5-Day Minneapolis Adventure Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: City Exploration

Minneapolis, MN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hell's Kitchen

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Hell's Kitchen, known for its hearty food and vibrant atmosphere.
Located in downtown Minneapolis, easy to navigate to with GPS.
$15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Minnehaha Park

Visit Minnehaha Park to see the beautiful waterfall and explore the walking trails for some nature immersion.
Located south of the city, follow signs to Minnehaha Park.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Spoon and Stable

Enjoy an upscale lunch at Spoon and Stable, a renowned restaurant in the North Loop neighborhood.
Located in North Loop, easily accessible by car.
$30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Walker Art Center

Spend the afternoon exploring contemporary art at the Walker Art Center and the adjoining Minneapolis Sculpture Garden.
Located in downtown Minneapolis, short drive from North Loop.
$15, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Butcher & The Boar

End the day with a flavorful dinner at Butcher & The Boar, known for its craft cocktails and delicious sausages.
Located in downtown Minneapolis, a short distance from the Walker Art Center.
$40, 2 hours
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Day 2: River Town Charm

Stillwater, MN

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Oasis Cafe

Start your day with a cozy breakfast at The Oasis Cafe, a local favorite with a charming atmosphere.
Located in the heart of Stillwater, easy to find in the historic district.
$20, 1 hour

11:00AM

St. Croix Scenic Boat Tour

Embark on a scenic boat tour along the St. Croix River to admire the picturesque views and learn about the area's history.
Tour departure from Stillwater Marina, book tickets in advance.
$40, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Dock Cafe

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Dock Cafe overlooking the river, offering a relaxing dining experience.
Located by the riverfront in Stillwater, a short walk from the marina.
$25, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Shopping on Main Street

Explore the boutiques and antique shops along Main Street, offering unique finds and a glimpse into Stillwater's heritage.
Stroll down Main Street from the riverfront, easily accessible on foot.
$, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Marx Fusion Bistro

Indulge in a fusion cuisine dinner at Marx Fusion Bistro, blending flavors from around the world in a cozy setting.
Located in downtown Stillwater, a short walk from Main Street.
$35, 2 hours
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Day 3: Scenic Bluffs and Trails

Red Wing, MN

8:30AM

Breakfast at Hanisch Bakery

Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Hanisch Bakery, famous for its pastries and coffee.
Located in Red Wing's downtown area, easy to find
$15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Hiking in Barn Bluff

Embark on a hike up Barn Bluff for panoramic views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding bluffs.
Drive to the trailhead for Barn Bluff, follow signs for hiking trails.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Bev's Cafe

Relish in a homestyle lunch at Bev's Cafe, a cozy spot with comfort food and friendly service.
Located in downtown Red Wing, easy to access after the hike.
$20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Red Wing Shoe Store & Museum

Discover the history of Red Wing boots at the iconic Red Wing Shoe Store & Museum, showcasing the craftsmanship behind this famous footwear.
Located in the downtown area, within walking distance from Bev's Cafe.
$10, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Port Restaurant

Savor a delightful dinner at The Port Restaurant overlooking the river, offering fresh seafood and steaks in a sophisticated setting.
Located on the waterfront, providing beautiful views at sunset.
$45, 2 hours
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Day 4: Historic Town Delights

Rochester, MN

9:00AM

Breakfast at Five West Kitchen + Bar

Start your day with a delectable breakfast at Five West Kitchen + Bar, known for its creative dishes and cozy ambiance.
Located in downtown Rochester, easy to get to from major highways.
$25, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore the History Center of Olmsted County

Step back in time as you explore the exhibits at the History Center of Olmsted County, showcasing the heritage of the region.
Located in Rochester, follow signs to the History Center.
$8, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Pescara

Enjoy a seafood lunch at Pescara, a fine dining restaurant offering fresh catches and elegant dishes.
Located in downtown Rochester, a short drive from the History Center.
$35, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Quarry Hill Nature Center

Discover the natural beauty of Quarry Hill Nature Center with its hiking trails, wildlife displays, and interactive exhibits for all ages.
Drive to Quarry Hill Nature Center, follow signs for parking.
$5, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Terza

Indulge in Italian cuisine for dinner at Terza, featuring wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas, and a curated wine selection.
Located in downtown Rochester, a great place to unwind after a day of exploration.
$40, 2 hours
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Day 5: College Town Vibe

Northfield, MN

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Ole Store Restaurant

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Ole Store Restaurant, a cozy spot in the heart of Northfield.
Located in downtown Northfield, easy to find on Division Street.
$20, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Carleton College

Explore the campus of Carleton College, known for its stunning architecture and vibrant college town atmosphere.
Campus tours available, check schedule for guided tours.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Contented Cow

Enjoy a casual lunch at The Contented Cow, a popular pub offering a variety of comfort food and drinks.
Located in downtown Northfield, close to Carleton College.
$15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Defeat of Jesse James Days Site

Learn about the legendary outlaw at the Defeat of Jesse James Days site, featuring historical displays and reenactments.
Follow signs to the site, located near downtown Northfield.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Chapati Indian Restaurant

End your trip with a flavorful dinner at Chapati Indian Restaurant, experiencing authentic Indian cuisine in a cozy setting.
Located in downtown Northfield, a short walk from the Jesse James Days site.
$30, 2 hours
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