Whether you’re soaking up the sun in Minneapolis and Saint Paul or escaping to the lakes and prairies of Greater Minnesota, there’s no shortage of things to do in Minnesota in the summer. From hiking and biking to farmers markets and festivals, summer is when the Land of 10,000 Lakes truly shines. Let’s explore how you can enjoy the season and practice stewardship along the way.

Twin Cities Summer Activities 

1. Paddle the Chain of Lakes
   

   Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore Bde Maka Ska, Lake Harriet, or Lake Nokomis.

2. Attend a local festival
   

   Don’t miss the Uptown Art Fair, Aquatennial, or Highland Fest,  local art, food, and community pride on display.

3. Explore the Midtown Greenway
   

   Bike or walk this 5.5-mile urban trail that links to parks and neighborhoods across Minneapolis.

4. Visit the Saint Paul Farmers’ Market
   

   Stock up on local produce and support Minnesota’s growers.

5. Take a nature break at Minnehaha Falls
   

   A perfect picnic and people-watching spot, just minutes from downtown Minneapolis.

6. Try forest bathing in Theodore Wirth Park
   

   Unplug and reconnect with nature in one of the Twin Cities’ largest green spaces.

7. Catch a Twins game at Target Field
   

   Enjoy skyline views and community vibes, and don’t forget to take transit or bike there sustainably.

8. Enjoy open streets events
   

   Walk, roll, or dance your way down car-free avenues celebrating community and our natural places.

9. Explore Como Zoo and Conservatory
   

   Free and family-friendly, with beautiful gardens and ethical animal education.

Summer Adventures in Greater Minnesota 

10. Hike the Superior Hiking Trail
    

    Stretching along the North Shore, this trail offers sweeping views of Lake Superior and lush forest.

11. Camp in Itasca State Park
    

    See the headwaters of the Mississippi River and explore miles of pristine trails.

12. Visit a historic river town
    

    Red Wing, Stillwater, and Winona offer small-town charm, riverfront beauty, and local shopping.

13. Stargaze in the Boundary Waters
    

    Canoe, portage, and take in some of the darkest skies in the country.

14. Check out the Pipestone National Monument
    

    Learn about Indigenous history and sacred traditions tied to this one-of-a-kind place.

15. Bike the Root River Trail in Lanesboro
    

    Enjoy the charming downtown area, and peaceful river scenery.

16. Spend a weekend on Mille Lacs Lake
    

    Fish, paddle, or relax on one of Minnesota’s largest and most beautiful lakes.

17. Attend a county fair
    

    See livestock, eat local treats, and support 4-H programs across the state.

18. Explore the prairie at Glacial Lakes State Park
    

    Underrated and stunning, perfect for wildflower lovers and peaceful hikes.

19. Discover Minnesota’s waterfalls
    

    From Gooseberry Falls to Minneopa Falls, summer is the season to chase water.

20. Volunteer for a community clean-up
    

    Stewardship starts with small acts. Help care for Minnesota’s lakes and trails.

Upstream Picks for Summer Stewardship 

21. Join a local clean water event
    

    Check out Adopt-a-Drain or your watershed district’s events.

22. Plant native pollinator-friendly flowers
    

    Butterflies, bees, and birds will thank you.

23. Bike or take transit to reduce emissions
    

    Summer is the perfect season to ditch the car.

24. Pack out your trash on hikes and picnics
    

    Leave nature better than you found it.

25. Take the Upstream Pledge

    The Upstream Pledge consists of three things — two actions to care for our state and one shift in mindset to heal our divides. By taking the pledge you help reveal who we are here in Minnesota.