Northfield

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Northfield's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Northfield Explorer
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local cafe. Afterward, check out the historic Carleton College campus.

afternoon
:

Visit the Northfield Historical Society to learn about the town's rich history. Take a leisurely stroll along the Cannon River.

evening
:

Dine at one of the town's famous restaurants. Wrap up your day at a local brewery for some craft beer.

day 2
Nature Lover's Delight
morning
:

Begin your morning with a hike at the nearby Nerstrand Big Woods State Park. Enjoy the beauty of nature and spot some wildlife.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch and relax in the park. Participate in some outdoor activities like birdwatching or fishing.

evening
:

Return to Northfield and enjoy a casual dinner. Explore local shops for unique finds before heading to bed.

day 3
Arts and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Northfield Arts Guild to admire local art exhibits. Take part in a morning art class if available.

afternoon
:

Discover more of Northfield's art scene by visiting galleries downtown. Have lunch at a trendy bistro.

evening
:

Attend an art show or theater performance at one of the local venues. Enjoy a light dinner in a nearby pub.

day 4
College Town Discovery
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a cozy diner near Carleton College. Visit the college's museums showcasing art and natural history.

afternoon
:

Wander around St. Olaf College and enjoy the stunning campus architecture. Have lunch at a student-friendly eatery.

evening
:

Catch a performance at one of the colleges' theaters. Enjoy dinner at a popular South Hill restaurant.

day 5
Historical Journey
morning
:

Visit the Northfield Historical Society to dive deep into the local history. Check out the James-Younger Gang exhibit.

afternoon
:

Explore the vintage shops in downtown Northfield. Have lunch at a classic sandwich shop.

evening
:

Take a guided ghost tour to learn about Northfield's haunted past. Enjoy a late-night snack at a local dessert shop.

day 6
Family Fun Day
morning
:

Spend the morning at Riverside Park with the family. Enjoy a picnic breakfast by the playground.

afternoon
:

Visit the Northfield Public Library and participate in kid-friendly programs. Take a trip to the Northfield Community Center for some recreational fun.

evening
:

Enjoy a family dinner at a casual restaurant with kids' menu options. End your day with ice cream at a local parlor.

day 7
Music and More
morning
:

Visit the Cannon Valley Winery for a morning tour and tasting. Enjoy breakfast at their scenic outdoor area.

afternoon
:

Take a music class or workshop offered in Northfield. Have lunch at a cafe known for live jazz music.

evening
:

Attend a local concert or open mic night. End the night with a dessert from a popular bakery.

day 8
Outdoor Thrills
morning
:

Kick off your day with mountain biking at a nearby trail. Enjoy the fresh morning air and stunning views.

afternoon
:

Challenge your friends to a round of golfing at a scenic course. Enjoy lunch at the clubhouse with scenic views.

evening
:

Grab dinner at a grill with outdoor seating. End the day with stories about your adventures around a campfire.

Discover Northfield

Read more in our Northfield 2024 Travel Guide.

Northfield Travel Guide