The 12 Best Places To Visit In Minnesota In 2018

Now that 2018 is upon us, it’s time to start making some New Year’s resolutions. But instead of the typical fitness and financial goals, why not try for something a little more unique? The coming year is a perfect one for getting out of the house and exploring some of Minnesota’s nooks and crannies. These 12 spots around the states are full of food, fun, and relaxation – just what you need to make the next year truly unforgettable. Read on to learn about the 12 best places to visit in 2018.

The Salt Cave Minnesota/Facebook

As Minnesota's first salt cave, the Salt Cave Minnesota has been among the most unique places to go since it opened in 2010. It features a peaceful and relaxing cave made entirely of salt, which is said to have therapeutic properties. Whether you visit or meditation or yoga, it's sure to be a 2018 activity you won't soon forget.

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Extreme Sandbox/Facebook

Extreme Sandbox is a little more wild than a salt cave, but it is certainly worth a visit. The attraction is likened to an adult sandbox where you can fulfill your dream of operating heavy equipment. Whether you choose a backhoe or an excavator, you're sure to have a blast at this amazing attraction. Even better: it's open year-round!

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Spirit Mountain/Facebook

Many people don't realize that Spirit Mountain in Duluth is open all year long. When the sun melts all the snow, Minnesota's skiing and snowboarding haven turns into an adventure park that is fun for all ages. Among the most exciting attractions is the Timber Twister, a speedy coaster that offers sweeping views of forest and river.

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Trestle Inn Food and Saloon/Facebook

This restaurant is so hidden that even many locals aren't aware of its existence. But if you're ever in the area, you need to visit. It's surrounded by thick northern forest on all sides, and it's a perfect spot for snowmobilers in the winter. But all year long, you can enjoy a delicious meal in a welcoming setting any time you stop at the Trestle Inn.

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Michael Hicks/Flickr

Most of us know of Munsinger Gardens in St. Cloud or the rose garden in Duluth. But did you know Minnesota has a Japanese garden, too? It's on the grounds of Normandale Community College, and it's truly beautiful. Enjoy interesting architectural elements in this large garden designed with traditional Japanese gardens in mind.

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Askew View Photo/Flickr

Minneopa State Park is nothing short of magical. From the rushing waterfalls to the charming stone bridge, it's one of the most picturesque parks in the whole state. If you're up for it, walk down the long set of stairs to the river below. A path leads to the base of the falls, where you can enjoy even more gorgeous photo opportunities in the small caves carved into the rock.

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Justin Meissen/Flickr

Located on the North Shore of Lake Superior, Iona's Beach is famous for two reasons. First, it is made up of pink rocks that give the beach an out-of-this-world look. But even more otherworldly is the sound the rocks make when waves wash ashore. The gentle tinkling of the stones makes a music that you have to hear to believe.

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Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

Minnesota's newest state park has been a century in the making. It explores the mining history of the Iron Range by taking visitors on a tour through Minnesota's oldest and deepest mine, which started way back in the late 1800s. Visitors will learn about the equipment and processes involved in mining and can even venture hundreds of feet below the ground to see a real mine.

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Northern Rail Traincar Inn/Facebook

Have you ever wanted to sleep in a train car? Add Northern Rail Traincar Inn to your 2018 bucket list, and you can. This charming inn is made up of authentic railroad boxcars equipped with all the amenities you'd expect from any other hotel. If you're headed up to the North Shore, it is an ideal place to rest your head.

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Minnesota Zip Lines & Adventures/Facebook

Located in Henderson, Minnesota, Kerfoot Canopy Tours take guests on a journey above the Minnesota River Valley. A tour consists of many different zip lines, a suspension bridge, and even a climb up a tall tower. It's the perfect excursion for thrill seekers looking for something new. The tour guides will guide you every step of the way. All you have to do is enjoy the view.

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Cannon Valley Trail/Facebook

Are you into hiking or biking? Then you'll love a visit to southern Minnesota's Cannon Valley Trail. It's beautiful all year, but the trail is especially stunning in the warmer months. Why? Because the lush foliage that surrounds the trail joins to create an incredible tunnel of trees. Make a point to visit in the summer of 2018, and you'll be blown away by the beauty of this popular trail.

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Will H/TripAdvisor

Here's another little-known beach that is well worth visiting. On the North Shore, Black Beach looks like nothing you'll find in any other part of Minnesota. The color comes from dumping in the water many years ago. While unfortunate, the result is nothing short of stunning. The contrast of the black sand, blue water, and red rock formations make Black Beach a must-see in 2018.

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Minnesota is home to so many incredible attractions that it’s hard to choose which ones to visit. Where would you like to go in the coming year? Are there any spots you think should have made the list? Let us know in the comments below!