I guess you could say I’m pretty biased. I have lived in Minnesota my whole life and there are many great attractions here, whether it’s a venue or fun places to visit. It’s always a blast to take a road trip even if it’s just in your own state. Here are (arguably) the five most fun attractions in Minnesota.
1) Mall of America
Of course, this huge mall is in the greatest state. With there being an entire floor dedicated to restaurants, there is always many different types of food that you get to enjoy. There is a food court along with huge sit down restaurants. And, there is even more than just stores. There is an awesome mirror maze, theme park, and movie theatre as well. The stores are wonderful, they are huge (gotta love the Croc store) and some of them are only at MOA. The parking is horrific but if you can find a spot, you will have a super fun time.
2) Xcel Energy Center
AKA “The X”. From sporting events to concerts, it’s a great location to hold all types of events. I have been there more times then I can count, whether it’s for the boy’s state hockey tournament for high schoolers, Wild games (because who doesn’t love Zach Parise), the Swarm (RIP), awesome concerts and everything in between. As stressful as it is to drive downtown, it’s a very rewarding experience.
3) Paul Bunyan & Babe the Blue Ox
Going to college in northern Minnesota is awesome and seeing Paul & Babe is like a rite of passage. It doubles as an extremely awesome attraction because it’s close to Lake Bemidji. Taking a tour of your college town is always a must and you have to take everyone to see those iconic statues. There is a cute plaque that tells their story and it’s a great photo opportunity with your friends/family.
4) Canal Park
No matter how far you live from Duluth, taking a day trip or even a weekend vacation is a must. Canal Park is arguably one of the best places to shop. There is a ton of cute up north gift shops, great restaurants, the lighthouse, lift bridge, and Lake Superior. No matter how cold Lake Superior is, skipping rocks is a must do tradition. Also, nothing beats buying shirts with your best friends and taking adorable pictures.
5) Any Lake… Anywhere
No matter what time of year it is, a lake is a great time. In the winter, going out into a fish house and sitting there for hours over a hole is actually really fun and enjoyable. Another fun winter activity is pond hockey and who doesn’t love skating around? In the summer, going out on the boat is great. Whether it’s tubing, wakeboarding, water skiing, kayaking, or just going around the lake, it’s a blast. There are so many activities that are possible when you’re at your cabin or at a resort. With Minnesota having more shoreline than California, no wonder lakes are so popular. There is a reason that #LakeLife is tagged on photos.
Overall, Minnesota has many great attractions but these are (arguably) the top five. With living in Minnesota, if you’re ever bored, there is always something that you could do. How do you not love this gorgeous state?
