Cold Spring Area Attractions

We love Cold Spring and the communities that surround it, and we hope you’ll fall in love too.

Riverside Inn is located only 18 miles southwest of St. Cloud and the Mississippi River, so it’s a convenient home base for exploring the “Granite City” and many small towns in the area. Plus, Cold Spring is only about 75 miles northwest of Minneapolis, making it an easy drive from the Twin Cities. 
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With thousands of feet of lakeshore, national and world-renowned businesses, activities for every season, and great food and drink options, the Cold Spring region of central Minnesota is a truly special area to stay and play!

FISHING

Angling is a year-round sport on the Horseshoe Chain of Lakes! From the bank, boat, or ice, you can reel in sunfish, crappie, walleye, muskie, northern pike, bass, and even catfish if that's your preference. There are 14 connected lakes – all accessible by boat!

WATER SPORTS

With so many connected lakes, there’s plenty of room to get out and water ski, tube, wakeboard, paddleboard, paddleboat, jet ski, canoe, kayak, and more. Prefer to take a swim or watch your friends from the beach? We have shore galore no matter your favorite activity.​

WATERCRAFT RENTALS

Whether you love to “party in slow motion” with pals or go solo, there are many fun options for a day on the water. Don’t have a boat? No worries. Our partner property, Riverside Resort, has pontoons, rowboats, canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, paddleboats, and boat motors for rent.

Fun Fact

The pontoon was invented right next door in Richmond, Minnesota! True story!

EAT, DRINK & BE MERRY

Grab a bite to eat at a nearby restaurant or stop in for a sip at a local bar and grill. You can also visit a tasting room or tour a nearby brewery. And make sure you pick up a sweet treat at the nationally awarded Cold Spring Bakery. (Even better: Do all three!)

SPA OR SHOP 'TIL YOU DROP

Book a massage or pedicure at a local spa and spend the afternoon getting pampered. Peruse a boutique or one of the area’s many quaint and unusual antique shops. Or take a short drive to nearby St. Cloud where you’ll find big box and department stores.

TOUR THE COUNTRYSIDE

Check out the apple barn gift shop at Hidden Cove Apple Orchard. Spend an afternoon visiting one of our region’s vineyards and wineries. Or just hop in the car and follow the Mississippi River. You never know what you’ll find around the next bend.

STOP & SMELL THE FLOWERS

Be sure to stop and visit Cold Spring’s Grasshopper Chapel to learn about its unique history and see the lovely manicured grounds. Or take a spring, summer, or fall stroll at Munsinger Clemens Gardens in nearby St. Cloud – it’s a botanical delight. 

Fun Fact

The town of Cold Spring has had a post office in operation since 1857. (If you're someone who loves to learn a bit of local history, make sure to chat with Jim to get some points of interest during your stay!)​

FEEL THE MUSIC

Summertime is prime time for tappin’ your toes! Enjoy free concerts at Cold Spring, Richmond, or other local city parks. Check out FireFest country western music festival in July or Bluegrass music festival in August. Or catch a seasonal musical performed by the Great Northern Theatre Company.​

HEAD TO A BALLGAME

What’s better than a hot dog and a ballgame? Cold Spring is well known by amateur baseball enthusiasts for its "best in the state" baseball park where the Springers and Rockies play. (Brag Alert: Cold Spring has won more state baseball tournaments in their class than any other town in the state!) ​

GET ACTIVE OUTDOORS

Walk, jog, or bike for miles through town and country on the Ricori Trail, which continues to be extended, or go horseback riding at El Rancho Mañana. Cold Spring also has two exceptional golf courses: Rich Spring and River Oaks keep golfers on the green from early spring until the snow flies.

ENJOY WINTER'S WONDER

Ice fishing has long been a favorite cold-weather activity on the chain of lakes. Snowmobile trails are also popular in the winter and are plentiful in this area. Or strap on your skis – Powder Ridge ski area is only 20 minutes away, and there are many cross-country ski trails to be found nearby.

Fun Fact

One of the largest granite quarrying and fabrication companies in the world is located in Cold Spring!

A Unique Hotel. A Unique City. A Unique Experience.

Spend some time exploring Cold Spring and the surrounding area – it’s a truly special destination!  

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