As the summer sun shines bright, Minneapolis transforms into a vibrant hub of outdoor activities, cultural events, and exciting explorations. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and thriving arts scene, Minneapolis is an ideal destination for summer travel. But, the fun doesn’t stop within the city limits! There are plenty of amazing places to visit near Minneapolis in the summer, each offering a unique experience that will leave you with lifelong memories.
Exploring the Best of the Twin Cities and Beyond
From scenic lakes and parks to charming towns and historic landmarks, the areas surrounding Minneapolis are filled with hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, there’s something for everyone near Minneapolis in the summer.
Get Ready to Discover the Best Summer Destinations
In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey to the top places to visit near Minneapolis in the summer. From popular attractions to off-the-beaten-path destinations, we’ll cover it all. So, pack your sunscreen, grab your sunglasses, and get ready to explore the best of the Twin Cities and beyond!
Places to Visit Near Minneapolis in Summer
Minneapolis, the city of lakes, is a popular summer destination in the Midwest. While the city itself has plenty to offer, there are also many exciting places to visit near Minneapolis in the summer. From outdoor adventures to cultural attractions, here are some of the top places to visit near Minneapolis in the summer:
Outdoor Adventures
If you love the great outdoors, there are many exciting places to visit near Minneapolis in the summer. Here are a few options:
- Lake Minnetonka: Located just 20 miles west of Minneapolis, Lake Minnetonka is a popular summer destination for boating, fishing, and swimming.
- Fort Snelling State Park: This park offers hiking, biking, and picnicking opportunities, as well as a historic fort and a beautiful beach.
- Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge: This refuge is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, fish, and mammals, and offers hiking trails and scenic drives.
Cultural Attractions
If you’re interested in art, history, and culture, there are many exciting places to visit near Minneapolis in the summer. Here are a few options: (See Also: Places To Visit Near Bridport)
- The Walker Art Center’s Sculpture Garden: Located in neighboring St. Paul, this garden features over 50 modern and contemporary sculptures, including the famous Spoonbridge and Cherry.
- The Minneapolis Institute of Art: With a collection of over 89,000 works of art, this museum is a must-visit for art lovers.
- The Mill City Museum: Located in the ruins of the Washburn A Mill, this museum tells the story of Minneapolis’ history and industry.
Day Trips
If you’re looking for a longer adventure, there are many exciting places to visit near Minneapolis in the summer that make for great day trips. Here are a few options:
| Destination | Distance from Minneapolis | Things to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Stillwater, MN | 35 miles, 45 minutes | Take a stroll along the St. Croix River, visit the Stillwater Lift Bridge, and enjoy the town’s charming shops and restaurants. |
| Red Wing, MN | 50 miles, 1 hour | Visit the Red Wing Shoe Store & Museum, take a stroll along the Mississippi River, and enjoy the town’s historic architecture. |
| Wisconsin Dells, WI | 220 miles, 3.5 hours | Enjoy waterparks, amusement parks, and outdoor adventures in this popular summer destination. |
Festivals and Events
Summer is a great time to visit Minneapolis, with many exciting festivals and events taking place throughout the season. Here are a few highlights:
- Twin Cities Jazz Festival: Held in June, this festival features live jazz music and food vendors in downtown St. Paul.
- Minneapolis Aquatennial: Held in July, this festival features live music, food vendors, and fireworks over Lake Calhoun.
- Minnesota State Fair: Held in August and September, this fair features live music, food vendors, and agricultural exhibits.
Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or day trips, there are many exciting places to visit near Minneapolis in the summer. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to explore the Twin Cities!
Conclusion
As the summer sun shines bright, Minneapolis transforms into a vibrant hub of outdoor activities and exciting attractions. In this article, we explored the top places to visit near Minneapolis during the summer season. From the scenic beauty of Lake Minnetonka to the thrill of Valleyfair Amusement Park, there’s something for everyone in the Twin Cities.
We delved into the rich history and culture of the region by visiting the Mill City Museum and the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. We also discovered the great outdoors at Fort Snelling State Park and the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, where nature lovers can hike, bike, and spot local wildlife. (See Also: Places To Visit Near St Albans)
In addition, we highlighted the charming towns of Excelsior and Stillwater, which offer a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day trip or an action-packed adventure, these destinations are sure to delight.
In conclusion, Minneapolis and its surrounding areas offer a diverse range of summer attractions that cater to all interests and ages. From outdoor enthusiasts to history buffs and families, there’s no shortage of exciting places to visit near Minneapolis in the summer. So pack your sunscreen, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the best of the Twin Cities!
Frequently Asked Questions: Places to Visit Near Minneapolis in Summer
What are some outdoor activities to do near Minneapolis in the summer?
Minneapolis and its surrounding areas offer a variety of outdoor activities during the summer. Some popular options include hiking and biking at Fort Snelling State Park, kayaking or paddleboarding on Lake Minnetonka, and exploring the numerous trails and parks in the Three Rivers Park District. You can also visit the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, which features beautiful gardens and walking trails.
Are there any nearby beaches to visit in the summer?
Yes, there are several beaches near Minneapolis that are perfect for a summer day trip. Some popular options include Excelsior Beach on Lake Minnetonka, Lake Nokomis Beach in Minneapolis, and Bde Maka Ska Beach in Minneapolis. These beaches offer swimming, picnicking, and other outdoor activities.
What are some family-friendly attractions near Minneapolis in the summer?
There are many family-friendly attractions near Minneapolis that are great to visit during the summer. Some popular options include the Minnesota Zoo, which features a variety of animals and a petting zoo, and Valleyfair amusement park, which offers roller coasters and water rides. You can also visit the Science Museum of Minnesota, which features interactive exhibits and a giant Omnitheater. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Vikarabad)
Are there any summer festivals or events near Minneapolis?
Yes, there are many summer festivals and events near Minneapolis. Some popular options include the Twin Cities Jazz Festival, the Basilica Block Party, and the Minnesota State Fair, which takes place in late summer. You can also visit the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, which hosts outdoor concerts and events during the summer.
What are some nearby towns to visit on a day trip from Minneapolis in the summer?
There are several charming towns near Minneapolis that make great day trip destinations in the summer. Some popular options include Stillwater, which features historic architecture and scenic views of the St. Croix River, and Excelsior, which offers shopping, dining, and lake activities. You can also visit the town of Red Wing, which is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.