The Minnesota 2002 Travel Guide divides the state in these areas. We mention a few of the highlights in each area in addition to the National Parks. Naturally the Travel Guide presents a comprehensive description of the state.
SUPERIOR NORTH SHORE GRAND PORTAGE NM, Grand Marias. This is close to ISLE ROYALE NP where there are wolves. Duluth, largest city other than Twin Cities, with its large lift bridge to let ships enter the harbor, the Maritime Visitor Center, etc. The 150 mile North Shore Drive, Highway 61, along Lake Superior has much to enjoy. Two Harbors has a famous lighthouse and the area is know for its iron ore.
LAKES OF NORTHERN LIGHTS VOYAGEURS NP, International Falls. The Gunflint Trail, a 63 miles paved road from Grand Marias, takes you to the Boundary Waters. Canoe and Camping Area. Lake of the Woods has 65,ooo miles of shoreline, over 14,000 islands and is 55 miles wide. This is a great area for outdoor recreation of all sorts.
WOODS & WATERS This area has Minnesota's biggest lakes. The area is bordered by the St. Croix River on the east and the Red River on the north and west. The Mississippi Headwaters is at the Itasca State Park north of Park Rapids. The Charles Lindberg House is south of Little Falls and Bemidji is home to Paul Bunyan.
WEST CENTRAL LAKES This are surrounds Interstate 94 from Fergus Falls to Elk River. St Cloud is the hub of this area. and Sauk Center is the boyhood home of Sinclair Lewis. The area between Sauk Center and Avon inspired the fictional town of Lake Wobegon by Garrison Keillor.
HISTORIC PRAIRIES PIPESTONE NM, Pipestone produces the red stone used by Indians all over the country for their peace pipes. The Minnesota River flows through this area. The Dakota Indians lived here. Ortonville has red stone quarries. New Ulm shows its German roots in many ways.
MISSISSIPPI BLUFF COUNTRY This section of the Great River Road Scenic Byway goes from Red Wing to LaCrescent. The area includes Albert, Austin and famous Rochester.
TWIN CITIES MISSISSIPPI NRRA, St. Paul. To much to list including the state capitol and the Mall of America.
STATE INFORMATION Addresses and web sites.