At-A-Glance: Exploring Northfield – Fun and Food
Located along the Cannon River Valley corridor, 30 minutes south of the Twin Cities, is Northfield. A great southern Minnesota bicycle destination for a family day trip or biking vacation. The relaxed lifestyle and picturesque surroundings here draw many people out for exploring the hidden treasures of this historic milling town. Here, cyclists can enjoy the local paved trail, local mountain bike trails and a vast network of road biking routes on the scenic rolling terrain, used by stagecoaches for a true touring experience. With a vibrant downtown area, still sharing the history of the famous bank robbery of Jesse James you will find plenty of retail areas, many recreational activities – other than biking, and restaurant choices in town to explore – it’s easy to spend several days here.
Where to Bike when Exploring Northfield, MN
There really is no better way to experience what this community has to offer than on your bike. It has trails that take you through its history and lets you explore all the wildlife it has to offer with its many off-road trails. For those who long for biking on the open road there are many paths outside the town. The local bike clubs has designed many loops in the area ready for you to conquer. You can also make the trek to nearby Nerstrand Big Woods State Park for some more scenic trails.
Available Maps for the Area
HaveFunBiking Northfield Area Map
Northfield Bike Club Ride Routes
Sechler Park MTB Trail
Caron Park MTB Trail
Walk/Hike Opportunities When Exploring Northfield
Cannon River Wilderness Area
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park
Area Bike Shops and Clubs
(507) 331-2636
Bicycle Shop
Cannon River Offroad Cycling & Trails (CROCT)
Main Office: 912 Meadow View Dr,
Northfield, MN 55057
Where to Play When Not Biking or Hiking
122 1st Avenue NE Faribault, MN 55021
5524 185th Street West Faribault, MN 55021
Seasonal apple picking and family fun
(507) 334-9043
1802 4th Street NW Faribault, MN 55021
Bowling, restaurant, family entertainment, take-out food
(507) 334-3262
At some point you’ll have to take a break from the trails. Luckily the community here has plenty to offer. You can explore the town’s history with Jesse James and more at the Northfield Historical Society, go for that perfect bowling score at Jesse James Lanes, or go for a refreshing swim in the Old Memorial Pool. Take a look at more info by visiting their tourism site.
Northfield Historical Society
408 Division St.
Northfield, MN 55057
Riverwalk Market Fair
Bridge Square
Division St and 4th St
Northfield, MN 55057
Jesse James Lanes
1700 Bollenbacher Dr.
Northfield, MN 55057
Old Memorial Pool
801 7th St E
Northfield, MN 55057
Where to Eat when Exploring Northfield
28 3rd Street NW Faribault, MN 55021
Full service bar, darts, billards, weekend live bands
(507) 334-3582
(507) 334-3988
Cheese Shop & Deli
328 4th Street NW Faribault, MN 55021
Daily lunch buffet, Homemade pizza
(507) 334-1672
As you ride the trails during your stay you’re going to need fuel for your body. Thankfully, Northfield has several choices to keep your taste buds and stomach happy. Below is just a sampling of what’s waiting for you as you get into town or are coming of the trails. If these don’t appeal to you, there are many other options to choose from.
Tandem Bagels
317 Division St. S
Northfield, MN 55057
The Ole Store Restaurant
1011 St. Olaf Ave.
Northfield, MN 55057
Hogan Brothers’ Acoustic Cafe
415 S Division St.
Northfield, MN 55057
Applebee’s
2433 Highway 3 S
Northfield, MN 55057
Where to Sleep When Visiting
You’re going to need a place to rest at night. Northfield and the surrounding area has many lodgings available depending on your preference. You choose to spend a night with nature, enjoy some Northfield hospitality at a local Bed and Breakfast, or sleep like royalty in one of the many hotels. Below is a list of favorites, but you can check out more choices on Northfield’s tourism site.
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park
9700 170th St E
Nerstrand, MN 55057
The Magic Door Bed & Breakfast
818 Division St S
Northfield, MN 55057
Country Inn & Suites By Carlson
300 MN-3
Northfield, MN 55057
Public Wi-Fi Spots in the Area
Along with most hotels, many coffee shops and restaurants have Wi-Fi availability. The Northfield Public Library is also a great option.
Northfield Public Library
210 Washington St
Northfield, MN 55057
See the Northfield Tourism Bureau for more detailed information.