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Festivals and Events

The arrival of spring means there is plenty to do in Saint Paul.

Saint Paul, Minnesota

Local and global. adventurous and laid back..

Saint Paul is a capital city where over 100 languages are spoken and diversity is celebrated — in food, festivals and art. A city that cares for its heritage, its people, its natural places, and for those who come to visit. We welcome you.

This is your source for the latest on upcoming events, deals, restaurants, lodging and more. Be sure to order your free copy of the Insider's Guide and share your Saint Paul experience on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook using the hashtag, #MYSAINTPAUL .

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8 Ways To Play Outside This Spring in Saint Paul

Top Things to Do this Spring in Saint Paul

10 Ways to Spend Spring Break in Saint Paul

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Location map.

• 3 Other destinations
• 4 Understand
• 6.2 By plane
• 6.3 By train
• 7 Get around
• 8.1 Twin Cities
• 8.3 Rochester
• 8.4 Outstate/Greater Minnesota
• 9.2 Sports teams
• 9.3 Entertainment
• 12.1 State liquor laws
• 13.1.1 Thunderstorms and tornadoes
• 13.1.2 Winter storms

Minnesota is a state in the Midwest of the USA . The 12th largest state in the country, it is commonly referred to as the "Land of 10,000 Lakes". The state is home to many native American reservations, and is a center of Scandinavian culture.

Regions [ edit ]

Cities [ edit ]

• 44.944167 -93.093611 1 St. Paul , the capital and second-largest city, with a historic-looking state capitol.
• 44.833611 -93.31 2 Bloomington , home of the Mall of America, and the only IKEA in the state.
• 46.786944 -92.098056 3 Duluth , the primary city in northeastern Minnesota and gateway to the North Shore and Arrowhead Region.
• 44.167667 -94.0034 4 Mankato , the hub of the smallest metropolitan area in Minnesota.
• 44.981944 -93.269167 5 Minneapolis , the largest city in the state and the center of the "North". Extremely rich in culture and diversity.
• 44.458333 -93.161111 6 Northfield , on the Cannon River with the motto "Cows, Colleges, and Contentment" and the annual "Defeat of Jesse James Days" celebration.
• 45.826111 -92.968611 7 Pine City , the primary city in the East Central region, equidistant to Minneapolis and Duluth, and home to the Snake River Fur Post.
• 44.0234 -92.46295 8 Rochester , the primary city in southeastern Minnesota and a global destination for health and wellness, home to the Mayo Clinic.
• 45.553889 -94.170278 9 St. Cloud , the largest population center in the State's central region.

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 47.8167 -91.2 1 Boundary Waters Canoe Area
• 44.2883 -94.4736 2 Flandrau State Park
• 47.2397 -95.2075 3 Itasca State Park
• 44.013333 -96.325 4 Pipestone National Monument
• 48.5 -92.883333 5 Voyageurs National Park – Minnesota's only national park, commemorating the French–Canadian fur seal traders

Understand [ edit ]

Minnesotans generally present a cheery, genial attitude ("Minnesota nice") and may be caught off-guard when people don't reciprocate. Minnesotans' cheery attitude combined with a sing-song accent contrasts them with their fellow Midwesterners. Also, Minnesota represents a rare left-wing presence in the Midwestern United States, famously described in the book Main Street by Minnesota author Sinclair Lewis as Mr. Stowbody, "Trouble enough with these foreign farmers; if you don't watch these Swedes they turn socialist or populist or some fool thing on you in a minute." In fact, these Swedes and foreign farmers did turn socialist, forming the Farmer-Labor Party in 1918, electing three successive governors, four senators and eight US representatives, until it merged with the Minnesota Democratic party in 1944. The state maintains liberal leanings and is home to the second largest LGBT population in the US. Combine Minnesota's cultural eccentricities with its beautiful forests and lakes and you have a gem for any tourist in the Midwestern US.

Unlike many other US states that sport several major urban centers, most of Minnesota's urban culture is centered in the "Twin Cities" of Minneapolis and St. Paul, which effectively form one large city divided into separate political areas. Although other urban centers exist in Rochester and Duluth, the centralization of population, wealth, and political power in the Twin Cities makes visiting "the Cities" a very different experience than the rest of the state.

Talk [ edit ]

The stereotypical Minnesotan dialect as popularized in the film Fargo is more prevalent in northern (Iron Range) and rural parts of the state than it is in the Twin Cities metropolitan area. In fact, in the metropolitan area, the accent is rarely noticed by visitors, much less the locals. The dialect is characterized by long vowels and a slight inflection (especially Os as found in the word "boat"). The sing-songy intonation is less common with each generation removed from the Scandinavian ancestors. Some Native Americans (primarily Ojibwe) have an accent of their own.

In addition to a unique dialect, Minnesota also has several phrases and colloquial expressions that can be overheard somewhat frequently. These are most frequently heard in the northern parts of the state, and are rarely heard in urban areas. These include:

• Uff-da – Norwegian exclamation meaning "Off it!" Typically used as a response to surprising or exasperating circumstances.
• You betcha – You bet/of course.
• Yah sure – I agree. Sometimes used in conjunction with "You betcha". "Yah sure you betcha".
• Don-cha-no – Meaning "Don't you know". Used at the end of sentences as a sort of emphatic phrase. "Sure is cold outside, don-cha-no!".
• Hot dish – Casserole.
• Oh yah – Yes.
• Oh, for [adjective]! - "Oh, for cute" or if you went sledding last weekend one might say "oh, for fun!" ("Oh, for silly; oh, for funny; oh, for crazy") - the word "for" is used in place of the standard word, "how." - "Oh, how fun!"
• Choppers – Leather mittens with wool inserts, used for the really cold days.
• Tuque – [Pronounced "Tuke"] or *Stocking cap (Knitted winter hat).
• Boughten – Adjective for a store-bought item, as opposed to home-made, as in 'boughten bread.'
• Sled – Slang term for a snowmobile.
• Popple – Aspen or poplar tree, one of the most common trees in northern Minnesota and important part of the logging industry.
• A forty – 40 acres (about 16 hectares), or quarter-mile by quarter-mile of land, a derivative of the Public Land Survey (PLS) system.
• Acrost – Scandinavian influenced regional pronunciation of "across."
• Up north – Usually refers to anywhere that is north of the Twin Cities or where the person is at that time. ex.- Up north to Ely [while in Duluth ].
• Whipping Shitties – Braking suddenly in an icy parking lot while the steering wheel is turned sharply causing the vehicle to spin.
• Skol – From the Swedish term skål , a common drinking phrase used when clinking glasses together, such as "Cheers", "Salud", or "Chin Chin." Also used in their song for the Minnesota Vikings American football team, "Skol Vikings."
• Snus – A Swedish word for wet snuff, a tobacco variety common in the North.
• schnort – ("Would you like a schnort?) an extra splash or shot of whatever your drinking, schnapps, whiskey, rum. usually hard alcohol.
• The Cities – (The Twin Cities of Minneapolis/St. Paul). For those living outside "The Cities" it is rare to refer to Minneapolis or St. Paul individually. Instead, the collective name is typically used.)
• Outstate – Used to describe non-metropolitan (i.e., non-Twin Cities) Minnesota. Also sometimes known as "Greater Minnesota".
• Duck Duck Grey Duck – A version of "Duck Duck Goose."

Get in [ edit ]

By car [ edit ].

Three Interstate highways travel through Minnesota. I-90 and I-94 travel east-west, while I-35 travels north-south. Highway 2 travels through the state. Several other national and state highways also travel through the state.

By plane [ edit ]

The Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport ( MSP  IATA ) is a major hub for Delta Air Lines and has many international flights to Europe and Asia, while smaller international airports exist in Duluth ( DLH  IATA ), Rochester ( RST  IATA ), and regional airports in Saint Cloud ( STC  IATA ), Brainerd ( BRD  IATA ), Bemidji ( BJI  IATA ), Thief River Falls ( TVF  IATA ), Hibbing ( HIB  IATA ), and International Falls ( INL  IATA ).

By train [ edit ]

For rail travel, there are Amtrak stations in La Crosse (Wisconsin), Winona, Red Wing, Saint Paul, Saint Cloud, Staples, Detroit Lakes, Fargo (North Dakota), and Grand Forks (North Dakota). These are served by the Empire Builder daily, which runs from Chicago to Seattle/Portland.

By bus [ edit ]

For bus travel, Minneapolis is served by Greyhound and Jefferson Lines (popular for intrastate travel). Megabus also stops in downtown Minneapolis and downtown Saint Paul, with direct service to Chicago, Madison, and Milwaukee.

Get around [ edit ]

Metro Transit offers bus and light rail services to the Twin Cities and their surrounding suburbs. Average fare for either service is typically $2 ($2.50 for the peak times of 6AM-9AM and 3PM-6:30PM.) The fare buys the rider a pass that can be used to ride on or transfer to any Metro Transit bus or train for 150 minutes. The Duluth Transit authority offers bus and trolley service to the Twin Ports area.

Senior citizens and individuals with a disability are able to ride the buses and light rails for a reduced fair of $1 upon verification.

The relatively new light rail service offers a visitor-friendly line that connects the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP), the Mall of America, the Warehouse District, and downtown Minneapolis among other places.

Information on transit can be found here .

If your vehicle can run on E85, you can save money by using E85 instead of gas—however, if you have a "flex fuel" vehicle that can run on any gasoline/ethanol combination from E0 (pure gasoline) to E85, you're likely to get 20–25% lower fuel economy when running on E85 than on standard gasoline, which in Minnesota is 10% ethanol. The mileage loss will vary with the actual composition of E85, which differs seasonally (winter blends of "E85" are actually 70% ethanol). There are over 350 stations that sell E85.

See [ edit ]

Twin Cities [ edit ]

• The Walker Art Center and adjacent Sculpture Garden, near downtown Minneapolis, is one of the "big five" modern art museums in the United States.
• The Minnesota Children's Museum in St. Paul is an exciting, immersive world and a hands-on, stimulating environment for children six months to 10 years old.
• The Science Museum of Minnesota in downtown Saint Paul.
• Valley Fair in Shakopee is a theme park located in Shakopee that includes 6 roller coasters, a water park and an assortment of family rides.
• Summit Avenue in Saint Paul is home to the nation's largest stretch of Victorian-style homes. The east end is anchored by the St. Paul Cathedral, and the West end by the University of St. Thomas. Other notable homes on Summit Ave. include the Governor's mansion, and the James J. Hill house.

Duluth [ edit ]

• Canal Park is a neighborhood where plenty of stores line the streets
• Enger Tower and Park provides panoramic views of Duluth and the Twin Ports area, and boasts lovely and distinct gardens.
• Glensheen Mansion is a locally famous "haunted" mansion and historic estate.
• The Great Lakes Aquarium is devoted exclusively to freshwater exhibits
• Lake Superior Zoo has hundreds of animals and exotic species.
• Karpeles Manuscript Museum
• The Downtown Waterfront District

Rochester [ edit ]

• The Mayo Clinic is an internationally-known medical care facility.
• Soldiers Field is a memorial dedicated to Minnesotan and American veterans.

Outstate/Greater Minnesota [ edit ]

• Pipestone National Monument . Home to Native American petroglyphs.  
• Tenney , the smallest incorporated city in America, with a population of 6.
• Grand Marais , a small town on the upper tip of the Arrow Head of Minnesota, Grand Marais is about 2.4 hours northeast of Duluth by car. Grand Marais maintains a beautiful lake-front and such local novelties as World's Famous Donuts, Sivertson's Gallery, Sven & Ole's, and The Angry Trout. During the day tourists enjoy walking around town and experiencing the northwood's culture as well as walking out on the old rock formations that create the semi-natural harbor, skip a few stones and live the true north life.
• Pine City , a small rivertown in east central Minnesota, Pine City is about one hour northeast of Minneapolis by car. The town is surprisingly interesting with enough to do (museums, restaurants, shops, etc.) to keep from getting fidgety. Oh, and it the first rural community in the U.S. to have held a gay pride, held annually to this day.
• Red Wing , 60 miles from the Twin Cities, is a very nice rivertown. If you visit, make sure to climb Barn Bluff, the large hill to the south of town. Red Wing is home to the Red Wing Shoe Company, and visitors can watch the famous boots being made on-site. Red Wing is also a sort of gateway to the bluff country of southeastern Minnesota.

Do [ edit ]

• Minneapolis means "City of Lakes" and is home to an impressive array of recreational lakes. Lake Nokomis, Bde Maka Ska (Lake Calhoun), Lake of the Isles, Cedar Lake, and Lake Harriet are just a few that make up the city's waterfronts. Many have biking/running/walking trails, or canoe/paddleboat/kayak rentals.
• Quarry Hill Nature Center in Rochester provides recreational activities, cross country skis, and snowshoes.
• Itasca State Park . Itasca State Park in Outstate/Greater Minnesota is home to the Mississippi River headwaters at Lake Itasca.  
• Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) . Part of the Superior National Forest.  

Events [ edit ]

• [dead link] Minneapolis Aquatennial .  
• St. Paul Winter Carnival .  
• Minnesota Irish Fair .  
• Svenskarnas Dag . One of the biggest Swedish festivals in the US, Svenskarnas Dag is held on the 4th Sunday in June at Minnehaha Park in Minneapolis. The day includes many traditional Swedish events such as the raising of the Midsommer Pole, singing and dancing, a morning church service and the crowning of Queen Midsommer. Authentic Scandinavian gifts and food are available for purchase.  
• Grandma's Marathon . One of the top road races in the Midwest, attracting over 9,000 runners each June in Two Harbors and Duluth.  
• State Fair . Probably the biggest and best attraction is the annual state fair. Twelve days ending Labor Day includes such notable moments as the crowning of Princess Kay of the Milky Way (who, along with her court of runners up, will become busts carved out of a life size block of butter), farm animals of all kinds, any kind of food on a stick (make sure to try a Pronto Pup corn dog) as well as evening concerts from well-known bands. Tickets cost $11 for adults and $8 for kids at the gate. It opens at 6AM and closes at midnight; 10PM on Labor Day.  
• Minnesota Renaissance Festival . Running weekends and Labor Day in August and September, the Minnesota Renaissance Festival boasts the highest attendance of all Renaissance festivals in the Midwest. Like most Renaissance festivals, it is host to a myriad of stage and street acts, jousting events, an  
• Karl Oskar Days . In a cute Minnesotan-Swedish village, Lindström, known as "America's Little Sweden". 45 minutes northeast on 35E from Minneapolis. A celebration of Swedish Author, Vilhelm Moberg's book of "The Emigrants," detailing the lives of Swedish immigrants to Minnesota.  

Sports teams [ edit ]

In Minneapolis/St. Paul, sports fans can take in games of the Minnesota Twins MLB Baseball, Vikings of NFL football, Wild of NHL hockey, the Timberwolves of NBA basketball, the Lynx of WNBA basketball, Minnesota United FC of MLS soccer, the Saints minor league baseball, and the various Minnesota Golden Gophers teams of the University of Minnesota sports.

Entertainment [ edit ]

• Ordway Center . A musical and theatrical venue in downtown St. Paul, home of the Minnesota Opera, St. Paul Chamber Orchestra,and Schubert Club.  
• Orchestra Hall . Is home to the Minnesota Orchestra.  
• Guthrie Theater . Opened in 1968, with a new multistage theater center built along the Mississippi river in 2006. The Guthrie is a nationally renowned performing space.  
• First Avenue . An eclectic mix of music and entertainment. The building was originally a Greyhound Bus terminal and was converted into a concert venue in 1968. In the 1980s, First Avenue was a regular performing space for Prince.  
• Canterbury Park is a horse race track & card club casino in Shakopee. The card club is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Buy [ edit ]

The Mall of America in Bloomington is the nation's largest indoor mall boasting over 500 shops, and an indoor amusement park.

Eat [ edit ]

Traditional Minnesotan food is generally of the hearty meat & potatoes variety found all over the Midwest, but, as you might expect from The Land of 10,000 Lakes, with more of an emphasis on fish. Two locally popular fish are walleye, with fine, firm, white flesh, and lake trout, with firm, pinkish flesh vaguely similar to salmon.

Lutefisk is a popular dish brought to Minnesota by Norwegian immigrants. Made from dried cod reconstituted in caustic lye, it is an acquired taste, to say the least. This dish is more often brought out at Christmas time, in church basement suppers all over the state. For the less adventurous, there is lefse, a kind of tortilla-thin flatbread made with potato flour that can be used in a variety of ways, but is usually slathered with butter and sugar and rolled up into a tube.

If you are in the Twin Cities area, you can find almost any kind of ethnic cuisine you desire, especially along Nicollet Avenue in Minneapolis, popularly known as "Eat Street". St. Paul has a large southeast Asian population, and there is a large East African population spread throughout the Twin Cities, but centered mostly in Minneapolis--the Safari Restaurant (Somali), the Blue Nile (Ethiopian), and the Holy Land Deli (Middle Eastern) are three well-known restaurants catering to those communities, along with countless hole-in-the-wall places along Franklin, Nicollet, and Central Avenues.

Drink [ edit ]

State liquor laws [ edit ].

As in the rest of the United States, the drinking age is 21 . Minnesota has an ingrained drinking culture that is prevalent even in rural areas. Bars and restaurants that serve liquor may do so until 2AM seven days a week, although not all do (especially on Sunday through Thursday), and some municipalities may enforce an earlier closing time.

Unlike most other states, you cannot buy alcohol in a grocery store or convenience store, unless it is 3.2 beer , which is a low-alcohol beer containing only 3.2% alcohol by weight (4% alcohol by volume). Some grocery stores don't even bother selling 3.2 beer even though they are allowed to, a testament to the state's rather prevalent drinking culture.

If you want regular beer, wine, or liquor, but don't want to drink it at a restaurant or bar, then you must go to a liquor store. Per state law, liquor stores are allowed to operate M-Sa 8AM to 10PM, and Su 11AM to 6PM. Local jurisdictions are allowed to greater restrictions as they see fit. For example, Sunday sales were only legalized at the state level in 2017, and some towns have opted to keep the prohibition on Sunday sales. Some cities and towns may operate municipal liquor stores and prohibit private ones. Despite this puritanical approach to alcohol sales, even rural towns have a fairly active drinking culture (the cliche of "more bars than churches"). Identification is checked less often than in other states, though it happens more frequently in areas with a high amount of college students or tourists.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Severe weather [ edit ].

Perhaps the biggest danger is the weather. Given that the state has a continental climate, Minnesota often experiences extreme temperatures. The weather can be quite nasty, so prepare and plan accordingly.

Thunderstorms and tornadoes [ edit ]

During the spring and summer seasons, the state (particularly its southern region) has the tendency to experience violent thunderstorms which do, on occasion, spawn tornadoes . It is a good idea to pay attention to weather conditions during these seasons to maintain an awareness of any potential for these severe storms to occur. Keep in mind that weather conditions change very quickly, and therefore, frequently updating yourself in regards to the conditions is something to consider while traveling to or through the state during the spring/summer seasons.

Refer to the Tornado safety page for more information.

Winter storms [ edit ]

When traveling outside major metropolitan areas during winter months it is advisable to take extra blankets or warm weather gear in the event of an accident or mechanical difficulties. One rule of thumb for native Minnesotans is to always have your vehicle's gas tank at least half full during the winter months. The high temperatures during the winter are typically in the 10-30 °F (-10–0 °C) range, but can go below zero a few weeks during the winter. Native Minnesotans are taught to bundle up and wear layers during the winter at a very early age. You might also note that unlike many other states, Minnesotans are quite accustomed to driving on icy and snowy roads. Furthermore, the Minnesota Department of Motor Vehicles has a great number of snowplows that clear and salt roads after snowstorms. Therefore do not be surprised if businesses and schools remain open even after a heavy snowfall.

In winter months, make sure to check the ice thickness before going out on a frozen lake or pond. Do not park your vehicle on a lake or pond unless it is deemed safe by the local DNR officers. Never walk on river ice. It may appear safe but may not be thick enough to support your weight, due to the river current flowing underneath.

Camping [ edit ]

Minnesota - the land of 10,000 Lakes - has beautiful wilderness and camping sites. It is home to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW or BWCA), a 1,090,000-acre (4,400 km²) wilderness area within the Superior National Forest in northeastern Minnesota (USA). Northwest of the BWCA is Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota’s only national park. There are also numerous state parks .

See also Camping in the United States .

Go next [ edit ]

• North Dakota - Minnesota's western neighbor is America's least visited state, but its isolation provides opportunities for uncrowded visits to the state's hills and lakes, badlands, plains, and old frontier forts.
• South Dakota - Home to such natural and cultural wonders as Badlands National Park , Wind Cave National Park and Mount Rushmore , Minnesota's neighbor to the southwest offers a surprising amount for travelers to see and do.
• Iowa - Rural Iowa is Minnesota's southern neighbor and provides the opportunity to explore America's agricultural heartland.
• Wisconsin - "America's Dairyland" borders Minnesota to the east.
• Michigan - The Upper Peninsula offers wilderness areas similar to those found in Northeastern Minnesota and can be reached by heading east across Lake Superior.
• Ontario - Northeast of Minnesota, Northern Ontario covers 90% of the actual land mass of Ontario but only holds 6% of its population.
• Manitoba - Minnesota's northwestern neighbor is known for its prairies, agriculture, culture and history.

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When you come to Duluth, you understand what makes it special. From the world-famous lift bridge to charming neighborhoods filled with local breweries and restaurants, Duluth is a true original along the pristine shores of Lake Superior. Part rugged, part refined and 100% one-of-a-kind. You’ll get it when you get here.

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14 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Minnesota

Written by Lana Law Updated May 11, 2023

From the lake-laden North Country to the marble exterior of the State Capitol in St. Paul, Minnesota is brimming with natural and cultural beauty. Plan to explore the wilderness areas of Minnesota, including Superior National Forest and the North Shore of Lake Superior, or cultural attractions, like the Minneapolis Institute of Art or the outstanding Munsinger Clemens Gardens in St. Cloud.

Whether it's wandering down the hiking trails , paddling the waterways, gliding down the ski hills , or shopping at Mall of America, Minnesota is more than a land of 10,000 lakes, it's a state with unlimited things to do. Discover more places to visit with our list of top tourist attractions.

1. Superior National Forest & Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

2. see the sights along the north shore scenic drive, 3. paddle voyageurs national park, 4. international wolf center, 5. minnesota state capitol building, 6. go shopping at the mall of america, 7. como park zoo & conservatory, 8. minneapolis institute of art, 9. split rock lighthouse state park, 10. stroll through munsinger clemens gardens, 11. duluth aerial lift bridge, 12. go camping at itasca state park, 13. cathedral of st. paul, 14. minnehaha park.

Superior National Forest , with pristine lakes and rivers, covers large areas of northeast Minnesota. The town of Ely, home to the International Wolf Center , is an excellent base from which to explore the unspoiled landscape. The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, which lies within the forest, is well known among paddlers in the United States and Canada.

It is located along the boundary between the two countries and is a great area for backcountry canoe and kayaking trips , as well as fishing. This area is remote and supports a great deal of wildlife, including bears, moose, and wolves. Superior National Forest covers more than three million acres, of which 445,000 acres or almost 700 square miles are made up of water.

The North Shore Scenic Drive near Duluth follows the north shore of Lake Superior from Duluth to Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada. Along this route are many of the top state parks in Minnesota , including Split Rock Lighthouse, Tettegouche, and Grand Portage State Park . Waterfalls, rocky cliffs, and great views of the seemingly never-ending Lake Superior accompany the long drive.

Recreational activities like boating, fishing, and mountain biking are easily accessed along the route, including downhill skiing , snowshoeing, and ice-fishing throughout the long winters. For those not interested in automobile travel, the 300-plus-mile Superior Hiking Trail extends along the Minnesota shoreline and can only be traveled by foot.

Voyageurs National Park is a pristine wilderness area that combines natural beauty with history. This mainly backcountry park, accessed primarily by water or air, is a wonderful place for canoeing, boating, fishing , and other outdoor pursuits.

The park is remote and offers great opportunities to see wildlife , such as bears, moose, loons, and much more. Historically, this area was important during the fur trade, when the French-Canadian Voyageurs traveled these waters in huge birch bark canoes.

Adventures by boat and by land abound at Voyagers, and like the waterfront Wooden Frog Campground, some of the best campgrounds in Minnesota can be found lining the shores.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions in Voyageurs National Park, MN

The International Wolf Center near Ely, one of the best small towns in Minnesota , is an educational center that supports and promotes the survival of wolves. Hands-on exhibits, demonstrations of wolf tracking methods, and all kinds of information on wolves is presented.

Visitors learn about the natural history of wolves by observing the resident wolf pack. The center also offers a wide variety of programs and other visitor experiences, including Wolf Photography Workshops , Geocache Adventures, and overnight visits for groups of eight or more (call ahead to schedule).

Address: 1396 Hwy 169, Ely, Minnesota

Constructed between 1896 and 1905, the Minnesota State Capitol building recently underwent renovations to restore this historic structure back to its original glamour. Besides repairs to the exterior marble and restored furnishings of the interior, the 2013 to 2017 renovations also added more public space and accessibility for visitors.

Guided tours are available every day of the week except Sunday, and self-guided tours of areas like the Rotunda, the second "Grand" floor, and the Governor's Reception Room are always encouraged.

On the exterior main entrance of the Capitol, The Quadriga is a golden four-horse chariot statue and always a visitor favorite. Admission and visits are free but a donation is always appreciated.

Address: 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard, St. Paul, Minnesota

Located on the outskirts of St. Paul, in the suburb of Bloomington, is the Mall of America . When it opened in 1992, it was one of the largest malls in the United States. In addition to more than 520 shops and dozens of restaurants , the facility includes theaters, hotel accommodations, and other amusements .

More than 400 events happen at the mall each year, ranging from dance parties to Minnesota Viking fans' celebrations. Numerous "Stay and Shop" packages can be booked with nearby hotels.

Address: 60 E Broadway, Bloomington, Minnesota

The Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is one of the best family attractions in Minnesota. Here, you'll find everything for a complete day of fun for all ages. It's also budget-friendly; both are free to enter but donations are encouraged.

The zoo has a variety of animals from around the world, ranging from monkeys through to polar bears. One of the most enjoyable animal interactions is feeding the giraffes. Available to visitors of all ages, these gentle giants eat Romaine lettuce right out of your hand.

The zoo recently completed a 20-million-dollar expansion, with the addition of the new Como Harbor exhibit. This is the new home of seals and sea lions and features amphitheater-style seating in front of a 250,000-gallon tank complete with acrylic glass viewing windows. Two shows take place daily, and one of the star performers is Sparky the sea lion.

There is more to the park than the zoo. Be sure to swing by the conservatory to see a riot of heat-loving plants. A visit to this beautiful glass building makes you feel like you've stepped into the tropics. The Sunken Garden is a colorful area full of fragrant and beautiful plants that change throughout the seasons, and is an ideal place to snap a picture or two.

Hosting more than 700,000 visitors a year, the Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) has a wide range of art and attractions, all with free admission to explore. The collection at Mia features more than 89,000 artworks, and the permanent and temporary exhibits span everything from American modernism to ancient artifacts from around the world .

Among many other installations, visitors can check out Japanese and Korean art, decorative art and textiles, and the Doryphoros - one of four surviving Roman copies of an ancient Greek sculpture. Mia also hosts free daily public tours , family programs, and a four-day Art in Bloom festival each year in the spring.

Address: 2400 3rd Ave S, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park is located 20 miles northeast of Two Harbors on the North Shore of Lake Superior . It is home to Split Rock Lighthouse, which was built in 1910 to protect Lake Superior shipping. Visitors can tour the lighthouse , foghorn building, keeper's house, tower, and light.

Numerous hiking options line the park, which lead through forest, pebble beaches, and great viewpoints of the shoreline. Come winter, the trails at Split Rock become designated for fat tire biking . A cart-in campground is also available, with a few sites offering personal views of the lighthouse.

Address: 3755 Split Rock Lighthouse Road, Two Harbors, Minnesota

The Munsinger Clemens Gardens in St. Cloud are some of the summertime delights of the city. The Munsinger Gardens feature approximately 80,000 annual plants within a setting of trees, benches, swings, fountains, and ponds. The Clemens Gardens are known for having more than 1,100 rose bushes and an all-white garden devoted to white flowers and flowering shrubs.

Music in the Gardens , every other Sunday in the summer, is a fun way to enhance the experience, and the annual Art Fair in the Gardens is a popular event featuring artists and musicians from across the state.

Address: 1515 Riverside Drive SE, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Originally constructed between 1901 and 1905 as an aerial transfer bridge with a cable car, the bridge expanded into an entire roadway in 1929 and has been a prominent icon of Duluth ever since.

The bridge allows residents of Minnesota Point to reach the mainland and it's listed on the National Register of Historic Places . The Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge is operated 24 hours of the day, and watching it rise and lower for freight ships, sailboats, and tour boats is part of the spectacle.

Address: 601 S Lake Ave, Duluth, Minnesota

Read More: Top Things to Do in Duluth

As Minnesota's oldest state park, Itasca encompasses more than 32,000 acres of wildlands and lakes, including the headwaters of the Mississippi River . Outdoor recreation opportunities are easily found at this northern Minnesota state park, and visitor favorites include hiking trails, fire towers, and old-growth Red Pine forests .

The one-way Wilderness Drive and Bike Route makes a loop through the mainstay of the park, providing plenty of parking areas and trailheads along the way. Overnight accommodations at Itasca include developed and backpack-only campsites, various lodges, cabins, and the year-round Mississippi Headwaters Hostel .

The Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center and the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center are both good places to begin exploring.

Address: 36750 Main Park Drive, Park Rapids, Minnesota

The imposing St. Paul Cathedral in St. Paul was built in the early 1900s and is today the National Shrine of the Apostle Paul and a pilgrimage site. The design is Classical Renaissance, and the large interior can hold up to 3,000 people.

An active place of worship, the cathedral is open to the public for much of the day, though tourist visits are discouraged during Masses and other holy services. One-hour guided tours are available at 1pm, Tuesday through Friday, and are a good way to gain some historical perspective on the cathedral.

Address: 239 Selby Avenue, St. Paul, Minnesota

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in St. Paul, MN

No trip to Minnesota and Minneapolis in particular, would be complete without a stop in Minnehaha Park, one of the best parks in Minneapolis .

This 167-acre park is especially known for its famous waterfall, Minnehaha Falls , which plunges 53 feet off a limestone ledge. The base of the falls can be easily accessed via a walking trail or, if you prefer, they can be viewed from the top at a lookout. The falls are best viewed in the spring, when water levels in the creek are at their highest.

The park is a popular place to visit for families, especially in the summer when the wading ponds are a magnet for small children.

Other park attractions include extensive walking trails , three ornamental gardens , a dog park , and the pleasant Sea Salt restaurant (open seasonally).

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Minnesota tourism rebounds: here's where people visited.

Minnesota tourism continued its recovery in 2023 as the industry returned to pre-pandemic levels, according to projections released by the state's tourism agency.

Explore Minnesota tracked about 77 million trips throughout the state in 2019. After a drastic pandemic drop and slow but steady recovery, officials counted about 76.6 million visits in 2022. The numbers represent trips taken by both Minnesotans and out-of-state visitors.

Explore Minnesota projects a 2% increase in the number of trips taken in 2023 over the previous year. The agency's estimates show a modest increase in the number of visitors who traveled to and through central and southern Minnesota during the year and a slight decrease in the number of folks visiting the seven-county metro area and its northwest reaches.

The new study Explore Minnesota commissioned used geolocation data collected from smartphone apps between June 2022 and May 2023 — weeks before Taylor Swift drew tens of thousands to downtown Minneapolis and months before Caitlin Clark fever helped lead the Big Ten women's basketball tournament to sell out for the first time in its history.

"We're really excited," Explore Minnesota Communications and Media Relations Manager Chris Morgan said. "We definitely anticipate and are hopeful to see a year-to-year rise."

The Grand Casino in Mille Lacs County and Gull Lake were the top destinations for visitors to central Minnesota — each accounting for about 1 in 8 trips to the region. And in the metro area, nearly one-third of visitors went to the Mall of America.

The top destination in northeast Minnesota was Duluth and the Canal and Lincoln park areas. In northwest Minnesota, Lake of the Woods and Leech Lake drew the most visitors, while downtown Rochester and Treasure Island Casino were the largest draws in the southern region.

"We want people to not only visit one place in Minnesota but also to see the whole state," Morgan said. "One of our missions is to bring eyes and tourists to all destinations."

While the agency doesn't control when major pop stars or blockbuster sporting events take over the metro, Morgan said Explore Minnesota mostly concerns itself over how to get folks to stay in the state once they're already here.

"We know that events bring tourism," he said. "We want to elongate those stays."

Northeast Minnesota, which includes the North Shore and surrounding areas, saw a drop in traffic of about 6.4%.

Morgan hopes Explore Minnesota's new " Star of the North " campaign will lead to further boosts in tourism across the state and for some of the regions that saw a downturn in travel. The state Legislature set aside $25 million for the effort, which Morgan said is meant to draw tourists to every region in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

Explore Minnesota also estimates that people of color only account for about 11% of the trips taken in 2023. Black and brown vacationers have long worked to diversify outdoor spaces , regularly citing a lack of comfort in predominantly white and rural regions of the state .

That's why Morgan said the agency's latest ad blitz is looking to make sure it "celebrates all of Minnesota's diversity, cultures and its many heritages and communities."

After all, Morgan said, the more people travel, the more money flows through local economies.

"When we have more visitors, the local businesses benefit, the bigger businesses benefit," Morgan said. "The citizens of Minnesota benefit."

Eder Campuzano is a general assignment reporter for the Star Tribune.

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to the Midwest!

15 Things To Do In Minnesota: The Ultimate Bucket List

August 8, 2023 by //  by  Midwest Explored Leave a Comment

If you are looking for things to do in Minnesota then you’ve come to the right place.

Minnesota is a state in the Midwest that is known for being home to the Twin Cities and its abundance of lakes and parks.

There are so many fun things to do in Minnesota no matter what you’re interested in.

You’ll find vibrant cities, beautiful state and national parks, and some amazing scenic drives.

If you haven’t visited Minnesota yet, I am confident there is something on this list of Minnesota attractions that will pique your interest and have you packing your bags.

There is no shortage of fun and unique activities in Minnesota.

So, let’s take a look at 15 things to do in Minnesota to help you plan the ultimate bucket list.

Admire A Waterfall In Minneapolis

Minneapolis is one of the ‘Twin Cities’ in Minnesota and one of the major cities in the state.

Because it is a major city there are a ton of unique Minnesota attractions in Minneapolis.

One of my favorite things to do is go for a walk in Minnehaha Regional Park.

That is where you’ll find one of the best waterfalls in Minnesota , the Minnehaha Falls.

It is a 53 foot cascading waterfall that is very easy to get to.

Minneapolis also has a ton of other outdoor activities like the Chain of Lakes, Lake Harriet, and the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden.

You can also find traditional city activities like fun shops, tasty and unique restaurants, museums, and theaters.

If you are looking for things to do in Minneapolis you will easily be able to find something that interests you.

Visiting Duluth Is One Of The Fun Things To Do In Minnesota

Duluth is a city in Minnesota that has a lot of history.

Fun things to do in Duluth include the Lake Superior Rail Road Museum, tour the SS William A. Irvin, or step back in time at the Glensheen Mansion.

If you are looking for parks, Duluth has those too.

It is a port city on Lake Superior, so you’ll find beaches, city parks, and more along the shore of the lake.

One of the best things to do in Minnesota is the North Shore Scenic Drive.

It is a scenic road that takes you through different parts of Northern Minnesota, and part of it is in Duluth.

From Duluth you can even drive to Two Harbors or Grand Portage if you want to see more scenic views.

Shop At The Mall Of America

The Mall of America is located in Bloomington and is one of the best things to do in Minnesota.

It opened in 1992 and has been one of the most iconic American shopping experiences since.

People travel from all over the world to spend a few days exploring the over 300 stores in the massive mall.

On average, 40 million people a year visit the Mall of America.

Throughout the year they hold over 400 entertainment events like concerts, celebrity appearances, and more.

It is one of the must-see Minnesota attractions.

In Southern Minnesota, you can find the city of Rochester.

Rochester is probably best known for being the birthplace and current home of the world-renowned Mayo Clinic.

The Mayo Clinic is a healthcare organization that is known for providing some of the best and most advanced healthcare treatments in the world.

The grounds of the Mayo Clinic also include some beautiful historic buildings and is a very pretty part of Rochester to take a stroll.

There are other things to do in Rochester too.

You can tour the 20th-century house museum at the Plummer House which features period furnishings.

Another popular Minnesota attraction in Rochester is the Rochester Art Center.

Visiting Stillwater Is One Of The Best Things To Do In Minnesota

If you want to visit a charming small town in Minnesota , head to Stillwater.

Despite being a small town, there are tons things of to do in Stillwater.

Stillwater is frequently voted one of America’s Most Picturesque Small Towns and you’ll quickly see why when you visit.

You can stroll down the Historic Main Street and find unique shops and award-winning restaurants.

The town is also perfectly situated to be the hub for many outdoor activities no matter what time of year.

There are beautiful gardens in the Spring, outdoor festivals and watersports in the Summer, beautiful Fall foliage in the Fall, and skiing and snowboarding in the Winter.

Minneapolis Institute Of Art

The Minneapolis Institute of Art is one of the most popular places to visit in Minnesota.

It is one of the largest art museums in the United States. And one of the best things to do in Minneapolis!

With over 90,000 works of art, over 5,000 years of human history can be found within its walls.

Of course, the collection of 90,000 items isn’t always on view, but you can expect to spend a solid afternoon or even a day walking through the museum.

The collection is also one of the biggest in the US and includes works by Rembrandt, van Gogh, Renoir, Monet, Degas, John Singer Sargent, Picasso, and so many more.

If you love art and want to see pieces by some of the most famous artists in the world, head to the Minneapolis Institute of Art.

Brainerd For Outdoor Fun

Brainerd is one of the best places in Minnesota to enjoy outdoor fun with the whole family, all year long.

Things to do in Brainerd include water sports on Lake Superior, winter sports like skiing on the mountains nearby, biking, and some of the best hiking in Minnesota!

One of the things that makes Brainerd one of the best places for things to do in Minnesota is that it is a small town full of resorts and lodges.

The town knows it’s a perfect spot for outdoorsy families, so you’ll find over 20 resorts and lodges that are perfect places to stay while you enjoy the area.

All the resorts and lodges have something unique to offer, so you can easily find something that suits you and your family’s needs.

Tour The Brewery In Red Wing

The top things to do in Red Wing is absolutely the Red Wing Brewery

Red Wing is becoming known as one of the best places to visit in Minnesota if you are interested in craft brews.

The Red Wing Brewery has been open since 1951 and is a staple activity in the city.

You can sample the local brews, grab something to eat, and learn more about the local history all in one spot.

Red Wing is also home to the famous Duluth Trading Company and the Red Wing Shoe Store.

It is a city that is full of unique Minnesota attractions.

Mahkato is another super cute small town in Minnesota, but it is growing bigger every year.

One of the best things to do in Mankato is take a walking tour through town.

The city has a growing arts scene, an interesting history, a thriving restaurant scene, and a beautiful public garden.

You’ll be able to stroll the city and stop in unique boutiques, sample local brews at the breweries, or admire the historic architecture.

Mahkato is also known for being a part of the author Laura Ingalls Wilder’s history.

If you are a fan of the author, you’ll recognize Mahkato as it is where Charles Ingalls made some of his deliveries.

It is a unique city in Minnesota with a unique history and culture.

Some of the best events in Minnesota take place here!

Boundary Waters Is One Of The Best Things To Do In Minnesota

One of the most unique things to do in Minnesota is visit the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

This unique wilderness area is over 1,000,000 acres of natural wilderness area nestled in the Lake Superior National Forest.

National Geographic Traveler has named it one of the “50 Places of A Lifetime”, which means it should absolutely be added to your Minnesota travel bucket list.

It is a beautiful part of the state that is on the Canadian border. And one of the most spectacular things to do especially during fall in Minnesota!

You can go hiking and biking and there are plenty of places where you can enjoy water sports.

Depending on when you visit you may even be able to get a glimpse of the Northern Lights at night.

Alexandria For Lots Of Minnesota Attractions

There are plenty of fun things to do in Alexandria Minnesota.

Whether you are looking for family fun or a romantic getaway.

If you are looking for a more romantic Midwest getaway , there are wineries, breweries, tasty restaurants, and unique shops you can explore.

For those planning a more family-orientated trip, there is an indoor waterpark, an amusement park, farms, festivals, and more.

Alexandria is also great for some outdoor fun.

Nearby you’ll find a few parks with hiking and biking trails, lakes, and the Glacial Ridge Scenic Byway.

This is one Minnesota town where the options are endless.

Voyageurs National Park

Voyageurs National Park is one of the coolest National Parks in the Midwest .

In the park, you’ll find three lakes, the Rainy, Kabetogama, and Namakan lakes.

On all of these lakes, you can enjoy traditional water sports like kayaking, boating, and swimming.

You can also hike to see some waterfalls like the Kettle Falls.

One of the best things to do in Voyageurs National Park is visit the Ellsworth Rock Garden.

It was created by sculptor Jack Ellsworth and features abstract sculptures scattered around an area of the park.

Voyageurs is easily one of the best places to visit in Minnesota.

Visit St. Paul The Capital Of Minnesota

St. Paul is the second city in Minnesota’s “Twin Cities”.

It is also the capital city of Minnesota.

That means you’ll find tons of activities in Minnesota while you visit the capital.

You can explore the Science Museum of Minnesota, learn about the state at the Minnesota History Center, or tour one of the many historic sites and buildings.

St. Paul is also a great place to visit Minnesota in the Fall .

The city has several festivals in the Fall as well as beautiful foliage.

You can’t go wrong visiting Minnesota’s capital city as there are lots of things to do in St. Paul that everyone will love!

There are so many things to do in St Paul!

Take The North Shore Scenic Drive

If you have time, consider taking the North Shore Scenic Drive.

Possibly better known as Minnesota Highway 61, it is a beautiful way to see the Northern part of Minnesota.

You can start the drive just outside of Duluth and travel a little over 148 miles along the highway to the town of Grand Portage.

This puts you right near the Canadian border.

Along the drive, you’ll pass through charming small towns, find scenic overlooks, and get to experience a stunning part of the state.

And you will discover some of the best camping in Minnesota as well!

Stroll Through The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden

The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is a large park in Minneapolis that is a very popular Minnesota attraction.

Located near the Walker Art Center, the 11-acre park has over 20 unique sculptures.

It is entirely free to walk through the garden and it is typically open daily from 6 am to midnight.

The sculpture garden is easily one of the coolest free things to do in Minnesota.

As you walk around, you’ll find some incredibly large sculptures and every one of them is unique.

If you want to learn more about the pieces as you walk around, the garden has a website that gives you more information on each piece.

Packing List When Discovering Things To Do In Minnesota

If you will be traveling, either by plane or by car to Minnesota, here are some  tips on how to pack lightly.

A  concealed travel pouch  may be one of the most important items you bring along when searching for things to do in Minnesota

It is  always   important  to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

This  unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is  lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

You can place it under your clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with RFID protection, as I do, these  RFID sleeves are the perfect solution.

This configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet. 

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an  external charging battery .

This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery  is  the exact one  I carry with me on all of my trips.

It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone as I have. And wow is it fast!

My daughter gifted me with this  FugeTek selfie stick and tripod   setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking photos.

You will want to bring your own  refillable water bottle  with you. 

I never leave home on a trip without my   Bobble filtration bottle . The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

And here are the carbon filter replacements.

Perhaps you are traveling a long distance and packing space is a premium in your suitcase, or in your car.

Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle  would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all. 

If you have been wondering what to do in Minnesota, I hope you found this list helpful.

Minnesota is such a unique and often overlooked state in the Midwest.

Have you been to any of these cool Minnesota attractions? Or is there one that has piqued your interest?

I’d love to hear about it in the comments!

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As a powerful extension of the Explore Minnesota brand, exploreminnesota.com  garners nearly 8 million sessions annually. Our website inspires and connects travelers with a vast amount of searchable travel information throughout Minnesota.

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The Extranet is Explore Minnesota's database of tourism businesses and events and is connected to ExploreMinnesota.com through an API. Free business and event listings are available to attractions, accommodations, eating and drinking establishments, events and tourism promotion organizations such as chambers of commerce and visitors' bureaus.  

Click here to view the  Extranet Partner Manual .

Access the Explore Minnesota Extranet  here.

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ExploreMinnesota.com  features a mobile-first, content-centric design to inspire travelers to discover all there is to see and do across our great state. Through this website, you will be able to reach highly qualified and engaged leisure visitors through advertising opportunities.

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Explore Minnesota produces editorial content for print publications and exploreminnesota.com. Information on travel news about destinations and attractions, and suggestions for story ideas are welcome. Please send ideas to Devon Cox . 

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The Explore Minnesota website feed is a free tool that allows partners to enrich their own website with Minnesota travel information pulled seamlessly from Explore Minnesota's extensive Extranet database. 

Feeds have an updated look and feel to match the new ExploreMinnesota.com website and are able to be built by city (cities), region, or statewide geographic parameters. 

Feeds can be built on upcoming festivals/events or to promote attractions and lodging options and can be customized in dimension and size to suit the partner's own website layout. 

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Tourism up in Minnesota with Grand Casino, Mall of America as top destinations

By Beret Leone

April 12, 2024 / 6:44 AM CDT / CBS Minnesota

MINNEAPOLIS —  From the Great Lakes to the great shopping, Explore Minnesota says more people are noticing how great Minnesota is.

"Looking at our numbers, we can confidently say we're back to pre-pandemic levels," Explore Minnesota Communications and Media Relations Manager Chris Morgan said. 

According to a new report released by Explore Minnesota, trips to the state are up 1.5%. New numbers from the state tourism department show most visitors come from neighboring states, but not all. 

"People are really excited about Minnesota," Morgan said. "We're seeing Minnesota starting to gather some national attention. We've been listed on some really amazing publications, you know, the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times have recently listed Minnesota as one of the best places to travel in 2024 citing some of our great attractions."

Grand Casino, Mall of America, downtown Minneapolis, Rochester and Duluth are all top destinations, according to the report.

READ MORE: Looking for a summer vacation spot? Voyageurs National Park has plenty to offer

"Everyone is seeing kind of this general trend that people just love Duluth,"  Wild State Cider  Director of Marketing Jane Jandl said.  

Jandl and her team are gearing up for their taproom's busy season. Since opening up in 2019, the cidery has seen tremendous growth, with a nearly 300% increase from 2020 to 2022. However, when it comes to the taproom, Jandl says attendance is back to pre-pandemic levels. 

"It's really cool to be a part of this vibe that has been cultivated, putting visitors first and really making sure that folks enjoy their time when they come here," Jandl said. "Whether it's coming to our cidery or going to another local brewery or experiencing our parks or, you know, just experiencing a Lake Superior down on the shore. People really have a good time when they come here."

According to Visit Duluth , the city's tourism tax is up 16.6% since 2022. And in the last year, there was an increase of .4% despite a mild winter. In 2023, 21 of 23 neighborhoods saw positive growth. It's a trend that aligns with statewide data; showing travelers want more local experiences.

"Instead of focusing on what is in Minnesota, we want to ask a new question: How can I be a part of Minnesota?" Morgan said.

Morgan said it's a buzz Explore Minnesota is capitalizing on with its new Star of the North  marketing campaign. The legislative-funded $25 million project aims to get people to travel and move to the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

"When it comes to tourism, obviously, in the past handful of years it's been up and down," Morgan said. "But with this new trending back up, you know, we're really excited to tell the story of what it's like in Minnesota."

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Beret Leone is a native Minnesotan who joined the WCCO team as a reporter in September 2022 - and she's thrilled be back home in the Twin Cities! Beret grew up in Chaska and graduated from Bethel University.

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