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Nestled along the scenic St. Croix River, Taylor Falls, Minnesota, is a charming town brimming with natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or a day trip, Taylor Falls offers a plethora of activities catering to nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those simply looking to unwind. Explore breathtaking views at Interstate State Park, enjoy a relaxing boat tour on the St. Croix River, or thrill your senses at Wild Mountain. Families can interact with wildlife at Fawn-Doe-Rosa Wildlife Educational Park, while art enthusiasts can wander through the Franconia Sculpture Park. With its diverse attractions and serene landscapes, Taylor Falls ensures a memorable visit for everyone. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Taylor Falls.
1. Interstate State Park
Interstate State Park is a must-visit destination in Taylor Falls, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and geological wonders. As one of the oldest state parks in the United States, it spans both Minnesota and Wisconsin, providing breathtaking views of the St. Croix River. The park is renowned for its fascinating glacial potholes—deep, smooth-walled holes formed by swirling water and rocks during the last Ice Age. These geological formations are a rare and intriguing sight, drawing geology enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.
The park features a variety of hiking trails that cater to different skill levels, from easy walks to more challenging climbs. One of the most popular trails is the Pothole Trail, which takes you past the famous glacial potholes and offers stunning river views. For those looking to enjoy the water, canoeing and kayaking on the St. Croix River are popular activities, allowing you to explore the scenic waterway and its surrounding cliffs.
In addition to hiking and paddling, Interstate State Park offers opportunities for rock climbing, picnicking, and wildlife watching. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers. With its combination of unique geological features, scenic beauty, and outdoor activities, Interstate State Park is an essential stop for anyone visiting Taylor Falls.
Address: 307 Milltown Rd, Taylors Falls, MN 55084
2. Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours
Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours offer a serene and captivating way to experience the natural beauty of the St. Croix River. These guided boat tours provide an opportunity to relax and take in the majestic cliffs, lush forests, and abundant wildlife that line the riverbanks. The tours are a perfect blend of relaxation and education, as knowledgeable guides share fascinating insights into the area’s history, geology, and natural features.
The tour options cater to various preferences and schedules. Daytime excursions are perfect for those who want to see the landscape in full daylight, capturing the vibrant colors and details of the surroundings. For a more romantic or picturesque experience, sunset cruises offer breathtaking views as the sun sets over the river, casting a golden glow on the water. Dinner cruises combine scenic beauty with culinary delights, allowing you to enjoy a meal while drifting along the tranquil river.
The boats are comfortable and well-equipped, ensuring a pleasant experience for all passengers. The guides provide engaging commentary throughout the journey, highlighting significant landmarks and sharing stories about the region’s past and its ecological importance. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing outing, Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours offer a memorable way to explore the St. Croix River’s beauty.
Address: 220 South St, Taylors Falls, MN 55084
3. Wild Mountain
Wild Mountain in Taylor Falls is a year-round destination for adventure enthusiasts, offering a wide array of activities that cater to both summer and winter visitors. During the summer months, Wild Mountain transforms into a playground of fun with its alpine slides, go-kart racing, and a sprawling water park. The alpine slides provide a thrilling ride down the mountainside, offering stunning views and an adrenaline rush. Go-kart racing is perfect for those looking to engage in some friendly competition, while the water park, complete with slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool, is a haven for families seeking to cool off and enjoy some water-based fun.
When winter arrives, Wild Mountain becomes a haven for snow sports. Skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels can hit the slopes, with trails ranging from gentle beginner runs to challenging black diamonds. The resort also offers tubing, a fun and accessible activity for all ages. The ski school provides lessons for beginners looking to learn the basics or for more experienced skiers aiming to refine their skills.
Wild Mountain’s versatility and range of activities make it a popular destination throughout the year. The friendly staff, well-maintained facilities, and beautiful natural setting ensure a fantastic experience, whether you’re racing down a slide in the summer or carving through snow in the winter.
Address: 37200 Wild Mountain Rd, Taylors Falls, MN 55084
4. Fawn-Doe-Rosa Wildlife Educational Park
Perfect for families and animal lovers, Fawn-Doe-Rosa Wildlife Educational Park offers a hands-on, interactive wildlife experience that delights visitors of all ages. Located just across the river from Taylor Falls in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin, this park provides an opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of animals in a safe and welcoming environment. The park is home to a wide array of animals, including deer, goats, llamas, peacocks, and more. Visitors can feed and pet many of the animals, providing a unique and memorable experience.
Fawn-Doe-Rosa is designed to be both educational and entertaining. As you stroll through the park, you’ll find informative exhibits and signs that offer insights into the habits and habitats of the animals. This makes it a great place for children to learn about wildlife and conservation in a hands-on setting. The park also offers picnic areas and scenic walking paths, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
In addition to the petting areas, Fawn-Doe-Rosa features a barnyard with traditional farm animals and a pond where you can feed fish and ducks. The park’s friendly staff are always on hand to answer questions and ensure that both the animals and visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re looking to educate your children about wildlife or simply enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by nature, Fawn-Doe-Rosa Wildlife Educational Park is a must-visit destination.
Address: 2131 US-8, St Croix Falls, WI 54024
5. Taylors Falls Overlook
For breathtaking panoramic views of the St. Croix River and the surrounding landscapes, the Taylors Falls Overlook is an essential stop. Located in the heart of Taylor Falls, this scenic vantage point offers an unparalleled perspective of the area’s natural beauty. It’s a fantastic spot for photography, picnicking, or simply soaking in the serene environment. The overlook is easily accessible and provides ample parking, making it a convenient and enjoyable destination for visitors of all ages.
The Taylors Falls Overlook is especially popular during the fall when the foliage transforms into a vibrant display of red, orange, and yellow hues. It’s a prime location for capturing the essence of the changing seasons. In addition to its natural beauty, the overlook features informative plaques that provide historical context and details about the geological formations visible from the viewpoint. This educational aspect adds depth to the visitor experience, enriching your appreciation of the landscape.
Whether you visit during the bustling summer months or the quiet off-season, the Taylors Falls Overlook offers a peaceful retreat with stunning scenery. Bring a picnic, take a leisurely stroll, or simply sit and watch the river flow by. The overlook is also a great starting point for exploring nearby trails and attractions, making it a central hub for your Taylor Falls adventure.
Address: 101 E Chestnut St, Taylors Falls, MN 55084
6. Franconia Sculpture Park
Located just a short drive from Taylor Falls, Franconia Sculpture Park is an outdoor art museum that spans 43 acres and features over 100 contemporary sculptures. This vibrant cultural destination offers a unique and interactive art experience, where visitors can wander through the expansive grounds and engage with large-scale sculptures in a natural setting. The park is open year-round, providing a dynamic backdrop of changing seasons to complement the artwork.
Franconia Sculpture Park is more than just a collection of art; it’s a community space that hosts a variety of events, workshops, and educational programs. Artists from around the world come to Franconia to create and exhibit their work, often engaging with visitors to share insights into their creative processes. The park’s commitment to fostering creativity and dialogue makes it a lively and enriching destination for art enthusiasts of all ages.
In addition to its permanent collection, Franconia Sculpture Park frequently features temporary exhibitions and installations, ensuring there’s always something new to see. The park also offers guided tours, artist talks, and hands-on workshops for those looking to deepen their understanding of contemporary art. Picnicking is encouraged, and the park provides numerous picnic tables and scenic spots where visitors can relax and enjoy the art in a leisurely setting.
Franconia Sculpture Park’s blend of art and nature creates a unique experience that is both thought-provoking and visually stunning. It’s an ideal outing for families, couples, and anyone interested in exploring the intersection of art and the outdoors.
Address: 29836 St Croix Trail N, Shafer, MN 55074
7. The Drive-In Restaurant
No visit to Taylor Falls is complete without a stop at The Drive-In Restaurant, a beloved local eatery that offers a nostalgic dining experience reminiscent of the classic American drive-ins of the 1950s. This iconic spot has been serving delicious food to locals and visitors alike since it opened its doors, and it remains a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the area.
The Drive-In Restaurant is renowned for its classic American fare. The menu features a variety of favorites, including juicy burgers, crispy fries, and mouth-watering hot dogs. One of the standout items is their root beer floats, made with their own homemade root beer, which has a rich, creamy flavor that perfectly complements the frosty vanilla ice cream. These floats are a perfect way to cool down on a hot summer day or to enjoy as a sweet treat after a day of exploring.
The nostalgic charm of The Drive-In Restaurant is one of its biggest draws. Diners have the option to enjoy their meals in their cars, just like in the old days, or at one of the picnic tables scattered around the property. The retro-themed diner interior, complete with classic decor and memorabilia, transports guests back in time, creating a fun and memorable dining experience.
In addition to its delicious food and charming atmosphere, The Drive-In Restaurant also hosts special events throughout the year, including car shows and community gatherings, further cementing its status as a local institution. The friendly and welcoming staff add to the overall experience, ensuring that every visit is enjoyable.
Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite, a family meal, or a nostalgic trip down memory lane, The Drive-In Restaurant offers something for everyone. It's a perfect stop for those looking to experience a piece of classic Americana in the heart of Taylor Falls.
Address: 572 Bench St, Taylors Falls, MN 55084
Taylor Falls, MN, is a hidden gem that offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and charming attractions. Whether you're hiking through Interstate State Park, cruising along the St. Croix River, or enjoying the local wildlife, there's something for everyone in this picturesque town. Plan your visit to Taylor Falls and discover why it’s a top destination for a memorable getaway. Check out a guide here to make the most of your trip!
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