Things to do & places to visit in Minnesota, United States

The Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul have the famous Mall of America and Walker Art Institute. Bluff Country to the south has water sports and cross country skiing. The Prairielands abound with lake recreations.

Minnesota #31 destination in United States 2023. The average rating score is 4.52 based on 127.7k traveler reviews, of 2.980 attractions. Timezone: America/Chicago, current date and time: Friday, May 03, 2024, 4:18.

Top things to do (36)

Top destinations in Minnesota 100

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Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Minneapolis Institute of Art (2.387 reviews)
- A Twin City's Treasure
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Art Museums

Travel through 4,000 years of world history as you view more than 80,000 works of sculpture, photography, paintings, drawings and prints. See more..
5.0 The Escape Game Minneapolis (2.117 reviews)
- Absolutely amazing experience
Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games • Game & Entertainment Centers

The Escape Game is a live 60-minute adventure. You and your team will select a challenge and will have one hour to complete your mission and escape. We offer several unique experiences, all happening in a completely immersive environment. You may be in prison planning an escape, on Mars trying to repair a spaceship or in a museum stealing back a piece of art. See more..
5.0 Minnesota's North Shore Scenic Drive (2.004 reviews)
- Lake Superior Scenery
Scenic Drives

For anyone who enjoys the rugged scenery of Lake Superior, The North Shore Scenic Drive is well worth the time. We took two days (up to Grand Portage and back to Duluth) and explored The North Shore. We stayed overnight in Grand Marais (be sure and make a reservation- despite the far northern location it’s a very busy and popular place in September). There are many beautiful parks, points of interest, overlooks and hikes, much more than we could do in just a couple days, we had to pick and choose what we most wanted to see and do in the time we had. Be prepared for crowds at certain times in certain popular areas (Split Rock Lighthouse, Gooseberry Falls). We were able to avoid the crowds by returning at other times (earlier or later in the day). We plan to return again to see the things we simply didn’t have time for on our first trip. See more..
5.0 Kerfoot Canopy Tour (1.612 reviews)
- Experience of a Lifetime!
Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Adrenaline & Extreme Tours • Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks • Nature & Wildlife Tours

Easily one of the best times of our lives was doing the canopy tour at Kerfoot Canopy Tour! The course is absolutely beautiful and eases its guests into through three different sections. The first third was heavily wooded and gradually built us up for what was to come. The middle third takes your breath away as we moved above the canopy and enjoyed numerous long lines up to 1200'. The final third was simply exhilarating as we enjoyed the fastest lines on the property. The entire cast was outstanding making you feel more like a family member than a guest! See more..
5.0 Escape MSP (1.299 reviews)
- Escape MSP Golden Valley
Friday: 8:45 AM - 11:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Escape Games

Clocks, locks, and secret passages. You and your team are locked in a room with 2 objectives, find hidden pieces of evidence and escape the room within 60 minutes before your cover is blown! To win you must use your wits, teamwork, and a little bit of luck! See more..
5.0 Lakewalk (920 reviews)
- Lake walk is an engineer marvel
Historic Walking Areas

Running along the edge of Lake Superior is a winding and hilly path, a favorite place for skating, biking, jogging and walking. See more..
5.0 North American Bear Center (720 reviews)
- Enjoyable Visit at the Bear Center
Temporarily closed - Closed until further notice Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums • Science Museums • Nature & Wildlife Areas

The North American Bear Center is the only educational facility of its kind - it helps people learn from the bears themselves about bear behavior, ecology, and their relations with humans. There is a huge need for accurate information about bears worldwide and the mission of the non-profit North American Bear Center is to advance the long-term survival of bears worldwide by replacing misconceptions with scientific facts about bears. See more..
5.0 Escapology (694 reviews)
- Amazing and imersive
Friday: 3:00 PM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games

Burnsville's premium real life escape game experience! Located at the Burnsville Center Mall, players will be challenged in this attraction by working together to find clues, solve puzzles, and pick locks that will free them from their always private game See more..
5.0 Zero Hour Escape Rooms (678 reviews)
- Great Family Activity
Friday: 10:00 AM - 10:45 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games

You are trapped in a room. But it’s not an ordinary room, it’s a real life adventure game designed for small groups of friends, families, co-workers or strangers. You look around and begin to notice strange objects and messages – or are they clues? – scattered around. Can you and your team solve the puzzles, figure out the clues, find the key, and escape the room? You’ll have to think on your feet: our escape rooms require you to think your way out, not break your way out. You have 60 minutes, so be quick! See more..
5.0 Extreme Sandbox - Minnesota (651 reviews)
- Great time playing in the Sandbox.
Friday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Game & Entertainment Centers

Come play on an excavator or bulldozer for fun! We offer customers the unique opportunity to experience heavy equipment in safe and controlled environment. We let the kid in you play! See more..
5.0 Swiftwater Adventures (549 reviews)
- Awesome experience!
River Rafting & Tubing

This was a last minute addition to our trip to Duluth. A MUST DO EVENT for anyone looking for some fun. Water level was the lowest on record, but we still had a blast. Our guides were great and really got our 8yr daughter involved. They take care of everything just as advertised. Just show up on time and be ready to get wet(no need to bring cell phone as their pictures are way better- but do recommend a bottle of water for every 2 people in the group). We will look to book again when we are up in the area. 100% recommend them to anyone! See more..
5.0 Itasca State Park (539 reviews)
- Fun Fall Fungi
Friday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours State Parks

Established in 1891, Itasca is Minnesota's oldest state park. Today, the park totals more than 32,000 acres and includes more than 100 lakes. Walk across the mighty Mississippi as it starts its winding journey 2,552 miles to the Gulf of Mexico. Stand under towering pines at Preacher's Grove. Visit the Itasca Indian Cemetery or Wegmann's Cabin, landmarks of centuries gone by. Camp under the stars, or stay the night at the historic Douglas Lodge or cabins. Explore Wilderness Drive past the 2,000-acre Wilderness Sanctuary, one of Minnesota's seven National Natural Landmarks. See more..
5.0 Minnesota Marine Art Museum (508 reviews)
- An artistic gem of a museum
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Art Museums

This is likely the best kept secret in Minnesota. In this museum you will fine masterpieces from all your favorite artists. I was thrilled to see so many from the Hudson River Art Guild. When I first walked in and saw all the rooms of art, some I recognized from books, it took my breath away. It is easy to stroll through this museum to take in so many wonderful works of art from Monet to local artists. They have a nice gift shop as well. Their exhibits change frequently and thus returning here is always a joy. Everyone should visit this gem. See more..
4.5 Mall of America (5.929 reviews)
- Big shopping center with attached hotels; great experience for kids; Christmas is special!!
Friday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Shopping Malls

Don’t miss out on the Mall of America, which welcomes more than 40 million travelers annually from around the world. Shop at over 500 stores before refueling at any of the 50 restaurants. That’s not all; the kids will love the Nickelodeon Universe indoor theme park and SEA LIFE Aquarium. Wear good shoes as the mall is massive, with plenty of digital maps for ease of navigation. To get there, there are free shuttle buses from more than 50 hotels and the airport; the light rail will also take you directly to and from downtown Minneapolis. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Target Field (3.031 reviews)
- Fantastic
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Sports Complexes

We're St. Louis Cardinals fans and we happened to be in town. So we decided to catch a game. The stadium was beautiful and clean. A great experience. The parking situation BLEW MY MIND. Connected to the ballpark was so convenient. But leaving and we exited the parking garage and were immediately on the highway. That was astounding. Serious props to the person who designed this. It was a fantastic experience. See more..
4.5 Minnehaha Park (2.488 reviews)
- A pleasant park with the famous waterfalls and Hiawatha & Minnehaha Statue.
Parks • Waterfalls

One of the city's oldest and most popular parks. See more..
4.5 Como Park Zoo & Conservatory (2.098 reviews)
- Plan a head if a reservation is required, great free place to visit.
Friday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Zoos • Gardens • Game & Entertainment Centers

Located in historic Como Park, this popular zoo, especially known for its California sea lion exhibit, also features a great cat display, gorillas and giraffes. See more..
4.5 Minneapolis Sculpture Garden (1.802 reviews)
- Scenic Stroll
Friday: 6:00 AM - 12:00 AM Points of Interest & Landmarks • Gardens

The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is closed for renovation, and will reopen in June 2017. One of the crown jewels of the city’s park system, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden unites two of Minnesota’s most cherished resources—its greenspace and its cultural life. A partnership with the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board, the Garden is a top destination for tourists to enjoy art like the iconic Spoonbridge and Cherry in an outdoor park setting. See more..
4.5 Aerial Lift Bridge (1.719 reviews)
- Wow! So unique!
Bridges

Originally constructed in 1905 as an aerial lift, this unusual elevator bridge is 386 feet long and spans the canal entrance to Duluth Harbor. See more..
4.5 Gooseberry Falls State Park (1.635 reviews)
- A Definite Must See!!!
State Parks • Biking Trails

This North Shore park is home to a spectacular four-level waterfall, scenic overlooks and is ideal for trout fishing. See more..
4.5 Mill City Museum (1.561 reviews)
- Unique museum in Mpls
Friday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • History Museums

Built into the ruins of what was once the world's largest flour mill, Mill City Museum is located on the historic Mississippi Riverfront. Here, visitors of all ages learn about the intertwined histories of the flour industry, the river, and the city of Minneapolis. See more..
4.5 Canal Park (1.457 reviews)
- Must see when in Duluth (especially in summer)
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Parks

Watch seagulls soaring while you stroll around this popular spot, part of the revived Duluth waterfront. Nearby are a sculpture garden, jazz clubs, coffee shops, motels and restaurants. If you like ships, stand on the pier and watch huge boats and ships, some from around the world, come and go daily. See more..
4.5 Glensheen - The Historic Congdon Estate (1.281 reviews)
- Interesting family history
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums • Historic Sites • History Museums

Finished in 1908, this Lake Superior 39-room mansion enjoys a rare, intact collection of original furnishings and art. Because of that, it closely resembles the days when the Congdon family first occupied it. Truly, it is Duluth's answer to Downton Abbey. Situated on a wooded lot, the home boasts spectacular views of Lake Superior as well as multiple gardens including formal, flower, and vegetable. Guests are also encouraged to explore the carriage house, boat house, stone bridge, and pier. Children enjoy the pebbled beach for hours of rock skipping while parents take a sit in one of Adirondack chairs. Be sure to check out Glensheen as part of your must-do Duluth bucket list. See more..
4.5 Minnesota State Fair (1.234 reviews)
- Best State Fair
Spent More than 3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

Always 12 days of fun ending Labor Day, the Great Minnesota Get-Together welcomes 2 million guests annually to a world-class showcase of livestock, agriculture, horse, art, talent and creative activities competitions; 500 food items; 900 free entertainment shows; the Mighty Midway and Kidway; Grandstand concert series; 1,000 vendors; exhibits for kids and adults; and more! The 2023 fair is Aug. 24-Sept. 4; and the 2024 fair is Aug. 22-Sept. 2, 2024. See more..
4.5 Science Museum of Minnesota (1.126 reviews)
- Engaging activities for all ages
Friday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Speciality Museums • Natural History Museums • Science Museums

The Science Museum of Minnesota is one of the state’s most popular museums, with a reach that extends well beyond its riverfront location in downtown Saint Paul. In addition to its beloved visitor place, which serves hundreds of thousands of people each year with its engaging exhibits, breathtaking giant screen movies, and engaging special events, Science Museum education programs touch students in all of Minnesota’s 87 counties each year, and its research programs span the globe. Discovery awaits at the Science Museum of Minnesota! You’ll find something fascinating around every corner. We love to see the fun that our visitors have! Tag us in your photos @sciencemuseummn, or use #ShareYourDiscovery! See more..
4.5 FlyOver America (1.125 reviews)
- Fly Over Hawaii this time
Friday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Game & Entertainment Centers

FlyOver America uses the latest in flight ride technology to give you a bird's eye view of America’s most awe-inspiring sights. You will sit in a suspended chair, your feet dangling, in front of a gigantic spherical screen. Special effects including wind, mist and scents, combined with the chair’s motion, will make you feel like you’re truly flying. Plunge into deep valleys and trace the path of their rushing rivers. Feel the wind in your hair as you glide over tranquil lakes and marvel at the snow-capped mountains towering above. Take in the sights and sounds of buzzing urban settings and the expansive wild lands of the west. By the journey’s end you will be in true awe of the breathtaking splendor of our country. Coast to coast, valley floor to mountain top, you’ll travel more than 10,000 miles without leaving Mall of America! It’s time to fly! See more..
4.5 Split Rock Lighthouse (1.094 reviews)
- Access lighthouse tower with original Fresnel lens driven by the original working mechanism
Friday: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lighthouses • History Museums

Shipwrecks from a mighty 1905 November gale prompted this rugged landmark's construction. Completed by the U.S. Lighthouse Service in 1910, Split Rock Light Station soon became one of Minnesota's best known landmarks. Restored to its 1920s appearance, the light station offers a glimpse of lighthouse life in this remote and spectacular setting. Split Rock Lighthouse is a National Historic Landmark. See more..
4.5 Cathedral of Saint Paul (1.071 reviews)
- worth a visit if your here.
Friday: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM Religious Sites

This Classical Renaissance-style Cathedral dating back to 1915 features a splendid interior of six chapels, imported marble columns, large statues of the four evangelists and beautiful rose windows. See more..
4.5 Guthrie Theater (1.050 reviews)
- Extraordinary Theatre thrust deep into the Mississippi
Friday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Theaters

THE GUTHRIE THEATER is an American center for theater performance, production, education and professional training, known for its dynamic productions of classic and contemporary plays. Open to the public year-round, this award-winning cultural destination houses three theaters, dramatic public spaces and distinctive dining. Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel, the Guthrie is located in the historic Mill District of Downtown Minneapolis and features a 175-foot cantilever bridge which overlooks the Mississippi River. When it opened in 2006 Time magazine called the building "a 21st century dream factory." Visit the Guthrie to see a show, grab a cup of coffee and explore the building, shop at the Guthrie Store, or to simply take in the extraordinary riverfront views. Backstage tours are Friday and Saturday mornings. See more..
4.5 Lego Imagination Center (907 reviews)
- Legoland - Awesome!
Friday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Amusement & Theme Parks

Six thousand square feet of Lego models in the Mall of America. See more..