10 Best Day Trips from Minneapolis!
Living in or visiting Minneapolis gives you easy access to many natural, cultural, and historic places. Day trips are perfect because they let you explore new places without needing to plan a long vacation. From waterfalls and historic towns to scenic drives and quiet nature preserves, there are many options within a short drive. In this guide, we’ll take you through 10 best day trips from Minneapolis, explain each spot in detail, so you can plan your own trips with ease.
1. Saint Paul
Start your day trip from Minneapolis with a short drive of less than 30 minutes to reach Saint Paul. Begin at the Minnesota State Capitol, where guided tours share stories about the state’s history and government. Families and curious travelers will enjoy the Science Museum of Minnesota, which has hands‑on exhibits and play areas, while the Minnesota Children’s Museum is a fun stop with creative play areas and interactive spaces. When it’s time for lunch, downtown Saint Paul and Grand Avenue both have plenty of local restaurants and cafes where you can relax and enjoy a meal before heading back.
2. St. Cloud
From Minneapolis, a day trip to St. Cloud takes about an hour drive, so it’s easy to go and return in the same day. Begin your morning with fresh pastries from local favorites like Cold Spring Bakery or Flour & Flower, both known for their tasty baked goods. After breakfast, head to Quarry Park and Nature Preserve, where you can hike the trails, swim in clear quarry waters, or simply enjoy the peaceful views of old granite sites surrounded by nature. After lunch, spend time at Munsinger and Clemens Gardens, which are free to enter and filled with colorful flowers and fountains that make for a relaxing end to your trip.
3. Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge
Taking a day trip to Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge is roughly an hour drive from Minneapolis, and it covers more than 30,000 acres of protected land. The area includes oak savanna, wetlands, prairies, and forests, giving visitors many different landscapes to explore. One of the best ways to see the refuge is by driving the Prairie’s Edge Wildlife Drive, which is open in spring, summer, and fall and lets you spot animals and enjoy wide views without leaving your car. The Oak Savanna Learning Center hosts free programs and activities, helping visitors learn more about the plants, animals, and history of the land.
4. Rochester
Planning a day trip to Rochester takes nearly 1.5 hours drive from Minneapolis, making it a nice way to explore a smaller city that blends nature with history. Begin your visit at the Mayo Clinic campus, where you can walk through the downtown area and see historic spots like the Plummer Building. Next, stop at the Rochester Art Center, which has changing exhibits and for outdoor time, head to Silver Lake Park, where you can stroll along the paths or rent a paddleboat. Families enjoy the small shops and local restaurants in downtown Rochester, which make a good place to relax and have lunch before driving back.
5. Eau Claire, WI
From Minneapolis, a day trip to Eau Claire in Wisconsin takes about 1.5 hours drive heading east on I-94. Begin your visit downtown, where you can walk along the Eau Claire River and stop at local shops or coffee spots. The Pablo Center at the Confluence often hosts art shows and live music, making it a lively place to explore. Just nearby, Phoenix Park is a peaceful spot with river trails and after lunch, spend time on the Chippewa River State Trail, which is good for walking or biking nearby the water. If you enjoy art, check out Sculpture Tour Eau Claire, an outdoor display of public art spread across downtown streets.
6. Duluth
Start a day trip to Duluth takes about 2.5 hours by car from Minneapolis, and it gives you a full day of exploring Lake Superior and the city’s highlights. Start your morning at Canal Park, where you can walk along the lakefront and see ships pass under the Aerial Lift Bridge. Families often enjoy the Great Lakes Aquarium, while others head to Enger Tower for a view of the harbor and city. For lunch, Canal Park has many local restaurants and shops with easy options. In the afternoon, drive north on Highway 61 to see the North Shore, stopping at places like Split Rock Lighthouse or Gooseberry Falls State Park.
7. St. Croix National Scenic Riverway
Taking a day trip to the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway is a relaxing way to spend time outdoors from Minneapolis, with just about 1.5 hours of driving to reach the visitor center in Saint Croix Falls, WI. This protected area follows the St. Croix and Namekagon Rivers, offering clean water, forest views, and quiet places for hiking, kayaking, or simply sitting near the river. Picnic spots and restrooms are available, and staff at the visitor center who share maps and answer questions. After exploring the park, you can stop in nearby towns like Stillwater or Taylors_Falls for a walk, snacks, or a meal before heading back.
8. Rum River State Forest
The Rum River State Forest is just a short one hour drive from Minneapolis, making it easy to enjoy nature and return the same day. The forest covers more than 4,000 acres with oak, pine, wetlands, and prairie, giving visitors different landscapes to explore. Trails here are simple to walk, bike, or ride on horseback, and the Rum River itself is popular for canoeing and fishing. The forest connects to the Rum River State Water Trail, which flows from Mille Lacs Lake down to the Mississippi River. Families can also join programs at the Oak Savanna Learning Center, where free events teach about plants and animals.
9. Sioux Falls, SD
From Minneapolis, a day trip to Sioux Falls in South Dakota takes about 4 hours drive, making it a longer drive but still possible to enjoy in one day. The highlight of the city is Falls Park, where the Big Sioux River flows over natural rock formations, creating waterfalls that are easy to see from walking paths and viewing platforms. Downtown Sioux Falls is close by, with small shops and local restaurants where you can stop for lunch. Art lovers will enjoy the SculptureWalk, an outdoor display spread across downtown, while families often visit the Great Plains Zoo, which has animals from around the world and simple exhibits for kids.
10. Des Moines, IA
Start a day trip early from Minneapolis and drive about 3.5 hours to reach Des Moines in Iowa. Start your visit at the Iowa State Capitol, where free tours give you a look at the gold dome and the history of the state. Nearby, the Pappajohn Sculpture Park is a good stop with large outdoor art pieces spread across downtown. Families enjoy the Science Center of Iowa, which has hands‑on exhibits and a planetarium, while the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden offers indoor and outdoor colorful plants. In the afternoon, lunch options are easy to find in the East Village or downtown, with many local restaurants and cafes.
FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What are the most popular day trips from Minneapolis?
Many travelers enjoy short drives from Minneapolis to nearby towns and parks. Stillwater is a favorite with its riverfront and historic streets. Duluth offers Lake Superior views and outdoor trails. Families often choose St. Cloud for Quarry Park and gardens. Nature lovers head to Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge or the St. Croix Riverway for peaceful hikes and water activities. Each of these places is close enough for a single day but feels like a refreshing getaway.
2. Are there any family‑friendly day trips from Minneapolis?
Yes, many day trips work well for families with kids. Lake Minnetonka has beaches and boat rides. Rochester offers Silver Lake Park with paddleboats and geese. Sioux Falls has Falls Park and the Great Plains Zoo. Families also enjoy Eau Claire for river trails and outdoor art. These trips mix play areas, simple walks, and local food, making them easy for children and parents alike.
3. What’s the cheapest way to travel for a day trip from Minneapolis?
The most budget‑friendly way is often by carpooling with friends or family, since fuel costs can be shared. Public transport works for closer trips, like buses or trains to Saint Paul or nearby towns. Packing your own snacks and water helps save money during the trip. Choosing free attractions like Munsinger and Clemens Gardens or Phoenix Park also keeps costs low. Planning ahead and checking parking options can make the trip cheaper and less stressful.
4. Which day trips from Minneapolis are best for nature lovers?
Nature lovers have many choices near Minneapolis. Minnehaha Falls offers trails and a waterfall right in the city. Taylors Falls has cliffs and river views. Rum River State Forest is perfect for hiking, camping, and birdwatching. The St. Croix Riverway gives peaceful spots for kayaking and picnics. These places let visitors enjoy fresh air, quiet trails, and wide views without traveling too far.
5. Are there guided tours available for day trips from Minneapolis?
Yes, guided tours are offered at several destinations. The Minnesota State Capitol in Saint Paul has free tours about history and government. The Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden often hosts nature walks with guides. In Duluth, boat tours on Lake Superior are popular. Some wildlife centers like the Oak Savanna Learning Center at Sherburne Refuge also run free programs. Guided tours make trips easier and more informative, especially for first‑time visitors.
6. What should I pack for a day trip from Minneapolis?
Packing depends on where you go, but a few basics are always useful. Comfortable shoes are important for walking or hiking. A water bottle and snacks help during outdoor trips. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are good for sunny days, while a light jacket is handy in cooler weather. If visiting parks, bring a picnic blanket or small backpack. For city trips, carrying a phone charger or camera ensures you capture memories without running out of power.
