Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Minneapolis, MN
Minneapolis is a gateway to Minnesota's finest outdoor escapes — waterfalls, state parks, historic river towns, and lake country are all just a short drive from the city.
The North Shore and state parks offer some of Minnesota's best scenery within a few hours.
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or browse all12 destinations near Minneapolis
Rusty the Dragon
Ogilvie, MN 56358
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.9 stars) · 1 hr 16 min from Minneapolis · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
River Bend Nature Center
Faribault, MN 55021
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.4k+ visitors) · 59 min from Minneapolis · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Hidden Falls
Nerstrand, MN 55053
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.5k+ visitors) · 1 hr 4 min from Minneapolis · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Franconia Sculpture Park
Shafer, MN 55074
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.7 by 1.7k+ visitors) · 53 min from Minneapolis · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
St. Croix National Scenic Riverway
St Croix Falls, WI 54024
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 2.1k+ visitors) · 1 hr from Minneapolis · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Mystery Cave State Park
MN 55975, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.5k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 5 min from Minneapolis · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Crystal Cave
Spring Valley, WI 54767
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.7 by 1.7k+ visitors) · 1 hr 1 min from Minneapolis · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Big Falls County Park
Eau Claire, WI 54703
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.7k+ visitors) · 1 hr 47 min from Minneapolis · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park
Nerstrand, MN 55053
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 1.5k+ visitors) · 1 hr 2 min from Minneapolis · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Mineral Springs Park
1025 Mineral Springs Pkwy NE, Owatonna
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.4k+ visitors) · 1 hr 6 min from Minneapolis · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Father Hennepin State Park
Isle, MN 56342
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 1.0k+ visitors) · 1 hr 36 min from Minneapolis · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Devil's Punchbowl Preserve
Menomonie, WI 54751
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.6 by 0.7k+ visitors) · 1 hr 13 min from Minneapolis · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from Minneapolis, MN?
The best day trips from Minneapolis include state parks, historic towns, scenic drives, wineries, and outdoor recreation. Our page shows top-rated destinations with real drive times, Google ratings, and budget estimates so you can pick the right trip for your schedule and interests.
How far should I drive for a day trip from Minneapolis?
Most great day trips from Minneapolis are between 1 and 3 hours away. Under an hour gets you local parks and nearby towns. Two to three hours opens up state parks, lakefront destinations, and small cities worth a full day of exploring.
What are cheap things to do near Minneapolis?
Many of the best day trips near Minneapolis are free or low-cost. State parks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small-town Main Streets are all great options. Check the budget estimates on each destination card above to plan a trip that fits your wallet.
What is the best time of year for day trips from Minneapolis?
Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near Minneapolis, with mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is great for beaches and water activities. Winter works well for indoor attractions like museums, historic sites, and food-focused trips. Check the seasonal notes on each card for specific timing tips.
Are there weekend getaways near Minneapolis?
Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of Minneapolis make excellent overnight trips. Look for spots with multiple activities, good dining, and nearby lodging. Use the "Plan This Trip" button on any card to start building an itinerary, or check our drive-time pages for destinations at specific distances. If you need a car, compare rental options to find the best deal.
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