The Fairytale Road Trip That'll Lead You To Some Of Minnesota’s Most Magical Places
By Betsy Rathburn|Updated on November 24, 2022(Originally published November 19, 2022)
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Betsy Rathburn
Author
Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.
There are so many places to explore in Minnesota that it’s sometimes hard to decide where to go. You can hop in your car and head in any direction, and you’re sure to find some amazing places. But today, we want to help you discover some of Minnesota’s most magical places. From nature areas to human-made destinations, you’ll find plenty to enjoy on this lovely Minnesota hidden gems road trip. You’re sure to find that there are no places quite like this place… get in the car and let’s go! After all, it’s not every day you’re able to show up to all of these places in one fell swoop, so let’s get started:
This road trip covers about 300 miles in southeastern Minnesota. To give yourself plenty of time to see the sights, we recommend following the route over a couple of days. The route begins in Waite Park and ends in the tiny town of Preston, though you are of course free to jump in wherever you’d like.
Check out the full route on Google Maps. You can also alter the route as you see fit for your needs, wants, and desires. This could be a one-day trip or a many-day trip — it's all up to you!
1. Munsinger Gardens - St. Cloud
Munsinger Gardens, Riverside Drive Southeast, St. Cloud, MN, USA
The first stop on this fairytale road trip is at Munsinger Gardens in St. Cloud. As soon as you arrive, you’ll see why this is one of the city’s top destinations. It consists of two lovely gardens along the Mississippi River, which include colorful flowerbeds, a pond, trees, and a picturesque gazebo. It’s a lovely place to catch a few tranquil minutes in nature. Come and see why this is one of our favorite picks among the most magical places in Minnesota. It's got something special about it that you'll notice right away!
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2. Quarry Park and Nature Preserve - Waite Park
Quarry Park and Nature Preserve, 1802 Co Rd 137, Waite Park, MN 56387, USA
Just outside of St. Cloud, the small city of Waite Park is home to a great, little-known destination. Quarry Park and Nature Preserve is a 683-acre park situated around a series of old quarries. Several of the quarries are now popular swimming destinations. But even if you don’t swim, the picturesque paths around the cliff-lined quarries are absolutely beautiful. This is a central Minnesota hidden gem and one that everyone should visit at least once. This awe-inspiring hidden park in Minnesota is one you'll find yourself wanting to return to again and again.
Leaving the St. Cloud area, your next destination is in Minneapolis. The Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden & Bird Sanctuary is an absolutely beautiful oasis in the middle of the city. It’s a 15-acre garden teeming with wildlife. Not only will you see colorful wildflowers, but you also have the chance to catch a glimpse of more than 100 different bird species. Paths through the park make it easy to spot the flowers, birds, and butterflies you’re likely to see here.
The last garden on the road trip is found on the grounds of Normandale Community College. It’s a Japanese-style garden complete with a lovely stream and pond, blooming trees, and picturesque bridges. Though it’s in the middle of a busy city - and on a busy college campus - you won’t notice it as you stroll along the serene trails. This stunning example of fairytale places in Minnesota is sure to make you believe in magic again.
Next up, the route leads south, to a tiny town called Welch, Minnesota. Here, you’ll find the lovely waters of the Cannon River as it meanders through the state. One of the best ways to enjoy it is by tubing the river. Welch Mill Tubing, Canoeing, and Kayaking is a river outfitter that’ll help you make the most of this beautiful area. Rent a tube and go cruising down the tree-lined river. You’ll get to enjoy scenic southern Minnesota and keep cool while doing so. It’s downright magical. If you've never been on a Minnesota river float trip, you've never lived.
Next up, on Minnesota’s eastern border with Wisconsin, is beautiful Lake Pepin. Lake Pepin is the largest lake on the Mississippi River! It’s also a wonderful place to visit if you’re a fan of lakeside recreation. Beaches along the lake provide plenty of space for a swim, and those with boats enjoy sailing or fishing on the water. If you have a kayak, that’s also a great choice for this stop.
7. Great River Bluffs State Park - Winona
Great River Bluffs State Park, Kipp Drive, Winona, MN, USA
Another way to enjoy the Mississippi River is by visiting Great River Bluffs State Park. But instead of dipping your toes into the water, why not climb high above it? Paths at this gorgeous park take you high above the Mississippi River as you climb the tree-covered bluffs that rise over it. Amazing views make this a true Minnesota gem - and a perfect stop on a fairytale road trip.
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8. Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park - Preston
Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park, 21071 County Rd 118, Preston, MN 55965, USA
Finally, we end our road trip at Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park. One half of the park is the historic town of Forestville, where you can still browse old-fashioned buildings to see how people lived a century ago. And the other half is an amazing nature area centered on a fascinating cave. Take a tour into the cave to experience the magical waters of the underground Turquoise Lake. Sound good? We think yes! Your inner adventurer will thank you. Profusely.
There you have it – a wonder-filled, totally awesome hidden gems road trip in Minnesota. What do you think? What other magical places in Minnesota would you add? Did we miss any? Let us know in the comments!
