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What To Do With One Day In Minnesota

Minnesota, the land of 10,000 lakes, actually contains over 11,000 lakes and almost as many things to do. Because Minnesota can also brag about being the 12th largest state in the United States, there exists something fun for every type of person. Although over half of the population of Minnesota lives in either of the Twin Cities, adventures await in all corners of the state. Enjoy nature, culture, amusement or just some great shopping over the span of one day in Minnesota.

Green Bay Packers v Minnesota Vikings
(credit: Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)

Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome
900 S. 5th St.
Minneapolis, MN 55415
(612) 332-0386
www.msfc.com

Are you ready for some football? What was once considered a small market team has become a football giant with an entire state supporting them. The Minnesota Vikings are playing there last season in the Metrodome (now Mall of America Field), finishing out a decade of sports entertainment before the giant arena is demolished. Events are scheduled throughout the fall and winter, including public walking tours of the grand facility. Learn about the history of the Dome; the former site of Twins baseball and both a former World Series and Super Bowl XXVI venue.

North Shore Scenic Drive
Canal Park Drive
Duluth, MN 55802
(800) 438-5884
www.byways.org

If you find yourself in northern Minnesota, a scenic drive along the shores of Lake Superior is the best way to spend your day. The best way to enjoy the area is by bicycle. Biking along downtown Duluth and the miles of bike trails that make up the North Shore invites a way to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Lake Superior itself, the world's largest freshwater lake, is enhanced by the Lakewalk, a beautifully paved area that leads up to the Scenic Drive. Spend one day or several exploring this beautiful pocket of Minnesota.

Eagle Church
(credit: CBS)

National Eagle Center
50 Pembroke Ave.
Wabasha, MN 55981
(651) 565-4989
www.nationaleaglecenter.org

If your day will be spent in southern Minnesota, spending an afternoon along the Mississippi River and touring the quaint town of Wabasha is the best way to spend your time. Southern Minnesota and the upper Mississippi River make up the largest concentration of bald eagle nests in the country. This majestic bird, an important part of American heritage and history, is studied and honored at the National Eagle Center. Several eagles live in the center and the history of eagles in Native American folklore and early America is discussed at the center. Check out the center, located in the beautiful downtown area of Wabasha along the river.

Related:  DNR Removes Grey Wolves, Bald Eagles From Endangered Species List

Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
1750 Hennepin Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55403
(612) 375-7600
www.walkerart.org

Although it may be a total tourist thing to do, the Sculpture Garden is a landmark destination when visiting Minnesota. The "Spoonbridge and Cherry" sculpture that resides in the Garden has become a symbol of the art scene in Minnesota. This park is a remarkable attraction on the edge of downtown Minneapolis and a must-see for anyone with one day to spend in the city. Admission is free and when weather permits, there is a fantastic artist-designed miniature golf course on the premises as well.

NickelodeonUniverse_LOGO_200
Mall of America
60 E. Broadway
Bloomington, MN 55425
(952) 883-8800
www.mallofamerica.com

Not interested in nature, culture or sports? Spend a day shopping at the Mall of America. Mall of America, cleverly referred to as MOA by the locals, is one of the country's largest malls. MOA features over 500 retail stores, an indoor aquarium, miniature golf course and tons of dining options. In the center of the mall resides Nickelodeon Universe, the largest indoor theme park in the country. This is surely an adventure that you can spend an entire day enjoying.

Related: Best Shopping Malls In Minnesota

Andrea Wodele is a freelance writer who has lived in the Twin Cities for eight years. She loves covering all things Minnesota and her work can be found on Examiner.com.

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