Travel influencer Lizanne Dooner's favorite Minnesota destinations

• I asked her what she's been loving lately — here's what she said.

🤫 Most underrated Minnesota destination

• New Ulm, especially in the fall during Oktoberfest. It's only an hour and a half from the Cities and all German-inspired, from the architecture to the food to the shopping. Schell's Brewery is one of the oldest in America and one of the most beautiful I've ever seen.

🚘 Essential road trip stop

• If I'm going to the North Shore, I have to stop at Tobies Restaurant and Bakery in Hinckley for a coffee and cinnamon roll. The Drive In is also a must for a burger and fries when heading to Taylors Falls.

🏡 Favorite unique stays

• Ham's Haus is one of the coolest places I've ever stayed — it's a shipping container cabin on the North Shore in Lutsen that's gorgeous while still being very private and secluded. I also loved the tiny cabins by Tofte Trails; they're very luxurious and beautiful.

🧠 One travel tip to go:

• If you want a really unique Airbnb or hotel but it's fully booked, follow them on Instagram. A lot of places will post about last-minute cancellations so you can snag a reservation on short notice.