St. Louis Park

Day Trips

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

day 1
Explore Nature
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk at Lilydale Regional Park, enjoying the scenic views and wildlife. Don't forget your camera for some stunning nature shots!

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local cafe and then head to the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge for a peaceful afternoon hike. The variety of trails will keep you engaged and active.

evening
:

Wrap up with a picnic dinner at one of the park's scenic areas, enjoying the beautiful sunset. It's a perfect way to relax after a day of exploration.

day 2
City Attractions
morning
:

Visit the iconic Mall of America for some shopping and breakfast at one of its many eateries. The vast selection will surely satisfy your cravings.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon exploring the aquarium in the mall or take a ride on the indoor roller coaster. There’s always something exciting to do indoors.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a themed restaurant inside the mall for an unforgettable dining experience. Afterward, catch a movie at the cinema to end your day perfectly.

day 3
Art and Culture
morning
:

Start with a visit to the Walker Art Center to view contemporary art exhibits. The space is both inspiring and thought-provoking.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch in the neighborhood and then explore the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, where you can enjoy outdoor art installations. It's a blend of nature and creativity.

evening
:

Attend a live performance at a local theater to soak in some Minnesota culture. Whether it's a play, dance, or concert, you’ll be thrilled by the vibrant arts scene.

day 4
Active Day Out
morning
:

Rent a bike and ride on the Midtown Greenway to enjoy the scenic urban landscape. The fresh air will invigorate your senses.

afternoon
:

Stop for lunch at a local park followed by more biking or rollerblading. You can also find trails that lead to other attractions.

evening
:

Take a leisurely walk along the lakes at sunset, soaking in the tranquility. Consider dinner at a lakeside restaurant for a perfect ending to your active day.

day 5
Foodie Adventure
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to a local farmer's market to grab fresh ingredients for later. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby cafe showcasing local flavors.

afternoon
:

Sign up for a cooking class to learn how to make a local dish. This hands-on experience will enrich your culinary skills.

evening
:

Dine at a highly-rated restaurant to indulge in a multi-course meal prepared by a renowned chef. Savor every bite as you reflect on the day's culinary journey.

day 6
Nature and History
morning
:

Visit Fort Snelling State Park to explore the rich history and beautiful landscapes. Take a guided tour to learn more about the area’s significance.

afternoon
:

After lunch, hike one of the park’s scenic trails, immersing yourself in nature. Keep an eye out for local wildlife along the way.

evening
:

Choose a cozy restaurant nearby for dinner with a historical twist. Experience dining with a touch of Minnesota’s storied past.

day 7
Adventure on the Water
morning
:

Start with a splash by renting a kayak or canoe at one of the local lakes. Enjoy the peacefulness of paddling while taking in the morning sun.

afternoon
:

After your water adventure, enjoy lunch at an outdoor café. Then, relax and sunbathe by the water for a leisurely afternoon.

evening
:

Join a sunset boat cruise to soak in the breathtaking views while socializing. Wind down with dinner at a riverside restaurant to end the day perfectly.

day 8
Learn and Discover
morning
:

Start your day at the Minnesota History Center, diving into the state's rich history through engaging exhibits. The interactive displays will ignite your curiosity.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at the museum café, followed by a stroll through the nearby historical park. The grounds offer additional insights into local culture and history.

evening
:

Head over to a local bookstore for a cozy evening of browsing and reading. Consider grabbing dinner at a relaxed eatery nearby to reflect on what you've learned.

day 9
Shopping Spree
morning
:

Kick off your day at the local boutiques and antique shops in St. Louis Park. Discover unique finds that reflect local craftsmanship.

afternoon
:

Take a break for lunch at a trendy farm-to-table restaurant to refuel. Continue shopping at different plazas featuring various brands and styles.

evening
:

End your shopping adventure with cocktails at a rooftop bar, enjoying views of the cityscape. It’s an ideal way to celebrate your successful day of shopping.

day 10
Music and Nightlife
morning
:

Spend a relaxing morning at a local coffee shop, listening to live music while you sip your brew. It's a great way to start your day energized.

afternoon
:

Explore music-themed exhibits at the local museum or venue to learn about the area’s music history. Enjoy lunch at a casual spot that features live performances.

evening
:

Catch a concert at a well-known local venue to immerse yourself in Minnesota’s music scene. Celebrate the vibrant nightlife after the show with drinks at a nearby bar.

Discover St. Louis Park

Read more in our St. Louis Park 2024 Travel Guide.

St. Louis Park Travel Guide