Best Weekend Trips in Minnesota 2025

Minnesota makes weekend trips easy. With shimmering lakes, thick north woods, rolling bluff country, and art-filled towns all within a few hours of the Twin Cities, you can swap city streets for starry skies or riverfront patios without using vacation days. Roads run smooth, airports connect quickly, and the state’s small towns welcome travelers with cozy inns, inventive restaurants, and outdoor playgrounds in every season.

This guide covers the best weekend trips in Minnesota—organized by travel style—so you can match your getaway to the mood you’re in. You’ll find romantic retreats on the North Shore, family-friendly escapes in Duluth and the Brainerd Lakes, bucket-list adventures in the Boundary Waters, culture-rich weekends in St. Paul and Winona, and delicious food-and-wine circuits near Waconia and Rochester. Plus, you’ll get practical planning tips, transport options, and packing essentials to make the most of 48 to 72 hours.

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Why Take Weekend Trips from Minnesota?

Short getaways reset your routine faster than you think. By Friday night, you can be sipping a local lager on a patio or paddling a quiet bay, then be back at your desk Monday feeling like you disappeared for a week. Weekend trips cost less than long vacations, and the planning stays simple. Because the distances are short, you spend more time enjoying and less time commuting.

Minnesota’s central location helps. From Minneapolis–Saint Paul, you can reach Lake Superior’s North Shore, bluff country along the Mississippi, prairie-and-pipestone landscapes in the southwest, and lake country to the north in under four hours in most cases. Highway networks are straightforward, and seasonal routes—like the North Shore Scenic Drive—turn the journey into part of the fun. For car-free travelers, Amtrak, regional flights, and intercity buses unlock several classic destinations with minimal logistics.

Whether you seek romance, family time, adrenaline, art, or exceptional eats, you’ll find a weekend that fits your budget and your calendar right here in Minnesota.

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How to Plan a Weekend Trip from Minnesota

A little structure goes a long way. With two or three days, timing and logistics shape the entire experience. Use these quick guidelines to plan smoothly and arrive relaxed.

Best seasons or times to travel

• Spring (April–May): Waterfalls roar as snowmelt rushes through North Shore state parks. Wildflowers bloom in the blufflands. Pack layers; temperatures can swing widely.
• Summer (June–August): Long daylight hours, warm lakes, festivals, and patio dining everywhere. Reserve lodging early—popular towns and cabins book out months ahead.
• Fall (September–October): Crisp air, peak fall colors on the North Shore and in the St. Croix Valley, and fewer crowds after Labor Day. Book midweek for the best rates.
• Winter (November–March): Minnesota shines in winter with world-class cross-country skiing, fat biking, ice fishing, and hygge-forward lodges. Aim for snow-rich areas like Lutsen, Ely, and the Brainerd Lakes. Monitor road conditions and pack traction aids.

Transport options

• Car: Driving gives you the most freedom. From Minneapolis–Saint Paul, Duluth is about 2.5 hours, Stillwater 30–45 minutes, Brainerd Lakes 2–2.5 hours, Winona 2–2.5 hours, Ely 4 hours, and Pipestone 3.5–4 hours.
• Amtrak: The Empire Builder stops in St. Paul (SPUD), Red Wing, Winona, and points southeast, making river towns a comfortable car-free getaway. Book early for Superliner roomettes on popular weekends.
• Bus: Jefferson Lines and Megabus run to Duluth, Rochester, and other hubs. In Duluth, local transit and rideshares cover most visitor zones.
• Flights: Short-hop flights from MSP reach Duluth and Rochester. For North Shore resorts, many travelers still prefer to drive to stop at state parks along the way.

Budget and planning tips

• Reserve early for peak seasons. Romantic cabins and waterfront rooms go first, especially on the North Shore and in Stillwater.
• Watch shoulder seasons. Late spring and mid-fall often deliver lower rates, open tables, and quiet trails.
• Bundle passes. A Minnesota State Parks annual permit pays for itself in a few weekends. If you’ll visit multiple parks in one trip, it’s a no-brainer.
• Prioritize anchor activities. Pick two must-do experiences (e.g., a guided paddle and a tasting tour). Leave the rest open for spontaneous finds.
• Eat local and early. Popular restaurants in Duluth, Grand Marais, and Stillwater take limited reservations; early dinners free up your evenings for sunsets or saunas.

Packing essentials (with smart gear adds)

• Layers: Moisture-wicking base, warm mid-layer, windproof/waterproof shell. Weather can change fast near Lake Superior.
• Footwear: Waterproof hiking shoes or boots for trails; casual shoes for town.
• Reusable water bottle and daypack.
• Navigation: Offline maps and a small power bank for your phone.
• Outdoor extras: Headlamp, compact first-aid kit, microspikes in winter, bug repellent in summer.
• Swimwear and quick-dry towel for lakes and saunas.
• Permits and passes: Minnesota State Parks pass, Boundary Waters permits if relevant.
• Consider a packable down jacket for shoulder-season comfort, a dry bag for paddle trips, and a compact binocular set for birding. Booking-wise, look for flexible hotel rates and free-cancellation cabins so you can pivot with the forecast. If you’re building a gear kit, a lightweight camp stove and enamel mugs elevate simple lakeside breakfasts.

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Best Weekend Trips in Minnesota by Category

Romantic Weekend Trips

Destination 1: North Shore (Lutsen & Grand Marais)

Few places deliver romance like Lake Superior’s North Shore. The drive alone—rocky shoreline, pine forests, and endless blue water—sets the mood. Base yourself near Lutsen or Grand Marais for a blend of scenic hikes, cozy dining, and cabin time.

• What to do:
  • Hike to waterfalls at Gooseberry Falls and Cascade River State Parks. For a quieter walk, try Oberg Mountain Loop for sweeping ridge views.
  • Ride the Lutsen Mountains Summit Express gondola for big-lake panoramas, then toast with a local craft beer.
  • Wander Grand Marais’ harbor, browse art galleries, and sample wood-fired pizzas and fresh fish. Watch sunset from Artist’s Point hand-in-hand.
  • In winter, ski Lutsen Mountains, snowshoe along Superior Hiking Trail segments, and warm up with a private sauna session.
• Travel info: From Minneapolis–Saint Paul, plan 4.5 hours to Grand Marais (2.5 hours to Duluth plus another 2). Leave Friday by noon if you can; you’ll arrive in time for harbor golden hour.
• Lodging ideas:
  • Lutsen Resort or Bluefin Bay on Lake Superior for fireplace suites and lake views.
  • Boutique cabins or Scandinavian-inspired tiny homes tucked in the pines near Tofte.
  • Booking tip: Choose lake-facing rooms and flexible cancellation. Waterfront properties sell out far in advance for fall colors and summer weekends.
• Where to eat: New Scenic Café (south of Duluth) on the drive up, and in Grand Marais try Dockside Fish Market for fresh-caught fare and Voyageur Brewing for a flight with a view.

For a special-occasion weekend, book a lakefront suite with a balcony and pre-order a welcome cheese board. If you’re flying in, consider a compact carry-on and a packable wool blanket for shoreline stargazing.

Destination 2: Stillwater & the St. Croix Valley

Stillwater sits just 30–45 minutes from the Twin Cities, yet it feels like a European river town. Historic brick buildings, riverboat cruises, and boutique B&Bs make it ideal for a quick romantic reset.

• What to do:
  • Stroll Main Street’s shops and wine bars, then cross the lift bridge for a sunset walk on the Loop Trail.
  • Book a St. Croix riverboat dinner cruise in warm months.
  • Bike the Gateway State Trail or roll along the valley’s vineyards.
  • In winter, cozy up by a fireplace at a historic inn and explore ice sculptures or snow-dusted river bluffs.
• Travel info: Easy drive on Hwy 36 from St. Paul. Park once and explore on foot.
• Lodging ideas:
  • Historic inns and boutique hotels near the river.
  • Romantic B&Bs with whirlpool suites. Look for “romance packages” that bundle sparkling wine, late checkout, and spa credits.
• Where to eat: Reserve a table at a river-view restaurant and enjoy brunch at a local bakery café the next morning.

Book a couples’ massage at a downtown spa and consider a local wine tasting pass to visit multiple St. Croix Valley wineries with discounts.

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Family-Friendly Weekend Trips

Destination 1: Duluth & Canal Park

Duluth packs endless family appeal: ore ships, lighthouses, crepes and ice cream, sandy beaches, and easy access to parks. The Lakewalk, Great Lakes Aquarium, and the Aerial Lift Bridge keep kids engaged without long drives between activities.

• What to do:
  • Watch the massive Aerial Lift Bridge raise and wave to ships entering the harbor.
  • Explore the Great Lakes Aquarium’s touch pools and otter exhibits.
  • Bike or stroll the Lakewalk, stopping for lakeside picnic time on Park Point’s beach.
  • Drive Skyline Parkway for bird’s-eye views and short hikes.
  • On rainy days, tour Glensheen Mansion for a dose of history and hidden passage fun.
• Travel info: About 2.5 hours from the Twin Cities on I-35. Park in Canal Park and use the Lakewalk to reach restaurants and attractions.
• Lodging ideas:
  • Family suites in Canal Park for walkable convenience.
  • Waterfront hotels with pools (clutch for winter or shoulder-season downtime).
  • Vacation rentals on Park Point for multi-bedroom space and kitchens.
• Where to eat: Kid-pleasing spots include pizza joints and casual burger bars; grab morning treats at a local donut shop and finish the day with ice cream on the harbor.

Book a Lakewalk-adjacent hotel with included breakfast and free parking. Consider a family city pass if bundled attraction tickets are available during peak seasons.

Destination 2: Brainerd Lakes & Nisswa

The Brainerd Lakes Area blends classic cabin life with family-friendly resorts that offer pools, beaches, marinas, and s’mores nights. Nisswa’s charming main street adds mini-golf, ice cream, and boutiques to the mix.

• What to do:
  • Swim, paddleboard, and fish from sandy resort beaches.
  • Rent bikes and cruise the Paul Bunyan State Trail between lakeside towns.
  • Visit the Northland Arboretum for easy nature trails.
  • In winter, try tubing hills, cross-country ski loops, and horse-drawn sleigh rides.
• Travel info: About 2–2.5 hours from the Twin Cities on Hwy 371. Expect slower traffic on summer Fridays; leave early or late.
• Lodging ideas:
  • Family resorts with supervised kids’ activities, boat rentals, and on-site restaurants.
  • Cabins or townhomes with kitchens help keep food costs in check.
  • Book early for July and August; shoulder seasons offer better rates and quieter beaches.
• Where to eat: Casual lakeside grills and classic supper clubs. Pick up picnic supplies at a local market and plan one special supper-club night.

Look for resort packages that include boat time, bike rentals, or breakfast. For gear, pack inflatable life vests for kids and a compact sand-and-water toy kit that stores flat.

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Adventure & Outdoor Trips

Destination 1: Boundary Waters & Ely

If you crave solitude, loons, and mirror-still lakes, head to Ely, gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). Even a weekend delivers deep nature immersion.

• What to do:
  • Book a guided day paddle or an overnight canoe trip with an outfitter. They provide permits, canoes, packs, and route planning.
  • Hike the Kekekabic or Bass Lake Trails if paddling isn’t your thing.
  • Visit the International Wolf Center or North American Bear Center to learn about local wildlife.
  • In winter, try dogsledding or snowshoe treks through quiet spruce forests.
• Travel info: About 4 hours from the Twin Cities. BWCAW permits are required for overnight trips; day use is simpler but still plan ahead in peak season.
• Lodging ideas:
  • Lakeside lodges and cabins near Ely offer saunas and starry-sky views.
  • For paddlers, outfitters can set you up with tents, meals, and ultralight gear for an easy introduction.
• Where to eat: Fuel up at Ely cafés and pick up trail-ready sandwiches. Treat yourself to a hearty dinner after a day on the water.

Reserve your BWCAW permit early and book a full-outfitting package if it’s your first time. Pack a dry bag, ultralight camp stove, and a water filtration bottle to keep your kit streamlined.

Destination 2: North Shore State Parks Sampler (Gooseberry, Tettegouche, Temperance)

For a trail-rich weekend without committing to a single basecamp, create a “park-hopping” itinerary along the North Shore.

• What to do:
  • Start at Gooseberry Falls for classic cascades and quick viewpoints.
  • Head to Tettegouche State Park for cliffside overlooks and the High Falls of the Baptism River.
  • Finish at Temperance River State Park, where churning rapids cut dramatic gorges steps from Highway 61.
  • Add Superior Hiking Trail segments for longer adventures. In winter, bring microspikes and trekking poles.
• Travel info: About 3–3.5 hours from the Twin Cities to Gooseberry. Drive 15–45 minutes between parks. A Minnesota State Parks pass saves money if you’ll visit two or more parks.
• Lodging ideas:
  • Simple lakeside cabins or inland lodges near Tettegouche and Temperance.
  • Winter weekend? Consider a cabin with a wood stove and nearby groomed ski trails.
• Where to eat: Stock a cooler with picnic fixings; you’ll want to eat at scenic overlooks. For dinner, choose from North Shore cafes and smokehouses.

A comfortable daypack, trekking poles, and moisture-wicking socks prevent hot spots on multi-park days. If booking lodging, filter for “sauna” and “lake access” to elevate your post-hike routine.

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Cultural & Historical Trips

Destination 1: Saint Paul—Museums, Markets, and Mansions

Minnesota’s capital city delivers art, architecture, and riverfront charm in an easy-to-navigate package. You can pack a lot into two days without rushing.

• What to do:
  • Tour the Minnesota State Capitol and the Cathedral of Saint Paul.
  • Visit the Science Museum of Minnesota and the Minnesota History Center for hands-on exhibits.
  • Stroll Summit Avenue to see one of the longest stretches of preserved Victorian homes in the nation.
  • Catch a show at the Ordway or a local theater, then relax at a Lowertown patio.
• Travel info: From Minneapolis, ride the Green Line light rail or drive 15–25 minutes depending on traffic. Park once downtown and walk or rideshare.
• Lodging ideas:
  • Boutique hotels in downtown or near the Cathedral for quick access to major sights.
  • Historic properties with elegant lounges and on-site dining.
• Where to eat: Lowertown’s food scene mixes chef-driven restaurants with casual markets. Don’t miss weekend brunch near Mears Park.

Bundle museum tickets when available, and look for hotel deals that include parking and breakfast—city add-ons add up fast.

Destination 2: Winona—Bluff Country Arts & River History

Winona sits in a stunning pocket of Mississippi River bluff country and punches above its weight in the arts. It’s equally great for farmers’ markets, river walks, and hikes with big payoffs.

• What to do:
  • Tour the Minnesota Marine Art Museum, famous for an exceptional collection that often surprises first-time visitors.
  • Hike up to Garvin Heights Overlook for panoramic river valley views.
  • Explore historic downtown architecture and grab coffee at a local roastery.
  • Time your visit with the Great River Shakespeare Festival or Boats & Bluegrass for a cultural bonus.
• Travel info: About 2–2.5 hours southeast of the Twin Cities via Hwy 61 along the Mississippi—a scenic drive in its own right.
• Lodging ideas:
  • Riverfront hotels for easy access to trails and the museum.
  • Boutique inns in historic buildings provide character and walkability.
• Where to eat: Farm-to-table restaurants, classic supper clubs, and seasonal food trucks. Sample local craft beer and cider.

If you’re arriving by Amtrak, pick a hotel within walking distance of downtown. Consider a small, stylish daypack for museum-to-hike transitions.

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Food & Wine Trips

Destination 1: Waconia & Carver County Wine Country

Just west of the Twin Cities, rolling farmland and lakes hide a small but lively cluster of wineries and cideries. It’s an easy, delicious weekend with minimal travel time.

• What to do:
  • Book tastings at local wineries and cideries; many have live music on weekends.
  • Stroll lakeside parks or rent a kayak or paddleboard on Lake Waconia.
  • Add a detour to nearby Chaska or Excelsior for additional dining and lakeside ambiance.
• Travel info: About 45–60 minutes from Minneapolis. Designate a driver or arrange a rideshare/tour for tastings.
• Lodging ideas:
  • Lakeside inns or boutique hotels in nearby Excelsior or Chanhassen.
  • Vacation rentals for groups who want a kitchen and patio for evening hangouts.
• Where to eat: Farm-forward bistros, bakeries, and pizzerias. Plan a picnic from a gourmet market to pair with your tastings.

Reserve tasting flights online, especially for groups. Consider a wine-tasting passport if available seasonally. A compact insulated tote keeps cheese and charcuterie cool between stops.

Destination 2: Rochester—Mayo City with a Modern Food Scene

Rochester’s dining keeps evolving far beyond its medical reputation. You’ll find chef-driven kitchens, global flavors, craft coffee, and a growing brewery scene, all knit together by bike trails and river walks.

• What to do:
  • Build a progressive dinner: appetizers at one spot, mains at another, and dessert elsewhere.
  • Explore farmers’ markets for local produce and artisan goods.
  • Bike the riverside trails or visit nearby Oxbow Park & Zollman Zoo for a nature break.
  • Check brewery calendars for food trucks and live music.
• Travel info: About 1.5 hours from the Twin Cities. Direct flights from MSP exist, but the drive is simple and often faster door-to-door.
• Lodging ideas:
  • Downtown hotels make it easy to walk between restaurants and cafes.
  • For a quieter stay, choose a boutique property or a well-reviewed short-term rental near the river.
• Where to eat: Mix elevated dining with casual ramen, tacos, and bakeries. Coffee lovers can map a café crawl to sample multiple roasters.

Book a hotel with free parking and late checkout so you can linger over brunch. A small cooler bag helps bring home market finds.

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Travel Tips for Weekend Trips from Minnesota

• Booking advice:
  • Reserve lodging 6–12 weeks ahead for summer, October, and holiday weekends. For the North Shore and Brainerd Lakes, book even earlier.
  • Set rate alerts and use flexible-cancellation filters so you can shift plans with weather.
  • Consider Sunday–Tuesday stays to score lower prices and fewer crowds.
• Safety and accessibility:
  • Check weather and road conditions, especially in winter and during spring melt.
  • Carry a paper map in cell-service gaps along the North Shore and in the Boundary Waters region.
  • Choose ADA-friendly trails and attractions if mobility is a consideration; several state parks have accessible overlooks and boardwalks.
  • Hydrate, use sun protection, and pace hikes to your group’s ability. Lake Superior’s water stays cold—use caution near cliffs and waves.
• How to maximize a 2–3 day trip:
  • Pick a theme (romance, family, adventure, culture, or food) and two “must-do” activities. Let everything else be a bonus.
  • Travel during off-peak hours. Leave early Friday or late morning Saturday; return after dinner Sunday to dodge traffic.
  • Keep driving segments under three hours where possible. If you go farther, add scenic stops that double as breaks.
  • Book one dinner reservation in advance and keep the second night flexible for a spontaneous local favorite.
  • Pack light but smart. Pre-pack a weekend kit—layers, daypack, toiletries—so you can grab and go.
  • Buy a Minnesota State Parks annual pass. It unlocks dozens of scenic stops without nickel-and-dime fees.

With these ideas and tips, your next Minnesota weekend can be exactly what you need—whether that’s a lakefront cabin with a crackling fire, a downtown boutique hotel steps from theaters and tasting rooms, or a tent under the pines with a loon lullaby. Book smart, pack well, and go make the most of those precious 48 hours.

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Frequently Asked Questions