Minnesota
The state of Minnesota offers not only thriving metropolitan areas and small-town Midwestern charm, but also a diverse collection of natural resources and outdoor attractions ranging from its famous lakes and north-woods regions to rolling hills, open prairie and river valleys.
Let’s take a look at all the great opportunities the state of Minnesota has to offer and discover the best place to take your next group trip.
Brainerd
A visit to Paul Bunyan Country in the Brainerd Lakes area offers over 450 lakes with many beaches and resorts. The two main lake chains in the area are the Gull Lake Chain and the Whitefish Chain and provide a great opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the state of Minnesota.
One of the top attractions in the area is the Brainerd International Raceway. The raceway boasts both a road course and a drag strip and attracts some of the best competition the Midwest has to offer. The Annual Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals takes place in mid-August every year and is considered “the granddaddy of motorsports in Minnesota.” Top fun-filled summer festivals include the Brainerd Fourth of July American Celebration and the Lakes Bluegrass Festival in nearby Pine River.
Duluth
The city of Duluth boasts a prime location on the shores of Lake Superior. One of the best ways to experience the city and the lake is on the Vista Fleet Cruise Ships, a fully narrated sightseeing cruise of the Duluth-Superior Harbor, with the opportunity to see the famous aerial lift-bridge along with ocean-going ships from around the world. The Vista Fleet offers dinner, lunch and dessert cruises; and a fleet to accommodate any occasion.
The city of Duluth has a rich and fascinating history as a port town. One unique way to learn about it is to visit the Great Lakes Floating Maritime Museum and the Glensheen Historic Estate. The Great Lakes Floating Maritime Museum is a massive, stillfloating, retired iron-ore ocean vessel that has been converted to a museum. There is also a converted Coast Guard ship that is now used to inform groups about the many perils of sailing on the Great Lakes.
The Glensheen Historic Estate located on the northern end of the Duluth shoreline offers tours that provide a glimpse into the aristocratic life of some of Minnesota’s most famous people, detailing the history of the city.
Travel up the North Shore of Lake Superior from Duluth to discover not only breathtaking natural beauty, but also a multitude of “must-sees,” from the popular Split Rock Lighthouse and the beautiful Gooseberry Falls National Park to the miles of rocky shoreline seen from the scenic byways.
By Jaron Balgaard
Courtesy of leisuregrouptravel.com
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