7 Best Places to Visit in Minnesota in 2025

LAST UPDATED ON: 02/09/2025

Discover the Best Places to Visit in Minnesota that showcase the stunning beauty and rich history of this remarkable region.

Welcome to Minnesota, the North Star State! Get ready for an adventure, because this state is like a giant playground just waiting to be explored. Whether your family loves the bright lights and exciting sounds of the city or the quiet whisper of the wind in the pine trees, Minnesota has something special for you.

Think of Minnesota as having two amazing personalities. In the southern part of the state, especially around the cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul (called the Twin Cities), you’ll find incredible indoor fun, world-class museums, and one of the biggest malls on the planet. This is the perfect place for an action-packed trip any time of year. Then, as you travel north, the cities give way to vast forests, sparkling blue lakes, and rugged, wild nature. This is “Up North” Minnesota, a place for boating, hiking, stargazing, and making memories around a campfire. Knowing about these two different kinds of adventures is the first step in planning the perfect trip for your family.

To get you excited, here are some super cool facts about this amazing state:

• The Land of More Than 10,000 Lakes: Minnesota is famous for its nickname, the “Land of 10,000 Lakes.” But guess what? That’s not even the whole story! The state actually has 11,842 lakes that are bigger than 10 acres.¹
• A Giant River’s Tiny Start: The mighty Mississippi River, the third-largest river in the world, starts right here in Minnesota. And at its beginning, it’s just a small, shallow stream that you can actually walk across!.¹
• Home of Awesome Inventions: Some of the most fun things were invented in Minnesota, including waterskiing and modern rollerblades. So, you can thank Minnesota for some of your favorite summer activities.¹
• A Famous Basketball Team’s Secret: Have you heard of the Los Angeles Lakers basketball team? They are called the “Lakers” because the team was originally from Minnesota—the land of lakes!.¹

Your Minnesota Adventure Guide: 7 Best Places to Visit in Minnesota

We’ve picked out seven of the very best places in Minnesota for a family adventure. This list gives you a great mix of everything the state has to offer, from thrilling rides and amazing animals to breathtaking nature and incredible history.

To help you plan, here’s a quick look at our top spots. This table can help your family decide which adventure is the right fit for your time, budget, and interests.

Place Name	Best For…	Best Season	Cost ($, $$, $$$)
Voyageurs National Park	Boating & Stargazing	Summer	$$
North Shore & Split Rock Lighthouse	Epic Views & Hiking	Summer, Fall	$
Itasca State Park	History & Nature Fun	Summer, Fall	$
Mall of America	Rainy Day Fun & Thrills	Year-Round	$$$
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory	Animals & Beautiful Gardens	Year-Round	Free ($)
Pipestone National Monument	Culture & History	Spring, Summer, Fall	Free
Minneapolis Institute of Art	Art & Imagination	Year-Round	Free

(Cost Guide: Free = No required entry fee; $ = Under $50 for a family; $$= $50-$150 for a family;$$$ = Over $150 for a family)

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1. Voyageurs National Park – A Water Wilderness Wonderland

Imagine a national park where there are almost no roads and the main highways are made of water. That’s Voyageurs National Park! It’s a special place made up of huge lakes, dozens of islands, and thick green forests. The park is named after the French-Canadian voyageurs, who were adventurous fur traders that paddled these very waters in big canoes hundreds of years ago.⁵ A trip here is an adventure into a wild, beautiful world where you travel by boat and might even see the Northern Lights dance across the night sky.⁷

Location

• Voyageurs National Park is located in the far northern part of Minnesota, right along the border with Canada. The main gateways to the park are through the towns of International Falls, Kabetogama Lake, Ash River, and Crane Lake.⁵

Timing

• The best time to visit for water activities is in the summer, from late May (Memorial Day) to early September (Labor Day).⁸ During these months, the weather is warm and perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming. The park’s four visitor centers are open daily during the summer, but some have limited hours or close in the winter, so it’s always a good idea to check the park’s official website before you go.⁹ Winter offers a completely different kind of fun, with chances for snowmobiling and even driving on an ice road.⁷

How to Reach There

Getting to Voyageurs is a unique adventure in itself. You will drive your car to one of the park’s visitor centers, but that’s where the roads end. To truly explore the park, you have to get on the water.⁶ This is a critical part of planning your trip; your main mode of transportation will be a boat. Families have several fun options:

Rent a Motorboat: Many local businesses rent out boats for a day or a week, which gives you the freedom to explore the lakes and islands on your own schedule.⁹

Take a Guided Tour: The park offers fantastic ranger-led boat tours that take you to historic and scenic spots like the Kettle Falls Hotel or the Ellsworth Rock Gardens. This is a great way to learn about the park’s history and nature.⁶

Paddle a Canoe or Kayak: For a quieter adventure, you can rent canoes or kayaks to paddle along the shorelines and explore peaceful bays.⁶

Rent a Houseboat: For the ultimate Voyageurs experience, you can rent a houseboat and live right on the lake! You can anchor in a different beautiful cove each night and fall asleep to the sound of lapping water.⁷

Important Tips

• Look for the Northern Lights: Because Voyageurs is so far north and away from city lights, it is one of the best places in the country to see the aurora borealis. On a clear night, you might see green and purple lights dancing across the sky.⁷
• Visit the Ellsworth Rock Gardens: Take a boat to see what some people call the “Showplace of Lake Kabetogama.” Over 60 years ago, a man named Jack Ellsworth built amazing sculptures and flower gardens on a rocky point, creating a work of art in the middle of the wilderness.⁹
• Go Fishing: The lakes are famous for their great fishing. You can try to catch walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass. It’s a perfect activity for the whole family.⁹
• Listen for Loons and Wolves: At night, listen for the haunting call of the loon across the water. If you’re very quiet and lucky, you might even hear the howl of a timber wolf, as Minnesota has one of the largest wolf populations in the lower 48 states.¹

How Much Does It Cost? (Entry Fees)

• There is no entrance fee to get into Voyageurs National Park.¹² However, you will need to pay for certain activities. There are fees for reserving a campsite, getting a permit for a houseboat, or buying tickets for a guided boat tour.⁵

Things to Keep in Mind

• Be Prepared for Boating: The weather on the big lakes can change very fast. Always bring rain gear and extra warm layers, even on a sunny day. And most importantly, everyone should wear a life jacket when on the water.
• Store Your Food Safely: This is a wild park with black bears. You must store all your food, drinks, and scented items in a locked vehicle, a boat cabin, or a metal bear-proof locker provided at campsites. This keeps both you and the bears safe.⁹
• You’ll Be “Off the Grid”: Cell phone service can be hard to find in many parts of the park. It’s a great chance to unplug and enjoy nature. Make sure you have maps and know where you are going before you head out.

Nearest Restaurant

• Inside the Park: The Kettle Falls Hotel Dining Room is a truly unique experience. It’s a historic hotel located deep inside the park and is only reachable by boat. They serve classic American food in a rustic setting.¹³
• Near Kabetogama: Arrowhead Lodge & Resort has a restaurant right on the water where you can enjoy burgers and dinners.¹⁵
• Rocky Ledge Restaurant & Bar is another casual spot known for its “Buckko Burger”.¹⁵
• Near International Falls: The Chocolate Moose Restaurant Company is a fun place for the whole family.¹⁷
• For Italian food, you can visit Giovanni’s.¹⁷

Nearest Hotel

• Inside the Park: The only hotel located within Voyageurs National Park is the historic Kettle Falls Hotel. Staying here is like taking a step back in time.¹⁴
• Near International Falls: There are many familiar hotel options, including the AmericInn by Wyndham and the Cobblestone Hotel & Suites.¹⁹
• Resorts and Cabins: For a classic Minnesota “Up North” experience, you can stay at a lakeside resort. Island View Lodge on Rainy Lake ²⁰ and Voyageur Park Lodge on Lake Kabetogama ²¹ both offer cozy cabins with beautiful views.

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2. The North Shore & Split Rock Lighthouse – A Legendary Road Trip

Get ready for one of the most beautiful drives in the entire country! The North Shore Scenic Drive is a road trip adventure that follows the edge of Lake Superior, the world’s largest freshwater lake.¹ As you drive, you’ll see the giant, sparkling lake on one side and tall, rocky cliffs and deep green forests on the other. The most famous sight along the way is the Split Rock Lighthouse, a historic landmark perched on top of a 130-foot cliff. It’s one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world and a must-see stop on your journey.¹⁰

Location

• The North Shore Scenic Drive follows Minnesota Highway 61, starting from the city of Duluth and heading northeast all the way to the Canadian border.¹⁰ Split Rock Lighthouse State Park is located about 20 miles northeast of the town of Two Harbors. Its address is3755 Split Rock Lighthouse Road, Two Harbors, MN 55616.²³

Timing

• Summer is a wonderful time to visit, with warm days and cool breezes coming off the lake. However, many people believe the best time to go is in the fall (late September to mid-October) when the forests explode into amazing shades of red, orange, and yellow. The State Park is open all year from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m..²⁵ The historic lighthouse site itself has specific hours. During the main season (usually May to October), it is open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. The hours are shorter in the spring and fall, so it’s very important to check the Minnesota Historical Society (MNHS) website for the latest schedule before your visit.²⁴

How to Reach There

• The best way to experience the North Shore is by car. It’s a classic road trip. You can start in Duluth and drive up Highway 61, taking your time to stop at all the amazing state parks, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks along the way.¹⁰

Important Tips

• Walk on Pebble Beach: At the bottom of the cliff below the lighthouse is Pebble Beach. Instead of sand, it’s covered with millions of smooth, flat rocks that are perfect for skipping across the water of Lake Superior.²³
• Hike for the Perfect Photo: While the view from the lighthouse is amazing, some of the best pictures of the lighthouse itself are taken from the hiking trails within the state park. A short hike will give you that classic, postcard-perfect view of the lighthouse on its cliff.²³
• Watch for Giant Ships: The lighthouse was built over 100 years ago to help keep big ships safe from the rocky shore during storms.²⁴ Today, you can still see huge ore freighters passing by far out on the lake.
• Bike the Gitchi-Gami State Trail: If your family loves to bike, bring them along! A beautiful paved bike trail called the Gitchi-Gami State Trail runs right through the park and along the shore, offering incredible views of the lake.²³

Entry Fees

• Visiting Split Rock can be a little confusing because there are two parts to it with two separate fees. It is important to understand this before you go to avoid surprises. The area is divided into the State Park and the Historic Site, which are right next to each other but are managed by different groups.
• To Enter the State Park: To park your car and access the hiking trails, the picnic areas, and Pebble Beach, you need a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit. A permit for one day costs $7. If you plan to visit other state parks, a year-round permit for $35 is a great deal.²⁹
• To Tour the Lighthouse: To go up into the lighthouse, see the foghorn building, and tour the keeper’s house, you need to buy a separate ticket from the Minnesota Historical Society (MNHS). Tickets are about $15 for adults and $8 for children (ages 5-17). Kids 4 and under are free.²⁴

Things to Keep in Mind

• Dress in Layers: Even on a warm summer day, the wind coming off of giant Lake Superior can be chilly. It’s always a good idea to bring sweatshirts or light jackets for everyone.³⁰
• Wear Sturdy Shoes: The trails around the park and down to the beach are beautiful but can be rocky and uneven. Good walking shoes or hiking boots will make exploring much more comfortable and safe.
• A Special Day to Remember: Every year on November 10th, the lighthouse turns on its powerful beacon. This is done to remember a famous shipwreck, the Edmund Fitzgerald, which sank in a storm in 1975. It’s a very special and historic event to witness if you are in the area.²⁵

Nearest Restaurant

In Beaver Bay (a short drive north): For a casual meal, check out Cove Point Crossing Bar & Grill, which serves pizza, wraps, and sandwiches.³² For a treat, Two One Ate Sweets and Eats has homemade ice cream, sandwiches, and smoothies.³²

In Two Harbors (a short drive south): Ledge Rock Grille offers a fancier dining experience with beautiful views.³³ For a true taste of the North Shore, stop at Russ Kendall’s Smokehouse for some delicious smoked fish.³³

Nearest Hotel

Closest Option: Cove Point Lodge in Beaver Bay is a beautiful resort with lodge rooms and cozy cottages right on the shore of Lake Superior. It is very close to the lighthouse.³⁴

Lodge and Cabin Experience: Grand Superior Lodge, located south of the lighthouse, offers lodge rooms and cabins and has a restaurant on-site.³⁴

Fun Camping Alternative: For a unique experience, North Shore Camping Co. in Beaver Bay offers “glamping” in large, comfortable tents, which is a fun way to camp without having to bring all your own gear.³⁴

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3. Itasca State Park – Walk Across the Mississippi River!

Here is your chance to do something amazing: walk across the mighty Mississippi River! At Itasca State Park, the great river that flows over 2,500 miles to the Gulf of Mexico begins as a small, clear stream you can easily cross by hopping on rocks or wading in the shallow water.³ Established in 1891, Itasca is Minnesota’s very first state park, created to protect the incredible old-growth pine forests. Some of the trees here are hundreds of years old and tower over you like gentle giants. It’s a place of history, nature, and unforgettable family fun.³⁹

Location

• Itasca State Park is located in north-central Minnesota, about an hour’s drive from the town of Bemidji. The official park address is 36750 Main Park Drive, Park Rapids, MN 56470.⁴¹

Timing

• The park itself is open every day of the year from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m..⁴¹ The best time to visit for walking in the river and enjoying most of the activities is during the summer and early fall. The historic Douglas Lodge, restaurants, gift shops, and boat tours have seasonal hours, so it is a good idea to check the park’s website for the most current information before you visit.⁴¹

How to Reach

• The easiest way to get to Itasca State Park is by car. It is about a 3.5 to 4-hour drive north from the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. The drive takes you through beautiful Minnesota lake country.

Important Tips

• Take the Classic Headwaters Photo: A trip to Itasca isn’t complete without a family picture next to the famous wooden monument that marks the start of the Mississippi River. It reads, “Here 1475 feet above the ocean the mighty Mississippi begins to flow on its winding way 2552 miles to the Gulf of Mexico”.³
• Climb the Aiton Heights Fire Tower: For a bird’s-eye view of the whole park, take a short hike and climb the 100-foot-tall historic fire tower. From the top, you can see for miles over the forest canopy and the many lakes.⁴¹
• Bike the Wilderness Drive: A 16-mile paved trail winds through the park, perfect for a family bike ride. You can rent bikes in the park and enjoy the scenic loop through the tall pines. Part of the route is a dedicated trail, while the rest follows a one-way road shared with cars.³
• Go on a Narrated Boat Tour: Learn about the park’s history and wildlife on the Chester Charles II boat tour. The relaxing cruise on Lake Itasca is a great way to see the park from a different perspective.⁴⁰

Entry Fees

• To enter any Minnesota State Park, including Itasca, your vehicle needs a permit. You can buy a one-day permit for $7 or a year-round permit for $35, which gets you into all Minnesota state parks for a full year. The year-round permit is a great value if you plan to visit more than one park.²⁶ Activities like boat tours and bike rentals have their own separate fees.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Bring Water Shoes: The rocks at the Mississippi headwaters can be a bit slippery. Wearing water shoes or old sneakers makes it much easier and safer to walk across the river.
• It Can Be Crowded: Itasca is one of Minnesota’s most popular state parks, and over 500,000 people visit each year.³⁸ The headwaters area can get very busy, especially on summer weekends. For a quieter experience, try visiting on a weekday or arriving early in the morning.
• Stay Inside the Park: One of the best things about Itasca is the variety of places to stay right inside the park. This allows you to wake up in the middle of nature and start exploring right away. You can choose from camping, staying in a historic lodge, or renting your own cabin.⁴⁵

Nearest Restaurant

• Inside the Park: You don’t have to leave the park to find a good meal! The Douglas Lodge Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a beautiful historic dining room.⁴¹
• For a more casual option, the Mary Gibbs Cafe, located right next to the headwaters, offers sandwiches, snacks, coffee, and hand-dipped ice cream.⁴¹
• Outside the Park: The nearby towns of Park Rapids and Bemidji have many other restaurant options if you feel like exploring the area.

Nearest Hotel

• Inside the Park: This is the best way to experience Itasca! The park offers a wide range of lodging options. You can camp at one of the hundreds of campsites, stay in a historic room at the Douglas Lodge, rent a modern suite at the Headwaters Inn, or book one of the many cozy cabins scattered throughout the park.⁴⁵
• Near the Park: If you prefer to stay outside the park, the Heartland Inn Hotel & Suites in Park Rapids is a comfortable and convenient option, located about a 30-minute drive away.⁴²

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4. Mall of America – America’s Biggest Funhouse

Welcome to a shopping mall that’s so much more than just a mall—it’s a giant, indoor city of fun! The Mall of America is the largest shopping and entertainment destination in the United States.⁵⁰ It’s so big that you could fit 32 jumbo jet airplanes inside of it!¹ In the center of the mall is a full-size theme park with rollercoasters and rides. There’s also a massive aquarium where you can walk through a tunnel surrounded by sharks, a place where you can play with melted crayons, and hundreds of stores and restaurants. It’s the perfect place for an unforgettable day of family fun, especially on a rainy or snowy day.

Location

• The Mall of America is located in Bloomington, Minnesota, a suburb right next to Minneapolis and St. Paul. Its address is 60 E Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425. It is conveniently located just minutes from the Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP) International Airport.⁵¹

Timing

• The mall is open every day of the year except for Thanksgiving and Christmas. The general shopping hours are Monday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, and Sunday from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm. The hours for the theme park, aquarium, and some restaurants can be different, so it’s always a good idea to check the Mall of America website for the most up-to-date times before you go.⁵¹

How to Reach

• By Car: There are two huge, seven-story parking ramps attached to the mall, and parking is completely free.⁵³
• By Light Rail Train: The METRO Blue Line train is a fantastic way to get to the mall. It runs from downtown Minneapolis, stops at the airport, and drops you off right at the mall’s front door. It’s cheap, easy, and you don’t have to worry about traffic.⁵¹
• By Hotel Shuttle: Nearly all of the hotels in Bloomington offer free shuttle bus service to and from the mall, making it super convenient if you are staying nearby.⁵¹

Important Tips

• Focus on the Fun: While there are over 500 stores, the real excitement for kids comes from the attractions. Make sure you plan time for Nickelodeon Universe®, the seven-acre indoor theme park.⁵² SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium, where you can see thousands of sea creatures ⁵¹; the Crayola Experience, a hands-on attraction with dozens of creative activities ⁵¹; and FlyOver America, a thrilling ride that makes you feel like you’re flying over the country’s most beautiful landscapes.⁵¹
• Tax-Free Shopping: Here’s a great tip for parents: in Minnesota, there is no sales tax on clothing or shoes! This makes the mall a great place to shop for back-to-school outfits or new sneakers.⁵¹
• Look for Free Events: The mall’s central rotunda often hosts free events, like concerts, celebrity book signings, and holiday celebrations. Check the mall’s event calendar to see if anything special is happening during your visit.⁵¹
• Buy a Wristband: If you plan to spend a lot of time on the rides at Nickelodeon Universe, the best value is usually to buy an unlimited ride wristband. This lets you go on as many rides as you want all day long.⁵⁶

Entry Fees

• It is completely free to walk into the Mall of America and look around. However, all of the major attractions require you to buy a ticket. You will need to pay for a wristband for Nickelodeon Universe, admission to the SEA LIFE Aquarium, and entry to the Crayola Experience. You can often find deals or bundle tickets online that can save you money if you plan to visit multiple attractions.⁵²

Things to Keep in Mind

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The mall is enormous, covering 5.6 million square feet.⁵³ You will do a lot of walking, so make sure everyone in the family is wearing comfortable shoes.
• Make a Plan: Before you go, look at a map of the mall online. With four floors and hundreds of stores, it can be overwhelming. Decide on a few must-do attractions or stores to help guide your day.
• It’s Always 70 Degrees: No matter what the weather is like outside—whether it’s a hot summer day or a freezing winter blizzard—the temperature inside the mall is always kept at a comfortable 70°F (21°C).⁵⁸

Nearest Restaurant

• You don’t need to go anywhere! The Mall of America is a giant food court with over 60 different places to eat, so you are sure to find something for everyone.⁵⁰
• Fun Themed Restaurants: For a memorable experience, try the Rainforest Cafe, where you eat in a jungle surrounded by animatronic animals, thunderstorms, and waterfalls.⁵⁹
• Cadillac Ranch is another fun spot with all-American food and a cool vibe.⁶⁰
• Casual and Quick: You’ll find all the kid-friendly favorites in the food courts, including A&W, Burger King, Chick-fil-A, Panda Express, and Sbarro.⁶¹
• Sit-Down Meals: For a nice family dinner, restaurants like FireLake Grill House ⁶² and Hazelwood Food + Drink ⁶³ offer delicious meals just steps from the shopping action.

Nearest Hotel

• Directly Connected: For the ultimate convenience, two hotels are physically attached to the mall by a skyway: the Radisson Blu Mall of America ⁵⁵ and the JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America.⁵¹ You can walk from your room to the mall without ever going outside.
• Across the Street: There are many excellent hotels right across the street, most of which offer free shuttles. Great options include the Homewood Suites by Hilton ⁵⁵, AC Hotel by Marriott ⁵⁵, and Holiday Inn Express & Suites.⁵⁵

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5. Como Park Zoo & Conservatory – Animals and Gardens Galore

Get ready for a day of amazing discoveries at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory in Saint Paul. It’s a special place where you can see incredible animals from all over the world—like majestic polar bears, playful gorillas, and tall, graceful giraffes—and then step inside a beautiful, sparkling glass palace filled with tropical plants and fragrant flowers. It feels like visiting a jungle and a zoo all in one place! And the best part of all? It’s free for everyone to enjoy.¹⁰

Location

• Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is located in a large, beautiful park in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The address is 1225 Estabrook Drive, Saint Paul, MN 55103.⁶⁸

Timing

• You can visit any day of the year, because Como is open 365 days a year!
• Summer Hours (from May 1 to Labor Day): 10:00 am to 6:00 pm daily.
• Winter Hours (from the day after Labor Day to April 30): 10:00 am to 4:00 pm daily.⁷⁰

How to Reach

• The easiest way to get to Como Park is by car. There are several parking lots around the zoo and park, but they can fill up quickly on busy days. You can also take a city bus, which has stops near the park.

Important Tips

• Explore the Sunken Garden: Inside the beautiful glass conservatory is the Sunken Garden. The flowers here are changed out five times a year, so there is always something new and colorful to see. From bright tulips in the spring to festive poinsettias in the winter, it’s always a stunning display.⁷¹
• Check the Daily Schedule: Look online or at the entrance for the schedule of zookeeper talks, animal feedings, and shows. Watching the “Sparky the Sea Lion” show or a gorilla feeding is a great way to learn more about the animals from the people who care for them.⁶⁸
• Have Fun at Como Town: Located right next to the zoo, Como Town is a family-friendly amusement park with over 20 rides and attractions designed especially for younger kids. It’s the perfect place to let them burn off some energy.⁷²
• Ride the Historic Carousel: Don’t miss a ride on Cafesjian’s Carousel. This beautiful, old-fashioned carousel has 68 hand-carved horses and is a magical experience for all ages.⁷²

Entry Fees

• Admission to both the Como Park Zoo and the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory is completely FREE! While it doesn’t cost anything to get in, they do suggest a voluntary donation of $4 for an adult and $2 for a child to help support the care of the animals and plants. But you are welcome to visit whether you donate or not.⁶⁷ Some extra activities, like the amusement park rides or feeding the giraffes, have a small fee.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Arrive Early on Weekends: Because it is free and so popular, Como can get very crowded, especially on sunny weekends and holidays. Arriving right when it opens can help you find parking and see the animals when they are most active.
• Sensory-Friendly Resources: Como Park Zoo and Conservatory can be a busy place with lots of sounds and colors. For visitors who might find this overwhelming, the park offers a “Social Narrative” guide on its website. This guide helps prepare you for your visit by showing you pictures and explaining what you can expect to see and hear.⁷⁰
• Pack a Picnic Lunch: While you can buy food at the zoo, the large surrounding Como Park is a perfect spot for a picnic. There are plenty of grassy areas and picnic tables where you can relax and enjoy a meal together.

Nearest Restaurant

• Inside the Park: You can find several places to eat right on the grounds. The Zoböta Café in the Visitor Center offers meals and snacks indoors, and Pier 56 is an outdoor café near the seal and sea lion exhibit with classic treats like fish and chips and hot dogs.⁷³
• You can also eat at Dock & Paddle, a restaurant at the Como Lakeside Pavilion that overlooks the lake.⁷⁶
• Just Outside the Park: A short walk or drive from the park on Como Avenue is The Finnish Bistro, a cozy cafe that serves coffee, pastries, and authentic European food.⁷⁷

Nearest Hotel

• Closest and Most Unique: The Best Western Plus Como Park Hotel is a very cool hotel located in a restored historic train repair shop. It’s the closest hotel to the park and offers a unique place to stay.⁷⁸
• In Nearby Roseville: A short drive from the park, the suburb of Roseville has many family-friendly hotels. Good options include the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson ⁷⁹ and the DoubleTree by Hilton, which are close to lots of shopping and restaurants.⁷⁸

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6. Pipestone National Monument – A Sacred Journey into History

Get ready to visit a place that is not just beautiful, but also very sacred. For thousands of years, Native American people from many different tribes have traveled to this special spot in southwestern Minnesota. They come here to quarry a soft, red stone called pipestone. This stone is then carefully carved into sacred pipes, which are used for prayer and important ceremonies.⁸² A visit to Pipestone National Monument is a chance to walk on peaceful trails, learn about a living culture, see a beautiful waterfall, and understand why this ground is so important to so many people.⁸⁴

Location

• Pipestone National Monument is located in the very southwestern corner of Minnesota, just north of the city of Pipestone. The address is 36 Reservation Ave, Pipestone, MN 56164.⁸⁵

Timing

• You can visit the park grounds any time you want! The ¾-mile paved Circle Trail is open 24 hours a day, all year long. The Visitor Center, where you can see exhibits and a film, has seasonal hours:
• March through November: Open daily from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
• December through February: Open Tuesday through Saturday, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.⁸⁷
• The visitor center is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.⁸⁶

How to Reach

• The best way to get to this special place is by car. It is located just off of major highways like US Route 75 and Minnesota Highway 23. Once you get to the town of Pipestone, there are signs that will lead you directly to the monument.⁸⁵

Important Tips

• Watch the Cultural Demonstrators: The best part of a visit is watching Native American artists at work. From spring through fall, carvers are often in the visitor center, skillfully shaping the red stone into pipes and other beautiful objects. They are happy to talk to you and answer questions about their craft and its meaning.⁸³
• Walk the Circle Trail: This easy, paved trail is perfect for families. It takes you on a loop past the active quarries where enrolled members of federally recognized tribes still quarry stone today. The trail also leads you through the tallgrass prairie and to the lovely Winnewissa Falls.⁸³
• Become a Junior Ranger: Stop by the visitor center and ask for a Junior Ranger activity book. Kids can complete fun activities as they explore the monument and earn a special badge to take home.⁸³
• See the Park Film: Before you walk the trail, watch the 22-minute film called Pipestone: An Unbroken Legacy. It does a wonderful job of explaining the history of the quarries and why the pipe is so important in Native American culture.⁸³

Entry Fees

• It is completely FREE to visit Pipestone National Monument. There are no fees for entrance, parking, or any of the programs.⁸⁵

Things to Keep in Mind

• This is a Sacred Place: It is very important to remember that this is not just a park; it is a place of deep spiritual importance and a living cultural site. The quarries are still actively used today by people practicing their traditions. Please be respectful during your visit. Stay on the marked trails, speak quietly, and do not touch or disturb the quarry pits or any prayer offerings you might see. Visiting with respect makes the experience more meaningful for everyone.
• The Trail is Paved: The Circle Trail is paved and mostly flat, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
• Check for Demonstrators: The cultural demonstrations are a highlight, but they happen mostly from May through October. If this is important to you, plan your visit during those months.

Nearest Restaurant

• All of the nearest restaurants are located in the nearby town of Pipestone.
• Stonehouse & Quarry Lounge: This restaurant is in a cool historic building and serves classic American food.⁹¹
• Pizza Ranch: A great choice for families, this restaurant has a buffet with pizza, chicken, a salad bar, and dessert.⁹¹
• Los Tulipanes Mexican Restaurant: If you’re in the mood for tacos and enchiladas, this is a popular local spot.⁹¹

Nearest Hotel

• Crossings by GrandStay® Hotel & Suites: This is a modern hotel with comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and free breakfast. It’s often rated as the top hotel in town.⁹⁵
• Americas Best Value Inn: This is another reliable and affordable option for families visiting the area.⁹⁵

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7. Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) – An Adventure Through World Art

Imagine a place where you can travel through time and explore the entire world without ever leaving a single building. That place is the Minneapolis Institute of Art, or Mia for short! Inside this huge, beautiful museum, you can see real mummies from ancient Egypt, stand next to the armor of a medieval knight, and discover amazing paintings and sculptures from every corner of the globe. Mia is home to more than 100,000 works of art, and it’s a place to let your curiosity and imagination run wild. Best of all, it’s always free for everyone to visit!¹⁰

Location

• Mia is located in the heart of Minneapolis, not far from downtown. The address is 2400 Third Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55404.⁹⁹

Timing

• The museum is open every day of the week except for Mondays.
• Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
• Thursday: Open late, from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm. Monday: Closed.⁹⁷
• The museum is also closed on major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.98

How to Reach

• Because it is located in a major city, Mia is easy to get to. You can drive and park in the museum’s parking ramp (there is a fee for parking). You can also take a city bus, which has stops very close to the museum, or even ride your bike.

Important Tips

• Go on a Scavenger Hunt: The museum is enormous, so a fun way to explore is to make your own scavenger hunt. Before you go, look at some of the art on Mia’s website and make a list of things to find. For example, you could search for a painting with a horse in it, a sculpture made of wood, or the oldest object you can find.
• Use Your Phone as a Tour Guide: Mia has free Wi-Fi, and you can use your own phone or tablet to access audio guides and stories about the art. Just look for a special symbol on the art labels, and you can listen to cool facts and secrets about the object you’re looking at.⁹⁷
• Visit on Family Day: On the second Sunday of every month, Mia hosts a special “Family Day.” The museum comes alive with hands-on art-making activities, music, dancing, and special performances designed just for families.⁹⁸
• Don’t Try to See It All: With over 100,000 objects, you can’t see everything in one visit. A great strategy is to pick just one or two galleries to explore. You could visit the amazing Japanese and Chinese rooms, or see the giant paintings in the European galleries. That way, you won’t get tired out and will have a reason to come back again!

Entry Fees

• General admission to see the museum’s incredible permanent collection is always FREE for everyone! Some special, temporary exhibitions that are brought in from other museums may have a separate ticket fee, but you can explore thousands of years of art from all over the world without spending a dime.⁹⁷

Things to Keep in Mind

• Leave Big Bags Behind: To keep the art safe, large bags, backpacks, and bulky coats are not allowed in the art galleries. You can check them for free in the self-serve coat check area near the entrance.⁹⁷
• Look with Your Eyes, Not Your Hands: The art is very beautiful, and it can be tempting to touch, but it is also very old and fragile. Remind everyone in the family that it’s important to stay a safe distance away and only look with your eyes.
• Take Breaks: Exploring a museum can be tiring for little legs. There are plenty of comfortable benches in the galleries where you can sit and rest. There is also a cafe in the lobby that’s perfect for a snack break.

Nearest Restaurant

• Inside the Museum: The Agra Culture Cafe, located in Mia’s main lobby, is a great spot for a quick and healthy meal. They offer coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and salads.¹⁰⁰
• A Truly Special Meal: A short drive from the museum is Owamni, a world-famous restaurant that serves modern dishes using ingredients that are native to North America. It’s a unique and delicious dining experience that tells a story about the land.¹⁰³
• Near the Sculpture Garden: Cardamom Restaurant, located at the Walker Art Center, serves delicious food inspired by the Mediterranean and Aegean seas, with beautiful views of the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden.¹⁰⁴

Nearest Hotel

• Downtown Minneapolis Options: A short drive or bus ride away, you’ll find excellent family-friendly hotels like the Hilton Garden Inn Minneapolis Downtown¹⁰⁵, the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis¹⁰⁵, and The Marquette Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton.¹⁰⁷ Staying downtown puts you in the center of the action and close to many other city attractions.

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Your Minnesota Questions Answered! (FAQs)

Also Read: 7 Best Places to Visit in Murree in 2025

Disclaimer

The information provided about the Best Places to Visit in Minnesota is accurate as of the time of writing. However, please note that prices, facilities, and distances may vary, and it’s always best to contact the local tourism authorities or travel operators directly for the most up-to-date information.

This blog aims to provide general guidance and insights about Best Places to Visit in Minnesota, but it should not be considered an endorsement of any one place over another. We encourage you to do your own research and make informed decisions based on your individual preferences and needs.