The 10 Most Beautiful Cities in Minnesota
Nestled along the shores of Lake Superior, Duluth captivates visitors with its dramatic harbor and the striking Aerial Lift Bridge that links the city’s bustling port to the scenic Park Point sandbar. Just under three hours north of Minneapolis, this city offers the scenic Skyline Parkway, a 28-mile drive that winds along cliffs and overlooks, revealing panoramic views of the lake and the city’s historic architecture. Walking the Lakewalk along Lake Superior’s edge, especially in the golden light of late afternoon, reveals rugged rocks and waves crashing, blending urban charm with wilderness beauty in a way few cities can match.
Farther south, about 90 minutes west of Minneapolis, sits Stillwater, a quaint river town along the St. Croix River. This city’s historic lift bridge and the cobblestone streets of its downtown district invite leisurely exploration. Wandering through Lowell Park, visitors can enjoy picnic spots shaded by tall trees with river views, while the St. Croix River itself offers kayaking and paddleboarding opportunities. Stillwater’s blend of 19th-century architecture and waterfront vistas creates a peaceful, small-town atmosphere that changes gracefully with each season, particularly vibrant during autumn’s foliage.
Near the Twin Cities, about 30 minutes northwest of Minneapolis, stands Excelsior on the southern shore of Lake Minnetonka. The historic downtown is dotted with charming boutiques and lakeside cafes that overlook sparkling waters. The Minnehaha Creek Trail runs nearby, providing a pleasant pathway through woods and meadows, perfect for cycling or strolling. Excelsior’s small-town feel combined with access to one of Minnesota’s largest lakes gives it a uniquely inviting energy, especially on summer evenings when locals gather to watch sailboats drift lazily across the water.
In central Minnesota, Brainerd rests in the heart of lake country, roughly two hours north of Minneapolis. It’s a gateway to the Paul Bunyan State Trail, a 120-mile rail trail decorated with scenic forests and lakeshores. The trail through Brainerd is flat and accessible, ideal for biking or rollerblading while surrounded by pine forests. Brainerd’s proximity to hundreds of lakes means visitors can easily combine trail time with fishing or boating. The region’s crisp fall colors and quiet winter snowfall enhance the experience, making it a year-round destination for outdoor lovers.
Heading northeast, the town of Grand Marais sits along the edge of Lake Superior’s rugged North Shore, about three hours from Duluth. The harbor area here is a photographer’s dream, with brightly painted fishing boats and the iconic lighthouse providing striking contrasts against the often moody lake backdrop. Hiking the nearby Artist’s Point trail offers breathtaking views of the rocky coastline and crashing waves. Grand Marais also serves as a cultural hub with galleries and the renowned North House Folk School, where visitors can learn traditional crafts inspired by the surrounding wilderness. The town’s beauty is especially profound during the long summer days and the fiery hues of autumn.
In the southeast corner of the state, Winona perches on bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, about two hours southeast of the Twin Cities. The Great River Bluffs State Park nearby features trails that climb steep hillsides through cedar groves to overlook the expansive river valley below. The panoramic vista at the top captures the winding Mississippi and the rolling farmland beyond. Winona’s historic downtown blends riverfront charm with vibrant arts and music scenes, making it both a natural and cultural delight. Early spring, when wildflowers bloom along the bluffs, offers a particularly enchanting visit.
Continuing westward, Mankato lies roughly 80 miles southwest of Minneapolis along the Minnesota River. The city’s Sibley Park features riverfront trails and a striking limestone bluff with a scenic overlook that stretches across the river valley. Nearby Minneopa State Park offers a double waterfall, including a 39-foot drop that freezes into a sparkling ice sculpture in winter. These natural features anchor Mankato’s appeal, giving it a rugged yet welcoming feel. Spring and early summer, when the park’s wildflowers awaken and water flows at full force, reveal the area’s true vitality.
About 90 minutes north of Minneapolis, Stillwater’s quiet neighbor, Taylors Falls, offers a gateway to the St. Croix River and Interstate State Park. This park is famous for its glacial potholes and ancient rock formations carved by the river. Hiking the park’s trails along the cliffs reveals stunning views of the winding river and Canadian border beyond. Kayaking or boat tours through the narrow river gorge offer intimate encounters with the region’s unique geology. The area’s rugged terrain and clear waters are particularly striking during the fall foliage season when the forest canopy shifts to fiery reds and golds.
In the heart of the Twin Cities, the historic neighborhood of Lowertown in St. Paul showcases beautifully restored warehouses, now lively with art studios, cozy cafes, and music venues. The nearby Mears Park provides a green oasis amid the urban landscape, hosting farmers markets and summer festivals that highlight the city’s vibrant community. Architectural details like exposed brick and large industrial windows set Lowertown apart, blending Minneapolis-Saint Paul’s industrial past with a thriving arts culture. Early evenings here, especially in spring and summer, come alive with music and outdoor dining, offering a taste of city charm and warmth.
Finally, about three hours southwest of Minneapolis, the small city of New Ulm offers a distinctly German heritage along the Minnesota River. The August Schell Brewing Company, one of the oldest family-owned breweries in America, provides tours and tastings that celebrate traditional German beer-making. New Ulm’s Hermann Heights Monument overlooks the city from a bluff, offering panoramic views of the surrounding farmland and river valley. The city’s festivals and preserved architecture reflect its rich immigrant history, making it a cultural gem with scenic surroundings. Late summer, when outdoor events fill Main Street, is the perfect time to experience New Ulm’s spirited blend of beauty and tradition.