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Must-See Minnesota Events

Some people might tell you that the Midwest has some of the most varying weather in the entire United States. Those of us who live in the Midwest would have to agree wholeheartedly. From the subzero temperatures and multiple feet of snow in the winter to the humidity and thunderstorms of the summer, states like Wisconsin and Minnesota have definitely learned how to use those seasons and the accompanying weather to their advantage.

Minnesota holds a number of different festivals throughout the year, regardless of the season. If you’re planning to be in Minnesota at all during any of the following events, make sure you attend the festivals. You’ll see how the mix of midwestern weather can be more than fun.

For eleven days in late January, the St. Paul Winter Carnival attracts thousands of people willing to brave the cold temperatures for a little fun. Since 1886, the people of Minnesota have been participating in activities like ice and snow sculpting, ice skating, and even a traditional Native American pow wow with one of the local tribes. One of the most popular events at the carnival is the Torchlight Parade, which occurs at night through the streets of St. Paul.

In mid-July, Minneapolis is home to the Aquatennial, which pays homage to the many waterways in Minnesota. Since 1940, events such as beach volleyball, the triathlon, and the ever-popular fireworks display have been taking place throughout the city. Along with a huge block party, one of the most popular events of the Aquatennial is the boat race in which contestants create boats from milk cartons.

The Minnesota State Fair is perhaps the biggest event in the state, taking place for twelve days in August. With standard Midway rides, the Adventure Park for those who like different rides, as well as butter sculptures and Pronto Pups, this is truly an event showcasing everything that makes the state of Minnesota what it is.

Filed Under: Climate, News Tagged With: Minnesota, Torchlight Parade, United States

Enjoying Minnesota’s Wilderness

Not every vacation you take needs to be packed full of activities that, in the end, just end up running you ragged and possibly leaving you more tired than before you left for vacation. Contrary to popular belief, you can still have a relaxing vacation full of activities that you enjoy, and it doesn’t have to be in a big city, another state, or at some exotic beach resort in the Caribbean.

If you want to satisfy the nature lover in yourself or in your family, you can do it and still relax. One of the most beautiful locations in the Midwest is the northeastern corner of Minnesota, right along the border of Canada. This area, consisting of over one million acres of crystal clear lakes and wilderness, is known as the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (or, the BWCA for short). These lands draw over 100 thousand people from every walk of life each year.

The BWCA offers a multitude of outdoor activities and adventures for people of any age. Fishing is one of the most popular activities in the area. With so many lakes and rivers (over 1,000), as well as a multitude of different species of fish, everyone will enjoy the endless opportunities that come along with fishing.

One of the best things that the wilderness provides is numerous lodging options. There are numerous lake-side resorts and places offering your choice of rustic cabins to sleep in. There are also campgrounds where you can park your RV, pitch a tent, or rough it and sleep in a sleeping bag under the stars.

Ely, a smaller town, is only s short distance from the BWCA and offers even more activities. Stop in at the International Wolf Center and learn more about wolves, or walk through an art gallery. If you want to get away from the wilderness for a day, Ely is sure to offer a little something for everybody.

Filed Under: News Tagged With: Minnesota, Wilderness

Visiting the Railroad Museum at Lake Superior

Duluth, Minnesota is known for it’s cold temperatures and fantastic college hockey team, but the city is perhaps most famous for its Railroad Museum, which is located on Michigan Street, just off the shores of Lake Superior. The collections at the museum consist of both steam and diesel engines, as well as street cars and other items. If someone in your family is a fan of old trains, this is the perfect place for him or her.

The first railroad in Minnesota was built in 1862 and ran from the city of St. Paul to St. Anthony, which is now known as Minneapolis. “William Crooks” was the name of the first locomotive in the state, and it was constructed by the Paterson Locomotive Works company. This first engine can be viewed at the museum, as can railcars from companies such as Haskell & Barker.

In 1887, the world’s first snow plow was built by the Leslie Brothers and Cook Locomotive Works and was used by more than one locomotive at a time in order to clear away snowdrifts. This piece of machinery, as well as the McGiffert Log Loader, which was used to place logs onto flatcars, is available for viewing at the Railroad Museum.

In 1890, the Duluth Railway Company introduced the streetcar. These were used to replace the slower horse and buggy carriages. Streetcars ran along wires, which powered them with 600 volts of electricity. They stuck to tracks that ran throughout the towns.

The Railroad Museum in Duluth, Minnesota is full of history in both the numerous displays of ages-old machinery, but also in the explanations and informational displays accompanying them. If you’re heading to Duluth to visit relatives or just for a different kind of vacation, then be sure to stop at the museum and learn about a phenomenal part of Minnesota’s history.

Filed Under: News Tagged With: LakeSuperior, Museum

A Very ” InViking” Minnesota Inn

It’s no secret that the Vikings are an enormous part of Minnesota’s history and that these people still permeate the state’s cultural identity today. Holding steadfastly onto the Viking traditions and ways of life, The Nordic Inn Brew & Bed offers visitors a taste of all things Viking. A little known fact about The Nordic Inn is that the establishment used to be a Methodist church.

Located in Crosby, Minnesota, people come from miles around to sample the popular Scandinavian styles brews that have made the inn such a famous place. Around the inn—especially at the bar—you’ll find plenty of old Viking attire. Why not don some and get in the spirit? If the traditional garb isn’t enough of a taste of the Viking way of life, you’ll also need to trade your wholesome American dollars in for Kroner—the traditional currency of the Viking people.

Founded and manned by Steinnar Elmerson, you’re sure to receive the best treatment possible. He offers Viking tales and jokes of the adult variety, yes, but he also cooks an amazing amount of food, even if you’re eating alone. Signature dishes include meat and potatoes, as well as side dishes and, of course, pie for dessert. Combine this with some of the pale ale that The Nordic Inn is famous for, and you’ll have a meal fit for a (Vi)king.

No two rooms at the inn are the same, making them great conversation starters. There are only five rooms available, the neatest perhaps being the room in which a bed is built directly into a Viking ship.

If you’re looking for an experience that’s vastly different from that of a regular hotel or a normal bed and breakfast, then give The Nordic Inn a try!

Filed Under: News Tagged With: Minnesota

The Minnesota State Fair: Highlights

If you’ve never been to Minnesota and are planning to go, plan your trip around the Minnesota State Fair, which is normally held over a week every August. Drawing in thousands of people each year, this enormous event is one of the best ways to learn about and experience the culture in Minnesota. Some of the most popular items at the fair include butter sculptures, Pronto Pups, which are similar to a corn dog, and the log rolling competition, among other things.

Dubbed “The Great Minnesota Get-Together,” the Minnesota State Fair has been providing unique looks into what makes the state so great since 1854 (which is five whole years before Minnesota even became a state). The fair takes place in Falcon heights, which is right in the middle of Minneapolis and St. Paul, and is the second largest state fair in the United States, second only to the Texas State Fair.

Because of the sheer size of the Minnesota State Fair, it’s nearly impossible to see the entire thing in one day. If you’re having troubles deciding what to see, take a look below for some ideas.

The Princess Kay Butter Sculpture: When the winner of the Minnesota Dairy Princess Program Pageant is chosen, “Princess Kay” is the title she gets, but she also has a 90-pound block of butter sculpted to look just like her. This is one of the most popular fair attractions.
The Space Tower: If you’re one who loves scenery, try taking a ride to the top of this 340-foot tall tower for the best views of St. Paul and the Twin Cities. Don’t forget your camera!
The rides at Adventure Park: If you want the standard list of fair rides, you’ll find them on the Midway (and Kidway for the youngsters), but if you’re in the mood for something a little different, stop at Adventure Park. There you’ll find like the Ejection Seat—a ride where you’re strapped into a seat secured with bungee cords and sends you flying through the air.

Filed Under: Entertainment, News Tagged With: Minnesota, Minnesota State Fair

Dayton Takes the Finish Line in Minnesota Governor’s Race

: Image via Wikipedia

In the recent election runoff for governor in Minnesota, Democrat Mark Dayton and Republican nominee Tom Emmer waited anxiously for the results to come in. A recount had to be administered from votes across the state, and in the final draw Dayton came out ahead of the competition. His lead was so slight in the beginning that officials felt a recount was in order. This meant that 2.1 million votes had to be gone over again. The recently released results from the 87 counties within the state come a month after the election was held. The recount results were not dramatically different from the original election night results, leaving only a slight difference in the 9,000 vote lead that Dayton had over Emmer.

Emmer has served three terms as a member of the state legislature. He gave his concession speech, politely conceding the win for the Democrats and stated that he would not challenge the results further in a court of law. He showed support for Dayton by saying that keeping a governor out of office any longer would not be beneficial to the state as a whole. He recognized that the people of Minnesota have made their final decision and he respects that.This type of situation is nothing new in Minnesota, as a recount had to be done in the 2008 election.

Mark Dayton, at 63 years of age, served a single term in the United States Senate. He chose at that time not to run for reelection. His first attempt in 1998 to run for the governor’s seat was unsuccessful. In the 2010 election, he finally found his niche when he took both the primary and then succeeded in winning the general election. Minnesota can now look to the future as their new governor takes office, hoping that he will be able to work with the government in bringing the economy back up and creating more jobs.

Filed Under: Government, News Tagged With: Democratic Party (United States), Election recount, Mark Dayton, Minnesota, Republican, Tim Pawlenty, Tom Emmer

Enjoying Winter, Minnesota Style

Winter may be cold and covered with snow, but there are numerous events throughout the state to keep you busy. They can help you to find a measure of warm joy in the midst of the winter freeze, from holiday lights to crafts and various Christmas celebrations.

One event you can take part in is the Nordic Christmas Celebration in Minneapolis. During this time, you can learn about the various cultures of Denmark, Sweden, Iceland, Finland and Norway. There is cultural music, at the area museum coupled with dancing. Your family can even go on a guided tour of the facility and listen to a well spun tale. Farmington is home to Christmas in the Village, where you and your family can enjoy a traditional holiday experience. Santa, Victorian style, walks through the village giving treats to the kids and you can listen to holiday tunes sung by a choir in the area church. You can also take part in cooking activities, sewing and get a hot drink and a snack in the drug store.

Those who love holiday light displays will love the Bentleyville Tour of Lights. This runs the period from November 20 through December 26, and is located in the Bay Front Festival Park. Admission to the tour is free of charge. in Faribault, you can enjoy the Shattuck St. Mary’s Campus Christmas Walk. The campus is decorated with lights, and as you stroll along you can enjoy singing by the students. There is also a performance of figure skating skill in the arena and other various demonstrations for visitors to enjoy.

For a different winter experience, bring your family to Wadena and enjoy a sleigh ride. Taken out by horse, the rides are free of charge to everyone. Children will get to meet Santa Claus and receive a surprise. With all of these experiences, you will have a wonderful time enjoying winter, Minnesota style.

Filed Under: Climate, Entertainment, Government, News, Travel Tagged With: Christmas, Minneapolis, Santa Claus

Living Minnesota’s Past at the Minnesota History Center

Minnesota’s history comes alive when you take a walk into the Minnesota History Center, which is located in St. Paul. The center carries a broad array of exhibits that are at the museum on a regular basis along with special ones that come for a short period of time. The exhibits are not just to look at, but are to be interacted with to give you the full experience of each one. It has something for all ages and interests, making for a full day of fun and learning.

Those wanting to get a general helping of the state’s history can check out the “MN 150″ exhibit. Here, you can experience the stories behind those who have had an impact on the state’s history. For example, you can take a seat on a Greyhound bus and then find out about the company’s history when it was first started in Hibbing, Minnesota. You can also be a contestant on a quiz show, seeing how much you really know about the state’s history.

You can even get inside Minnesota’s weather at the “Weather Permitting” exhibit. Here, you can relive the terror of the 1965 tornadoes that went through the state at the display “Get to the Basement!” This portion uses a variety of media to help you feel and understand what went on during this scary event.

Besides exhibits, the center also holds family events and specialized educational programming for school groups. Local living history demonstrations are done in the center, where individuals in clothing from various periods help visitors understand historical events from a different perspective. Through interaction, visitors can learn and integrate a new understanding of the state’s history. There are also numerous lectures and guided tours to enhance your experience as well.

The Minnesota History Center is a truly exceptional experience for anyone stopping by. It makes learning fun, and there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Filed Under: Entertainment, News, Travel Tagged With: History, Minnesota, Minnesota History Center, Museums, Saint Paul Minnesota, St. Paul

Winter Hits Minnesota with a Punch

Minnesota is feeling the punch of old man winter as snow, sleet and freezing rain pound the Twin Cities. As blizzard conditions hit Minneapolis and St. Paul, the Minnesota Department of Transportation has declared that no road travel should be planned here for the time being. Highway 50 and 52 were closed toady, along with County Road 20 located in Dakota County. The weather has reached such levels that the roads are currently undriveable.

The snow coming down is now beginning to drift, creating further hazardous conditions due to strong winds. Those out and about will feel temperatures dipping into the lower single digits to around zero degrees. Though the state is not new to rough winter weather, this storm is planning to put a crimp into many travel plans. When you consider what blizzard conditions are, you have to have two conditions met for over a three hour period. The first characteristic is strong winds that blow over a sustained period of time at a speed at or greater than 35 miles per hour. The second is to have visibility at or below a quarter of a mile because of snow.

A blizzard doesn’t always carry the promise of several feet of snow when it comes through. It can occur even when snow isn’t falling from the sky. When the winds reach the right speed, then they can pick up snow that has already fallen and whip a good storm in no time. That is why Minnesota is experiencing blizzard conditions, and with the low visibility and high winds, many more roads may become impassible with time. Motorists heading out on the road in a storm like this should drive slower, give yourself extra time and carry emergency supplies in your car. These should include a blanket, extra clothing, flashlight, non-perishable food and a first aid kit. This helps you be prepared for the worst winter has to offer.

Filed Under: Entertainment, News, Travel Tagged With: Minneapolis, Minnesota, Minnesota Department of Transportation, National Weather Service, Snow, Winter storm

Preserving Minnesota’s History

Preserving history can be a daunting task, especially when you are doing so in a struggling economy and with little funding. Minnesota is the proud home, though, to a group of dedicated people who have been recognized nationally for their efforts. Throughout the state of Minnesota, various small historical societies give a labor of love to keep the state’s history alive for future generations. They also work to preserve and protect the artifacts and stories behind them that make history come alive for the general public.

For example, when you are traveling in the state, make sure that you stop by the Bartholomew House located in Richfield. This home was first built in 1852, and is a true testament to the pioneer spirit. The historical society that works with the house has taken a more professional focus, carefully documenting the area’s history. They also are being picky here about the artifacts they choose to display and how they are presented. This is what has drawn the attention to their efforts and many others in the state nationwide. For example, many of these societies within the state have won a whopping 10% of grant funding awarded by the American Association for State and Local History.

These societies have also targeted getting the oral history of each particular area by visiting local residents who have lived through it. Their stories are recorded professionally and also documented in writing, which is critical as many of these people pass away on a regular basis. This really shows the dedication that these Minnesota residents have to making a permanent record of the state’s history.

They also bring people on who have training in writing grants and who can promote their efforts to the public. With these efforts, some societies have even doubled their annual budgets, but many others still struggle.

Filed Under: Entertainment, Government, News, Travel Tagged With: Historical society, History, Minnesota