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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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Fun in the city |
1870 Rice St Minneapolis, MN 55113 United States +1 651 487 1025 |
Located just four miles north of the State Capital grounds, this St. Paul attraction offers fun for everyone. Drive like a racer on the pro and go-cart track or cool off with a splash in the bumper boats. Practice your swing in the batting cages, putt around the mini golf course or play your favorite video game in the arcade. Refreshment stands on premises. No fee to enter the park. Tickets for each fun adventure are purchased separately, approximately $3.50 per ride. Special rates for groups and birthday parties are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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And DOWN the STRETCH they COME! |
1100 Canterbury Road Minneapolis, MN 55379 United States +1 952 445 7223 / +1 800 340 6361 http://www.canterburypark.com/ cbypark@canterburypark.com |
This attractive, well-equipped facility is home to the excitement of horse racing in Minnesota, just 30 minutes southwest of downtown Minneapolis. Horses hit the track from the middle of May through the Labor Day weekend and the track's tele-racing center is open year-round. During the live racing season, the first post is at 6:30p on Thursday through Saturday and at 1:30p on Sundays and Holidays. Check the Web site for any special post times. Seating is in the indoor or outdoor bleachers (included in admission). There is also a covered picnic area. Clubhouse seating and amenities are available for an additional charge. Betting seminars are offered for the novice. Simulcast racing is offered in the off-season. There is also a 24-hour Card Club that offers poker. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Five scenic lakes in a row |
42117 West River Road (Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board) Minneapolis, MN 55411 United States +1 612 230 6400 http://www.minneapolisparks.or... |
Known as the City of Lakes, it is befitting that the confines of Minneapolis are home to 22 lakes within the city limits. Regarded as the crown jewel of the Minneapolis Parks System, the Chain of Lakes is comprised of five scenic lakes in a row along the west side of the city: Cedar Lake, Lake of the Isles, Lake Calhoun, Lake Harriet and Lake Nokomis. A series of tree-lined roadways, parks, and beaches, including magnificent Minnehaha Parkway and Creek, interconnect this picturesque area of Minneapolis. Each of the lakes has a distinct personality. They all provide an outlet for bicyclists, rollerbladers, joggers and walkers as they traverse the many miles of paved paths around the lakes. Canoes, sailboats and fishermen share this water wonderland with swimmers, beach volley players and sun worshippers. To protect the delicate shorelines, no powerboats are permitted on city lakes. In the winter, cross-country skiers, ice fishermen, broomball leagues and ice sailing abound. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Serge Y. |
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362-acre urban refuge |
12615 County Road 9 Minneapolis, MN 55441 United States +1 763 559 8891 http://www.hennepinparks.com/o... |
Commonly called French Park, this well-maintained member of the Hennepin Park System is located on the north end of Medicine Lake. A 362-acre urban refuge used primarily for recreational activities, it also has beautiful natural features. A long winding inlet of the 900-acre lake bisects the park. Beaver, muskrat, mink and turtle live here, while great egret, black crowned night heron, belted kingfisher, geese, ducks and spotted sandpiper nest or feed in the area. White-tailed deer, red fox, woodchuck, cottontail rabbit, great horned owl and red tailed hawk frequent the area. Cross-country ski trails are mowed for hikers in the off-season. There is a sandy swimming beach with restrooms, changing rooms and a snack bar. There are volleyball courts, a public boat launch and a picnic area with tables and grills. Park visitors can rent bicycles, rowboats, canoes, paddle boats, fishing poles and in winter, cross-country skis. In winter the frozen lake becomes a skating rink and kids go sledding on the hills. A fee is charged for parking and can be paid on a daily basis, or an annual pass, good at all county parks, may be purchased. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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360 scenic acres |
10360 West River Road Minneapolis, MN 55444 United States +1 763 424 8172 http://www.hennepinparks.com/o... |
This park is 360 scenic acres spanning both sides of the Mississippi River. The showpiece of the park is the 1,000-foot dam built in 1914. The small town of Coon Creek was located in what is now the park and during the construction as many as 1,000 men worked here. Deer, red fox, raccoon, woodchuck, weasel, rabbit and different varieties of squirrels live along the banks, while mink, muskrats, beavers and turtles inhabit the river. The park is a hot spot for fishing, which can be done from shore, boat or platforms on the dam. Walleye, northern, bass and crappie are common.The Visitor Center includes live animal exhibits, an aquarium displaying native fish, an observation deck, information center and restrooms. Three main trails total 4.5 miles and traverse all habitats within the park, groomed for cross-country skiers in the winter.Skis, snowshoes and canoes are available for rent. Picnic tables and grills are plentiful. Campsites are available, including a separate primitive site for canoeists. A handicapped accessible walkway across the dam connects the Hennepin and Anoka County sections of the park and provides an excellent view of the river.A fee is charged for parking and can be paid on a daily basis, or an annual pass, good at all county parks, may be purchased. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Sheryl Meier |
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Park in a dome |
7700 York Ave South Minneapolis, MN 55435 United States +1 952 893 9890 |
Entirely indoors, the park boasts a bubbling brook surrounded by trees and seasonal flowering plants along paved paths perfect for a leisurely stroll. For a more athletic endeavor, Edinborough contains a running track, a small health club with all the up-to-date workout apparatus, swimming pool and a children's playground. There is even an ice skating rink for those who still want to partake in a winter sport, but enjoy climate control. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Misty Garrick Miller |
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Peaceful, 14-acre sanctuary |
1940 Theodore Wirth Parkway (at Glenwood Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55422 United States +1 612 370 4903 |
Marsh marigolds, showy lady slippers and shy violets are just a few of the many wildflowers that bloom in this peaceful, 14-acre sanctuary. Inaugurated in 1907, it is the oldest public wildflower garden in the United States. Visitors are free to wander the picturesque trails in both the shady woodland garden and the sunny prairie garden.A small interpretive building has exhibits and books about nature, including a biography of the garden founder, botanist and conservationist Eloise Butler. Guided tours and special programs, such as full moon hikes and talks on medicinal plants, are offered on weekends. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Joe Martz |
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Thunderous 32-foot torrent of cascading water |
W River Rd & Portland Ave Minneapolis, MN 55414 United States +1 612 627 5433 |
In 1680, a Belgian friar named Father Louis Hennepin discovered a thunderous 32-foot torrent of cascading water that he named St. Anthony Falls. This scenic waterfall was thus responsible for the birth of Minnesota's largest city. Today the falls are well contained by concrete and stone block as well as a series of dams. They can be viewed best from the Stone Arch Bridge or the observation deck of the Upper Lock and Dam. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: John R Meixner |
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Float right!! |
710 Spring Street P.O. Box 276 Minneapolis, WI 54025 United States +1 715 247 3453 / +1 800 826 7096 http://www.floatrite.com/ info@floatrite.com |
The Apple river flows next to the Floatrite Ampitheatre. It's a part of a muti-resort where you can camp, lodge, tube and even attend a mega concert. Big bad rockers, Ozzy Ozborne, Black Sabbath have strummed and drummed here, and stayed afloat! What else? Just keep your head above water, or miss the might of Floatrite! 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 |
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 Photo: Tony Webster |
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Beautiful View for Patio Dining |
305 S Water St Minneapolis, MN 55082 United States +1 651 439 5718 |
One of the best things about this restaurant is the patio, so if you are tempted to sit inside, don't. The food is unremarkable, and the prices are high for what you get. The menu includes all the usual fare: sandwiches, burgers, salads, pasta, steak, ribs, chops and shrimp. But the view is what continues to make this a visitor favorite. Just a few feet away is the beautiful St. Croix River, a national Scenic Waterway. Located in the old Burlington Northern train station, the building is on the National Register of Historic Places. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Good Old Outdoor Fun |
10145 Bush Lake Rd Minneapolis, MN 55438 United States +1 763 694 7687 |
Camping, biking, skiing, canoeing and good old outdoor fun can all be found at the Hyland Lake Park Reserve south of Minneapolis. The Richardson Nature Center contains numerous exhibits and information about this 1,000-acre urban, woodland reserve. The nature trails are dotted with overlooks and observation decks allowing observation of deer, pheasant, ducks, geese and a variety of songbirds. There are 7 miles of hiking trails and 6 miles of paved bike paths. The Hyland Outdoor Recreation Center contains a snack bar, gift shop and restrooms. The center rents bikes, rowboats, canoes and paddleboats in the summer and skis, snowshoes and skates in the winter. The hiking and biking trails are groomed in the winter for cross country skiing and snowshoes. A large picnic area, a small fishing pier and boat launch are situated in the lake area. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: romadden84 |
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Lovely area of flowers and music |
South of Lake Calhoun Minneapolis, MN 55409 United States +1 612 230 6475 http://www.minneapolisparks.or... |
Travel half a mile south of Lake Calhoun on William Berry Parkway and you will find a lake that will make you wish summer were 12 months long. Named for the wife of Colonel Harry Leavenworth, the first commander of Fort Anthony (later named Fort Snelling), Lake Harriet is a lovely area consisting of sandy beaches, rose and rock gardens, a popular band shell and some of the city's most palatial homes. The Lake Harriet Trolley leaves from the lake's northwest curve, and Beards Plaisance, a large sheltered picnic area, occupies the southwest corner. The northwest shore is also home to the Lake Harriet Band Shell and refectory from which the Queen of the Lakes paddlewheel boat departs. The Lake Harriet Rose Garden, also known as Lyndale Park, located on the northeast corner of the lake, boasts some 250 different varieties of roses. This lovely sanctuary is a meticulously cared for and fragrant oasis of blooming flowers adjacent to a tranquil Japanese rock garden. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Lovely urban refuge |
4610 County Road 44 Minneapolis, MN 55364 United States +1 763 694 7754 http://www.threeriversparkdist... |
This 392-acre regional park is a lovely urban refuge with excellent recreational facilities. A large picnic area, located by the lake, offers shelters, tables, grills and an open play area suited for croquet and volleyball games. A large fishing pier and boat launch provides easy access to majestic Lake Minnetonka. Frolic on the beach or take a dip in the chlorinated swimming pond constructed by the lake. Spread a blanket, stick an umbrella in the sand and lay back to soak up the suns golden rays as breezes from one of the state's largest lakes help keep you cool. A small visitor center offers information, meeting rooms for corporate outings by the beach and restrooms. A minimal parking fee is charged or a season pass good at all Hennepin Parks is available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Sailboats and canoes |
52nd Street and Cedar Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55417 United States +1 612 370 4923 http://www.minneapolisparks.or... |
Lake Nokomis is the southernmost of the lakes in the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes. Connected to the other lakes via Minnehaha Creek, this popular scenic lake boasts a busy beach, comfortable picnic area and great urban fishing. Like the other lakes, Nokomis has its share of sailboats and canoes dotting the water. The 2.7 miles of paved paths invite walkers, joggers, bikers and inline skaters to leisurely travel its boundary. This lake seems to be especially popular with the high school crowd, perhaps due to its proximity to many family-populated neighborhoods. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Andy Cosgrove |
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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 |
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 Photo: Third Base Line |
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 Photo: Joseph Charles Eddy |
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Everything Under One Roof |
60 E Broadway Minneapolis, MN 55425 United States +1 952 883 8800 http://www.mallofamerica.com |
If you like to shop, eat, people-watch, ride roller coasters, play with Legos and listen to music, then this is the place for you. From the largest indoor theme park in the country, Knott's Camp Snoopy, (23 rides and attractions and counting) to more than 400 specialty stores, major department stores, Legoland and UnderWater Adventures, there is enough to keep a tourist (or a local!) busy for a week. The nightlife offers America's Original Sports Bar, Gator's, and more, plus 14 screens at the General Cinema. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: James Schnobrich |
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 Lovely garden getaway |
3675 Arboretum Drive Minneapolis, MN 55317 United States +1 952 443 1400 http://www.arboretum.umn.edu/ reservations@arboretum.umn.edu |
This one thousand acre attraction located just west of Minneapolis is a gardener's paradise. It is also the perfect spot for anyone who simply wishes to visit a beautiful and peaceful place. The University of Minnesota, which owns the arboretum, conducts research here and offers a wide variety of educational programs. Several miles of walking paths weave through the gardens, with a lane along side for those who wish to drive. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Step Back in Time |
12364 Chestnut Boulevard Minneapolis, MN 55379 United States +1 952 496 9232 http://renaissancefest.com/MRF... info@renaissancefest.com |
Mingle with costumed lords and ladies, peasants, burghers, musicians, jugglers and artisans, all carrying out their duties in character. This permanent medieval village is open weekends from mid-August through September each year. See skits, comedy troupes, musicians, demonstrations and even take classes in calligraphy. Do not miss the joust! Vendors from all over the area offer crafts and goods of all kinds, many handmade. And the food is definitely not run-of-the-mill. Plenty here for kids, too, from a game arcade (non-electronic) to elephant or pony rides. Admission: USD16.95 adults; USD7.95 kids (12 and under). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Urban wildlife refuge |
3815 American Blvd. E Minneapolis, MN 55425 United States +1 952 854 5900 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/Min... |
Nestled on the southern edge of the Twin Cities is one of the few urban wildlife refuges in the country. It offers visitors a rare chance to see natural habitat without venturing far from the city. The 8,000-acre reserve runs along the banks of the Minnesota River. The visitors center provides spectacular views of the river valley. There are a number of hiking and biking trails, prime bird watching spots overlooking the valley and picnic grounds that crisscross the Refuge. Admission to the visitor center and the reserve is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Nostalgic Train Ride Dining Experience |
601 N Main St Minneapolis, MN 55082 United States +1 651 430 3000 / +1 800 992 6100 http://www.minnesotazephyr.com info@minnesotazephyr.com |
Each ticket for this nostalgic trip includes a five-course dinner, entertainment and the train ride, which takes about three and a half hours. Board at the historic Stillwater Depot. The Grand Dome car offers the best views, but all of the cars are luxurious and restored to perfection. Feel free to tour the train during the run. The run follows the beautiful St. Croix River for a short way, then west through the rolling countryside, and returns along the same track. The daytime trips (noon departure) offer great views, but the evening trips (7:30p, Su 6p) may be the most romantic and dramatic. Attire is semi formal, so look your best and enjoy this elegant setting. The strolling Zephyr Cabaret will serenade you with hits of the 1940s and 1950s in period costume. A gourmet meal is served on white linen-clad tables with fine china service, by candlelight on the evening ride. Entrees are chosen at the time of ticket purchase. Courses include appetizer, a fresh crisp salad, a delicious soup du jour, your choice of three entrees and a delectable dessert to complete your repast. Call well in advance to secure your chosen date and time, especially around the Christmas holiday season. Ticket prices do not include tax, gratuity and beverages. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Jess Ulrich |
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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 |
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 Photo: Faruk Ates |
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 Have A Roaring Time |
13000 Zoo Boulevard Minneapolis, MN 55124 United States +1 952 431 9200 / +1 800 366 7811 http://www.mnzoo.com/ info@mnzoo.org |
Housing more than 2000 animals over an expanse of 500 acres, the Minnesota Zoo is the ideal place to get in touch with nature. The zoo monorail lets you get up-close-and-personal with animals such as Bactrian camels, musk oxen, moose and Siberian tigers. Enjoy the world of birds, visit the dolphin shows and witness shark feedings. You can also explore the Minnesota Trail, Northern Trail, Tropics Trail, Discovery Bay and the new Wells Fargo Family Farm. Otherwise, take in a movie at the Imation Imax Theatre or watch a concert at the Amphitheatre. And if your kids are animal lovers, sign them up for the summer Zoo Camp. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Jason Bradley |
 Photo: Amy Anderson |
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Immigrant settlement of the late 1800s |
2187 East Highway 101 Minneapolis, MN 55379 United States +1 763 694 7784 http://www.murphyslanding.com hmlstaff@ThreeRiversParkDistrict.org |
Nestled on an 88-acre wooded site along the Minnesota River is this living history museum. Costumed guides representing 19th century pioneers provide an interesting glimpse of immigrant life in rural Minnesota. Settlers demonstrate crafts and chat with visitors about daily life in the 19th century. This unique collection of 40 buildings represents the homesteads of the many settlers that forged a life in the Minnesota River Valley between 1840 and 1890. Visitors may tour a fur trading post, two farmsteads, a country schoolhouse, shops and homes, all depicting a typical settlement. Guests may walk through the village on foot or opt for the horse-drawn trolley. Period music and entertainment is presented by the faux-pioneers. The site is decorated for the holidays and special events take place throughout the season. Call for information regarding group rates and special event information. Murphy's Landing is west of Valleyfair, about 40 minutes southwest of downtown Minneapolis. Admission fees: Adults $8, Children $6, Students $6 and Seniors $6. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Discover the culture of Russia through art |
5500 Stevens Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55419 United States +1 612 821 9045 http://www.tmora.org/ |
This museum seeks to introduce Americans to the culture and art of Russia through the works on display, primarily 20th century Realist paintings - towards this end, it is a non-profit organization. The exhibit changes from time to time and you can visit its website to find out about the present display, forthcoming events, and the history of the museum. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Amy Sanders |
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Popular Tourist Destination |
2400 Mystic Lake Blvd Minneapolis, MN 55372 United States +1 952 445 9000 / +1 800 262 7799 http://www.mysticlake.com/ |
Conveniently located a half-hour southwest of downtown, this casino is open around-the-clock and includes more than 100 blackjack tables, 2,800 gaming machines and a bingo hall. There is an attached hotel and top class entertainment. Many national acts grace the stage at Mystic, including rock bands, solo acts, magicians and comedians. With four restaurants offering a variety of cuisine, it is easy to find something to your liking. The all-you-can-eat buffet is a spectacular feast and considered the best east of Las Vegas. Professional, on-site daycare is offered in Playworks, a large indoor playground. Keep in mind, however, that Mystic Lake Casino is alcohol-free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Brooke Zumas |
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Attractive & Urban |
2840 N Shore Drive Minneapolis, MN 55391 United States +1 763 559 6700 http://www.threeriversparkdist... |
The Twin Cities area is blessed with some of the most extensive and attractive urban gardens in the country. This lovely garden on Lake Minnetonka's Crystal Bay in Wayzata, once a private paradise, is now a Hennepin County park. It is actually many gardens in one. There is a collection of more than 1,000 daily daylily cultivars, a grape arbor and an azalea collection, as well as many perennials and annuals. The formal flower gardens are designed and maintained by master gardeners. Like other gardens in the Twin Cities, many weddings take place at this peaceful retreat overlooking scenic Lake Minnetonka. Admission is free and the season runs May through October. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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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Audio and visual history |
3515 Raleigh Ave Minneapolis, MN 55416 United States +1 952 926 8198 http://www.museumofbroadcastin... |
This museum takes you on a modest and slightly eccentric trip back through time to when the wireless was king of mass communication. Founded by amateur radio historian Joseph Pavek, the museum is home to an impressive collection of early radio equipment, crystal sets and other paraphernalia. Devoted to the preservation of audio and visual history, the museum features exhibits ranging from the earliest days of radio to the modern technology of today. Along with its unique collections of broadcasting gadgets, the Pavek Museum boasts one of the largest libraries of television and radio literature under one roof. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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High-powered machines |
One Checkered Flag Blvd Minneapolis, MN 55379 United States +1 952 445 2257 |
The roar of the engine, the smell of gasoline and the occasional crunch of metal are just a few of the sights, sounds and smells experienced at Raceway Park. High-powered machines are maneuvered around the quarter mile track by skilled drivers as their high-energy pit crews keep the cars humming. Located two miles east of Valleyfair Amusement Park with an asphalt track designed for late models, hobby stock cars and figure eight races, many of the area's top drivers are frequently on the race card. Raceway Park has specially modified stock cars that are available for rent. The racetrack is open from May through mid-September. Days and times vary based on the schedule of events. Call the track for race information. Caution: the asphalt track can get very loud; ear protection is recommended. Adult $11; Children (5-12) $5; Age 4 & under free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Lovely oasis of rolling hills |
4125 East Lake Harriet Parkway Minneapolis, MN 55409 United States +1 612 370 4900 http://www.minneapolisparks.or... MSchmidt@minneapolisparks.org |
On the northeast shore of Lake Harriet in Minneapolis, visitors find this beautiful sloping rose garden. This lovely oasis of rolling hills features a carefully tended and sweet-smelling glen of blooming flowers bordered by two capricious fountains. The garden, which opened in 1907, is the second-oldest public rose garden in the country and is a favorite site for weddings. The roses bloom from mid-June to late-September, yet the garden season is extended by the appearance of spring bulbs and various perennials that bloom throughout the spring, summer and fall months. Across from the rose garden is a tranquil Japanese rock garden, restored in recent years after the original had all but disappeared. Adjacent to the rock garden is the Roberts Bird Sanctuary. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Glimpse of the past |
1357 Sibley Mem Hwy Minneapolis, MN 55150 United States +1 651 452 1596 http://www.mnhs.org/places/sit... sibleyhouse@mnhs.org |
Visitors are allowed a glimpse of the prosperous Minnesota fur trading industry by visiting this historic site. Henry Sibley, a regional manager for the American Fur Company and later Minnesota's first governor, built one of two limestone houses on the site in the mid-1830s. Jean Faribault, who had a trading post in the area, built the other limestone house to replace his original log house a couple years later. The buildings offer a fascinating observation of Minnesota pioneer history. Both men played an active role in both the fur trade and the subsequent growth of Minnesota as a territory and state.The tour includes the 1843 cold storage building, complete with furs, trading post items, tools and weapons, furniture and a price list (muskrat pelts were 8 cents in 1843). Members of the Dakota Indian tribe, who occupied the area prior to it being settled by white immigrants, perform special programs including singing and drumming.Sibley Historic Site is closed on Monday and holidays. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Indoor Amusement |
60 East Broadway (Mall of America Center Court) Minneapolis, MN 55425 United States +1 952 883 8600 http://www.campsnoopy.com/ |
The mega mall's largest entertainment attraction is also the biggest indoor theme park in the United States. This seven-acre complex, formerly Camp Snoopy, is loaded with more than two-dozen rides, arcade and carnival games, appealing to kids of all ages. Thrills can be had on the Ripsaw Roller Coaster, Log Chute or the Mighty Axe. A one-of-a-kind spinning roller coaster, the Timberland Twister, is the newest thrill ride. Tamer rides include the Screaming Yellow Eagle and a sky-scraping Ferris wheel. For the younger kids, there is a kiddie roller coaster, carousel, mini trucks and a train ride. Admission: Free, USD24.95 for all-day unlimited ride pass. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Jenna Workman |
 Photo: Everett Maroon |
 Photo: Matthew Olson |
 Photo: Matthew Olson |
 Photo: inseriatim |
 Photo: Everett Maroon |
 Photo: Nav H |
 Photo: Travis Church |
 Photo: John Benson |
 Photo: Toine Bogers |
 Photo: GuitarmanB4U |
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Saltwater and freshwater fish |
120 E Broadway Mall of America Minneapolis, MN 55425 United States +1 952 883 0202 http://www.sharky.tv/ |
This is one of the biggest attractions in the Mall of America. More than 3,000 saltwater and freshwater fish call it home. It is a progression of habitats with a range of species in varying eco systems, ranging from a Minnesota lake to a reef off the coast of Belize. There are more than 60 sharks, 10 southern stingrays, five endangered sea turtles, more than 100 sea horses, 13 moray eels and other uncommon animals like the alligator snapping turtle, giant Pacific octopus and puffer fish. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Lauren Guardia |
 Photo: beth bowman |
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Minnesota's premier amusement park |
One Valleyfair Drive Minneapolis, MN 55379 United States +1 952 445 6500 http://www.valleyfair.com info@valleyfair.com |
This 100-acre park, opened in 1976, features the most thrilling and unusual rides in the area. Each year new attractions are added to the mix, such as the Wild Thing, a 207-foot tall roller coaster reaching speeds of 78 mph, with a 180-foot free fall. The park also has an IMAX theater, water park with numerous water rides, multiple children's areas, arcades, live music, shows and other attractions. The season usually runs from early May through October. Admission: USD33.95 for those 48" or taller USD17.95 for children and those less than 48" tall Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Early 20th century train station |
402 East Lake St Minneapolis, MN 55391 United States +1 952 473 9595 http://www.mtmuseum.org/depots |
For railroad buffs and historians alike, this small structure nestled near the shore of Lake Minnetonka is a must-see. The historical significance of the sturdy, single story Wayzata Depot reaches beyond its quaint and classic architecture. Built in 1906, the wood and stucco English Tudor-styled station ended nearly four decades of dispute between the Wayzata community and James J. Hill's railroads. The conflict began in 1867 when the St. Paul and Pacific Railroad, later known as the Great Northern Railway, laid the first track down the main street of Wayzata. As the resort town grew in popularity and population, the boxcars and loading docks blocked traffic as well as the view of the lake. Hotel guests were also kept awake by the switching of train crews during the night. After Wayzata incorporated in 1883, the town sued and won the right to have the track moved. Hill retaliated by relocating the station and steamboat landing a mile away, thereby putting a damper on the tourist trade so vital to the town. In 1905, reconciliation was reached and Hill consented to rebuild the depot on its former site. Billed as the handsomest of the entire Great Northern system, the new station was completed at a cost of USD20,400. While the depot enjoyed a thriving commuter and resort business during the early decades of the century, it wasn't long before buses and cars began driving passenger train service into decline. The Wayzata station closed in 1971 and the depot was deeded to the city. City offices, including the Wayzata Chamber of Commerce and the Wayzata Historical Society, occupy space in the lakeside landmark, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Tours can be arranged through the Chamber of Commerce. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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