After you’ve lived in a place for long enough, it’s easy to believe you’ve seen all that there is to see there. But we’re here to tell you that, no matter how long you’ve lived in Minnesota, there is still more to discover! That’s why we made a hidden gem road trip. Follow this route to some of the state’s most incredible little-known spots, and you’ll find yourself on a brand-new Minnesota adventure. Read on below to find the route and read more about each place along it. It’s one of the best Minnesota road trips you’ll ever go on.
The Route
Google Maps This road trip starts in the small Minnesota town of Willmar. It’s about 63 miles southwest of St. Cloud, or 90 miles west of the Twin Cities, making it easy to get to for most south-central Minnesotans. The route is about 250 miles long, winding through some of southern Minnesota’s most interesting hidden gems to the final stop in Red Wing. The driving will take about 5 hours, so this could be a great weekend trip or even a day trip if you get started early enough! Check out the full route
- Frieda’s Cafe - Willmar
Google Maps Frieda’s Cafe is a tiny restaurant in Willmar, Minnesota. While it’s small in size, its menu is full of big flavor. Locals gather here for home-cooked food, especially breakfast. If you’re starting off early, this is a great spot to fuel yourself for the driving ahead of you. Try a pancake breakfast, a plate of bacon and eggs, or even French toast! Frieda’s Cafe is a must-visit! 511 Benson Ave SW, Willmar, MN 56201, USA
- Ramsey Falls - Redwood Falls
Sir king man/TripAdvisor South of Frieda’s Cafe is Ramsey Falls in the city of Redwood Falls, Minnesota. This free-to-visit waterfall is tucked into the 256-acre Ramsey Park. The waterfall alone makes it worth visiting, but there is also a small but lovely zoo. Between the waterfall, zoo, and the park’s playgrounds and paths, you’ll find plenty to like about this southern Minnesota hidden gem. Ramsey Falls is definitely one of the best Minnesota road trip attractions. 99 E Oak St, Redwood Falls, MN 56283, USA
- Domeier’s German Store - New Ulm
Lee Blackwood/Google Next up on this road trip is a stop at Domeier’s German Store. Found in New Ulm - a small town with a German heritage - this store is packed with German goodies. From home decor to snacks to souvenirs, there’s something for just about everyone here. When you’re done browsing, you may also want to take a quick tour around town to see the Hermann Heights Monument and the town’s 45-foot-tall glockenspiel. Domeier’s German Store is truly one of a kind! 1020 S Minnesota St, New Ulm, MN 56073, USA
- Minnemishinona Falls - Mankato
Ryan Gohlinghorst/Google Mankato is well known for being home to Minneopa Falls at Minneopa State Park. But there’s a lesser-known waterfall in town that is well worth visiting. Minnemishinona Falls is tucked away off a country road. But when you find it, you’ll be glad you went to the effort. The 42-foot-tall waterfall tumbles over a rocky cliff into a deep gorge. A pedestrian bridge over the gorge allows visitors to see the waterfall up close. If you’re a waterfall lover, you’ll be delighted to find this hidden gem waterfall! Don’t skip over Minnemishinona Falls. 40923 Judson Bottom Rd, North Mankato, MN 56003, USA
- Rapidan Dam Store - Mankato
Philip Stromme/Google Mankato is home to many restaurants, but Rapidan Dam Store is one of the most charming. Located near the Rapidan Dam, this hole-in-the-wall spot serves up great lunches. Stop in for a sandwich or burger to keep you going as you continue your road trip. No matter what you get, make sure you save some room for pie! The store is most known for this sweet treat, and they offer up plenty of delicious flavors. Do not miss out on this tiny but tasty restaurant in Michigan! Rapidan Dam Cafe, 54116 Glory Ln, Mankato, MN 56001, USA
- Cowling Arboretum
Albert Wu/Google Next up, the route leads to the city of Northfield. There is plenty to see in Northfield. If you’d like to explore, you won’t have trouble finding shopping or restaurants in the city’s bustling downtown. There are parks, picnic areas, and plenty of lovely spaces, including the Cowling Arboretum. This hidden gem is part of Carlton College, but it’s free to visit. About 10 miles of trails throughout the grounds lead to beautiful plant life, birds, butterflies, and water features. It’s a fantastic, nature-filled spot to take some respite from the road. Route 19, MN-19, Northfield, MN, USA
- Zumbrota Covered Bridge
Joshua S./Google After you’ve had your fill at the arboretum, the next stop is in the small town of Zumbrota. This town is home to the only remaining original covered bridge left in Minnesota, built in 1869. You’ll find it at Covered Bridge Park, where you can explore the grounds and walk across the more than 150-year-old bridge. It’s a great piece of Minnesota history and one that not many people know about. You’ll love exploring the oldest covered bridge in Minnesota. Zumbrota Covered Bridge, Unnamed Road, Zumbrota, MN 55992, USA
- The Smokin’ Oak Rotisserie & Grill
Jolene Knutson/Google The final stop on the route is in Red Wing, Minnesota. The Smokin’ Oak Rotisserie & Grill is a restaurant that few people outside of Red Wing know about. But you do not want to miss out on this amazing spot! They’re known for their rotisserie chicken, which you can see for yourself as it cooks right when you step inside. The entire restaurant is filled with the smell of slow-roasted chicken and delicious homestyle sides. If you arrive in the evening during this road trip, it’s a wonderful way to finish your day with a delicious dinner. The Smokin’ Oak Rotisserie & Grill, 4243 US-61, Red Wing, MN 55066, USA
We hope you enjoyed this hidden gem road trip through Minnesota. Feel free to let us know about your other favorite hidden places in Minnesota in the comments! And if you’re interested in more fun trips, check out our list of 10 amazing Minnesota road trips. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
The OIYS Visitor Center
Minnesota Road Trips May 27, 2022 Elisa Regulski What are the most unique places to spend the night in Minnesota? When you’re taking a Minnesota road trip, you don’t want to spend the night in a boring old motel. Shake things up a bit and stay inside the oldest operating lighthouse in Minnesota! Does that sound too good to be true? Well, you can do just that when you book a room at Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast in Two Harbors. Or if you prefer to rest inside an antique train car, head over to Northern Rail Traincar Inn. This hidden gem is also located in the town of Two Harbors, so you have lots of options in this lovely town. If you need more ideas, check out our full list of the most unique places to stay in Minnesota. What are the best outdoor activities in Minnesota?’ There are so many fun things to do outside in Minnesota. For an adventurous outing, visit Black Beach in Silver Bay. The black sand and red rocks will drop your jaw. Want to play a game of disc golf? Visit Acorn Park in Roseville. If it’s a tranquil stroll you’re looking for, visit Munsinger Gardens in St. Cloud. This destination really shines during spring, and best of all – admission is free! Take a look at our list of the best free outdoor activities in Minnesota for more great ideas. What are the most beautiful small towns in Minnesota? One of our favorite road trips in Minnesota is through our stunning small towns. Red Wing, nestled along the Mississippi River, is home to some delightful shops and restaurants. Grand Marais has one of the best art communities in the state and it was named one of America’s coolest small towns! We also love meandering through Pipestone. This beautiful place is home to the world’s largest peace pipe and the rock formations are absolutely amazing.
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Betsy Rathburn
Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.
Google Maps
This road trip starts in the small Minnesota town of Willmar. It’s about 63 miles southwest of St. Cloud, or 90 miles west of the Twin Cities, making it easy to get to for most south-central Minnesotans. The route is about 250 miles long, winding through some of southern Minnesota’s most interesting hidden gems to the final stop in Red Wing. The driving will take about 5 hours, so this could be a great weekend trip or even a day trip if you get started early enough! Check out the full route
- Frieda’s Cafe - Willmar
Google Maps Frieda’s Cafe is a tiny restaurant in Willmar, Minnesota. While it’s small in size, its menu is full of big flavor. Locals gather here for home-cooked food, especially breakfast. If you’re starting off early, this is a great spot to fuel yourself for the driving ahead of you. Try a pancake breakfast, a plate of bacon and eggs, or even French toast! Frieda’s Cafe is a must-visit! 511 Benson Ave SW, Willmar, MN 56201, USA
- Ramsey Falls - Redwood Falls
Sir king man/TripAdvisor South of Frieda’s Cafe is Ramsey Falls in the city of Redwood Falls, Minnesota. This free-to-visit waterfall is tucked into the 256-acre Ramsey Park. The waterfall alone makes it worth visiting, but there is also a small but lovely zoo. Between the waterfall, zoo, and the park’s playgrounds and paths, you’ll find plenty to like about this southern Minnesota hidden gem. Ramsey Falls is definitely one of the best Minnesota road trip attractions. 99 E Oak St, Redwood Falls, MN 56283, USA
- Domeier’s German Store - New Ulm
Lee Blackwood/Google Next up on this road trip is a stop at Domeier’s German Store. Found in New Ulm - a small town with a German heritage - this store is packed with German goodies. From home decor to snacks to souvenirs, there’s something for just about everyone here. When you’re done browsing, you may also want to take a quick tour around town to see the Hermann Heights Monument and the town’s 45-foot-tall glockenspiel. Domeier’s German Store is truly one of a kind! 1020 S Minnesota St, New Ulm, MN 56073, USA
- Minnemishinona Falls - Mankato
Ryan Gohlinghorst/Google Mankato is well known for being home to Minneopa Falls at Minneopa State Park. But there’s a lesser-known waterfall in town that is well worth visiting. Minnemishinona Falls is tucked away off a country road. But when you find it, you’ll be glad you went to the effort. The 42-foot-tall waterfall tumbles over a rocky cliff into a deep gorge. A pedestrian bridge over the gorge allows visitors to see the waterfall up close. If you’re a waterfall lover, you’ll be delighted to find this hidden gem waterfall! Don’t skip over Minnemishinona Falls. 40923 Judson Bottom Rd, North Mankato, MN 56003, USA
- Rapidan Dam Store - Mankato
Philip Stromme/Google Mankato is home to many restaurants, but Rapidan Dam Store is one of the most charming. Located near the Rapidan Dam, this hole-in-the-wall spot serves up great lunches. Stop in for a sandwich or burger to keep you going as you continue your road trip. No matter what you get, make sure you save some room for pie! The store is most known for this sweet treat, and they offer up plenty of delicious flavors. Do not miss out on this tiny but tasty restaurant in Michigan! Rapidan Dam Cafe, 54116 Glory Ln, Mankato, MN 56001, USA
- Cowling Arboretum
Albert Wu/Google Next up, the route leads to the city of Northfield. There is plenty to see in Northfield. If you’d like to explore, you won’t have trouble finding shopping or restaurants in the city’s bustling downtown. There are parks, picnic areas, and plenty of lovely spaces, including the Cowling Arboretum. This hidden gem is part of Carlton College, but it’s free to visit. About 10 miles of trails throughout the grounds lead to beautiful plant life, birds, butterflies, and water features. It’s a fantastic, nature-filled spot to take some respite from the road. Route 19, MN-19, Northfield, MN, USA
- Zumbrota Covered Bridge
Joshua S./Google After you’ve had your fill at the arboretum, the next stop is in the small town of Zumbrota. This town is home to the only remaining original covered bridge left in Minnesota, built in 1869. You’ll find it at Covered Bridge Park, where you can explore the grounds and walk across the more than 150-year-old bridge. It’s a great piece of Minnesota history and one that not many people know about. You’ll love exploring the oldest covered bridge in Minnesota. Zumbrota Covered Bridge, Unnamed Road, Zumbrota, MN 55992, USA
- The Smokin’ Oak Rotisserie & Grill
Jolene Knutson/Google The final stop on the route is in Red Wing, Minnesota. The Smokin’ Oak Rotisserie & Grill is a restaurant that few people outside of Red Wing know about. But you do not want to miss out on this amazing spot! They’re known for their rotisserie chicken, which you can see for yourself as it cooks right when you step inside. The entire restaurant is filled with the smell of slow-roasted chicken and delicious homestyle sides. If you arrive in the evening during this road trip, it’s a wonderful way to finish your day with a delicious dinner. The Smokin’ Oak Rotisserie & Grill, 4243 US-61, Red Wing, MN 55066, USA
We hope you enjoyed this hidden gem road trip through Minnesota. Feel free to let us know about your other favorite hidden places in Minnesota in the comments!
Frieda’s Cafe is a tiny restaurant in Willmar, Minnesota. While it’s small in size, its menu is full of big flavor. Locals gather here for home-cooked food, especially breakfast. If you’re starting off early, this is a great spot to fuel yourself for the driving ahead of you. Try a pancake breakfast, a plate of bacon and eggs, or even French toast! Frieda’s Cafe is a must-visit!
511 Benson Ave SW, Willmar, MN 56201, USA
Sir king man/TripAdvisor
South of Frieda’s Cafe is Ramsey Falls in the city of Redwood Falls, Minnesota. This free-to-visit waterfall is tucked into the 256-acre Ramsey Park. The waterfall alone makes it worth visiting, but there is also a small but lovely zoo. Between the waterfall, zoo, and the park’s playgrounds and paths, you’ll find plenty to like about this southern Minnesota hidden gem. Ramsey Falls is definitely one of the best Minnesota road trip attractions.
99 E Oak St, Redwood Falls, MN 56283, USA
Lee Blackwood/Google
Next up on this road trip is a stop at Domeier’s German Store. Found in New Ulm - a small town with a German heritage - this store is packed with German goodies. From home decor to snacks to souvenirs, there’s something for just about everyone here. When you’re done browsing, you may also want to take a quick tour around town to see the Hermann Heights Monument and the town’s 45-foot-tall glockenspiel. Domeier’s German Store is truly one of a kind!
1020 S Minnesota St, New Ulm, MN 56073, USA
Ryan Gohlinghorst/Google
Mankato is well known for being home to Minneopa Falls at Minneopa State Park. But there’s a lesser-known waterfall in town that is well worth visiting. Minnemishinona Falls is tucked away off a country road. But when you find it, you’ll be glad you went to the effort. The 42-foot-tall waterfall tumbles over a rocky cliff into a deep gorge. A pedestrian bridge over the gorge allows visitors to see the waterfall up close. If you’re a waterfall lover, you’ll be delighted to find this hidden gem waterfall! Don’t skip over Minnemishinona Falls.
40923 Judson Bottom Rd, North Mankato, MN 56003, USA
Philip Stromme/Google
Mankato is home to many restaurants, but Rapidan Dam Store is one of the most charming. Located near the Rapidan Dam, this hole-in-the-wall spot serves up great lunches. Stop in for a sandwich or burger to keep you going as you continue your road trip. No matter what you get, make sure you save some room for pie! The store is most known for this sweet treat, and they offer up plenty of delicious flavors. Do not miss out on this tiny but tasty restaurant in Michigan!
Rapidan Dam Cafe, 54116 Glory Ln, Mankato, MN 56001, USA
Albert Wu/Google
Next up, the route leads to the city of Northfield. There is plenty to see in Northfield. If you’d like to explore, you won’t have trouble finding shopping or restaurants in the city’s bustling downtown. There are parks, picnic areas, and plenty of lovely spaces, including the Cowling Arboretum. This hidden gem is part of Carlton College, but it’s free to visit. About 10 miles of trails throughout the grounds lead to beautiful plant life, birds, butterflies, and water features. It’s a fantastic, nature-filled spot to take some respite from the road.
Route 19, MN-19, Northfield, MN, USA
Joshua S./Google
After you’ve had your fill at the arboretum, the next stop is in the small town of Zumbrota. This town is home to the only remaining original covered bridge left in Minnesota, built in 1869. You’ll find it at Covered Bridge Park, where you can explore the grounds and walk across the more than 150-year-old bridge. It’s a great piece of Minnesota history and one that not many people know about. You’ll love exploring the oldest covered bridge in Minnesota.
Zumbrota Covered Bridge, Unnamed Road, Zumbrota, MN 55992, USA
Jolene Knutson/Google
The final stop on the route is in Red Wing, Minnesota. The Smokin’ Oak Rotisserie & Grill is a restaurant that few people outside of Red Wing know about. But you do not want to miss out on this amazing spot! They’re known for their rotisserie chicken, which you can see for yourself as it cooks right when you step inside. The entire restaurant is filled with the smell of slow-roasted chicken and delicious homestyle sides. If you arrive in the evening during this road trip, it’s a wonderful way to finish your day with a delicious dinner.
The Smokin’ Oak Rotisserie & Grill, 4243 US-61, Red Wing, MN 55066, USA
And if you’re interested in more fun trips, check out our list of 10 amazing Minnesota road trips.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
The OIYS Visitor Center
Minnesota Road Trips May 27, 2022 Elisa Regulski What are the most unique places to spend the night in Minnesota? When you’re taking a Minnesota road trip, you don’t want to spend the night in a boring old motel. Shake things up a bit and stay inside the oldest operating lighthouse in Minnesota! Does that sound too good to be true? Well, you can do just that when you book a room at Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast in Two Harbors. Or if you prefer to rest inside an antique train car, head over to Northern Rail Traincar Inn. This hidden gem is also located in the town of Two Harbors, so you have lots of options in this lovely town. If you need more ideas, check out our full list of the most unique places to stay in Minnesota. What are the best outdoor activities in Minnesota?’ There are so many fun things to do outside in Minnesota. For an adventurous outing, visit Black Beach in Silver Bay. The black sand and red rocks will drop your jaw. Want to play a game of disc golf? Visit Acorn Park in Roseville. If it’s a tranquil stroll you’re looking for, visit Munsinger Gardens in St. Cloud. This destination really shines during spring, and best of all – admission is free! Take a look at our list of the best free outdoor activities in Minnesota for more great ideas. What are the most beautiful small towns in Minnesota? One of our favorite road trips in Minnesota is through our stunning small towns. Red Wing, nestled along the Mississippi River, is home to some delightful shops and restaurants. Grand Marais has one of the best art communities in the state and it was named one of America’s coolest small towns! We also love meandering through Pipestone. This beautiful place is home to the world’s largest peace pipe and the rock formations are absolutely amazing.
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Betsy Rathburn
Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.
The OIYS Visitor Center
Minnesota Road Trips
May 27, 2022
Elisa Regulski
What are the most unique places to spend the night in Minnesota? When you’re taking a Minnesota road trip, you don’t want to spend the night in a boring old motel. Shake things up a bit and stay inside the oldest operating lighthouse in Minnesota! Does that sound too good to be true? Well, you can do just that when you book a room at Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast in Two Harbors. Or if you prefer to rest inside an antique train car, head over to Northern Rail Traincar Inn. This hidden gem is also located in the town of Two Harbors, so you have lots of options in this lovely town. If you need more ideas, check out our full list of the most unique places to stay in Minnesota. What are the best outdoor activities in Minnesota?’ There are so many fun things to do outside in Minnesota. For an adventurous outing, visit Black Beach in Silver Bay. The black sand and red rocks will drop your jaw. Want to play a game of disc golf? Visit Acorn Park in Roseville. If it’s a tranquil stroll you’re looking for, visit Munsinger Gardens in St. Cloud. This destination really shines during spring, and best of all – admission is free! Take a look at our list of the best free outdoor activities in Minnesota for more great ideas. What are the most beautiful small towns in Minnesota? One of our favorite road trips in Minnesota is through our stunning small towns. Red Wing, nestled along the Mississippi River, is home to some delightful shops and restaurants. Grand Marais has one of the best art communities in the state and it was named one of America’s coolest small towns! We also love meandering through Pipestone. This beautiful place is home to the world’s largest peace pipe and the rock formations are absolutely amazing.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
When you’re taking a Minnesota road trip, you don’t want to spend the night in a boring old motel. Shake things up a bit and stay inside the oldest operating lighthouse in Minnesota! Does that sound too good to be true? Well, you can do just that when you book a room at Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast in Two Harbors. Or if you prefer to rest inside an antique train car, head over to Northern Rail Traincar Inn. This hidden gem is also located in the town of Two Harbors, so you have lots of options in this lovely town. If you need more ideas, check out our full list of the most unique places to stay in Minnesota.
What are the best outdoor activities in Minnesota?’
There are so many fun things to do outside in Minnesota. For an adventurous outing, visit Black Beach in Silver Bay. The black sand and red rocks will drop your jaw. Want to play a game of disc golf? Visit Acorn Park in Roseville. If it’s a tranquil stroll you’re looking for, visit Munsinger Gardens in St. Cloud. This destination really shines during spring, and best of all – admission is free! Take a look at our list of the best free outdoor activities in Minnesota for more great ideas.
What are the most beautiful small towns in Minnesota?
One of our favorite road trips in Minnesota is through our stunning small towns. Red Wing, nestled along the Mississippi River, is home to some delightful shops and restaurants. Grand Marais has one of the best art communities in the state and it was named one of America’s coolest small towns! We also love meandering through Pipestone. This beautiful place is home to the world’s largest peace pipe and the rock formations are absolutely amazing.
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Betsy Rathburn
Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.
Betsy Rathburn
Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.
