26 days in Minneapolis & New Orleans Itinerary

Located on both banks of the Mississippi River, Minneapolis salutes the state's love of the outdoors with numerous lakes, wetlands, creeks, and waterfalls--many connected to one another by a national scenic byway great for sightseeing.

Discover out-of-the-way places like Minnehaha Park and Munsinger Gardens. Explore the numerous day-trip ideas around Minneapolis: Interstate State Park (in Taylors Falls), Minnesota Landscape Arboretum (in Chanhassen) and Kerfoot Canopy Tour (in Henderson). There's still lots to do: contemplate the waterfront views at Lake Harriet, meet the residents at Minnesota Zoo, explore the world behind art at Minneapolis Institute of Art, and contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Cathedral of Saint Paul.

To find maps, traveler tips, where to stay, and tourist information, refer to the Minneapolis online sightseeing planner.

Syracuse to Minneapolis is an approximately 7-hour flight. You can also drive; or do a combination of train and bus. The time zone changes from Eastern Standard Time (EST) to Central Standard Time (CST), which is usually a -1 hour difference. In August in Minneapolis, expect temperatures between 81°F during the day and 64°F at night. On the 14th (Mon), you're off to New Orleans.

Known for its Creole cuisine, rich musical tradition, and nearby swamps and plantations, New Orleans is one of the nation's oldest cities.

Explore hidden gems such as Old River Road Plantation Adventure and Whitney Plantation. Explore New Orleans' surroundings by going to Vacherie (St. Joseph Plantation, Laura: Louisiana's Creole Heritage Site, &more), Evergreen Plantation (in Edgard) and Kelinci Spa & Boutique (in Long Beach). There's still lots to do: look for gifts at Hex: Old World Witchery, steep yourself in history at Beauvoir, examine the collection at New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, and head outdoors with Ultimate Swamp Adventures.

For reviews, where to stay, other places to visit, and other tourist information, read our New Orleans trip itinerary planner.

Traveling by flight from Minneapolis to New Orleans takes 5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or take a train. When traveling from Minneapolis in September, plan for somewhat warmer days and warmer nights in New Orleans: temperatures range from 83°F by day to 83°F at night. Cap off your sightseeing on the 25th (Fri) early enough to travel back home.