Things To Do
in Inver Grove Heights

Elevated viewpoints along the river provide wide water views, especially striking at sunrise or golden hour.

Hilltop vantage points in local parks offer sweeping views of the valley, wetlands, and treetops, ideal for wide-angle landscape shots.

Forested trails with creek crossings and seasonal light filtering through the trees—great for nature photography and wildlife chances.

Along the riverfront paths, capture long shadows and pink skies during late evenings, with silhouettes of trees and kayaks on the water.

A quintessential Minnesota comfort dish—a baked casserole of ground meat, vegetables, and cream of mushroom soup topped with crispy tater tots. Common at local diners and community events, and a reliable taste of home.

Must-Try!

Golden-fried or baked walleye, a staple on Minnesota menus, especially near lakes and rivers. Ideal for a casual lunch or dinner with sides like coleslaw and potatoes.

A soft Norwegian flatbread-like accompaniment made with potatoes and flour, often served with butter and sugar or savory toppings at festive markets and Scandinavian-inspired eateries.

Creamy soup featuring Minnesota’s native wild rice—comforting and hearty, frequently found on midwestern menus in fall and winter.

Seasonal markets in neighboring towns offer fresh produce, cheese, bread, and ready-to-eat bites. Great for picking up local ingredients and trying small bites from local vendors.

Community events and seasonal fairs feature local vendors with street food, baked goods, and regional specialties worth sampling.

In restaurants and bars, customary tips are 15–20% of the pre-tax bill. For smaller establishments, $1–$2 per drink or a small tip is appreciated. Tipping on the pre-tax amount is common practice.

Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted. Contactless payments (tap-to-pay) are common, and many venues also support mobile wallets. ATM access is available in shopping centers and banks.

Warm days with lush greenery; afternoon thunderstorms are common. Take advantage of long daylight hours for outdoor photos, outdoor dining, and riverfront walks.

Crisp air and vivid fall foliage create excellent color palettes for photography and scenic walks. Expect cool mornings and comfortable afternoons.

Cold temperatures and snow transform the landscape into a quiet, monochrome canvas. Dress in layers and shoot early or late to catch soft light and frosted scenes.

Mild and often rainy, with budding trees and migrating birds. Great for macro shots of new growth and fresh street-side scenes.

Major international gateway about a 25–40 minute drive depending on traffic; frequent domestic and international flights, rental cars, and transit options.

General aviation airport closer to metro area; convenient for private planes and shorter trips.