Long Beach MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Long Beach, Minnesota.
1. Terrace Mill
HISTORIC FLOUR MILL
Terrace Mill stands as a preserved historic flour mill showcasing Minnesota's agricultural heritage. Visitors can explore the rustic architecture and learn about the milling processes that were vital to early settlers in the region. The serene setting along a waterway provides both historical insight and picturesque photo opportunities.
2. Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
ICONIC OUTDOOR ART GALLERY
The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden features a remarkable collection of contemporary sculptures set in beautifully landscaped grounds. The garden's centerpiece is the iconic 'Spoonbridge and Cherry' sculpture, which has become a symbol of Minneapolis. Visitors can wander through this 11-acre park to discover over 40 permanent art installations that blend nature with artistic expression.
3. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
BOTANICAL WONDER DESTINATION
The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum encompasses 1,200 acres of gardens, model landscapes, and natural areas with more than 5,000 plant varieties. Visitors can explore themed gardens, walking trails, and the renowned Japanese Garden throughout the changing seasons. The arboretum also offers educational programs, art exhibitions, and seasonal events that celebrate Minnesota's diverse plant life.
4. Glensheen Mansion
HISTORIC LAKESIDE ESTATE
Glensheen Mansion is a 39-room historic estate on the shores of Lake Superior that offers a glimpse into early 20th century opulence. The mansion features impeccably preserved original furnishings, stunning craftsmanship, and formal gardens that showcase the wealth and taste of the Congdon family. Tours of this architectural treasure reveal not only the beautiful interiors but also the fascinating and sometimes dark history of one of Minnesota's most prominent families.
5. Cathedral of Saint Paul
MAJESTIC RELIGIOUS MONUMENT
The Cathedral of Saint Paul stands as one of the most impressive examples of Beaux-Arts architecture in the United States and dominates the Saint Paul skyline. Its massive copper dome, marble interior, and intricate stained glass windows reflect the artistic and spiritual aspirations of the early 20th century. Visitors of all faiths can appreciate guided tours highlighting the cathedral's religious significance and architectural magnificence.
6. Lake Minnewaska
PRISTINE RECREATIONAL WATERS
Lake Minnewaska offers 7,500 acres of clear waters perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming just adjacent to Long Beach. The lake is renowned for its excellent walleye, northern pike, and panfish fishing opportunities throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy scenic shorelines, public beaches, and beautiful sunsets that showcase Minnesota's celebrated lake culture.
7. Two Harbors Lighthouse
HISTORIC MARITIME BEACON
The Two Harbors Lighthouse is Minnesota's oldest operating lighthouse, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can tour the beautifully preserved light keeper's quarters which have been converted into a charming bed and breakfast. The lighthouse complex includes the Fog Horn Building which houses exhibits on fishing and shipwrecks of Lake Superior.
8. Edna G Tugboat
PRESERVED MARITIME HISTORY
The Edna G Tugboat stands as a well-preserved piece of Great Lakes maritime history docked at Agate Bay in Two Harbors. This historic vessel served from 1896 to 1981, making it the last steam-powered tugboat to operate on Lake Superior. Visitors can explore this floating museum to learn about the crucial role tugboats played in Minnesota's iron ore shipping industry.
9. Railroad Depot Museum
TRANSPORT HERITAGE CENTER
The Railroad Depot Museum in Two Harbors preserves the rich transportation history of Minnesota's North Shore. Housed in a historic train station, the museum showcases artifacts, photographs, and interactive exhibits related to the iron ore industry and railroad development. Visitors can step back in time to understand how railroads shaped the economic and cultural landscape of the region.
10. Sonju Trail
SCENIC SHORELINE PATH
The Sonju Trail offers a picturesque one-mile paved walkway connecting Agate Bay to Burlington Bay along Lake Superior's shoreline. Hikers and walkers are treated to stunning views of the lake, the working ore docks, and the surrounding natural beauty of the North Shore. The trail provides excellent opportunities for bird watching, photography, and witnessing the arrival and departure of massive ore ships.
11. Burlington Bay
AGATE HUNTER'S PARADISE
Burlington Bay features a beautiful cobblestone beach perfect for agate hunting along Lake Superior's shore. Visitors can spend hours combing the shoreline for these semi-precious stones while enjoying panoramic views of the world's largest freshwater lake. The bay area also offers picnic facilities, swimming areas, and camping opportunities for those wanting to extend their North Shore experience.
12. Little Red Schoolhouse
HISTORIC EDUCATIONAL LANDMARK
The Little Red Schoolhouse in Larsmont stands as a charming piece of educational history on the National Register of Historic Places. This well-preserved one-room schoolhouse now serves as a community hub hosting various events and activities for area residents. Visitors can experience a glimpse of early 20th century rural education while learning about the Finnish immigrant influence in the region.
13. Two Harbors Ore Docks
INDUSTRIAL MARITIME MARVEL
The Two Harbors Ore Docks represent an impressive working industrial site where visitors can witness massive ships loading iron ore pellets. These engineering marvels demonstrate the continuing importance of Minnesota's Iron Range to the national economy. Observers can watch the fascinating process as the huge freighters maneuver into position, dock, and take on thousands of tons of cargo.
14. Minnesota's Bar
POPULAR LOCAL GATHERING SPOT
Minnesota's Bar stands as one of the most popular social establishments in Long Beach, offering refreshments and entertainment for locals and visitors alike. The venue provides a welcoming atmosphere where guests can enjoy drinks, socialize, and experience authentic small-town Minnesota culture. Visitors often cite the friendly service and opportunity to mingle with locals as highlights of this genuine small-town establishment.
15. North Shore Scenic Drive
BREATHTAKING COASTAL HIGHWAY
The North Shore Scenic Drive stretches 142 miles along Lake Superior from Duluth to the Canadian border, offering some of Minnesota's most spectacular views. This designated All-American Road features numerous pullouts where travelers can marvel at waterfalls, rocky cliffs, and the vast expanse of the world's largest freshwater lake. Visitors can enjoy countless outdoor recreation opportunities along the route, from hiking and skiing to fishing and wildlife viewing throughout all four seasons.