• Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. Minnesota's North Shore Scenic Drive ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Minnesota's North Shore Scenic Drive
© Courtesy of khlongwangchao - Fotolia.com

2. Minneapolis Institute of Art ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Museums & Culture
Minneapolis Institute of Art
© Minneapolis Institute of Art

3. Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, St. Paul

Category: Kids & Family
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, St. Paul
© Courtesy of Marcus - Fotolia.com

4. Quarry Hill Nature Center

Category: Activities
Quarry Hill Nature Center
© Courtesy of EBFoto - Fotolia.com

5. Minnesota Marine Art Museum

Category: Museums & Culture
Minnesota Marine Art Museum
© Minnesota Marine Art Museum

6. Minnehaha Park, Minnesota

Category: Activities
Minnehaha Park, Minnesota
© AMB-MD Photography/stock.adobe.com

7. Leif Erickson Park & Rose Garden

Category: Activities
Leif Erickson Park & Rose Garden
© Courtesy of tesoro photo - Fotolia.com

8. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

Category: Activities
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
© Courtesy of Austin - Fotolia.com

9. National Eagle Center

Category: Attractions
National Eagle Center
© Courtesy of jkral - Fotolia.com

10. 7 Vines Vineyard

Category: Food & Drink
7 Vines Vineyard
© 7 Vines Vineyard

11. Mill City Museum

Category: Museums & Culture
Mill City Museum
© Courtesy of burningmine - Fotolia.com

12. Science Museum of Minnesota

Category: Kids & Family
Science Museum of Minnesota
© Science Museum of Minnesota

13. North American Bear Center

Category: Attractions
North American Bear Center
© Courtesy of Vladimir Wrangel - Fotolia.com

14. Minneapolis Sculpture Garden

Category: Activities
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
© Courtesy of Earl Robbins - Fotolia.com

15. Lake Superior Marine Museum

Category: Activities
Lake Superior Marine Museum
© Courtesy of johnsroad7 - Fotolia.com

16. Minnesota History Center

Category: Attractions
Minnesota History Center
© Minnesota History Center

17. RockFilter Distillery, Minnesota

Category: Food & Drink
RockFilter Distillery, Minnesota
© RockFilter Distillery

18. Split Rock Lighthouse

Category: Activities
Split Rock Lighthouse
© CK/stock.adobe.com

19. James J Hill House

James J Hill House
© James J Hill House

20. Glensheen, The Historic Congdon Estate

Category: Attractions
Glensheen, The Historic Congdon Estate
© Glensheen, The Historic Congdon Estate

21. Xcel Energy Center

Category: Attractions
Xcel Energy Center
© Courtesy of Federico Rostagno - Fotolia.com

22. The Frederick R Weisman Art Museum

Category: Museums & Culture
The Frederick R Weisman Art Museum
© The Frederick R Weisman Art Museum

23. International Wolf Center

Category: Attractions
International Wolf Center
© Courtesy of alkerk - Fotolia.com

24. Great Lakes Aquarium

Category: Activities
Great Lakes Aquarium
© Courtesy of Vladimir Wrangel - Fotolia.com

25. Guthrie Theater

Category: Entertainment
Guthrie Theater
© Courtesy of montywheels - Fotolia.com

Summary and Frequenly Asked Questions:

  • Question: What natural features make Minnesota a great destination for nature lovers?
    Answer: Minnesota is a land of incomparable wilderness, lakes, and parks, making it perfect for adventurous nature lovers.
  • Question: What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in Minnesota?
    Answer: Visitors can enjoy paddling waterways, hiking scenic trails, and snowshoeing off the beaten path.
  • Question: What are the "Twin Cities," and why are they significant?
    Answer: The "Twin Cities" of Minneapolis and Saint Paul make up a thriving economic and cultural center with many interesting places to explore.
  • Question: What is notable about Winona in southeast Minnesota?
    Answer: Winona features beautiful parks and historic sites.
  • Question: What makes Duluth unique?
    Answer: Duluth is a crossroads with elements of big city industry as well as unique green space.

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