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 Picturesque St. Croix River Valley |
6959 Pellar Ave South Minneapolis, MN 55033 United States +1 651 436 5391 http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/par... |
Afton State Park lies along the bluffs of the picturesque St. Croix River Valley just a short trip southeast of the Twin Cities area. Visitors will find 1,700 acres of near-primitive grasslands and dense forests. In fact, access to much of the swimming and camping area is by hiking only. High vantage points provide stunning views of the river and surrounding areas. Badgers, red fox and deer thrive in this magnificent reserve, while hawks and eagles soar above. The Visitors Center provides interpretive exhibits and necessary information about the park. Fishing is allowed from shore or canoe and the swimming beach is well maintained. There are 5 miles of horseback riding trails, 4 miles of paved trails for biking, 19 miles of well-groomed cross country skiing trails and 20 miles of well-marked hiking trails. If you enjoy downhill skiing or snowboarding, visit the nearby Afton Alps Recreation Area. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fascinating 3-dimensional displays |
10 Church Street Southeast Minneapolis, MN 55414 United States +1 612 624 7083 http://www.bellmuseum.org/ |
Kids and adults alike love the touch-and-see room at this cozy museum located on the University of Minnesota campus. Snakeskins, animal pelts and bones, rocks and fossils can be felt, picked up and examined. In addition, there are fascinating 3-dimensional displays of Minnesota's major habitats as they were more than 150 years ago complete with lifelike animals and plants. More than 100 species of Minnesota birds and animals are shown in their native surroundings. The museum's store has an excellent selection of wildlife and ecology books. Admission: $3 Adults, $2 Seniors, $2 Children ages 3-16 (under age 3 are free). Admission is free on Sundays. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Amy Sanders |
 Photo: Amy Sanders |
 Photo: Benjamin Beresford |
 Trolley for Rent! |
525 Farwell Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55075 United States +1 651 223 5600 http://www.capitalcitytrolleys... info@capitalcitytrolleys.com |
Traveling from one place to another just became more fun. Capital City Trolleys have a set of trolleys that are distinct and different. The main aim is to enhance traveling for all sections, be it communities or corporations. They even have tours of St. Paul and other kinds of group events. The services are modified to suit you, so book now and sit back and enjoy the ride. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Animals in the city |
1225 Estabrook Dr Minneapolis, MN 55103 United States +1 651 487 8200 http://www.comozooconservatory... |
This zoo offers a true old-fashioned family outing. Visitors can still see the old cages on the outside of the Zoodale Gift Shop/Restaurant building. Now the big cats, gorillas, other simians and the hoofed animals all have new homes. The Sparky the Seal Show delights all ages during the summer. And it is all free. Of course, you could buy treats for the seals and yourself, too. The adjacent amusement park provides kiddie rides and cotton candy during the summer. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Malinda Welte  |
 Photo: Keng-Yu Lin |
 Photo: Malinda Welte |
 Photo: John Watne |
 Photo: Kevin D. Hendricks |
 Photo: John Watne |
 Photo: Daniel Flies |
 Photo: Keng-Yu Lin |
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100 ethnic groups celebrate together |
175 W Kellogg Boulevard Minneapolis, MN 55101 United States +1 651 647 0191 http://www.festivalofnations.com/ |
This annual festival celebrates the contributions and culture of more than 100 ethnic groups. Since 1932, the International Institute of Minnesota has sponsored the event that is attended by more than 90,000 people annually. It is one of the largest and longest-running ethnic events in the country and was rated one of the "Top 100 Events in North America" by the American Business Association. You can sample food from more than 60 booths, buy folk art and crafts, watch 85 different dance groups and shop at the international bazaar. See their website for more details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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1820s living history |
101 Snelling Lake Road Minneapolis, MN 55111 United States +1 612 725 2389 / +1 612 725 2724 (Visitors Center) http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/par... |
Originally built in 1819, this impressive collection of buildings of native limestone was designated Minnesota's first National Historic Landmark. For 30 years after it was built, the fort was the hub of the upper Mississippi, providing a gathering place for Native Americans, fur traders and settlers. Today, you can hike, bike, ski, fish, canoe or just take in nature. The park also hosts numerous events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tony Webster |
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19th century farm |
2097 W Larpenteur Ave Minneapolis, MN 55113 United States +1 651 646 8629 http://www.rchs.com/gbbsDak1.htm |
Get a peek at life in the 19th century, when farms like this were common around St. Paul. Costumed interpreters demonstrate what life was like in this time gone by. Owned and operated by the Ramsey County Historical Society, the site includes the Gibbs' fully furnished 1854 farmhouse, two barns, plenty of 19th century farm equipment and fields with crops typical of the period. Also on the site is a period-furnished, one-room schoolhouse where children can register for a day at school in the summer. The farm is open mid-April through mid-November. Call the museum or visit the web site for the events scheduled throughout the season. Admission: $6.75 Adults, $5.75 Seniors, and $4 Children Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Maureen McGinn |
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First permanent settler's dwelling |
4901 Minnehaha Ave South Minneapolis, MN 55417 United States +1 612 722 2220 |
Located in Minnehaha Park, the Stevens House is the first permanent settler's dwelling within the original city of Minneapolis. Considered the birthplace of Minneapolis, history shows that meetings at this house lead to the naming of Minneapolis and the organization of Hennepin County. The Junior League of Minneapolis and the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board have restored it to its original 1849 appearance. Today the house functions as an interpretive museum, with exhibits, a parlor with furnishings from the era and video presentations. Guides dressed in period clothing describe the significance of the dwelling and the Stevens family. Children and adults can experience a number of educational activities centered on the founding of the city of Minneapolis. The museum is open Memorial Day through Labor Day. Group tours by appointment can be arranged during May, September and October. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Pete Sieger |
 Photo: Pete Sieger |
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History beckons! |
66 Saint Albans Minneapolis, MN 55105 United States +1 651 225 1505 |
This mansion illuminates the sophistication of the Gilded Age. You can tour this stunning home that is filled with 1880s furniture; they have some extraordinary collections that include President James A. Garfield memorabilia, Roseville Pottery and classic postcards. Walk down memory lane and take a quick history lesson. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Beauty and tranquility |
4125 East Lake Harriet Parkway Minneapolis, MN 55409 United States +1 612 370 4900 http://www.minneapolisparks.org/ MSchmidt@minneapolisparks.org |
This rock garden is part of the Lyndale Park Gardens, and is a flowery tribute to the bombing of Nagasaki and Hiroshima in the year 1945. Peace stones from the two cities can be found on display here, alongside other ancient formations that have historical significance. On August 6 each year, a ceremony is held to commemorate the tragedy. Spring flowers are in full bloom from April l5 - June l, so you may match your visit accordingly. Ample parking space is available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Third Base Line |
 Photo: Third Base Line |
 Photo: Joseph Charles Eddy |
 Photo: Meagan Jeske |
 Photo: Darcy K. Rue |
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Marjorie McNeely Conservatory at Como Park |
1225 Estabrook Dr St. Paul, MN 55103 United States +1 651 487 8200 www.comozooconservatory.org |
This Victorian beauty has recently been updated and refurbished. The glass-enclosed wings of the building are a horticulturist's dream. Each wing has a different theme with helpful placards naming each plant species. Most rooms have fountains or other water features. With its lush surroundings, this is a favorite spot for wedding photos. Do not miss the Japanese bonsai trees. It is adjacent to the Conservatory. Enjoy live music at Music Under Glass every Thursday. The gift shop has unusual cards and botanical gifts. Admission: USD1 adults, USD.50 children (5-12). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John S |
 Photo: John S |
 Photo: Kate Harrington |
 Photo: Steve / Kenny Landis / Evers |
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Open & Airy Design |
300 Nicollet Mall Minneapolis, MN 55401 United States +1 612 630 6000 http://www.mpls.lib.mn.us/newc... |
An architecture-buff's dream, this library is an all-purpose learning center and inviting haven for Minneapolis residents and visitors alike. Completed in the spring of 2006, the building immediately garnered rave reviews for its innovative use of light and existing surroundings, making it one of the best examples of the city's varied architectural style. The library itself houses the fourth-largest collection of any metropolitan library in the country, as well as large special collections, public art, and educational centers (it even has its own coffee bar!). Be sure to check out the website for updated classes and activities that keep this public complex bustling year-round. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Amanda Kovattana |
 Photo: Kitty DuKane |
 Photo: Mitch Rossow |
 Photo: Aneel Gursahaney |
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Polished design houses trade |
400 South 4th St Minneapolis, MN 55415 United States +1 612 321 7101 http://www.mgex.com/ |
In 1881, the Minneapolis Chamber of Commerce formed an association to help facilitate the buying and selling of wheat, oats and corn. The purpose of this organization was to make sure both parties were arriving at a fair price based on the quality of the product being brought to market. Gaining notoriety and becoming a national force in the growing grain industry, the Chamber of Commerce commissioned the construction of a building in downtown Minneapolis to house the daily activity of the grain business. It was not until 1947 that the building was officially christened the Minneapolis Grain Exchange and commodity trading became a separate entity from the Chamber of Commerce. The building's turn-of-the-century design includes heavy use of stone, brick, marble and ornate wood. The terra cotta ears of corn and stalks of grain on the building's façade are particularly interesting and striking. Tours, including a glimpse of the always-rowdy trading floor. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: jenni ripley |
 Photo: Mamluke |
 Photo: Brian Hayes |
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More than 85,000 Pieces on Display |
2400 Third Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55404 United States +1 612 870 3131 http://www.artsmia.org/ |
Affectionately known as the MIA, this museum is home to an exceptional gallery of Impressionist paintings and an exquisite Asian collection. The museum holds significant works by American and European artists including Picasso, Kandinsky, Matisse and Rodin, though it continues to keep pace with the 21st century: in 2006 it added a 113,000-square-foot expansion wing, designed by post-modernist architect Michael Graves, to the original 1915 marble building. Major touring shows hang each year in the MIA's large Dayton Hudson Gallery. Don't miss the period rooms, especially when they are decked out for Christmas. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dominik Halas |
 Photo: Ted Sherarts |
 Photo: Todd J. Tubutis |
 Photo: Chuck Olsen |
 Photo: Ted Sherarts |
 Photo: George M. Calger |
 Photo: Dominik Halas |
 Photo: George M. Calger |
 Photo: Alicia Truhe |
 Photo: Jessica Lindoerfer |
 Photo: Mary Mueller |
 View the final frontier |
300 Nicollet Mall Minneapolis Public Library Minneapolis, MN 55401 United States +1 612 630 6150 / +1 612 630 6155 (Office) http://www.mplanetarium.org/ |
While seated in one of the many interactive seats of the Space and Science Theater, visitors will be whisked away to the outer limits of the galaxy and the universe. The projected simulation of the night sky is crystal clear and the thousands of twinkling stars will quickly make you forget you are actually in the cozy confines of the downtown branch of the Minneapolis Public Library. With countless photographs and drawings on display, as well as multiple interactive exhibits, the planetarium is an astronomy buff's dream come true. Call or visit the Web site for additional facility information and a list of current exhibits, movies and show times. Ticket prices: Ages 12 & under $3; Ages 13 & over $4.50 All ages admitted for $3 on Thursdays Group Reservations $2.50 (groups of 10 or more) Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Learn To Play |
10 West 7th Street Minneapolis, MN 55102 United States +1 651 225 6000 / +1 651 225 6001 http://www.mcm.org webmaster@mcm.org |
Designed for children four months to 10 years old and their adult chaperones, this museum features four permanent galleries and two others hosting traveling exhibits. Visitors are encouraged to use all of their senses to explore the many things there are to see and do. They can be in the spotlight on the sound stage, crawl through the maze of tunnels in the giant ant hill, create a thunderstorm, operate a huge crane and much more. Activities and performances by singers, dancers, jugglers and storytellers take place daily. This is truly a place where 'learn to play, play to learn' is more than just a phrase. If the sound of children squealing with delight bothers you, be advised not to visit. Admission is $7.95 Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: sharyn morrow |
 Photo: Nash Finch/FirstBook |
 Photo: Mark Estes |
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Panorama of state history |
345 West Kellogg Boulevard at John Ireland Boulevard Minneapolis, MN 55102 United States +1 651 296 6126 / +1 800 657 3773 http://www.mnhs.org/places/his... |
Housing a collection of more than 100,000 objects and 500,000 documents, this is a must-stop for residents and tourists alike. The dramatic setting alone is worth the trip. Inside the History Center, past times are alive and well. 'Minnesota A to Z,' an ingenious depiction of various aspects of Minnesota life over the past 150-plus years, will jog the memories of longtime residents. Kids can climb inside a full-size boxcar and replica of a grain elevator. Changing exhibits use interactive techniques, recordings and videos to make history lessons painless. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: sharyn morrow |
 Photo: Tiffany |
 Photo: sharyn morrow |
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Natural habitat is the emphasis |
13000 Zoo Blvd (at County Road 38) Minneapolis, MN 55124 United States +1 952 432 9000 / +1 800 366 7811 http://www.mnzoo.com/ e.ehmke@state.mn.us |
Spread across about 500 acres, natural habitat is the emphasis in this vast zoo. The animals are here but they often have wide-open spaces in which to roam, so be patient when looking for them. To aid in the spotting of animals, visitors may ride an overhead monorail. Five themed trails lead visitors around. The Minnesota Trail focuses on animals native to the state while the Tropics Trail include encounters with Komodo dragons, leopards and gibbons. The Northern Trail features wolves, moose, musk oxen, Siberian Tigers and wild Asian horses. An IMAX is also onsite. Admission: USD12 adults USD8.25 seniors USD7 children (3-12). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Faruk Ates |
 Photo: Paul Huber |
 Photo: Paul Huber |
 Photo: Justin Teerlinck |
 Photo: Robin Mogendorff |
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Oliver H Kelley Farm |
15788 Kelly Farm Road Elk River, MN 55330 United States +1 763 441 6896 http://www.mnhs.org/kelleyfarm |
Travel back to a time when working the farm was a true family affair and all the work was done by hand. Watch farmhands plow fields with oxen and horses at the Kelley farm or harvest vegetables from the garden. Dressed in clothes from the period, interpreters demonstrate how farming was done in the 1860s in this bit of living Minnesota history. Visitors get a chance to try their hand at some farm chores and then relax on the front porch. Animals on the farm are like those bred in the 1860s to do farm work or supply the family with food. The buildings, clothing and farm tools are true to the period depicted. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Wild birds are nursed back to health |
1920 Fitch Ave (University of Minnesota/Gabbert Raptor Building) Minneapolis, MN 55108 United States +1 612 624 4745 http://www.raptor.cvm.umn.edu/ raptor@umn.edu |
No, you will not find any dinosaurs; the raptors here refer to the winged variety. The Raptor Center is a medical center dedicated to treating, rehabilitating and reintroducing injured birds of prey to the wild. Eagles, hawks, owls and other wild birds are nursed back to health at this world-renowned center that can treat up to 600 birds at a time. Volunteer members of the 'flight crew' help recuperating birds learn to fly again and survive in their natural habitat.Located on the St. Paul campus of the University of Minnesota, the Raptor Center is open to the public free of charge and allows visitors to get a close view of the birds and the medical treatment rendered. There are several resident birds, including a red tailed hawk, osprey, a peregrine falcon, a great horned owl and eagles, all available for viewing at all times. There is lots of free literature available and a very nice gift shop features books, pictures and videos of birds throughout the world. Review © 2007, Wcities |
