This traditional, quaint American town situated on the shores of the Cannon River offers something for everyone!
It’s home to a wide range of attractions and activities, including golfing, hiking, biking, boating, and more.
In addition to its natural beauty, Northfield also has a rich history.
It’s best known as the site of an attempted robbery by the infamous James-Younger Gang that took place in September 1876, which resulted in a battle with the townspeople that ended with the criminals being either captured or killed.
The Defeat of Jesse James Days is a festival held each year on the weekend after Labor Day to honor those who defied the robbers and helped protect the town.
If you happen to be in the area during the festival, it’s a great way to experience all that the town has to offer in a short amount of time.
It features authentic re-enactments of the bank raid, a professional rodeo, car shows, parades, live music, refreshments, and an annual walk/run that takes participants on one of two routes through the town.
Want to know more about what Northfield has to offer? Keep reading for an exciting list of all there is to do here
The 10 Most Popular Things To Do In Northfield, Minnesota
10. Cannon River Wilderness Area
4.5
(81 reviews)
Credit: Gregory Birulkin, Google Maps
Location: 151st Street E Faribault MN
Tel: 507 332 6112
Web Address: https://co.rice.mn.us/Facilities/Facility/Details/Cannon-River-Wilderness-Area-4
9. Fireside Orchard & Gardens
4.6
(181 reviews)
Credit: Fireside Orchard & Gardens, Google Maps
Location: 2225 Lonsdale Blvd E Northfield MN
Tel: 507 663 1376
Web Address: https://firesideorchard.com/
8. O. E. Rolvaag House
5.0
(1 review)
Credit: Jet Lowe, License, Wikimedia commons
Location: Northfield MN
7. Archibald Mill Ruins
4.0
(1 review)
Credit: Kristin Arnold, Google Maps
Location: Dundas MN
6. Waterford Historic Bridge
4.4
(17 reviews)
Credit: Kristin Johnson, Google Maps
Location: Old Avenue Bridge Northfield MN
5. Flaten Art Museum
4.9
(20 reviews)
Credit: License, Wikimedia commons
Location: 1520 Street Olaf Dr Northfield MN
Tel: 507 786 3556
Web Address: https://wp.stolaf.edu/flaten/
4. Perlman Teaching Museum
4.6
(20 reviews)
Credit: Robert Sanderson, Google Maps
Location: 320 3rd Street E Northfield MN
Tel: 507 222 4469
Web Address: http://apps.carleton.edu/museum/
3. Cowling Arboretum
4.8
(35 reviews)
Credit: Scott King, License, Wikimedia commons
Location: MN 19 Northfield MN
Tel: 507 222 4543
Web Address: https://carleton.edu/arboretum/
2. Mill Towns State Trail
4.6
(45 reviews)
Credit: John Jorissen, Google Maps
Location: Dundas MN
Web Address: https://dnr.state.mn.us/state_trails/mill_towns/index.html
1. Northfield Historical Society
4.6
(160 reviews)
Credit: Yarnprincess614, License, Wikimedia commons
Location: 408 Division Street S Northfield MN
Tel: 507 645 9268
Web Address: http://northfieldhistory.org/
Final Words:
Thank you for reading our list of the best things to do in Northfield, Minnesota! We hope it helped you plan the perfect itinerary for your next trip to this fantastic destination. Happy travels!
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