Location: Hastings
Top Things to do in Hastings
10 Things to Do in Hastings That You Shouldn't Miss
Hastings is a city in Dakota and Washington counties, in the U.S. state of Minnesota, near the confluence of the Mississippi, Vermillion, and St. Croix Rivers. Its population was 22,172 at the 2010 census. It is the county seat of Dakota County, which contains most of it as well as a small part extending into Washington County. It is named for the first elected governor of the state of Minnesota, Henry Hastings Sibley.
Restaurants in Hastings
1. Afton State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 77 reviews
Located near St. Paul, this 1,700 acre-park offers camping, hiking, biking, swimming and cross-country skiing.
Reviewed By jammerspot - Minnesota
Walked down to the St.Croix River and went to the beach. Then took the trail back along the river, then up through the prairie area. Lots of choices for people,bike paths, walking only, beach area for families, flat, scenery, camping.
Can't go wrong on a nice day. Maps available, but signage could be improved.
Natural prairie grasses.
2. Vermillion Falls
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 70 reviews
Reviewed By Bird91 - Hastings, Minnesota
My fiancé and I went to vermillion falls with the intention to spend the afternoon hanging out in our hammocks, listening to music, exploring trails, and watching a glorious water fall. We were disappointed by the lack of trees to hang our hammocks from and the trails were not quite what we wanted. We wanted unpaved trails suitable for hiking a few miles through nature. If we go back to Vermillion Falls, I think that biking the trails would be a better use of our time. There also was not enough room to truly escape the city, too many people and not enough big trees.
If you want to see beautiful water falls, drive further north to Willow River State Park in Hudson, WI.
3. Historic Downtown
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 47 reviews
Reviewed By Dawn H - Waite Park, Minnesota
I did a quick little trip down downtown historic Hastings. I absolutely loved it. The shops are gorgeous and a fun thing I noticed is that each shop seems to have its own smell. And it was really good smells. LOL. I didn't buy a thing while I was there, but every shop owner made a point to say hello, and to thank me for visiting. I was amazed by their friendliness. I hope to head back here someday in the near future.
4. Alexis Bailly Vineyard
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 57 reviews
Reviewed By Vitarachel - Newport News, Virginia
Our large group spent an awesome afternoon here tasting wine and eating yummy snacks. Our tasting journey was led by the barkeep Mike, a sensational guy who kept us laughing while keeping our glasses full. The winery occupies a beautiful spot. Grape vines cover trellises and offer shade. There are bocci courts next to picnic tables. You can bring your own food or buy some snacks (not meals) inside. We had delicious wines, many made with Minnesota grown grapes, and a great day.
5. Hastings Dairy Store
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 29 reviews
Reviewed By danzman - Hastings MN
I love the Hastings Creamery. It's and old town place, But always has fresh food, and I have never bought a gallon of milk that was bad tasting. I hate it when I buy milk at other places, and it is bad tasting, and turning sour right out of the store. But not from the Creamery. It's always Excellant, and Fresh. Try the Milk Shakes. They are the Bomb!
6. LeDuc Historic Estate
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 25 reviews
Reviewed By Eileen R - Hastings, Minnesota
We are members of the Dakota Historical Society and have been tot he Leduc Historic Estate many times. They have many special events which include apple festivals, rhubarb festivals, concerts, evening scotch tasting, and high teas. We take our out of town guests for tours. Be sure to visit their website for hours of their tours so you won't have to sit outside and wait for the next one to start.
7. Afton Alps
Overall Ratings
4 based on 66 reviews
Large recreation area is loaded with outdoor fun including downhill ski runs, and an 18-hole golf course.
Reviewed By chicago90Phoenix - phoenix
I wasn't able to go skiing, but I was able to see the lifts and talk to the local staff on this local jewel located very close to theTwin cities. The grounds are part of a golf course that are quite lush and scenic.
8. Carpenter St. Croix Valley Nature Center
Overall Ratings
5 based on 16 reviews
Reviewed By voltech2 - Minneapolis
This was my second year running the Apple Blossom race and I just loved it! The trails were clean and it was a perfect Minnesota Park!
Loved the buildings and the view was to die for!
I would suggest family gatherings, weddings etc.. as its the perfect spot for something like that.
Great park for walking as well!
9. Spring Lake Park Reserve
Overall Ratings
5 based on 9 reviews
Reviewed By MNDoodles - Stillwater, Minnesota
This Dakota County park is a hidden jewel offering wonderful walking and biking trails and the best overlook views of the Mississippi River in the state. Picnic tables are located in the overlook area and a nice visitor center with restrooms is available. In winter, some trails are groomed for cross country skiing. This is a beautiful park, well worth visiting for a bike ride or a pleasant walk along the great overlook area.
10. Depot Park
Overall Ratings
5 based on 2 reviews
Reviewed By surestop - Minneapolis, Minnesota
This is just a hoot. You over look the train bridge and the have a Freeport Harmony Park right in the middle so much fun to play with.
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