10 TOP Things to Do in Central Minnesota (2026 Activity Guide)

"The Red Barn" is a really cool spot, off of County Rd 4 in Zimmerman, MN (East of 169). #ruins

#colorful

Sunrise on the lake. Nothing better than this to greet you in the morning on the cabin.

I spend many weekends up there. Very peaceful and the hiking has some amazing views.

Every winter these ice castles go up. Some fun tunnels and caverns to explore.

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What to do in Central Minnesota

Popular places to visit

Aerial View of a Large Casino on the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community Reservation in the Twin Cities of Minnesota

Mystic Lake Casino

Why not roll the dice with a visit to Mystic Lake Casino during your travels in Prior Lake? Stroll along the area's lakeside or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.

Paisley Park

You can spend an afternoon studying the exhibits at Paisley Park during your trip to Chanhassen. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its lively festivals.

Itasca State Park

You can take time to visit Itasca State Park during your travels to Park Rapids. While you're in the area, wander around the parks.

Detroit Lake

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Detroit Lake during your travels in Detroit Lakes. Wander the lakeside in this family-friendly area.

Saint Croix River National Scenic Riverway autumn views from Interstate State Park near Taylors Falls Minnesota

Wild Mountain

Bring the children to Wild Mountain and have a fun-filled day at this theme park in Taylors Falls. Discover the waterfalls in this relaxing area.

Lake Minnetonka

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Lake Minnetonka during your travels in Minneapolis - St. Paul.

Canterbury Park

Why not roll the dice with a visit to Canterbury Park during your time in Shakopee? Visit the area's shops or amble around its lakeside.

Northern Lights Casino

Why not roll the dice with a visit to Northern Lights Casino during your visit to Walker? While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.

Minnesota State University Moorhead

Take a campus tour or just explore the area of Minnesota State University Moorhead during your travels in Moorhead. Discover the acclaimed theatre scene and shops in this family-friendly area.

Areas of Central Minnesota

St. Cloud is a City in Central Minnesota on the Mississippi River with a University

Downtown St Cloud

While visiting Downtown St Cloud, you might make a stop by sights like Paramount Theater and Mississippi River.

Mississippi River Fall Colors at Riverview Heights Park in Fridley Minnesota

Oak Grove

Travellers like the golf courses in Oak Grove, and Lake George is a top attraction you might want to visit.

Forest-Covered Island in Lake Minnetonka: Aerial View on a Serene Summer Day

Greenwood

Greenwood is well liked for its theatres. If you'd like to do some sightseeing in the greater Excelsior area, you might plan a trip to Excelsior Bay Books or Paisley Park.

Hamel

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Hamel and surrounding area, you can visit Rush Creek and Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park.

Evening view of the lake we stayed at for our couples trip

Downtown Park Rapids

While Downtown Park Rapids isn't home to many top sights, Red Bridge Park and Headwaters Golf Club are some notable places to visit nearby.

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