Islands - Expert Travel Info & Tips: From Islands, to Mountains, & Everything In Between

Minnesota's Scenic Wetlands Escape Under An Hour From Minneapolis Is A Beauty With Hiking And Wildlife

staff@islands.com (Melanie Johnson) — Sun, 25 Oct 2026 22:00:00 +0000

Geese, trumpeter swans, and sandhill cranes are just a few of the many bird species you can spot while enjoying a long hike in this peaceful wildlife refuge.

Michigan's 10 Best Piers For Fishing, Sightseeing, And Relaxing On The Water

staff@islands.com (Joe Orovic) — Sun, 25 Oct 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Climb a historic lighthouse tower, enjoy a sunset over the water, or cast for trout and salmon with a visit to these 10 scenic piers in Michigan.

Near Minneapolis Is A Charming City With Scenic Lakes, Vibrant Shopping, And Local Eats

staff@islands.com (Nola Sarkisian-Miller) — Fri, 23 Oct 2026 23:45:00 +0000

This small Minnesota city boasts seven lakes, approximately 150 different restaurants, and numerous shops to keep you busy during a day trip or vacation.

Half An Hour From Minneapolis Is A Tranquil Suburb With A Charming Downtown, Local Eats, And Outdoor Fun

staff@islands.com (Joe Orovic) — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 09:45:00 +0000

Due to its proximity to the Twin Cities, this quiet suburb that's less than an hour's drive from Minneapolis is a great place for weary travelers to wind down.

Minnesota's Largest State Park Is A Riverside Recreational Hub With Scenic Camping, Hiking, And Canoeing

staff@islands.com (Danno Wise) — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

If you're seeking a secluded getaway with miles of hiking trails and incredible paddling, this state park in Minnesota needs to be on your radar.

Less Than An Hour From Minneapolis Is A Minnesota Park With Bison, Trails, And Lake Views

staff@islands.com (Stacey Coles) — Sun, 11 Oct 2026 10:45:00 +0000

Home to bison paddocks, playgrounds, picnic areas, and trails overlooking the Mississippi River and Spring Lake, this park is a scenic escape from Minneapolis.

Between St. Cloud And Grand Forks Is Minnesota's State Park With Trails, Wildlife, And Riverfront Leisure

staff@islands.com (Melanie Johnson) — Sat, 10 Oct 2026 21:45:00 +0000

Minnesota's prairie country offers more than wide-open views at this peaceful state park, where a winding river brings wildlife and outdoor adventure.

Near Minneapolis Is An Idyllic Nature Center With Wetlands, Trails, And Wildlife

staff@islands.com (Melanie Johnson) — Fri, 09 Oct 2026 21:45:00 +0000

Wander boardwalk trails through serene wetlands and observe local wildlife at this tranquil nature sanctuary minutes from Minneapolis.

'Minnesota's Last True Wilderness' Is An Untamed Recreation Area With Camping, Swimming, And Scenic Trails

staff@islands.com (Stephen Hanson) — Fri, 09 Oct 2026 18:45:00 +0000

It's a record 500-square-mile peat bog teeming with unique plants and wildlife you can watch from a boardwalk, along with campsites, trails, and a sandy beach.

Under An Hour From Minneapolis Is A Scenic River Park With A Waterfall, Trails, And Connected Green Spaces

staff@islands.com (Stephen Hanson) — Wed, 07 Oct 2026 23:45:00 +0000

You don't have to travel far from the Twin Cities to find a Minnesota river park that combines a gorgeous waterfall with haunting ruins.

Surrounding St. Paul Is Minnesota's Fun Day Trip City Filled With Idyllic Nature Escapes And Tasty Restaurants

staff@islands.com (Eugenia Lazaris) — Wed, 07 Oct 2026 16:45:00 +0000

Not far from St. Paul is a fun city filled with scenic parks, culinary delights, and fun activities, making it the perfect destination for a day trip.

This Lake Park Under An Hour From Minneapolis Has Camping, Boating, And Serene Trails

staff@islands.com (Anahid Akkam) — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 21:00:00 +0000

Want some quiet adventure? Grab a friend and take on a trail, cast a line for some fish, or camp with a group, all within an hour's drive of the city.

Forget Florida, Retire To A Top-Rated Midwest County With Lakes, Trails, And A Vibrant City Instead

staff@islands.com (Joe Orovic) — Sun, 27 Sep 2026 15:45:00 +0000

This Minnesota county has tons of beautiful parks, green spaces, and lakes, and is highly-ranked for the cost of living and quality of life.

Minnesota's Premier State Park Under An Hour From Sioux Falls Is A Lake Paradise To Camp, Fish, And Boat

staff@islands.com (Danno Wise) — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 21:45:00 +0000

Home to one of the only lakes in this corner of The North Star State, locals flock to this state park for endless outdoor fun in every season.

The 10 Biggest Things That Surprise Tourists Visiting The Midwest

staff@islands.com (Kate Mothes) — Wed, 23 Sep 2026 14:30:00 +0000

There are 12 states that are considered part of the Midwest region of the United States and even other Americans can have a unique cultural experience there.

About Half An Hour From Minneapolis Is A Scenic Lake Park With Fishing, Swimming, Camping, And Boating

staff@islands.com (C. M. Ramsburg) — Tue, 22 Sep 2026 02:45:00 +0000

Just outside Minneapolis, this lakeside getaway offers outdoor recreation, family-friendly amenities, peaceful scenery, and plenty to enjoy year-round.

One Of The Best Oktoberfests In The US Is A Two-Weekend Festival With Craft Brews And Cultural Flair In Minnesota

staff@islands.com (Ben M Stower) — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 15:25:52 +0000

With steinholding competitions, a parade, and plenty of craft beer, this Minnesota city has one of the best Oktoberfest celebrations in the country.

Minneapolis' 6 Best Attractions Tourists Should Never Skip

staff@islands.com (Leslie Veliz) — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 01:45:00 +0000

From eccentric museums to green spaces and more, here are six iconic attractions in Minneapolis that tourists should add to their itinerary.

Near Minneapolis Is Minnesota's Vibrant City With A Large Zoo, Local Shops, And Tasty Restaurants

staff@islands.com (Leslie Veliz) — Sun, 20 Sep 2026 20:45:00 +0000

A short trip from Minneapolis leads to a Minnesota destination with a sprawling zoo, local boutiques, casual dining, and plenty to explore on a day trip.

A Little Over Half An Hour From Minneapolis Is A Charming Lake Park With Trails, Swimming, And Boating

staff@islands.com (Anahid Akkam) — Sat, 19 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000

A little over half an hour's drive from Minneapolis is a charming, regional lake park with walking and cycling trails, swimming, boating, and more.