Things To Do
in New Brighton
New Brighton is a peaceful Minnesota suburb just northeast of Minneapolis, blending residential charm with accessible parks and waterways. The city sits along the Mississippi River corridor, offering scenic overlooks, trails, and family-friendly amenities. It serves as a convenient base for exploring the Twin Cities while maintaining a quieter, slower pace.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor recreation, local dining, and easy access to urban attractions within a short drive.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, savoring classic American dishes like pancakes and bacon. Afterward, embark on a guided walking tour of the Historic Center, where you will admire beautifully preserved architectural gems from the late 19th century. Stroll through the charming streets, taking in the rich history and vibrant community atmosphere.
After lunch at a nearby bistro, spend your afternoon visiting the New Brighton Historical Society Museum, which offers fascinating exhibits about the area’s past. Engage with knowledgeable volunteers who can share stories about the town's development and significant events. Wrap up your afternoon with a leisurely walk in the scenic Long Lake Park, enjoying the serene natural beauty.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a popular local restaurant known for its delicious seafood and farm-to-table options. After your meal, take a peaceful evening stroll along the beach, where you can watch the stars twinkle over the water. Conclude your day with a cozy bonfire on the beach, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories with friends.
Start your day at the beach with a refreshing swim in the calm waters of Lake Johanna. Afterward, grab a smoothie from a beachside kiosk and rent a paddleboard for some fun on the lake. The morning sun will energize you as you glide across the water, soaking in the natural surroundings.
In the afternoon, take part in a guided kayaking tour that explores the hidden coves and wildlife of the lake. Your guide will share insights about the local ecosystem while you paddle along the tranquil waters. After your adventure, unwind with a picnic lunch on the beach, enjoying the view and the gentle sound of the waves.
As evening approaches, join a beach volleyball game with locals and visitors alike to enjoy some friendly competition. Afterward, head to a beachfront restaurant for a casual dinner featuring fresh catches and tropical drinks. End your day by watching the sunset paint the sky in vibrant colors, creating a perfect backdrop for a memorable evening.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🚆Transit pass (monthly) | $70-100 |
| 🏠Apartment rent (1 BR in city center) | $1,100-1,600 |
| 🛒Groceries (monthly) | $250-400 |
| 🎟️Movie ticket | $12-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, family-friendly atmosphere with good parks
- Easy access to the Twin Cities by car or bus
- Parks, lakes, and river views within reach
- Safe, well-maintained neighborhoods
- Limited nightlife and high-density attractions within New Brighton itself
- Reliance on a car for most activities outside the town center
- Winter weather can be challenging for outdoor plans
- Smaller local dining scene compared to larger nearby cities
Places to Visit in New Brighton
Visit one of these nice places.
Elevated viewpoints along the river with sweeping views, ideal for sunrise and golden-hour shoots.
Wooded paths and lakeside scenery that provide seasonal color and tranquil compositions.
Quaint streets with seasonal colors, storefronts, and public art perfect for urban photography.
Food in New Brighton
New Brighton Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Minnesota comfort classic — a creamy casserole typically made with meat, vegetables, and a starch like tater tots or potatoes.
Must-Try!
Crispy or grilled walleye on a bun, a common way to enjoy Minnesota’s state fish by local eateries and diners.
A thin, soft potato flatbread of Norwegian heritage, often served with butter, sugar, or savory fillings.
A warming soup featuring Minnesota’s state grain, typically with mushrooms, cream, and herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, baked goods, and prepared foods; a brief drive from New Brighton.
Vendors selling regional produce, meats, cheeses, and ready-to-eat items—great for tasting Minnesota specialties.
Multicultural market with food stalls offering diverse street-food bites and chef-driven dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Being on time is valued for appointments, tours, and meetings.
A handshake or friendly nod is common; conversations are generally warm and direct.
Keep noise to a minimum in residential neighborhoods, especially in the evenings.
Safety
Tipping in New Brighton
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard is 15-20% at restaurants; rounded-up totals and tip jars may appear in casual venues.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; cash and mobile wallets are commonly used as well.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cold, snowy conditions; dress in layers, plan for short daylight hours, and enjoy peaceful, less crowded landscapes.
Milder days with budding trees; great for park walks and lake reflections as the city awakens.
Warm to hot days with long daylight; ideal for outdoor activities, river views, and festivals in nearby towns.
Crisp air and vivid foliage; excellent for scenic drives and autumn photography along the river and parks.
New Brighton at Night
Hiking in New Brighton
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of trails around interconnected lakes with scenic overlooks.
Forested paths and lakeside routes suitable for all levels.
Paved and natural trails around lakes and wooded areas near St. Paul.
Airports
How to reach New Brighton by plane.
Major airport serving the Twin Cities; about 25-35 minutes by car depending on traffic.
Smaller regional airport closer to central St. Paul; mainly general aviation and charter flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in suburban neighborhoods with good schools and parks.
Commuters who work in the city and value easy access to amenities.
Quiet, established neighborhoods with healthcare and services nearby.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A central sport in Minnesota with community leagues and outdoor rinks.
Local parks offer fields for youth and amateur leagues.
Community courts and school facilities provide regular play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting New Brighton.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most venues offer vegetarian options; ask for meat-free versions of local staples and hotdish-style dishes.