Things to Do in Hinckley, United States of America

Hinckley, Minnesota, is a small historic town located about 90 miles north of Minneapolis-St. Paul, nestled in the scenic pine forests of east-central Minnesota. This charming community is perhaps best known for its tragic yet resilient history, having been nearly destroyed in the Great Hinckley Fire of 1894, one of the most devastating wildfires in American history. Today, the town serves as a gateway to Minnesota's outdoor recreation areas and casino gaming. Visitors to Hinckley will find a peaceful retreat that combines historical significance with natural beauty and modern entertainment. The town offers easy access to state parks, lakes, and forests, making it an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts. Grand Casino Hinckley serves as a major draw for visitors seeking gaming, dining, and entertainment, while the surrounding area provides excellent opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing in Minnesota's pristine wilderness.

Top Things to Do in Hinckley

Grand Casino Hinckley Gaming and Entertainment

This full-service casino resort features slot machines, table games, bingo, and poker in a modern gaming facility. The complex also includes multiple restaurants, live entertainment venues, and a hotel, making it a complete destination for visitors seeking both gaming excitement and comfortable accommodations.

Booking Tip: Hotel packages often include gaming credits and dining discounts, with best rates typically available Sunday through Thursday. Book entertainment shows in advance as popular acts sell out quickly, and consider joining the players club for additional perks and discounts.

Hinckley Fire Museum Historical Experience

This fascinating museum tells the story of the devastating 1894 Great Hinckley Fire through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays. Visitors can learn about the heroic rescue efforts, including the famous train that saved hundreds of lives, and understand how this tragedy shaped the community's resilience and rebuilding efforts.

Booking Tip: Admission is typically under $10 for adults with group discounts available. The museum operates seasonally from May through October, so check hours before visiting. Guided tours can be arranged for groups with advance notice.

St. Croix State Park Outdoor Adventures

Located just a short drive from Hinckley, this expansive state park offers hiking trails, canoeing on the St. Croix River, fishing, and camping opportunities. The park features diverse ecosystems including prairies, hardwood forests, and river bottomlands, providing excellent wildlife viewing and photography opportunities throughout the seasons.

Booking Tip: Daily vehicle permits cost around $7, or purchase an annual state parks pass for $35 if visiting multiple parks. Camping reservations are essential during summer months and can be made up to 120 days in advance through the Minnesota state park reservation system.

Grindstone Lake Recreation

This beautiful lake offers excellent fishing for walleye, northern pike, and bass, along with opportunities for boating, swimming, and lakeside relaxation. The clear waters and surrounding forest create a perfect setting for water sports, picnicking, and enjoying Minnesota's lake country atmosphere.

Booking Tip: Public boat launches are available, and fishing licenses can be purchased online or at local bait shops for around $25 for non-residents. Boat rentals are available at nearby resorts, with pontoon boats being popular for families and ranging from $200-300 per day.

Pine County History and Nature Exploration

The surrounding Pine County area offers numerous trails, parks, and natural areas perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and experiencing Minnesota's north woods ecosystem. Visitors can explore old logging roads, spot deer and other wildlife, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the region's forests and wetlands.

Booking Tip: Most trails and natural areas are free to access, though some county parks may charge a small day-use fee. Spring through fall offers the best hiking conditions, while winter provides opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on many trails.

Getting There

Hinckley is easily accessible by car via Interstate 35, located approximately 90 miles north of Minneapolis-St. Paul and about 150 miles south of Duluth. The drive from the Twin Cities takes about 1.5 hours through scenic Minnesota countryside. Amtrak's Empire Builder train stops in nearby Sandstone, about 20 miles away, though most visitors arrive by personal vehicle. The closest major airport is Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, making Hinckley a convenient road trip destination from the metro area.

Getting Around

Hinckley is a small town that's easily walkable in the downtown area, though a personal vehicle is recommended for exploring the surrounding attractions and natural areas. The town doesn't have public transportation, but most hotels and the casino offer shuttle services to and from certain locations. Taxi services are limited, so having a car provides the most flexibility for visiting state parks, lakes, and other regional attractions. The casino provides ample free parking for guests and visitors.

Where to Stay

Grand Casino Hinckley Hotel

Downtown Hinckley Area

Grindstone Lake Resorts

St. Croix State Park Camping

Sandstone Area Hotels

Pine City Extended Stay

Food & Dining

Hinckley's dining scene centers around hearty Midwestern fare and casino restaurants. Grand Casino Hinckley features several dining options ranging from casual to upscale, including steakhouses, buffets, and quick-service eateries. Downtown Hinckley offers classic American restaurants, family diners, and local cafes serving comfort food favorites like hotdish, walleye, and wild rice dishes. The area is known for its Friday night fish fries and Sunday brunches. Local establishments often feature regional specialties including fresh-caught fish from nearby lakes and locally-sourced ingredients when in season.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Hinckley is from late spring through early fall (May through October) when weather is most pleasant for outdoor activities and all attractions are fully operational. Summer months offer warm temperatures perfect for lake activities, camping, and hiking, though this is also the busiest season. Fall brings spectacular autumn colors to the surrounding forests, making it ideal for scenic drives and photography. Winter can be harsh with heavy snow, but offers opportunities for winter sports and a cozy casino retreat atmosphere.

Insider Tips

Visit the Hinckley Fire Museum before exploring the town to better understand and appreciate the community's remarkable history and resilience

Take advantage of casino hotel packages that often include dining credits, gaming promotions, and discounted rates, especially during weekdays

Explore the nearby Willard Munger State Trail, a 70-mile paved trail perfect for biking, walking, or rollerblading that connects multiple communities and natural areas

Things to Do in Hinckley