Lilydale MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Lilydale, Minnesota.
1. Lilydale Regional Park
RIVERSIDE NATURE ESCAPE
Lilydale Regional Park offers a sprawling, forested floodplain along the Mississippi River, providing exceptional opportunities for biking, walking, birdwatching, and fishing. The park features scenic walking paths, Pickerel Lake, and a system of trails that connect to the broader Twin Cities area. Visitors will enjoy its natural setting, occasional urban wildlife, and a peaceful environment away from city bustle.
2. Pickerel Lake
HIDDEN URBAN LAKE
Pickerel Lake is nestled inside Lilydale Regional Park, providing a serene setting for fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. The lake is dotted with lilypads in the summer and attracts wildlife throughout the seasons, making it a local favorite for nature lovers. Its tranquil atmosphere invites visitors to relax and enjoy peaceful water views close to the city.
3. Confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers
HISTORIC RIVER MEETING
At the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers, visitors can witness the merging of two of Minnesota's most important waterways. This site is historically significant for Indigenous peoples and early settlers, offering panoramic river views and interpretive markers. The surrounding natural area is ideal for walking, birdwatching, and appreciating local history.
4. Great Wolf Lodge Water Park
INDOOR WATER ADVENTURE
Great Wolf Lodge Water Park offers families an expansive indoor park filled with water slides, pools, and play areas. This all-ages destination is perfect for year-round aquatic fun regardless of the weather. The resort experience includes interactive games and themed entertainment, making it a popular getaway in the Twin Cities metro area.
5. Fort Snelling State Park
HISTORIC STATE PARK
Fort Snelling State Park sits at the meeting point of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers, presenting a blend of rich history and expansive natural beauty. Visitors can explore restored fort buildings, participate in living history programs, or hike the park's extensive trail network. The park is known for its wildlife sightings and family-friendly activities.
6. Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
URBAN WILDLIFE REFUGE
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge offers more than 14,000 acres of protected land, providing vital habitat for birds and wildlife in an urban setting. The refuge features walking trails, interpretive centers, and observation decks where guests can spot migratory birds and native animals. Educational programs and guided hikes are available for visitors of all ages.
7. Sibley House Historic Site
PIONEER-ERA LANDMARK
The Sibley House Historic Site is a collection of stone buildings dating back to the early settlement period of Minnesota. Located on the Minnesota River, the site offers guided tours and exhibits that recount the stories of Henry Sibley and the fur trade era. Visitors learn about the region's early history and can roam the picturesque grounds.
8. Cherokee Regional Park
BLUFFTOP SCENIC PARK
Cherokee Regional Park sits atop the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, offering some of the best scenic views in the area. The park provides picnic areas, playgrounds, tennis courts, and walking paths shaded by mature trees. It is a favorite spot for local gatherings, quiet walks, and taking in the river valley panorama.
9. Hidden Falls Regional Park
WATERFALL AND TRAILS
Hidden Falls Regional Park is celebrated for its picturesque waterfall nestled within a lush, wooded landscape along the Mississippi River. The park offers hiking trails, picnic spots, and a boat launch, making it a versatile destination for outdoor recreation. It provides a peaceful escape with opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy river views.
10. Lake Nokomis
LIVELY URBAN LAKE
Lake Nokomis is a popular urban lake offering swimming beaches, a fishing pier, and a 2.7-mile paved trail for walking, running, and biking. The surrounding parkland hosts summer festivals, boat rentals, and volleyball courts, attracting locals and visitors alike. With its clean water and active shoreline, Lake Nokomis is a vibrant hub for seasonal recreation.
11. Big Rivers Regional Trail
RIVERSIDE BIKING PATH
The Big Rivers Regional Trail travels along bluffs above the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers, giving cyclists and walkers sweeping river views and access to area parks. The paved path connects several natural and historic sites, making it a scenic route for both exercise and exploration. Interpretive signs along the trail detail the area's history and ecology.
12. Minnesota Boat Club
HISTORIC BOATHOUSE VENUE
The Minnesota Boat Club is housed on Harriet Island and has been an institution for rowing and recreational boating on the Mississippi River since the late 19th century. The club's historic boathouse and riverside setting make it a unique destination for group events and rowing activities. Visitors can observe practices or attend seasonal regattas.
13. Harriet Island Regional Park
RIVERSIDE EVENT PARK
Harriet Island Regional Park is a beloved green space along the Mississippi River, renowned for hosting festivals, concerts, and community gatherings. The park features a riverside promenade, playground, and picnic areas with city skyline views. Its event-driven atmosphere draws crowds year-round for both recreation and cultural experiences.
14. Wabasha Street Caves
UNDERGROUND HISTORY TOURS
The Wabasha Street Caves are a series of historic sandstone caves beneath the bluffs of Saint Paul, once used as speakeasies and gangster hideouts. Guided tours reveal intriguing stories of Prohibition, bootlegging, and the city's underworld past. The caves also host swing dance nights and special events, making them a quirky, must-see attraction.
15. Minnesota History Center
STATE HERITAGE MUSEUM
The Minnesota History Center is an architecturally striking museum dedicated to educating visitors about Minnesota's diverse past through engaging exhibits and interactive displays. The museum hosts special events, family programs, and rotating collections covering state history, culture, and innovation. Its expansive views of the city and extensive resources make it an essential stop for history enthusiasts.