Minneapolis-Saint Paul, The Twin Cities

November 6 2009 by Claudia Kunkel

Minneapolis-Stone-Bridge-wr.jpg"The Land of 10,000 Lakes" is where you will frequently hear the greeting "Velkommen" or "Welcome" in Norwegian and is home to the Twin Cities of Minneapolis-Saint Paul.

The Minneapolis-Saint Paul cities offer all the culture, shopping, theatre, arts and sports that you would expect from any large metropolitan area but without some of the other hassles. There is a great vibe that surrounds these cities many unique and interesting things to do while visiting.

Starting with the arts, Minneapolis is home to the Walker Art Centre, considered one of the world's best contemporary art museums. In addition, they also have an outdoor sculpture garden that features some fantastic sculptures including a few by Frank Gehry that is definitely worth seeing. If you enjoy theater, you'll need to pay a visit to new Guthrie Theater, featuring both classic and contemporary plays. If you're a fan of birding, this is a great bird watching venue considering the urban setting. Spend a day simply wandering the art center and the outdoor gardens. It is worth the trip.

Families and children activities abound in the area. How could it not be with the world's largest mall, Mall of America, nearby; a choice of any professional sports with four pro teams and just a "few" 10,000 lakes to boat, fish, swim and enjoy. The St. Anthony Falls and Stone Arch Bridge is located just northeast of downtown Minneapolis and is another family friendly place to get a great view of the downtown skyline. The natural waterfall on the upper Mississippi River is a popular place for hiking, biking and an afternoon picnic with the family.

Stopping next in Saint Paul, you will find some of the most beautifully restored Victorian homes in the country. Saint Paul is also home to the birthplace and home of the great American novelist, F. Scott Fitzgerald. His home is now a National Literary Landmark and can be seen in the Ramsey Hill neighborhood of Saint Paul.

Another interesting fact about the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area is that it is home to some famous celebrities. Prince, Jesse Ventura (you remember him don't you?), Al Franken and T. R. Knight have at one time or another resided in the area. One of my favorites, Garrison Keillor, grew up just north of Minneapolis and shares his insight into growing up in Minnesota through "Prairie Home Companion" on NPR. And who could forget Mary Tyler Moore? There's a bronze statue of Mary throwing her hat in the air in downtown Minneapolis; if you feel you need to, you can drive by her first apartment where she lived with Rhoda and Phyllis. Just resist the urge to stop in and say hi.

Vi sees senere (see you later)!

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