4.5Mill City Museum(1.561 reviews) - Unique museum in Mpls Monday: 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..
4.5Glensheen - The Historic Congdon Estate(1.281 reviews) - Interesting family history Monday: 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..
4.5Science Museum of Minnesota(1.126 reviews) - Engaging activities for all ages Monday: 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..
4.5International Wolf Center(721 reviews) - Wolfs Are Fabulous Monday: Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Educational sites
The International Wolf Center, located in Ely, Minnesota, gives visitors a chance to learn about wolves and see them in a beautiful north woods habitat. The main attraction are three live wolves that make up our Exhibit Pack. There are also interactive exhibits and live programs in the auditorium.See more..
5.0North 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..
4.5Spam Museum and Visitor Center(703 reviews) - Nice Museum ! Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums
This 14,000 square foot museum features 9 SPAMtastic galleries with interactive games and photo opportunities. Admission is free to all visitors.See more..
4.5Paisley Park(685 reviews) - Have to see if you love Prince Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Points of Interest & Landmarks
Only you can discover how Paisley Park will move you. Let Prince's unique energy inspire you all over again by experiencing a tour or event at this legendary place. Paisley Park is an active museum, state-of-the-art recording studio, and concert venue in Chanhassen, MN. For nearly 30 years, the facility served as Prince’s home, creative sanctuary, and production complex. Fulfilling Prince’s vision that Paisley Park would one day be open to the public, the venue today welcomes fans, musicians, and audiophiles for tours, concerts, festivals, and special events.See more..
This maritime museum details the Great Lakes' history and the part they played in the shipping industry.See more..
4.0Great Lakes Aquarium(609 reviews) - Certainly worthwhile if you are in Duluth Monday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Speciality Museums • Natural History Museums • Aquariums
The only aquarium in the U.S. that focuses on freshwater exhibits, this three-story waterfront structure is ready for public viewing after a year and a half and almost $34 million. Plenty of interactive exhibits and re-created habitats are fun and educational for children.See more..
4.5American Swedish Institute(508 reviews) - American Swedish Institute Amazing Visit Monday: Speciality Museums • History Museums
Founded in 1929 by Swan J. Turnblad, this castle serves as a combination historic house/museum that features exhibits and programs of the Swedish culture.See more..
In the heart of Canal Park, set against the majestic Aerial Lift Bridge, is a Great Lakes vessel you can’t miss—and won’t want to. Despite carrying iron ore and coal for 40 years through treacherous storms, the William A. Irvin remains in pristine condition today. Don’t miss your chance to tour the proud flagship of U.S. Steel’s Great Lakes Fleet. Schedule a group visit, get ticketing information or discover its rich history. Open May-September.See more..
4.5Schell's(376 reviews) - Great tour Monday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums • Breweries
Step back in time at this majestic brewery, nestled in the wooded hillside overlooking the Cottonwood River. Established in 1860, this 150 year old brewery is nationally renowned for its award winning beers, with varieties to fit everyone’s tastes. Enjoy the beautiful gardens, complete with wandering peacocks. The Visitors Center houses the Museum of Brewing, Gift Shop and a beautiful old-world style Rathskellar Tap Room (open for tours only). Public and private tours available; call for current details. During the summer months, visit the outdoor Bier Garten under the majestic walnut trees and enjoy fine Schell’s beverages. Live music on Sundays only. (open weather permitting). The first weekend of November features a Christmas Open House. Come and experience all that America’s second-oldest, family-owned brewery has to offer.See more..
On a hot sultry day in mid-July 1802, partners of the most successful fur trade company in North America, the North West Company, met in their majestic Great Hall at Grand Portage and voted to move their summer headquarters from the protected shores of Lake Superior’s Grand Portage Bay 50 miles north to the mouth of the Kaministquia River. Almost from the time the vigorous Anglo-Scot Nor’Westers had organized at Grand Portage in the mid 1780’s an emerging United States wanted them out. The July vote would mean that 18 buildings constructed from native squared spruce, pine and birch and over 2,000 cedar pickets surrounding them would be torn down, transported north in company schooners and used in constructing the new Fort William far from U.S. soil. As early as 2,000 years ago, Indian Nations probably used Kitchi Onigaming “the Great Carrying Place” to travel from summer homes on Lake Superior to winter hunting grounds in the interior of Minnesota and Ontario. In 1729 Cree guide Auchagah drew a map for some of the first French fur traders showing them how to reach the "western sea" of Lake Winnipeg. Other Europeans would follow, in time, Grand Portage became the gateway into rich northern fur bearing country connecting remote interior outposts to lucrative international markets. Reopened in 1951 as Grand Portage National Historic Site, designated a National Monument in 1958, its nearly 710 acres lying entirely within the boundaries of Grand Portage Ojibwe Indian Reservation, the reconstructed depot celebrates fur trade and Ojibwe lifeways. Today as yesterday, the people, the cultures and the land have much to share.See more..
The world's largest boot is on display here! It is marked as Size 638 and is likely the center point of attraction for this location. There is a certificate from the Guiness Book of World Records attesting to the claim that this is the largest boot. The top floor is practically a small museum - it has a few displays about the beginning of the Red Wing Shoe Company, its evolution and where it stands today. There are also a few displays going into detail about the shoe making process. There are, as expected, various types of shoes, boots and Red Wing t-shirts for sale at the store. The store is located on the main thoroughfare in the town and is free to visit. But probably the biggest attraction is the giant work boot as you enter the store!See more..
4.5Foshay Tower(286 reviews) - Worth a trip up if it's a clear sunny day. Monday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM Speciality Museums • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings
After recent renovation, our museum and observation deck are now open seven days a week from 12:00pm-9:00pm. Weather permitting, both will be open year round.See more..
4.5Dorothy Molter Museum(202 reviews) - Very interesting museum of a remarkable lady Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Historic Sites
Through tours of Dorothy’s original cabins, self-guided exploration of our outdoor, natural areas, community programming and a wide selection of mission-driven retail merchandise (including our own Isle of Pines Root Beer made with REAL sugar), visitors will leave with an understanding of who Dorothy was, how she lived in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and a greater appreciation for the Ely Area’s natural and cultural history.See more..
4.5Runestone Museum(194 reviews) - Worth the cost Monday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Natural History Museums • History Museums
Rated a Gem “must-see” point of interest by AAA. This kid-friendly museum has a Scavenger Hunt for the young and young at heart! Our most famous artifact is the Kensington Runestone and its mysterious runic message. Was it carved in 1362? Recent laboratory and linguistic analysis of the stone suggests yes! But even as more supporting evidence of its authenticity is revealed, controversy continues to swirl around this internationally renowned artifact. Visit the museum, see the Runestone and learn its story…then decide for yourself. The Runestone Museum also features pioneer displays, a wildlife exhibit, a World War II living room with 1940’s music playing, a children’s discovery area and special limited time exhibits. The museum’s Native American exhibit garnered national attention when our rare 1920s Ojibwe jingle dress appeared in the American Indian Art magazine. There is now a decorated full sized Tipi in the Native American camp diorama. Fort Alexandria is a delightful collection of restored buildings from 1868 to 1910 that includes a furnished township school, pioneer church, log home, and stage stop. The large Annex has many displays, including a 40 foot replica Viking ship and a huge 1906 steam tractor. The third annual History Live! in Fort Alexandria will be Fri. and Sat. June 23 - 24, 2017. Enjoy live historic reenactments from the Fur Trade, Pioneer, and Civil War eras, kid’s activities and family fun. Check the museum website for dates and admission prices. The museum is open year round.See more..
4.5Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum(180 reviews) - Any Laura Ingalls fan must STOP here. Monday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • History Museums
Gift Store Open, Museum buildings closed until April 1. Walnut Grove Minnesota is the childhood home of author Laura Ingalls Wilder who penned the “Little House” series of books. The Museum consists of 9 structures telling the stories of the Ingalls' family and other early pioneers to Walnut Grove; several of which are mentioned in Laura's book "On the Banks of Plum Creek". A great family friendly environment with several hands on locations throughout the complex of buildings. Visit in July on one of 3 weekends for our Wilder Pageant and Family Festival.See more..
4.5Mayowood Historic Home(174 reviews) - Beautiful home with beautiful grounds Monday: Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Historic Sites
A tour of Mayowood is to experience the personal lives of Dr. Charlie Mayo, co-founder of the Mayo Clinic, and his son, Dr. Chuck Mayo, and gives visitors an opportunity to celebrate their amazing achievements in medicine and human service. The 23,000-square foot, thirty-eight room home was built in 1910 by Dr. Charlie and Edith Mayo. The home is built of concrete construction, the first of its kind in southeast Minnesota. Once a 3,300-acre country estate, the house has seen many changes over the years. Indoors, original Mayo family artifacts tell the story of their many world travels and how the home was used as a house of hospitality to entertain the community and VIP celebrity guests. Outdoors, the home is surrounded by a grand terrace overlooking the Zumbro River along with beautiful botanical gardens and an Oriental Tea House.See more..
4.5The St. Louis County Depot(149 reviews) - A must see for all ages Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums
So much to do, see, and experience. The Depot is truly a multi-generation attraction with something to interest all ages, so make sure to treat the entire family to an experience they will never forget, and memories they will cherish making together. The St Louis County Depot is fortunate to be the home to seven different organizations. With all of these amazing organizations housed under one really large, very beautiful roof, it is easy to see why the Depot is the area’s hub for arts, history, and culture. Every corner of the Depot evokes a spark of curiosity. The Depot isn’t just a place to visit – it’s a place to experience.See more..
The Bakken Museum inspires a passion for innovation by exploring the potential for science, technology, and the humanities to make the world a better place. A beautiful Gothic and Tudor Revival-style mansion, unique artifact and book collections, dynamic exhibits, and rich education experiences - we have something for every member of the family.See more..
4.5Watkins Museum and Store(104 reviews) - Watkins-been around forever because they make good stuff! Speciality Museums
The history in this museum was incredible! I have used these products as fun memories of my grandmothers who swore by each and every product made! They have a fabulous collection of bottles and products from their long history. The store is cute and they have specials monthly. We bought several items to bring home to my kitchenSee more..
4.5Twin City Model Railroad Museum(81 reviews) - Magical "Night Lights" Display Monday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Children's Museums
Children 4 and under FREE! Explore the history of trains in the Twin Cities as well as the hobby of modal railroading through interactive layouts in all scales and sizes! Interpretive panels tell the story of model railroading along with many collections of toy trains. Little engineers will enjoy playing with the Thomas wooden and electric layouts while visitors of all ages will love the incredibly detailed toy train layouts! Regular adult Admission: $10 per person. Night Trains Admission (Saturday nights Nov-Feb): $15 per person. Children 4 and under are free!See more..
We had a good time going on the train. We were disappointed that it could not make it to its final destination. Apparently there was a dog on the track and it continuesly delayed the train! My brother was here from Colorado. We enjoyed seeing what we could see. There were some pretty waterfalls and some little streams to see. Lots of tree colors were great to see. The train was comfortable and it was fun to move about the train and see the different train cars. The conductors were interesting to listen to as they gave some history of the train.See more..
4.0Old Central School(72 reviews) - History relived Speciality Museums • Historic Sites
Love this place since my father-in-law went to school here. Now a series of quaint stores in a very attractive historical building. Worth the stopSee more..
5.0Fagen Fighters WWII Museum(70 reviews) - Weekend Visit to Fagan Fighters Museum -Granite Falls MN Monday: Speciality Museums
We were out of town celebrating our 10 yr Wedding Anniversary and we heard about this place and my husband is a Veteran and we decided to stop in and see this place. We got there about an hr before closing and we easily could have spent 3 or 4 hours reading and seeing everything they have a "huge" collection and alot of things to see and read about. We loved it we plan to come bk and spend more time reading and looking at everything again if ever headed that direction. And maybe next time heading there we will bring the kids with to see it cuz I am sure they would really enjoy it too. Really really cool place.See more..
4.0Greyhound Bus Museum(68 reviews) - Excellent Museum! Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums
Center devoted to the origin and history of the Greyhound Bus Company.See more..
This was fascinating! As history majors, we go to museums all over the world. Though small, this ranks up there with Smithsonian affiliated ones we've visited in other states. I certainly found it much more interesting than the Minnesota History Center in St. Paul. Well done. See more..
Experience what life was like at this state-run school for orphaned or neglected children. The Minnesota State Public School for Dependent and Neglected Children was built in 1886 and closed in 1945. The museum uses exhibits of artifacts, as well as video and audio stations to tell the story of the more than 10,000 children who came through the school.See more..
Museum CLOSED for the season except for special events. Trading Post open year-round. The Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Trading Post includes a museum dedicated to telling the story of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe and an adjacent restored 1930s trading post where visitors can find American Indian gifts from Mille Lacs artisans.See more..
4.5Hinckley Fire Museum(51 reviews) - Good piece of history Monday: Speciality Museums
Museum dedicated to informing visitors about the fatal fire and tornado that claimed the lives of more than 400 people in Hinckley, Minn.See more..
Collector cars, gas pumps, memorabilia and grounds.See more..
4.5U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame(44 reviews) - Definitely worth a stop when you're in the area! Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums
This recently renovated complex features a new auditorium, a hockey art gallery, an Olympic memorial and exhibits dedicated to America's high school and college hockey champions.See more..
4.5Polish Museum(41 reviews) - Excellent tour guide Monday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • History Museums
The mission of the Polish Cultural Institute and Museum is to collect, preserve, exhibit, interpret and disseminate the heritage of the Kashubian Polish Culture. It resides in a three-story building built in 1890 by the Laird-Norton Lumber Company. It also maintains Winona’s Kashubian Polish traditions through events and other initiatives.See more..
4.5Minnesota Musem of Mining(37 reviews) - Shockingly surprised! Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums
This was a rainy day "what should we do?" option as waited out a storm to clear so we could bike the Mesabi Trail. Boy, were we in for a treat! It was not only a mining museum but they have also done an amazing job of presenting life over the past 100 years or so in all areas of living on the iron range. It included mock up Doc Hollywood office (he practiced there in Chisholm), appliances from all over the 1900's, working train track set, and many unique dated products. The mine mock up that is just beside the visitor center office is fantastic. You really feel like you've walked down into the mine. The machinery spaced out all over the property outside is fabulous too. You can climb on and get in almost everything! And, wow, the enormity of the equipment! The group that's worked on this museum needs to receive much applause! What we thought would be a quick 1/2 hour time-killing visit turned into 1 1/2 hours of enjoyment.See more..
5.0Wings of the North Air Museum(34 reviews) - Amazing Time Temporarily closed - Closed until further notice Spent 1-2 hours Military Museums • Speciality Museums • History Museums
The museum features five beautifully restored World War II aircraft including an AT-6D Texan, a P-51D Mustang, and a Boeing N2S-1 Stearman that was flown by future President George HW Bush during his training as a Navy pilot, and a TBM Avenger. Other displays include aircraft engines, an ejection seat, a WWII Jeep built by Ford, and aviation art. Tours for groups of 8 or more by appointment and the museum is available for small group meetings and parties. Call for rates. We are often open on holidays. Call or check our Facebook page.See more..
4.5Minnesota Military Museum(34 reviews) - Informative Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Military Museums • Speciality Museums
Great museum with a lot of great history memorabilia. Definitely recommend stopping in if your in the area. See more..
4.5Bronko Nagurski Museum(30 reviews) - A fun museum chocked full of historical nuggets, sports, Indians, games, fire engines Speciality Museums
I got way more than I expected. I am not into football but the history of Bronco was captivating, all the Indian historical culture and items were also very interesting. I was surprised that there is a section for the history of toys which was a pleasant surprise (Pong 1972!). Lastly there is a section with 2 old fire engines and "The Merry maker" wind driven snow mobile. Totally worth stopping in to experience.See more..
What a great place to learn about fishing of the Great Lake Superior. The museum is very nice to say the least. What really helps it to stand out is Bill the host, so friendly and giving of information. Thanks Bill.. Also posted is the flag of the America Ship that served the north shore for so many years.. She sunk but still lives on with her stories and also a video about her that is fantastic.. ;See more..
We were traveling through the area and noticed on TripAdvisor about Spomer Classics and Museum. We called Marv and he even stayed open later so we could see these treasurers. His wife Jeanine also was there and greeted us. Such a delightful couple. But the museum has so much to offer!!! It is a "MUST SEE" !! Beautiful classics and collectible lighted signs that have been restored. They do an excellent job of displaying them.See more..
4.5Otter Tail County Museum(26 reviews) - large agricultural wing Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums
The museum is interesting right from the parking lot. Three unique bike racks provide a place to park your bike. For those who wish to bike, traffic can be heavy especially if you are coming from the west. Those interested in agricultural history and old farm equipment have 50-60% of the museum to explore. Visitors can learn about farming challenges in a small theater. The remainder of the museum includes a large Native American diorama. This was my favorite part of the museum. In the Native American section, pull out the cabinet drawers to see more items. In the drawers, you may find moccasins and arrowheads. Other exhibits include various types of businesses from the 1800's-early 1900's. The museum has a large git shop at the entrance with many books and other items.See more..
4.0Polaris Experience Center(25 reviews) - Great Camping Monday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Speciality Museums
What a lovely campground. Open spaces, dock for fishing on The Roseau River, great hiking & so quiet!See more..
Radio broadcasting is the focus of this museum, which is filled with old equipment and memorabilia.See more..
4.5Minnesota Fishing Museum(24 reviews) - Looking for Mississippi headwaters Monday: Speciality Museums • History Museums
In 1998 the city of Little Falls gave it's approval and support for the Minnesota Fishing Museum. The current collection of over 10,000 artifacts is beautifully displayed and lovingly maintained. A "log cabin" set recreates an old time fish camp at the lake. A large diorama depicts a typical spearing dark house on a frozen lake, complete with a Northern Pike moving in to be taken. Numerous displays showcase the artifacts found in many anglers' tackle boxes through the years. Motors dating back to 1902 are displayed throughout. The aquarium with live native fish is the focal point for learning and just plain relaxing. The Minnesota State record fish display inspires anglers to catch "the big one."See more..
5.0Gammelgarden Museum(23 reviews) - A wonderful look into the life of Swedish immigrants Monday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Speciality Museums
Museum is open for tours May through mid-October. The Butik gift shop is open May to Christmas. Great place for a view of Minnesota history. We're closed Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day and Thanksgiving day.See more..
4.0Itasca County Historical Society(19 reviews) - Itasca County Historical Society & genealogy research center Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums A must visit to view the very well done displays of the rich history of Itasca County or to research your family history. Entry is FREE. I keep going back as new displays are frequently added.See more..
5.0Winona National Bank(19 reviews) - Lions and Tigers and....oh my Monday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality Museums
Who knew you would find a natural history museum as well as the beautiful glass. Well worth the visit. See more..
The museum is located in an unconventional spot - the third floor of the Airport Crowne Plaza Hotel! While it is laid out in a small space, the museum has a good collection of displays relating to Northwest Airlines. It does an excellent job of impressing upon a visitor the history of Northwest Airlines and the evolution of aviation in the Midwest. The entry to the museum is free. When we visited, the museum was manned by a former employee of the airline and she was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic. While there are a number of interesting exhibits in the museum and aviation enthusiasts can spend over a couple of hours here, there is nothing much for little children to do or see here. It was fascinating to read up about the origins of Northwest, various acquisitions and mergers that happened before being eventually amalgamated into Delta. This museum is a must visit if you are an aviation buff!See more..
4.0Ellingson Car Museum(16 reviews) - Great for Classic Car fans Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums
Ellingson Motorcars is the Best Dealer in Minnesota to Buy, Sell, or Consign you Classic Car. It is just a quick drive from downtown Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport - located just of I-94 in Rogers, MN. Our dealership specializes in collectible classic cars and trucks. We sell anything from a 1929 Model A to Classic American Muscle Cars. We also have an on-site service department that caters specifically to classic cars. Ellingson's is open 10 am - 5 pm Monday through Saturday (and is usually closed on Major US holidays).See more..
A visit to the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame was on my bucket list and it did not disappoint! The biggest surprises for me was how many of the artist I knew and/or have seen perform form Leo Kottke to Mick Sterling. The audio narration of the artist stories is so professionally sound. Highly recommend for any music fans.See more..
