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!