15 Unique Things to Do in Faribault
How to Plan Your Day Trip to Faribault, Minnesota I spent three years living just outside Faribault, and this little town offers more than initially meets the eye. Located just one hour south of the Twin Cities, Faribault is a small town rich in character and history! Did you know the tilt-a-whirl was invented in Faribault, Minnesota? Herbert Sellner, a woodworker and water slide designer, invented the tilt-a-whirl in 1926 at his home in Faribault. Over the next 12 months, the first 14 tilt-a-whirls were built in Sellner’s basement and yard. Now, a handful of tilt-a-whirls are scattered around downtown Faribault, making for a fun photo op! #1 Kickoff the…
110+ Things to Do in the Berkshires
The Berkshires are a Special Place The Berkshires is a rural region located in western Massachusetts. Many restaurants, hotels, and shops in the Berkshires were first founded in the late 1700s and early 1800s. The region then boomed during the Gilded Age shortly after the Civil War. Known for its incredible hikes, fall-foliage viewing opportunities, a strong farm-to-table food scene, and a plethora of art galleries, theaters, mansions, and concerts, you’ll quickly see why the Berkshires live up to their hype. My parents have a lake house in Stockbridge and over the years I’ve come to love the Berkshires. After spending a few days here, you’ll quickly understand why it’s such a special place. While…
10 Great Reasons to Visit Waseca
Waseca, a Small Town with a Big Personality Waseca is known for its comfortable and friendly atmosphere, and it’s just one hour south of Minneapolis. With a population of around 9,000, you’ll be surprised by how much this small town has to offer. With two breweries, one winery, a plethora of shops, museums, restaurants, and parks, you’ll easily be able to plan a memorable getaway with friends, or the whole family. #1 Jump Out of a Plane For the real thrill-seekers, I highly recommend you go skydiving with Skydive Northstar! They were extremely professional and knowledgeable. My instructor was one of the owners and he’s been jumping for nearly 20…
8 Fun Things to Do in Alexandria
Alexandria is a Great Summer Weekend Trip Heading up north to a lake town is an absolute must for Minnesotans in the summer. One of the most popular places is Alexandria and for good reason. I’ve been to Alexandria a few times and always have a great time. With several museums, a handful of breweries, a winery, and great shopping it’s no wonder Alexandria is a very popular summer destination. And one of the best parts is that it’s a short two-hour drive from Minneapolis! #1 Stay in a Unique Bed and Breakfast If possible, I always prefer to stay in a bed and breakfast or Airbnb as opposed to…
8 Fun Things to Do in Luverne, Minnesota
Ladies Camping Trip in Luverne Would you drive over three hours to take a camping trip with 20 strangers? I didn’t think I would either, but something pulled me towards this group travel experience a few months ago when I first learned about it. And on impulse, I signed up! As a kid, my family went camping every summer. But my last camping trip was more than 15 years ago. Luckily, I have a friend who is an experienced camper. She let me borrow all of her gear and gave me a few pointers before heading off on my trip. Luverne is a small town in the southwest corner of…
Inspiration for Your Day Trip to Northfield, Minnesota
Plan Your Day Trip to Northfield, Minnesota Northfield, Minnesota is the perfect place for your next day trip. It’s a quaint town located about 40 miles south of the Twin Cities. Around 1914, Northfield declared its official town slogan “Cows, Colleges and Contentment.” In 2014, Northfield ranked number two for the best small town in the country. This charming river town has beautiful parks, great restaurants with outdoor patios, farmer’s markets, and a handful of very trendy shops. I spent three years living just outside downtown Northfield, and I absolutely love this town. Looking to learn more about Northfield’s history? Visit the Northfield Historical Society and learn more about the town’s unique…
9 Epic State Parks Along the North Shore
The Best State Parks in MN Various spots along the North Shore of Lake Superior remind me of Maine, Vancouver, and Ireland. It’s absolutely breathtaking and it’s hard to believe it’s just a few hours away from the Twin Cities. There are many incredible places along the North Shore with stunning beauty, breathtaking ruggedness, and powerful waterfalls. How many have you been to? #1 Jay Cooke State Park Best known for its iconic swinging bridge, Jay Cooke State Park makes an awesome stop on a trip to the North Shore. Just 20 minutes south of Duluth, Jay Cooke State Park offers unbelievable views of the St. Louis River. There are…
10 Great Reasons to Visit Cook County
Cook County is the North Shore’s Most Northern Spot Cook County is the most northern part of the North Shore. It offers rugged hikes, spotty cellphone reception, potential bear and moose sightings, and some of the most breathtaking views in the midwest. There are several state parks, epic waterfalls, including Minnesota’s tallest waterfall and one of Minnesota’s cutest towns, Grand Marais. #1 Walk to Artists Point Be sure to walk along the beach and out to Artists Point, which is a narrow peninsula that juts into Lake Superior. Be aware that sometimes this narrow pier is slick and wet in warmer months and icy in colder months as water often…
