkins, Minnesota, featuring classic storefronts, parked cars, and a clear blue sky.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

I Went to Granite Falls, and I Don’t Know Why I Didn’t Visit This Small Town in Minnesota Sooner

Granite Falls is one of our writer's new favorite small towns in Minnesota, and it should definitely be on your bucket list

by Trent Jonas
on Feb 27
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Trips & Routes

Chase Some of Minnesota’s Most Wondrous Waterfalls and Wildlife on This Weekend Road Trip

Travel to every corner of Minnesota to take in as many of its natural wonders on this weekend road trip.

by Trent Jonas
on Feb 18
Gooseberry Falls State Park, North Shore of Lake Superior in Minnesota
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

Winter Transforms This Minnesota Riverfront Town Into a Peaceful Getaway

If you're looking for a laid back winter getaway, look no further than Taylors Falls; it's one of the best winter towns in Minnesota

by Trent Jonas
on Dec 22
A large stone sign for Interstate State Park in Taylors Falls, Minnesota, sits on a snowy lawn next to a park building.
Trips & Routes
Road Trips

Follow the Childhood Travels of Laura Ingalls Wilder on this Upper Midwest Road Trip

This Upper Midwest road trip will take you to some of the most significant settings in Laura Ingalls Wilder's 'Little House' books

by Trent Jonas
on Jan 2
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Trips & Routes
Small Towns

Minnesota’s Rising Star: This Underrated City Is Ideal for Any Traveler

Bemidji is a university town in the heart of the Northwoods, making it an ideal Minnesota city for travelers interested in an Up North experience

by Trent Jonas
on Dec 13
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Trips & Routes
Small Towns

There’s No Place Like My Hometown of Stillwater, Minnesota for the Holidays

I don't think there's another town that celebrates the holidays in Minnesota quite like my hometown of Stillwater

by Trent Jonas
on Nov 25
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Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The Up-and-Coming City in Minnesota That’s Perfectly Sized

Red Wing is a historic, up-and-coming city in Minnesota that's ideal in both size and location.

by Trent Jonas
on Nov 7
Multi-shot panorama looking east across Red Wing and the Mississippi from an elevated vantage.
Trips & Routes
Day Trips

This Minnesota Literary Road Trip Leads To 7 Incredible Bookstores And Libraries

This road trip in Minnesota will take you to several literary sites in the Bold North and some of the best bookstores in the Twin Cities.

by Trent Jonas
on Aug 12
A charming storefront of Birch Bark Books, featuring blue chairs, plants, and a welcoming entrance.
Trips & Routes
Unique Trips

7 Things That Belong On Everyone’s Minnesota Summer Bucket List

by Trent Jonas
on Aug 7
A serene campsite with a green tent, picnic table, fire pit, and a blue chair surrounded by trees and sunlight.
Trips & Routes
Travel Preparation & Advice

Your Ultimate Guide to Summer Fun in Minnesota

Folks in the Land of 10,000 Lakes fully embrace warm weather when it arrives. Here are 15 of the best things to do in Minnesota in summer.

by Trent Jonas
on May 7
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Trips & Routes

The Incredible Road Trip Through Minnesota That Leads You To 8 Stunning Lakes

by Trent Jonas
on Jun 13
Map highlighting a road trip route in Minnesota, showcasing eight stunning lakes and nearby parks.
Trips & Routes

I Took a Spontaneous Minnesota Road Trip (Here’s My Route)

Take a spontaneous Minnesota road trip with scenic parks, quirky stops, and a perfect weekend itinerary across the state.

by Trent Jonas
on Apr 8
Giant colorful tiger muskie statue under a pavilion in Nevis, Minnesota, known as the world's largest.
Trips & Routes

Visit 6 Of The Best Paul Bunyan-Themed Attractions In Minnesota On One Road Trip Adventure

by Trent Jonas
on May 28
A large wooden statue of a lumberjack waving, sitting on a tree stump in a park surrounded by greenery.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

This Blink-and-You’ll-Miss-It Town in Minnesota Is So Worth Exploring

Marcell, Minnesota, is a small community that in the heart of the Chippewa National Forest. Take some time explore this Northwoods Minnesota town.

by Trent Jonas
on Sep 22
A brown wooden sign on a fieldstone pedestal depicts a bald eagle and reads "Welcome to Marcell."
Trips & Routes

Discover 14 Of Minnesota’s Most Iconic Views On This Epic 14-Hour Road Trip

by Trent Jonas
on May 12
A grand cathedral illuminated at dusk, surrounded by trees and parked cars, with a clear blue sky above.
Trips & Routes

Get off the Freeway and Onto This Scenic Back Road Between Minneapolis/St. Paul and Duluth, Minnesota

Skip the interstate and discover a scenic back road filled with charming towns, river views, and unforgettable Minnesota scenery.

by Trent Jonas
on Mar 23
A small waterfall tumbles into a wide and slow river at Banning State Park in Minnesota.
Trips & Routes

Spend The Day Exploring Waterfalls In Minnesota’s Lake County

by Trent Jonas
on Apr 13
A scenic waterfall cascading down rocky cliffs, surrounded by lush green trees and a calm pool at the base.
Trips & Routes

The Breathtaking Scenic Drive Through Minnesota That Runs Along The Mississippi River

by Trent Jonas
on Mar 25
A scenic view of a river winding through lush green hills under a clear blue sky.
Trips & Routes

The Incredible Flower Road Trip Through Minnesota Is The Ultimate Spring Adventure

by Trent Jonas
on Feb 24
A close-up of a blue flower with green leaves, growing near a log in a grassy area.
Trips & Routes

The Perfect Minnesota Getaway To Take If You Have Been Dreaming Of Europe

by Trent Jonas
on Feb 15
A gondola on a calm river with a person in striped attire rowing, surrounded by trees in autumn colors.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

This Charming Community Might Just Be The Most Peaceful Place To Live In Minnesota

by Trent Jonas
on Dec 24
A street view of a small town featuring brick buildings, shops, and trees under a cloudy sky.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

Enjoy A Classical Christmas When You Visit This Charming Small Town In Minnesota

by Trent Jonas
on Dec 19
A fire truck decorated with lights, carrying two Santa figures, drives past a crowd during a nighttime holiday parade.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

Mantorville, Minnesota Is The Very Definition Of Small Town Charm

by Trent Jonas
on Dec 13
A quaint street scene featuring antique shops and patriotic decorations, with an American flag waving overhead.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The Cozy Small Town In Minnesota That Comes Alive Under A Blanket Of Snow

by Trent Jonas
on Dec 11
A great gray owl perched on a branch amidst falling snow in a forest setting.
Trips & Routes
Unique Trips

The Snowiest Region In Minnesota Is Perfect For A Magical Winter Getaway

by Trent Jonas
on Nov 28
Snow-covered cabins nestled among tall evergreen trees under a clear blue sky. A winding path leads through the scene.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

Tofte, Minnesota Is The Perfect Midwest Winter Travel Destination

by Trent Jonas
on Nov 14
A snowy pathway along the coast, with a view of colorful buildings and a calm sea under a blue sky.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

7 Christmas Towns In Minnesota That Will Fill Your Heart With Holiday Cheer

by Trent Jonas
on Nov 8
Aerial view of a snowy village illuminated with colorful holiday lights, creating a festive atmosphere at night.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

Tiny Aurora, Minnesota Is A Time Capsule Town That’s Irresistibly Charming And Nostalgic

by Trent Jonas
on Nov 6
A panoramic view of a small town surrounded by lush green trees and hills under a clear blue sky.
Trips & Routes
Day Trips

This Stunning European-Inspired Neighborhood In Minnesota Is The Perfect Place For A Day Trip

by Trent Jonas
on Oct 30
Charming courtyard with a fountain, surrounded by Tudor-style buildings and lush greenery.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

There Is A Unique Man-Made Wonder Hiding In This Small Town In Minnesota

by Trent Jonas
on Oct 24
A large, colorful fish sculpture under a pavilion, surrounded by picnic tables and flowers in a park setting.
Trips & Routes

The Under-The-Radar Scenic Drive In Minnesota That Showcases Forests, Lakes, And Wildflowers

by Trent Jonas
on Oct 19
Sign for Chippewa National Forest, featuring wooden logs and the U.S. Department of Agriculture emblem.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The Remote Small Town in Minnesota Locals Don’t Want You to Find

Crane Lake is a remote town in Minnesota that’s perfect for outdoor adventure and escaping the outside world for a few days.

by Trent Jonas
on Oct 10
A large statue of a man in historical attire, holding a paddle, surrounded by trees and a stone base with inscriptions.
Trips & Routes
Day Trips

This Pumpkin Patch And Cafe With Seasonal Goodies Are The Perfect Pair For A Fall Day Trip In Minnesota

by Trent Jonas
on Oct 10
A field of bright orange pumpkins arranged on grass, with a building and trees in the background.
Trips & Routes
Day Trips

Go Apple Picking, Then Stay In A Cozy Cabin In Minnesota On This Idyllic Fall Weekend Getaway

by Trent Jonas
on Oct 9
A red barn stands in the background, surrounded by apple trees with ripe apples under a clear blue sky.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The Enchanting Village In Minnesota That Is One Of The Best Places To Enjoy Autumn

by Trent Jonas
on Oct 3
A vibrant autumn landscape featuring a winding river surrounded by trees with colorful yellow and orange foliage.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The Small Town In Minnesota That Comes Alive In The Fall Season

by Trent Jonas
on Sep 23
A large, wooden deer statue wearing an orange vest and hat, standing on a log with a "Welcome to Deerwood" sign.