{"id":2424,"date":"2017-08-02T09:00:29","date_gmt":"2017-08-02T14:00:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/daytripper28.com\/?p=2424"},"modified":"2024-02-26T16:43:57","modified_gmt":"2024-02-26T22:43:57","slug":"how-to-spend-a-weekend-in-taylors-falls-minnesota","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/daytripper28.com\/how-to-spend-a-weekend-in-taylors-falls-minnesota\/","title":{"rendered":"17 Things To Do In Taylors Falls Minnesota + Itineraries"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Are you planning a trip to Taylors Falls, MN, and the St. Croix River Valley but are unsure where to start? Look no further! The area is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and has plenty of activities to keep you busy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The first time I went, we drove through it so quickly that I questioned what the big deal was. But what I soon realized was that they built it for someone just like me. The things to do in Taylors Falls and Saint Croix River Valley are plentiful<\/strong>. I just didn\u2019t know where to look.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since my first adventure, I keep finding myself coming back to Taylors Falls MN to explore. It helps that it\u2019s a quick day trip from Minneapolis<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The town is an outdoor lover\u2019s playground, with so many ways to take advantage of the national landscape. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

During the summer months, the town explodes with fun! Here is my list of favorite things to do in Taylors Falls, MN, and the Saint Croix River Valley in WI.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

*Wild Mountain in Taylors Falls and the Holiday Inn in St. Croix Falls hosted<\/a> me on one of my many weekend trips to Taylors Falls, MN. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Things to do in Taylors Falls MN<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Taylors Falls Hiking in Interstate Park<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Interstate State Park<\/a> is in both Minnesota and Wisconsin. They are home to some of the largest glacial potholes<\/a> in the world, adding to the Taylors Falls Hiking exp<\/a>erience. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

After finding a parking spot, walk on the paved trail toward the river and meet up with one of their paved paths.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This will lead you to all the must-see formations, including the giant pothole you can walk into. Or explore on your own and go boulder hopping. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

There is so much to explore, and you do not even have to be in shape to do any of it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are completing the MN State Park Hiking Club<\/a>, make sure to check out my full Hiking Club Trail review<\/a>. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n

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\"Hiking<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Rock Climbing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On a nice day, you’ll see a lot of ropes hanging from the cliffs. That’s because it’s an excellent spot for Rock Climbing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Climbers line the cliffs because there are great climbing routes for beginners to advanced climbers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to give it a try yourself, check out the offerings from REI<\/a> and Vertical Endevors<\/a>. They frequently have classes and trips to the area. <\/p>\n\n\n

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Wild Mountain Taylors Falls<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Cool off on a hot summer\u2019s day at Wild Mountain in Taylors Falls<\/a>. The park offers two Alpine Slides, four water slides, a Kid’s Adventure Island, a Lazy River, Go-Carts, and a Free Fall experience with a giant airbag. Everyone will find something fun to do at the Taylors Falls Water Park. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

During winter, Wild Mountain is an epic skiing hill. They start making snow earlier in the season than most. These two fun things to do in Taylors Falls are so much fun!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wild mounting is so much fun, make sure to check out: Wild Mountain Waterpark | Family Fun<\/a> for a full review. Don’t forget your Tote Bag<\/a> to keep everything organized.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Wild<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Get a look at the river from a new perspective. The Taylors Falls Boat Tours are a perfect way to explore another fun side of Taylors Falls. They run multiple times a day and even offer a dinner cruise. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On the boat ride, your captain will point out some of the unique rock formations formed by the glaciers. You’ll also find out how the logging industry shaped the town’s history. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours | A Ride Down the St. Croix River<\/a> is so much fun. Get all the tips and tricks before you go!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n

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Rent a Kayak and float down the St. Croix<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s not quite tubing, but it\u2019s not exactly a hard workout either. That\u2019s because the river does most of the work. For a relaxing trip, head down the river on a kayak. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Taylors Falls Canoe<\/a> has canoe rentals and kayak rentals. They handle all the logistics of the trip. In most cases, no experience is necessary. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

They offer quick trips down to Osceola or continue on for an all-day trip to William O’Brien State Park<\/a>. The river is calm, making it a great way to explore the St Croix River.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Kayaking<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Visit a Winery or Two<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The St. Croix River Valley provides excellent soil to grow grapes. The growers have taken full advantage of this based on the number of wineries in the area. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

There is Wild Mountain Winery<\/a>, and the Chateau St. Croix<\/a> all minutes from Taylors Falls, Minnesota. Winehaven Winery<\/a> is about 30 minutes west of Taylors Falls and has a Honey Wine you have to try! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

My favorite is Chateau St. Croix, just because of its unique design. It looks like it was plucked right out of France. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

They also offer live music, free tours, and snacks. Their vineyard makes a good portion of their wine from the grapes grown on-site. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Make sure to bring an insulated wine cooler<\/a> and take our purchases to a picnic spot around town.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more info, check out Chateau St. Croix Winery | Wine, Tours, Music and More<\/a> right near Taylors Falls in St Croix Falls.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n

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Miniature Golf<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The Drive-In has its own miniature golf course. This 18-hole golf course has waterfalls, ponds, and streams to provide some added challenges. It is a great way to spend an hour. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you purchase a kids’ meal at the Drive-in, you might even get a coupon for a free round of golf. Check it out! This family-friendly activity is a favorite thing to do in Taylors Falls<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Franconia Sculpture Garden<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Just west of Taylors Falls is the Franconia Sculpture Garden.<\/a> A non-profit artist\u2019s organization operates the 43-acre outdoor sculpture garden. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open year-round and free to the public, this garden includes over 40 unique works from local artists. Take your time and explore the Franconia Sculpture Park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I recommend visiting when it’s overcast or a little cooler as there is little to no shade. Or do what I do and carry an umbrella<\/a> when it gets too bright out.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n

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\"Frontinac<\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Ride the Osceola Saint Croix River Train<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The Osceola Saint Croix River Train<\/a> travels from Wisconsin to Minnesota and back again. They use historical trains to take passengers on this round-trip journey. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train cars all have a distinct look and feel, so explore them all. Get there early as the train leaves promptly and parking can be a little tricky.<\/p>\n\n\n

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\"Train<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Find the Waterfalls<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

One of the best waterfalls you\u2019ll see is in Osceola Wisconsin, located off Cascade Street. This waterfall named Wilkie Glen and Cascade Falls will have you wanting to jump right in the water and start playing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

To get to the park along Depot Road and head towards Sodie’s Cigar Shops. To the left of the shop is a series of wooden steps, taking you right to the falls. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can walk in the stream to cool off and even go right under the 25 ft waterfall. Bring some sturdy sandals<\/a>, pack a picnic, and don\u2019t forget the camera.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Take a Historic Walking tour of Taylors Falls<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The city is filled with historic properties. Before you leave, watch their YouTube<\/a> series learning about all the city’s origins, history, and photos from the past. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Then see what Downtown Taylors Falls looks like today following the Walking Tour Map<\/a>. It’s a completely free self-guided tour and gives a lot of wonderful insight into how Taylors Falls came to be. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Love small towns like these? Make sure to check out some of my favorite MN Road Trips<\/a>! 16 of the Best Day Trips from Minneapolis You Need to Take<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

FAWN-DOE-ROSA Wildlife Park<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Fawn-Doe-Rosa Wildlife Park<\/a> is a unique experience your kids will love. This small wildlife park has deer, elk, geese, wolves, and a mountain lion. You can see them all from a path through the woods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When you are done walking around the park, stop in at their petting area. There you can meet the newest members of the wildlife park in Taylors Falls. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Almost all the animals were born on the property and taken care of by hand, making them friendly. Stop in and check it out!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Miracle at Big Rock Holiday Lights<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

During winter, make sure to check out the Holiday Lights over at Miracle at Big Rock. They have a huge display over their beautiful grounds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Make sure to dress warm, bring a sled for the kids, and be ready to have some fun!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is a great Christmas Light Display. I was shocked at how close it was to Taylors Falls. I highly recommend visiting. Click here for more information<\/a>. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n

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\"Miracle<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Ice Age Trail<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There is also the trailhead for the Ice Age Trail<\/a>, a backpacking trail that goes across the entire state of Wisconsin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Ice Age Trail is a 1,200-mile-long hiking trail that follows the edge of the last glacier in the state. The trailhead near Taylors Falls is for the Minnesota portion of the trail. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want a taste, do a day hike along the trail. It offers a variety of terrains and scenic vistas for hikers to enjoy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to Eat in Taylors Falls<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Juneberry Caf\u00e9<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you need a quick sandwich, you gotta check out Juneberry Cafe<\/a>. On Bench Street, just across from Interstate State Park. The caf\u00e9 makes your food to order. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

With indoor seating and a few tables outdoors, for guests. If you can’t find anything, take it to go and head over to the park and picnic cliffside. Don’t forget to get your sweet treats too. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tangled Up In Blue<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for an excellent dinner? Tangled Up in Blue<\/a> is where it’s at. They serve fresh fish & seafood, hand-selected beef fillets, and desserts made to order. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Call ahead or get there early because, on a weekend, this place will fill up fast. They are also along Bench Street, making them really easy to find. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Drive-In<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The drive-in is most recognizable by the large rotating root beer mug out front. The best milkshakes you\u2019ll ever find are at The Drive-In<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this 50s-style restaurant, you can pull up your car, and the servers come to you. Serving old fashion favorites like onion rings and burgers, the Drive-In all in the trademarked poodle skirts. They even have gluten-free items. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The food is amazing. I’ve stopped in multiple times for quick service. Plus, if you get a kid’s meal, you often get a free round of mini-golf!<\/p>\n\n\n

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The Watershed Caf\u00e9<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Just outside of Taylors Falls, in Oscello is the Watershed Cafe<\/a>. They serve simple comfort foods with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The food is delicious, but the best reason to go is to sit on their deck overlooking the river valley. Below the deck is the trail to the waterfall I mentioned earlier. <\/p>\n\n\n

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\"Watershed<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Places to stay in Taylors Falls<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Holiday Inn<\/a> in St. Croix Falls in Wisconsin is just a few minutes from the border. They have great rooms, a swimming pool, and a continental breakfast in the morning. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for something a little more rustic, check out Interstate State Park<\/a>, in either Minnesota<\/a> or Wisconsin<\/a>. There is also some private campground just outside of Taylors Falls to stay at too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Taylors Falls hotel stays and camping fills up fast. Make sure to book your vacation in advance by clicking here<\/a><\/em>. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Taylors Falls Day Trip Itineraries<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Wine Lovers Itinerary<\/h3>\n\n\n\n