Experience the beauty and charm of Minnesota on this garden-themed tour filled with history, nature, and local culture. Highlights include visits to private gardens, the Mill City Museum, Stone Arch Bridge, Como Park Conservatory, Summit Avenue, and Paisley Park. Enjoy a Lake Minnetonka boat cruise, stroll through the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, and explore Stillwater by trolley. This journey will leave you with lasting memories of vibrant blooms and peaceful landscapes in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.
DAY 1: WELCOME TO MINNESOTA!
Begin your Minnesotan adventure with an evening welcome dinner — an opportunity to meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers. D
DAY 2: MILL CITY MUSEUM/STONE ARCH BRIDGE/LYNDALE PARK
This morning, we’ll head into the heart of Minneapolis. Begin with an exclusive visit to a private garden, where we can enjoy the peaceful beauty of a hidden urban oasis. Next, explore the Mill City Museum, located in the ruins of what was once the world’s largest flour mill, to uncover the city’s industrial past along the Mississippi River. The tour continues with a stroll across the iconic Stone Arch Bridge, offering stunning views of the river and Minneapolis skyline. Finally, unwind at Lyndale Park, where vibrant gardens and peaceful walking paths await. B, L
DAY 3: COMO PARK/GARDENS OF RICE CREEK/SUMMIT AVE
Spend a delightful day exploring some of the Twin Cities’ most picturesque and historic destinations. Begin at the Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, where you can enjoy a vibrant blend of exotic animals and lush botanical gardens. Then, venture to the Gardens of Rice Creek for a peaceful walk through meticulously landscaped grounds and native plants that highlight Minnesota’s natural beauty. The day concludes with a tour of Summit Avenue, one of the country’s longest stretches of preserved Victorian architecture where historic homes tell the story of St. Paul’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. B, D
DAY 4: PAISLEY PARK/LAKE MINNETONKA/MINNESOTA LANDSCAPE ARBORETUM
Today blends music, nature, and scenic beauty that is sure to be memorable. A visit to Paisley Park offers a rare glimpse into the creative world of music legend Prince at his former home and recording studio. In Waconia, a peaceful private garden provides a quiet escape surrounded by natural charm. A relaxing boat cruise on Lake Minnetonka showcases sweeping views of the shoreline and calm waters. At the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, this stop offers flowering gardens, native woodlands, and wetlands, highlighting the natural beauty of Minnesota’s diverse ecosystems.
B, L
DAY 5: STILLWATER HISTORIC TROLLEY/NURSERY GARDEN
This morning, we’ll travel to Stillwater to enjoy a historic trolley tour through one of the state’s oldest towns filled with stories, architecture, and scenic river views. A visit to a nearby nursery follows, showcasing a vibrant array of plants and blooms. The day concludes with a special farewell dinner featuring local dishes, creating a warm and festive atmosphere to celebrate our journey together. B, D
DAY 6: FAREWELL MINNESOTA
Return home, departing with lasting memories of vibrant blooms, peaceful landscapes, and the unique charm of the North Star State. B
Quality Accommodations:
Nights 1-5: Hilton Minneapolis, Bloomington
Dates:
Aug 6-11, 2026
Price Per Person:
Double - $2,099
Single - $2,499
Pre/Post Tour Pricing:
$149/night
Depart/Return:
Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN
Inclusions:
Free airport shuttle or hotel parking
Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions, meals, and drivers
Luggage handling at most hotels
24-hour emergency call service
Free bottled water on coach
Arrival Time
Our Welcome Dinner on Day 1 is at our hotel, Hilton Minneapolis/Bloomington, starting at 6:30 p.m. We recommend scheduling your flight to arrive by 4:00 p.m.
Departure Time
Schedule your flight home to depart the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport any time on Day 6.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
Our starting hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service to/from the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. If you are driving to the starting location, they also offer complimentary parking for the duration of the tour.
Walking Distance
To fully enjoy your vacation, you should be in good physical health and understand there are times when a good deal of walking is involved in our tours. Those who have difficulty walking may not want to take this trip or should discuss their personal situation with their doctor before deciding. You should be able to walk at a steady pace up to a mile at a time for a daily total of three to four miles per day and be able to manage steps to board/de-board the motorcoach several times a day. In addition, please know you may be expected to exit the motorcoach at each stop because local law requires mandatory motorcoach driver breaks.
Due to the lack of proper facilities at some of the farms, ranches, and off-the-beaten-path sites we often visit, we are unable to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.
Average Temps
August – high of 85° F, low of 60° F
Time Zone
Central
Hotel Amenities
Most accommodations arranged by Country Travel Discoveries are equipped with in-room amenities such as a hair dryer, iron, and coffee maker. In addition, some properties may also have a pool, fitness center, or laundry facilities.
Additional Information
A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.
Dress on tour is casual. Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, visors, and comfortable walking shoes will add to your enjoyment of this tour.
The hotel for the duration of the tour offers a complimentary shuttle to the Mall of America.
Travel Protection Available?
Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.
