Lakeville, Minnesota: 10 Short Road Trips for Easy Weekend Getaways

on

10 Easy Out‑of‑County Road Trips From Lakeville, MN

If you live in Lakeville, Minnesota (Dakota County) and feel like you’ve already done all the local stuff, this guide is for you. Sometimes you just want to hop in the car, drive 30 minutes to an hour, and discover something fun and new. Here are 10 short road trips from Lakeville that take you out of Dakota County and into nearby places in:
  • Hennepin County, MN
  • Ramsey County, MN
  • Scott County, MN
  • Rice County, MN
  • Goodhue County, MN
  • Washington County, MN
  • Pierce County, WI
Each trip is packed with ideas for day trips, weekend outings, and family adventures that are close to Lakeville but feel a world away.

1. Explore the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes (Hennepin County, MN)

One of the best quick getaways from Lakeville is north to Minneapolis, especially the famous Chain of Lakes. You’re still under an hour from home, but it feels like a mini vacation. What to do:
  • Walk or bike around Lake Harriet or Lake Bde Maka Ska.
  • Rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard in summer.
  • Grab ice cream at a lakeside shop and sit by the water.
  • Catch live music at the Lake Harriet Bandshell when events are on.
On a warm evening, the walking paths are full of joggers, families with strollers, and dogs trotting along happily. It’s a great spot if you want city energy without a long drive. Approximate drive from Lakeville: 35–45 minutes.

2. Museum & Food Day in Downtown Minneapolis (Hennepin County, MN)

If you like art, history, or just good food, plan a city day in downtown Minneapolis. Ideas for your itinerary:
  • Visit the Mill City Museum to learn about the city’s flour-milling past and enjoy riverfront views.
  • Walk across the Stone Arch Bridge for a postcard view of the Mississippi River and skyline.
  • Head to the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden to see the famous Spoonbridge and Cherry.
  • Try a new restaurant or cozy coffee shop in the North Loop or downtown core.
If the weather’s tough (hello, Minnesota winters), this makes a perfect indoor-friendly road trip from Lakeville. Approximate drive from Lakeville: 35–40 minutes.

3. St. Paul & Como Park Escape (Ramsey County, MN)

St. Paul has a different vibe than Minneapolis—more historic, a little quieter, but just as charming. Como Park is one of the most popular spots for families and couples alike. Don’t miss:
  • Como Park Zoo & Conservatory – The zoo is free (donations encouraged), and the conservatory is especially beautiful in the winter when you need some greenery.
  • Stroll around Como Lake on the paved path.
  • Ride the small amusement rides in season (kids love this).
On a Sunday afternoon, this is an easy, relaxing trip. Pack a picnic, find a shady spot, and you’ve got a full day for the cost of gas. Approximate drive from Lakeville: 40–50 minutes.

4. Historic Downtown Stillwater (Washington County, MN)

Looking for a classic river town with cute shops and great views? Head east to Stillwater, along the St. Croix River in Washington County. Things to do in Stillwater:
  • Walk the Lift Bridge and riverfront trail.
  • Browse antique stores, boutiques, and bookshops downtown.
  • Take a St. Croix River boat cruise in the warmer months.
  • Warm up with coffee, wine, or a local brew at one of the cafés or restaurants.
Stillwater is especially pretty in fall when the bluffs along the river light up with color. It’s one of those classic Midwest day trips that never really gets old. Approximate drive from Lakeville: 50–60 minutes.

5. River Bluffs & Wineries in Hastings & Beyond (Goodhue County, MN)

South and east of Lakeville, the landscape changes into river bluffs, rolling hills, and vineyards. While Hastings itself is in Dakota County, keep driving across the river and down into Goodhue County to explore the countryside. Ideas for your Goodhue County road trip:
  • Visit wineries and tasting rooms scattered along the Mississippi River valley.
  • Stop at scenic overlooks above the river for photos.
  • Drive the back roads and enjoy the barns, fields, and small-town charm.
If you enjoy a slower pace, this is a relaxing way to spend a Saturday. Think of it as a mini Napa Valley, Midwest style. Approximate drive from Lakeville to the Goodhue County area: 40–60 minutes, depending on your stops.

6. Outdoor Adventure in Red Wing (Goodhue County, MN)

For a more focused Goodhue County outing, point your car toward Red Wing, a classic Mississippi River town with great views and outdoor fun. Top things to do in Red Wing:
  • Hike up Barn Bluff for sweeping views of the town, river, and Wisconsin bluffs.
  • Walk the historic downtown and check out local shops.
  • Visit the Red Wing Shoe store and museum—yes, including the giant boot.
  • Relax at the riverfront park and watch barges float by.
Red Wing has that mix of small-town feel and big scenery that makes it worth the drive from Lakeville, any season of the year. Approximate drive from Lakeville: about 1 hour.

7. Wisconsin Cheese & River Views in Prescott (Pierce County, WI)

Crossing the border into Wisconsin might sound like a bigger trip, but places like Prescott in Pierce County are closer than you think. This is where the St. Croix River meets the Mississippi, which makes the views pretty special. What to enjoy in Prescott and nearby Pierce County:
  • Walk along the riverfront and watch boats and barges.
  • Grab classic Wisconsin bar food and, of course, some cheese curds.
  • Take a scenic drive along the Great River Road.
If you’ve never done a day trip from Lakeville into Wisconsin, this is an easy first step—new state, same short drive. Approximate drive from Lakeville: 45–55 minutes.

8. Northfield’s Colleges & Cannon River Charm (Rice County, MN)

Head south to Northfield in Rice County, a college town that mixes history, arts, and small‑town charm. Highlights in Northfield:
  • Walk around the campuses of Carleton College and St. Olaf College.
  • Stroll along the Cannon River and the historic downtown riverfront.
  • Check out local coffee shops, bakeries, and bookstores.
  • Learn a bit about the famous James-Younger Gang bank raid if you’re into history.
On a sunny day, you’ll see students biking, people fishing along the river, and families exploring downtown. It feels laid‑back and friendly—a perfect quick trip from Lakeville. Approximate drive from Lakeville: 25–35 minutes.

9. Nature & Trails Around Faribault (Rice County, MN)

If you want more of a nature‑focused road trip, keep going past Northfield to the Faribault area. Ideas for an outdoor day:
  • Hike or bike local trails (there are plenty of paved and natural options).
  • Spend time at area lakes—swimming, paddling, or just picnicking by the water.
  • Explore small-town shops and diners in Faribault itself.
This is the kind of trip where you toss some snacks in a cooler, toss a couple of camp chairs in the trunk, and see where the day takes you. Approximate drive from Lakeville: 35–45 minutes.

10. Valleyfair & Nearby Fun in Shakopee (Scott County, MN)

If you’re looking for pure, high‑energy fun close to Lakeville, head west to Shakopee in Scott County, home of Valleyfair, one of the region’s biggest amusement parks. What to do in the Shakopee area:
  • Ride roller coasters and water rides at Valleyfair (seasonal).
  • Check out events and entertainment in the area (concerts, seasonal festivals, and more).
  • Explore nearby river views and trails along the Minnesota River valley.
This is a great option for families with kids or anyone who wants an adrenaline boost without a long drive. Approximate drive from Lakeville: 25–35 minutes.

Tips for Planning Your Lakeville Road Trips

To make these short road trips from Lakeville easy and stress‑free, keep a few basics in mind:
  • Check hours and seasons: Attractions like amusement parks, boat cruises, and some wineries are seasonal.
  • Pack a “car kit”: Water, snacks, a light jacket, phone charger, and a small blanket are always handy.
  • Mix it up: Alternate between busy city days (Minneapolis, St. Paul) and quieter nature or small-town days (Red Wing, Northfield, Prescott).
You don’t have to travel far from Lakeville to feel like you’ve gone somewhere new. A 30‑ to 60‑minute drive can take you to a river bluff, a new restaurant, a hidden trail, or a different state altogether.

Share Your Favorite Lakeville Road Trip

Have you taken any of these out‑of‑county road trips from Lakeville? Did I miss one of your favorite spots in Goodhue, Hennepin, Ramsey, Rice, Scott, Washington, or Pierce County?
  • Which destination do you want to try next?
  • Do you have a “secret” overlook, café, or trail you love?
Drop your thoughts and tips in the comments—your ideas can help other Lakeville locals plan their next adventure. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends, family, or neighbors who are looking for easy day trips near Lakeville, MN. A simple share can inspire someone’s next great weekend.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

Comments

Post a Comment