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 […]
Road-Tripping I-35: Hidden Gems Between Duluth and the Twin Cities
Stops Worth Slowing Down For From Duluth to Minneapolis/St. Paul If you’ve ever driven the familiar stretch of I-35 between Duluth and Minneapolis/St. Paul, chances are you’ve zoomed right past some incredible places without even knowing it. But tucked along this well-traveled route you’ll find surprising museums, rugged state parks, cozy cafés, and rich Minnesota […]
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 […]
Sweet Surprises at Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop in Spring Lake Park
Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop is now open in Spring Lake Park, Minnesota! It was previously Blue Sun Soda Shop, which our family had visited many times over the years. It was a fun candy and soda shop before, with locations also in Bloomington and Stillwater. But Blue Sun just upped its game at the Spring […]
Sweet Adventures at Northern Soda Company in New Brighton, MN
If you love craft soda, retro vibes, and a fun place to hang out, you have to check out Northern Soda Company in New Brighton, MN! Yes, there’s a hidden gem in New Brighton, and I’ve been lucky enough to visit twice—once with my husband and once with my kids. It’s a great destination for […]