Discover the Hidden Gems of Minnesota’s Wine Country

Glass of wine on table, at The Summit Winery

Here’s a 3-day itinerary for exploring Minnesota’s wine country, complete with winery visits, dining recommendations, and additional activities to make the most of your trip.

Day 1: Twin Cities Wine Adventure

Morning:

• Arrival in Minneapolis/St. Paul

  • Check into your accommodation. Consider staying at the Minneapolis Marriott City Center for its central location and easy access to local attractions.
    • Website: Minneapolis Marriott City Center

• **Breakfast at The Hen House Eatery

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this popular local spot, known for its creative breakfast dishes and friendly atmosphere.
    • Website: The Hen House Eatery

Late Morning:

• Minnesota Vineyard and Winery
  • Visit this local gem to enjoy a tasting of their estate-grown wines. Explore their range of offerings and get insights from knowledgeable staff.
    • Address: 12675 12th St NE, St. Michael, MN 55376
    • Website: Minnesota Vineyard and Winery

Afternoon:

• **Lunch at The Lowry

  • Enjoy a casual and delicious lunch at this Minneapolis eatery, known for its comfort food and relaxed vibe.
    • Website: The Lowry

• Randy’s Vineyard and Winery

  • Head to Randy’s Vineyard for a tasting experience featuring their signature Marquette and La Crescent varietals.
    • Address: 1234 Vine St, Minneapolis, MN 55401
    • Website: Randy’s Vineyard and Winery

Evening:

• **Dinner at The Capital Grille

  • Enjoy a fine dining experience at The Capital Grille, known for its upscale American cuisine and extensive wine list.
    • Website: The Capital Grille

• Overnight in Minneapolis/St. Paul

Day 2: Southeast Minnesota Wine Tour

Morning:

• **Breakfast at The Buttered Tin

  • Start your day with a delightful breakfast at this bakery and café known for its homemade pastries and hearty breakfast options.
    • Website: The Buttered Tin

• Drive to Whitewater Wines

  • Enjoy the scenic drive to Whitewater Wines, where you can explore their handcrafted wines and beautiful surroundings.
    • Address: 36500 269th Ave, Altura, MN 55910
    • Website: Whitewater Wines

Afternoon:

• **Lunch at The Oasis Café

  • Have a relaxing lunch at this charming café, which offers a variety of fresh and flavorful dishes.
    • Website: The Oasis Café

• Mauzy’s Winery

  • Continue your wine journey with a visit to Mauzy’s Winery, known for its diverse wine offerings and welcoming atmosphere.
    • Address: 15021 17th St NW, Lonsdale, MN 55046
    • Website: Mauzy’s Winery

Evening:

• **Dinner at The Chancery

  • Enjoy a casual dinner at The Chancery, known for its delicious comfort food and relaxed ambiance.
    • Website: The Chancery

• Overnight in Rochester or nearby

Day 3: Scenic Wine Country

Morning:

• **Breakfast at The Rustic Inn Café

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this cozy café known for its homemade dishes and warm atmosphere.
    • Website: The Rustic Inn Café

• Glacial Ridge Winery

  • Head to Glacial Ridge Winery for a tasting of their refreshing wines and enjoy the picturesque setting.
    • Address: 25504 281st Ave, Spicer, MN 56288
    • Website: Glacial Ridge Winery

Afternoon:

• **Lunch at The Green Mill Restaurant & Bar

  • Have lunch at this local favorite, known for its diverse menu and comfortable dining experience.
    • Website: The Green Mill Restaurant & Bar

• North Shore Winery

  • Visit North Shore Winery for a final wine tasting experience. Enjoy the beautiful views of Lake Superior and their exceptional wines.
    • Address: 1919 W Highway 61, Lutsen, MN 55612
    • Website: North Shore Winery

Evening:

• **Dinner at The Bluefin Bay Resort Restaurant

  • Conclude your trip with a scenic dinner at The Bluefin Bay Resort, offering delicious dishes and stunning lake views.
    • Website: The Bluefin Bay Resort Restaurant

• Return Home

This itinerary provides a well-rounded experience of Minnesota’s wine country, from exploring notable wineries and enjoying local dining to immersing yourself in the state’s natural beauty. Enjoy your wine tour and the wonderful experiences Minnesota has to offer!

Minnesota Wines & Wineries

Here’s a list of fun activities and attractions you can enjoy while you’re exploring Minnesota, including options in the areas surrounding the wineries:

1. Explore the Outdoors

• Visit the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW)

  • Known for its pristine lakes and remote wilderness, BWCAW offers opportunities for canoeing, fishing, hiking, and camping.
  • Website: Boundary Waters Canoe Area

• Explore Minnehaha Falls

  • Located in Minneapolis, this iconic waterfall is part of Minnehaha Park and offers picturesque views, walking trails, and a beautiful setting for a picnic.
  • Website: Minnehaha Falls

2. Discover Cultural and Historical Attractions

• Explore the Minneapolis Institute of Arts

  • Home to an impressive collection of art from around the world, this museum offers a range of exhibits from classic to contemporary.
  • Website: Minneapolis Institute of Arts

• Visit the Minnesota History Center

  • Located in St. Paul, this center offers exhibits and interactive displays about Minnesota’s history and culture.
  • Website: Minnesota History Center

3. Enjoy Unique Attractions

• Experience the Mall of America

  • Located in Bloomington, the Mall of America is a shopping and entertainment complex with over 500 stores, an indoor amusement park, and an aquarium.
  • Website: Mall of America

• Visit the Science Museum of Minnesota

  • Located in St. Paul, this museum features interactive exhibits on science and technology, along with an IMAX theater.
  • Website: Science Museum of Minnesota

4. Indulge in Local Food and Drink

• Dine at The Bachelor Farmer

  • Located in Minneapolis, The Bachelor Farmer is known for its farm-to-table dishes and Scandinavian-inspired menu.
  • Website: The Bachelor Farmer

• Visit Surly Brewing Co.

  • Enjoy craft beers and a lively atmosphere at Surly Brewing Co., known for its innovative brews and excellent food.
  • Website: Surly Brewing Co.

5. Relax and Unwind

• Explore the North Shore Scenic Drive

  • This picturesque drive along Lake Superior offers stunning views, charming towns, and numerous opportunities to explore the natural beauty of Minnesota.
  • Website: North Shore Scenic Drive

• Relax at the Como Park Zoo & Conservatory

  • Located in St. Paul, this zoo and conservatory offer a relaxing day out with beautiful gardens, animal exhibits, and family-friendly activities.
  • Website: Como Park Zoo & Conservatory

6. Attend Local Festivals and Events

• Minnesota State Fair

  • Held annually in late summer, the Minnesota State Fair is known for its food, entertainment, and agricultural exhibits.
  • Website: Minnesota State Fair

• Art-a-Whirl

  • An annual art event in the Twin Cities, Art-a-Whirl showcases local artists and offers gallery tours, live music, and more.
  • Website: Art-a-Whirl

7. Experience Outdoor Activities

• Go Ice Fishing on Mille Lacs Lake

  • During winter, Mille Lacs Lake offers excellent ice fishing opportunities and a chance to experience Minnesota’s winter culture.
  • Website: Mille Lacs Lake

• Hike the Paul Bunyan Trail

  • This scenic trail stretches from Brainerd to Bemidji and offers beautiful views and a variety of outdoor activities.
  • Website: Paul Bunyan Trail

8. Explore Charming Small Towns

• Discover Stillwater

  • Known for its historic downtown and scenic riverfront, Stillwater offers quaint shops, restaurants, and beautiful views of the St. Croix River.
  • Website: Stillwater

• Visit Duluth

  • This port city on Lake Superior features attractions like the Aerial Lift Bridge, Canal Park, and numerous museums and galleries.
  • Website: Duluth

Minnesota offers a rich array of activities that complement your wine tour experience. From exploring its natural beauty and cultural landmarks to enjoying local food and unique attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while you’re in the state.