Minneapolis sits at the center of countless getaways that are just a short drive away.
Day trips from Minneapolis open up river valleys, small towns, state parks, and attractions across Minnesota and Wisconsin.
I’ve find these routes myself and know how easy it is to leave in the morning and return by dinner. This guide covers 13 trips that solve the where should we go question.
You’ll find scenic drives, outdoor activities, family stops, and food focused towns. Each option works for different interests and seasons. No overnight planning needed.
Why Take Day Trips from Minneapolis
Minneapolis offers easy access to varied landscapes without long drives. You can reach river bluffs, lakes, and forests in under two hours.
The city’s location means quick trips to charming towns in both Minnesota and Wisconsin. These places offer local shops, riverside walks, and good food.
State parks sit close enough for morning hikes with time to spare. You can find trails, swim in clear lakes, or climb bluffs for views.
River routes like the Mississippi and St. Croix provide scenic drives with stopping points. Small towns along these waterways serve fresh meals and local specialties.
Day trips work for any schedule. You skip hotel bookings but still get a full day of finding.
13 Day Trips from Minneapolis
Day trips within driving distance of Minneapolis, from charming small towns and natural wonders to cultural attractions and outdoor adventures.
1. Taylors Falls
Visit river cliffs and small town charm along the St. Croix River with hiking, paddling, and scenic views all day.
The St. Croix River cuts through tall rock formations at Interstate State Park. Walking trails take you along the clifftops.
Spring and fall bring the best colors.Downtown Taylors Falls has antique shops and cafes. Canoe rentals are available near the park.
2. Stillwater
Visit a historic river town with walkable streets, boat cruises, local restaurants, and shops along the St. Croix waterfront.
Stillwater’s downtown stretches along the river with brick buildings from the 1800s. Main Street holds antique stores, bookshops, and gift shops.
River cruises leave from the downtown marina. Local restaurants focus on fresh ingredients and seasonal menus.
3. Red Wing
See Mississippi River bluffs, find downtown shops, and enjoy outdoor activities in this river town known for its views. Barn Bluff towers over downtown and offers hiking trails to the summit.
The climb takes 30 minutes and rewards you with views across the river valley. Downtown Red Wing features local shops selling pottery, art, and handmade goods.
4. Winona
Climb river bluffs for panoramic views, hike scenic trails, and find a college town on the Mississippi River. Sugar Loaf Bluff rises 500 feet above Winona.
A steep trail leads to the top with views of the river. The hike takes 20 minutes. Downtown Winona has coffee shops and breweries near the water. The drive from Minneapolis takes two hours.
5. Wazee Lake Recreation Area
Swim in clear water, relax on a sandy beach, and enjoy trails and picnic spots at this former mine turned lake. Wazee Lake fills an old iron mine pit with crystal clear water.
The swimming beach has sand for families. Hiking trails circle the lake. Fishing is allowed from shore. The drive from Minneapolis takes about 90 minutes into Wisconsin.
6. Northfield
Walk a charming downtown, visit the Cannon River, and visit nearby pizza farms for fresh food and open spaces. Northfield’s downtown has local shops and restaurants.
The Cannon River flows through town with walking paths. Pizza farms outside town serve wood fired pizza in open fields during summer and fall. The drive from Minneapolis takes 45 minutes.
7. Osceola, Wisconsin
Ride a scenic train through river valleys, see waterfalls, and visit a small Wisconsin town near the St. Croix River. The Osceola & St. Croix Valley Railway runs vintage trains through the countryside.
Rides last 45 to 90 minutes. Cascade Falls drops 25 feet in downtown Osceola. A short path leads to viewing platforms. The drive from Minneapolis takes about 75 minutes.
8. Lake Pepin
Drive the Great River Road, stop in lakeside towns, and enjoy wide water views along this natural widening of the Mississippi. Lake Pepin stretches 22 miles where the Mississippi River widens naturally.
Highway 61 follows the shore with constant water views. Lake City has a marina and waterfront park. The drive from Minneapolis takes 90 minutes.
9. Frontenac State Park
Hike blufftop trails and see Mississippi River overlooks. Frontenac State Park has trails climbing to ridge tops with views across Lake Pepin.
Spring brings wildflowers. Fall colors peak in early October. Bird watching is popular with migrating species. The park stays quiet.
Plan two to three hours for hiking. The drive takes about 90 minutes from Minneapolis.
10. Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store
Stop at a massive candy warehouse filled with treats and sodas.This converted barn holds thousands of candy varieties and bulk sweets.
Go with a budget since it’s easy to overspend. The store gets busy on weekends. Located in Jordan, it operates from May through October, about 40 minutes from Minneapolis.
11. Fossil & Prairie Park Preserve
Hunt for fossils and learn about ancient sea life at this park.This preserve lets visitors search for real fossils. You dig through shale layers to find ancient marine creatures.
The park provides tools. Bring containers for your finds so you can keep what you discover. Wear old clothes since shale creates dust.
The park is free and sits near Rockford, about 45 minutes from Minneapolis.
12. Family Friendly Wineries Near Minneapolis
Visit Minnesota wineries with outdoor spaces and kid friendly grounds. Winehaven Winery has vineyard views. Parley Lake Winery offers barn tastings with grounds to find.
Saint Croix Vineyards near Stillwater has outdoor space and non alcoholic options. Check hours before visiting. Most sit 30 to 60 minutes from Minneapolis.
13. Ely
Experience northern Minnesota wilderness and outdoor activities in this gateway town. Ely sits at the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
The International Wolf Center features live wolf displays. Dorothy Molter Museum honors the Root Beer Lady. Summer offers water activities.
Fall brings peak colors. Winter has dog sledding and northern lights. The drive takes three and a half hours from Minneapolis.
Tips for Planning Day Trips from Minneapolis
Plan ahead with drive times, seasonal considerations, packing needs, and timing strategies for better day trip experiences.
- Check drive times before choosing a destination. Most trips take 45 to 120 minutes one way. Summer weekends bring crowds, so visit on weekdays or arrive early.
- Spring offers wildflowers and waterfalls at their peak. Fall brings color and comfortable temperatures. Winter works for some activities but limits others.
- Pack water, snacks, and sunscreen for outdoor trips. Bring layers since weather changes quickly. Keep a cooler in the car for farm stand purchases.
- Download offline maps before leaving since rural areas have spotty cell service. Fill your gas tank in the Cities rather than waiting for small-town stations.
- Call ahead to verify hours for seasonal attractions. Consider combining nearby destinations like Red Wing and Lake Pepin or Stillwater and Taylors Falls into one trip.
Conclusion
I’ve taken many of these day trips from Minneapolis and always return feeling refreshed. You don’t need complicated plans or overnight bags to see beautiful places.
Pick a direction, load the car, and go. Each trip offers something different whether you want hiking, food, small towns, or river views.
Start with the closest options and work your way out. Which trip will you try first? Share your experiences in the comments below, and let me know which spots you loved most.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from Minneapolis for families?
Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store, Wazee Lake, and Fossil & Prairie Park Preserve offer hands-on activities and outdoor space for kids to find.
How long does it take to drive to Stillwater from Minneapolis?
About 45 minutes via Highway 36 or I-94. Leave early mornings to avoid traffic during rush hours and summer weekends.
Can you visit Lake Pepin in winter?
Yes. Ice fishing becomes popular when the lake freezes, and the scenic drive stays open year round.
Which day trip offers the best hiking near Minneapolis?
Taylors Falls and Frontenac State Park offer river bluff views. Sugar Loaf Bluff in Winona provides a challenging climb with rewarding views.
Are there wineries near Minneapolis that welcome kids?
Winehaven, Parley Lake, and Saint Croix Vineyards have family-friendly outdoor spaces. Call ahead to confirm current policies.