Top Parks in Minnesota

Grab a snack from one of the nearby cafes before heading in. It's way cheaper than the overpriced stuff inside the park. You can save a few bucks!

Don't forget to bring a camera for the falls. I missed some great shots because I was too busy just enjoying the moment. Capture those beautiful views, trust me

If you're going for a hike, I'd recommend starting early, around 8 AM. The trails are much less crowded, and you get to enjoy the views with fewer people around.

I recommend bringing your own snacks and drinks, as the concessions can be overpriced. I saved a bunch of cash packing a picnic!

I think the sunsets here are incredible, so plan your day to catch one. Around 7 PM is when I saw the best views!

Check out the trail around the lake early in the morning. I went around 8 AM and it was super peaceful and less crowded!

If you want to rent a kayak or paddleboard, do it early, like before noon. The lines get long, and you’ll want to enjoy the water!

Don't miss the trails for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing! They were super fun, but I recommend checking the trail conditions beforehand. Some spots were a bit rough when I went.

I suggest arriving around 9 AM on weekends to snag a good parking spot. It gets pretty busy later, especially if there’s snow! We parked far away and it was a drag walking with sleds.

I recommend visiting in the late afternoon around 4 PM for the best light and fewer crowds. The ruins look stunning during golden hour.

My advice is to wear comfy shoes! The trails are a bit uneven, and you'll want to walk around and explore the entire area without worrying about your feet.

I think it's a good idea to bring a packed lunch. There aren't many food options nearby and picnicking in the park is lovely!

If you like photography, don't miss the stone staircases and old machinery. I suggest bringing a good camera or even your phone—trust me, the pics will come out amazing!

I suggest hitting up Gold Medal Park early in the morning like around 8 AM. It gets really hot on sunny days and the crowd is way smaller so you can enjoy the views without the hustle.

Check out the nearby Stone Arch Bridge afterwards! It's an easy walk and totally worth it for those photo ops, plus you can stretch your legs and explore more of the area.

Make sure to bring a picnic if you want to save some bucks! There's a chill vibe, and I found a perfect spot under a tree that wasn't crowded at all.