This Midwestern State is the U.S. counterpart to Scandinavia.

Envision lakeside fun, superb farm-to-table cuisine, saunas, and glimpses of the Northern Lights? Ditch the international trips and visit Minnesota, often dubbed a 'destination dupe' for Scandinavian nations, thanks to its rich history of Scandinavian immigrants dating back to the 19th century. Besides the Minnesota Vikings, The North Star State boasts the largest population of Norwegian and Swedish descendants outside Scandinavia, along with a plethora of culinary, cultural, and recreational offerings celebrating its vibrant Scandinavian heritage.

Similar to the coastal realms of Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, where most urban areas lie by the sea, water activities are a daily delight for many Minnesotans. Known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, Minnesota hosts the headwaters of the mighty Mississippi River and Lake Superior, the planet's largest freshwater lake. Discover this aquatic paradise by navigating the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, kayaking in the Chain of Lakes in Minneapolis, or hiking the shores of Lake Superior. Winter in Minnesota offers endless cold-weather adventures, including Nordic ski trails (check out the stunning Chain of Lakes and Theodore Wirth Park), plus some of the Midwest's finest ski resorts.

Beyond a mutual appreciation for nature, Minnesota and Scandinavia share a unique spirit reflected in everything from a love for hygge (coziness) to a culture of warm inclusivity. Minnesota frequently ranks as the 'least stressed state,' likely due to a balanced work/life dynamic and a strong sense of community—while Scandinavian nations often appear at the top of global happiness rankings. Furthermore, indulge in a delightful spread of tasty dishes, vibrant events, intriguing museums, relaxing spas, and hotels, all infused with a Nordic essence.

Savor Scandinavian flavors at restaurants in Minneapolis-St. Paul

As the cultural epicenter of Minnesota, the capital city of St. Paul and its largest neighbor, Minneapolis, showcase a blend of influences from Mexico, Germany, Somalia, Cambodia, Laos, and of course, Scandinavia. This rich diversity makes Minneapolis one of the most acclaimed food cities in the U.S., with numerous venues serving Nordic-inspired cuisine and farm-to-table delights.

Savor sautéed halibut at Alma, led by James Beard Award-winning chef Alex Roberts, or try pickled herring and salmon glazed with aquavit beurre blanc at Tullibee. The American Swedish Institute’s FIKA offers innovative Nordic dishes crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, including their famous Swedish meatballs. Don’t miss Norway House’s Kaffebar for smørbrød, a classic open-faced rye sandwich. For a relaxed dining and shopping experience, visit Ingebretsen’s Nordic Marketplace, serving specialty Scandinavian foods like Swedish herring and fresh lutefisk since 1921.

Aquavit, a beloved spirit in Scandinavia, is crafted by several distilleries in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, using potatoes or grain infused with herbs. Norseman Distillery, Skaalvenn Distillery, and Dampfwerk Distillery produce aquavit and mix cocktails featuring it. You can also enjoy this spirit at trendy Minneapolis bars like Volstead’s Emporium, Café Lurcat, and the new live music venue, Berlin. (Tip: For those preferring non-alcoholic options, many local eateries offer refreshing zero-proof drinks, or you can visit alcohol-free bottle shops like Marigold or the recently opened Lucille’s.)

For a delightful dessert, explore a variety of quaint ice cream shops that, much like those in Stockholm, remain open throughout winter. Sebastian Joe’s offers hand-crafted, small-batch scoops, while Milkjam Creamery features innovative seasonal flavors. Bebe Zito, created by former Food Network contestant Ben Spangler and his wife, Gabriella, serves savory burgers alongside unique ice cream options like passionfruit-cream cheese and Vietnamese coffee with bourbon and chocolate chips. Pumphouse Creamery provides artisanal flavors made fresh daily using local Minnesota milk. Don’t miss Minnesota Nice Cream, a popular food truck at various events.

Immerse yourself in Scandinavian culture at the spas, hotels, and museums of Minneapolis-St. Paul

Embrace the spirit of hygge at the refined Elliot Park Hotel, situated near the U.S. Bank Stadium, home of the Vikings. Enjoy guided sauna rituals on the rooftop of the historic Hewing Hotel or at the spa within the new Four Seasons Minneapolis. For a sauna experience outside a hotel setting, head to the 612 Sauna Co-Op to steam alongside fellow locals in mobile saunas.

Explore the American Swedish Institute, Norway House, and the Danish American Center for cultural events and dive into Scandinavian heritage during community festivals. Each June, celebrate the solstice in the traditional Swedish way at the Midsommar Celebration. The joy of winter is celebrated during Minneapolis’ Great Northern Festival and City of Lakes Loppet Winter Festival. These family-friendly gatherings, held annually in late January or early February, offer opportunities for cross-country skiing, sauna sessions, s’mores roasting, and shopping for Nordic-inspired crafts at local markets.

Discover Scandinavian heritage throughout Minnesota

The essence of the state’s Scandinavian culture thrives in the small towns scattered across central Minnesota, where the first immigrants from Norway, Sweden, and Denmark settled. Scandia is home to the state’s oldest Swedish settlement and Lutheran church, featuring numerous Dala horses (painted wooden figures from Sweden) and the Gammelgården Museum. This unique open-air museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing Swedish immigrant heritage in the United States, hosting St. Lucia Day each December, marking the beginning of the Swedish Christmas season.

Nearby, explore Lindström, dubbed “America’s Little Sweden,” where you can discover delightful restaurants and boutique shopping. Don’t forget to visit Chisago City for artisan-crafted Sven clogs, inspired by Swedish footwear. Further north, Mora boasts the largest Dala horse in the U.S., a striking red statue that represents the town’s Swedish heritage.

Further north in Detroit Lakes, renowned Danish recycling artist Thomas Dambo is creating his famous Trolls. These enormous troll sculptures, found throughout Denmark and Europe, will see six new additions installed in Minnesota in May and June of 2024.

Discover Nordic crafts and outdoor adventures along the North Shore

Just two hours north of Minneapolis-St. Paul lies Duluth, a key port at the western edge of Lake Superior, where deep blue waves crash into the horizon. This city is a must-visit on your journey along the North Shore, where the hygge vibe enhances your dining, shopping, and recreational experiences. Wander through Canal Park, stroll along the Lakewalk, marvel at the iconic aerial lift bridge, and indulge in local cuisine and shopping. Unwind at Vikre Distillery with aquavit cocktails, enjoy a stay at Pier B Resort, and relax in the Cedar + Stone Nordic Sauna, an authentic guided sauna experience that rejuvenates you while floating on Lake Superior.

After exploring Duluth, journey along Scenic Highway 61, the picturesque route that winds along the North Shore, linking charming lakeside towns with Minnesota’s lush forests and breathtaking waterfalls in its state parks. Here, you can bike, canoe, dog sled, stargaze, and perhaps even spot the elusive Northern Lights. In winter, enjoy a weekend at Lutsen Mountain Ski and Summer Resort or Spirit Mountain, two premier ski destinations offering some of the best alpine and Nordic skiing in the Midwest.

Dive into Scandinavian culture at Grand Marais through experiences like the North House Folk School, where you can try your hand at traditional crafts such as timber framing, basket making, and boat building. In summer, book a session at Sisu + Löyly, a unique floating sauna, and in February, take part in the Hygge Festival, celebrating the warmth of family and friends during the coldest months. Join in the festivities with a sauna series, hockey tournaments, art exhibitions, and sip on mulled wine to toast your adventures.

Wherever you roam in Minnesota, immerse yourself in Scandinavian heritage through fresh cuisine, invigorating outdoor activities, wellness experiences, and a culture that emphasizes inclusivity and balance.

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