According to forum posts, Minneapolis offers a variety of outdoor activities, especially during the summer. Travelers have highlighted options like visiting the Minnehaha Falls, biking or walking around the lakes, and enjoying the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. For water-related activities, Lake Minnetonka is recommended for its beauty and recreational opportunities.

Some travelers suggested exploring cultural and historical sites such as the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, which offers free admission. Additionally, the Mill City Museum and the historic James J. Hill House provide insights into the local history. For music enthusiasts, a visit to Paisley Park, the home and studio of Prince, is a must.

For those willing to venture outside the city, forum users recommended day trips to nearby towns and natural attractions. The Great River Road along the Mississippi offers scenic views and charming towns. Duluth is also a popular destination for its waterfront, parks, and cultural offerings, making it a worthwhile day trip or overnight stay.

According to forum posts, travelers recommended exploring areas like Winona along the Mississippi River, Amish country around Preston, and the towns of Lanesboro and Red Wing for quaint B&B accommodations and lodges. These areas offer proximity to scenic drives and local attractions, making them ideal for a relaxed stay.

For a more luxurious stay, travelers have called out Grand View Lodge in Nisswa and Maddens Resort on Gull Lake. These resorts offer a variety of accommodations and amenities including golf courses, spa services, and water activities. They are praised for providing a quintessential Northern Minnesota experience, perfect for family vacations or romantic getaways.

Some travelers suggested staying in the historic town of Stillwater. The area offers charming B&Bs, proximity to antique shops, and scenic views of the St. Croix River, providing a picturesque backdrop for visitors seeking a mix of relaxation and local exploration.

According to forum posts, travelers looking for scenic routes in Minnesota have several options. One recommended route is from Omaha to Duluth, with suggested stops in Sioux Falls, Albert Lea, and New Ulm, which is noted for its German heritage and attractions like Schell's Brewery. Another scenic recommendation is the drive from Bismarck to Minneapolis, with a detour to Duluth, which offers picturesque views along Lake Superior.

Some travelers said that for those wishing to avoid urban traffic, alternative highways provide a quieter travel experience. For example, Highway 59 south to Detroit Lakes, then Highway 10 down to St. Cloud, and Highway 15 to Iowa are suggested for avoiding Minneapolis. Additionally, Highway 212 is recommended for a rural drive from South Dakota to Duluth, passing through quaint towns and offering a more relaxed journey.

For many users, Minnesota's lakes are a major draw. Itasca State Park and Lake Superior, especially near Duluth, are highly recommended for their natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The North Shore along Lake Superior is particularly praised for its stunning landscapes and is considered a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

According to forum posts, travelers highly recommend visiting Gooseberry Falls and Split Rock Lighthouse. Gooseberry Falls offers an accessible hike to beautiful waterfalls, while Split Rock Lighthouse provides a scenic trail leading to an iconic shoreline view.

Some travelers suggested using Grand Marais as a base for exploring the North Shore. It allows convenient access to various hiking trails, scenic drives along Lake Superior, and local dining. Grand Marais is also less than 70 miles from Gooseberry Falls, making day trips feasible.

For hiking enthusiasts, forum users mentioned the Oberg Mountain loop and the hike to High Falls in Tettegouche State Park as rewarding experiences. These trails offer stunning views and manageable distances for a variety of skill levels.