Day Trips from Minneapolis
← All Minneapolis day tripsDay Trips from Minneapolis: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Minneapolis, MN. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Minneapolis
Whitney Overlook
St Cloud, MN 56301
Just 1 hr 9 min from Minneapolis, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Overlook
MN 55347, USA
Just 28 min from Minneapolis, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Eau Galle Reservoir Overlook
Spring Valley, WI 54767
Just 1 hr from Minneapolis, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Skyline Scenic Overlook
MN 55806, USA
Just 2 hrs 17 min from Minneapolis, rated 4.7 stars by 107 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook
Stillwater, MN 55082
Just 34 min from Minneapolis, rated 4.7 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Viewpoint
Two Harbors, MN 55616
Just 2 hrs 51 min from Minneapolis, rated 4.7 stars by 120 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Scenic Overlook
WI 54759, USA
Just 1 hr 26 min from Minneapolis, rated 4.6 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook
WI 54769, USA
Just 1 hr 17 min from Minneapolis, rated 4.6 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
St. Croix Scenic Overlook
Stillwater, MN 55082
Just 36 min from Minneapolis, rated 4.5 stars by 140 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Minnesota River Vista Outlook
MN 55347, USA
Just 26 min from Minneapolis, rated 4.5 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lake St. Croix Overlook
Oak Park Heights, MN 55082
Just 32 min from Minneapolis, rated 4.5 stars by 174 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
TEACHER'S OVERLOOK
Askov, MN 55704
Just 1 hr 28 min from Minneapolis, rated 4.4 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Minneapolis
What are the best scenic drives near Minneapolis, MN?
The best scenic drives near Minneapolis include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Minneapolis?
Most scenic drives near Minneapolis range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Minneapolis?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Minneapolis, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Minneapolis?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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