places-to-visit-in-minnesota-in-winter

15 Beautiful Places To Visit In Minnesota In Winter

Minnesota is a beautiful place to visit year-round, but winter is particularly breathtaking. This state has the second largest number of lakes in the country and more than 1,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline which make for some stunning scenery.

Being this is my 8th winter in Minnesota, it’s safe to say that I have had the opportunity to explore these beautiful places to visit in Minnesota in winter & some of these places more than once! Which will you visit first?

places-to-visit-in-minnesota-in-winter

Where should I go in the winter in Minnesota?

Below is a list of 15 beautiful places to visit in Minnesota in winter to help you decide where you should go in the winter in Minnesota:

1. Duluth

Duluth, Minnesota has a plethora of tourist attractions and activities. Visitors can visit Canal Park, which offers exhibits about the shipping industry in Duluth’s port on Lake Superior – it also has great views from its observation tower.

There are also several restaurants in this district including locally made specialty shops. With many events hosted throughout the year like Grandma’s Marathon Weekend or Labor Day Festival you will never run out of things to do at this Minnesota bucket list destination!

7 Wonderful Things To Do In Duluth In The Winter

places-to-visit-in-minnesota-in-winter

2. Wabasha

Wabasha, MN is a wonderfully small Mississippi River town in Southeast Minnesota. Enjoy the history, delicious food, fun activities, & gorgeous view of the Mississippi River during your visit!

Things To Do In Wabasha MN

The Annual Grumpy Old Men Festival is one of Wabasha’s winter highlights, as well as, eagle viewing along the Mississippi River! For more things to do in Wabasha MN, check out 20 Things To Do In Wabasha, MN & More

places-to-visit-in-minnesota-in-winter

3. Ely

It’s always exciting to explore new places and spend time in the winter! I recommend you pack your snow gear because Ely, Minnesota is known for its snowy winters. Here are some fun activities that will keep everyone happy all day long:

Things To Do In Ely, MN In Winter

places-to-visit-in-minnesota-in-winter

4. Minnehaha Falls

The Minnehaha Regional Park is a popular destination for tourists & locals alike. This park has the beautiful Minnehaha Falls along with an old mill to explore and trails that lead into the woods surrounding it.

The name of this park means “laughing water” because it came from Sioux language which refers towards waterfall that one can see when they visit here.

places-to-visit-in-minnesota-in-winter

5. Winona

Winona is a city in southeastern Minnesota on the banks of the Mississippi River. It has many historic downtown buildings and parks like Garvin Heights where recreational facilities complement those found at local state parks such as hiking trails, biking routes, golfing, & more to allow you to enjoy nature’s gift near Winona.

5 Things To Do In Winona, MN

  • Sledding
  • Ice Skating at one of their main public ice rinks
  • Fat Tire Biking
  • Ice Fishing
  • Cross Country Skiing – check out the Visit Winona page for more details

6. Lutsen

Lutsen, Minnesota is a winter wonderland with an abundance of activities to do. From skiing and snowboarding on the slopes or cross-country trails in beautiful natural settings like forests filled with fresh powder – there’s something for everyone!

In addition you can enjoy ice fishing trips near Lake Superior as well as wildlife viewing opportunities throughout these pristine woodlands

Things To Do In Lutsen MN In Winter

  • Skiing or Snowboarding in the Lutsen Mountains
  • Snowmobiling – find snowmobile rentals here
  • Find the Northern Lights
  • Check out one of their many winter events – Lutsen Area Events on the Cook County website.
  • Hiking
places-to-visit-in-minnesota-in-winter

7. The Gunflint Trail

The Gunflint Trail in Minnesota is a must-see for winter sports enthusiasts. From cross country skiing, snowmobiling and dog sleigh riding to ice fishing on one of the five lakes dotting its 30+ miles – there’s something here to suit every taste!

places-to-visit-in-minnesota-in-winter

8. Rochester

Rochester, MN has a thriving downtown where you can enjoy unique dining and entertainment options. The city’s many restaurants, bars, stores are connected with skyways or by underground walkways to make traveling easy!

Also located in downtown Rochester is the historic & world class Mayo Clinic, which is worth checking out. They also offer many tours, both self-guided & scheduled.

Things To Do In Rochester MN In Winter

  • Explore some of Rochester many parks – find a list of great parks here
  • Snow tubing at Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch
  • Go Ice Skating at Rochester’s many public rinks
  • Explore Downtown Rochester
  • Attend SocialICE
places-to-visit-in-minnesota-in-winter

9. The Brainerd Lakes Area

The Brainerd Lakes Area in Minnesota is a winter wonderland! There are all sorts of activities you can do to keep yourself busy, from ice skating at one rink to exploring cross country skiing trails. The beauty that surrounds this region during the cold months makes it an unforgettable destination for visitors looking to get out there and enjoy some time outdoors

Things To Do In Brainerd MN In Winter

  • Because of all the lakes in this area – ice fishing is one of the best activities!
  • Skiing & Tubing at Mount Ski Gull
  • Winter Mountain Biking

11. Gooseberry Falls

The most visited Minnesota State Park, Gooseberry Falls features spectacular waterfalls and scenic overlooks. There are also interpretive programs that highlight history, geology and wildlife of the North Shore, campgrounds, great trails, & a wonderful visitor center.

Whether you love hiking or skiing/snowmobiling there is so much to do here. Don’t miss this Minnesota bucket list worthy park! Visit in the winter to avoid the typical crowds.

12. The Twin Cities: Minneapolis & St. Paul

Here in the Twin Cities, Minnesota it’s cold and snowy but that doesn’t mean we have to hibernate for winter. The fun activities will keep people busy all season long!

St. Paul

With its famous Saint Paul Winter Carnival, the city celebrates all things cold and frozen in a variety of fun-filled ways to enjoy during this season!

Find St. Paul winter events here.

Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a fantastic place to visit in the winter with all of its scenic views and fun activities. In addition, there are many great shops located near Lake Calhoun for you enjoy antiquing when it gets too cold outside!

Find Minneapolis winter events here.

places-to-visit-in-minnesota-in-winter

10. New Ulm

With its famous historical architecture and picturesque landscapes, New Ulm is a great destination in winter for those who enjoy outdoor activities. The city offers plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors when it’s colder than usual outside including cross country skiing at scenic parks like Lakelook Park or snow shoeing through botanical gardens that are also open year round!

13. Red Wing

How about a road trip to Red Wing, Minnesota? It’s an hour and half drive from the Twin Cities. You can take your time exploring this beautiful town that was founded in 1856 by Swedish immigrants who settled there after arriving on the shores of Lake Superior via ship or boat! There is plenty for everyone; whether you’re looking into history at one notable site like The Northern Light Historic District (Swedish settlement) with over 50 blocks worth sites), nature lovers will enjoy hiking through pristine forests.

4 Things To Do In Red Wing MN

  • Explore the Historic Downtown Red Wing shops & places to eat
  • Head To Welch Village to ski or snowboard
  • Hike Barn Bluff for some awesome views from above
  • Take a stroll along the Mississippi River

14. Stillwater

You’ll never want to leave the great outdoors behind when you visit Stillwater, Minnesota. Whether it’s for winter sports or just some good old fashioned fun in nature – there are so many things that this beautiful area has offer!

Top Things To Do In Stillwater MN In Winter

  • Check the Ice Palace Maze
  • Take a walk along the historic lift bridge
  • Go snow tubing at Green Acres Rec
  • Check out local shops & explore downtown Stillwater
  • For more Stillwater Winter inspo & events check out their website

15. Bemidji

If you’re looking for a winter getaway, Bemidji is the place. If there’s one thing they love in this state more than frozen lakes and snow-filled fields it would have to be their hockey teams!

With so many activities waiting just below its surface – local lakes and ponds are transformed into an outdoor rinks — it’s no wonder that thousands flock here every year from near and far alike

5 Best Things To Do In Bemidji In Winter

  • Snowmobiling
  • Check out the Night We Light Festival
  • Ice Fishing
  • Get your picture with Paul Bunyan & Babe the Blue Ox (statues)
  • Snowboard or Ski at Buena Vista Village

Places To Visit In Minnesota In Winter FAQ:

What Is The Most Beautiful Part of Minnesota?

Because of Minnesota’s diversity in landscape, there are so many beautiful places to pick from. Whether you prefer lake life, hiking, the great outdoors, or city life – there’s something here for everyone to enjoy!

What Is The Coolest Thing In Minnesota?

Minnesota is known to be the land of 10,000 lakes & their state bird is the loon. Minnesotans love being out on the water & taking advantage of all the beautiful bodies of water around them.

What Is Beautiful About Minnesota?

Between all of the lakes, pristine forests, bluff side views along the Mississippi & so much more – Minnesota is truly an underrated state with lots of beauty!

Overview: Beautiful Places To Visit In Minnesota In Winter

I hope this list has inspired you explore some of the most beautiful places to visit in Minnesota in winter. There are so many things that make each one unique, though they all have their own charm!

Which destination would you like to visit?