Dakota MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Dakota, Minnesota.
1. Great River Bluffs State Park
SCENIC RIVER VIEWS
Great River Bluffs State Park offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of the Mississippi River valley from high atop the bluffs. Travelers can enjoy hiking trails that wind through hardwood forests and prairies, providing opportunities to spot local wildlife. The park is especially beautiful during fall when the foliage transforms into vibrant colors that contrast with the blue waters of the Mississippi below.
2. Great River State Trail
HISTORIC RAIL TRAIL
Great River State Trail is a popular recreational pathway that follows the route of an abandoned railroad line along the Mississippi River. The trail offers scenic views of wetlands, river backwaters, and bluffs that make it perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation. Visitors can enjoy the trail's natural beauty while learning about the region's rich railroad history through interpretive signage along the route.
3. River View Vineyard and Winery
LOCAL WINE TASTING
River View Vineyard and Winery provides visitors with a charming setting to sample locally produced wines while enjoying views of the surrounding countryside. The family-owned establishment offers tastings of their handcrafted wines made from cold-climate grapes grown in the region. Guests can relax on the outdoor patio, learn about the winemaking process, and purchase bottles to take home as souvenirs of their visit.
4. SUTRA Global Imports
UNIQUE ARTISAN MARKET
SUTRA Global Imports brings handcrafted treasures from around the world to the heart of Dakota. Visitors can browse through a diverse collection of fair-trade goods, including jewelry, home décor, textiles, and gifts made by artisans from various cultures. The shop offers a unique shopping experience that combines ethical commerce with global artistic traditions.
5. Confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota River
HISTORIC NATURAL LANDMARK
The Confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers marks the historically significant point where these two major waterways merge. Visitors can witness the mixing of waters from Pike Island in Fort Snelling State Park, a site that holds deep cultural importance for the Dakota people. The area offers excellent opportunities for photography, bird watching, and contemplating the natural and cultural history of the region.
6. Pilot Knob/Oheyawahi
SACRED DAKOTA SITE
Pilot Knob/Oheyawahi is a 25-acre sacred site that provides spectacular vistas overlooking the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers. Known to the Dakota as 'a hill much visited,' this prominent hilltop served as a burial ground and remains a sacred place to the Shakopee Mdewakanton. Visitors can observe diverse wildlife, including whitetail deer, wild turkeys, and rare migratory birds while appreciating the site's profound cultural and historical significance.
7. Minnesota Zoo
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION CENTER
The Minnesota Zoo houses an impressive collection of animals from around the world in naturalistic habitats spread across 485 acres. Visitors can explore various themed trails including the Tropics Trail, Minnesota Trail, and Northern Trail, each showcasing different ecosystems and their inhabitants. The zoo emphasizes conservation education through interactive exhibits and programs that highlight the importance of protecting wildlife and their habitats.
8. Lebanon Hills Regional Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Lebanon Hills Regional Park offers 2,000 acres of forests, prairies, and lakes for year-round outdoor activities in Dakota County. Visitors can enjoy more than 20 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, swimming beaches, fishing spots, and canoe/kayak rentals during summer months. The park transforms in winter with opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing, making it a true four-season destination for nature enthusiasts.
9. Fort Snelling State Park
HISTORIC MILITARY LANDMARK
Fort Snelling State Park combines natural beauty with significant historical importance at the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers. Visitors can explore miles of hiking trails through bottomland forest, visit the historic fort that dates back to the 1820s, and observe abundant wildlife including deer, fox, and over 200 bird species. The park serves as both a recreational destination and a living museum of Minnesota's military and cultural history.
10. Wildflower Levee Park
RIVERSIDE ART TRAIL
Wildflower Levee Park features interesting sculptures created from trash collected from the river, including 'The Industrious Cooperative Ant.' Visitors can stroll along scenic trails while appreciating the artistic transformation of river debris into meaningful environmental statements. The park combines natural beauty with environmental awareness, making it a thought-provoking destination for eco-conscious travelers.
11. Schaar's Bluff
BIRD WATCHING HAVEN
Schaar's Bluff provides an excellent spot for observing water birds with an on-site telescope for enhanced viewing. Visitors might catch glimpses of rare species like Barrow's Goldeneye and Black-legged Kittiwake that have been documented at this location. The bluff offers spectacular views of the river valley below and serves as an important stop along major bird migration routes.
12. MN River Greenway
SCENIC RIVERSIDE TRAIL
The Minnesota River Greenway is a beautiful, paved bicycle and pedestrian trail that follows the Minnesota River through Dakota County. The trail connects several parks and natural areas, offering users views of the river, wetlands, and surrounding landscapes. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy walking, running, cycling, and wildlife viewing along this well-maintained recreational corridor.
13. Nickelodeon Universe
INDOOR THEME PARK
Nickelodeon Universe offers an exciting indoor theme park experience located within the Mall of America in Bloomington. Visitors can enjoy over 27 rides and attractions featuring beloved Nickelodeon characters like SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. The climate-controlled environment makes it a perfect year-round destination for families looking for thrills regardless of Minnesota's sometimes challenging weather.
14. Gertens
EXPANSIVE GARDEN CENTER
Gertens is one of the largest family-owned garden centers in the Midwest, offering an impressive selection of plants, garden supplies, and home décor. Visitors can wander through acres of greenhouses filled with flowers, trees, shrubs, and vegetables grown on their own 259-acre farm. The center hosts seasonal events and workshops throughout the year, making it a destination for both serious gardeners and those simply looking for a colorful, plant-filled experience.
15. AMC Inver Grove 16
MODERN CINEMA EXPERIENCE
AMC Inver Grove 16 provides moviegoers with a state-of-the-art cinema experience featuring the latest blockbusters and independent films. The theater offers comfortable reclining seats, premium sound systems, and digital projection technology for an immersive viewing experience. Visitors can enjoy concessions including traditional movie snacks as well as expanded food and beverage options in a modern, welcoming environment.