Midwest Best: Our Favorite Day Trips and Weekend Getaways

We adore Minneapolis, and sometimes we like to venture out to the greater Midwest.

Here are our favorite spots for quick trips and mini vacations.

North Shore, Minnesota

Why?

Visiting the North Shore is one of the best ways to marvel at Lake Superior, the largest freshwater lake in the world by area and the 2nd largest freshwater lake by volume. It’s also a great opportunity to unplug in one of the many beach towns or secluded cabins around the area.

Our favorite spots:

Taking a long hike on Superior Hiking Trail, after stopping at New Scenic Cafe on the drive up.

The Fisherman’s Daughter in Grand Marais is a perfect place for lunch. It’s woman-run and woman-owned, and serves the freshest fish imaginable on the shore of Lake Superior. During COVID the interior has been shifted to a marketplace, the perfect place to grab some snacks or gifts.

Mt. Josephine, which is part of the Sawtooth Mountains, a range of large hills that are over 1.2 billion years old and made of volcanic rock. A fair warning, Mt. Joesphine is one of the area’s more challenging challenging peaks. The hike is seldom busy, and the summit allows for stunning views of Canada.

Galena, Illinois

Why?

Galena is within driving distance to Chicago, but the charming blend of European style architecture in the picturesque downtown with the rolling hills outside make it feel far, far away.

Our Favorite Spots:

There’s relaxing, and then there’s 6,800 acres of land and 63 holes of golf all situated on the beautiful Lake Galena relaxing. Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa is an ideal spot for prioritizing access to trails and the outdoors while still getting to dine and relax in style.

If you like gifts, decor, or shoes- and who doesn’t- then Honest Joe’s Trading Post is a perfect place to check out. The eclectic mix of shopping makes for some inspired purchasing.

Galena Canning Company is a local favorite for all kinds of preserves, pickles, and other canned goods. They make for excellent vacation snacks- or souvenirs for loved ones.

Decorah, Iowa

Why?

This college town in Northeastern Iowa is smack dab in the stunning driftless region (which created features like Dunning Springs, seen above) and prides itself on supporting local farmers- meaning there’s plenty of great options for food and drink.

Our Favorite Spots:

Beer fans will know the name Toppling Goliath well, which was founded in Decorah.. But they might not know about Pulpit Rock Brewing, the local favorite brewery that tends towards the experimental beers. The cozy taproom is a great place to hang out and do a tasting.

Heritage Farm is run by Seed Savers Exchange, one of the largest organizations in the United States committed to saving seeds and preserving biodiversity. Heritage Farm itself is an idyllic 890 acre farm that features events, tours, an apple orchard of over 900 varietals, and a store that sells the heirloom breeds they grow. It’s a fascinating place to go for the plant lover.

Hotel Winneshiek is a historic hotel that has hosted politicians, presidents, and royalty. The Hotel exudes traditional elegance, including the octagonal rotunda, terrazzo floors, and stained glass ceilings. The bar makes a great place to grab a cocktail and take in the history.

Taylors Falls, Minnesota

why?

Taylors Falls is set on the stunning Saint Croix River, and is a perfect place to take in the fall colors. It’s also geologically interesting- the glacial potholes of Taylors Falls were formed in the Ice Age when whirlpools knocked stone around enough to burrow into the land.

Our Favorite Spots:

Hiking at Interstate State Park to take in the stunning scenery.

Not interested in hiking, but want to experience the river all the same? Taylors Falls Recreation offers both boat tours and canoeing. Visit their website to make a reservation of your own, but be warned- they go quickly!

Visit the nearby town of Saint Croix Falls on the Wisconsin side of the river for all the small town charm.