Tag Archives: minnesota

Property Searching Tips and Guidelines

If you need to find the perfect home you have envisioned, then you will likely have a fairly good idea of the things you’re looking for. Get your priorities right and focus on making a good plan for your searching efforts. There are a few things you may easily forget while you focus on the bigger picture, so the following tips aim to give you an idea what you can do to make things work out to your advantage.

Setting your priorities

Before you start the search, you will need to make sure you have all things you need to have in your home down on paper, so you can keep track of them during the search. Once you do that, pick the ones you know you will need to have no matter what. Once you start looking you should make sure you keep your priorities tight and with a good list on hand. This will allow you to track things with greater efficiency.

Comparing things

Once you have gone through no less than a dozen homes, you will likely begin to lose track of all the details you may be dealing with. You would do well to keep a chart or checklist of the features you saw in each of the homes you went through for future reference. Once you finish things with the basics, you will need to cover other things such as exterior decorations, natural light, roofs and more. You can use that chart to keep track of the search, so make sure you do so for your future searches if you’re not doing one now.

Home walkthroughs

When you do a tour of a home for your first time, you will likely feel overwhelmed and excited if the place is nice. This will make you less likely to notice any inherent problems the home may have, so keep your eyes open for such even if you’re having fun in the process.

Floor plan and measurements

Make sure you have your furniture well measured and ready to move before you find the right home. You would do well to be ready for this before you start your search just in case, as it will allow you to pack and move fast and without any delays that would set you back financially. Something else you need to do is keep a good floor plan so you can figure out which items will fit well and which will need more work and whether they really need to be moved or not.

About the Author: Heather Roberts is a content writer from London, UK. She lives in Balham, London with her husband and two sons, and loves planning family trips and exploring new places.

Bloomington, MN

Of course you already know that Bloomington, MN is home to the largest indoor shopping center in the country – ahem, Mall of America – but did you know that the city is also a true winter wonderland? With plenty of cold weather activities to keep you entertained through the loooong Minnesota winters, you might even begin wishing that spring would hold off just a little bit longer…then again, maybe not.

Winter Fete is an annual weeklong celebration held at the end of January, which features a bevy of everyone’s favorite frosty activities, including ice skating, sledding, and an International Ski Jumping Competition. Prefer to just wrap yourself in a warm blanket and relax? Then we recommend taking a horse-drawn sleigh ride at the Pond-Dakota Winter History Festival.

Hyland Park Ski and Snowboard Area is one of Minnesota’s premier winter sports destinations. The park includes both designated snowboarding slopes and Nordic ski jumps, the latter of which are maintained by the Minneapolis Ski Club. The Club has produced several U.S. Olympic ski jumpers and it even hosted the 2013 Junior National competition. The Hyland Lake Park Reserve grounds are also occupied by the Richardson Nature Center, and the Hyland Greens Golf and Learning Center is located just down the street.

Normandale Community College’s Japanese Garden is a beautiful oasis located in the heart of Bloomington, open to the public year-round. Although the garden reaches its peak of loveliness and full blooming glory in the spring and summer, it is still absolutely stunning during the winter. A Twin Cities favorite location for weddings and photo sessions, it’s a can’t-miss snow-covered haven!

Who knew gardens were the place to be during the winter? The Bloomington Ice Garden (known affectionately by locals as BIG) holds three skating/hockey rinks, one of which is Olympic-sized. This fact made it a clear choice to act as one of the hosts for the 2016 U.S. Figure Skating Championships. If you’re a fan of ice skating, this will be a must-see, once in a lifetime opportunity!

Speaking of “big,” Bloomington is probably most well-known for its largest travel destination – the Mall of America. If you’re not a fan of outdoor activities, then this is the place for you. You could spend a day (probably a week, in actuality) exploring all that the world-famous shopping center has to offer. With nearly 5 million square feet to cover, remember to bring your comfortable shoes to check out the hundreds of stores, vendors, and restaurants. If you visit anytime from Black Friday through New Year’s, make sure you take the time to listen to some carols and other festive jingles, during the Holiday Music Festival. It’s the perfect place to get in the holiday spirit and tick off all the items on your holiday shopping list!

Before the MOA opened in 1992, the land was the site of Metropolitan Stadium, home to all of Minnesota’s major sports teams until the Metrodome and Target Field were built in the 1980s. Twenty-two years later, the Mall of America is now home to a different form of recreation: shopping ’til you drop. If whipping out your credit card in one of the 500+ stores sounds less than ideal, the mall is also home to the SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium, Nickelodeon Universe – at seven acres and with more than thirty rides it’s the country’s largest indoor amusement park – and the nearby Water Park of America, the ninth largest indoor water park in the country.

Still suffering from Black Friday shopping fatigue? (Happy Cyber Monday, by the way!) Skip the Mall and show out-of-town visitors the more cultured side of town by bringing them to the Bloomington Historical Museum, the Bloomington Theater and Art Center, Northwest Airlines History Centre, or The Works museum – a favorite for the kiddos.

Winter is not the only time that Bloomington really shines; there are tons of things to do for warm-weather lovers, throughout the spring and summer. The city offers more than eight thousand acres of parks and open space, including the Pond-Dakota Mission Park and Gideon Pond House. Located on the southeastern edge of the city, the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge caters to nature lovers, offering fishing, hunting, birdwatching and more recreational activities. This upcoming July, the city will host the 10th Annual Bloomington CVB Foundation Golf Tournament, which draws more than 150 yearly participants. Additionally, the Dwan Golf Club is one of the most popular courses in Minnesota and it’s home to the new FootGolf course as well. Also a summertime favorite among locals and visitors alike is the Bloomington Family Aquatic Center, open mid-June through Labor Day. Lastly, across town is Bush Lake Beach, one of the state’s most popular beaches, with more than 100,000 annual visitors.

One of the largest suburbs in the Twin Cities metro area, Bloomington is fully accessible from both Minneapolis and St. Paul via large highways and public transportation. Light rail’s Blue Line brings passengers directly to the Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport and Mall of America stations, so you never even need to set foot outside during the most frigid months of the year.

Because of its proximity to both of the Twin Cities, many companies chose Bloomington to house their headquarters, including Ceridian, Donaldson Company, HealthPartners, Holiday Stationstores, Thermo King, and Toro. The Mall of America itself employees more than 11,000 locals, and 13,000 during the peak of holiday season. Residents of Bloomington also love giving back to their community, with one of the largest volunteer fire departments in the country. The city also holds multiple annual charity events, including the Thanksgiving Walk to End Hunger at the Mall of America and February’s upcoming Charity Wedding Gown Sale & Bridal Expo.

Boasting award-winning schools and lots of local amenities, Bloomington attracts families with small children and adolescents, while also providing enough recreational opportunities for young, active couples. With a variety of single-family homes, small apartment complexes, and gated communities, the city has a median home value of around $200,000 which is higher than Minnesota’s average. Bloomington truly has something to offer everyone!

Neighborhood Resources

Bloomington Schools	Faith Communities
ABC International Montessori Academy	Bloomington Covenant Church
Beacon Preparatory School	Bread of Life Church
Bethany Academy	Calvary United Pentecostal Church
Bloomington Lutheran School	Cedar Valley Church
Bloomington Public Schools	Crosspoint Church
Life Academy	Divine Unity Church
Nativity of Mary School	Emmaus Free Lutheran Church
Ramalynn Montessori Academy	Evergreen Church
Seven Hills Classical Academy	Eden Baptist Church
Public Parks	Family Fest Ministries
Bloomington Family Aquatic Center	Grace Lutheran Church
Bloomington Ice Garden	Hillside Church
Bush Lake Beach	Jesus is Lord Church
Dwan Golf Club	Muslim Community Center
Hyland Greens Golf and Learning Center	Normandale Baptist Church
Off-Leash Recreation Area for Dogs	Normandale Hylands United Methodist Church
Pond-Dakota Mission Park and Gideon Pond House	Oak Grove Presbyterian Church
Smith Park	Oxboro Evangelical Free Church
Valley View Skate Park	Redemption Lutheran Church
Local Restaurants	Southcross Community Church
5210 Restaurant and Onyx Bar	St. Bonaventure Church
Blue Point Restaurant	Riverside Reformed Church
Bubba Gump	St. Edwards Catholic Church
Ciao Bella	The Gate Church
Chick-Fil-A	Unity South Church
Crave	Others
Dick’s Last Resort	Hyland Ski & Snowboard Area
Johnny Rockets	Ikea
Lucky’s 13 Pub	Mall of America
Osaka	REI
Parma 8200
Rainforest Cafe
RedRossa Italian Grille

Twin Cities Halloween Haunted House Guide 2014

Here’s our rundown of the premier Twin Cities haunted attractions: The Soap Factory Haunted Basement, Fright Farm, The Butcher Shop House of Gore and much, much more. Expect the unexpected. Keep watching, and find what terrors await you in the dark.. Boo!

So here are our top picks (alphabetical in order):

). Fright Farm Rochester Horror – 1195 West Circle Drive SW, Rochester, MN 55902

Overview: “Come visit Southern Minnesota's most horrifying haunted attraction located at the historical George Stopple farmstead at the History Center of Olmsted County. From the street you will already wish you didn't come. It is truly designed to frighten and amuse you. Guided tours will include a look at the original farm house, barn, smokehouse, and caves…”

Cost: $13 at the door

Dates: Oct 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 31 & Nov

Time: 7 p.m. – 11p.m.

). Haunting Experience On Highway 61, 10900 E. Point Douglas Rd., Cottage Grove, MN 55016

Overview: “The Haunting Experience on Highway 61 opens up for its 28th consecutive year. There’s a reason we’ve been around this long. People love coming to see what we are up to each year with our Haunted Hayride, Haunted House, and more. This Halloween season is one that you don’t want to miss with haunts such as The Manor House, Scummo’s 3D Nightmare, and The Hayride, if you dare.We also have a bit of a vermin problem on our property that you can help us get under control with the Big Zombie Hunter Paintball Adventure.”

Cost: $13- $38

Dates: Oct , , 10, 11, 15, 16, 17, 18, 24, 25, 30, 31 & Nov

Time: 7 p.m. – 11 p.m.

). Haunted Ship Zombie Outbreak – 350 Harbor Drive, Duluth, Minnesota

Overview: “Are you ready for a real scare? Each year, during October, the William A. Irvin transforms itself into a haunted ship. During the self-guided tour, your worst nightmares will come to life. You’ll see how the historic ore ship’s hauntings are not just a rumor. Mysterious sightings have been recorded through the decades. Walking through the dark, eerie hallways, you’ll get the feeling that you’re never alone, because you won’t be. In this ship, no place is safe. If you think you’re brave enough to visit the Haunted Ship, remember, only the tough ones make it through alive.” –VisitDuluth.com

Cost: $10

Dates: October , , 9. 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25, 29, 30, 31

Time: 6:30-10:00 p.m.

). Molitor’s Haunted Acres – 425 35th Street NE, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379

Review: “A perilous journey of your deepest fears through the Woods of Darkness, The Sewer, Mutant Mineshaft, The Trail of Blood, Quarry Asylum and The Funhouse Maze. On your treacherous quest, be mindful not to go mad and join the tortured souls who dwell here.”

Cost: $16-$18

Dates: Oct , 4, 10, 11, 15, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25, 26, 30, 31

Time: 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.

5). Scream Town, 7410 Highway 212, Chaska, MN

Review: “Drove 2 hours to come to Screamtown last night…TOTALLY WORTH THE DRIVE!!!”
-Jeniffer Rothstein

Cost: $35 for regular ticket

When: Oct 3, 4, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 31 & Nov 1

Time: 6:30 p.m.- 11 p.m.

6). Soap Factory Haunted Basement – 514 Second Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414

Review: “This is not a Haunted House, boo-scary or hands in the bowl of grapes tricks, this is a sensory screw job that turns your mind around and lets you scare yourself. –Binary Blogger

Cost: $25; $27 Friday and Saturday

Dates: Wednesdays through Sundays, now through November 2

Time: 6- 11 p.m.

7). The Butcher Shop House of Gore – 1444 E. Reaney Ave., St. Paul, MN 55106.

Review: “HOUSE OF GORE is a full-size maze-style haunted house that was constructed in the way haunted houses used to be built… black lights, rats, skulls, cadavers, ghosts, strobe lights, fog machines, rubber masks, and gallons of shocking bloody gore!”

Cost: $5.

Dates: October 4-6, 11-13, 18-20, 25-31, November 1-2.

Time: 5 p.m. -11 p.m.

8). Trail of Terror, 3525 145th Street West, Shakopee, MN 55379

Review: “Come early and prepare your self for this scary haunted hayride (keep an eye out as things appear when you least expect it). Follow through a scary, unbelievable spooky maze and don’t be fooled by followers. The maze is the best part! This trail of terror was money worth spent and always be on the lookout, even when you approach your vehicle….I left spooked wanting more!” -Spookedme on Trip Advisor

Cost: Basic tickets $20

Dates: October 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 31, November 1

Time: 7p.m. – 11p.m.

So there you have it- a rundown of the best haunted houses in and around the Twin Cities. So brave ones, step foot inside Minnesota’s scariest haunted houses- if you dare. The original article from Funtober can be found here.

Eagan

Eagan’s roots trace back to 1860 when the town was first settled by Irish immigrants. This agricultural community was comically dubbed “The Onion Capital of the United States” because 90% of the farmers there grew onions. While Eagan no longer carries that title, this Dakota County suburb has blossomed from a rich farming community to a Twin Cities suburb that is home to over 65,000. With over 1350 acres of parks, a wide assortment of housing and Minnesota’s largest outlet mall it is no wonder that this is an attractive place to live.

The city’s growth boomed in the 1950’s when Northwest Airlines and Thomson Reuters established their headquarters there. While Northwest Airlines is no longer there, it still is home to Thomson Reuters and Blue Cross Blue Shield .

Paragon Outlets Twin Cities at Eagan is the ultimate place for shoppers to get deals for a steal. This 400,000 square foot open air mall offers shoppers over 100 premium stores such as Coach, Michael Kors, Saks 5th Avenue, Nike, Swarvoski, Adidas and more!

Besides shopping, Eagan offers a variety of attractions such as The Blast, a space themed soft-play area for young children, and Cascade Bay, Minnesota’s largest outdoor municipal water park.

If hunger strikes, the dining options in this area range far and wide. From family-friendly restaurants, Fitz’s Bar and Grill (adjacent to cedarview lanes), and ethnic choices. Or choose from the ample selection of upscale restaurants and supper clubs like Jensen’s Food and Cocktails or Doolittle’s Woodfire Grill.

The city has many inviting parks and nature preserves including Lebanon Hills Regional Park. There visitors can grill out with friends or hike along wooded trails (which were voted by City Pages “Best Hike 2013”). On the other hand, maybe finding a quite spot to unwind and enjoy the clear lake and sandy shores at Schulze Beach are more your speed.

Art lovers will appreciate the vibrant art scene Eagan has to offer. One major feature is Caponi Art Park, an outdoor sculpture garden that boasts one of the largest outdoor amphitheaters in the area. Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy performances and events in this natural setting.

Nestled on the edge of the Patrick Eagan Park lies another blending of art and nature: the Eagan Art House. As part of Eagan’s Parks and Recreation, it is a great resource and learning facility for those who have any sort of interest in art. The center offers classes, workshops and special events for those of all ages and ability levels.

Golfers will appreciate Eagan’s rolling hills as they are perfectly suited for the Lost Spur golf course. This 9 hole golf course presents golfers with an array of challenging shots while allowing them to marvel at the spectacular views the course offers.

Residents of Eagan can also take pride in the fact that Eagan has been featured five times on Money magazine’s Best Places to Live, edging out nearby Woodbury for the #11 spot this year. Townhomes, condos, residential and commercial properties are booming in development and it’s no surprise why. With Minneapolis just a quick 30-minute drive or bus ride away, the option of a trip to the big city is always there, but with a vast selection of retail, dining, it is no wonder that we are enamored with Eagan, and we bet you will be too.

Neighborhood Resources

Neighborhood Schools	Faith Communities
Faithful Shepard Catholic School	Advent United Methodist Church
Independent School District 191	All Saints Lutheran Church
Independent School District 196	Chapel Hill Baptist Church
Independent School District 197	Church of Christ at Eagan
Living Word Academy	Living Word Lutheran Church
Trinity Lone Oak Lutheran School	Oak Hills Church
Trinity at River Ridge	South Oaks Community Church
	St. John Neumann Church
	St. Thomas Becket Church
	Woodcrest Church

Parks	Restaurants
Blackhawk Park	Andiamo
Cedar Pond Park	Ansari’s Mediterranean Grill & Lounge
Central Park	Bittersweet Gluten Free Bakery
Evergreen Park	Casper’s Cherokee
Highview Park	The Mason Jar
Lakeside Park	Doolittle’s Woodfire Grill
Lebanon Hills Regional Park	El Parian Mexican Restaurant
Moonshine Park	Fitz’s Bar and Grill
Ridge Cliff Park	Hoban Korean Restaurant
Schwanz Lake Park	Jensen’s Supper Club
Slater Acres Park	Junior’s Cafe & Grill
	Kyoto Sushi and Hibachi
	Ze’s Diner

Antiques, Junk and Gems and Oh My!

This weekend (September 25th-27th) marks Shakopee’s Canterbury Park 9th annual Junk Bonanza! Self-proclaimed as “the best junk round up in the nation,” this one of a kind flea market style experience attracts more than 1,000 people annually. Featuring hundreds of vendors selling vintage items, antiques, unique oddities and artisan-repurposed pieces, we dare you to walk away empty handed. Thirsty shoppers can even satiate their thirst with Canterbury Park’s famous Bloody Mary as they stroll around the grounds.

In addition to vendors, a variety of other activities will be taking place throughout the festival. Stop by and learn the latest in specialty finishes and other decorative paint techniques with a hands on session by Annie Sloan Unfolded. Or come listen to the appraiser Tim Luke from the TV show “Cash in the Attic” as he discusses the hottest flea market trends and the future of collectibles. Additionally, Friday or “Lucky Friday” will have hourly give aways throughout the day. Participants can register to win $25 gift certificates which can be spent at vendors there. Free money?! Yes please! Lastly, while these sessions are free space is limited. Be sure to pick up your ticket the day of the session.

Interested in Tickets? Visitors can opt to buy early bird tickets for entrance at 8 a.m. on Thursday, September 25th and get a two hour head start on the rest of the crowd plus free admission on Friday and Saturday. Likewise, you can always buy a day pass for $9 and get general admission for either Friday or Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Finally, maybe the piles of junk will get your creative gears turning and will inspire your next DIY or upcycled home decor project. If you are looking for ideas, be sure to check out our Pinterest board which is loaded with suggestions. On it we have tips, tricks, and step-by-step directions for making over and continuing the use of your old furniture and decor. In short, it is jammed pack with inspiration for your next creative venture and may help guide you on your shopping experience.

So whether you are searching for antiques, junk or gems you will be sure to find it all at Junk Bonanza. Because here, one man’s trash really is another man’s treasure. So let the bonanza begin!

Awesome Apple Picking in Minnesota

Fall is finally here! The air is crisp, the leaves are turning colors and the apples are ready for picking. Apple picking is not only a fun way to spend a fall afternoon, but also is a great family friendly activity. So, from Afton to Webster and everywhere else in between, RNR has rounded up the best locations across the state.

Once you make it to an orchard, you can opt to pick your own apples or take home a pre-picked bag. Either way, visitors can expect to pay for their goodies pay by the pound. However, before you and your brood make the trip be sure to call ahead to double check the orchard’s supplies. Factors like weather, season and how busy they have been may affect these levels.

In addition to apple picking, many of the orchards boast pumpkin patches and offer a variety of other activities like hayrides, petting zoos and corn mazes. Whatever adventures you choose, you will be sure to get your fall fix.

Finally, once you make it home why not put your apples to use give this awesome apple crisp recipe a try? This simple, yet satisfying dessert can be served alone or with ice cream. Yum! Yum!

Afton Apple Orchard, Hastings

Anoka County Farms, Ham Lake

Apple Jack Orchards, Delano

Fireside Orchard and Gardens, Northfield

McDougall’s Apple Junction, Hastings

Minnesota Harvest Apple, Jordan

Minnetonka Orchards, Minnetrista

Pine Tree Apple Orchard, White Bear Lake

Sweetland Orchard, Webster

Whistling Well Farm, Hastings

For a full list of orchards, click here.

Minneapolis Metro Housing Market Shifts to Note in 2nd Half of 2014

This press release was originally published by PRWeb.

Home Destination finds several Minneapolis metro housing market shifts to note in the 2nd half of 2014 after the Department of Numbers and MAAR released recent Twin Cities housing data. Home Destination, a Minneapolis residential realtor with RE/MAX Results, shares the Minneapolis real estate reports and comments on what home buyers and sellers can anticipate till the year’s end.

Minneapolis, Twin Cities Minnesota (PRWEB) July 20, 2014

Minneapolis metro housing market shifts to note in the 2nd half of 2014 from reports released by theDepartment of Numbers, and MAAR reveal critical shifts in the Twin Cities housing market trends.

“Midway through the year, The Twin Cities home sales are beaten by last year’s by almost 10 percent after foul weather dampened the spring housing market season,” says Jenna Thuening, owner of Home Destination. “It is quite impressive that as Minneapolis home prices and listings continue to rise, there’s a positive optimism that the second half of the year will be strong.”

According to a report from the Minneapolis Area Association of Realtors for the week ending July 5, three sets of housing data show remarkable improvements.

The number of new real estate listings increased 14.8% to 1,269

Pending home sales improved 17.4% to 1,045

Available housing inventory increased 7.7% to 17,587

Additionally, here are 5 Shitfs in the Twin Cites Housing Market according to Home Destination’s summary of the two reports.

1. Asking Prices Homes Listed In Twin Cities Real Estate Improve

At the halfway point in July 2014, there were approximately 19,056 single-family residential homes and condo dwellings on the market for sale in Minneapolis Minnesota. The median asking price by sellers for these properties ran near $253,525, according to the report. “Since this time last year, the inventory of homes for sale has increased by 33.4%, and the median price has increased by 7.9%.”

2. Uptick in Available Twin Cities Real Estate Listings

June closed with 8,315 new Twin Cities real estate listing added to the market, making it easier for home buyers to find the home they want. If one compares the number of homes available to this time one year ago, housing inventory is up 8.9 percent. With more to choose from, Twin Cities home buyers who hoped to find what they want are pleased. While bidding wars still erupt, buyers have more choices than available in some time.

3. Upswing in Pending Sales of Traditional Homes

New consumer optimism stems from the drop in Twin Cities home foreclosures and short sales, which has weighed down several aspects of the housing market. In June, there was an inspiring up swing of 12 percent in pending sales of traditional homes, which is given credit for helping median home values rise 4.7 percent to $219,000. Overall, however, sales in June were down 2.2 percent to 5,531 sales.

4. Better Clip in the Time It Takes to Successfully Sell a Home

The month of June 2014 saw a drop from 73 days on the housing market till sale in 2013 to 71 days. That is a +2.8% improvement that permits sellers to close the deal and move on to the next home at a better pace. This means that sellers must be prepared to move to another home in less time. This indicator suggests a transition from rapid recovery toward a steady pace that should mean stability.

5. More Homeowners are Above Water With Sufficient Home Equity to Move

Housing data found back in June of 2013 places the median home sale price at $185,000. This June, Twin Cities home sellers’ median home price for a sold home was $191,550, a welcome increase of 3.5%. The average home sold for $223,503 in June 2013 and for $237,404 in June this year, a significant change of +6.2%.

“Yes there’s more inventory, but not in all areas or price points,” stated Minneapolis Area Association of Realtors president Emily Green in the June 11 article titled Twin Cities Has Largest Pool of Homes for Sale in Almost a Year. “This market has been supply-constrained for long enough, but the trend is moving in a positive direction.”

“When talking to prospective clients, most home buyers and sellers seem to be more confident about real estate. The steadiness of the Twin Cities housing market climb upwards seems more trustworthy to many than if we had astonishing highs,” adds Thuening. “Being rated again as one of the top cities to live in the entire U.S makes Minneapolis residents appreciate what we have more.”

Home Destination has been regarded as a competent Twin Cities Realtor for over 15 years. Minneapolis homeowners who are interested in selling a home can call Jenna Thuening for free, no-obligation market analysis at 612-396-7832.

Read the original press release publication on PRWeb.com.

Visit Duluth, the Best Outdoors Town in America

The full original post can be found here: Visit Duluth, the Best Outdoors Town in America – Minnesota Journeys – June 2014 – Minnesota.

Photo credit: "Sailing to Duluth" © 2010 by Randen Pederson (CC BY 2.0)

Duluth was recently voted the best outdoors town in America, and it’s easy to see why. With 11,000 acres of green space, miles of trails, countless activities on Lake Superior, and so much more, the title seems quite fitting. The town is home to Minnesota’s largest 4th of July fireworks extravaganza and the city’s largest neighborhood festival, Spirit Valley Days, is coming up at the end of the month. Duluth is a true four seasons town and there is never a shortage of outdoor happenings for you and your family to enjoy.

125 Fun Things to Do in Minnesota this June

Festivals, concerts, and fairs – oh my! From ArtSoup to the Zumbrota Covered Bridge Music & Arts Festival, there’s an event for everyone happening this month. Offering tons of food, music, and good old-fashioned fun, here are some of June’s must-do events in Minnesota (and one in Wisconsin that’s definitely worth the trip).

The events are listed in chronological order. Click the links for more info.

5/30 – 6/7	Lake Fest	Forest Lake
5/31 – 6/7	Hawley Rodeo Fest	Hawley
5/31 – 6/7	I Love Burnsville Week	Burnsville
6/1	Grand Old Day 2014	St. Paul
6/5 – 6/8	Tower Days	Spring Lake Park
6/6 – 6/8	Bullhead Days	Waterville
6/6 – 6/8	Cyrus Days	Cyrus
6/6	Dairy Day Celebration	Hutchinson
6/6 – 6/8	Edina Art Fair	Edina
6/6 – 6/8	Father Hennepin Festival	Champlin
6/6 – 6/7	Nisswa-Stamman Scandinavian Folk Festival	Nisswa
6/6 – 6/8	Pine Island Cheese Festival	Pine Island
6/6 – 6/20	Spring Art Expo	Cook
6/6	Twin Cities Electric Run	St. Paul
6/7 – 6/8	Annual Fountain Trail Days	Fountain
6/7	Art in the Hollow	Swede Hollow Park, St. Paul
6/7	St. Paul Summer Beerfest	St. Paul
6/7	Explore your Parks Day	Lake Elmo
6/7	Frazee Crazy Daze	Frazee
6/7	Greyfest 2014	Shoreview
6/7 – 6/8	June Bloom Wine Event	Great River Road
6/7	OtterJam 2014	Ottertail
6/7	Rhubarb Festival	Lanesboro
6/7	St. Anthony Park Arts Festival	St. Paul
6/8 – 6/15	Buffalo Days	Buffalo
6/8	Lyn Lake Street Festival	Minneapolis
6/9 – 6/15	Hutchinson Jaycee Water Carnival	Hutchinson
6/10 – 6/15	2014 Wizard of Oz Festival	Grand Rapids
6/11 – 6/15	Albertville Friendly City Days	Albertville
6/11	Friends of Ramsey Park Jamboree	Redwood Falls
6/11 – 6/14	Kick’n Up Kountry Music Festival	Karlstad
6/11 – 6/16	Steamboat Days Winona	Winona
6/12 – 8/3	2014 Minnesota Biennial	St. Paul
6/12 – 6/15	50th Annual Tater Daze	Brooklyn Park
6/12 – 6/15	Barnum Spring Fever Days	Barnum
6/12 – 6/15	Mapleton Town & Country Days	Mapleton
6/12 – 6/15	Parktacular Celebration	St. Louis Park
6/13 – 6/15	Cuyuna Lakes Mountain Bike Festival	Crosby
6/13 – 6/18	Foley Fun Days	Foley
6/13 – 6/15	Gammel Dag Fest	Peterson
6/13 – 6/14	Interlaken Heritage Days	Fairmont
6/13 – 6/14	Lake Crystal Duck Days Celebration	Lake Crystal
6/13 – 6/15	Onamia Days	Onamia
6/13 – 6/14	Fergus Falls Summer Fest	Fergus Falls
6/13 – 6/14	Wannigan Days	Taylor Falls
6/13 – 6/14	Winstock Festival	Winsted
6/14	3rd Annual Northeast Ride	Northeast Minneapolis
6/14 – 6/15	Art on the Lake	Excelsior
6/14	Bigfork Wilderness Days	Bigfork
6/14	Finnish-American Summer Festival	Embarrass
6/14	Japanese Garden Festival	Bloomington
6/14	Juneteenth	Minneapolis
6/14	Midsommar Celebration	Minneapolis
6/14	National Get Outdoors Day	Multiple locations
6/14	Northern Spark	Minneapolis
6/14 – 6/22	Perham Turtle Fest	Perham
6/14 – 6/15	Solstice Outdoor Music Festival	Mankato
6/14 – 6/15	Stone Arch Bridge Festival	Minneapolis
6/14	Twin Cities World Refugee Day	St. Paul
6/15	Chocolate, Shakespeare, & Champagne	Winona
6/15	Falls Festival on Foot	Little Falls
6/15	Lanesboro Art in the Park	Lanesboro
6/17 – 6/21	Farmington Dew Days	Farmington
6/17	Fourth Summer Food Fest	Blaine
6/17 – 6/22	Willmar Fest	Willmar
6/18 – 6/19	Faribault Heritage Celebration	Faribault
6/18 – 6/22	Rockin’ Rogers Days	Rogers
6/19 – 6/22	Cottage Grove Strawberry Fest	Cottage Grove
6/19 – 6/22	Dan Patch Days	Savage
6/19 – 6/22	Howard Lake Good Neighbor Days	Howard Lake
6/19 – 6/22	Hennepin County Fair	Corcoran
6/19 – 6/21	June Jubilee Family Fun Day	Wadena
6/19 – 7/4	Manitou Days	White Bear Lake
6/19 – 6/22	Zumbrota Covered Bridge Music & Arts Festival	Zumbrota
6/20 – 6/22	150th Sesquicentennial Celebration of Redwood Falls	Redwood Falls
6/20 – 6/22	Prairie Fest	Long Prairie
6/20	Redwood Falls Community Parade	Redwood Falls
6/20 – 6/29	Rochesterfest	Rochester
6/20 – 6/21	Roseau Scandinavian Festival	Roseau
6/20 – 6/22	Sherburn Holiday Festival	Sherburn
6/21	3rd Annual Summer Party in New Ulm	New Ulm
6/21	50th & Bryant Street Fest	Minneapolis
6/21 – 6/22	Afton Strawberry Fest	Afton
6/21	Freedom Days of Becker	Becker
6/21 – 6/22	GermanFest	St. Paul
6/21 – 6/22	Rock the Garden	Minneapolis
6/21	Solstice Music and Arts Fair	Clearwater
6/21	Walk Around the World International Festival	Rochester
6/23 – 6/28	Plein Air Art and Music Festival	Red Wing
6/25 – 6/29	58th Annual Columbia Heights Jamboree	Columbia Heights
6/25 – 6/28	Norman County Fair	Ada
6/25 – 6/29	Summerfest	Milwaukee, WI
6/26 – 6/29	Cass County Fair	Pine River
6/26	Walker Crazy Days	Walker
6/26 – 6/29	Dawson Riverfest	Dawson
6/26 – 6/28	Earle Brown Days	Brooklyn Center
6/26 – 6/29	Fridley ’49er Days Festival	Fridley
6/26 – 6/28	Jazz Festival	St. Paul
6/26 – 6/29	Riverside Days	Springfield
6/26 – 6/30	Rosefest	Roseville
6/26 – 6/28	Watertower Festival	Pipestone
6/27 – 6/29	Blaine Festival	Blaine
6/27 – 6/29	Browerville Heritage Days	Browerville
6/27 – 6/28	Ethnic Dance Theatre: 40th Anniversary	Minneapolis
6/27 – 6/29	Kaposia Days	St. Paul
6/27 – 6/29	Meadowfest 2014	Grand Meadow
6/27 – 6/28	Melrose Riverfest	Melrose
6/27 – 6/28	Midwest Viking Festival and Scandinavian Hjemkomst Festival	Moorhead
6/27 – 6/29	Pine River Summerfest	Pine River
6/27 – 6/29	Red Lake County Fair	Oklee
6/27	Special Olympics Minnesota Summer Games 5k	Oak Park Heights
6/28	ArtSoup in Elk River	Elk River
6/28	Burwell Art Fair	Minnetonka
6/28	Burwell House Festival	Minnetonka
6/28 – 6/29	Eagan Art Festival	Eagan
6/28 – 7/4	Freedom Days in Apple Valley	Apple Valley
6/28 – 6/30	Paul Bunyan Days	Akeley
6/28	Pet-A-Palooza	St. Paul
6/28	St. Boni Spass-Tagen Fun Days	St. Bonifacius
6/28 – 6/29	Twin Cities Pride Festival	Loring Park, Minneapolis
6/28 – 6/29	Wayzata Art Experience	Wayzata
6/29	MN Food Truck Fair	Uptown Minneapolis
6/29	Svenskarnas Dag	Minnehaha Park
6/29	Vikingland Band Festival	Alexandria
6/30 – 7/6	Military Family Week at the Minnesota Zoo	Apple Valley

Best Bike Trails in Minnesota

In case you weren’t aware, May is National Bike Month. The designation was established in 1956 as a way to encourage more physical activity while showcasing the numerous benefits of biking. It is also a great way to celebrate the much-anticipated pleasant springtime weather. While many people may just see biking as a leisure activity to be left for the weekend, it is actually a viable option for daily transportation to work, school or just around the town (weather permitting, of course). This year, people are urged to skip their usual aggravating commute and instead hop on their ten-speeds during Bike to Work Week from May 12th to 16th, and especially on Friday, May 16th, Bike to Work Day. Not only will this break from the daily commute do wonders for the physical (and mental!) health of drivers, it will also be extremely beneficial to the environment.

May also kicks off the National Bike Challenge, an annual contest lasting until September, that connects “bike-minded” individuals in a friendly competition. Last year, more than 30,000 bikers rode almost 19 million miles. The challenge organizers – The League of American Bicyclists – are looking to top that this year, with a goal of getting 50,000 riders to pedal more than 30 million miles during the five-month period. To become a part of this monumental event, register here.

If you want to start logging some miles for the challenge, there is no better place to do it than right here in the Twin Cities. Minneapolis has repeatedly been ranked as the nation’s most bikeable city, with rider-friendly roads, an abundance of parks, and multiple trails that pass through the metro area. In fact, last week was Minneapolis Bike Week, which encouraged bicyclists of all skill levels to take to the streets. Moreover, Minnesota – aka “The Bike Friendly State” – as a whole is home to some of the choicest biking trails in the nation. After a long, harsh winter that prompts many to seek solace indoors, it is easy to see why so many Minnesotans are eager to jump on their bikes and enjoy some physical activity in the great outdoors come May. With Minnesota’s thousands of miles of trails, there is definitely something to please everyone, whether you’re a beginner or an expert, or whether you prefer a leisurely bike ride along the river or an afternoon of adrenaline-pumping mountain biking. Without further ado, here are a few of the best places to take your two-wheeler for a spin around the state*:

Mississippi River Trail (MRT) (On-road; across the state)
- Distance covered: 500+ miles
- Starting point: Itasca State Park
- MN ending point: Border of Iowa
- Highlights along the trail: Grand Rapids; Historic downtown Little Falls; Munsinger Gardens in St. Cloud; Twin Cities; Winona
- Make time to: take in the stunning river views; seek out historic sites; visit museums, parks and festivals along the way

Heartland State Trail (Paved path; Northwestern Minnesota)
- Distance covered: 49 miles
- Starting point: Park Rapids
- Ending point: Cass Lake
- Highlights along the trail: the state’s biggest Paul Bunyan in Akeley; the village of Dorset; the old trestle bridge over Steamboat Lake
A view of Oak Lake from the Luce Line State Trail as it passes through Watertown. Photo Credit: Erin Reyes
Luce Line State Trail (Paved path; Twin Cities area)
- Distance covered: 63 miles
- Starting point: Plymouth
- Ending point: Cosmos
- Highlights along the trail: trestle bridge crossing of Gleason Lake in Plymouth; West Hennepin Pioneer Museum in Long Lake; downtown Watertown (“The Heart of the Luce Line Trail”)
- Besides biking, also great for: Sightseeing, Hiking, Running, Jogging, Walking, Dog Walking, Horseback Riding, Snowmobiling, Cross Country Skiing, Snowshoeing
- Fun fact: Runs along a former railroad line

Root River State Trail (Paved path; Southeastern Minnesota)
- Distance covered: 42 miles (also connects to the 18-mile Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail)
- Starting point: Fountain, MN
- Ending point: Houston, MN
- Highlights along the trail: Commonweal Theatre Company in Lanesboro; concerts at Sylvan Park; world-famous Aroma Pie Shop in Whalan; scenery such as limestone cliffs, pastures, fields of wildflowers, and wooden bridges
- Fun facts: Nicknamed “The Cadillac of Trails”; the main street of Lanesboro (the hub of the trail) is a designated historic district

Cuyuna County State Recreation Area (Mountain Biking; Northern Minnesota)
- Distance covered: 25 miles
- Location: Crosby-Ironton area
- Fun fact: Designated as an International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA) Ride Center, one of only a few in the world
- Level of difficulty: ranges from Easy to Extremely Difficult

Minnesota Valley/State Recreation Area (Mountain Biking; Southwestern Minnesota)
- Distance covered: 35 miles
- Starting point: Shakopee
- Ending point: Belle Plaine
- Besides biking, great for: Sightseeing along the River, Hiking, Running, Horseback Riding

If you want a closer look at these or any trails in the state, cruise on over to the Minnesota State Bicycle Map: mndot.gov/bike. Also, be sure to visit BlueToad.com for the complete list of Minnesota bike trails.

Bike Safety

As long as we’re on the topic of cycling, we thought we’d share some basic safety tips that all riders can benefit from, whether you’re hitting the road or the trails for the first time or you’ve been riding since before you could walk (via sharetheroadmn.org):

Always wear a helmet, even if you are an experienced rider.
It is best to travel with a friend, even if you feel you are familiar with the area.
Obey all traffic lights and signal your turns.
Look both ways at intersections and driveways.
Carry water and other drinks to avoid dehydration. If you are planning a long journey, also make sure you bring snacks to keep you fueled.
Use a front light and rear reflector if you are riding in the dark.

Riding on Trails:

Ride on the right side of the trail so that others may pass.
Alert other users you are passing by calling “On your left!”
Move off the trail when resting, to keep the path clear for others.

Riding on Roads:

Ride in the same direction as vehicles.
Be predictable to motorists.

Now tell us: where in Minnesota do you love to ride your bike? Do you have any safety tips? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

*All info about these trails comes from Pedal Minnesota’s Biking guide.

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