Minnesota is known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” but we actually boast 11,842. They're boatloads of fun no matter what time of year it is, too, whether you're into water skiing, fishing, and tubing in the summer or ice fishing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing in the winter.
Presenting the ultimate guide to living the lake life in Minnesota.
Whether you're into art or animals, food or ice fishing, or all the annual festivals that keep our calendar kicking, there's no shortage of things to do in Minnesota throughout the year. Here are 60 events — five musts per month — we look forward to every year.
Think back to your most cherished childhood memories and you’ll find most of them share a common thread: family. From peaceful mornings on the lake, sitting side by side with hands wrapped around a fishing pole, to summer evenings spent listening to stories and roasting marshmallows with grandma and grandpa—these are the moments your kids will remember most from your next Minnesota vacation.
Minnesota farmers grow some of the best pumpkins in the country, from awe-inspiring giant pumpkins to artisanal heirlooms, gourds and everything in between. Whether you prefer pumpkin pies, corn mazes or hay rides, here’s one thing we can all agree on: Your family will love exploring these Minnesota pumpkin patches.
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If there’s one guiding principle about vacation time, it’s this: The worse your cell phone service, the better your mood. As your signal fades into nothing more than a distant memory, you’re free to bask in the simple pleasures found in your destinations of choice — five of Minnesota’s smallest towns, in this case.
There are many ways to experience dog sledding during the off season in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Whether you are seeking a simple ride of a few hours or less, a multi-day trip complete with camping or a stay in a lodge at the edge of the wilderness, you can enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience without going to Alaska.
By getting on the trail and squeezing the throttle, ATV riders can leave civilization behind and witness wild places—not to mention the birds, deer and other creatures that call these areas home.
Going on vacation doesn't have to mean spending a lot of money. Plenty of attractions and activities are completely free to visitors in Minnesota. Here are 20 spread throughout the state, from gardens and trails to museums and monuments.
Between all of its award-winning parks, trails and urban lakes, outdoor adventures are an essential part of experiencing all Minneapolis-St. Paul has to offer.