St. Cloud
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with St. Cloud's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Arrive in St. Cloud and check into your hotel. Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring homemade pastries and coffee. Afterwards, take a stroll through the beautiful Munsinger Clemens Gardens, enjoying the vibrant flowers and serene atmosphere.
After exploring the gardens, visit the Stearns History Museum to learn about the rich heritage of the area. Stop by a local brewery for lunch, tasting some regional craft beers alongside delicious pub fare. Spend your afternoon wandering around Downtown St. Cloud, checking out unique shops and local art galleries.
To wind down, choose a restaurant along the Mississippi River for dinner, enjoying fine dining with a view. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the riverwalk, soaking in the picturesque sunset. Engage in some live music at a local venue to cap off your first day.
After breakfast, head to Lake George Park for a morning of outdoor activities. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the tranquil waters and take in the stunning scenery. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely hike through the surrounding trails, perfect for birdwatching and connecting with nature.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the park or visit a nearby eatery for a taste of local cuisine. Spend your afternoon biking along the Beaver Island Trail, which offers fantastic views of the Mississippi River and expansive green spaces. Don’t forget to take a break and relax by the water's edge.
Return to the city and enjoy dinner at a cozy Italian restaurant known for its handmade pasta. Afterward, catch a performance at the Paramount Theatre, which often hosts local productions and live music. Finish the evening with a relaxing drink at a laid-back pub.
Start your day with a visit to the Great River Regional Library, where you can immerse yourself in local literature and art exhibitions. Afterward, enjoy breakfast at a nearby diner known for its hearty breakfast options. Take some time to read a book and relax in the library’s inviting space.
Visit the Charles A. Lindbergh Historic Site to learn about the famous aviator's early life and contributions. Enjoy a guided tour of the Lindbergh home and grounds, absorbing the historical significance of the area. Grab lunch at a local café that offers farm-to-table dishes.
Spend your evening at St. Cloud State University’s campus, checking out any cultural events or art showcases happening that night. Enjoy dinner at a popular steakhouse, where you can indulge in a well-prepared meal. Cap off the night with a stroll through the beautiful campus grounds, illuminated under the stars.
After breakfast, head to the scenic Mississippi River for a morning of relaxation. Rent a canoe or take a fishing charter to enjoy the calm waters and perhaps catch a local fish. Breathe in the fresh air and appreciate the stunning landscapes that surround you.
For lunch, visit a riverside grill that offers fresh seafood and light bites. Spend your afternoon at the Riverside Park, where you can lounge in the sunshine, play frisbee, or enjoy a friendly game of volleyball. Explore the nearby shops for a bit of retail therapy.
Return to your hotel and freshen up for dinner. Choose a waterfront eatery for a relaxing dining experience while watching the sunset over the river. Join a brewery tour after dinner to discover St. Cloud's vibrant craft beer scene.
Start the day with a hearty breakfast and then head to the local farmers market, where you can explore fresh produce, homemade goods, and unique crafts. Interact with local vendors and soak in the vibrant community atmosphere. Purchase some local treats for your next picnic.
After the farmers market, explore the mall or unique boutiques downtown for some shopping. Check out local artisans producing handcrafted items, perfect for souvenirs or gifts. Reward yourself with lunch at a trendy café known for its innovative menu.
Dinner tonight is at a family-owned BBQ joint, savoring the smoky flavors of their famous ribs. Post-dinner, treat yourself to a dessert at a celebrated bakery downtown, known for its artisanal cakes and pastries. Enjoy a relaxing evening at a local coffee shop, sipping on freshly brewed beverages.
Get energized with breakfast at a popular local spot before heading out to catch a St. Cloud Rox baseball game at the Joe Faber Field. Experience the excitement of a local baseball game, cheering on the home team. Enjoy the American tradition of ballpark snacks while soaking in the energetic atmosphere.
Continue your sports-filled day with a visit to the St. Cloud Twin Rivers Sports Complex for some recreational activities. You can join or watch some local games or even try out a new sport yourself, like tennis or disc golf. Enjoy a light lunch from the snack bar at the complex.
After a day full of activities, unwind with dinner at a sports bar, where you can catch up on games and highlights over a comforting meal. If there’s a local concert or comedy show, get tickets to enjoy some entertainment before concluding your busy day. Finish off with a nightcap at a nearby bar or lounge.
Start your day with a breakfast packed with healthy options and then head to the Quarry Park and Nature Preserve for a morning of exploration. Take advantage of the numerous trails, lakes, and unique rock formations found in the park. Enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature as you hike through this beautiful environment.
Pack a lunch to enjoy at one of the picnic areas within the preserve, surrounded by stunning scenery. After lunch, continue your nature adventures by searching for unique birds or butterflies in the park. Spend your afternoon unwinding by the water, perhaps even swimming if the weather permits.
Return to the city for dinner at an organic farm-to-table restaurant that emphasizes local ingredients. After dinner, consider visiting a local art gallery to enjoy the work of regional artists. Relax back at your hotel, perhaps with a book, reflecting on your nature-filled day.
Indulge in a leisurely breakfast at a beloved local diner that’s known for its extensive breakfast menu. After your meal, embark on a food tour of St. Cloud, featuring stops at different eateries to sample local delicacies. Enjoy the opportunity to taste a variety of cuisines from the community.
Continue your culinary day with a cooking class, where you’ll learn to make local dishes or explore different cooking techniques. Enjoy the lunch made from your own hands during the class. Afterward, visit local farms or markets to learn about the sourcing of ingredients used in your cooking.
Finish off your gastronomical adventure with a special dining experience at a renowned fine dining restaurant. Savor a multi-course meal, expertly paired with the best wines. Celebrate your culinary journey with a nightcap at a sophisticated lounge.
On your final morning, enjoy a relaxed breakfast at a café you’ve yet to visit, perhaps trying their signature dishes. Take some time to revisit your favorite spots in St. Cloud, capturing the memories before you depart. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the river, soaking in the peaceful ambiance.
Before leaving, stop by the local shops to pick up any last-minute souvenirs or gifts. If time permits, visit the local art studios to see whether any last exhibitions or events are happening. Reflect on your experiences and perhaps jot down some highlights of your trip.
Before heading out, enjoy a farewell dinner at your favorite restaurant from the trip, taking a moment to appreciate the wonderful meals you’ve enjoyed. As you prepare for departure, enjoy a final stroll along the river, reminiscing about the days spent in beautiful St. Cloud. Depart with a heart full of memories, promising to return.