Northfield

Day Trips

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at one of Northfield's local cafes, where you can enjoy freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. After breakfast, stroll through the charming streets of downtown, taking in the historic architecture and stopping by unique local shops. Don’t miss the iconic Northfield Depot, a lovely spot that showcases the town’s railway history.

For lunch, try one of the family-owned restaurants in the area, where you can savor some hearty Midwestern favorites. Post-lunch, visit the Northfield Historical Society and learn more about the city’s rich history, or take a leisurely walk through Bridge Square, where you can often find local events and live music. Wrap up your afternoon with a leisurely visit to the beautiful Carleton College campus, where you can enjoy the stunning landscapes and unique sculptures.

As the sun sets, choose a cozy restaurant for dinner, perhaps one featuring local farm-to-table cuisine. Afterward, enjoy a nightcap at a local bar or brewery, where you can mingle with residents and travelers alike. Consider catching a live performance at the Northfield Arts Guild, where local artists showcase their talents.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast, then head to the Cannon River for a kayaking adventure. Experience the tranquility of the river with the early morning mist rising off the water while paddling through the serene landscape. Be ready to spot some local wildlife as you navigate the gentle waters.

After a thrilling morning, have a picnic lunch riverside with some of the local deli offerings. Spend your afternoon either fishing, fishing, or enjoying a leisurely bike ride along the Cannon Valley Trail, famous for its scenic views. Make sure to take plenty of pictures as you explore the stunning surroundings.

As the day winds down, enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant where you can savor fresh fish and local ingredients. After dinner, take a scenic walk along the riverbanks, enjoying the sunset and the peaceful sound of the river. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local ice cream shop for a sweet treat.

Kick off your day with breakfast at a local favorite, followed by a visit to the Northfield Arts Guild, where you can view local artwork and possibly join a workshop. Immerse yourself in the cultural side of Northfield and get inspired by the creative community. Don’t miss the opportunity to interact with local artists and learn about their crafts.

For lunch, explore the options at the historic downtown and try a specialty sandwich at a popular eatery. After eating, head to the St. Olaf College Art and Art History Department, where you can see impressive exhibitions and installations created by students and faculty. Enjoy a guided tour if available to deepen your understanding of the works displayed.

Dine at a nearby restaurant that specializes in international cuisines, offering a diverse array of flavors. Following dinner, partake in a cultural event such as a theater performance or a concert at one of the local venues. This vibrant evening will fill your heart with the rich culture Northfield has to offer.

Enjoy a nutritious breakfast to fuel your adventurous spirit before heading to the nearby Nerstrand Big Woods State Park for a morning hike. The trails are surrounded by towering trees and wildlife, providing a perfect escape into nature. Take your time to absorb the sounds and sights of the forest as you traverse the paths.

After your hike, return to Northfield for a well-deserved lunch at a local café that emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Spend your afternoon visiting the nearby Carleton College’s Cowling Arboretum, where you can enjoy scenic walking paths and stunning views of the land. The arboretum is a perfect spot to relax and reflect in nature.

Enjoy dinner at an upscale restaurant featuring regional dishes, where you can relish flavors of the season. To end your day, attend a local trivia night or pub quiz, where you can engage with the locals and show off your knowledge. This fun-filled evening will leave you with lasting memories of Northfield.

Start your day with breakfast at a diner that reflects Northfield's historic charm, then head over to the historic Northfield Jail where you can learn about the infamous Jesse James raid. The informative tour will take you back in time, allowing you to understand the city's past. Take time to appreciate the small yet significant details of the building.

For lunch, grab a sandwich from one of the city’s popular delis, then visit the historic St. Olaf Church, known for its beautiful architecture and rich history. Spend your afternoon discovering the nearby local museums, such as the Northfield Historical Society, to learn more about the area's settlement and key events. Engage with exhibits that narrate the captivating stories of Northfield's heritage.

Dine at a hotel restaurant that offers a unique menu inspired by local culinary traditions. Following dinner, head to an outdoor venue for a seasonal event, like a farmers’ market or art fair, that celebrates the community spirit. The vibrant energy of the night will enhance your understanding of Northfield’s close-knit community.

Kickstart your family day with a hearty breakfast at a local favorite spot before heading to the Northfield Historical Society for kid-friendly exhibits. Engage your children with stories of the past as you make history approachable and fun. Look out for interactive displays that are sure to capture their attention.

After a fun-filled morning, grab lunch at a family-friendly restaurant with seating that encourages socializing among guests. Then spend your afternoon at the Northfield Parks and Recreation area, where you can participate in various outdoor activities or enjoy recreational sports. The park offers a variety of amenities to keep kids engaged and active.

For dinner, choose a casual pizzeria that will satisfy both kids and adults with its variety of choices. After dinner, consider an evening stroll through downtown Northfield, taking in the lights and atmosphere of the shops. End your day with a trip to a family-friendly ice cream shop for a sweet treat before a fun bedtime.

Enjoy a peaceful breakfast at a cafe overlooking scenic views, then embark on a serene morning at the Northfield Arboretum to appreciate the flora. The serene environment will allow you to rejuvenate and connect with nature. Bring a book or sketchpad to fully enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

For lunch, choose a quaint café that emphasizes fresh and seasonal produce. Afterward, spend your afternoon at a local spa for some pampering or a massage—perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Alternatively, consider taking a yoga class at a nearby studio to find your center amidst nature.

As the sun begins to dip, opt for a casual dinner at an outdoor eatery where you can enjoy alfresco dining. Relax with a glass of local wine as you reflect on your relaxing day. Consider concluding the evening with a serene stroll through one of Northfield’s parks or along the river.

Begin your morning with a breakfast famous for its artisan coffee and fresh pastries, then prepare to explore local art galleries. The artistic vibe of Northfield is contagious, and you will enjoy browsing through various displays. Visit small studios where artists create their works right on-site.

For lunch, find a trendy café serving inventive dishes, then make your way to the charming shops downtown that feature unique crafts, antiques, and local merchandise. Spend the afternoon chatting with shop owners and discovering the stories behind their offerings. Take your time to hunt for souvenirs that represent your visit.

For dinner, find a spot known for its regional dishes and cozy ambiance. After dinner, enjoy a casual stroll through downtown Northfield, visiting any remaining galleries or shops you might have missed. Attend a local performance or open mic night to cap off your artistic exploration.

Start your day with breakfast at a famous local spot that serves specialty pancakes or omelets. After breakfast, take a short drive to a nearby farm for a morning tour, where you can learn about local farming practices and possibly pick some seasonal fruits. Engage with the farmers and understand the local food culture.

For lunch, return to Northfield and enjoy a meal at a restaurant known for its farm-to-table concept. Spend your afternoon visiting the local breweries or wineries for tastings of locally crafted beverages. Engage with brewers and vintners to discover their processes and the inspiration behind their creations.

For dinner, select an upscale restaurant where you can enjoy a multi-course meal featuring local ingredients. After dinner, consider going to a local bar to sample craft cocktails made with local spirits. Conclude your culinary journey with dessert from a local bakery that’s known for its sweet treats.