10 Delightful Minnesota Destinations to Explore this Season

As summer comes to an end and we approach the most colorful and to many delightful time of the year, consider taking your retreat or conference to one of these Minnesota group destinations for some inspiration.

Front and Center

The Twin Cities and surrounding communities are vibrant, richly diverse, and jam-packed with fascinating meeting sites, exciting year-round activities, eclectic dining, and world-famous shopping.

The cities of Anoka, Blaine, Coon Rapids, Fridley, Ham Lake, Lino Lakes, Mounds View, New Brighton, and Shoreview comprise the Twin Cities Gateway, with access to all the best the metro has to offer. Dozens of premiere event facilities here open their doors to visitors from around the globe, while community events, a variety of restaurants, hotels, and indoor/outdoor activities keep them coming back year after year.

Bloomington CVB awaits you, just ten minutes south of Minneapolis-St. Paul and home to the world-famous Mall of America. The MSP International Airport is also here, making arrivals and departures a breeze. This convenient destination boasts more than 40 hotels to welcome guests within the Bloomington City limits, and 70 restaurants offer cuisine for every palate.

In Eagan, Minnesota you'll find football, fashion and fun well done! Proud new home of the Minnesota Vikings headquarters and training facility, and the opening soon Omni Viking Lakes Hotel featuring 320 guest rooms and 35,000 square feet of convention space. The destination also features 18 additional incredible hotels, and over 100 dynamic dining destinations, is just minutes from Twin Cities Premium Outlets®, Mall of America®, Minnesota Zoo conveniently located near MSP Airport and both Minneapolis and Saint Paul.

Your best meetings are outside of the boardroom when you team up with Visit Lakeville, where nature meets the Twin Cities. Golfing skiing and fishing allow are plentiful here and allow visitors to enjoy some of the prettiest Minnesota River valley scenery, while local shopping, attractions and events showcase the city’s professional appeal. Featuring over 15 facilities with elegant ballroom and executive conference rooms, this destination is at I-35 south of the Twin Cities, 15 minutes to the Minneapolis St. Paul International Airport and Mall of America.  

Southern Charm

Visitors to southern Minnesota will delight in the area’s fascinating history, natural beauty, and warm, welcoming hospitality by some of the state’s friendliest people. But don’t be fooled by the small-town charm here. These communities boast many of the most state-of-art facilities and activities and attractions in the country.

The hidden gem of south central Minnesota, Owatonna is best known for its world-renowned architecture, historic downtown, and unique attractions. Home to major companies like Federated Insurance, Viracon, Jostens, and Wenger Corporation, it has a thriving business community and event facilities that cater to commerce.

Named “Land Between the Lakes,” the city of Albert Lea resides on the shores of Fountain Lake, Pickerel Lake, Albert Lea Lake, Goose Lake, School Lake, and Lake Chapeau. With so many lakes, it’s little wonder folks are drawn here year-round for the many group activities and stunning scenery that graces the area.

Known as the regional center of southwest Minnesota, Marshall is home to Southwest Minnesota State University Scheduling & Event Services & Red Baron Arena. From shopping, dining and outdoor adventures, to exploring, this southern Minnesota hot spot is big on small town charm.

Explore the Wonderful West

West of the metro lies the heart of Minnesota, home to crystal clear lakes, verdant woods, parks, trails, and main streets that many have called home, including aviator Charles Lindbergh and novelist Sinclair Lewis.

St. Cloud Area CVB appeals to visitors from all across the country with the city’s natural attractions, sporting events, arts and entertainment, and outdoor activities. The state-of-the-art River’s Edge Convention Center draws in the big crowds, while smaller, local venues are ideal for more intimate gatherings.

Take the team to the Willmar Lakes Area and you’ll find more than 100 lakes, arts and entertainment, historical sites, skiing, spas, wineries, and breweries. Relax and unwind after a long day at a variety of hotels, resorts or bed and breakfasts. After a few days, they may just decide to stay.

Known as “Minnesota’s Home Town,” your group will experience a welcoming and accommodating community when they Explore Hutchinson. Featuring ten meeting venues, comfortable lodging, more than thirty restaurants serving a range of cuisines, and history, the arts, and entertainment, your gang will almost certainly agree, there’s no place like this home.

For a complete listing of meeting destinations in your area, visit our Minnesota Destination Meeting Planner Guide.

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