Attractions and Places To See around Northfield - Top 20

Northfield is known for its scenic waterfalls. You can visit Brandywine Falls, a 60-foot-tall waterfall within Cuyahoga Valley National Park, where boardwalks allow you to get close to the mist. Another beautiful spot is Blue Hen Falls, a 15-foot waterfall surrounded by forest, offering a tranquil place to rest.

Northfield has a rich history. The Northfield Historical Society, located in the original First National Bank of Northfield, preserves the site of the infamous 1876 James-Younger Gang attempted bank robbery. You can also explore Bridge Square, the town's central founding point, and the beautifully restored 1888 Northfield Train Depot. The Historic Downtown Northfield also features many century-old brick storefronts.

Yes, Northfield offers extensive trail networks. The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail is a popular choice, tracing a historic path and offering sections suitable for hiking. You can also access the Towpath, Valley, and Buckeye trails from Boston Trailhead. For more options, explore easy hikes around Northfield by visiting our guide: Easy hikes around Northfield.

Beyond hiking, you can enjoy cycling and mountain biking. The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail is excellent for cycling. For dedicated routes, check out our guides for Road Cycling Routes around Northfield and MTB Trails around Northfield. The Cannon River also provides opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.

Many attractions around Northfield are suitable for families. Waterfalls like Brandywine Falls and Blue Hen Falls are great for scenic outings. The Boston Trailhead provides access to family-friendly trails. Additionally, seasonal berry picking at Lorence's Berry Farm or Little Hill Berry Farm, and the Red Barn Farm with its animals and wood-fired pizza, are popular family activities.

For a peaceful outdoor experience, visit the Carleton College Cowling Arboretum, known as "The Arb," which offers 880 acres of trails through diverse habitats. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, a short drive away, features lush woodlands, wildflowers, and a waterfall. Caron Park also provides a quieter hiking experience with wildflowers and a bridge.

Northfield is home to two prestigious colleges, Carleton College and St. Olaf College, both with beautiful campuses and historic buildings. The Northfield Arts Guild is one of Minnesota's oldest art non-profits, offering theater, music, and art exhibits. The Norwegian-American Historical Association, located on the St. Olaf campus, is also a significant cultural resource.

Historic Downtown Northfield offers a variety of unique shops, local restaurants, and coffee houses. You can also find local breweries like Imminent Brewing and Tanzenwald Brewing Company. The Riverwalk Market Fair, held on Saturday mornings from May through October, features local artisans, music, and food vendors.

Northfield attractions can be enjoyed throughout the year, but spring and fall offer particularly pleasant weather for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. Spring brings wildflowers to areas like Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, while fall showcases vibrant foliage. The Riverwalk Market Fair runs from May through October, and berry farms are seasonal.

Beyond the waterfalls, you can find unique views along the Cannon River, especially from the Riverwalk. The Under the Bridge along Ohio & Erie Canal Townpath Trail offers a distinctive perspective of the underside of Interstate 80 and the Cuyahoga River. Goodsell Observatory on the St. Olaf College campus is also a point of interest for those interested in astronomy.

While not as widely known as the larger parks, Caron Park is a wooded area with wildflowers, a waterfall, and a bridge, offering a tranquil hiking experience. The Joryo-En Japanese Garden on the Carleton College campus also provides a serene and beautiful escape.