Things To Do
in Savage

Savage, United States is a suburban city in Dakota County, Minnesota, part of the Twin Cities metro area. It sits along the Minnesota River and blends residential neighborhoods with parks, trails, and commercial corridors. The town offers a convenient base for exploring southern Minneapolis suburbs while maintaining a tranquil, family-friendly atmosphere.

Outdoor access, local shops, and easy drives to the city make Savage a practical base for visitors seeking a balanced Minnesota experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Wilderness
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café in Savage before heading out to the Silverwood Park for some morning hiking. The trails offer stunning views and an opportunity to connect with nature amidst a variety of landscapes. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife as you enjoy the crisp morning air.

afternoon
:

After your hike, have a picnic lunch at the park while enjoying the serene surroundings and perhaps catching sight of a few friendly squirrels. Spend the afternoon exploring the art installations scattered throughout the park or renting a kayak for a leisurely paddle on the water. The creative energy around you will undoubtedly inspire a sense of adventure.

evening
:

As the sun sets, make your way to a local restaurant to indulge in some regional cuisine that highlights local flavors. Following dinner, take a stroll around the nearby town center, soaking in the community vibe and perhaps enjoying some live music if it's scheduled. End the evening with a nightcap at a cozy bar or with a bonfire under the stars.

day 2
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Begin your morning by visiting the Savage Community Center, where you can engage with local artisans and participate in a workshop. The sessions offer a fun way to learn about local crafts and connect with fellow travelers. Fuel up with a coffee from the center’s café while you mingle and share stories.

afternoon
:

After the workshop, take a trip to the nearby Minnesota Zoo, which is a perfect spot for families and animal lovers alike. Spend the afternoon exploring the exhibits and learning about wildlife conservation efforts while enjoying interactive experiences. Don’t forget to grab some lunch at one of the zoo’s eateries, which offer tasty options for all diets.

evening
:

As evening approaches, head downtown to explore local shops and boutiques where you can find unique handmade souvenirs. Enjoy dinner at a local eatery where farm-to-table freshness is the highlight of the menu. Wrap up your evening by catching a performance at the nearby theater, showcasing local talent and creativity.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🧃Grocery bill (1 week for a small family)$70-120
🎬Movie ticket (2D)$12-15
🚗Gasoline (1 gallon)$3-4
🏥Basic health clinic visit$60-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Proximity to the Twin Cities with easy access to culture and events
  • Family-friendly communities with parks, trails, and safe streets
  • Limited nightlife within Savage itself
  • Commuter-heavy traffic during rush hours toward Minneapolis

Places to Visit in Savage

Visit one of these nice places.

Savage Mill and Minnesota River Waterfront

Historic red-brick mill complex with the river and canal views, especially photogenic at golden hour.

Minnesota River Overlook at Lebanon Hills area

Scenic vantage points along trails with forested slopes and river glimpses, ideal for seasonal changes.

Downtown Savage Riverwalk and bridge vantage points

Bridge and riverfront scenes that capture suburban-Minnesota life and water reflections.

Culinary Guide

Food in Savage

Savage anchors a typical Minnesota dining scene with comfort foods, locally sourced produce, and approachable cafés. Expect hearty dishes, fresh fish, and seasonal specialties aligned with regional tastes.

Savage Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Walleye from Minnesota waters

A classic regional dish featuring light breading and pan-seared or fried walleye, often served with potatoes and vegetables.

Must-Try!

Hotdish

Minnesota comfort food—a casserole typically made with meat, a creamy base, and a crunchy potato or tater-tot topping.

Juicy Lucy

A cheese-stuffed burger originally from the Twin Cities area; look for it at casual burger joints.

Wild Rice Soup

Creamy soup featuring locally harvested wild rice, chicken or turkey, and vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Dakota County Farmers Market

Seasonal market offering locally grown produce, baked goods, and prepared foods; typical weekend hours.

Local Market Districts (Seasonal)

Pop-up markets and street-food vendors featuring Minnesota specialties in Savage or nearby towns.

Climate Guide

Weather

Savage has a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold with snow and occasional subfreezing temperatures; springs are variable with rain and warming trends; summers bring warm to hot days with high humidity; autumn offers cooler days and vibrant foliage. Average highs range from the 20s-30s F in winter to the 70s-90s F in summer, with moderate spring and fall temperatures.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Minnesota Nice

Friendly, polite interactions with a preference for being punctual and respectful in public spaces.

Queueing and personal space

Respect lines, keep conversations considerate, and avoid interrupting others.

Tipping culture

Tipping is customary; compensate service workers with tips in addition to base wages.

Safety Guide

Safety

Healthcare is accessible via nearby clinics and hospitals in Burnsville, Eagan, and Minneapolis. Major hospital networks serve the metro with urgent care centers, specialists, and 24/7 emergency services. Visitors should identify a local clinic or hospital in their lodging area for convenience.

Tipping in Savage

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In the United States, a tip of 15-20% at restaurants is customary for good service; tips for delivery or curbside pickup vary.

Payment Methods

Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; mobile payments and contactless options are common at most venues.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild days with occasional rain; blooming trees and riverside trails reopen after winter; layers recommended.

Summer

Warm to hot days with humidity; long daylight hours; ideal for outdoor trails, river activities, and patio dining.

Autumn

Cooler air and vibrant fall colors along riverbanks and parks; great for photography and hiking.

Winter

Cold, snowy conditions with possible windchill; dress in layers and enjoy snow sports, indoor attractions, and the metro area’s winter events.

Nightlife Guide

Savage at Night

Savage itself has a modest nightlife scene—primarily bar-and-distro options within a short drive in neighboring towns and the Twin Cities. For more diverse nightlife, visitors typically head to nearby Minneapolis or St. Paul for live music, breweries, theaters, and late-night venues. Seasonal outdoor venues and community events can provide occasional live performances within the metro area.

Hiking in Savage

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lebanon Hills Regional Park Trails

A mix of forested hills, lakes, and scenic overlooks just a short drive away.

Minnesota River Bluffs Trail

Riverside trails with views over the Minnesota River valley and seasonal foliage.

Carpenter Nature Center Trails

Woodland trails with wildlife and educational signage to explore nearby Hastings region (short drive).

Airports

How to reach Savage by plane.

Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)

Primary international airport serving Savage and the Twin Cities; 15–25 miles away by car, with light rail and car rental options.

St. Paul Downtown Airport (STP)

Smaller regional airport serving private and charter flights; closer to the Twin Cities metro and accessible by car or rideshare.

Getting Around

Walkability

Savage has a suburban layout with walkable neighborhoods and riverfront paths. Central districts and parks are reasonably accessible on foot, but many attractions require a car for longer trips across town. The area is bike-friendly with some dedicated trails, though overall walkability is best within specific neighborhoods and along the river corridor.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Suburban families make up a large portion of Savage’s population, contributing to strong school systems and community programs.

Seniors

Quiet, established neighborhoods with services and active senior programs.

Newcomers

Diverse communities in the metro area, including Somali, Hmong, and other immigrant populations nearby.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice hockey

A staple winter sport in Minnesota with local leagues and youth programs.

Baseball and softball

Common youth and community leagues with parks and fields in the metro area.

Football

High school and recreational leagues; fall weekend games are popular.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Savage is influenced by regional commuter routes linking to Minneapolis and Saint Paul. I-35W and nearby interstates can experience typical rush hours with heavier volume on weekdays. Public transit options include bus routes and regional connections; during peak times, plan extra travel time to the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Savage.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most places offer vegetarian options such as veggie burgers, salads, pastas, and plate substitutions; ask for meatless versions of local favorites.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is accessible via nearby clinics and hospitals in Burnsville, Eagan, and Minneapolis. Major hospital networks serve the metro with urgent care centers, specialists, and 24/7 emergency services. Visitors should identify a local clinic or hospital in their lodging area for convenience.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide