The Twin Cities offer a plethora of cultural activities, fine dining, scenic walks and other romantic things to do. The St. Anthony Falls Heritage Trail offers lovely views of the Mississippi River and is especially beautiful in autumn. Other romantic attractions couples might enjoy include Lake Calhoun (excellent bike trails, canoe rentals and lakefront bed & breakfasts), Fort Snelling State Park (great swimming, picnic spots and water sports), and Nicollet Island (charming village dating back to the 1800s with cobblestones and horse-drawn carriages). Historic hotels popular with couples include St. Paul Hotel on Market Street, the 4-diamond Grand Hotel, and the Nicollet Island Inn. For atmospheric candlelight dining, try The Carousel (the Twin Cities only rotating restaurant located on the 22nd floor of the Radisson Hotel downtown) or Moscow on the Hill (Russian restaurant with outdoor patio and accordion music).
Just 45 minutes from Minneapolis-St. Paul, this gorgeous valley is home to protected wilderness areas, scenic waterways and the charming 19th-century village of Stillwater. Once the home of wealthy lumber barons and merchants, Stillwater features dozens of antiques shops, used bookstores, romantic restaurants and cozy B&Bs. A number of bed & breakfasts, like the William Sauntry Mansion and Ann Bean Masion, are housed in the converted historic homes of Minnesotan aristocrats. Popular attractions in the area include St. Croix River National Scenic Riverway, Chateu St. Croix Winery and Vineyard and Afton State Park.
Minnesota's fourth largest city benefits from a prime location on the shore of the mighty Lake Superior. Weekend travelers can enjoy a wide array of activities in Duluth, including lake cruises, waterfront dining and cultural performances. The picturesque Canal Park waterfront is home to lots of upscale restaurants and shopping boutiques. Just north of Duluth you'll find dozens of intimate cabins along the lake. Be sure to visit the historic towns of Two Harbors and Grand Marais where museums and landmarks tell the fascinating history of the Great Lakes.
