So you're heading to Treasure Island for a night of slots and table games, but you're thinking, "What else is out there?" Maybe your friends aren't gamblers, or you want to make a whole weekend of it without being stuck inside the whole time. The good news is, the Red Wing and Hastings area along the Mississippi River is packed with activities that go way beyond the casino floor. From outdoor adventures to historic downtowns, here’s how to build the perfect trip around your visit to Treasure Island.
Explore the Great Outdoors on the Mississippi
The casino sits right on the banks of the mighty Mississippi, and the riverfront is your playground. Just minutes from the parking lot, you can access the Cannon Valley Trail, a 20-mile paved trail perfect for biking, walking, or in-line skating that runs from Cannon Falls to Red Wing. Rent a bike in Red Wing and make a day of it. For a more immersive water experience, Frontenac State Park, about a 15-minute drive south, offers stunning bluff-top views of Lake Pepin (a wide section of the river), hiking trails through hardwoods, and prime birdwatching, especially for bald eagles in the winter.
Boating and Fishing Hotspots
If you've got a boat, the marina at Treasure Island is a convenient launch point. Lake Pepin is famous for walleye, sauger, and catfish. Don't have a boat? Several local outfitters in Red Wing and Lake City offer fishing charters. For a unique perspective, consider a scenic paddleboat cruise on the river with companies like Paradise Charter Cruises, which often offers dining and entertainment options.
Discover Red Wing's Historic Charm
A 10-minute drive south of the casino brings you to downtown Red Wing, a postcard-perfect river town known for its historic architecture and famous Red Wing Shoes. Stroll along Main Street for boutique shopping, antique stores, and local art galleries. The Pottery Place is a must-visit, housing the original Red Wing Stoneware Company factory where you can watch potters at work and shop for seconds. For a taste of local history, tour the historic Sheldon Theatre, a beautifully restored 1904 performance venue, or visit the Goodhue County History Center.
Local Brews and Eats Beyond the Buffet
While Treasure Island has several dining options, venturing into Red Wing or Hastings rewards your palate. In Red Wing, stop at Liberty's Restaurant & Lounge for a classic supper club experience or visit the Staghead for elevated gastropub fare. Thirsty? Red Wing Brewery offers craft beers in a relaxed setting. In Hastings, just across the river, check out the historic downtown for cafes, breweries like Spiral Brewery, and riverfront dining.
Golfing and Gaming
If your idea of fun involves a club in your hand, you're in luck. The area boasts several high-quality public courses. Mississippi National Golf Links, located just north of Red Wing, features 36 holes designed by architects including Garrett Gill. The Jewel Golf Club in Lake City, about 20 minutes south, offers a challenging layout with incredible views of Lake Pepin from its bluffs. It’s the perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon before hitting the blackjack tables at night.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
The river valley calendar is full of events. In the fall, the area is a prime destination for leaf peeping, and towns host harvest festivals. Winter brings opportunities for cross-country skiing at local parks and the magical Red Wing Christmas Stroll. Summer is packed with events like the River City Days festival in Hastings, with parades and live music, or the Red Wing Arts Festival. Checking local event calendars for Red Wing, Hastings, and Lake City can lead you to a unique local experience during your visit.
Day Trip to the Twin Cities
Treasure Island is only about a 45-minute drive from downtown St. Paul. If you're staying multiple days, it's easy to pop into the city for major league sports (Twins, Wild, Vikings), world-class museums like the Minneapolis Institute of Art or the Science Museum of Minnesota, shopping at the Mall of America, or exploring the vibrant food scenes in neighborhoods like Grand Avenue or Northeast Minneapolis. It turns a casino trip into a full metropolitan getaway.
FAQ
What is there to do near Treasure Island Casino if I don't gamble?
Plenty. Focus on the river towns of Red Wing and Hastings. You can spend a full day biking the Cannon Valley Trail, hiking in Frontenac State Park, shopping and dining in historic downtown Red Wing, touring the Pottery Place, or playing a round of golf at Mississippi National. The area is built for outdoor recreation and small-town exploration.
Are there good restaurants close to Treasure Island besides the casino?
Absolutely. In Red Wing, you have classic spots like Liberty's Restaurant and newer gastropubs like the Staghead. For a unique experience, drive to nearby Lake City for dockside dining on Lake Pepin at places like Nosh or Port 104. Hastings also has a growing downtown food scene with breweries and cafes right on the river.
Can I go fishing near Treasure Island Casino?
Yes, the casino is on one of the best fishing stretches of the Mississippi River. Lake Pepin, just downstream, is renowned for walleye and catfish. You can fish from shore, launch your boat at the casino's marina, or book a guided fishing charter out of Red Wing or Lake City for the best chance at a big catch.
Is Red Wing, MN worth visiting?
Red Wing is absolutely worth the short drive from the casino. It's a destination in itself, known for its beautiful historic downtown, Red Wing Shoes heritage, active pottery scene, and stunning riverfront bluffs. You can easily fill an afternoon with shopping, museum visits, and a great meal.
What is the best time of year to visit the Treasure Island area?
Each season has its charm. Summer and fall are most popular for perfect weather, festivals, and outdoor activities like biking and boating. Fall offers spectacular fall colors. Winter is quieter but beautiful, with cross-country skiing and eagle watching. Spring can be wet but marks the start of the fishing season.
