Wander Minnesota: Day Trip To Jordan

We're in the prime days of autumn now, with apple picking is in full swing, as are many harvest festivals. Best of all, the leaves are approaching full autumn colors now. If you're looking for an easy day trip from the Cities, with beautiful views and shops to browse through, one suggestion would be the historic downtown area of Jordan, near the Minnesota River Valley.

With just one stoplight and a handful of city blocks, Jordan is small enough to easily stroll about, and has plenty of lovely historic buildings to explore.

There are several antique shops, including LB Antiques (pictured above), the Jordan Junker, Tri City Cellars, Jordan Junker and the Corner Peddler. Be sure to check ahead for open hours—some have regular store hours, others are open only on specific weekends.

You can even combine your antique shopping with some coffee and/or ice cream at Carasim Coffee and Hub Antiques.

If you've got kids tagging along, there's even a shop for them: Zap Arcade and Hot Comics, a vintage/retro video arcade and comic book store.

You can grab a bite to eat at the Jordan Feed Mill, where, if it's on the menu, try the vomacka—a traditional Czech creamy potato and dill soup.

You can do some flower and gift shopping at the Vinery, just steps from the Jordan Feed Mill.

If you're a fan of smoked sausage, don't miss the chance to visit Pekarna Meats, a fourth-generation family owned meat shop that still uses recipes the original Pekarnas used when the shop opened over 100 years ago.

You could make more than a day trip out of it by booking a room at the Nicolin Mansion, right on Jordan's main street. Over 125 years old, the Nicolin Mansion is on the National Register of Historic Places, and each stay includes a gourmet three-course breakfast.

Sadly, one thing you won't be able to do anytime soon is stop for a glass of ale at what was supposed to be the Jordan Brewery. This building was originally built as a brewery over 100 years ago. It's gone through several different iterations over the decades, but was recently in plans to be brought back to its original purpose, when the heavy spring rains this year caused a devastating mudslide. It's not clear at this point if the building can be used, or if the adjacent hillside can be made safe. And what a shame that is, when you look at it:

There are several apple orchards nearby where you can pick (or simply buy) fresh apples. But only one of them can also make this boast:

Jim's Apple Farm, just a couple of miles south of downtown Jordan on Highway 169, is open seasonally (right now through Thanksgiving weekend), and lives up to its reputation as a huge source of all things candy.

There are current and vintage candies, gourmet and silly, giant and miniature. Also, 155 kinds of root beer. In other words, something for everyone, adult or child.

What else is happening in our state? Be sure to check out the 10 p.m. Sunday night WCCO newscasts, where you can learn more in the weekly segment, Finding Minnesota.