Stay and Play 2021

2021

STAY & PLAY

FUN ON THE GROW

DISCOVER THE ARBORETUM

WAGERING A GOOD TIME

PLACE YOUR BETS AT CANTERBURY PARK

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

VALLEYFAIR Ready to celebrate

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Experience

“Come visit Jordan’s historic downtown for antique shops, winery, craft brewery, gifts, local art, specialty meats, professional services, arcade, upholstery and furniture refurbishing, fine dining and overnight luxury stays.

May 2021 Cinco de Mayo Celebration CityWide Garage Sale Memorial Day Services

June 2021 Celebrate Jordan

July 2021 Scott County Fair

August 2021

Walk to the Sand Creek waterfalls and serene Mill Pond in Lagoon Park. Just outside of town, you will find Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store, apple orchards, draft horse farms, riding stables, state park trails, campgrounds & a vineyard.

With small-town appeal, Historic Jordan is a great place to spend the day or perhaps to Live - Shop - Dine.”

Scott Carver Threshers Harvest Festival Firefighters Golf Tournament

September 2021 Miss Jordan Pageant Jordan Classic Cycle and Car Cruise Heimatfest St. John’s Fall Festival

October 2021 Jordan High School Homecoming Jordan Business Trick or Treat

December 2021 Jordan Commercial Club Jordandazzle Parade and Christmas Tree Lighting at Pekarna Park

February 2022 Jordan Commercial Club-Mill Pond Masters Ice Golf Tournament

April 2022 Food Truck Festival

Check out the City of Jordan on Facebook!

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Serving your community for over 20 years!

2021 • Stay & Play • Page 3

i ndex Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22-23 Welcome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 FEATURES Canterbury Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Chanhassen Dinner Theatres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Chaska Curling Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Mall of America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Minnesota Horse and Hunt Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Minnesota Valley Wildlife Refuge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Mystic Lake Casino Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-13 Renaissance Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Rhythm on the Rails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 SandVenture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Town Team Baseball. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Valleyfair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 FOR MORE INFORMATION Belle Plaine Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . . (952) 873-4295 Bloomington Convention & Visitors Bureau . . . . . (952) 858-8500 Minneapolis Regional Chamber of Commerce . . (612) 370-9100 Prior Lake Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . (952) 440-1000 Savage Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(952) 894-8876 Shakopee Chamber & Visitors Bureau . . . . . . . . . (952) 445-1660 SouthWest Metro Chamber of Commerce . . . . . .(952) 474-3233 St. Paul Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (651) 223-5000 STAY & PLAY 2021 Editors: Rachel Minske, Mark Olson and Michael Strasburg Writers: Maddie DeBilzan, Amy Felegy, Jaimee Hood, Audrey Kennedy, Eric Kraushar, Tom Schardin and Christine Schuster.

2021

For advertising information about Stay & Play, contact Southwest Newspapers, 12931 Eagle Creek Blvd. Savage, MN 55378. Call Laurie Hartmann at 952-345-6878 or email lhartmann@ swnewsmedia.com. Copyright 2021.

FUN ON Printed in the U.S.A. THE GROW

STAY & PLAY

DISCOVER THE ARBORETUM

ON THE COVER: Valleyfair will be home this summer to what it’s calling a cultural celebration for Grand Carnivale.

CREDIT: Submitted photo by Valleyfair

WAGERING A GOOD TIME

PLACE YOUR BETS AT CANTERBURY PARK

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

VALLEYFAIR Ready to celebrate

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JUST IN CASE: EMERGENCY/MEDICAL PHONE NUMBERS Medical, fire, police. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 911 Fairview Ridges Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (952) 892-2000 Fairview Southdale Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (952) 924-5000 Methodist Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (952) 993-5000 Mayo Clinic Health System, New Prague. . . . . . . (952) 758-4431 Ridgeview Medical Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (952) 442-2191 St. Francis Regional Medical Center. . . . . . . . . . . (952) 403-3000 MN Poison Control System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 (800) 222-1222

Page 4 • Stay & Play • 2021

w elcome

The Minnesota Valley Community Band packs the park for River City Days. Small town festivals are all part of the fun in the southwest metro.

Adventure awaits in the south metro

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he Minnesota River Valley is a special place to live and work, but also to play.

When it comes to entertainment, it’s hard to beat the southwest metro.

Step back in time to celebrate ye olde days at the Renaissance Festival.

Head to Canterbury Park to try your luck at the track.

Slide a stone down the ice in the growing sport of curling.

Enjoy topnotch food and music at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres.

Take a thrilling ride at Valleyfair.

Revel in small-town pride by attending a baseball game at one of the area’s many mini-stadiums.

Head to Mystic Lake Casino Hotel for dozens of entertainment options, all under one roof.

Want to lose yourself in nature? Step into the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge.

The list of things to do in the southwest metro goes on and on.

So whatever your interest, adventure and leisure can be found — all in your backyard.

FILE PHOTOS BY MARK W. OLSON

The Minnesota River Valley offers breathtaking views around every turn in the fall. Here’s a view from Eden Prairie facing Scott County.

2021 • Stay & Play • Page 5

Visitors walk on the Long Meadow Lake Trail in the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge.

FILE PHOTO

5 things to know about the wildlife refuge

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ompiled of 14,000 acres and a wetland management district, the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge is open year-round for visitors to seek nature.

Here are five things people might not know about the Refuge which spans from Bloomington to Henderson, just southwest of Belle Plaine.

Information from Sara Blood, executive director with Minnesota Valley Refuge Friends.

1. URBAN REFUGE Of the 560-some national wildlife refuges, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, just over 100 are urban refuges.

That means they’re stationed within 25 miles of 250,000 people.

The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge is one of those urban spaces. In fact, it’s considered one of only 14 priority refuges, meaning certain programming could have the most impact on people and wildlife in the space.

2. FREE You don’t have to pay to visit the refuge.

That means no admission to the visitor center or events, nor a parking permit or fee.

Trails are open each day from sunrise to sunset.

3. FOR THE PUBLIC When people hear the words “wildlife refuge,” they may think it’s a people-free zone. That’s not the case for the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge (even dogs are allowed on sixfoot leashes).

The space is for wildlife, yes, but it’s also for the public. People can traverse 46 miles of trails via walking, hiking or bicycling. In the winter, Page 6 • Stay & Play • 2021

MINNESOTA VALLEY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE Hours: Trails open sunrise to sunset every day of the year Cost: Free Info: www.fws.gov/refuge/Minnesota_Valley; 952854-5900.

Location: Here are a few places to visit in the Minnesota River National Wildlife Refuge: REFUGE HEADQUARTERS AND BLOOMINGTON EDUCATION AND VISITOR CENTER 3815 American Blvd. East, Bloomington RAPIDS LAKE EDUCATION CENTER 15865 Rapids Lake Road, Carver LOUISVILLE SWAMP UNIT 3801 145th St. W., Shakopee BASS PONDS UNIT 2501 86th St. E., Bloomington CEDAR AVENUE BRIDGE AND TRAILHEAD 9898 Old Cedar Ave. S., Bloomington

that list welcomes snowshoeing, too. Other things to do include hunting, fishing, birdwatching and taking photos.

4. DIFFERENT HABITATS Visitors can see four different habitats at the refuge: floodplain forest, wetlands, oak savanna and tallgrass prairie. The floodplain forest areas offer places for birds to nest and migrate, some spaces closed to protect bald eagle and other bird nests during the breeding season.

Top: A short hike is rewarded with a beautiful overlook at the Louisville Swamp Unit of the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge.

Bottom: The sun sets over the oak savanna at the Louisville Swamp Unit near Jordan in the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge.

FILE PHOTOS BY MARK W. OLSON

The Refuge’s wetlands vary from marshes to shallow meadows. Staff are able to control water levels at some of those locations.

5. DOZEN UNITS The “refuge” might be one word, but it’s made of 12 units. Many people’s favorite is the Old Cedar Avenue Bridge in Bloomington with plenty of paved paths for quicker nature visits.

Other go-tos are the new fishing piers at the Bass Ponds unit and the Rapids Lake Education & Visitor Center’s farm ruins. People can see a giant rock left by a receding glacier.

2021 • Stay & Play • Page 7

“Night Song” is just one of the many pieces displayed in the Arboretum’s Harrison Sculpture Garden.

A snapshot of the 2020 Annual Garden display.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE MINNESOTA LANDSCAPE ARBORETUM

The Arboretum’s Maze Garden as seen from above.

Fun on the grow 5 things to check out at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

MINNESOTA LANDSCAPE ARBORETUM Location: 3675 Arboretum Drive, Chanhassen Hours: Open by reservation 8 a.m.-7 p.m. daily Cost: Members, children 15 and under and University of Minnesota students with ID are free, $15 for visitors 16 and up.

Info/tickets: arb.umn.edu

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hanhassen is home to one of the best botanical gardens in North America: the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum.

With over 1,200 acres of professionally-maintained gardens, rotating exhibits and special events year-round, there’s always something to do — but first-time visitors might feel a little intimidated by the options across the Arb. Here are five staples of the Arboretum perfect for those new to the land, suggested by the Arboretum’s Associate Director of Marketing Tony Baisley.

1. THREE MILES The Three-Mile Drive and Three-Mile Walk is the best way to see the Arboretum in the shortest amount of time. Each paved trail winds through the various collections and landscapes throughout the Arb, with plenty of places to stop Page 8 • Stay & Play • 2021

and admire the natural beauty. From exhibits like the Sensory Garden to the blooming Crabapple Tree Collection, there’s something for everyone — whether you hike, bike or drive.

2. ART AT THE ARB Art exhibits at the Arb’s indoor gallery rotate throughout the year.

If you’d rather stay outside, the Harrison Sculpture Garden is located just off the ThreeMile Drive; its three acres hold dozens of pieces from artists around the world.

3. ARB THE TREE GNOME As the name implies, Arb the Tree Gnome likes to learn about — and hang out with — trees across the Arboretum. Each week, Arb and his friends will be hidden in a new location throughout the Season of Trees, and successful hunters could win their own tree gnome at the end of the summer.

4. ANNUAL GARDEN The annual garden is just steps from the Oswald Visitor Center and parking lot, and the colors make it easy to spot. This year’s Annual Garden display features a variety of combinations — Landscape Gardener Duane Otto made each bed a different theme, like warm colors (red, orange and yellow), cool colors (green, blue and violet), primary (red, blue and yellow), royal (reds and violets) and more. Each bed is a concept on its own, but the combination of the flowers creates a cohesive color story for the entire display.

5. EXPLORE THE MAZE GARDEN After a long closure, the Maze Garden, also accessible from the Three-Mile Walk/Drive, is reopening for children (and adults) of all ages.

Find your way through the enormous shrubs to a tall deck overlooking the garden (and yell hints to your lost companions).

PHOTO COURTESY OF HEIDI BOHNENKAMP, 2015

“Sister Act” at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres.

FILE PHOTO

Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, 501 W. 78th St., Chanhassen.

Dine and delight Enjoying Chanhassen Dinner Theatres to the max

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hanhassen Dinner Theatres CHANHASSEN ( CD T ) is t he DINNER THEATRES largest profesLocation: 501 W. 78th St., Chanhassen sional dinner theatre comInfo: https://chanhassendt.com; 952-934-1525 pany in the nation, a title it’s held strong for 53 years.

In that time, the showplus-meal venue has brought in close to 13 million guests from all 50 states and across the world, according to Public Relations Director Kris Howland.

The dinner theatre produces all its shows, with locally-cast actors and 100% Minnesota-made artistic crew.

Here are five tips on how to get the most from a visit to CDT.

1. DINNER Enjoying dinner, included in the ticket price, is a major part of the theater experience. Menu favorites include the “Famous Chicken Chanhassen” and the “Towering Chocolate Cake for Two.” Dinner seating begins two hours prior to the show for most performances.

PHOTO COURTESY OF DAN NORMAN NORMAN, 2020

Michael Gruber, as Harold Hill, and Ann Michels, as Marian Paroo, interact in a library scene in “The Music Man” at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres.

2. SPECIAL OCCASION Celebrating a special occasion at the theatres? Let the box office know about a birthday or anniversary, and greeters will announce it onstage.

3. OUT OF TOWN? For out-of-towners or those looking for a home away from home, nearby hotels partner with CDT to give guests discounted rates. Box office staff can help coordinate special room rates while reserving tickets.

4. HOGARTH The Hogarth cocktail bar, inside the theater building, is open for CDT guests to grab a drink before the show. It opens an hour before dinner seating and offers wines, beers and spirits.

5. LOTS OF ENTERTAINMENT Putting on large-scale Broadway musicals is CDT’s forte. But entertainment also includes a tribute concert series, Stevie Ray’s Comedy Cabaret improv club, and Brindisi’s Pub and outdoor patio — a favorite watering hole for many.

Information provided by Kris Howland, CDT public relations director.

2021 • Stay & Play • Page 9

Renaissance Festival attendees love a good jousting match.

FILE PHOTO

This year, the Renaissance Festival is celebrating its 50th season of huzzah and cheers, featuring live entertainment, incharacter street performers and artisan vendors selling wares straight out of the 16th century.

FILE PHOTO BY MICHAEL STRASBURG

Get your fill of huzzah!

3 tips for navigating the Minnesota Renaissance Festival on a budget

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he Minnesota Renaissance Festival is one of the staple MINNESOTA summer traditions in the RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL southwest metro.

This year, the Renaissance Festival Location: 3525 145th St W., Shakopee. There are two entrances — The Queen’s Gate, 12364 Chestnut Blvd., is celebrating its 50th season of huzzah and the King’s Gate, 3525 145th St. W., both in Shakopee. and cheers, featuring live entertainment, in-character street performers and artiHours: 9 a.m.-7 p.m. rain or shine. Open weekends Aug. 21Oct. 3, plus Labor Day on Sept. 6 and Festival Friday on Oct. 1. san vendors selling wares straight out of the 16th century.

Cost: $25.95 for adults; $23.95 for age 65 and up; $16.95 Even if you’re on a budget, the festival for children ages 5-12. Season passes available. can be an affordable option as compared Info: 952-445-7361, renaissancefest.com to other summer festivals like the Minnesota State Fair. Just 45 minutes outside PHOTOS BY MICHAEL STRASBURG the Twin Cities, here are a few must-have Renaissance revelers enjoy jumbo turkey legs for $9 a piece tips and tricks to help you navigate an affordable trip to a Renaissance-era during the 2019 festival.

European village:

1. ADMISSION Admission to the festival ranges from about $17 to $26 if you purchase tickets on the day-of. However, if you purchase them online in advance, you could save a few bucks.

As an additional note, if you purchased a ticket in 2020, it’ll be honored at the gate in 2021.

2. ENTERTAINMENT Once you get past the gate, many of the attractions inside the festival including live shows, demonstrations and street performers are free.

One of the f irst stops for newcomers should be Puke & Snot, a vaudevillian comedic act that’s been performing five times a day at the Page 10 • Stay & Play • 2021

festival almost since its beginning in 1971.

The main event of the festival is the armored jousting shows that take place daily. It’s advised to arrive half an hour early to get a good view of the show.

3. FOOD The Renaissance Festival features a variety of classic fair food options that are “fit for a king,” including French fries, fried pickles and numerous items served on a stick.

The turkey leg is perhaps one of the most iconic items and, as a bonus, easy to carry around and munch on while you take in the festivities.

For those over the age of 21, there are a variety of hard ciders, pints of beer and even honey mead you can indulge in.

Carmen Mize watches a horse race at Canterbury Park in September 2020, when only a limited number of fans were allowed to the race track.

PHOTO BY MADDIE DEBILZAN

PHOTO BY COADY PHOTOGRAPHY

Canterbury Park horses take off.

Wagering a good time 6 tips for first-time horse betters at Canterbury Park

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anterbury Park in Shakopee is a regional attraction, where casual fans and betting regulars come together to cheer on their favorite horses each summer. But horse betting can be confusing for those who have never wagered before.

Here are some tips, provided by Canterbury Park, for beginners:

1. WHERE TO START Brian Arrigoni, Canterbury Park’s racing analyst, said the best place to start each race is the paddock where the horses are saddled.

That’s where Arrigoni provides insight before each race.

2. READ UP Use the daily program to learn more about each horse as well as the jockeys and trainers.

It’s also helpful to have a pen or pencil handy to take notes and write down your bets.

3. KEEP IT SIMPLE Keep your bets simple. A good first wager for beginners is to make a “win” bet, or only betting on a horse to finish first. The minimum win wager is $2. Once comfortable, try exacta wagers, which means betting on the exact order of the top two finishers in a race. The minimum exacta wager is $1 per combination.

4. DON’T FOLLOW THE CROWD Odds are determined by the total money wagered on each horse, and f luctuate until race time. The favorite horse isn’t necessarily the best — it just has the most money wagered on it, according to Canterbury. Historically, favorites win only one-third of the time. “Don’t blindly follow the crowd when wagering,”

CANTERBURY PARK Location: 1100 Canterbury Road South, Shakopee Info: 952-445-7223, canterburypark.com

Arrigoni said. “Don’t be afraid to bet on the longshots.” (Yes, even if that means you simply choose a horse because you like its name or are drawn to its color). Current odds can be found many places in the racetrack, including the tote board in the infield and on TV screens throughout the racetrack.

5. FIND AN EXPERT Ask for help. Canterbury Park has experts scattered throughout the grounds to offer assistance. The grandstand information booth on the first floor has a team who can help you with reading the program and wagering basics.

6. HAVE FUN! Most importantly: Have fun. You can pool your money on a group bet. And know that your best investment all day might simply be a cold glass of beer … and that’s OK. 2021 • Stay & Play • Page 11

The award-winning course, The Meadows at Mystic Lake Golf Course, features an on-site pro shop, private lessons, and a practice facility with a driving range and two large putting greens.

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Making the most of Mystic Lake Casino Hotel The top 5 amenities to explore

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rom gaming and golfing to dining and entertainment — or relaxing in one of the luxurious hotel suites — there is something for everyone at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel.

Below are the top five amenities to experience when making the most of your stay at one of Minnesota’s premier entertainment destinations.

1. SUMMER ENTERTAINMENT

MYSTIC LAKE CASINO HOTEL Location: 2400 Mystic Lake Blvd., Prior Lake Hours: Casino is always open; contact Mystic Lake for specific hours for each amenity Cost: Contact Mystic Lake for pricing on each amenity Info: 800-262-7799, mysticlake.com

Mystic Lake Casino Hotel is one of the leading entertainment venues for shows and live music in the Twin Cities, with fun, wide-ranging summer entertainment opportunities.

The most up-to-date information on upcoming concerts and events at Mystic Lake can be found at mysticlake.com.

2. THE MEADOWS AT MYSTIC LAKE GOLF COURSE If you’re looking for a unique and challenging, full-service golf experience, look no further than The Meadows at Mystic Lake.

The Meadows is one of Minnesota’s premier golfing destinations. This award-winning course features an on-site pro shop, private lessons, and a practice facility with a driving range and two large putting greens.

Along with its pro shop and The Meadows Bar and Grille, the course officially opened for the season on April 16. Book your tee time today at golfthemeadows.com.

Page 12 • Stay & Play • 2021

Mystic Lake Hotel’s Promenade Hotel Tower is what makes this destination extra special, and one of the largest hotels in the Twin Cities.

F Feat u r i ng hu nd red s of slot m machines, multiple blackjack ttables, and never-ending bingo ffun, there are endless ways to w win at Mystic Lake Casino.

Mystic Lake is looking forward to safely welcoming music lovers and eventgoers back this summer.

3. MYSTIC LAKE HOTEL Those in need of a little relaxation will easily find it in one of Mystic Lake’s luxurious hotel guestrooms. With bright rooms featuring comfortable beds, contemporary furnishings, and oversized bathrooms, guests have access to everything they need for a relaxing stay.

Mystic Lake Hotel’s Promenade Hotel Tower is what makes this destination extra special, and one of the largest hotels in the Twin Cities. Enjoy golf course views, modern amenities, complimentary parking, and more from one of the Tower’s upscale suites.

Explore a variety of packages that offer savings on luxurious suites and provide specials on combined golfing and hotel reservations to maximize your time at Mystic Lake. Book your package today.

4. MYSTIC LAKE CASINO The best place to truly stay and play: Mystic Lake Casino. Featuring hundreds of slot machines, multiple blackjack tables, and never-ending bingo fun, there are endless ways to win at Minnesota’s largest casino.

Guests can take advantage of the newest casino promotions or simply stick to tried-and-true gaming favorites. Visit Mystic Lake Casino to test your luck today!

All gaming features enhanced sanitization and social distancing protocols, per Mystic Lake Casino Hotel’s health and safety guidelines.

5. MYSTIC STEAKHOUSE A 2020 OpenTable Diners’ Choice Award winner, Mystic Steakhouse is the best place in the southwest metro to experience the finest Prime beef and fresh seafood. Mystic Steakhouse’s menu ranges in generous variety from the finest filet mignon and Atlantic lobster tail to an ever-changing list of curated boutique wines.

Whenever possible, each dish is made with seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients for the freshest flavors around, guaranteeing a meal that you will never forget. Make a reservation at Mystic Steakhouse today at mysticlake.com.

GREAT FOOD. GREAT PEOPLE. GREAT TIMES. • World Class Homemade thin crust pizza • Certified Angus Beef burgers • 30 Taps • Best selection of Local Craft Beers • 20 HD tv’s

952-445-9668 132 First Avenue East www.turtlesbarandgrill.com 2021 • Stay & Play • Page 13

Mall of America is a global destination

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he Mall of America is a global tourist MALL OF AMERICA destination conveLocation: 2131 Lindau Lane, Bloomington niently located less Hours: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; contact Mall of than two miles from America for hours for specific amenities the Minneapolis-St. Paul InterCost: Contact Mall of America for pricing national Airport. on specific amenities The mall spans 5.6 million Info: 952-883-8800, mallofamerica.com square feet, contains over 520 stores and generates over $2 billion in economic activit y each year.

With around 40 million visitors annually, there are two hotels attached to the mall and over 50 additional hotels located within a ten minute-drive radius.

The Mall of America is also a treasured spot for Minnesotans and other midwesterners — over 30 million people live within a day’s drive of the mall.

Located in the center of the mall, Nickelodeon Universe is a 7-acre indoor theme park featuring more than 27 rides and attractions.

Nickelodeon Universe features the longest indoor zip line in North America, the tallest Sky Trail ropes course in the world and thrill rides such as the SpongeBob Rock Bottom Plunge roller coaster.

Another major attraction at the mall is the SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium — a 1.3 million gallon underwater experience.

The aquarium’s 300-foot ocean tunnel offers visitors a chance to have a close-up view of roughly 10,000 sea creatures.

Sustainability

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MALL OF AMERICA

Nickelodeon Universe features thrill rides such as the SpongeBob Rock Bottom Plunge roller coaster.

There are many ways the mall strives to operate sustainably.

The Mall of America’s air is naturally purified by 30,000 live plants and 400 live trees. Thousands of ladybugs are released into the mall to maintain the plants without using pesticides.

Despite Minnesota’s frigid weather, there is no central heating system in Mall of America.

The mall maintains a comfortable 70 degree temperature during the winter months with the help of solar energy from 1.2 miles of skylights, residual heat from light fixtures and body heat from visitors.

Mall of America facts Did you know 347 Statues of Liberty could lie inside the Mall of America?

Two out of 10 mall visitors are tourists.

There are 872 seats in the CMX Market Cinema.

Over 12,000 groups visit Mall of America annually.

Mall of America sees about 40 million visitors annually.

Nickelodeon Universe is a 7-acre indoor theme park featuring more than 27 rides and attractions.

Page 14 • Stay & Play • 2021

There are two hotels attached to the mall and over 50 additional hotels located within a ten minute-drive radius.

Five things to know before curling

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ver watch curling in the Winter Olympics and CHASKA think I want to try that?

CURLING CENTER Jeff Isaacson, Chaska Curling Center manager, said there Location: 3210 Chaska Blvd, Chaska, MN 55318 are two common pathways into the game.

Hours: Daily, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

The Curling Center tries to Cost: Memberships range from offer public learn to curl classes $26-30 for juniors, $68-80 for adults each month. This two-hour lesInfo: 952-227-2475 son is a great crash course on the www.chaskacurlingcenter.com game. Instructors cover set-up in the hack, delivery, sweeping, rules and etiquette. The class concludes with a mini game to get the feel of playing an actual game and practice your newly learned skills.

They also offer group or corporate team-building events, which are private lessons where instruction is tailored to each group. This is less focused on fundamentals and more on fun and game play.

“Instructors are still there to teach the group how to curl and help keep participants safe and having fun. After participating in a lesson, many look to pursue membership or use the facility as a drop-in guest. Curling is not like bowling where inexperienced curlers just show up and rent a sheet of ice. Curling ice is highly specialized and 42-pound sliding rocks pose a danger to all users.

We want to make sure those on the ice have knowledge of the do’s and don’ts and basic curling etiquette. Most importantly, we want people to be safe and have a great experience on the ice!” Isaacson said.

Isaacson offers these five things to know before curling for the first time:

While things may look a little different at the Chaska Curling Center — masks, fewer participants on each sheet of ice, touchpoint cleaning — one thing not lost through the COVID pandemic has been the fun.

1. TAKES SKILL It’s harder than it looks. Most leave with a much greater appreciation for the skill required to play the game. With that said, you’ll be amazed at how much progress you make from the beginning to the end of the class.

We often equate curling and golf. Anyone can enjoy a day on the golf course regardless of skill. Playing the game at a high level is another story — it requires lots of practice. Be patient and come willing to learn.

The Chaska Curling Center has four league seasons: Summer (AugustSeptember), Winter I (October-December), Winter II (JanuaryMarch), Spring (May-June), ranging from six- to 10-week seasons.

2. FOR ALL AGES Curling is a game for all ages and abilities. On any given day at the curling clubs across the country, you’ll see wheelchair athletes, youth teams, and those in their 70s, 80s, and even 90s curling! For those that have bad knees or backs, stick curling is an option.

3. CHESS ON ICE Curling is often referred to as chess on ice. Strategy is a big part of the game. The goal is not always to get as many rocks in the house (scoring area) as possible. Sometimes teams intentionally throw rocks short of the house (guards) to try to generate offense later in the end.

Even after playing hundreds of games, new situations always come up and there are always new learning opportunities. Like any sport, there are always things to learn and improve on. This makes it fun and keeps people coming back.

4. WARM UP Do some dynamic warm-ups prior to curling and stretches when finished up. You’ll use some leg muscles that you didn’t know you had! Many say the next day, “Wow, I can feel it in my legs today!” The sliding motion requires a lunge position and good balance. Many fall when trying to slide for the first (or second, third….) time. It’s OK and part of the learning process.

Stick with it and you’ll be making curling shots in no time!

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5. CAMARADERIE Curling is a welcoming game and you’ll meet people from all walks of life. You’ll make new friendships and amazing memories. Camaraderie is a big part of the game. If you’ve ever considered trying curling — take the leap and jump in a learn to curl class, you will be glad you gave it a try!

Beginner leagues are offered in our spring and summer leagues for those that want to get into league play.

2021 • Stay & Play • Page 15

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MINNESOTA HORSE AND HUNT CLUB

The Minnesota Horse and Hunt Club in Prior Lake sits within 600 acres of some of the most beautiful property in the metro area.

Minnesota Horse and Hunt Club An outdoor recreation destination

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he Minnesota Horse and Hunt Club is not just a place to shoot clay targets.

The club in Prior Lake has a lot of amenities for its members, including full access to hunting fields, free native waterfowl during the hunting season, full use of rifle and pistol ranges and sporting clay target leagues.

There’s the Trigger Bar & Restaurant, along with special member pricing on lodging, dog boarding, room rentals for events, banquets, weddings and corporate outings.

The club came under new ownership when David Penn purchased the 600-acre venue for $11 million.

Penn, the former general manager of the club, bought the facility from long time owners Bill Urseth and Randy Travalia in April of 2020. An avid hunter, farmer and experienced club manager, Penn called the move “serendipitous” for both himself and the former owners.

“It was kind of a good marriage of all my skill sets,” Penn said after the sale.

Here are five things to know about the Minnesota Horse and Hunt Club: They offer different types of instruction on site, from family trap shooting to individual instruction to permit to carry classes.

Trigger’s Bar & Restaurant has a large menu, offering a variety of foods from the fields, lakes and streams, along with some traditional favorites

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Top Inset: The Minnesota Horse and Hunt Club in Prior Lake hosts over 300 events each year, including weddings, banquets and corporate events.

Bottom Inset: The Trigger’s Bar & Restaurant at the Minnesota Horse and Hunt Club in Prior Lake features dining rooms with striking hilltop panoramic views set in the rustic charm of rough-hewn logs.

MINNESOTA HORSE AND HUNT CLUB Location: 2920 East 220th Street, Prior Lake Range Hours: Monday-Thursday, 9:30 to sundown; Friday-Sunday, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Hunting Fields open, 8:30 a.m.

Annual Cost: 3-person group membership, $1,399 annually per person; 5-person group, $1,299; 10-person group, $1,199; 20-person group, $1,099. Sporting Clays membership, $129. Gun Club membership, $649. Non-resident membership, $799.

Info: 952-447-2272, horseandhunt.com.

like steak, chicken and pasta choices.

Members are given year-round access to over 500 acres that are dedicated to the pursuit of upland and waterfowl birds.

There are private boarding stables with indoor and outdoor boarding for horses, and indoor and outdoor riding rings.

Dog kennels, boarding and training are available on the property.

“Over the years, the Minnesota Horse & Hunt Club has been working every day to improve your overall experience when visiting the club with upgrades to our Trigger’s menu, over-the-top events and guest experiences,” said Nikki Peitz, the club’s marketing manager.

Main photo: Rhythm on the Rails, a local musical tradition, is a free concert series that happens each year in Shakopee.

Top inset: Though it was canceled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the acts for this year’s Rhythm on the Rails event have been booked and planning is in the works.

Downtown rhythm Popular Shakopee concert series Rhythm on the Rails returns

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ive music is slowly but surely making its return, and those who want to catch a concert this summer won’t have to go far to enjoy a performance from regional musicians.

In fact, if you stay close to home, you won’t even have to spend money on a ticket — Rhythm on the Rails, a local musical tradition, is a free concert series that happens each year in Shakopee.

Though it was canceled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the acts for this year’s Rhythm on the Rails event have been booked and planning is in the works.

Every Wednesday evening from July 14 through Aug. 11, folks of all ages can attend the events, which will take place on Lewis Street in downtown Shakopee.

Each nightly concert throughout the five-week festival runs from 6-9 p.m.

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RHYTHM ON THE RAILS Location: Lewis Street, downtown Shakopee Hours: Wednesday evenings, 6-9 p.m.

Cost: Free Info: 952-445-1660, downtownshakopee.org/ rhythmontherails

Each nightly concert throughout the fiveweek festival runs from 6-9 p.m.

Here are six of the regional acts that will be featured as headliners throughout the summer: • Trailer Trash • The Belfast Cowboys • The World According to Garth — A Tribute to Garth Brooks • G.B. Leighton

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The Fabulous Armadillos I Am, He Said — A Celebration of Neil Diamond starring Matt Vee For the first week of the concert series, Trailer Trash and the Belfast Cowboys will headline performances. After that, performances will feature a number of local opening acts, said Tim Zunker of the Shakopee Chamber of Commerce, who is organizing the community event.

The opportunity to see each performance for free is a result of both sponsor-led and community support, Zunker said.

In addition to music, the event will feature food trucks and vendors, beverage options, a kid’s zone and more, giving it an overall “festival vibe.”

“It will be great to have the community back out enjoying live entertainment and other fun activities,” said Zunker.

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a tttractions tractions Shakopee’s Valleyfair amusement park.

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Top inset: Valleyfair has several roller coasters to choose from, depending on your thrill-seeking tolerance level.

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VALLEYFAIR Location: 1 Valley Fair Drive, Shakopee Hours: Check the amusement park’s website for a specific calendar.

Bottom inset: Valleyfair will be home to what it’s calling a cultural celebration this summer for Grand Carnivale.

Cost: Single-day passes start at $29.99 Info: valleyfair.com

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‘Something for everyone’ 4 tips for navigating Valleyfair this summer

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alleyfair officially opened its gates to the public this summer after a year of shuttered doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Valleyfair spokesperson Kelsey Megard said she recommends those interested in taking a trip to the park for the day take the following steps to have the best possible experience this summer:

1. BOOK A RESERVATION Valleyfair will be requiring reservations to visit the park this season to maintain a controlled capacity, so families will need to be sure to secure their spots ahead of time.

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2. DOWNLOAD THE MOBILE APP The park encourages guests to download its mobile app, which allows guests to store tickets or season passes virtually. The app also includes ride wait times, show times and an interactive map.

3. REVIEW EVENT LISTINGS The park encourages guests to review its event listings so they don’t miss out on any of unique experience this season. This year, the park will introduce guests to Grand Carnivale, a cultural celebration full of “something for everyone” from July 24 through Aug. 8.

The event will include a parade and a street party with food, drinks and music from around the world.

The multicultural festival will feature more than 100 costumed performers and several Mardi Gras-inspired floats. Each night, the event will begin with a Spectacle of Color Parade, which will highlight cultural traditions from around the globe, followed by a Carnivale Street Party, which will include an interactive dance party and family-friendly activities. When the sun sets, the sky will illuminate with a light show.

4. KNOW BEFORE YOU GO With things changing frequently based on expert and state guidance, make sure you have the most up to date info by checking out Valleyfair. com and following Valleyfair’s social channels.

With its yellow signage and large yellow silo, Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store is difficult to miss off Highway 169 in Jordan.

FILE PHOTO BY RACHEL MINSKE

FILE PHOTO BY MICHAEL STRASBURG

Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store hires more than 100 employees to keep the shelves stocked over the spring, fall and summer.

FILE PHOTO

Fuel up for summer adventures at Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store in Jordan.

Every type of candy imaginable And 1,200 different sodas

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strawberry to green tea and banana. ith over 3,000 varieties of candy, MINNESOTA’S LARGEST Chocolate Kit-Kats are an American classic, but Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store CANDY STORE (also known as Jim’s Apple Farm) you can also find kinds not available in your local groLocation: 20430 Johnson Memorial Drive, Jordan lives up to its name. cery store, like the popular green matcha, cranberry, The bright yellow converted barn off of Highway orange and combos like strawberry lime.

Hours: 8 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday through Thursday; 169 in Jordan has every type of candy imaginable and Prefer chewy candy? There are over 80 types of 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday through Sunday. The store 1,200 different sodas, plus some extras like popcorn, taffy to mix and match for any taste bud: key lime pie, usually opens in May and remains open through late November. pie and thousands of puzzles. chocolate, cotton candy, caramel apple, and “Fourth But with so many options, it can be tough to narof July” (red, white and blue in patriotic wrapping). row down Jerry “The Soda Guy” Kornder, the store’s Adventurous eaters can try boxes of seasoned soda buyer and candy expert, has some popular — and wacky — suggestions worms and ants, or larvae in lollipops. Bacon-lovers rejoice: they’ve got for experienced shoppers and newcomers alike. bacon candy canes, dressing and even toothpaste.

But the most popular item? Candy “cigarettes” in nostalgic, novelty Ramune Japanese soda is a new addition; the 8-ounce glass bottle stands out from its competitors (instead of a bottle cap, they use a glass packaging. The store has a large display of the sugar sticks and frequently marble) and the 40 flavors carried range from classic options like apple and sells out, Kornder said.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF BILL SCHLEPER

Schleper Stadium in Shakopee off Highway 169 was home to the 2020 Class B State Amateur Baseball Tournament.

Town Team Baseball Tour Catch nine innings of action this summer

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An overhead view of Chaska’s Athletic Park in 2019. The Chaska Cubs are co-hosts with Waconia and Hamburg for the 2021 State Amateur Baseball Tournament; the first time since 2008.

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cott and Carver counties are home to some of the state of Minnesota’s best town team baseball parks.

There’s Athletic Park in Chaska, home to the Cubs and co-host of the 2021 State Amateur Baseball Tournament.

There’s the Mini Met in Jordan, home to many state tournaments, and the 2019 Class C state champion Brewers.

There’s Joe Schleper Stadium in Shakopee, a state tournament venue in 2018 and 2020. Met Stadium seats line the grandstand.

There’s Storm/Red Bird Stadium in Chanhassen, home to the three-time defending Class B state champion Red Birds.

If you feel like venturing out this summer, here are five other stadiums to visit:

CARVER COUNTY Cologne’s Fritz Field, 305 Playhouse St. W., Cologne One of the best views of the sunset from the hill. Must haves: burger and cheese curds basket.

Waconia’s Lions Field, 1606 Community Drive, Waconia

Co-hosts of the 2021 State Amateur Baseball Tournament with Chaska.

Must-go: this stadium has one of the best grandstands across the state.

Hamburg’s Hawks Park, 396 Sophia Ave., Hamburg

Another state tournament multi-time host, including as a third site in 2021 with Chaska and Waconia.

SCOTT COUNTY St. Patrick’s Bonin Field, 1040 245th St. E., New Prague Located between Prior Lake and New Prague, St. Patrick is home to a church, a burger joint and a gem of a baseball field where an ongoing capital campaign is underway to install lights.

Prior Lake’s Veterans Field at Memorial Park, 5181 160th St. SE, Prior Lake Page 20 • Stay & Play • 2021

The Mini Met ballpark in Jordan still manually puts the scores up on the board, adding to the uniqueness of the stadium FILE PHOTO

Home tto th H the Cl Class B JJays and d Cl Class C M Mudcats, d t check out the view down the first-base line.

TAKE IT FROM HIM Bob Greeley, formerly of Shakopee Community Education, released his favorite 100 stadiums in 2020, on Twitter.

Here are some highlights: No. 4: Mini Met, Jordan: Manual scoreboard, top 10 ambience, unique grandstand, train tracks, perfect playing field.

No. 5: Joe Schleper Stadium, Shakopee: Top 10 grandstand, topnotch playing surface, cool seating options and sight lines, award-winning party deck/play.

No. 8: Athletic Park, Chaska: new brick knee wall behind home plate, dugout improvements, wood grandstand, great ambience and atmosphere, top-10 TLC and concessions.

No. 10: Storm/Red Bird Stadium, Chanhassen: Grandstand made to look old, fall 2020 renovations to outfield fence, ADA, easy walk-around, top-notch announcer.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SANDVENTURE

SandVenture Aquatic Park has a 300-foot water slide for a fast-speed slide into the pool.

Great place to ‘swim, chill and relax’ The cleanest ‘lake’ in Shakopee

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andVenture Aquatic Park in Shakopee is one of the hidden gems in the Twin Cities.

It’s a beach pool — or a pool that looks like a beach. Nevertheless, it’s a chlorinated pond with filtered water, one of only 14 in the entire state. The park only allows 900 people at a time, but it’s large enough to fit about six tennis courts.

“For more than 50 years, SandVenture has been the perfect place to cool off and dive into fun in Shakopee,” said Kristin Doran, communications manager for the city of Shakopee. “It offers a unique swimming experience with the thrills of an aquatic park and the comfort of a sand beach.

It’s a great place for community members to swim, chill and relax on a summer day.”

Doran listed the five best ways to the make the most of a day at SandVenture:

1. DIVE IN The park’s unique sand-bottom, chlorinated pool offers the feel of lake swimming in a safe environment with American Red Cross-certified lifeguards.

2. BRING THE FAMILY FIX The zero-depth-entry pool is great for all ages and is spacious for your favorite swimming activities. The park also has changing areas,

SANDVENTURE AQUATIC PARK Location: 1101 Adams Street, Shakopee, MN, 55379 Hours: Open June 11 to Aug. 22 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Cost: Regular hours, under 48 inches tall; military and seniors 60 and over; $5. Over 48 inches tall, $7. Price reduced $2 after 5 p.m. 10-punch season pass for residents, $50, and non-residents, $60. 20-punch pass for residents, $95, and non-residents $115.

Info: 952-233-3840, shakopeemn.gov/recreation

SandVenture Aquatic Park in Shakopee is a chlorinated pond with filtered water, one of only 14 in the entire state.

shade structures and a concession stand with refreshments to keep guests hydrated for a full day of swimming.

3. PACK YOUR BUILDING TOOLS The park’s unique sand beach is the perfect place to build your sand sculpture creations. Be sure to pack a pail and shovel to build your dream sandcastle.

4. GET READY FOR ADVENTURE From drop slides to a 300-foot water slide,

thrill seekers can make a splash with a fast-speed slide into the pool. The park also has a diving board and beach play area.

5. MAKE IT SPECIAL The park hosts a variety of special events through the year with entertainment, contests and prizes. You can also schedule your next birthday party or group outing.

This spring the city of Shakopee is also conducting a feasibility study into improvements for the park.

“Community members have been actively engaged in sharing ideas for how to improve facility amenities and offer year-round fun for all residents in Shakopee,” Doran said.

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YOUR GUIDE

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12. Chaska Community Center 1661 Park Ridge Dr. Chaska, 952-448-5633

2. Cleary Lake Regional Park 18106 Texas Ave., Prior Lake Prior Lake, 763-694-7777

13. Carver Park Reserve Co. Rd. 11, N. of Hwy. 5 Victoria, 952-472-4911

3. Stans Museum 235 S. Fuller St. Shakopee, 952-445-0378

14. Lake Minnewashta Regional Park Hwy. 41, between Hwys. 5 & 7 Chanhassen, 952-448-6082

4. Canterbury Park 1100 S. Canterbury Rd. Shakopee, 952-445-7223

15. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum 3675 Arboretum Dr. Hwy. 5, 1/2 mile W. of Hwy. 41 Chanhassen, 952-443-1400

5. Valleyfair Amusement Park One Valleyfair Dr. (On Co. Rd. 101) Shakopee, 952-445-6500 6. Minneapolis Gun Club 20006 Judicial Rd. Prior Lake, 952-469-4386

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Murphy Hanrehan Park Reserve

7. The Landing 2187 E. Hwy. 101 Shakopee, 763-694-7784

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leary Lake gional Park

1. Mystic Lake Casino Hotel 2400 Mystic Lake Blvd.

Prior Lake, 952-445-9000

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8. Renaissance Festival 12364 Chestnut Blvd.

Shakopee, 952-445-7361

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9. Old-Time Harvest Festival 19375 Fairview Ln. Jordan, 952-492-2062

6 Lakeville

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10. MN River Valley State Trail Access points a. Off Hwy. 169, S.W. of Shakopee b. Off Co. Rd. 9 in Jordan

16. Chanhassen Dinner Theatres 501 W. 78th St. (N. of Hwy. 5 & Great Plains Blvd.)

Chanhassen, 952-934-1525 17. Chaska Curling Center 3210 Chaska Blvd.

Chaska, 952-227-2475 18. Mall of America 2131 Lindau Lane Bloomington, 952-883-8800 19. Minnesota Horse and Hunt Club 2920 220th St. E. Prior Lake, 952-447-2272 20. MN’s Largest Candy Store 20430 Johnson Memorial Drive Jordan 21. Sandventure Aquatic Park 101 Adams St. Shakopee, 952-233-3840

11. Chaska City Square Park Hwy. 41 & 4th St., Chaska

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