Lake Superior's North Shore

Wild forests, majestic lakes and tumbling waterfalls make a beautiful backdrop for outdoor adventures, while the seaport city of Duluth is the region’s cultural anchor.

Red River Valley

Wilderness areas are a big lure here. Find some of the state’s largest lakes, most dramatic wildlife and the headwaters of the Mississippi River, but don't leave without uncovering the many cultural gems, too.

Central Lakes

Fishing, boating and waterskiing are the quintessential draws. Plus, there are more than 70 scenic golf courses, miles of mountain biking trails and charming main streets to explore.

Minneapolis-St. Paul Metro

This incredibly diverse metro area is known for theater, arts and culture, shopping and events. Foodies and outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty to love here.

Bluff Country

Long ago, glacial meltwater carved the deep valleys and limestone bluffs of Bluff Country, leaving a beautiful place in Minnesota’s southeastern corner to experience gentle rivers and streams flowing between high wooded bluffs. From gentle canoeing and scenic bikes to popular hikes and historic sites, Bluff Country’s beauty is sure to leave you breathless.

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

Accessible primarily by canoe, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in northeast Minnesota is one of America's most beautiful and remote places. Its vast wilderness extends 150 miles along the U.S.-Canada border, covering approximately 1,098,000 acres with over 1,100 lakes and 1,200 miles of canoe routes, attracting more than 150,000 visitors annually. To truly understand this incredible destination, you have to come experience it for yourself.

Lake Superior

Superior, the greatest of the Great Lakes, is best explored on the water itself. Sailing on majestic Lake Superior really gives you a sense of this big lake, and provides fantastic views of the rocky, forested north shore. The Ojibwe called the lake gichi-gami , meaning "great sea." Whether you choose to explore by boat or via the stunning cities and trails along the shore, the serene beauty is sure to stay with you long after you leave. 

Mississippi River & the Headwaters

The second-longest river in the U.S. and the fourth longest in the world, the Mississippi River gets its start at Lake Itasca and flows through nine other states, all the way to the Gulf of Mexico. For its first 650 miles, it meanders through Minnesota's stately pine forests, iron ranges and a deep valley, as well as through the heart of the Twin Cities.

Road Trips & Scenic Byways

Ralph Waldo Emerson wasn't talking about Minnesota's scenic byways when he said, "It's not the destination, it's the journey," but he might as well have been. With so many breathtaking views and unique roadside attractions along the way, road trips on scenic byways will reward you with miles of memorable experiences.