8+ Fun Day Trips From Rochester, MN (Within 2 Hours)
Rochester, Minnesota has a lot to offer for visitors. And within just a few hours, you can access even more great destinations to explore.
Here are some great day trips from Rochester, MN to take this year to explore more of what Southern Minnesota has to offer.
Best Day Trips from Rochester, MN
I’ve compiled a list of 8 great options of places to visit that are all within 2 hours (give or take a few minutes) of Rochester.
These are all perfect for those days when you aren’t sure what to do but really want to get out of the house!
1. Winona, MN
Drive Time: 58 minutes
Mileage: 54 miles
Winona is well known for its stunning architecture and fantastic outdoor recreation, within such a short distance of the Twin Cities.
Located just one hour from Rochester, you’ll find that Winona may be one of the easiest and best options for a day spent exploring!
Things to Do
Mississippi River Boat Tour– Take a 1.5-hour cruise down the Mississippi River and learn about the area, plus see wildlife such as deer and eagles.
Hiking– Winona has beautiful scenery, and many people visit to hike. A favorite trail is the Sugar Loaf Bluff, which overlooks the city.
Historical Buildings– Wandering and doing some sightseeing will allow you to learn about the history of Winona.
Art Museum– Even without going inside the museums, you’ll be fascinated by the beautiful stained glass and architecture.
Where to Eat
Lakeview Drive Inn– Winona’s oldest restaurant, built in 1938, is an original, family-owned restaurant looking to give you the best food and service!
Nate & Ally’s Frozen Treat Creations— Serves self-serve frozen yogurt, ice cream malts and shakes, smoothies, and edible cookie dough. 🤤
2. Eau Claire, WI
Drive Time: 1 hour 58 minutes
Mileage: 95 miles
Eau Claire is the only location on this list that crosses state borders because this day will take you over to Wisconsin!
Here are a few things to add to your list of must-dos in Eau Claire!
Things to Do
Wisconsin Logging Camp Museum– Learn the history behind the lives of lumberjacks. The logging camp is open from June to September each year.
US National Kubb Championship– A unique event where players knock down wooden kubbs using batons on the playing field. The event is held in July each year.
Battlefield Paintball– Just about 30 minutes south of Eau Claire, you’ll find Osseo, where you can have some fun with family and friends by playing paintball on 70 acres of land!
Mount Simon– Many people hike, rock climb, and cliff jump at Mount Simon.
The Local Store– This store has a variety of locally made products for sale and others that are geared towards Wisconsin in downtown Eau Claire.
Eau Claire River– Loopy’s in Chippewa Falls, just 20 minutes north of Eau Claire has both kayaks and canoes available to rent to enjoy the cool water.
Where to Eat
The Lakely– A local favorite, offering a locally sourced menu with seasonal changes. They serve midwest favorite comfort foods.
Milwaukee Burger Company– With a full menu of burgers and cheese from Wisconsin, the Cheese State, you won’t be let down.
Norske Nook– Serves delicious Scandinavian desserts and homemade pies. They also have breakfast and lunch foods, all made from scratch.
3. Harmony, MN
Drive Time: 52 minutes
Mileage: 47 miles
Harmony is a small town that offers one of the best day trips in southern Minnesota, that is well known for being home to many of Minnesota’s Amish communities.
There are also two fascinating caves, both just under an hour away. Check out these great activities in Harmony for your whole family.
Things to Do
While visiting Harmony, you’ll find several ways to experience life in the way that the Amish live. The area is home to Minnesota’s largest Amish settlements.
Tour the Old Order Community– Learn about the Amish culture and history with Amish Tours of Harmony.
Visit an Amish Store– Support those who live in Harmony and see what goods they make at one of their stores.
Niagra Cave– You’ll hike down a set of stairs into a cave, discovered nearly 100 years ago in 1924, and also see an underground waterfall.
Mystery Caves State Park– The longest cave in Minnesota and one of only a few accessible ones, with over 13 miles of underground passages.
4th of July Celebrations– Harmony is known to have one of the best Independence Day celebrations in the state with many events to participate in and of course, a firework show.
Where to Eat
BReaKeRs– You can’t miss this cute, little pink shack in Harmony, serving deli sandwiches, wraps, and salads. They also have ice cream and shakes.
Estelle’s Eatery and Bar– Rotating their menus seasonally, and all of their food is handmade! They have rice bowls, pasta, and more to choose from.
4. Taylors Falls, MN
Drive Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
Mileage: 124 miles
Taylors Falls is the furthest day trip from Rochester on this list but has some of the best activities to fill your day.
I would almost consider it one of the most worthwhile options!
Things to Do
Interstate State Park– Lying half in Minnesota and half in Wisconsin, check out the Glacial Potholes and Ice Age Trail and the Sandstone Bluffs trail for great views of the river bluffs.
Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours— If you’d rather relax during your visit to Taylors Falls, book a boat tour along the St. Croix River.
Franconia Sculpture Park– Here you’ll find 50 acres of artist-centered sculptures to wander around and admire.
Where to Eat
Drive-In Restaurant– It’s fun to venture back to the ’50s here. Carhops in poodle skirts are ready to serve you from mid-April through Mid-October.
Dalles House Restaurant and Lounge– A dinner menu with steaks, seafood, and pasta. Each meal is served with its famous popovers and homemade sweet butter.
5. The Twin Cities
Drive Time: 1 hour 28 minutes
Mileage: 88 miles
The Twin Cities are much more than just Minneapolis and St. Paul. There are so many surrounding cities that all have fantastic things to do.
Whether you’re looking to go hiking or get in some shopping, they’ve got it all!
Plus, it’s only 1.5 hours from Rochester, so it’s a nice, easy drive!
Things to Do
Mall of America– Over 520 stores and 50 restaurants, spread over 3 floors. It’s the largest shopping mall in the United States!
Nickelodeon Universe– For the little ones, check out this indoor theme park, at the Mall of America, with plenty of rides and games to keep them busy.
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden– This free-to-visit outdoor art exhibit is home to more than 40 pieces of unique artwork.
Minnehaha Falls– A trip to Minneapolis wouldn’t be complete without seeing this iconic waterfall. A short hike and you’ll reach the 53-foot waterfall, right in the center of Minneapolis.
Professional Sports Game– Football (Vikings), hockey (Wild), basketball (Timberwolves), and baseball (Twins) teams all have games in the area.
Minnesota State Fair– Enjoy some of the best fair food around, visit the animals, enjoy some rides, and spend time with family.
Where to Eat
Fuddruckers– A great place for burger lovers where you can choose your burger and then customize it with toppings.
Matt’s Bar– Give a famous Jucy Lucy a try, the burger with cheese stuffed in the middle.
Bebe Zito Ice Cream– Head here for dessert with homemade, small-batch ice cream in very unique, seasonal flavors.
6. Red Wing, MN
Drive Time: 53 minutes
Mileage: 46 miles
Red Wing is a fantastic place for outdoor lovers, shoppers, and foodies alike. There are many things to do while you spend your day exploring on your day trip in Southern MN.
Things to Do
Barn Bluff– Outdoor lovers won’t be disappointed on their visit to Red Wing, especially after hiking this beautiful trail.
Frontenac State Park– Home to the Lake Pepin Overlook which is another great option for hiking in Reg Wing.
Welch Village– For skiers and snowboarders, this ski resort is great for hitting the slopes this winter.
Falconer Vineyards and Winery– Wine lovers will love this family-owned vineyard for trying some locally made wine.
Red Wing Farmer’s Market– A summertime favorite for fresh produce. There also is a winter market in November and December, which is unique to Red Wing!
Uffda Shop– You’ll find a variety of Scandinavian gifts to bring home as souvenirs for yourself, friends, and family.
Where to Eat
Wisteria Twig– Acute little tea room in Red Wing and is a great place to grab breakfast or lunch while you explore the area.
Let Me Cheese U– The name speaks for itself. Serving signature or build-your-own mac ‘n’ cheese, pizzas, wings, and more, there’s nothing to be disappointed about here.
Red Wing Brewery– If you’re a fan of breweries and burgers, this is perfect for you! They serve craft brews, burgers, and pizzas.
7. Stillwater, MN
Drive Time: 1 hour 31 minutes
Mileage: 93 miles
Stillwater has been voted one of the best places to visit in Minnesota many times, and for good reason! It’s a beautiful town with character and a lot to do.
Consider these great activities when planning your day trip from Rochester, MN to Stillwater.
Things to Do
Stillwater Balloons— When visiting Stillwater, a must-do is to go for a hot air balloon ride with either a partner or by yourself.
Biercycle Adventures— Taking a bike ride through Stillwater with is a fun way to tour and explore the city of Stillwater.
Stillwater Riverboats– If you’re visiting Stillwater in the summer, book a dinner cruise and enjoy a buffet dinner as you float down the St. Croix River.
Afton Alps Ski Resort– For adventure seekers and outdoors lovers, head to ski or snowboard and enjoy the 50 runs, just 30 minutes north of Stillwater.
Historic Main Street– Take a walk down main street and shop or eat in over 100 stores and restaurants, many of which are locally owned.
Historic Lift Bridge– The bridge was built in 1931 and is one of the few operating ones in the U.S.!
Stillwater Ghost Walks– If you’re up for some history and a little scare, you can hear about real ghost stories and paranormal experiences that have all taken place in Stillwater.
Where to Eat
Gasthaus Bavarian Hunter– For the past 55 years, they have been serving up fantastic German food, such as schnitzels, sausages, and more.
Papa’s Rooftop Restaurant– Located on the top of the Water Street Inn, you’ll have great views of the St. Croix River, but they’re only open for the summer.
Minnesota Nice Cream– Find fun, colorful cones with a variety of delicious ice cream flavors at this dessert shop.
8. Wabasha, MN
Drive Time: 53 minutes
Mileage: 45 miles
Wabasha is right along the Wisconsin border and is a great southern Minnesota day trip because there are plenty of unique experiences to try.
Things to Do
LARK Toys– Found in Kellogg, it’s been named one of the best toy stores in Minnesota, and the world! Riding the hand-carved carousel is one of the highlights of this store.
National Eagle Center– A unique place to experience with your kiddos. Each eagle was saved from not surviving in the wild, and you can learn about them here.
Nelson Cheese Factory– Being that Wabasha is just minutes from the Wisconsin border, it’s not surprising that you’ll find a cheese factory here, which made cheese for over 100 years!
Where to Eat
Wabasha is a small town with limited options for places to eat.
Beth’s Twin Bluffs Cafe– Serving a variety of breakfast foods, sandwiches, burgers, and seafood. Beth’s is across the border in Nelson.
Best Family-Friendly Day Trip from Rochester, MN
The most family-friendly day trip from Rochester, MN on this list is the Twin Cities. Because of the size of this area, there are many things to do for the entire family.
Here are the best things to do with kids when you’re visiting the Twin Cities area.
The Minnesota Children’s Museum is a great place to bring your kids to learn and have fun, all at the same time. There are many exhibits for kids to play with.
The Mall of America has fun places such as Nickelodeon Universe, the Crayola Experience, and the Lego Store.
In the summer, check out Valley Fair and Bunker Beach Water Park for fun outdoor activities with the kiddos.
Best Day Trip from Rochester, MN for Couples
Of the places on this list, Stillwater comes in as the best day trip for couples.
For a unique romantic experience, either take a gondola ride with Gondola Romantica or a hot air balloon ride with Stillwater Balloons
To bring out the creative side in each other, head to Kari’s Create and Paint Studio. You’re able to choose a canvas and paint together.
For dinner, head over to Tokyo Pot. This Japanese-style restaurant allows diners to cook their own food. You’ll receive your food and cook it in a pot on the table.
After dinner, end your day trip from Rochester, MN at Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory for some delicious, homemade chocolates, caramel apples, and more.
Weekend Trips from Rochester, MN
If you have more than just one day for a trip from Rochester, MN, you may be willing to drive a bit further.
Here are two fantastic locations for weekend trips from Rochester, MN. These are closer to 4 hours each.
Park Rapids, MN
Drive Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Mileage: 273 miles
Park Rapids is located just under 5 hours northwest of Rochester. With many historic and iconic locations, this city is the perfect location to travel to.
Things to Do
Main Street– One of the best things to do in Park Rapids is to visit Main Street where you’ll find small, locally-owned shops and restaurants all along the street.
Old Park Theater– It has been operated by the same couple for 48 years and still has the original marquee. It’s a great spot to catch a movie.
Dorset– A must-do for those visiting Park Rapids is to visit Dorset, which has been given the name, The Restaurant Capital of the World.
Itasca State Park– Just 25 miles north of Park Rapids, the Mississippi Headwaters are found at this state park.
Where to Eat
Companero’s– From the delicious main courses to their desserts (try the fried ice cream!) you will leave so satisfied at Companero’s.
Rapid River Logging Camp– You’ll be served an all-you-can-eat family-style meal in an old logging camp, which makes quite the experience.
Where to Stay
If you’re staying for the weekend, then consider booking a stay at this beautiful Lakeside Cottage, named The Sage House, which is complete with a fireplace and a full kitchen.
Duluth, MN
Drive Time: 3 hours 22 minutes
Mileage: 227 miles
Duluth is one of the best places to visit in all of Minnesota. With the breathtaking views of Lake Superior and the incredible North Shore, it’s no wonder why people love it.
With just over a 3-hour drive, you can make Duluth your perfect weekend trip from Rochester, MN.
Things to Do
Canal Park– Take a drive down towards Lake Superior and make a stop here for some shopping and eating.
Leaf Erickson Park– Take in the beautiful flower gardens in the summer. Follow the sidewalk down to the lakeshore and spend time looking for sea glass.
Bentleyville Tour of Lights– In the winter, Canal Park lights up with over 4 million Christmas lights and celebrates the holidays.
North Shore of Lake Superior– You’ll find 8 beautiful state parks on the North Shore, stretching from Duluth all the way to Grand Portage.
Gooseberry Falls State Park and Tettegouche State Park are favorites amongst visitors, as there are great views and good hiking.
Where to Eat
Va Bene– Serves up amazing authentic Italian food and is well known for its fantastic views of Lake Superior and the aerial lift bridge.
The Portland Malt Shoppe– Located just above Lake Superior and is well known for its delicious malts and ice cream, but it’s only open in the summer.
Where to Stay
On a weekend trip, you’ll definitely want to book a stay at Pier B Resort, located right in Canal Park, within walking distance of some of the best activities.
The Wrap-Up: Day Trips from Rochester, MN
When you’ve run out of things to do in your hometown, taking a day trip to explore more of your state is the perfect thing to do.
I hope that you are able to use this list of day trips from Rochester, MN to plan a fun-packed adventure for yourself or your family.
