Overview

Minnesota is a state situated in the middle of the Western region of the United States on the shores of Lake Superior. Minnesota is famously known as the "land of 10,000 lakes." The word "Minnesota" is derived from the Dakota Indian word which means "sky-blue waters." The 3^rd largest river in the world, the Mississippi has its origins in Minnesota. This state was included as the 32^nd state of America in the year 1858. The history of Minnesota dates back to the ice age and some of the ancient prehistoric carvings by the early inhabitants have been found throughout the state.

When the Europeans first arrived in the 1600s, the Dakota and Ojibwe (also called Chippewa or Anishinabe) Indians were the inhabitants of Minnesota. By the 1860s, a large number of immigrants, especially Germans and Scandinavians, came to Minnesota.

Activities & Attractions

Minnesota has something to offer to every visitor to the state. The city of Alexandria is a beautiful scenic place with unlimited opportunities for recreational activities. You can enjoy fishing in the many lakes that are home to a variety of fish. Brainerd, situated among some of the most beautiful lakes, is yet another popular tourist spot. Among other notable attractions are Northern Lights Model Railroad Association and Museum and the numerous amusement parks in the Apple Valley. The Voyageurs National Park located near the International Falls in Minnesota offers ample opportunities for boating, canoeing, fishing, and hiking.

Symphonies, art museums, theater, dance, performing arts, and ethnic heritage are some of the cultural activities you can enjoy while at Minnesota. Festivals and events such as the Lucia Festival, the sledge dog marathon, and the winter carnival provide ample entertainment to visitors throughout the year. You can enjoy the breathtaking views while climbing the mountains or the natural scenery when you undertake trails through the beautiful forest area. You can also go on skiing trips on cross-country trails and downhill venues.

Lodging

The tourists can avail of a wide range of lodging and accommodation facilities ranging from exquisite resorts with all the modern amenities to lovely bed and breakfast arrangements. The camping grounds in this region offer lodgings in the midst of stunning locales and calmness. The various hotels and motels also ensure a convenient stay. To enjoy the uniqueness and scenic beauty of the lakes, you can also rent houseboats.

Transportation

Buses, taxis, light rails, subways and ferry services are the different modes of public transport that will help you get around the state in comfort. All these systems inter-connect at various points to allow switching from one mode of transportation to another. You can also hire vehicles from reputed car rental companies for more flexibility.