Best Springtime Destinations Near Minnesota
Minnesotans are more than ready for spring when it arrives. However, the weather doesn't always change in time for the Spring Equinox on March 20. When the weather does begin to warm up and spring arrives, Minnesotans head out of town for a quick jaunt somewhere that they can enjoy being outdoors before the jackets and sweaters get put away for good. Head out to any of these nearby spots to bask in the great outdoors before summer rolls around.
Bay Beach Amusement Park
1313 Bay Beach Road
Green Bay, WI 54301
(920) 448-3365
www.greenbaywi.gov
Head north of the Twin Cities and east of Minnesota to Packer Country this spring. Green Bay, Wisconsin has a lot to offer outside of their famous football team. The Bay Beach Amusement Park, opening in early May, is a historic outdoor gem. Ride roller coasters, bumper cars, and enjoy concessions on the Fox River. Admission is free and the attraction is also close to Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary, an amazing place to watch the spring take hold of the Midwest.
Amana Colonies
622 46th Ave.
Amana, IA 52203
(319) 622-7622
www.amanacolonies.com
South of Minnesota is the coolest underrated area to visit in the spring. The Amana Colonies of Iowa are a group of seven German villages that were once the location of a huge German immigrant population, built for the purpose of preserving German heritage in America. The villages provide quaint shops, restaurants, and museums to visit. Find a great Bed and Breakfast or stay in a hotel among the villages and enjoy a vacation of exploration and discovery at this national historic landmark.
Gunflint Lodge
143 S. Gunflint Lake
Grand Marais, MN 55604
(800) 328-3325
www.gunflint.com
Up in the midst of the North Woods, the Gunflint Lodge is the perfect getaway resort for the spring. Located on Gunflint Lake, a variety of activities await during the change of seasons. Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy opportunities to be out along the Gunflint Trail, watching animals come out of hibernation. Opportunities for fishing and canoeing on the lake are also available. The resort provides options for staying in rustic cabins to beautiful homes during your stay. Enjoy some nature this spring at Gunflint Lodge.
Related: Best Spring Break Destinations Near Minnesota For Families
Trempealeu Hotel
150 Main St.
Trempealeau, WI 54661
(608) 534-6898
www.trempealeauhotel.com
On the banks of the Mississippi River, the historic village of Trempealeu, Wisconsin offers a fun and quaint getaway for spring. Stay in the historic Trempealeu Hotel and enjoy the rustic charm of the building, with their antique decor and traditional hospitality. The restaurant at the hotel offers a scratch kitchen and live music for evening entertainment. During the day, wander the village and enjoy birdwatching or fishing along the river.
Door County
Door County Visitor Center
1015 Green Bay Road
Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235
(920) 743-4456
www.doorcounty.com
On the Eastern Peninsula of Wisconsin is a magical place to take a vacation and enjoy the outdoors during the spring. Door County offers miles of coastline and 5 state parks for hiking, biking, and hundreds of other outdoor activities. Visit wineries, spas, and resorts along Green Bay or take a boat tour up the coast. Door County also runs trolleys up and down the streets for traveling among small villages and shops. If you're lucky, you may even make your trek during one of their festivals or farmer's market days.
Related: Best Day Trips From The Twin Cities
Andrea Wodele is a freelance writer who has lived in the Twin Cities for the last 10 years. Her hobbies include exercising, driving kids around, watching Minnesota sports, and reading self-help literature. Examiner.com.
