If you haven’t yet visited the Jack-O’-Lantern Spectacular at the Minnesota Zoo, you’re in for a treat! This annual event is absolutely amazing, featuring over 8,000 pumpkins, including intricately carved real ones. My husband and I went on a date night outing there and spent a full hour and a half walking through—and that’s just […]
The Fair on 4: Fair Food & Fun All Year Long + Giveaway!
Looking for a way to enjoy all the flavors and fun of the Minnesota State Fair without the crowds (or the admission price)? We recently discovered The Fair on 4 at Mall of America, and it might just be our new favorite date night spot. We made so many funny memories here – like competing […]
My Minnesota State Fair 2025 Tips & Hacks
Surviving & Thriving at the Minnesota State Fair: Mom-Approved Tips We did the Minnesota State Fair this week, and let me tell you—it was a blast but also a little wild! If you’re heading out with kids (or honestly, even just by yourself), here are some mom-tested, mom-approved tips to make the most of your […]
Free & Fascinating: Explore the Northwest Airlines History Center in Bloomington
The Northwest Airlines History Center is a hidden gem for aviation enthusiasts, located on the 3rd floor of the Crowne Plaza AIRE hotel in Bloomington, Minnesota—just minutes from the Mall of America. Even better? Admission is completely FREE! We visited during a recent open house. It’s a small yet fascinating aviation museum that memorializes Northwest […]
Free Family Find: Schubert Club Music Museum in St. Paul, Minnesota
We just visited the FREE Schubert Club Music Museum in St. Paul, Minnesota, and I have to share about it! Okay, picture this: your kids are happily banging out rhythms on a big gamelan (don’t worry, they’re supposed to), twirling around under a giant tornado of instruments hanging from the ceiling, and then, somehow, you’re […]
A Hidden Midwest Gem: Lost Island Waterpark & Themepark in Waterloo, Iowa
A Hidden Midwest Gem: Lost Island Waterpark & Themepark in Waterloo, Iowa If you’re looking for a tropical escape or a theme park adventure without leaving the Midwest, Lost Island in Waterloo, Iowa is calling your name! Just 3 to 3.5 hours south of the Twin Cities, this destination includes two parks—a waterpark and a […]
Discovering Lanesboro, Minnesota: A Small-Town Getaway with Big Charm
Why Lanesboro, Minnesota Should Be Your Next Small-Town Escape Have you been to Lanesboro, Minnesota? If not, you’re missing out on one of the sweetest small-town getaways in the state. Tucked away in the scenic Root River Valley, Lanesboro is a hidden gem that’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to slow down and […]
Central Park in Maple Grove: A Must-Visit for Families
Central Park in Maple Grove: One of the Best Playgrounds We’ve Visited Now that my kids are teens, we’ve been to an abundance of playgrounds over the years—and Central Park in Maple Grove still stands out as one of the best. After even just our first visit here in 2016, it made a lasting impression. […]
Healthy Family Dining at Mill Valley Kitchen (& Kids Eat Free on Sundays!)
Twin Cities families! If you’re looking for a place to take the family for a wholesome, delicious meal without breaking the bank, you have to check out Mill Valley Kitchen in St. Louis Park and Rochester. We went there recently on a Sunday night, and it was such a win for everyone. Why do I […]
Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store: A Must-Stop Sweet Spot in Jordan, MN
Have you been to Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store lately? They opened early for the 2025 season so you can shop now! It’s a unique experience you don’t want to miss. At Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store, also known as Jim’s Apple Farm in Jordan, MN, they have 3-D artwork and have been known for having the […]