The Perfect Weekend Getaway In Minnesota: Top 5 Places To Visit 

Nov 18, 2023

Last Updated on: Sep 1, 2025

Adventure

Minnesota is one beautiful Upper Midwestern state that never fails to amaze. It has diverse landscapes ranging from forests, prairies, and lakes. In fact, the state is often referred to as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” due to its numerous lakes.

The state is also a land of cultural significance, home to diverse communities and a deep-rooted artistic vibe. Did you know Minneapolis has the second-highest number of theater companies behind only New York City?

Speaking of progressive culture, Minnesota is one of the states that made medical marijuana available to residents in the early 2010s. You had access so long as you qualified for a medical marijuana card in Minnesota.

Basically, you’ll find different aspects of Minnesota quite pleasing. And if you’re looking for an escape from life’s hustles, you’ll love these top X spots for a perfect weekend getaway in Minnesota.

1. The Twin Cities

If you love going on a city-exploration rampage to get the most out of your visit, you’ll appreciate the sprawling Twin Cities.

The metropolitan area of Minneapolis–Saint Paul, two of the state’s largest cities, is home to more than half the state population. These are bustling modern cities with numerous attractions, from entertainment sites to world-class dining spots.

Galleries, museums, and theaters provide a look into the state’s art and culture.

Some of the spots to visit for cultural exploration include the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul, the Walker Art Center, and the state’s oldest art museum, the Minnesota Museum of American Art.

2. Red Wing

Small-town charm doesn’t get any better than Red Wing in Goodhue County, a town on the Mississippi River.

Red Wing offers abundance when it comes to outdoor adventure, art exhibits, and shopping and dining experiences.

While in town, relax on the docks on a quiet evening and watch the sunset as boats and yachts bob endlessly on the water. Most of all, explore the town’s scenic trails and finish your adventure with the majestic Barn Bluff, which offers epic views of the town.

3. Grand Marais

The northern lakeside town of Grand Marais is one of Minnesota’s most magical places to spend your weekend getaway.

Grand Marais is a tiny postcard-perfect waterfront town that packs a punch. It has no shortage of attractions, from the shores of Lake Superior to the mountainous interior.

On your first day, the best places to explore are Artist’s Point and Grand Marais Lighthouse. These are picturesque spots on the shores of Lake Superior that capture the beauty of the Great Lake.

The lighthouse sits way off onto the lake, making the walk on the breakwater long and exciting.

Away from the shores, you can take on the Pincushion Mountain Trail System, perfect for hiking and biking. If you’re an avid hiker, you can’t miss the opportunity to take on the much longer Gunflint Trail, teeming with scenic lookouts.

4. Detroit Lakes

Detroit Lakes, a city northeast of Minneapolis, is where you escape for an action-packed weekend. Tourism is the city’s bread and butter, which means you can expect plenty of fun.

Go skiing in winter, surfing on the lakes in summer, and mountain biking in the city’s extensive wilderness.

With hundreds of lakes calling Detroit Lakes home, you will have endless shorelines to explore. And when you’re exhausted, partake in the city’s festivities because it holds plenty of events and festivals every year.

5. Rochester

If you’re looking for a big and vibrant city besides Minneapolis and St. Paul, head to Rochester in the southeast portion of the state.

Rochester boasts many exciting attractions, from thousands of park acres and miles of paved trails to charming dining spots and a lively art scene.

Visit the beautiful waterfront downtown, where the Rochester Art Center and the renowned Mayo Civic Center are located.

If you visit anywhere between June and August, you’ll love the outdoor market and live entertainment occurring weekly in downtown Rochester. You’ll find the scene unforgettable, from the food to the music.

Final Thoughts

You won’t regret spending your weekend getaway in Minnesota because there are just too many unique places to explore. The diverse range of experiences offers something for everyone regardless of what you’re into. Whether you like outdoor adventures or urban excursions, there’s something for you.

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Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.

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READ MORE Luxurious Desert Safari Experiences in Dubai

“Sands of Splendor: Luxurious Desert Safari Experiences in Dubai”

BY  Abdul Aziz May 31, 2023

Imagine being in the middle of the beautiful Dubai desert. Surrounded by substantial golden dunes, with the wind gently caressing your face as the sun goes down. Welcome to the fantastic world of Desert Safari Dubai, where every step is a thrilling and luxurious journey. This article looks at the magical world of Dubai's extravagant desert adventures, giving a taste of a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The Dubai desert is a natural wonder. It is a big area with rolling sand dunes that explorers worldwide want to explore. Its beautiful scenery and sand dunes that are constantly changing make for a magical desert adventure. The Dubai desert has something for everyone, from people who want exciting experiences to people who wish to find peace. On our desert safari in Dubai, you can get up close and personal with nature's beauty. We take you on an exciting trip through this beautiful area. In addition to the fantastic natural beauty, Dubai safari tours offer exciting and luxurious things to do. Relax in the quiet of the desert as you ride on the back of a beautiful camel and swing to the beat of the animal's feet. People who like to try new things can go sandboarding down smooth sand hills or watch beautiful birds of prey act in falconry, an old sport. We at Desert Safaris think that any desert safari in Dubai needs to be a little bit fancy. You can choose from several carefully put-together desert tour deals, which lets us tailor your trip to your needs. You can trust our hardworking, experienced guides will care for every part of your tour. Our luxurious camp setting and a fleet of high-end cars make for a luxury oasis in the middle of the desert. Under the night sky, you can eat fabulous Arabic food and watch engaging cultural performances. Exploring The Desert Safari 1. The Magnificent Landscape There are sand mounds as far as the eye can see, which is gorgeous. The rolling beauty of the landscapes that these tall sand dunes produce is stunning. As the sun's golden rays dance over the sand, they turn the desert scene into a beautiful work of art. The Dubai Safari desert is great for exciting desert trips because it is dangerous and beautiful.  The impressive things about the desert make the meeting even more special. Imagine standing atop a huge hill, with sand grains under your feet and the vast sky in front of you. The desert's vast beauty leaves a lasting mark on your heart. Because the wind always moves in different ways, each trip to the desert is different and beautiful. The Dubai desert is matchless to another place to go on a desert adventure, whether you want peace or an adrenaline rush. 2. Unforgettable Activities On a desert safari in Dubai, you can do more than look at the beautiful scenery. You can also do exciting and luxurious things. Dune bashing is a fantastic way to drive off-road through the vast sand dunes of the desert. Fasten your seatbelts and hold on tight while our skilled drivers drive 4x4 cars over rough terrain. Do well at each hill and feel the rush of energy as you race over the sandy playground. Camel riding is like going back in time and is excellent for people who like to take their time. As you move deeper into the desert, you get on the back of a royal camel and rock to the beat of the desert. Simultaneously, as you walk along the grassy paths, the quiet of the desert is all around you. As you ride these beautiful animals through the desert, you'll feel like you're in Arabia. Desert vacations are all about luxury and beg alone. Our company offers personalized trips to fit the wants and hobbies of each customer. Our soft camp sets will be a delicious place to rest when exploring the desert. Gourmet food that will make your mouth water, cold drinks, and soft chairs to sit back and relax in. You planned the trip carefully for the right mix of luxury and adventure. 3. Cultural Immersion A desert safari in Dubai is not just about the landscapes and activities; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the region's rich culture. Unparalleled Luxury: Your Company's Desert Safari Dubai Tours  Tailored Experiences At Dubaidesertsafarigroup, we know that every person who comes to the UAE for a holiday has different needs and wants. Because of this, we offer custom desert safaris where every detail is changeable to fit your needs. You can make your trip do your hobbies, plan, and cash by choosing from different trip packages. Depending on what you want, our staff will work with you to plan a desert tour that is both exciting and relaxing. Our tour packages include everything from half-day trips to camping in the desert for the night. You can make your trip fit your interests by choosing from dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and falconry, among other things. Our desert adventure trips are open enough to suit single tourists, families, and big groups. World-Class Service and Amenities We at Dubaidesertsafarigroup want to ensure you have the best service and comfort during your desert adventure. Our trip through the desert is on a lot of luxury. We're happy to serve you meals that will make your mouth water and fill you up. Under the stars, you can eat as much as you want while watching engaging cultural performances showing the area's rich history and practices. We want your desert trip with us to be the most significant thing you've ever done. Testimonials And Reviews 1.      "Dubaidesertsafarigroup offers the most luxurious and personalized service I've ever had on a desert tour. Everything about our stay was just right. On our desert safari in Dubai, we had the best time ever. USA; John 2.      "Dubaidesertsafarigroup's careful planning and excellent service made our desert safari tour an event we will never forget. The guides knew what they were doing and ensured we were always comfy. The best parts of the trip were the luxurious rooms and food. Quickly recommended! Sarah from the UK The best things people have said about us in these reviews motivate us to give excellent service. Conclusion In conclusion, a desert safari in Dubai is the best way to have a luxurious and unique experience. The Dubai desert is like no other, with amazing views and exciting things to do that promise excitement and relaxation. At Dubaidesertsafarigroup, we love making trips based on your hobbies and needs. Our custom desert tours let you choose the activities, length of the journey, and luxury amenities that are best for you. We ensure that every part of your trip goes smoothly, whether you want a wild group adventure or a romantic getaway. Our services and equipment are the best in the business, making us stand out. We make sure your trip is fun and safe by giving you knowledgeable guides, high-end transportation, and comfortable places to stay. Under the moon and stars, you can stuff your face with excellent food and taste the foreign flavors of Arabia. On one of our desert adventure trips, you can show your friends and family a taste of culture and luxury. You can't pass up the chance to go on a desert adventure alone. Book a trip with Dubaidesertsafarigroup right now to see the beauty of the Desert Safari Dubai. For a unique desert experience, try sandboarding, riding a donkey, or dune bashing. Read Also : 10 Best Places To Travel In January – Travel Guide 2022 A Complete Guide To West Beach 10 Best Places To Travel In August – Travel Guide 2022

READ MORE trekking in Nepal

10 Tips For Trekking In Nepal: A Beginner’s Guide

BY  Sibashree Mar 21, 2025

Nepal has remained one of the best trekking destinations in the world, catering to every kind of adventurer. From the famous Everest Base Camp to the famous Annapurna Circuit and the much-demanding Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek, the trekking routes in Nepal are also the litmus taste for the most seasoned trekkers.  So, preparation is very crucial to make your trekking expedition safe and enjoyable. In this Tour and Travel Blog, we will quickly touch upon some helpful tips for your treks in Nepal. Best Tips For Trekking In Nepal: Approved By Local Guides And Seasoned Trekkers  Trekking in Nepal is like a dream come true moment for mountain lovers and adventure seekers.  Further, with a renewed focus on sustainability, Nepal is now committed to offering the best trekking experience that aligns with environmental values.  Along with the beauty of the mountains, the trekking routes here are pathways to learning about local culture, heritage, and diverse wildlife.  Nevertheless, the bounty or the fruit of the treks does not come easily to you. In fact, the trekking routes will throw you challenges.  So, you need to do the following preparations before you hit the mountains.  1. Choose The Right Trek Trekking in Nepal is ideal for trekkers across all expertise ranges. They welcome beginners and the ones with years of experience.  However, if you are a beginner, the Everest Base Camp Trek helicopter return and the Annapurna Circuit treks are not for you. These are for the most seasoned and the fittest hikers.  Rather, you can focus on the Langtang Valley treks, Helambu Trek, and Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.  So, assess the altitude, trek duration, and difficulty of a trek route to make the right choice.  2. Train Before You Go For Trekking In Nepal Physical and mental training can make your body used to the long hours of travel and walking for days or weeks. Further, you must start training for the trek at least two to three months before you start trekking. During physical training, you must focus on your muscles and leg strength.  Also, you must practice carrying extra weight so that trekking with your backpack becomes easier.  These exercises or practices will help you adjust to what you’ll experience on the trails.  Moreover, working on your weight and getting in better shape will reduce fatigue and make your trek much more enjoyable. 3. Pack Smart And Light For Trekking In Nepal Packing light and wise is the ultimate tip for trekking in Nepal. Make sure that you only carry the things you need to avoid carrying extra baggage.  Check out the table below to have some ideas about the things you need. ClothingFootwearWeather ProtectionWarmthAdditional ItemsBreathable, long-sleeved shirtsLightweight trekking pantsFleece pullover or jacketThermal socks for colder areasStrong, waterproof hiking bootsGaiters for snowy or muddy trailsWaterproof jacketFleece or wool beanieSunglasses with side shieldsSleeping bag and linerInner gloves or thermal glovesNotebook and penSun hatLip balm SunscreenTowel In addition to the essentials mentioned in the table, you need to carry a small kit with bandages, blister treatment, pain relievers, and personal medications. Further, you will need soft flasks or reusable water bottles. You can even choose insulated water bottles, and don’t forget to keep the purification filters and tablets handy.  Moreover, you will need a headlamp with extra batteries, and your backpack must have a solid frame with multiple compartments and adjustable straps.  4. Get The Necessary Permits When you plan a trek in Nepal, you have to bring the right permits.  Most trekking routes require a Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card. You’ll also need entry permits for national parks or conservation areas like Everest, Annapurna, or Langtang.  These permits not only ensure your safety but also support local communities.  Further, If you’re heading to restricted areas such as Upper Mustang or Dolpo, a special permit is mandatory.  Get these permits, carry your passport, visa copies, and passport-size photos. Moreover, hire a guide from a registered agency if you are doing solo trekking in Nepal.  5. Hire A Guide Or Porter For Trekking In Nepal A local guide shares valuable knowledge about the culture and trails, and porters can help by carrying heavy loads, allowing you to trek comfortably. Further, on remote and high-altutde routes, you will need a guide and porter for safety.  Moreover, by hiring a guide or porter, you can support the community and promote sustainable tourism. Overall, having a guide or porter enhances your trekking experience while positively impacting the region. 6. Acclimatize Properly When Trekking In Nepal Trekking in Nepal comes with the risk of altitude sickness. To stay safe, you have to follow the ‘climb high, sleep low’ rule. The rule means ascending during the day and sleeping at a lower altitude. This is essential for a successful peak climbing experience. For example, during your Everest Base Camp trek, you can acclimatize at Namche Bazaar and ensure a successful peak climbing experience. Further, staying hydrated is crucial while trading the high-altitude routes. So, drink four liters of water every day.  7. Respect Local Culture When Trekking In Nepal As you pass through the local villages during trekking, you must be respectful of local traditions. Greeting people with “Namaste” is a warm and respectful way to say hello!  Be polite and show interest in their in their way of life. Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees, especially in religious areas. Further, always ask for permission before photographing locals or sacred sites. Respect customs such as removing shoes to enter temples and walking clockwise around stupas.  These small acts of respect go a long way in your relationship with the locals.  8. Be Environmentally Responsible Keep Nepal’s trails clean and beautiful, and follow simple eco-friendly habits. Always carry a reusable water bottle to cut down on plastic waste.  Further, you must dispose of trash and use biodegradable soap to protect water sources. Stick to marked trails to avoid harming plants and animals. Also, avoid using single-use plastics and choose lodges that support sustainable practices.  In addition, you have to be respectful to the local community by preserving cultural sites and keeping the noise levels low. 9. Prepare For Unpredictable Weather Trekking in Nepal will surprise you with changing weather conditions. A moment you can see bright sunlight and the next moment everything can be covered in snow, fog and rain, making it very difficult for you to trek.  The change of weather conditions is also crucial if you want to go for a mountain view helicopter tour. Further, to stay warm, you must dress in layers and carry a rain jacket.  10. Enjoy The  Trekking Journey Enjoy your journey to the fullest when trekking in Nepal. Indulge in the scenic views and immerse in the local culture and hospitality.  Make the trek or the journey all about acquiring meaningful experiences and just being present in the moment. 

READ MORE things to do in Flagstaff

Top 11 Unique things To Do In Flagstaff Before 2024

BY  Abdul Aziz Apr 29, 2020

With many natural sights, monuments, and other adventurous places, Flagstaff is the largest city in northern Arizona. Trust me, you’re going to find a lot of exciting things to do in Flagstaff. I visited Flagstaff last year along with several other best places in the USA.   It was a truly exhilarating journey from Las Vegas to Zion National Park. Apart from this, I also had a great time on the Maryland trip.   Now, in this post, you will find many attractive places with a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, snowboarding, etc.   Best Things to Do in Flagstaff   The best place to start your Flagstaff trip is from the Historic Downtown and Railroad District. Know the other exciting things to do here.   1. Exploring Historic Downtown and Railroad District  https://www.instagram.com/p/C-GKpULKpQx/ When you plan your Flagstaff trip, I would recommend that you start the trip from the Historic Downtown and Railroad District.   I’m sure you’re going to enjoy the beauty of the town walking along the streets. You will find historic buildings that are now being converted into hotels, restaurants, breweries, etc.   Even at night, you’ll find a crowd in the town. I remember when I came back from a movie show, some college students were out on the street. You can book a day or two of your stay here to enjoy the farmer’s market, local events, entertainment shows, shopping, eating, and drinking.   The town allows easy access to many other tourist spots in Flagstaff. A wonderful park is located within walking distance of the visitors’ center.  2. Visiting Wheeler Park is One of the Best Things to Do in Flagstaff  https://www.instagram.com/p/Ctj4PRiK9Ts/ Take a short walk from the visitor center of the historic downtown to get to this park.  Visiting Wheeler Park is one of the best things to do in Flagstaff.   The park hosts a variety of events, such as regular park runs and weekly art festivals like Park Art, Hullabaloo, and more.   The park is full of trees that give you a green space to relax and enjoy. When I visited this park, a lot of people came with books to read, but my friends and I enjoyed a picnic in the park.   3. Grand Canyon Day Tour  This place is out of town, so you can book a day trip to discover different historic buildings and hike in different locations. If you have time, then a day trip to the Grand Canyon is one of the great things to do in Flagstaff.  You’ll find the El Tovar Lodge and the Desert View Watchtower on this day trip. You’ll get a chance to have lunch and explore the Navajo Trading Post. Usually, it’s best if you’re traveling in a group.  4. Walnut Canyon National Monument  Exploring the Walnut Canyon National Monument is one of the most interesting things to do in Flagstaff. You might be thinking, why is the name of the monument called so? The reason is simple: the name is because this national monument is full of Arizona Walnut trees.  This monument is in the East of Flagstaff, which has many types of plants. The canyon has more than 500 species of plants, and you’ll find various wildlife in the forest.  Another interesting part of the monument is the loop trail, which descends along the canyon. There are several other trails around the Walnut Canyon, but the loop trail is the most attractive one.   Along this way, you will discover 25 historical limestone cliff residents where the Sinagua people were staying in the past.   5. Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument  Have you ever heard of a volcano eruption? The Sunset Volcano National Monument is a place in Flagstaff where you can discover the eruption of volcanoes.   Around 900 years ago, a massive volcano eruption shook the city. In this eruption, a significant volume of lava was released and dispersed over 4 miles and coated 800 + acres of land in ash and rock fragments.  It’s been a long time since this eruption happened, but today, you can still find evidence of the violent and destructive events that occurred. The crater gives you a perfect hiking trail to explore the three lava flows.   However, certain areas of the crater are not permitted to be explored for safety reasons. Head to the visitor center, where you can learn about the volcano eruption and how it affected the region. Many visitors recommend exploring the crater, which is one of the best things to do in Flagstaff.  6. Wupatki National Monument  Among other National Monuments, the Wupatki is one of the most famous monuments in America. However, this monument is abandoned but safeguarded by the Hopi clans. They tell the lifestyle and stories about their ancestors. To their beliefs, people at that time died here and remained as spiritual guides.   If you want to discover the rich American history, then visiting the Wupatki National Monument is one of the best things to do in Flagstaff. Ancient Pueblo people built this monument.    It has three buildings and 29 structures in an area of 35,000 acres (about half the area of Athens, Georgia). I didn’t get a chance to explore the place with the rangers when I visited. But if your luck is good, you might have an opportunity to discover the monument with the rangers. You can hike to some parts of the monument.  7. Arizona Snowbowl Scenic Chairlift  https://www.instagram.com/p/C75FlFhpVmS/?img_index=1 Riding the scenic chairlift to see the Arizona Snowbowl and the San Francisco Peaks is one of the most interesting things to do in Flagstaff. If you’re planning your trip in the autumn (that’s from October to December), you’ll enjoy the scenic chairlift ride. In this season, the landscape of Arizona showcases different colors and is truly mesmerizing.  When you reach the top, you will gain some information about the place from the rangers. They offer you knowledge on various topics such as the habitats of the region, geology, and history. Apart from this, you can enjoy adventurous activities like snowboarding, walking on the trails, and skiing.   8. Exploring the Lowell Observatory is one of the Unique Things to Do in Flagstaff  Lowell Observatory offers you the opportunity to get a view of space through telescopes. Do you know that this is the place where Pluto was discovered?   Here, you will find the original telescope that was used to discover the planet Pluto. Now, it is a working research center that is open to visitors to learn about space, the universe, galaxies, etc.  I would say visiting the Lowell Observatory is one of the most exciting things to do in Flagstaff. The observatory also hosts different special programs that allow you to meet an astronomer or attend different events, such as meteor showers.  9. Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course  https://www.instagram.com/p/Cv-CXpCL-tn/ Do you like adventurous or challenging activities? Taking a rope drive on the zip lines in the Forthfill Country Park will pump your adrenaline. This spot will give you a thrilling experience by suspending between the trees.   I had a fear of heights, and it was really challenging for me, but I really enjoyed the rope drive. Trust me, this is one of the most adventurous things to do in Flagstaff, in my opinion.   If you travel in a group or alone, you can enjoy different adventure courses, from walking on the ropes to swinging between the trees. This place offers a different level of activities for adults and kids.  10. Camping At Lockett Meadow  This is the most beautiful place to visit on the list of things to do in Flagstaff. This is a fantastic place in the Coconino National Forest, inside Flagstaff. If you want to visit this place, one day is not enough and, fortunately, you can enjoy camping here.  The best time to visit this place is all year round because you’ll have a different experience in every season. You’ll find the ash tree leaves turning yellow in the summer, and the whole place looks amazing. Meanwhile, in spring, the entire meadow is full of flowers.  11. Museum of Northern Arizona  https://www.instagram.com/p/C2nVq3esjJ_/?img_index=1 This is a place where you can learn about the history of Flagstaff. The museum is built on lava stone. It allows you to discover the dinosaurs, the geology of Northern Arizona, and the ancient people who lived there. In my opinion, this is a place that you should never miss if you ever travel to Flagstaff.   Here, you will learn about the history, biology, arts, geology, and many other things about Northern Arizona. Along with that, the museum has a central garden that shows different species of plants in the area. Visiting the museum can give you some knowledge about this place. It is one of the best things to do in Flagstaff.   Why Is Flagstaff Called a Dark City?   Flagstaff became the official “Dark City” in 2001. On 24th October 2001, it was named the “First International Dark Sky City” because of the unforeseen work it did to preserve the natural resources of the night sky.   The preservation effort was to ensure economic security and public safety. Also, it was instrumental in ensuring Flagstaff’s position as a “premiere astronomic site” in the world. In addition, it was an expression of community values.   You can even watch the Milky Way in Flagstaff, and the view is stellar. If the weather is good, you will see the stars shooting one after another.   Bon Voyage!  Hopefully, you’ve found some useful travel ideas and unique things to do in Flagstaff. From my experience, I recommend that you plan your trip from October to December.   To explore every place on the list and have a memorable experience, plan your tour for 10 to 15 days (about 2 weeks). As I mentioned above, you’re going to explore the National Monuments, a few parks, and more. Hiking, snowboarding, skiing, and rope driving are some of the outdoor activities you’ll enjoy on your Flagstaff tour.  Also read Beginner Tips For Your First Camino de Santiago. Ultimate Guide to Your Next Family Vacation in Israel. Boat Charter Miami: Essential Tips for a Great Experience.