7-Day Adventure Road Trip Itinerary in Minnetonka, Minnesota

Day 1: Explore Minnetonka

Minnetonka, Minnesota

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Wildfire

Start your adventure with a hearty breakfast at The Wildfire, where they serve a scrumptious selection of omelets and freshly baked pastries.
Located just off Highway 494, it’s a convenient starting point for your day.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Gray’s Bay Marina

Take a stroll through Gray’s Bay Marina, enjoying the serene waters of Lake Minnetonka and picturesque views.
Drive 10 minutes along Lake Road.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Hike at Minnehaha Creek

Enjoy a hike along Minnehaha Creek, taking in beautiful nature trails and possibly spotting local wildlife.
It's a short 15-minute drive to the creek.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Zelo

Savor a delightful lunch at Zelo, known for its innovative Italian cuisine and fresh ingredients.
Drive 20 minutes to downtown Minneapolis to reach Zelo.
USD20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Minnetonka Center for the Arts

Explore local art exhibits and take part in workshops or classes if available.
It's just a 10-minute drive back to Minnetonka.
USD10, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Cafe Lurcat

Experience dinner at Cafe Lurcat, a trendy spot famous for its creative dishes and vibrant atmosphere.
The restaurant is a short drive from the art center.
USD30, 2 hours
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Day 2: Minneapolis City Visit

Minneapolis, Minnesota

8:30AM

Breakfast at Franklin Street Bakery

Enjoy pastries and coffee at this urban bakery that specializes in handmade goods.
A 15-minute drive from your hotel in Minnetonka.
USD10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden

Walk through the expansive Sculpture Garden showcasing over 40 works of art, including the iconic Spoonbridge and Cherry.
Walk or drive a short distance from the bakery.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Badge

Indulge in a hearty lunch with a twist on comfort food at The Badge restaurant.
A quick 10-minute drive from the Sculpture Garden.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Mall of America

Spend your afternoon shopping or simply enjoying the wide variety of attractions at the Mall of America.
Just a 20-minute drive to Bloomington.
Free to enter, varies for activities, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Mundos

Enjoy an authentic taste of Latin America at Mundos, offering fresh tacos and margaritas.
Located inside Mall of America.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: St. Paul Tour

St. Paul, Minnesota

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kelly's Depot Bar & Grill

Start your day with a classic American breakfast at this cozy eatery.
About a 30-minute drive from Minneapolis to St. Paul.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore the State Capitol

Take a guided or self-tour of the beautiful Minnesota State Capitol building and its impressive architecture.
Located nearby within walking distance of the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Walk around Como Park Zoo & Conservatory

Enjoy a leisurely walk around the zoo and conservatory, home to diverse plant species and animals.
A short 15-minute drive to Como Park.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Capital Grille

Dine in style at The Capital Grille, known for its dry-aged steaks and extensive wine list.
Drive 10 minutes back towards downtown St. Paul.
USD35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Science Museum of Minnesota

Engage with interactive exhibits and catch an IMAX film at this renowned museum.
Just a short 5-minute drive from the restaurant.
USD20, 2.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at W.A. Frost & Company

Enjoy dinner at this charming eatery set in a historic building with an extensive menu.
A quick 10-minute drive from the museum.
USD30, 2 hours
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Day 4: Day Trip to Taylors Falls

Taylors Falls, Minnesota

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Shop

Fuel your adventure with breakfast sandwiches and excellent coffee at this local cafe.
Drive 1 hour to Taylors Falls.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Kayaking on the St. Croix River

Rent a kayak and explore the stunning scenery along the St. Croix River.
Nearby rental services are available.
USD30, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch by the River

Pack a picnic and enjoy a lunch right by the riverside, surrounded by nature.
Purchase your supplies at a local grocery store before heading to the river.
USD15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Hiking in Interstate State Park

Hike the beautiful trails of Interstate State Park, known for its geology and stunning views.
A 10-minute drive to the park entrance.
USD10 (entry fee), 3 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at The Dalles House

Enjoy dinner at The Dalles House with its scenic views and great American fare.
A quick 15-minute drive back to Taylors Falls.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Charming Stillwater

Stillwater, Minnesota

8:00AM

Breakfast at Leo’s Grill & Malt Shop

Dig into omelettes and old-fashioned malts at this retro diner vibe restaurant.
Drive 30 minutes to Stillwater.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Historic Main Street

Stroll through the charming boutiques and historic buildings of downtown Stillwater.
Within walking distance from the breakfast spot.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Boat tour on the St. Croix River

Enjoy a scenic boat tour to learn about Stillwater’s history and beautiful landscape.
Dock located nearby on the river.
USD25, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Dock Cafe

Dine at The Dock Cafe, enjoying picturesque river views and delicious farm-to-table dishes.
A short walk from the boat dock.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Lift Bridge

Visit the historic Stillwater Lift Bridge, a great photo opportunity.
A quick 10-minute walk away.
Free, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Relax at Pioneer Park

Unwind at Pioneer Park, perfect for a stroll or relaxing amid nature.
A 5-minute drive or 20-minute walk.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Freight House

Enjoy a delightful dinner at The Freight House known for its upscale rustic fare.
Located just a few minutes from the park.
USD30, 2 hours
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Day 6: Bloomington Adventure

Bloomington, Minnesota

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Original Pancake House

Indulge in a lovely breakfast with renowned pancakes and fruit toppings.
A short drive of 30 minutes from Stillwater.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Normandale Japanese Garden

Experience a serene morning in the Japanese Garden filled with beautiful plants and scenery.
Drive approximately 20 minutes from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Walk at Hyland Lake Park Reserve

Stroll through the extensive trails and enjoy the natural beauty of Hyland Lake Park.
Located not far from the Japanese Garden.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Cheesecake Factory

Savor delicious meals with an extensive menu including delectable cheesecakes for dessert.
A 10-minute drive to the mall area.
USD25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge

Spend time observing wildlife and enjoying the scenic natural area.
Only a 15-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Bonfire

Cap off your day with a hearty dinner at Bonfire, known for its flame-grilled dishes.
A short drive back towards Minnetonka.
USD30, 2 hours
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Day 7: Relax and Reflect

Minnetonka, Minnesota

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Buttered Tin

Delight in a comforting breakfast featuring their famous cinnamon rolls and tasty coffee.
A 15-minute drive to St. Paul for breakfast.
USD10, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Wayzata Beach

Spend a relaxing morning at Wayzata Beach, where you can walk and enjoy the water views.
A 20-minute drive back to Minnetonka.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Bayside Grille

Enjoy cozy lakeside dining with fresh seafood at The Bayside Grille.
Just a short drive from Wayzata Beach.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Lokta Nature Preserve

Take a leisurely walk through Lokta Nature Preserve, enjoying its serene setting.
A quick 10-minute drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Post-trip Reflection at a Local Café

Spend time reminiscing about your trip at a local café while enjoying a warm beverage.
Head to a café in downtown Minnetonka.
USD10, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Citadel

End your adventure with a delightful dinner, featuring a mix of American and international cuisine.
Make your way back to Minnetonka for a hearty farewell dinner.
USD30, 2 hours
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