Minnesota: the Land of 10,000 Lakes. As snowbirds settling back for the Minnesota summer, you’re ready for some outdoor activities that only Minnesota has to offer! In summer, it’s not as hard as you’d think to take a fun trip when you’re on a budget either.

Many of the great travel experiences in Minnesota can’t be bought anyway; hiking amid old-growth white pines, paddling through bluff country, listening to loons in the Boundary Waters. Here’s a list of a few of Minnesota’s summer hotspots that might pique your interest as you settle back in for the summer. Whether you’re interested in the busy city life or a slower pace, Minnesota has it all. We’ll start in the metro area and head north with this list. Buckle up and enjoy the ride!

U.S Bank Stadium

Home of the Minnesota Vikings, this stadium was just completed in 2016. This stadium isn’t simply a location; it’s an epicenter of excitement and experiences. But the stadium is not just the home of the Minnesota Vikings, it’s a facility that will host major national and international events that create economical, fiscal, and social benefits to the region. There’s always something to do at the U.S Bank Stadium!

Museum Central

If sports aren’t your cup of tea, the Twin Cities Metro area is packed with museums. Check out the Science Museum of Minnesota, Minneapolis Institute of Art, Walker Art Center, Children’s Museum, or either of the zoos: Minnesota Zoo or The Como Zoo.

Munsinger Gardens  in St.Cloud

These gardens are St. Cloud’s pride and joy and a must-see along your northern adventure. The site was originally a sawmill. In 1915 the city purchased the area to use as a neighborhood park. Located along the Mississippi River, visitors to Munsinger Gardens can enjoy the peace and tranquility of this garden. The garden takes advantage of its shady location by featuring mainly shade-loving plants; including a wide variety of Hostas and ferns. Visitors can also enjoy the many geese and ducks that have made the garden their spring and summer home.

Named after a former superintendent of parks, Munsinger Gardens continues to be a jewel of the city.

Brainerd, Minnesota 

The Brainerd Lakes Area: Explore It. Live It. Whether you are looking for a Minnesota adventure or for relaxation, you will discover endless options year-round in the Brainerd lakes country. World-class golfing, fishing and boating, biking, snowmobiling, shopping, even bird watching or kayaking are just some of the reasons people choose to visit the Brainerd Lakes Area.

Duluth, Minnesota

Duluth has it all: museums, water sports, nature walks, culture, the North Shore, and history. As a major port city, Duluth is a place like no other. It has an endless horizon where the largest freshwater lake in the world meets the sky. Enjoy the rocky cliffs and pristine forests where you’ll find miles of trails to explore. Duluth is a thriving community where you can take in a show, explore nature, enjoy a meal, and stay in comfort no matter where your plans take you.

Regardless of what your Minnesota summer looks like, you’ll have no shortage of excitement! Whether you’re looking for some city action or to get in touch with nature, Minnesota has what you’re looking for! If you call Minnesota home or if you’re just visiting, you’ll fall in love with what we have to offer! Welcome to Minnesota Nice!