Things To Do
in Woodbury

Woodbury, United States (coordinates: 44.9057, -92.923) is a growing suburb of the Twin Cities known for its family-friendly neighborhoods, parks, and lakes. The city blends suburban convenience with easy access to natural spaces like Tamarack Nature Center and the Mississippi River. It offers a well-rounded mix of shopping, dining, and community activities, making it popular with families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy comfortable Midwestern charm, modern services, and scenic trails just a short drive from Minneapolis and St.

Paul.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Woodbury's Nature Trails
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing hike on the scenic Woodbury Nature Trails, which wind through lush forests and alongside tranquil streams. Take in the crisp morning air while keeping an eye out for local wildlife. Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

afternoon
:

After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the designated areas within the trails. Relax and soak in the serene environment, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Spend some time watching for birds or simply resting before your next adventure.

evening
:

As the day winds down, visit a local eatery for dinner, sampling regional cuisine that celebrates seasonal ingredients. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming downtown area, where you can explore local shops and perhaps enjoy some live music. This idyllic setting is perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

day 2
Visit the Historical Sites
morning
:

Start your day at the Woodbury Historical Society, where you can learn about the rich history of the town through fascinating exhibits and artifacts. The knowledgeable staff are eager to share stories from the past that shaped the community. Don't forget to browse their gift shop for unique souvenirs.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the renowned Historic Woodbury Village, where restored buildings transport you back in time. Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the architecture and the significance of each landmark. Explore charming boutiques offering handcrafted goods and antiques that reflect the area’s history.

evening
:

Conclude your historical exploration with a dinner at a cozy tavern that offers traditional American fare. Engage with locals and hear more about Woodbury's past over a pint of craft beer. The ambiance and warmth of the tavern will make it a perfect end to your day.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🧀Grocery item (loaf of bread)$2-3
🚗Ride share or taxi trip (short)$8-15
🏠Monthly rent (2-bedroom apartment)$1,400-2,000
Coffee at a cafe$3-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Strong family-friendly amenities and parks
  • Easy access to the Twin Cities while staying in a suburban setting
  • Limited nightlife within Woodbury itself
  • Commuting to downtown areas can involve traffic during peak hours

Places to Visit in Woodbury

Visit one of these nice places.

Tamarack Nature Center Boardwalk

A wooden boardwalk through wetlands and woods—great for wildlife shots and soft-lit forest scenes.

Rice Creek Trail Overlook

Scenic vantage points along the trail with water, trees, and seasonal foliage.

Mississippi River Vista Points

Early morning or golden hour views of the Mississippi River with city silhouettes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Woodbury

Woodbury’s dining scene blends Midwestern comfort food with diverse options, including family-friendly eateries, cafes, and grill houses. You’ll find plenty of options featuring locally sourced ingredients and seasonal menus.

Woodbury Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Juicy Lucy

A Minnesota favorite—a cheeseburger with melted cheese stuffed inside the patty. Look for it at local burger joints around the metro area.

Must-Try!

Tater Tot Hotdish

A classic Minnesota casserole with seasoned ground meat, vegetables, and a crispy tater tot topping; common in family restaurants and diners.

Lefse

A thin Norwegian flatbread traditionally served with butter and sugar; often available at Scandinavian-inspired cafes and markets.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

St. Paul Farmers Market

Seasonal market offering local produce, baked goods, and prepared foods; a short drive from Woodbury with many tasting options.

Twin Cities Market District (metro markets)

Markets and food stalls across the Twin Cities metro featuring local fare, snacks, and occasional street food stalls.

Climate Guide

Weather

Minnesota experiences four distinct seasons: warm summers with occasional thunderstorms and cold, snowy winters; springs can be wet and falls are crisp with colorful foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Minnesota Nice

Polite, friendly interactions; queue patiently and respect personal space.

Small Talk and Punctuality

Small talk is common; be on time for reservations and meetings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Woodbury is generally safe; practice typical urban safety precautions, lock vehicles, stay aware in crowded areas, and follow local advisories during severe weather.

Tipping in Woodbury

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In the US, tipping 15-20% at restaurants is customary; tip hotel staff and guides as appropriate.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards are widely used; cash is accepted, but cards are preferred at most businesses.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Melting snow and budding trees; showers are common; comfortable layers recommended.

Summer

Warm days with humidity and occasional thunderstorms; great for outdoor activities and lakes.

Autumn

Cool, crisp air and vibrant fall colors; ideal for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold with frequent snow; dress in layers and enjoy winter sports and cozy cafes.

Nightlife Guide

Woodbury at Night

Woodbury’s nightlife is typically low-key with casual bars, cafes, and family-friendly venues. For more vibrant options, locals often travel to nearby St. Paul or Minneapolis for live music, breweries, and nightlife districts.

Hiking in Woodbury

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tamarack Nature Center Trails

Extensive woodland and wetland trails with wildlife opportunities.

Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve

Scenic trails and multiple lakes for hiking and birdwatching.

Airports

How to reach Woodbury by plane.

Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)

Major international airport roughly 25-40 minutes from Woodbury depending on traffic.

St. Paul Downtown Airport (Holman Field)

Smaller airport for general aviation close to downtown St. Paul.

Getting Around

Walkability

Woodbury has walkable pockets around main commercial centers like Woodbury Lakes, but overall it is designed for driving; however, many parks have good pedestrian access and some neighborhoods offer safe sidewalks.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

A large portion of residents include families seeking good schools, parks, and a safe community.

Working Professionals

Many residents commute to the Twin Cities for work in diverse sectors.

Retirees

A portion of residents are retirees attracted to the suburban lifestyle and services.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

Hockey is deeply rooted in Minnesota culture with local leagues and school teams.

Basketball

Common in schools and community leagues; basketball courts are widely available.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Woodbury follows typical suburban patterns, with heavier volumes during commute times on major corridors like I-494 and Highway 94. Public transit is available via connections to Minneapolis/St. Paul; biking and walking paths are expanding in and around town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Woodbury.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most Woodbury restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for veggie bowls, salads, and cheese-based dishes, and don’t hesitate to ask for meat-free sauces and sides.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Woodbury has local clinics and quick access to larger hospitals in St. Paul and Minneapolis; emergency services are readily available, with major hospitals like Regions and campus partners nearby.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide