Best Memorial Day Getaways Near Minnesota
Memorial Day typically gives us all a long weekend. No need to spend it stuck at home as there are plenty of ways to honor the memory of those lost , and appreciate what they fought for, in Minnesota. Get away from the usual grind. These local vacations will offer peace and serenity, but also a great time you can enjoy with the whole family.
Rochester
www.rochestercvb.org
This southern Minnesota city has recently come into its own as a destination and Memorial Day is the perfect opportunity to check it out. This place blends the arts and culture of a larger city, but still the outdoor options nearby that define outstate Minnesota. Enjoy hiking during the day and go out and catch a show or have dinner at one of the downtown restaurants. Rochester is also home to the Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial, a fitting place to visit on a holiday such as this one.
Arrowwood Resort Hotel
2100 Arrowwood Lane
Alexandria, MN 56308
(320) 762-1124
www.arrowwoodresort.com
Fun for the whole family can be found in Alexandria, as this resort offers plenty of options for lodging, from larger town homes to smaller hotel rooms with many nearby activities right on Lake Darling. With the spectacular indoor water park, you won't have to leave the resort. There are plenty of places for peace and quiet as well. A Memorial Day Weekend Package is offered as well, so take advantage if you're traveling with a larger group.
Camping In The St. Croix River Valley
www.saintcroixriver.com
Make the most of your Memorial Day getaway by experiencing one of the most pristine parts of Minnesota. Whether you're traveling as a family, just you and a loved one, or with friends, a camping trip through this part of the state is a great way to start the summer. The entire area is dotted with state parks and campgrounds, where the lush greenery, rolling hills, and majestic St. Croix River will truly let you leave the bustle of life behind. Check the map above to find out where you'd like to stay, and what's nearby.
Bemidji
www.visitbemidji.com
The "First City on the Mississippi" has everything you could want for a great Minnesota getaway. Home to the iconic Paul Bunyan and Baby the Blue Ox statue, Bemidji is also home to Paul Bunyan Animal Land which is a zoo great for kids of all ages, the Putt-N-Go Amusement Park, outdoor obstacle courses, and plenty of opportunities for hiking, bird watching and geocaching. There are many places to stay, both hotels inside the city or RV and camping options nearby.
Water Park of America
1700 American Blvd. E.
Bloomington, MN 55425
(952) 854-8900
www.waterparkofamerica.com
This is one of the best places to swim, slide, laugh and play to kick off the summer, Water Park of America offers a great escape for kids of all ages. With nearby Mall of America also available, you won't be bored for a moment at one of the biggest attractions in Minnesota. Dining options are available as well, whether you're in the mood to sit down and relax as a family or just grab something quick and keep on playing.
Adrian Schramm is a resident Saint Paul writer with a passion for all things local. Through his work with Saint Paul Almanac and Minneapolis Examiner at Examiner.com, as well as in the kitchens of bars and restaurants around town, he has discovered what truly makes the Twin Cities tick.