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8 of the Most Beautiful Places to See in Minnesota

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Nicknamed as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes”, Minnesota not only offers spectacular sights but also a great selection of natural parks and unique shops and restaurants. See the list below to find out the most beautiful places in Minnesota.

1. Split Rock Lighthouse 

This 100-year-old monument is considered to be one of the most picture-perfect lighthouses in the entire United States. It is located just south-west of Silver Bay and has been listed as a National Historic Landmark. Devastating wreckage has prompted the locals to create a lighthouse along the North Shore. From the early 1900s until the late 1960s, the Split Rock Lighthouse has served as a beacon of light for all seafarers. It has been such a great tourist spot for locals and visitors, even having a museum dedicated to the history of the lighthouse.

2. Lake Itasca

Lake Itasca, Minnesota
Photo Credits: Paul Radomski

This small lake lies in Clearwater County and is the home of the University of Minnesota’s Itasca Biological Station and Laboratories campus. It draws its popularity as the headwaters of the Mississippi River and the abundance of game fish. Being one of the most important natural locations in Minnesota, tourists and locals also venture into the nearby Itasca State Park that offers recreational activities and camping.

3. Minnehaha Falls

Minnehaha Falls, Minnesota
Photo Credits: m01229

This waterfall has been put to the spotlight through the work of a New England poet, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. He used this stunning body of water as his subject for the “ Song of Hiawatha.” Because of the gained fame, Minnehaha falls has drawn tourists from everywhere in the country. Its accessibility and serenity, people have come here to relax and be one with nature. If you’d like to go down the bottom of the falls, you may use the staircase descend and take a swim. There are also benches situated in the area for you to rest on. For times that you’re feeling adventurous, you may take a trail further down to see the pools and the beach nearby.

4. Minneapolis

A hub for the arts, Minneapolis is a must-visit for anyone who loves to get a dose of some art and culture. Minneapolis, the largest city in the state, offers a variety of things to see and do. Not only is it particularly known for its theater, but this city is also big on sports. Watch games played by all the city’s national teams in the arenas and stadiums scattered across the downtown Minneapolis. One should not miss the opportunity to learn about this city’s rich history and its music scene. Visit the Minneapolis Institute of Art, The Walker Art Center, Sculpture Garden, and the Basilica of St. Mary.

5. St. Paul’s Cathedral

St. Paul’s Cathedral, Minnesota
Photo Credits: Flickr | Paul Weimer

Considered to be one of the most beautiful buildings in the whole state, The cathedral of Saint Paul is listed as a landmark on the National Register of Historic Buildings. With its unique copper dome, it gives you a glimpse of the cathedrals in Europe. It was also designed to give the devotees an unobstructed view of the podium. The cathedral, which is roughly 200 ft in height and 70 ft in width it can hold more than 3,000 people. Inside the church, you can see statues of the famous Catholic apostles such as Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John in all of the four corners of the cathedral.

6. Como Park Zoo & Conservatory

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, Minnesota
Photo Credits: Flickr | Dan Anderson

This recreational facility in St Paul attracts a little over 2 million people every year, making it one of the most popular tourist spots in the city. Established in the late 1890s, Como Park Zoo has been a source of fun and entertainment for the locals and tourists. It features a zoo, an amusement park, a conservatory, a gold course, and a pool. Admission is free to enjoy one of the most beautiful places to see in Minnesota. It’s a way for the government to promote how to take care of wildlife and nature. With all these free and amazing amenities, it makes for such a great family bonding place.

7. Stone Arch Bridge

Stone Arch Bridge, Minnesota
Photo Credits: Flickr | Wayne Moran

A National Historic Engineering Landmark, the Stone Arch Bridge was built in the early 1880s by a known railroad baron, James J. Hill. For years it has served as a passage bridge that allowed the movement of people and commodities to and across the river. This historical landmark is made of granite and limestone, both of which were locally harvested. It has a little over 24 arches making it a great spot to take photos. According to the locals, the best spot to have a great view of the bridge is from the nearby father Hennepin Bluff Park. Another bonus is that it is overlooking the beautiful St. Anthony Falls.

8. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minnesota
Photo Credits: Fodor’s Travel Guide

Situated in the far north of the state, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness remains one of the most visited geographical areas in all of the United States. It is accessible from Grand Marais or Ely and is a great place to do some fishing or canoeing. This beautiful area also has a bunch of hiking trails and campsites scattered across the wilderness.

There is an abundance of wildlife in the area, from the bears to the bobcats, to deers and wolves. As one of the most beautiful places to see in Minnesota, this million-acre expanse will surely feel like you are in the jungle. You can opt to choose a canoe to go around, which the locals recommend. You can also pop a tent and enjoy the tranquil and serenity of the environment. It’s no wonder this place belongs in the list of the most beautiful places to see in Minnesota.

Minnesota will surely give you the time of your life. Explore the rich history of the Mississipi River and marvel at the abundance of wildlife. The local activities in Minnesota are a great escape from the busy city! Drive down and check out the serene and scenic places to visit the lively and rich music scene. Don’t forget to take note of the most beautiful places to see when you the land of the Twin Cities!

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