Your Minnesota Travel Guide: 9 Best Destinations for an Unforgettable Getaway
Make this summer unforgettable with a Minnesota family road trip! Whether your crew loves outdoor adventures, hands-on museums, or lakeside fun, our state is brimming with must-visit spots and kid-friendly adventures. This Minnesota travel guide highlights our top picks for Minnesota’s nine best summer destinations. Each destination works as a quick weekend trip or a week-long vacation.
Using our guide, explore destinations like Duluth, where Lake Superior, Canal Park, and the Great Lakes Aquarium offer endless fun. Head to Rochester for interactive play at SPARK and outdoor adventures at Quarry Hill Nature Center. In Park Rapids, walk across the headwaters of the Mississippi River at Itasca State Park. Of course, Mankato boasts scenic bike trails, Minneopa State Park’s waterfalls, and the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota. These are just a few of the top Minnesota summer getaways for families. If you’re wondering where to travel in Minnesota, keep reading this guide and plan your next trip!
Brainerd Lakes Area
The Brainerd Lakes Area is a top pick for Minnesota summer getaways for families. The area offers endless outdoor adventure and small-town charm across several communities and lakes.
In Brainerd, hit the water on Gull Lake for boating, swimming, and fishing. Kids will love Paul Bunyan Land, where they can meet the talking Paul Bunyan and explore old-fashioned rides. Nisswa is famous for its charming downtown, turtle races, and delicious ice cream shops. Summer is the perfect time to stroll its streets searching for unique finds and yummy treats. Of course, Pequot Lakes offers hiking trails and a climb up the Paul M. Thiede Fire Tower Park for breathtaking views.
Over in Crosslake, you can rent a pontoon to explore the Whitefish Chain of Lakes. Or, visit the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Recreation Area for sandy beaches and nature trails. For the best weekend getaways in Minnesota with kids, the Brainerd Lakes Area delivers endless summer fun. Whether you’re paddling, fishing, or enjoying classic cabin life, this region is a family favorite for a reason!
For more amazing ideas on how to spend a summer vacation in the Brainerd Lakes Area (including where to eat, play, and stay), read our The Ultimate Family Guide to the Brainerd Lakes Area!
Alexandria, Minnesota Travel Guide
Alexandria is one of our favorite summer destinations for kids in Minnesota! The city boasts scenic lakes, outdoor adventures, and a variety of fun, family-friendly attractions.
Start at Big Ole Central Park for a fun photo op with Alexandria’s iconic Big Ole. Then, hit the water—rent kayaks or paddleboards from the inexpensive outdoor gear library or swim at Lake Carlos State Park. Explore trails at Lake Brophy County Park or Kensington Rune Stone County Park for more outdoor fun. Kids will also love Casey’s Amusement Park, which has go-karts, bumper boats, and mini golf. Of course, animal lovers won’t want to miss Erickson’s Petting Zoo. They even offer pony rides! Want to go horseback riding with older kids and teens? Check out Silver Sage Ranch for guided, family-friendly rides.
After a day of adventure, stop by The Sugar Shack for a sweet treat with your kids. Alexandria is a top choice for Minnesota family vacations, whether you’re exploring nature or enjoying classic summer attractions on the surrounding lakes.
Mankato
Mankato is a top choice for Minnesota summer getaways for families—and it’s easy to see why! The city and its surrounding region boast incredible hiking trails, wildlife encounters, interactive museums, and family-friendly eateries for all ages.
Start your trip at Minneopa State Park, where you can hike to stunning waterfalls. After hiking, take the driving loop to spot bison roaming the 325-acre range. Then, head to Sibley Park, where kids can explore a farm-themed playground, visit friendly farm animals, and run along scenic trails. Need a break from the heat? The Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota features hands-on exhibits, including a quarry, an engineering lab, and giant tree forts for climbing. It’s one of the best museums in Minnesota!
Meanwhile, older kids will enjoy the CityArt Walking Sculpture Tour. The self-guided tour features over 30 sculptures throughout the downtown area. Along the way, pop into charming shops or grab a bite to eat.
End the day with bowling, mini-golf, or laser tag at Wow! Zone Family Entertainment Center. It will undoubtedly be a hit with everyone in your crew! Whether your family loves outdoor exploration or indoor fun, Mankato offers endless Minnesota vacation ideas for all ages this summer. It’s a fantastic destination for families looking to make the most of the season.
Mille Lacs & the Cuyuna Lakes Area
Plan your next family escape to Mille Lacs & the Cuyuna Lakes Area. Whether your family loves water, mountain biking, hiking trails, or small-town charm, this region offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. No wonder it’s a top contender for the best summer destinations in Minnesota, especially for active kids!
Swim at Father Hennepin State Park’s sandy beach. Explore the crystal-clear mine lakes of Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area by kayak or paddleboard (easily rented from Cuyuna Outfitters). Fishing families can also cast a line on Mille Lacs Lake, one of the state’s top spots for walleye. Kids will delight in reeling in a big one! Afterward, celebrate with a sweet treat from Spotlite Cafe & Ice Cream Shop.
For land-based fun, embark on a mountain biking expedition along the kid-friendly trails of Cuyuna Country. Or, climb the Kathio State Park observation tower for breathtaking views. When it’s time for a break, stroll through Crosby’s charming downtown (grab ice cream at Victual!). Of course, a visit to the Soo Line Depot Museum is a must! It’s a great place to peek into the area’s rich history. With so much to do, it’s no wonder this area is a summer favorite for many Minnesota families!
Minnesota Travel Guide to Park Rapids
Make summer unforgettable with a trip to Park Rapids. Hailed as a place where memories are made under the Northwoods sky, Park Rapids is an excellent destination for kids who love hiking, fishing, and swimming on warm summer days.
Dip your toes into adventure at Itasca State Park, home to the Mississippi River Headwaters. Kids can even hop across the rocks, marking the start of the river! Afterward, hike through towering pines along several park trails. This state park is one of the many things that make Park Rapids one of the best summer vacation spots in Minnesota with kids! With over 400 lakes, you’ll have endless swimming, boating, and fishing options. Off the water, explore the Heartland State Trail, a paved, family-friendly biking route. Alternatively, take a cruise along Wilderness Drive for stunning forest views and the opportunity to spot wildlife.
Stroll the charming shops in downtown Park Rapids, then grab a family meal in Dorset. Beloved as the “Restaurant Capital of the World,” kids can vote for their favorite bites! End the day around a campfire at a cozy lakeside resort. Whether you’re paddling, biking, or savoring small-town charm, Park Rapids is a top choice for Minnesota summer getaways for families.
Minneapolis & Saint Paul
Head to the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul for an exciting Minnesota family vacation this summer. Here, outdoor adventure meets big-city fun for all ages.
Explore the hands-on exhibits with toddlers and young kids at the Minnesota Children’s Museum. Alternatively, the Science Museum of Minnesota offers dinosaur skeletons and an Omnitheater experience for all ages. Of course, the Mill City Museum is a great spot to learn about local history! And, who can forget all the fantastic indoor activities, from shopping and mini-golf to thrilling rides and unique kid-friendly experiences, at the Mall of America?
Enjoy the warm weather and cool off at Bde Maka Ska’s sandy beach. Or, pop over to one of the lake’s two playgrounds. You can also rent bikes to enjoy the paved path around the lake. Meanwhile, Minnehaha Falls provides a stunning urban waterfall within city limits. Grab lunch at Sea Salt Eatery to dine with a view! Kids can see exotic animals and ride a carousel at the Minnesota Zoo or Como Park Zoo & Conservatory. Finally, treat kids to a ballgame at Target Field or cheer on the St. Paul Saints. As you can see, there are endless ways for families to make memories together in Minneapolis and Saint Paul! For one of the best weekend getaways in Minnesota with kids, the Twin Cities deliver adventure, culture, and summer fun.
Rochester, Minnesota Travel Guide
If you’re wondering where to travel in southern Minnesota with kids, Rochester’s mix of outdoor fun, interactive museums, and great food makes it a must-visit summer destination! With numerous kid-friendly activities to enjoy, it’s easy to see why this Minnesota city is gaining popularity among family travelers.
Start at Quarry Hill Nature Center. Here, kids can hike scenic trails, watch frogs in the pond, or explore a fossil-filled limestone quarry. Need a bit more action? Bike or rollerblade Rochester’s 85 miles of paved trails. Along the way, stop for a picnic at Silver Lake Park. You can rent paddleboats to explore the waves and spot geese. Cool off at the Soldiers Field splash pad on hot summer days, or grab an ice cream cone at Flapdoodles.
Need to head indoors? SPARK Children’s Museum offers hands-on exhibits for littles, while Air Intensity is perfect for high-energy fun for all ages. Wrap up the day with a family-friendly meal at Forager Brewery or SMOAK BBQ (kids eat free on Mondays and Tuesdays). For a fun and easy Minnesota summer getaway for families, Rochester delivers big on adventure and relaxation for the whole family!
Minnesota Travel Guide to Duluth, MN
Duluth is the ultimate destination for traveling with kids in northern Minnesota this summer! Cool off along Lake Superior’s shoreline, where the summer high hovers around a perfect 76°F. Brave kids can even dip their toes in the water!
Then, continue your adventures in Canal Park. From here, you can watch massive ships glide under the Aerial Lift Bridge before skipping rocks along the Lakewalk. Get hands-on at the Great Lakes Aquarium. Or, let little explorers roam freely and see the animals at Lake Superior Zoo. For outdoor fun, head to Park Point Beach to have some fun in the sun. It’s one of the best beaches in Minnesota! Take in sweeping city views of Duluth and the harbor from Enger Tower.
Check out Spirit Mountain’s Adventure Park alpine slide if you’re up for a thrill. And when hunger strikes, Fitger’s has family-friendly dining with lake views. After dinner, don’t miss indulging in a sweet treat from The PortLand Malt Shoppe. It’s a Duluth icon! As you can see, Duluth is packed with Minnesota vacation ideas for families this summer. Pack your bags—this Lake Superior gem is calling!
For more fun ideas on how to spend a summer vacation in Duluth (including where to eat, play, and stay), read our Complete Family Guide to Visiting Duluth this Summer!
Minnesota’s North Shore of Lake Superior
Looking for a genuinely unforgettable Minnesota summer getaway for families? Minnesota’s North Shore offers breathtaking Lake Superior views, charming small towns, and epic outdoor adventures suitable for all ages. There are several cities to choose from as you travel along Highway 61 from Duluth to Grand Portage—or plan to city-hop as you explore the 150-mile stretch. Either way, you’re bound to have an incredible journey with your kids this summer!
Begin in Two Harbors, where you’ll find museums, dining, and more. Then, continue the scenic drive up Highway 61, stopping at Gooseberry Falls State Park for kid-friendly waterfall hikes. Further up the North Shore, stop at Split Rock Lighthouse for a peek into the area’s rich history and lakefront picnics. There are several miles of scenic hikes here, too! If your family loves tree-top adventures, tackle the ropes course at North Shore Adventure Park. There are challenging courses available for ages three and up.
Of course, Grand Marais offers lakeside dining, harbor strolls, and easy access to hiking trails for all ages (like the scenic trek out to Devil’s Kettle!). At the end of Highway 61, don’t miss exploring Grand Portage State Park together. You’ll even find Minnesota’s tallest waterfall here! With endless opportunities to hike, bike, and explore, Minnesota’s North Shore of Lake Superior is one of the best summer vacation spots in the state with kids. Whether you camp under the stars or cozy up in a lakeside cabin, every moment here brings a new memory waiting to be made.
Learn everything you need to know about planning a family trip to the North Shore by reading our Guide to Visiting the North Shore of Minnesota with Kids!
Have Fun Exploring Minnesota with this Summer!
Minnesota is packed with incredible destinations that make for unforgettable family summer vacations in Minnesota. From the shores of Lake Superior to the rolling bluffs of the Mississippi River, each spot offers unique outdoor adventures, charming towns, and family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re planning a week-long road trip or searching for the best weekend getaways in Minnesota with kids, this Minnesota family travel guide has you covered. These Minnesota getaways for families provide the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement, ensuring fun for all ages this summer. No matter where you go, you’ll find summer vacation spots in Minnesota to create lasting memories with your kids.
Start planning your next adventure and experience the best of Minnesota this summer!
