Five Reasons To Visit Minnesota For Spring Break
The St. Croix River Valley
www.saintcroixriver.com
A collection of small towns in one of the most picturesque parts of the Midwest make this area prime for your vacation. The quaint downtowns of Winona, Wabasha and Red Wing have everything you need; there are plenty of restaurants, adorable hotels, shopping, art galleries, etc. You're far away from the city, but you'll never be bored. The real charm comes from the surrounding area. The bluffs, the river gorge and the seemingly endless forests make it ideal for hiking and biking, especially if we have an early spring. If there is still snow on the ground, there are skiing options and other cooler activities. Spend the week relaxing, or get out and enjoy the land. Either way it'll be a trip to remember.
The Joy Of Two Downtowns
St. Paul: www.visitsaintpaul.com
Minneapolis: www.downtownmpls.com
Now connected by light rail, the beautiful downtowns of both Minneapolis and St. Paul have never been more accessible. Having two distinctly different city centers so close to one another offers experiences unlike any other metro in the country. Wander the theater district in Minneapolis, get dinner at one of the award-winning restaurants in the area and catch a show. Get lost in the excitement and busy bustle you come to expect from the big city. In downtown St. Paul, the historic skyscrapers and walkable streets are ideal for sightseeing. With the Science Museum, History Center and Children's Museum, all are within walking distance. Or, as you are in the State of Hockey, get tickets for a Wild game. There are plenty of stops between Minneapolis and St. Paul. You'll pass ethnic districts like Little Mekong, full of amazing food and cultural attractions. You can see the Vikings stadium slowly rising into the sky. You can wander through neighborhoods each with something unique to offer before ending up east, or west, in the bustle of downtown. Whatever you're vice, these two cities have got you covered.
Tax-Free Shopping
Minnesota is a shopping mecca. Of course, there is the Mall of America, currently growing even larger, that can keep you occupied for days. Every store you could hope for is housed in the country's largest mall. But even more special, and much less of a hassle, are the local boutiques and storefronts, and the amazing local designers that are often featured there. Stores like Primp and Karma for girls and Phenom and BlackBlue for guys means for this spring break you're not only going to look your very best, but you won't have to pay any taxes when you splurge.
Duluth Lets You Leave The World Behind
www.visitduluth.com
Duluth has offered travelers a great vacation for years now. There is plenty to do inside the city. Go on the brewery tour and be amazed at the selection, and quality, of Duluth's breweries. They have everything. Stay in luxury, do some shopping, drink beer… whatever you like. As the gateway to the north, Duluth is also a great hub for camping. There are countless sights in the great woods of the north, so if you're looking for a true getaway, truly leaving everything behind and really taking a break for spring break, this is the trip for you. Stay in the city and enjoy some of the area's restaurants and bars, or drive along the Lake Superior toward the great beyond. At night, kick back and relax in your tent, or at one of the area's amazing hotels, inns or lodges. This is a true vacation.
Drinking & Dining
It's no longer a secret that the Twin Cities has one of the best dining scenes in the country. Whether you want a four-star experience or just a quick bite, you'll never be disappointed. Even dives like Half Time Rec are getting in on the fun, adding an excellent menu to its already storied bar. You want to enjoy yourself on spring break, and Minnesota's restaurants want to make sure you do. And when you want to imbibe a little, you're covered there as well. The craft cocktail craze has certainly swept through the state, but you won't have to worry about the pretense that often accompanies a well-crafted drink. The craft beer boom has also found root here, and you could go to a different brewery every day of your vacation and only scratch the surface. We appreciate the finer things here in Minnesota, so if the best food and drink around is important to you, you're in the right place.
Related: Students On Spring Break Make The Most Of April Snow
Adrian Schramm is a resident Saint Paul writer with a passion for all things local. Through his work with Saint Paul Almanac and Minneapolis Examiner at Examiner.com, as well as in the kitchens of bars and restaurants around town, he has discovered what truly makes the Twin Cities tick.
