Road Trips & Scenic Byways

Hit the Open Road

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. With 22 scenic byways stretching almost 3,000 miles across the state, all you have to do is pick one and go for a girls getaway, a fall color tour or no reason at all.

The "Palisade Head" rock cliff formation overlooking Lake Superior

North Shore Scenic Byway

A 154-mile stretch of road that skirts the Lake Superior shoreline’s dramatic limestone cliffs and forests, this scenic route has been designated an All-American Road. Highlights include panoramic lake views, a waterfall and a lighthouse.

Lake Mille Lacs Scenic Byway

Lake Mille Lacs is a treasure trove of natural beauty and indigenous culture. Take in the views, which are at their best in the fall, and learn about the Ojibwe, who have called this area home for thousands of years.

Moose standing by the road near Grand Marais

Natural Beauty on The Gunflint Trail

In the far northeastern tip of Minnesota, the Gunflint Trail Scenic Byway traverses the Superior National Forest, bringing travelers from Grand Marais to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Spot moose, pick wild blueberries and more.

Great River Road

The Mighty Mississippi starts in Minnesota, meandering its way south and running through vibrant communities along the way. The Great River Road Scenic Byway takes road trippers though the towns that line the Mississippi, including the Twin Cities.

Exterior of the Stone Mill Hotel & Suites

Bluff Country Byway

See Minnesota’s creative spirit in action along the Bluff Country Scenic Byway, an east-west route that ends at the Wisconsin border. Head to Lanesboro, a small but thriving art colony with a downtown lined with Victorian architecture.

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Road Trips & Trails for Families

From statues of legends like Paul Bunyan and Babe to colossal creatures and sculpture parks, Minnesota's roadside attractions are plentiful and larger than life.

From tree-lined avenues to clusters of homey cafes and artsy boutiques, head to these charming downtowns for tasty treats, kid-friendly shopping and classic Americana vibes.

Pack your suitcase, buckle up the kids and head to these family-friendly destinations near the Twin Cities. You'll be on the fast track to making happy road trip memories.

Indulge in delicious food and good ol'-fashioned fun when you stop at famous drive-ins along your route. Burgers, cheese curds and ice cream classics won't disappoint.

Entertain and engage the kids with creative activities and interesting exhibits at these Minnesota children's museums and they're bound to learn something along the way.

From wildlife viewing to interactive encounters with creatures of all kinds, zoos make for days full of fun and discovery. See gorillas, polar bears, bison and more.

More Road Trips & Trails

From tree-lined avenues to clusters of homey cafes and artsy boutiques, head to these charming downtowns for tasty treats, unique shopping and classic Americana vibes.

Pack your suitcase, buckle up the kids and head to these family-friendly destinations near the Twin Cities. The memories made on these road trips will stay with your kids—and you—forever.

With so much green space and such varied terrain, Minnesota is a golfer’s paradise. These golf trails showcase the state's best courses, inspiring golfers of all skill levels to hit the road.

Southern Minnesota is a must-visit for craft beer lovers. From New Ulm’s August Schell Brewery to Marshall’s Bank Brewing Company, this road trip has great beer (and beyond) on tap.

Minnesota teems with vineyards and wineries, so much so that they inspire wine lovers to hit the road to experience it all, from the Upper St. Croix Wine Trail to the Skal Crawl.