Minnesota RegionsThere are several distinct Minnesota regions. Each are these areas in Minnesota has a unique geography and attractions. The most commonly defined regions are the Twin Cities, the St. Croix River Valley, the Arrowhead, the Central Lakes area, the Red River Valley, Prairieland, and Bluff Country.
My mother's family were German farmers. Some of the family farmed in the northen Minnesota region of the state and others in the southern Minnesota region. My husband's Scandinavian family roots are the farming traditions of the northern and central Minnesota regions. His large extended family is scattered thoughout the state. Twin CitiesThe Minnesota Twin Cities of Saint Paul and Minneapolis are often referred to as simply "The Cities" by residents of the state. However, the two cities are quite distinct from each other. Our family has deep roots in both.We have now lived for more than 20 years in the capitol city of Saint Paul. This wonderful city is known for its culture, its well preserved late-Victorian architecture, the beautiful mansions along Summit Avenue, and its early Irish and German Catholic roots. Mark Twain visited St. Paul in 1882 on his trip up the Mississippi. He said:
"St. Paul is a wonderful town. It is put together in wonderful blocks of honest brick and stone, and has the air of intending to stay." ~Mark Twain, Life On the Mississippi Saint Paul Visitor Information
Minneapolis, with its broad boulevards, easily navigable grid layout, and modern downtown architecture, remains more connected to its Scandinavian/Lutheran heritage. My grandfather, on my father's side, was a Minneapolis police sergeant in the 1930's and 40's. My grandmother worked for the BurmaShave company when it was uncommon for women to work full time outside the home.
Minneapolis Visitor Information
Both cities have a wealth of water: the Mississippi River, many lakes and, as well, creeks and waterfalls all lie within their borders. Many of these are connected by parkways in the Chain of Lakes and the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway. All of this provides for wonderful outdoor activities without leaving the urban area. Some of the top things to see and do in the Twin Cities:
Central LakesThe Central Lakes Minnesota region can be reached by a two hour or so drive from the Twin Cities. This region is truly Minnesota's playground. Going north on any summer weekend, you will see many RVs or motorhomes and vehicles pulling a boat or a camping trailer. Winter treks will include vehicles carrying snowmobiles or four-wheelers.Central Minnesota is historically significant as a possible place of early American exploration by the Vikings in 1362, 130 years before Christopher Columbus. Some central Minnesota visitor attractions include:
Visit the Central Lakes Minnesota region's playground towns and cities:
Arrowhead RegionThe Arrowhead Region of Minnesota, so called because of its pointed shape, is located in the northeastern part of the state. The Arrowhead Region is quite rugged and dotted with hundreds of lakes. Minnesota visitors will want to explore:
Red River ValleyThe Red River Valley region of Minnesota is named for the Red River of the north which flows up to Canada along the western border of Minnesota. On the edge of the great plains, the Red River Valley was once swathed in tall prairie grass as far as the eye could see.This is a rich agricultural region, however the hills and valleys also include wonderful recreational areas. You will enjoy visiting:
The Moorhead area adds a touch of big-city life to the Red River Valley. It is home to two colleges, a symphony orchestra, opera company, community theater and an art museum. Especially interesting is the Heritage Hjemkomst Center, home of a replica Viking ship built by a local teacher and sailed from Duluth to Norway.
PrairielandIn a state known for thousands of lakes, countless miles of streams and rivers, and thousands of acres of wetlands, this region of Minnesota presents to travelers an very unique landscape. Resembling the great open spaces of the Dakotas more than the forested hills of eastern Minnesota, it doesn't seem as if Prairieland belongs to the state. What you will see when you visit Minnesota's prairieland:
St. Croix ValleyNestled between Minnesota and Wisconsin in a picturesque valley, the St. Croix River flows between bluffs of limestone and sandstone, beginning as a narrow gorge with steep vertical walls, then slowing and widening into the scenic Lake St. Some of the attractions that draw Minnesota visitors year-round to the St. Croix Valley:
Bluff CountryIn the southeastern Minnesota region corner, visitors will find a landscape not found anywhere else in the state. Along the Mississippi River, limestone bluffs tower above the valley floor, looking like sentinels. Much of this land resembles parts of the Appalachians or Ozarks, and it has a more southern climate than any other area in Minnesota.The western edge of Bluffland is flat to mildly rolling farm country, and as you drive east to the Mississippi River, the landscape becomes much more rugged and dramatic. This is a landscape of rolling plains and spectacular valleys. Some highlights of a visit to this part of Minnesota should include:
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