Exploring Minnesota by Train, Boat, or Hot Air Balloon
Just a short train ride from downtown Minneapolis, the North Shore Scenic Railroad offers a charming way to explore Minnesota’s rugged Lake Superior coastline. Departing from Duluth, about two and a half hours northeast of the Twin Cities, this historic rail line traces the old Duluth, Missabe and Iron Range Railway route. The trains glide past dense northern forest, rocky cliffs, and the vast waters of Lake Superior. Travelers can choose from different excursions, including a leisurely fall colors ride or a summer trip highlighting the shore’s natural beauty. The vintage steam and diesel engines, combined with knowledgeable guides, create a nostalgic experience that’s both educational and visually stunning, especially in autumn when the maples blaze in fiery hues.
Venture a little further north along the shore to Two Harbors, a quaint lakeside town roughly 30 miles northeast of Duluth. From here, you can embark on a boat tour of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, a collection of 22 islands scattered across Lake Superior. The boat trips offer close-up views of dramatic sea caves, towering sandstone cliffs, and historic lighthouses like the Split Rock Lighthouse perched high on the cliffs. The crisp air and sparkling water make summer the ideal season to set sail, but early fall also rewards visitors with fewer crowds and spectacular sunsets over the water. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot bald eagles, harbor seals, and migrating songbirds, making the boat excursions a delight for nature lovers.
In the heart of the Twin Cities, the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory in St. Paul provides an extraordinary blend of lush indoor gardens and a small zoo. It’s less than 10 minutes from downtown St. Paul and offers a peaceful escape year-round. Within the grand glass conservatory, visitors wander through tropical rainforests, desert landscapes, and vibrant flower displays. Adjacent to the conservatory is the zoo, home to polar bears, gorillas, and a variety of native Minnesota wildlife. This spot exemplifies Minnesota’s commitment to conservation and education, making it perfect for families and those curious about the region’s flora and fauna. Winter visits are magical as the conservatory becomes a warm haven of greenery amid the cold city.
For a change of pace high above the state’s forests and lakes, consider booking a hot air balloon ride out of Stillwater, a charming town on the St. Croix River about 30 minutes northeast of Minneapolis. Known for its historic Main Street and scenic river views, Stillwater is a favorite launch point for balloonists. Floating gently over the patchwork of farmland, river bends, and dense woods, passengers enjoy panoramic views that stretch for miles. Spring and early fall offer the best weather conditions, with calm winds and crisp air enhancing the tranquility of the flight. The experience is unforgettable, especially at sunrise when the mist still clings to the valleys below and the first rays of light turn the landscape golden.
Further north near Brainerd, roughly three hours northwest of Minneapolis, the Paul Bunyan State Trail welcomes visitors eager to explore Minnesota’s vast outdoors on a different kind of boat—the pedal or electric rental variety. This 120-mile paved trail winds through forests, wetlands, and charming small towns. In Brainerd itself, the trail passes through beautiful Crow Wing State Park, where you can hike along the 3.8-mile Akeley Trail for a moderate trek through mixed hardwoods, culminating at a scenic overlook of the Mississippi River. The Paul Bunyan Trail is especially popular in summer and early fall, offering cyclists and walkers a chance to experience the state’s Northwoods charm with minimal elevation change and scenic river views.
On the western border of Minnesota, the Minnesota River Valley Scenic Byway stretches near Mankato, about 80 miles southwest of Minneapolis. Though primarily a driving route, this corridor also offers unique opportunities for canoeing and kayaking on the Minnesota River itself. Launch points near Blue Earth invite paddlers to glide past bluffs, bald eagle nests, and remnants of ancient Native American burial mounds. This area is unique for its blend of natural history and cultural significance, and springtime, when the river is high from snowmelt, provides ideal conditions for water travel and wildlife spotting. The river’s gentle flow and relatively open landscape give even novice boaters a comfortable ride through an often-overlooked corner of the state.
Lastly, for a historic rail experience combined with wilderness views, the Minnesota Zephyr tour train departs from Stillwater, traveling along the St. Croix River Valley. This leisurely route uncovers the story of the region’s logging past while offering stunning views of towering pines and the meandering river. It’s a different kind of train journey focused on storytelling and nostalgia, perfect on a crisp autumn afternoon when the colors of the valley are at their peak. The combination of history, scenery, and the gentle clatter of the rails makes this ride a memorable way to appreciate the natural and cultural heritage of eastern Minnesota.