5 Things to do this Holiday Season

By Jason Rhein

The holidays can be very busy with all of the shopping and decorating; however, take some time off and visit a Minnesota attraction! Here are five things going on in the state during the holidays.

1. Macy's Holiday Auditorium - Take a walk through a winter wonderland on the 8th floor of Macy's in downtown Minneapolis!

2. Holiday Flower Show - Take in the sights and smells of the many flowers and plants that we affiliate with the holidays at the Como Park Zoo & Conservatory in St. Paul!

3. Shop at the Mall of America - Of course, if you're in Minnesota, make sure you do some holiday shopping at the Mall of America! There are also many events and shows occurring throughout the season.

4. Skiing and Sledding! - There are many slopes and hills in Minnesota for skiing, sledding, and snow tubing, including Buck Hill, Afton Alps, and the Lutsen Mountains.

5. Walk around the downtown areas! - Whether it's downtown Minneapolis, St. Paul, Duluth, Rochester, or any other Minnesota city, there is always something going on for the holidays. You can also do some holiday shopping or visit Santa!

Photo Credit: John , James Cridland, Teresa Boardman, Jim Moore, twodolla

The Holidazzle

By Jason Rhein

If you are headed to Minneapolis this holiday season, do not miss the annual Target Holidazzle Parade! In its 20th season, the Holidazzle is a parade of lights, music and fun characters that march down Nicollet Mall from 12th Street to 4th Street in downtown Minneapolis.

The parade will take place at 6:30 pm on:

Nov 25, 2011 - Nov 27, 2011
Dec 1, 2011 - Dec 4, 2011
Dec 8, 2011 - Dec 11, 2011
Dec 15, 2011 - Dec 18, 2011

Jason's Ratings:
scale (1 - 10)
Family Fun: 9
Adult Fun: 8
Lodging (area): 10
Dining (area): 10
Shopping: 10
Arts & Culture: 9
Outdoors: 6

Photo credit: mtellin

Minnesota Snowmobile Trails

By Jason Rhein

Want to have some fun in the Minnesota snow this winter? Then grab your snowmobile and head on over to one of the state snowmobiling trails in this video.

Travel back to 1968!

By Jason Rhein

At the Minnesota History Center in St. Paul, MN, you can travel back in time to1968 and learn about the many things that occurred during this pivotal year. Indulge in the music of the year, learn more about the Vietnam War or join the peace movement.

There is a lot to see and do at this exhibit, so make sure you stop in! This exhibit will be open from October 14 through February 20. For more information about the exhibit, hours and admission prices, click here.

Photo Credit: Jazminypera, Aaron Fulkerson

Visit Little Falls, MN

By Jason Rhein

Visit the historic central Minnesota city of Little Falls, home of the famous flyer Charles Lindbergh. Here, you can explore the Charles A. Lindbergh Historic Site and State Park or take a boat ride out on one of Minnesota's beautiful lakes. Little Falls is located approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes north of Minneapolis.

The U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame

By Jason Rhein

Located in the small town of Eveleth, MN (considered the birthplace of hockey) on the northern Iron Range lies the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Museum and the world's largest hockey stick. For more information, watch the following video.

The Minnesota Renaissance Festival

By Jason Rhein

Go back in time to the Medieval era at the annual Minnesota Renaissance Festival! The festival is the largest Renaissance themed event in the United States and welcomes approximately 300,000 visitors every year.

With about 250 artisan booths, 500 entertainers and 12 stages, there is always something to do and see. You can watch some live jousting or indulge in some medieval foods.

The festival is open for two more weekends, September 24 - 25 and September 30 - October 2. Cost is $20.95 for adults (age 13-64), $18.95 for seniors (age 65+), $11.95 for children (age 5-12) and free to children 4 and under. For more information about hours, shows, tickets and location, visit http://www.renaissancefest.com/MRF/.

Photo Credit: Apehanger

Visit the city of Winona, MN

By Jason Rhein

Visit the stained-glass window capital of the world! There is so much to do in this small city located on an island on the Mississippi River in southeastern Minnesota. The city is well-known for its unique arts, history and surrounding bluffs. For more information, watch the video below or visit the Winona tourism website.



Video credit: http://visitwinona.com, Explore Minnesota

Jeffers Petroglyphs

By Jason Rhein

If you have an interest in history and want to learn more about the first Native American settlers, than the Jeffers Petroglyphs Historic Site is a perfect place for you to visit.

Here, you can view many sacred stone carvings created in the ground by the first American Indians in the area. Each carving tells a unique story about the past. There are over 2,000 carvings here that are anywhere from 500 to 7,000 years old.

Tours are offered daily, Memorial Day through Labor Day, and admission is $6 for adults, $5 for students and seniors, $4 for children ages 6-17 and free for children under the age of 5.

Photo Credit: bhs128

Visit the Minnesota State Fair This Weekend!

Great Lakes Aquarium

By Jason Rhein

In a state that is well-known for its lakes, the Great Lakes Aquarium in Duluth, MN likes to display what types of life live in these lakes.

At this unique and exotic aquarium, you can view many of the different species that live in the Great Lakes, Minnesota lakes and other fresh water around the world.

 

 

The Great Lakes Aquarium in Duluth, MN.

Cost of admission is $14.50 for adults, $11.50 for seniors 62 and older, $8.50 for children ages 3 to 17 and free to children under the age of 3.

This is one site you do not want to miss if you are planning a trip to Northern Minnesota!

Photo Credit: Randen Pederson

It's Time for the Minnesota State Fair!

By Jason Rhein

The Minnesota State Fair.

Every year, the Minnesota State Fair, commonly called "The great Minnesota get-together", attracts nearly 1.8 million visitors. It is the 3rd largest state fair in the country and runs Aug. 25 through Sept. 5.

When looking at everything there is to do at the Minnesota State Fair, it can be very overwhelming. That is why I have made the following lists of the things you must check out and the food you must eat at the fair.


The Top 10 Things You Must See

10. The 4-H and Education Building - Check out all of the crafts, foods and other items made by members of the 4-H clubs around the state of Minnesota

9. The Bandshell - Stop by to watch some great and free entertainment, including music acts, comedians and the State Fair Amateur Talent Contest.

8. The Dairy Building - Learn about Minnesota's dairy farms, look at Miss Minnesota's butter head and enjoy a delectable ice cream cone.

7. The Grandstand - Check out a world-famous act at the Grandstand (for the full list of entertainers and ticket prices, read below).

6. Mighty Midway - Want to pump your adrenaline? Get some thrills on one of the many rides at the Mighty Midway amusement area.

5. Ye Old Mill - Take a ride and make a splash on this gentle and classic boat ride.

4. The Animals! - Explore one of the many barns, exhibits and the Coliseum to take a look at the many animals that come from around the state of Minnesota.

3. The Food Building - Of course, you have to try some of the unique and delicious foods at any fair you visit.

2. The Agriculture & Horiculture Building - Look at everything that is grown in the state of Minnesota and even check out the state's largest vegetables!

1. The SkyGlider/Sky Ride - It's a true classic. Take a glide across the top of the fairgrounds and check out the fair's skyline.

The Skyride at the Minnesota State Fair.

The Top 10 Fair Foods You Must Try

10. Deep-Fried Pickles

9. All-you-can-drink Milk

8. Grilled Corn-on-the-Cob

7. Fresh-Cut Fries

6. Dairy Building Ice Cream

5. Frozen Apple Cider

4. Tom Thumb Mini Donuts

3. Pronto Pup

2. Cheese Curds

1. Sweet Martha's Cookies

Sweet Martha's Cookies stand at the Minnesota State Fair.

The Grandstand

If you want to see a concert while at the fair, be sure to check out an act at the Grandstand. You can purchase tickers now. Below are the dates and prices for all of the performing artists/bands.

• Aug. 25 - Reba McEntire and Ronnie Dunn - 7:30 pm - $45-55
• Aug. 26 - Def Leppard and Heart - 7:30 pm - $41-61
• Aug. 27 - Big Time Rush - 7:30 pm - $35
• Aug. 28 - Carnival of Madness - 5:00 pm - $30-35
• Aug. 29 - Happy Together Tour - 8:00 pm - $18
• Aug. 30 - Steely Dan - 7:30 pm - $45-55
• Aug. 31 - Toby Keith and Eric Church - 7:00 pm - $39-59
• Sept. 1 - Marc Anthony - 8:00 pm - $50-60
• Sept. 2 - "A Prairie Home Companion" - 7:45 pm - $29-42
• Sept. 3 - Weezer - 7:30 pm - $35
• Sept. 4 - Amateur Talent Contest Finals - 8:00 pm - FREE
• Sept. 5 - Maroon 5 and Train - 6:30 pm - $37-47
 

The Ye Old Mill boat ride at the Minnesota State Fair.

Photo Credit: Bala, Mykl Roventine, Steve Moses,

Grand Portage National Monument Rendezvous Days

By Jason Rhein

If you're headed up to Minnesota's North Shore this weekend (Aug. 12-14), make sure you stop by the Grand Portage National Monument  in Grand Portage, MN to join in the Rendezvous Days and Powwow.

During the celebration, you will witness many reenactments from the town's rich history, dating back to 1797. These will include acts from when Native Americans resided in the area to the fur trading times.

Reenacting the fur trading along the shores of Lake Superior.

Take part in music, dancing, crafts, shopping or just indulging in classic Northern Minnesota dishes. The days and times of the activities and reenactments are listed here.

Photo Credit: Mark Edward

Twin Cities Polish Festival

The annual Twin Cities Polish Festival, which takes place this coming weekend (August 13-14), will surely deepen your interest in the Polish culture.

The festival will include folk music and dancing, concerts, free polka lessons and a lot of Polish cuisine.

Also taking place will be the Twin Cities Polish FilmFest in which people can watch many Polish language films and short stories.

The event will be taking place in Minneapolis on the Old Main Street across from Riverplace. (See map below)


View Larger Map


Jason's Ratings:
scale (1 - 10)
Family Fun: 8
Adult Fun: 9
Lodging (area): 9
Dining (area): 9
Shopping: 8
Arts & Culture: 9
Outdoors: 6

Photo Credit: Brendan Lally

Minnesota Bluegrass and Old-Time Music Festival

By Jason Rhein

In the small town of Richmond in central Minnesota, many large Bluegrass music fans from around the world will gather to watch many professional Bluegrass musicians perform during the Minnesota Bluegrass and Old-Time Music Festival, taking place August 11-14.

 

There will be many activities taking place throughout the four-day festival including workshops, demonstrations, dances and a lot more.

Some of the highlighted performers include:

• Sierra Hull & Highway 111
• Dale Ann Bradley
• Monroe Crossing
• Tweener
• Audie Blaylock & Redline

Tickets are still available for advance sale and will also be available at the gate.

Photo Credit: Ian Stannard

Minnesota County Fairs This Weekend

By Jason Rhein

Here is a list of the Minnesota County Fairs taking place this weekend.  Click on a county name to learn more about its fair.

Elbow Lake, Grand Marais, MN.

• Benton
• Crow Wing
• Freeborn
• Lyon
• Pipestone
• Clearwater
• Jackson
• Pine
• Pope
• Sibley
• Washington
• Wright
• Chippewa
• Meeker 

Photo Credit: Jason Rhein

Minnesota History

Here is a brief video about Minnesota's history created by the History Channel.

Quick Minnesota Facts

• 2010 Population: 5,303,925
• State Capital: St. Paul
• Largest City: Minneapolis
• State Bird: Loon
• State Nicknames: Gopher State, North Star State, "Land of 10,000 Lakes"
• Current Governor: Mark Dayton   

Video Credit: GreedoUT, The History Channel

Visit a Minnesota County Fair!

By Jason Rhein

As the summer rolls on, make sure you stop by a County Fair  while visiting Minnesota. At a County Fair, you can indulge in some great food, look at some farm animals, ride amusement rides or watch an entertaining show. Here is a list of all of the County Fairs taking place through the end of this month. Click on any one of the fair links to take a glance at what each has to offer.

A County Fair.

• Olmsted
• Anoka
• Becker
• Wadena
• Marshall
• Scott
• St. Louis
• Stearns
• Blue Earth
• Todd
• Yellow Medicine

Jason's Ratings:
scale (1 - 10)
Family Fun: 10
Adult Fun: 10
Lodging (area): varies
Dining (area): varies
Shopping: varies
Arts & Culture: 6
Outdoors: 8

Photo Credit: Snapper

5 Places You Must Visit in Minnesota

By Jason Rhein

With so much to do in the great state of Minnesota, it’s sometimes hard to narrow down your options. However, according to Keegan Leddy, a life-long Minnesota resident and expert Minnesota traveler, there are five places that you must visit when traveling to the land of 10,000 travels. 

The Mall of America in Bloomington, MN.

The Mall of America

When asked about Minnesota, the first place that often comes to one’s mind is the Mall of America (MOA).  MOA is the largest mall in the United States and attracts 40 million visitors annually. With 520 stores, 2 food courts, entertainment options, an amusement park (Nickelodeon Universe) and many restaurants, you can’t go wrong here. It is located in Bloomington, just 10 minutes south of downtown Minneapolis and right next to the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.

Minnesota's North Shore at Cascade State Park.

The North Shore

The North Shore consists of the Lake Superior shoreline between the city of Duluth and the Canadian border. The area is the largest tourist destination in the state of Minnesota. “When traveling to the North Shore of Minnesota, you must first stop in Duluth and visit all of the historic sites and Canal Park,” said Leddy. “After that, head north on the North Shore Scenic Drive to the towns of Two Harbors and Grand Marais for some great entertainment and astonishing views of the lake and surrounding hills.” While on the North Shore, stop by one of Minnesota's State Parks.

The Minnesota History Center in St. Paul, MN.

The Minnesota History Center

Located near the Minnesota State Capitol building just west of downtown St. Paul, the Minnesota History Center is a great place to brush up on your Minnesota knowledge. The Center displays many collections of artifacts from Minnesota’s past. You may also check out one of the many shows occurring during the day or dine at the world class Café Minnesota. For more information on the location, schedules, and events of the Minnesota History Center, visit their website.

The skyline of Minneapolis, MN.

Downtown Minneapolis

There is an endless amount of things to do in Minnesota’s largest city, Minneapolis. Therefore, just head downtown and take a walk around. There are many shops, restaurants, attractions and entertainment options to explore. During the day, check out the Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis Sculpture Garden and Mill City Museum. When the sun goes down, dine at one of Minneapolis’ excellent restaurants or have some fun in the Minneapolis nightlife. No matter what time of day, there is always something to do in the city.

Crossing the Mississippi River at Lake Itasca State Park.

Lake Itasca State Park

Take a trip into the north woods to walk across the starting point of the Mississippi River on Lake Itasca. Located about 20 minutes southwest of Bemidji and 5 hours northwest of the Twin Cities, Lake Itasca State Park is a beautiful place to relax or take a hike. Once you enter the state park, you can go to the lake and cross the beginning of the Mississippi River on stepping stones.

Next time you are planning a visit to the land of 10,000 travels, consider visiting these five places.

Photo Credit: Jason Rhein, US Census, Aine D, Cliff, moleofproduction, Karen Rustad

Travel Tips

 

By Jason Rhein

Need some help planning your vacation? Watch this video and learn about the best ways to start your travel planning.

Thanks to Ahmad Hamaden of AAA Travel - Chicago for being a part of this video.

Minnesota Government Opens its Doors



Minnesota Govenor Mark Dayton signs the new budget deal.

By Jason Rhein

After the 20 day Minnesota government shutdown, the longest shutdown in Minnesota history, all government services have reopened and are functioning normally.

This is great news for those planning a vacation to Minnesota, as all Minnesota State Parks and rest areas will be reopening as well.

Most of the parks and rest areas are expected to be fully functioning by this Saturday. If you would like to see more information about the parks, visit the Minnesota DNR website. 

Photo Credit: Jim Mone, AP Images

Explore the Science Museum of Minnesota

By Jason Rhein

The Science Museum of Minnesota in St. Paul.

There is always something new and exciting going at the Science Museum of Minnesota. The museum is filled with many activities and exhibits for everyone in the family. A must see is the Omnitheater, a surround screen that makes you feel as if you are present in the movie.

Currently at the Science Museum, you can gaze at the ancient treasures from King Tut's tomb in the new Tut exhibit and learn all about how archaeologists discover pharohs' tombs at the Omnitheater.

While visiting the museum, you can dine at a cafe or go mini-golfing on the Science Museum's own golf course.

The Science Museum of Minnesota is open everyday from 9:30 am to 9:30 pm. The Tut exhibit runs everyday through September 5, 2011. The museum is located on Kellogg Blvd. in downtown St. Paul.

Jason's Ratings:
scale (1 - 10)
Family Fun: 10
Adult Fun: 8
Lodging (area): 9
Dining (area): 8
Shopping: 8
Arts & Culture: 9
Outdoors: 4

Photo Credit: Richie Diesterheft

Prepare for the Minnesota Weather!

By Jason Rhein

From -10⁰ to 100⁰, the temperature in Minnesota can change in a heartbeat. The state has bitter cold winters and blazing hot summers. In Minnesota, it is possible to see snowflakes one day and a tornado the next. This is why you should always be prepared for the weather when you travel. Here are some simple tips to be prepared.

• Bring sweatshirts and light coats in summer, thicker coats in late fall, winter and early spring
• Bring sunscreen and sunglasses
• Bring an umbrella
• If camping, bring a weather radio
• Pay attention to the weather and rain and plan you events accordingly
• Do not travel in dangerous conditions
• Take note that northern Minnesota is often cooler that southern Minnesota

 To check the current weather in Minnesota, visit Weather Central.

Photo Credit: Brian Gurrola, Jow Shlabotnik

Paul Bunyan & Babe the Blue Ox

By Jason Rhein

Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox in Bemidji, MN.

 From the tall tale to giant statues, Paul Bunyan and his large ox Babe now stand for tourists in the small northern Minnesota city of Bemidji. Here, visitors can get up close to the 18-foot-tall Bunyan and pose for a picture with the 14-foot-wide Babe.

The statues and a gift shop are located on US Highway 197 (Paul Bunyan Drive) in downtown Bemidji.




Jason's Ratings:
scale (1 - 10)
Family Fun: 7
Adult Fun: 7
Lodging (area): 6
Dining (area): 5
Shopping: 4
Arts & Culture: 5
Outdoors: 10


Photo Credit: Dwayne

Must See Minneapolis

By Jason Rhein

Here is a slide show of 10 places you must see near downtown Minneapolis, the largest city in Minnesota.

Photo Credit: Jason Rhein, Jim Mone, bhs128, Craig Lassig, Fibonacci Blue, Jane Darc, Mulad, August Schwerdfeger

Valleyfair!

The Renegade roller coaster at Valleyfair.

By Jason Rhein

As the largest amusement park in the upper Midwest region of the US, Valleyfair is committed to giving their guests the best experience possible. Their slogan, "The Fun and Only", states just that.

With a total of 75 rides (8 of those being roller coasters) and plenty of entertainment, food and games, there is always something for everyone in the family to do.

Valleyfair's newest addition to the park, Planet Snoopy, features all new rides and attractions. Families can even interact with the characters from the Peanuts series through live shows and character breakfasts on Saturdays.

Valleyfair is located in Shakopee, MN, just 15 minutes southwest of Minneapolis in the Minnesota River Valley.

For park schedules, event information, ticket prices, and more information about the park, visit valleyfair.com.

Jason's Ratings:
scale (1 - 10)
Family Fun: 10
Adult Fun: 7
Lodging (area): 8
Dining (area): 6
Shopping: 6
Arts & Culture: 5
Outdoors: 7

Photo Credit: Martin Lewison

Minnesota Government Shutdown Update

By Jason Rhein

The Minnesota State Capitol, currently closed.

On Thursday morning, Governor Dayton announced to the public that he had reached a tentative agreement over a budget deal with state legislatures and senators.

Dayton expressed that he felt the pressure from many government officials and Minnesota citizens to work out a deal, no matter what it was.

The government plans to open its doors sometime next week, which would also result in the reopening of all state parks and rest areas.

Photo Credit: AP Photo/Jim Mone

Take Me Out to the Ball Game!

By Jason Rhein

Target Field, home of the Minnesota Twins.

Do you want to go see a major league or minor league baseball game? Minnesota has got you covered!

The Minnesota Twins, the state's major league team, play at the newly built Target Field, located in downtown Minneapolis. To check the schedule and ticket prices, visit the Minnesota Twins website.







Midway Stadium, home of the St. Paul Saints.


If you just want to check out a minor league game, visit Midway Stadium in St. Paul where the St. Paul Saints play.  To check the schedule and ticket prices, visit the St. Paul Saints website.

Jason's Ratings:
scale (1 - 10)
Family Fun: 9
Adult Fun: 8
Lodging (area): 9
Dining (area): 8
Shopping: 9
Arts & Culture: 5
Outdoors: 7



Photo Credit: Craig Lassig, Michael Hicks

10 Must See Minnesota Festivals

By Jason Rhein

Although Minnesota is home to many festivals and events year round, there are 10 festivals that you might want to visit while taking a trip to Minnesota. Here is a slide show of these 10 festivals.

Photo Credit: Jason Rhein, Kendrick Erickson, mtellin, Nancy Sims, Randen Pederson, Bala, Andrea_44, MPD01605, Allison Hare, Joe Bielawa

Winona Legacy Destination Weekend

By Jason Rhein

Winona, located beneath the bluffs on the Mississippi River in southeast Minnesota, will be celebrating their arts, historic and outdoor heritage with Winona Legacy Destination Weekend, July 15 - 17.

Winona, MN aerial view

During the weekend, many events will be occurring throughout the city, including:

• Opening of NEW exhibits at Winona County History Center
• FREE music and shows at History Center
• The Great River Shakespeare Festival
• FREE admission to the historic Pickwick Mill
• The Frozen River Film Festival
• FREE water craft rentals at Lake Park
• FREE family activities at Minnesota Marine Art Museum

For more details on times and locations of the events, visit the Winona Tourism or Explore Minnesota websites.

Jason's Ratings:
scale (1 - 10)
Family Fun: 9
Adult Fun:7
Lodging: 7
Dining: 7
Shopping: 7
Arts & Culture:10
Outdoors: 9

Photo Credit: Tammy

Madison, MN Will Celebrate 125 years

By Jason Rhein

125th Anniversary

As the Lutefisk capital of the US, Madison is a small town located in western Minnesota near the South Dakota border. Madison will be celebrating its 125th anniversary from July 15-17. As part of the celebration, all graduating classes of the Lac qui Parle Valley High School will have a class reunion. Many businesses and organizations in the town will host events. For full celebration details, check out the Madison Chamber of Commerce's Celebration Agenda.

Head On Up to Grand Marais!

By Jason Rhein

Right when you enter the small town on the shores of Lake Superior, you see a large welcoming sign. As you drive into town, you see many unique shops, restaurants, and bed and breakfasts. As you get closer to the lake, you see a beautiful lakefront with parks and festivities. This is the unique town of Grand Marais, MN.



The Grand Marais Lighthouse at Artists Point



With a population of only 1,400, Grand Marais is one of the main tourist hubs on the Minnesota's north shore. It is located only a half hour south of the Canada and United States border.

Year round the city hosts festivals including the famous North Shore Dragon Boat Festival, the Fisherman's Picnic, and many more.

Whether you're interested in hiking, fishing, shopping or just relaxing, Grand Marais has something for you!


Recreation

On your visit to Grand Marais, one place you must visit is Artists' Point park. The park is located on a peninsula near downtown. Here, artists can create sculptures out of rocks and leave them on display. The peninsula also has many scenic trails and places to relax and enjoy the view.

If you are interested in bringing a boat to the Grand Marais area, a great place to go is the Grand Marais Marina & Harbor. 

Dining

When you get hungry, head downtown! Make sure you check out Sven & Ole's Pizza. Their world famous pizza recipes will be just what you are looking for. Also, the Blue Water Cafe has great options for everyone in the family.

Arts & Culture

Interested in the arts? Check out one of Grand Marais' many art galleries. They display many arts and crafts unique to the north woods. Also, check out the date and times for the Grand Marais Arts Festival.

The Grand Marais Area

Some great places to visit located in the Grand Marais area are:

• Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA)
• Temperance River State Park
• Cascade River State Park
• Judge C.R. Magney State Park
• Minnesota Iron Range
• Grand Portage Lodge & Casino

Want to spend the night? With the many lodging options in the area, you can stay in anything from a luxurious resort to a lakeside bed and breakfast. There are also many campgrounds in the area.

Downtown Grand Marais by Lake Superior

For more information on what Grand Marais has to offer, visit the Grand Marais tourism site.

Jason's Ratings:
scale (1 - 10)
Family Fun: 9
Adult Fun: 6
Lodging: 9
Dining: 8
Shopping: 6
Arts & Culture: 6
Outdoors: 10

Photo Credit: Jason Rhein, Andy Tinkham

Put your Minnesota State Park Visits on Hold!

Cascade River State Park

By Jason Rhein




If you are planning on visiting one of Minnesota's state parks this July, stop. Unfortunately, all of the Minnesota State Parks are closed at this time due to the state government shutdown.

The state government of Minnesota shut down on July 1 after state legislatures and Governor Mark Dayton did not reach a budget deal before the set deadline. This resulted in the temporary closing of all Minnesota government operations, including state parks, gambling establishments and rest areas.

As soon as government officials reach a budget agreement, all government-ran operations will resume with normal functioning and State Parks will reopen.

Many protesters stand outside the State Capitol building daily, asking for funding to reopen state parks immediately. However, many government officials have stated that they see no resolution in sight.

Still want to explore the outdoors in Minnesota? No problem! One option is visiting a park operated by the Three Rivers Park District, located in the Twin Cities metro area. You can also travel up the north shore of Lake Superior and do some hiking on many scenic paths. There are many other options which I will be posting about soon.

Look for more updates in the future about the Minnesota government shutdown and State Park operations.

Photo Credit: Jason Rhein

Get To Know Minnesota!

As one of the most beautiful and intriguing states in the United States of America, Minnesota is home to many entertaining attractions, sites, and events. However, Minnesota is often looked at as cold and boring with nothing to do. This is exactly what I intend to prove wrong through this blog. Everyday, I will post about fun and new things to do in Minnesota. To keep up to date on the blog, be sure to like The Land of 10,000 Travels on Facebook. Thanks and enjoy!