Celebrities You Didn’t Know Were from Minnesota
Just a short drive from downtown Minneapolis, the iconic First Avenue nightclub pulses with the legacy of Prince, one of Minnesota’s most celebrated musical exports. Located in the city’s vibrant Warehouse District, First Avenue is more than a music venue; it’s a cultural institution where Prince famously performed and filmed scenes for his movie Purple Rain. Visitors can soak up the electric energy of the place by catching a live show or simply admiring the graffiti-covered exterior walls, each star bearing the name of a legendary performer who has graced the stage. The venue’s intimate setting and storied past make it a pilgrimage site for fans wanting to connect with the roots of Minnesota’s rich music scene, especially on crisp, cool autumn nights when the city’s nightlife comes alive.
Heading northeast of Duluth by about 30 minutes, you’ll find the North Shore Scenic Drive along Lake Superior, a route that winds past Gooseberry Falls State Park. While this park is famed for its stunning waterfalls cascading over ancient volcanic rock, it also happens to be near the childhood home of Charles M. Schulz, the creator of Peanuts. Visitors can hike the moderate 3.5-mile loop trail that passes several falls including the main Gooseberry Falls, which drops 70 feet in a dramatic series of cascades. The park’s blend of rugged cliffs, towering pines, and lakeshore vistas makes it a natural backdrop that undoubtedly inspired Schulz’s affection for the outdoors and small-town life depicted in his cartoons. Spring and early summer offer the best visiting conditions when wildflowers bloom and the falls are at their fullest.
Venturing to the southwestern edge of the state, near the border town of Worthington, lies the Nobles County Historical Society Museum. Though the town might seem off the beaten path, it’s the childhood home of actor and comedian Tom Hanks. The museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the local history and culture that shaped many Minnesotan talents. Exhibits include period artifacts from rural life and immigrant communities. Visiting here presents a quiet, reflective experience to appreciate the modest Midwestern roots behind a globally recognized star. The best time to visit is during the annual Worthington Heritage Days in late July, when the town celebrates its history with parades and live demonstrations.
Farther north, about 90 minutes from St. Cloud, sits the Charles A. Lindbergh State Park near Little Falls. This park honors the early aviator Charles Lindbergh, who was born in the area and famously completed the first solo nonstop transatlantic flight. The park features a nature trail looping through pine forests, wetlands, and the Mississippi River floodplain, offering a peaceful hike of around two miles. Besides its natural beauty, the park includes a historic home and museum dedicated to Lindbergh’s life and achievements. Visiting in late spring or early fall provides pleasant weather and excellent birdwatching opportunities alongside a deep dive into the pioneering spirit embodied by Lindbergh.
In downtown Minneapolis, the Walker Art Center offers a surprising connection to Minnesota’s literary scene, including author F. Scott Fitzgerald, who spent time in the state and drew inspiration from its culture. The museum’s contemporary art exhibits often explore themes of identity and place, echoing Fitzgerald’s exploration of the American experience. After immersing yourself in the galleries, walk across the street to the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, home to the famous “Spoonbridge and Cherry” sculpture, providing an iconic photo op. Visiting in summer allows for open-air enjoyment of the gardens, while winter’s snowy backdrop gives the sculptures a magical, ethereal quality.
About 45 minutes south of Minneapolis lies the historic town of Faribault, where the Shattuck-St. Mary’s School nurtured actor and writer Jane Hamilton, known for her novels rooted in Midwestern life. The campus itself features impressive Gothic Revival architecture and beautifully maintained grounds perfect for a leisurely stroll. The town also boasts the Faribault Woolen Mill, where visitors can witness traditional textile production, an industry that shaped much of the region’s economy and culture. Fall is a particularly charming time here, when the changing leaves add a warm palette to the historic buildings and countryside.
Finally, along the Mississippi River in the city of St. Paul, the Fitzgerald Theater stands as a tribute to the enduring legacy of F. Scott Fitzgerald, Minnesota’s native son. This historic venue, about a 10-minute drive from downtown Minneapolis, hosts a range of live performances, including radio shows, concerts, and plays. The theater’s elegant interior and excellent acoustics provide a perfect setting to experience Minnesota’s ongoing contribution to the arts. Touring the theater on a clear winter evening, when the city sparkles with holiday lights, offers a uniquely festive atmosphere that celebrates local talent and heritage in equal measure.