3 minute read
How to Enjoy a Spring Break in Minnesota (Staycation Tips
Elizabeth Roubik
By March in Minnesota, people begin to resent the cold and snow. Everyone is leaping at the opportunity to escape the winter for a week-long vacation. However, what if a trip is not possible for you during spring break? Lucky for you, there are many fun things to do in the great state of Minnesota, and there are lots of activities that will help you take advantage of all that Minnesota has to offer. Here are a few ideas that will make spring break in Minnesota still feel like a vacation.
Museums
Whether you are interested in art, history, science, or SPAM, there is a museum for you. All over the state, there are museums dedicated to certain interest areas. Some of the most well known locally are the Science Museum, Minnesota History Center, Minneapolis Institute of Art, and of course, the Bell Museum on campus. However, if you are looking for a more unique museum experience, there are plenty of other museums that satisfy nearly any interest.
Coffee Shops
As college students, I am sure that most of us are very familiar with coffee shop study sessions, but do you ever just go to relax? There are hundreds of local coffee shops in and around the city, and spring break is the best time to go and find your favorite. While Bordertown Coffee and Surdyk’s Cafe are classic options at the U of M, spring break is the time to broaden your horizons and find the best coffee in tow n.
Music
Did you know that The Replacement’s “Skyway” was written as an ode to Minneapolis’ indoor aboveground tunnel system? Th ere is lots of music history around the city that you can learn about in tours of historical music landmarks. For Prince fans, take a tour of Paisley Park to see first-hand how Prince created, produced and performed in this private estate. If you love Bob Dylan, visit the Bob Dylan mural in central Minneapolis for some great photos. Additionally, there is a wide variety of live music in the Twin Cities. For you indie music fans, there are plenty of open mic nights and local artists that perform at various cafes or restaurants, so make sure to check out the local music scene.
Parks
While March weather in the state is unpredictable, parks in Minnesota never disappoint. Even when there are snow-covered trees and all the water is frozen, the parks are a sight to see. One of the most well known in the city is Minnehaha Park, home to Minnehaha Falls. This park radiates beauty in the winter, and the frozen falls are always a hit among locals and tourists. Mill Ruins Park, while less known, is still worthy of a visit. This park lies along the Mississippi River and showcases the abandoned flour mills that used to stand in its place. It is a great opportunity to take a nice walk in the spring. Nicollet Island Park is another great area to enjoy a stroll in the springtime. This island showcases amazing views of the city while still separated from the urban environment.
Shopping
Even though shopping in Minnesota is not a very unique experience, spring break is the best time to treat yourself, and many places make that possible. There are a plethora of malls in the state, but there is one that stands out. The Mall of America, the most well-known mall in the country, has lots of shopping options and activities. It houses nearly any store you could ever want to visit, as well as the theme park and sea world that make it unique. While there are many malls to visit, there are also lots of thrift stores if you are looking for something one of a kind.
With all the activities that Minnesota has to offer, I can promise you will not be bored this spring break!
