We Rank Minnesota’s 15 Top Tours & Things To Do

Minnesota might not be the first state that comes to mind when you think of outdoor adventures and unique experiences, but it’s a treasure trove of activities that will keep any traveler busy. Whether you’re soaring through tree canopies, solving ghostly mysteries, or kayaking on pristine lakes, Minnesota offers a diverse array of tours and things to do that are both authentic and fun.

We especially love the Minnesota River Valley Zipline for its thrilling 14 lines above the trees and its guides’ safety-first approach.

For a spooky but fascinating night, the Ghost Walking Tour in Stillwater is a fantastic way to combine local history with ghost stories. Whether you’re into adrenaline rushes or chilling stories, Minnesota has a lot to offer.

Quick Overview

This list covers a wide range of tours and activities in Minnesota, from zipline and high ropes courses to indoor skydiving and kayaking.

Adventure lovers will appreciate the Minnesota River Valley Zipline and Henderson Zipline, while history and spooky-story fans will enjoy the Ghost Walking Tour in Stillwater and Red Wing Ghost Walk. For those interested in active outdoor pursuits, options include kayaking, canoeing, and rock climbing.

And if you want a break from the outdoors, the Luxury Sushi-Making Class in Minneapolis offers a tasty and relaxing culinary experience. Now, let’s explore each activity in detail to help you decide what fits your travel style best.

1. Minnesota River Valley 14-Line Thrilling Zipline Canopy Tour

At number 1, this zipline adventure stands out for its combination of heart-pumping speed and scenic views. Starting with a ground school to familiarize yourself with the harness and safety equipment, two professional guides stay with you throughout the 14 lines.

Over roughly 2.5 hours, you’ll fly across a mile of ziplining, including some of the highest and fastest lines above the treetops. Unique features include the spiral climb and the chance to control your speed, making it both fun and empowering.

Reviewers consistently praise the safety and friendliness of the staff, with a perfect rating of 5.0/5 based on 155 reviews. The price of $99 per person offers great value considering the length and variety of the course.

This tour is perfect for those seeking a vigorous outdoor activity in a natural setting. Bottom line: if you want a memorable outdoor thrill, this zipline delivers.

2. Minnesota’s Ultimate High Ropes Course

For around $49, the High Ropes Course provides a challenging outdoor experience that tests both body and mind. Starting with a helpful ground school, you’ll be clipped into a series of elevated platforms, cables, and obstacles designed to push your limits.

The course’s design encourages balancing, climbing, swinging, and problem-solving, making it ideal for those who enjoy active, mental, and physical challenges.

The course’s safety features are top-notch, with professional guides ensuring your security during the adventure. With a 5.0/5 rating from 16 reviews, visitors say it’s both fun and rewarding.

It’s especially well-suited for families or groups looking for a bonding activity that’s physically demanding but accessible. Bottom line: great value for a unique, physically engaging activity in Minnesota.

3. Ghost Walking Tour in Stillwater

If you’re in the mood for something spooky but informative, this Ghost Walking Tour is a perfect choice. For about 1.5 to 2 hours, a guide takes you through Stillwater’s historic streets, sharing stories of its haunted sites, including the Minnesota State Prison and Lowell Park. You’ll learn about legends like Fisherman John and other eerie characters that supposedly still linger.

The tour combines local culture and history with ghost stories, making it both fun and educational. The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5.0/5 from 6 reviews, highlighting the storytelling skills and atmosphere.

It’s ideal for history buffs or anyone interested in the darker side of Minnesota’s past. Bottom line: a captivating way to explore Stillwater after dark.

4. Minneapolis Indoor Skydiving Admission with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate

For something truly unique, the indoor skydiving experience lets you feel the thrill of free-fall without jumping out of a plane. This 1-hour session includes two “flights” inside a wind tunnel with an instructor by your side. It’s suitable for all skill levels and offers a safe, controlled environment to enjoy the sensation of flying.

Reviewers praise the staff and the fun, adrenaline-pumping nature of the activity, with ratings at 4.5/5 from 18 reviews. The $101.07 price includes all equipment and a personalized flight certificate.

Perfect for those who want a taste of skydiving but prefer to stay firmly on the ground. Bottom line: a must-try for adventure seekers interested in a novel experience.

5. Henderson, Minnesota: 14-Line Zipline Canopy Tour

Another top zipline option is the Henderson Zipline, which offers a 2.5-hour adventure with stunning views over the Minnesota River Valley. Starting from a platform among the treetops, you’ll soar across the landscape, enjoying the wind and scenery. With only two reviews, the tour still earns a perfect 5.0/5, and at $99 per person, it’s competitively priced for a similar experience to the first.

This tour is ideal for families and groups looking for a safe yet exhilarating outdoor activity. Bottom line: a great option if you’re craving a shorter but equally exciting zipline experience.

6. Red Wing Ghost Walk

In a similar vein to the Stillwater ghost tour, the Red Wing Ghost Walk immerses you in local legends for about 1.5 hours. It covers historic sites like the Sheldon Theatre and the St. James Hotel, both reputed to have ghostly tales attached.

The tour’s storytelling, combined with the town’s colorful past, makes for an engaging evening. Rated 5.0/5 from 2 reviews, the tour is at $34.99 per person, making it an affordable option for ghost enthusiasts.

It’s well-suited for history lovers and those interested in Minnesota’s spooky side. Bottom line: an entertaining way to explore Red Wing’s spectral stories.

7. Boundary Waters Day Trips, Lutsen/Grand Marais

For lovers of wilderness, this Boundary Waters day trip offers a chance to paddle through pristine lakes and untouched forests. With a 4.5/5 rating from 9 reviews, it is perhaps the best way to sample Minnesota’s most iconic outdoor area without the commitment of a longer trip.

The tour lasts about 7 hours, including transportation, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want a comprehensive experience.

It’s especially recommended for those who enjoy paddling and want to see nature at its quiet best. Bottom line: a memorable outdoor adventure for nature lovers.

8. Charming Stillwater, MN, Tour with Private Transportation

For a personalized experience, this private tour of Stillwater is ideal. Starting from just $480 for a group of two, it combines a scenic ride through Victorian neighborhoods with a brief walking tour of Main Street.

You’ll learn about the town’s history as the “Birthplace of Minnesota” and see historic mansions and the river valley. The guide’s knowledge and friendly approach make it a favorite among reviewers.

This tour is best suited for travelers wanting a relaxed, tailored introduction to Stillwater at their own pace. Bottom line: a quiet, personalized way to explore Minnesota’s charming riverside town.

9. Group Rock Climbing in Interstate Park

If climbing appeals, this group rock climbing experience offers a challenging adventure in a beautiful setting. Forged Guides provides expert instruction and safety during a 4-hour session in Interstate Park.

Whether you’re a beginner or experienced climber, the guided environment ensures fun and security. The activity is perfect for groups or families ready to try something physically demanding but accessible.

It’s a great way to connect with nature and test your limits. Bottom line: ideal for active travelers wanting a memorable outdoor activity.

10. Kayak Trips on Lake Superior, Lutsen, MN

For a peaceful yet striking experience, this Lake Superior kayak trip offers about 3 hours of paddling along the shoreline. With just a $92 fee, it’s accessible and perfect for beginners or those wanting to enjoy Minnesota’s largest lake. The guides teach you all you need to know, and the trip offers an intimate perspective on Lake Superior’s vast beauty.

It’s best for travelers interested in nature and serenity, away from crowds. Bottom line: a memorable way to connect with one of America’s most iconic lakes.

11. Luxury Sushi-Making Class in Minneapolis (Includes 5-Course Meal)

For something different, this sushi-making class is a fun and tasty experience. In about 2 hours, a local chef guides you through preparing sushi rice, rolling, and making a variety of sushi, including salmon avocado and California rolls.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy a 5-course meal that complements the hands-on activity. Rated 5.0/5 from 1 review, it’s perfect for food lovers or those wanting a relaxing break from outdoor adventures.

The $99 price includes all ingredients and instruction. Bottom line: a delightful culinary activity for a quiet, creative afternoon.

12. Canoe National Forest Lakes (Lutsen/Grand Marais)

This guided canoe trip provides an excellent introduction to Minnesota’s wilderness, paddling through remote lakes within the Superior National Forest. For $145 per group, up to 8 people, you’ll spend about 3 hours exploring pristine waters and enjoying peaceful scenery. It’s perfect for families or groups wanting a gentle outdoor activity that doesn’t require extensive experience.

The lakes are very close to the Boundary Waters but offer a quieter, less crowded alternative. Bottom line: an accessible, scenic paddling trip suitable for all ages.

13. Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Stillwater MN

If you like puzzles and storytelling, this murder mystery experience turns Stillwater into a crime scene. Over 2.5 hours, you explore local landmarks, gathering clues and solving a fictional murder. It’s played as an audio adventure with a driving map, making it interactive and fun. Rated 4.0/5 from 8 reviews, many find it a clever way to see the city while engaging your brain.

It’s suitable for small groups and encourages a bit of friendly competition. Bottom line: a fun, story-driven activity that combines sightseeing with detective work.

14. Kayak Trips on Lake Superior, Two Harbors, MN

Another Lake Superior trip, this kayak tour in Two Harbors offers an approximately 3-hour paddle with expert guides. While it’s brand new with no reviews yet, its focus on authentic lake experiences makes it promising. The meeting point is at Larsmont Cottages, and the trip is ideal for those wanting to experience Lake Superior’s vastness up close.

It’s suitable for paddlers of all levels, emphasizing the personal connection to the lake. Bottom line: a fresh opportunity for an immersive outdoor adventure.

15. The Selfie Company | Minnesota’s Premier Selfie Experience

If you’re into fun, quirky activities, this Selfie Experience offers over 15 seasonal selfie sets, a TikTok stage, and a digital content studio. It’s perfect for families or friends wanting to make lasting memories with creative backdrops and props. In just an hour, you’ll have plenty of photos to keep.

Priced at $22 per person, it’s affordable and a lighthearted escape from outdoor pursuits. Bottom line: a playful, picture-perfect activity for all ages.

How to Choose the Right Tour for You

When picking your tour, consider your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to dedicate. For high-adrenaline activities like ziplining, the Minnesota River Valley Zipline and Henderson Zipline provide unforgettable thrills, while more relaxed options like kayaking or the Selfie Company suit those seeking calmer, creative moments. For history and ghost stories, both the Stillwater ghost tour and Red Wing ghost walk offer engaging narratives.

Outdoor lovers shouldn’t miss the Boundary Waters day trip, especially if wilderness paddling appeals. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular activities like indoor skydiving or guided tours.

Minnesota’s diverse tours and activities ensure there’s something for every kind of traveler, whether you crave adrenaline, history, or just a good story. If you enjoy outdoor adventures, ziplining and kayaking offer unbeatable scenery and excitement.

For a more relaxed experience, culinary classes or self-guided explorations in charming towns like Stillwater or Red Wing provide a taste of local culture. For families or groups, activities like the indoor skydiving or Selfie Company guarantee fun and memorable moments.

Planning ahead and booking early helps ensure you get the most out of Minnesota’s vibrant activity scene. Whatever your interest, these tours promise a genuine and enjoyable experience in the North Star State.