Top 19 Stunning Destinations in Minnesota You Must See

Minnesota, known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” “North Star State,” “The Gopher State,” and “The State of Hockey,” presents an array of stunning landscapes and remarkable destinations! Explore these photographs and appreciate the state’s natural beauty.

1. Split Rock Lighthouse

Split Rock Lighthouse is often regarded as one of the most scenic lighthouses in the United States, and its charm is evident. Over a century old, this historic structure, situated southwest of Silver Bay, is a National Historic Landmark. After its decommissioning in 1969, it became a central attraction of Split Rock Lighthouse State Park. The lighthouse has been featured on stamps and in the 2013 film adaptation of The Great Gatsby. Guided tours of this significant site are available.

2. Lake Itasca

Lake Itasca, though modest in size, serves as the origin of the Mississippi River, making it a critical natural site in Minnesota. Located in Clearwater County, it is home to the University of Minnesota’s Itasca Biological Station and Laboratories. The lake is a favorite among boaters and is stocked with game fish. Additionally, visitors can discover numerous activities and sights throughout Itasca State Park, the oldest park in Minnesota.

3. Minnehaha Falls

Minnehaha Falls stands out as one of the most accessible waterfalls in Minnesota, conveniently located within Minnehaha Park in Minneapolis. The falls are situated near Minnehaha Creek, close to its junction with the Mississippi River, near Fort Snelling. Annually, nearly one million visitors come to admire this natural wonder, which is also one of the state’s most photographed sites. With a height of over 50 feet, it inspired Longfellow’s “Song of Hiawatha.”

4. Minneapolis

The largest city in Minnesota, Minneapolis is a quintessential destination for first-time visitors to the state. The city is known for its vibrant theater scene, showcasing a diverse array of performances. Moreover, Minneapolis boasts a rich cultural heritage, with music icons such as Prince, Hüsker Dü, and The Replacements originating from the area.

Attractions worth visiting include the Minneapolis Institute of Art, Minnehaha Park, Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, and the Basilica of St. Mary. The Minneapolis Skyway System is also an invaluable resource, particularly for navigating the city during inclement weather. Additionally, in 2015, Minneapolis-Saint Paul was recognized as having the Best Local Food Scene by USA Today.

5. Minnehaha Falls Regional Park

Minnehaha Falls Regional Park, listed in the National Register of Historic Places, ranks among Minnesota’s most scenic areas. The park encompasses Minnehaha Falls, as well as the John H. Stevens House and the Princess Depot. Walking along Minnehaha Creek to the Mississippi River is one of the park’s most popular activities. Furthermore, Minnehaha Falls Regional Park is one of the first state parks established in the United States.

6. St. Paul’s Cathedral

The Cathedral of Saint Paul, also known as the National Shrine of the Apostle Paul, is one of the most striking structures in the state. The cathedral’s distinctive copper dome renders it one of the most recognizable cathedrals across the United States.

This edifice, a premier example of Beaux-Arts architecture, is reminiscent of Europe’s grand cathedrals. Typically open every day of the week, the cathedral is listed as a historic landmark on the National Register of Historic Buildings.

7. Como Park Zoo & Conservatory

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is one of the most frequented attractions in St. Paul, drawing nearly two million visitors annually. This free park, located at Lake Como, features a zoo, a conservatory, and an amusement park, in addition to a golf course and pool. The Marjorie McNeely Conservatory showcases a Japanese Garden, while the zoo’s main highlight includes its twin polar bear brothers. Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is an ideal destination for families.

8. Stone Arch Bridge, Minneapolis

The Stone Arch Bridge in Minneapolis is unique as it is the only one of its kind spanning the Mississippi River. Constructed from native granite and limestone, the bridge features 23 arches, providing a spectacular opportunity for photography. Recognized as a National Civil Engineering Landmark, the adjacent Father Hennepin Bluff Park is an excellent vantage point for viewing the bridge. Additionally, the bridge offers exceptional views of the stunning St. Anthony Falls.

9. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is the most visited wilderness area in the United States and stands out as one of the most picturesque locations in Minnesota. Popular activities include fishing and canoeing across the numerous lakes, with a multitude of hiking trails and over 2,000 designated campsites available. The park, which exceeds one million acres, is home to black bears, bobcats, deer, wolves, and Canada lynx. The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, also known as BWCAW, offers an unparalleled wilderness experience in Minnesota.

10. Gooseberry Falls State Park

Located along the North Shore of Lake Superior, Gooseberry Falls State Park is a splendid location to visit in Minnesota. The park is picturesque throughout the year, featuring an excellent cross-country ski trail system for winter activities, vibrant fall colors, and a myriad of hiking trails during summer. Spring, however, reveals the park at its most breathtaking, as the waterfalls achieve their fullest and most powerful state. The park is conveniently situated near Duluth with easy access to Highway 61.

11. Mississippi River

The Mississippi River can be considered one of America’s most remarkable natural wonders, with its most striking segments found within Minnesota. As the river winds through the state, it traverses through woodlands, valleys, and prairies, with selected areas designated as a Wild and Scenic River.

The Mississippi River and the Great River Road commence their journey in northern Minnesota, where Lake Itasca, the river’s source, has become a popular tourist destination. St. Paul’s Mississippi River Visitor Center serves as an informative site to explore the river’s history.

12. Falls at Gooseberry Falls State Park

The falls at Gooseberry Falls State Park are among the most stunning in Minnesota, if not the entire United States. The Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls of the Gooseberry River cascade through a dramatic gorge, presenting an astonishing sight that is not to be missed. Civilian Conservation Corps log and stone structures enhance the park’s distinctive atmosphere, while five waterfalls are featured within the grounds of Gooseberry Falls State Park.

13. Lake Superior

Lake Superior is immense; remarkably, it could contain all the other Great Lakes along with three additional lakes the size of Lake Erie. Describing Lake Superior as the largest of the Great Lakes barely captures its grandeur—it must be experienced. Both tourists and adventurers flock to see its splendor.

The 256-mile Superior Hiking Trail is particularly popular, as well as biking along the Gitchi Gami paved trail. Fishing at Lake Superior is alluring, with plenty of options like lake trout, various salmon species, northern pike, perch, and brook trout.

14. Itasca State Park

As the oldest state park in Minnesota, Itasca State Park undoubtedly ranks among the finest in the state. The historic Douglas Lodge and available cabins provide opportunities for a unique overnight experience, with the 2,000-acre Wilderness Sanctuary, one of Minnesota’s seven National Natural Landmarks, being a highlight among the attractions within the park.

Itasca State Park allows visitors to walk across the Mississippi River at the very beginning of its extensive journey across America—an unforgettable and unmatched experience.

15. The Temperance River

Temperance River State Park showcases stunning views, explaining why it remains a favored destination for many locals each year. This river empties into Lake Superior, flowing from Brule Lake in Cook County. Nestled within the Superior National Forest, the Temperance River is undoubtedly one of Minnesota’s most beautiful sites to explore. The park offers two camping grounds, each located on opposite sides of the river.

16. The Gooseberry River

The Gooseberry River is recognized as the gateway to Lake Superior’s North Shore, yet it is a destination deserving of its own recognition. Renowned primarily for its three magnificent waterfalls, the river has developed into a thriving tourist locale. Its flow is most robust during spring due to the melting snow, while it tends to nearly dry up in the peak of summer. The river is home to brook, brown, and rainbow trout, among other fish species.

17. Minnesota 210

Minnesota 210 likely represents the primary avenue through which visitors will experience the state’s offerings. This highway, extending from west-central to northeastern Minnesota, encompasses locations such as Duluth, Fergus Falls, and Brainerd. Minnesota State Highway 210 runs closely to Glendalough State Park, which proclaims itself as a true escape from urban life. Crystal clear Annie Battle Lake, figured as the park’s highlight, merits a visit during travels along Minnesota State Highway 210.

18. Silver Bay

Silver Bay is renowned as one of the most scenic locations in Minnesota, with Shovel Point offering truly spectacular views. North Shore Scenic Cruises are among the popular activities for tourists, while snowshoeing in George Crosby Manitou State Park should also feature on one’s itinerary during a visit.

The Baptism River offers perhaps the most breathtaking scenery in Silver Bay, although hiking on the stunning Tettegouche Trail certainly competes for that title.

19. Port Of Duluth

Duluth, the second-largest city on Lake Superior’s shores, is highly recommended for first-time visitors to Minnesota. This seaport city is home to America’s only all-freshwater aquarium, alongside the world’s longest freshwater baymouth bar. The Aerial Lift Bridge captures attention as an intriguing landmark in Duluth, acting as an excellent starting point for Minnesota’s North Shore Scenic Drive. The city also features popular attractions such as the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center, Glensheen, The Historic Congdon Estate, and Leif Erickson Park & Rose Garden.