No matter what the season, enjoying the view along the way is one of the top reasons for taking a road trip. Minnesota has designated more than 2,500 miles of roads as scenic byways show the way to great views. The byways meander through countryside dappled with lakes, the north woods, tumbling waterfalls, ribbons of prairie, rolling bluffs, city parks and winding rivers.

In addition to the great views in Minnesota, you’ll find plenty of reasons to stop along the way to visit historic sites, and to delve into the state’s cultural heritage.

Fascinating History
The stories of Minnesota’s past come to life at historic sites throughout the state. The oldest pictures of the state’s past are the ancient Jeffers Petroglyphs carved into stone in the southwestern prairie. Tales from more recent centuries are told at the Minnesota History Museum. The Grand Portage National Monument fur trading post, the 1820s frontier Fort Snelling, the 1860s Kelley Farm, 1910 Split Rock Lighthouse, a lumberjack camp, aviator Charles Lindbergh’s boyhood home and many others tell the stories of Minnesota’s past.

Dakota and Ojibwe Heritage
Minnesota’s native peoples keep alive their rich traditions. Travelers can learn about traditional and contemporary Ojibwe life at the Mille Lacs Indian Museum and the Bois Forte Heritage Center. The struggles and resilience of the Dakota communities along the Minnesota River are the focus of the Lower Sioux Agency historic site. Minnesota’s native culture can also be experienced at pow wows and galleries of Indian arts and crafts.

Ethnic Heritage
Many of the state’s early settlers were Germans, Norwegians and Swedes, but cultures throughout Europe were represented among the state’s earliest residents. The 20th century brought many new residents from around the world. Vibrant ethnic festivals range from African American to Vietnamese, from Hispanic to Swiss.

In the Twin Cities area, several neighborhoods are noteworthy for their ethnic restaurants and shops: District del Sol in St. Paul, Lake Street in Minneapolis, University Avenue in St. Paul, and Nicollet Avenue in Minneapolis, which is dubbed "Eat Street."

More info on Minnesota Heritage
Explore Minnesota Tourism www.exploreminnesota.com 888.TOURISM
Minnesota Historical Society www.mnhs.org 888.727.8386