Prince was a born-and-bred Minnesotan who spent most of his 57 years here — someone who once told Oprah he "will always live in Minneapolis" because winter "keeps the bad people out." Here is how you can take a self-guided tour of the spots that shaped Prince, from his iconic recording studio/residence to the nightclub immortalized in "Purple Rain".
When you come to Minnesota, what’s the one food you have to try?
With access to abundant farmland, quality grains, and ample pastures for grazing, it’s no wonder Minnesota has some of the country’s best meat shops and butchers. Hungry for steaks, chops, meat sticks, and jerky? Belly up to the very best in Minneapolis-St. Paul and beyond in our complete guide below.
From tree-lined avenues with late Victorian charm to clusters of homey cafes and artsy boutiques, Minnesota boasts quite a few quaint main streets. Here are 10 that could be the cover of a Hallmark card or movie.
For those who love to travel by motorcycle, there are 22 scenic byways and myriad loops in Minnesota that offer some of the region's most intoxicating open roads.
If you love to adventure in comfort, visiting Minnesota by train might be for you.
One of America’s most legendary and beautiful train rides—Amtrak’s Empire Builder—bisects the state from the scenic southeast corner to the fields and prairies of the northwest. The grand train follows the banks of the mighty Mississippi much of the way, with stops in a half-dozen Minnesota towns well worth exploring for a few days or longer.
The Mississippi River starts in Minnesota, making its headwaters at Itasca State Park a must-see.
While much of Minnesota is characterized by woods and water, the southwest corner of the state has a special appeal of its own. Picturesque farmsteads, towering wind turbines and charming small towns give visitors a distinct vibe that can't be found anywhere else.
First-time visitors may be surprised to discover all there is to see and do in this region. In no particular order, here are six unique attractions you can only find in southwest Minnesota.
Muskie-fishing opportunities abound all across the state, where 99 lakes have fishable populations of the species that can measure more than 50 inches long and weigh more than 50 pounds. The season runs through Dec. 1, and fall is one of the best times to catch a truly monster fish as the fish feed heavily in advance of winter.
Autumn offers some of Minnesota’s best bird watching, with mild temperatures, congregating flocks and vibrant forests enhancing bird hikes and road trips.
The Mississippi River Flyway is one of North America's most traveled routes during spring and fall bird migrations. Roughly 325 species of birds and about 40 percent of waterfowl use this "super highway" during migration. Minnesota is well-positioned in this major flyway, with lots of smaller flight paths and numerous Important Bird Areas (IBAs) scattered throughout the state.