Lake City Weekend Getaway
At less than 2 hours from the Twin Cities, Lake City Minnesota is the perfect weekend get-away for Minnesota families!
Day 1: Explore Lake City
Breakfast:
Your first stop of the day has to be Heidi's Huggamug Cafe. When I asked for recommendations for things to do in Lake City, Heidi's was by far the top recommendation, and I can see why! The people were so friendly, and the food was great. They have a full coffee bar, baked goods, and a full breakfast and lunch menu, with a great patio to enjoy it on!
Frontenac State Park:
About 10 minutes from downtown Lake City is Frontenac State Park. Frontenac has arguably one of the most beautiful views in all of Minnesota. It is also a bird-watchers paradise-more than 260 different species of birds have been recorded here! We hiked the bluff trail and absolutely loved it. It was a little under 3 miles and offered so many gorgeous views. The best part of the hike? The large fox snake we saw sun-bathing on the rocks! There is also a small natural play area near the parking lot that we loved.
Shopping in Downtown Lake City
Stroll along Lakeshore Drive and Washington Street to browse charming shops. My favorites? Lake Pepin Pearl Button Company, Lakeside Antiques, and Treats and Treasures.
Lunch
Lunch at Big Bear Pizzeria & Deli: This cozy spot serves up tasty pizzas in a backyard garden-like patio. Bonus: they also have ice cream, our favorite addition to any day!
Take a Dip in Lake Pepin
Ohuta Park & Beach: In the afternoon, head to Ohuta Park for beach time on Lake Pepin. Walk the Riverwalk trail, splash in the lake, play at the new playground, or just relax in the sand. Ohuta Park is also home to Lake City’s biggest summer events-Water Ski Days, Float-a-Palooza, and Tour de Pepin. If you want to get out on the water, you can rent boats, including sailboats.
Dinner
Dinner at Kelly’s Lake House Bar & Grill: End your day on the patio at Kelly’s, right on the water. Definitely order the cheese curds.
Day 2: Eagles, Toys, and More
Breakfast
If you’re in the mood for a classic diner, head to Chickadee Cottage, voted Minnesota’s Favorite Roadside Diner. For a quicker bite, Rustic Coffeehouse offers fresh pastries and great coffee.
National Eagle Center
National Eagle Center: About 15 minutes south of Lake City, the National Eagle Center is a must-visit. Perched on the Mississippi River, the center is home to four rescued eagles and a red-tailed hawk. You can learn about their rehabilitation, watch them up close, and even spot wild eagles soaring from the observation deck.
Lark Toys
Lark Toys: Just 10 minutes from the Eagle Center, Lark Toys is one of the best toy stores in the country! Start with lunch in the café, treat yourself to homemade fudge and ice cream, then explore the sprawling shop. The star attraction? The hand-carved carousel you can actually ride.
Hok-Si-La Park: Head back to Lake City to wrap up your afternoon at Hok-Si-La Park, a 252-acre lakefront park with a beach, hiking trails, playground, and interpretive center. It’s the perfect spot to wind down before dinner.
Dinner
Wrap up you last day in Lake City with dinner at The Copper Mug, or Port 104 (where you can also find bowling!).
Where to Stay
Lake City has no shortage of camping spots and rental homes. We stayed at Great River Flats, a brand-new property with stunning lake views from nearly every room. Morning coffee on the balcony overlooking Lake Pepin was the perfect way to start each day.
Whether you’re here for a day or a weekend, Lake City delivers that classic Minnesota summer feeling. Small-town charm, big views, and plenty of family fun. It’s a must-add to your Minnesota Summer Bucket List.
*Our visit was sponsored by Lake City, but all views are entirely my own!*
Have you explored Lake City I’d love to hear your favorite spots! Drop a comment below so we can keep adding to the bucket list!
