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 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.

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 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.

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 is known for its breathtaking scenery, exciting adventures and fun cities and towns.

Navigate your state and find what you're looking for on Minnesota's state portal.

According to forum posts, travelers looking for scenic routes in Minnesota have several options. One recommended route is from Omaha to Duluth, with suggested stops in Sioux Falls, Albert Lea, and New Ulm, which is noted for its German heritage and attractions like Schell's Brewery.

In this list, we’re rounding up the best things to do in Minnesota—the must-see sights, can’t-miss experiences, and hidden gems that showcase the very best of the state.