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Our family had the sweetest day in Red Wing, Minnesota and I wanted to share it with you in hopes that you would add this adorable town to your Bucket List.

Driving into Red Wing, we felt like we were back in Colorado. This historic town has a large bluff in the background, making it look and feel like a quaint mountain town.

Here are our top 5 favorite parts of the day:

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1. Hanisch Bakery

First, start your day by fueling up at Hanisch Bakery. Hanisch has been voted the best bakery in Minnesota. Their food and pastries are made from scratch and absolutely divine. We purchased a loaf of cinnamon bread for $4 and my boys LOVED it! I was so happy with their coffee selection. They had about 10 to choose from – including my favorite flavor of all time – Highlander Grog!

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2. Hike Barn Bluff

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After fueling up, we hiked Barn Bluff. There are different trails with varying difficulty. We took the moderate path and it was just the right amount of exercise for four boys and their mom and dad.

It was a beautiful hike and you are rewarded with a beautiful view of the Mississippi River when you reach the top.

Fast fact: Poet and writer Henry David Thoreau hiked this bluff on his travels through Minnesota.

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3. Downtown Shopping: Red Wing Shoes

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After hiking, we explored a few shops in downtown Red Wing.

First the Duluth Trading company, then Red Wing Shoes.

A stop at Red Wing Shoes is a MUST when you first visit Red Wing. The store is half museum, half shoe store.

Fun Fact: There are painted boots around town. Make spotting boots a part of your adventure!

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4. Visit Saint James Hotel

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The Saint James Hotel is a great spot to explore, stay the night, and/or eat. We walked around to see the historic artifacts and visit the Ski Jump Museum.

Fun Fact: Red Wing was the Ski Jump Capital of the US

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5. Eat good food!

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We tried to eat at The Staghead – it had good ratings and was walking distance from the shops were were exploring, but they were understaffed and canceled our reservation. We jumped in the car and drove a mile down the road to Bayside Grill. My boys LOVED IT and said they served some of the best burgers they’d ever had!

Other spots to try? Scarlett Kitchen (at the Saint James Hotel), Red Wing Brewery and Rancho Loco.

Here’s a peek into our day:

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Have you been to Red Wing? What would you recommend doing, seeing or eating next time?

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Interested in reading more about Minnesota?

Click here for a Weekend Itinerary in Duluth, MN.

Click here to read my Minnesota Bucket List.

Click here to read 15 Fun Facts About Minnesota.

Click here to read the 20 gifts that Minnesota gave the world.

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