This post will conclude our mini-series highlighting local attractions. We hope you enjoyed reading about the world’s largest Holstein cow, larger-than-life trolls, the beauty of western North Dakota, the adventure of the National Park Junior Ranger Program, and Fargo’s amazing public library!
For my third piece in this mini-series, I decided to highlight a few opportunities for adventures around Minnesota’s Twin Cities. The Twin Cities Metro includes St. Paul and Minneapolis as well as multiple surrounding suburbs and offers countless attractions from prominent sports stadiums and concert venues to a wide range of shopping and dining destinations. While each area around the Cities offers unique opportunities, I wanted to focus on some of the outings we’ve especially enjoyed as a family.
Biking is one of our go-to outdoor activities and while there are no shortages of trails to explore around the Twin Cities, a favorite is the paved Dakota Rail Regional Trail. This trail follows a former railroad line which means it’s relatively flat, offers beautiful views of Lake Minnetonka, and the trees lining it provide much appreciated shade during the hot summer months. Although it can get a little crowded at times, there are stretches of the trail that make it feel like you’re riding in the countryside. Bonus: the Minnetonka Drive In, which is accessible right from the trail, is open seasonally and offers delicious root beer as well as ice cream treats, burgers and fries!
I’m always on the lookout for family-friendly outings and the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory tops the list year-round. It’s small enough to walk the entire zoo in a few hours and the surrounding area offers opportunities for picnics and plenty of space to run around and play. For a beautiful and delightfully peaceful experience, be sure to check out one of the multiple gardens at the Conservatory. We especially enjoy walking these during the cold Minnesota winter months when warmth and green plants are in short supply.
For a downtown Minneapolis outing that offers panoramic views of the Mississippi River, I highly recommend taking a walk across the historic Stone Arch Bridge. Limited tours of the St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam are offered during the summer and provide a fascinating history of that part of the river. Nearby, the Mill City Farmer’s Market is a fun Saturday morning excursion and, while in the area, be sure to check out the Guthrie Theater’s Endless Bridge and amber glass box for some amazing views!
If you have favorite destinations you’d like to highlight from the Twin Cities Metro area, please share in the comments below! Thank you for joining us on this mini-series featuring some of our favorite local attractions.
Wendi is co-author of The Unexpected Ever Afters blog and enjoys sipping extra hot coffee, sharing a love of reading with her kids, and exploring bike trails.
photo credit: personal photos
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