Best Day Trips near the Twin Cities NW Metro

Time for a break? Maybe you need a quick trip to somewhere new…. a day trip is a great way to revitalize your outlook! Here are some of the best day trips near the Twin Cities NW Metro.

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Duluth

About 2 1/2 hour drive from the NW Metro, Duluth MN is a popular day trip! Canal Park alone can make for a days worth of activities including the famous Aerial Lift Bridge, light house, Great Lakes Aquarium and many shops, bars and restaurants. The Canal Park Brewing Co. is one of our favorites, with patio dining right next to the lake and lakewalk. Park Point beach is another great spot to enjoy the lake views and a huge sandy beach. It’s hard to believe you are in Minnesota when experiencing the views of Lake Superior.

The Glensheen Mansion is a popular tourist attraction in Duluth, a little more driving will take you to the Split Rock Light House in Two Harbors. For more information on what to do in Duluth, visit the website https://www.visitduluth.com/

Hinckley MN

About a 1 1/2 hour drive from the NW Metro, Hinckley MN has a little bit of something for everyone.

The Hinckley Fire Museum is dedicated to the history of a fire on Sept 1st, 1894 when over 400 residents were killed in a firestorm that burned 250,000 acres in about 4 hours. Don’t forget to visit Tobie’s for their famous cinnamon and caramel rolls!

Banning State Park is located just north of Hinckley MN and is one of the most beautiful parks for hiking on a day trip. The Kettle River runs through the park and you will come across ruins of the old Banning Sandstone Quarry. Fall is an especially great time to visit this park as the trees are stunning!

The Grand Casino Hinckley is another option for a quick stop. For more information on events and things to do in Hinckley, visit the Hinckley Convention and Visitor Bureau website.

Lake Mille Lacs

Located about 1 hour from the NW Metro – the beautiful Lake Mille Lacs is one of the largest lake in Minnesota at over 135,000 acres. Drive the Lake Mille Lacs Scenic Byway which is a 68 mile trip around the lake, offering many interesting stops along the way.

Father Hennepin State Park is located on Lake Mille Lacs has a beautiful sandy beach, walking trails, and deer that are very used to visitors.

The towns of Wahkon and Isle on either side of Father Hennepin State Park have many interesting shops, bars and restaurants.

Further up 169 near Onamia, Eddy’s Resort has a large restaurant and patio overlooking the lake and boat rental. If you are looking for an overnight stay, the hotel has rooms overlooking the lake. Kathio State Park is located right across Hwy 169 from Eddies. Grand Casino Mille Lacs is and the Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Trading Post are also located in Onamia

What is your favorite day trip from the Twin Cities NW Metro?