Quick Getaways

Part III: Three More Cities to Explore Under 90 Miles from the Twin Cities

In our final edition of this three-part series, we have compiled more must-see destinations conveniently located less than 90 miles from the Twin Cities. Planning your next adventure is a breeze with these destinations just a short drive away. Get in your car and embark on a quick getawayyou won’t need to go far!

First, be sure to check out Part I and Part II!

Alpha & Omega Farm
Pizza Night at Alpha & Omega Farm

Courtesy of Alpha & Omega Farm

Take Refuge in the Nature of Big Lake

Travel an hour north of the Twin Cities and embrace the charming town of Big Lake. Start your adventure by trying a delectable cappuccino and breakfast sandwich at Ember Coffee Co. Get outdoors at Hidden Rivers Park to walk through winding wooded trails. To enjoy more time in nature, head to the Sand Dunes State Forest, where acres of scenic pine plantations, prairie land, and towering trees reside. Activities such as hiking, horseback riding, swimming, and fishing are available within the park. Lovers of Asian fusion will love Cambo Flare for mealtime, a restaurant specializing in quality Asian dining Cambodian style. Nearby is also Alpha & Omega Farm in Princeton, a local hot spot that sells incredible wood-fired pizzas every Thursday and Saturday throughout the summer season.

Interstate State Park
Interstate State Park near Taylors Falls, Minnesota

Courtesy of Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

Get Active in Taylors Falls

With the town’s beautiful bluffs and high cliffs, visitors would not be able to guess that Taylors Falls is only 50 miles from the Twin Cities. The outdoorsy city provides ample opportunities for hikes, scenic photographs, and even alpine slides! Head to Wild Mountain to enjoy a ride on an alpine slide overlooking St. Croix River Valley or enjoy their interactive waterpark. Check out the stunning Interstate State Park for scenic hiking trails, canoeing, fishing, and rock climbing. Before leaving, stop by Wild Mountain Winery for quality wine and (even more) wood-fired pizza.

Willow Falls
Willow Falls near Hudson, Wisconsin

Courtesy of Travel Wisconsin

Enjoy the Views in Hudson

Hudson is a city in St. Croix County in Wisconsin, less than 30 miles from the Twin Cities. For organic coffee and espresso, check out Joe to Go before making your way to Willow Falls for a spectacular hike with waterfall views. Next, picnic at Lakefront Park, sit along the clear shoreline or check out the beach and watch for wildlife. To witness unique architecture and beautiful gardens, tour the Octagon House, an historic eight-sided home built in the 19th century. To end your day in Hudson with small plates and a cozy ambiance, head to Urban Olive & Vine.

Julia Jacobson is a rising senior at the University of Notre Dame, studying political science and journalism. Outside of her coursework, she participates in her school’s mock trial team and works as a teaching assistant for an introductory political science course. Julia was born and raised in Minnesota, and loves traveling both domestically and internationally. In her free time, she enjoys reading and journaling.