Things To Do
in Northfield
Northfield is a charming town located in the state of Minnesota in the United States. It is known for its scenic beauty, with the Cannon River running through the town and surrounding green spaces. The town is home to two prestigious educational institutions, St. Olaf College and Carleton College, which contribute to a lively and intellectual atmosphere.
Northfield also has a rich history, including the infamous failed bank robbery by the James-Younger Gang in 1876.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local cafe. Afterward, check out the historic Carleton College campus.
Visit the Northfield Historical Society to learn about the town's rich history. Take a leisurely stroll along the Cannon River.
Dine at one of the town's famous restaurants. Wrap up your day at a local brewery for some craft beer.
Begin your morning with a hike at the nearby Nerstrand Big Woods State Park. Enjoy the beauty of nature and spot some wildlife.
Pack a picnic lunch and relax in the park. Participate in some outdoor activities like birdwatching or fishing.
Return to Northfield and enjoy a casual dinner. Explore local shops for unique finds before heading to bed.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming small-town atmosphere with a strong sense of community.
- Access to high-quality educational institutions, including Carleton College and St. Olaf College.
- Recreational opportunities with parks, trails, and the nearby Cannon River.
- Rich history and vibrant arts scene, including various local events and festivals.
- Low crime rates and safe environment for families.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, which may require commuting to nearby cities.
- Higher cost of living compared to surrounding rural areas.
- Fewer entertainment and shopping options compared to larger urban centers.
- Cold winters that may not be appealing to everyone.
- Potential lack of diversity in demographics and cultural offerings.
Best Activities in Northfield
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Scenic biking trail along the Cannon River with beautiful views of the surrounding nature.
Expansive natural area with hiking trails, prairies, and woodlands, perfect for outdoor exploration and birdwatching.
Opportunity to enjoy a round of golf on a well-maintained course amidst the picturesque Northfield countryside.
Tours
Uncover the best of Northfield with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Northfield
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning view of the campus, including Old Main and the natural surroundings.
Provides picturesque natural scenery and walking trails for photo opportunities.
Scenic river views and opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and photography.
Provides a panoramic view of Northfield from its rooftop, including the nearby colleges and natural surroundings.
Food in Northfield
Northfield Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Minnesota classic, this burger features a molten cheese center and is best savored at The HideAway Coffeehouse and Wine Bar.
Must-Try!
A hearty casserole made with meat, mixed vegetables, and a layer of crispy tater tots. Visit The Ole Store Restaurant for an authentic taste.
Freshly caught walleye fillet, perfectly fried and served on a bun – a must-try at The Tavern of Northfield.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Northfield better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held downtown, this market offers an array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats representing the local food scene.
This charming pub offers delectable street food options like bratwurst, fish and chips, and savory pies, perfect for a casual outdoor dining experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Northfield, it's important to be mindful of personal space and avoid getting too close when interacting with others. This helps to respect individual boundaries and comfort levels.
Many people in Northfield value punctuality, so it's considered respectful to arrive on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings.
Using polite language, saying
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Northfield with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Northfield
Ensure a smooth experience
In Northfield, United States, tipping is a common practice in the service industry. It is customary to leave a gratuity of 15-20% of the total bill at restaurants, bars, and for other services such as hair salons, taxis, and hotels.
Payment in Northfield, United States, is commonly made using credit or debit cards, cash, or digital payment methods such as mobile wallets and online transfers. Most businesses and establishments accept major credit and debit cards, and contactless payment options are also increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Northfield.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Northfield, with milder temperatures and blooming flowers. Expect pleasant outdoor activities and the start of festival season.
Summer offers warm temperatures and long daylight hours, making it perfect for outdoor adventures, festivals, and farm tours in Northfield.
Fall is a beautiful time to visit Northfield, with colorful foliage and harvest festivals. Enjoy cool crisp air and scenic drives.
Winter in Northfield can be cold and snowy, offering opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, as well as cozy indoor activities and holiday events.
Northfield at Night
Hiking in Northfield
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
This area offers a network of trails through wetlands and woodlands, ideal for a peaceful hike surrounded by nature.
A scenic trail that provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for hikers of all levels.
Located nearby, it offers a variety of trails through diverse ecosystems, including mountains and forests.
This preserve features a variety of trail options, allowing for easy to moderate hiking while enjoying the lush scenery.
A beautiful location known for its rugged terrain and picturesque views, suitable for more experienced hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Northfield through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Northfield by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in Minnesota, located about 40 miles from Northfield.
One of the busiest airports in the world, located approximately 400 miles from Northfield.
Located about 395 miles from Northfield, it serves as a major airport for domestic and international flights.
Located approximately 400 miles southwest of Northfield, it serves the Kansas City metropolitan area.
Located about 210 miles from Northfield, providing various domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly European descent, making up the largest demographic group in Northfield.
Individuals of Hispanic or Latino origin, representing a significant percentage of the population.
People identifying as Black or African American, a growing demographic in the area.
Individuals of Asian descent, contributing to the diversity of the community.
People identifying with two or more races, reflecting increasing multiculturalism.
Individuals identifying as Native American, a smaller but important demographic.
Includes individuals from various other ethnic backgrounds not specifically categorized.
The Soul of Northfield
Discover the essence of Northfield through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is a popular sport in Northfield, played by various age groups in local leagues and schools.
Basketball is widely played in Northfield, with many youth and adult leagues available, along with high school teams.
Baseball has a strong presence in Northfield, with local teams and community involvement in youth leagues.
Track and field events are popular in Northfield, especially in schools, where students participate in various competitions.
Swimming is a common recreational activity and sport in Northfield, with access to local pools and swim teams.
Cross country running is a popular sport at the high school level, with many students participating in regional competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Northfield.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several eateries in Northfield cater to vegetarians and vegans, providing innovative plant-based dishes and alternatives to accommodate these dietary choices.
Many dining establishments in Northfield offer gluten-free menu items, from pizzas and sandwiches to baked goods, ensuring those with gluten sensitivities can dine with ease.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Northfield with these cultural adventures.