Can you think of a better way to enjoy Minnesota’s stunning beauty than to meander down an open road? We came up with this list of 10 of the best scenic drives in Minnesota. I found many of the best scenic drives near me. There are certain to be some near you, too – and you’ll definitely get to see a lot of hidden and popular corners of the Land of 10,000 Lakes as you travel.

1. State Highway 96
GSankary/Flickr
Highway 96 stretches from just north of Stillwater to just north of White Bear Lake. It's a great drive for those in the Twin Cities who want a scenic drive but don't want to go too far. The road is relatively straight, leading through thick trees before it curves along the northern shore of White Bear Lake.
2. U.S. Highway 61
Jerry Huddleston/Flickr
We couldn't do a list of backroads without including Highway 61, which is one of the best driving roads in Minnesota. This is the essential Minnesota road trip. It tracks the ​​Great River Road along the Mississippi River from the Twin Cities almost to the Iowa border. If you really want to make a day of it, stop at some of the charming small towns along the way.
3. Gunflint Trail Scenic Byway
Tony Webster/Flickr
This is another Minnesota classic that many have driven at least once in their lifetime. And it's no wonder. The 55-mile route passes through thick northern forests and leads to lakes both large and small. Lucky travelers get to see wildlife like moose and deer. It's particularly beautiful in winter:

4. Waters of the Dancing Sky Scenic Byway
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
This scenic route passes along the Canadian border. Its name refers to the aurora borealis, which makes frequent appearances this far north. Along the drive, travelers will find lakes, trees, and plenty of animal life. for more information.
5. Apple Blossom Drive Scenic Byway
Kurt Roskopf/Google Reviews
In southern Minnesota, this backroad takes travelers along the bluffs above the Mississippi River. From your window, you'll be able to see the sparkling river as it rushes past the river cities on its banks. The view is truly unbeatable.

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6. Minnesota River Valley National Scenic Byway
Minnesota River Valley National Scenic Byway/Facebook
A drive on this scenic byway is a journey through Minnesota's long natural history. Designated in 1996, the road crosses many cities and towns from Henderson to Browns Valley.
7. Highway 210
formulanone/Flickr
This lesser known backroad bisects Minnesota from Duluth to the North Dakota border. The route means travelers can stop to explore Brainerd or Fergus Falls. It also passes through Otter Tail County, Minnesota's most lake-filled county. There will be plenty to do and see if you take this route.
8. Lady Slipper Scenic Byway
Lady Slipper Scenic Byway/Facebook
This northern Minnesota byway starts near the headwaters of the Mississippi River. Then, it passes through the thick woods of Chippewa National Forest. For those who want an off-the-beaten-track experience, you can't do much better than this backroad drive.
9. Edge of the Wilderness National Scenic Byway
stpaulgirl/Flickr
Here's an hourlong drive that will leave you pining for more. Traveling the 47 miles of the Edge of the Wilderness National Scenic Byway means hugging tight curves and climbing steep hills. The incredible views of lake and forest make it 100 percent worth it.
10. Glacial Ridge Trail Scenic Byway
Glacial Ridge Scenic Byway/Facebook
Our final backroad is a long one. Glacial Ridge Trail Scenic Byway is 220 miles of road across the ridges etched into the land by ancient glaciers. The route contains a couple of loops side trips, but they're all worth it for the chance to see just how diverse Minnesota's landscape truly is.

These are just 10 of the best scenic drives in Minnesota. There are plenty more backroads in Minnesota. What is your favorite? Join the conversation in the comments! If you prefer a road trip to a scenic drive, embark on one or more of these 10 unforgettable road trips in Minnesota.

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best scenic drives in minnesota

Beth Price-Williams | April 13, 2020

What are the best roadside attractions in Minnesota?

To see some of the best roadside attractions in Minnesota, head off on the Minnesota Roadside Attractions Road Trip. The epic road trip spans over 400 miles and will take you to some of the most unique roadside attractions in the state. Stop at the World’s Largest Crow in Belgrade; see Otto the Otter in Fergus Falls, and snap photos of the World’s Largest Loon in Vergas.

You might also want to stop at Nyberg Sculpture Park, another top roadside attraction. The eclectic sculpture park features such works of art as an oversized foot, a 10-foot tall elk, and a 2,500-pound elephant.

Are there any other scenic backroads to drive along in Minnesota?

Looking for "backroads near me?" Embark on the Scenic Road Trip that will take you to all seven of Minnesota’s natural wonders. You’ll visit such epic natural destinations as Jay Cooke State Park, Black Beach, and Voyageurs National Park. The sensational road trip spans just over 240 miles, and you can drive it in close to five hours (not including time for stopping and visiting each destination).

If you’ve got a few days, you might want to drive the 300-mile Minnesota River Valley National Scenic Byway. The breathtaking scenic byway winds through western and central Minnesota, passing Granite Falls and Sleepy Eye, parks, and popular monuments.

Are there other similar things to do in Minnesota when you have a free afternoon?

Gas up the car for a leisurely drive to some of the best lighthouses in Minnesota next time you have a free afternoon or day. The beautiful drive will take you to several lighthouses, including the Duluth North Pier Light, the Duluth South Breakwater Light, and the Two Harbors Light Station.

For a day trip, you can’t go wrong by visiting Lindstrom, considered “America’s Little Sweden.” Take your appetite, too, when you visit the enchanting town that’s home to Grandpa Cheesecake, Lindstrom Baker, and Northwoods Roasterie.

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