Getaway Guide: One-Tank Trip to Red Wing

Red Wing, Minnesota sits within the bluffs of the upper Mississippi River. It is a historic town that oozes with distinguished charm, but in a relaxed, disarming way. Visitors will find plenty of options to tailor a getaway to fit their interests, whether that be shopping for locally-made goods, soaking up the outdoors or enjoying a fine meal.

Getting There

Getting to Red Wing is an easy, one hour drive from the Twin Cities.  Follow I-494 East from St. Paul to U.S. Highway 61 South.  This will take you along the Minnesota side of the Mississippi River.  Hastings is a nice town to stop in mid-way and provides river-view dining options and antique shopping on Main Street.

What To Do

Mississippi National Golf Links
409 Golf Links Drive
Red Wing, MN 55066
(651) 388-1874
www.wpgolf.com/mississippi

Mississippi National Golf Links features two championship 18-hole golf courses, the Tournament Course and Highlands. Tournament Course has been host to the U.S. Amateur qualifying, the U.S. Senior Open qualifying and the Minnesota Section PGA Championship. The Highlands boasts a 150-foot drop from tee to green on hole 17. Both courses are open to the public and embrace beautiful views of the Mississippi River and surrounding valley.

Red Wing Pottery and Shops
1920 W Main St
Red Wing, MN 55066
(651) 388-3562
www.redwingpottery.com

Red Wing Pottery has been one of the staples of this historic river town since it opened over 140 years ago. It sells large pottery, dinnerware and other gifts within its salesroom and also houses a number of other gift stores including Fiacre's Garden Shop, Old Fashioned Candy Shop and Gift Gallery. The pottery studio allows visitors to watch potters wheel-throw and decorate pottery seven days a week. Store hours vary with the season and holidays, so visit the website when planning your trip.

Hike Barn Bluff
All trails begin and end at E 5^th St
Red Wing, MN 55066
(651) 385-3600
www.red-wing.org/barnbluff.html

For a phenomenal view of Red Wing and the Mississippi River from nearly 340 feet above, take the moderate hike up to Barn Bluff. Depending upon your skill and which trail you take, the whole trek will take an hour or two. Keep your eyes open for hawks, bald eagles or a beautiful sunset and don't forget your camera.

Red Wing Trolley Company
406 Main St in the St. James Hotel
Red Wing, MN 55066
(651) 380-3220
www.redwingtrolley.com

A leisurely way to see the historic sites of Red Wing is by trolley. Red Wing Trolley Company gives narrated 50-minute tours and allows guests to hop on and off the trolley all day. Tours board at the St. James Hotel and continue to such sites as the Red Wing Pottery district, Barn Bluff and the downtown area.

Where To Eat

St. James Hotel – either at The Port or The Veranda
406 Main St
Red Wing, MN 55066
(800) 252-1875
www.st-james-hotel.com/stjames/thePort
www.st-james-hotel.com/stjames/theVeranda

The St. James Hotel, a staple of luxury in Red Wing since 1875, has two terrific dining options in both The Port and The Veranda. The Port is perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion. It serves dinner only and carries an extensive selection of wines, even winning Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence. The Veranda is an excellent choice for any meal. The atmosphere is more casual and great for families, providing a variety of indoor and outdoor seating options overlooking the Mississippi River. 

Bev's Cafe
221 Bush St
Red Wing, MN 55066
(651) 388-5227
www.bevscafe.com

For a great breakfast or lunch spot, check out Bev's Cafe. This quaint neighborhood joint offers up an extensive menu full of burgers, salads, soups, pies and more. Each week boasts new house specialties so check out the website before your visit to see what's in store. Some staples include the Juicy Lucy burger with cheese cooked inside the patty, the Hot Meatloaf Sandwich and a slice of Black Forest Cheesecake. The whole family will enjoy a meal at Bev's.