Much of what is now Minnesota formed part of the vast French holding of Louisiana, which the United States purchased in 1803. After several territorial reorganizations, the Minnesota Territory was admitted to the Union as the 32nd state in 1858.

Minnesota, a state in the upper Midwest of the United States, borders Canada to the north, Lake Superior and Wisconsin to the northeast, Iowa to the south, and South Dakota and North Dakota to the west.

Minnesota, is in the north central United States. Near the geographic center of North America, it is bordered on the north by the Canadian provinces of Manitoba and Ontario, on the west by North Dakota and South Dakota, on the south by Iowa, and on the east by Wisconsin and Lake Superior.

9 Charming Small-Town Retreats For Your Next Minnesota Road Trip In a state that offers so much — thousands of lakes, sweeping prairies, hardwood forests, and more — it’s hard to narrow down the best small towns to visit....

Minnesota is in the U.S. region known as the Upper Midwest in interior North America. The state shares a Lake Superior water border with Michigan and Wisconsin on the northeast; the remainder of the eastern border is with Wisconsin.

Minnesota is known for its extensive woodlands, fertile prairies, and numerous lakes, earning it the nickname “Land of 10,000 Lakes.” It also features a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers.

Minnesota may be known for its accent and music icon Prince, but the state is also home to pristine national and state parks, award-winning restaurants, and a vibrant arts scene.

Things to Do in Minnesota, United States: See Tripadvisor's 855,555 traveler reviews and photos of Minnesota tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in June.

Your complete inspiration and travel planning guide to the state of Minnesota, with trip ideas, lodging, attractions, events, free brochures and more. Find Minnesota resorts, campgrounds, and events, plus Minnesota activities like hiking, biking, shopping, theater, and arts on ExploreMinnesota.com

Browse articles featuring the best of Minnesota from cultural icons to the great outdoors.