Create unforgettable Minnesota memories. Visit the Mississippi River headwaters. Cruise on Lake Superior. Travel the Great River Road or 20 other scenic byways. Experience world-class dining and theater, concerts, museums, shopping and hands-on attractions.
P L A N YO U R M I N N E S O TA T O U R AT E X P L OR E M I N N E S O TA .C OM C A L L 1 –8 8 8 –8 4 7 – 4 8 6 6 F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I ON
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LAKE SUPERIOR SUNRISE, DULUTH. PHOTO CREDIT: LEVI DREVLOW
WELCOME TO MINNESOTA
When people ask me what there is to do in Minnesota, I find myself stumbling over the answer. With more than 10,000 lakes, the headwaters of our nation’s greatest river, the biggest of the Great Lakes, and the most famous mall in America, a better question might be: What should I do first?
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The truth is, there’s always something happening in Minnesota. 2018 will kick off with one of the biggest happenings of the year: Super Bowl LII, which takes the field at U.S. Bank Stadium after 10 days of winter revelry in downtown Minneapolis and beyond. But the big game is only the beginning. New trails, new museums, new rides, new hotels and new adventures are poised to enhance what is already an extraordinary place to visit. So what is there to do in Minnesota? How about mushing your own team of sled dogs on the Gunflint Trail? Descending a mile underground into a former mine? Watching Native Americans turn stone into sacred pipes? Or casting a line into the No. 1 bass lake in the country? These are just a few of lifelong memories that can be made on a Minnesota vacation, whether it’s your first visit or your home state. While you’re here, you’re going to want to share everything you’ve found with your friends and family back home. We’ve made it easy to do just that with our popular hashtag #OnlyinMN, which our hundreds of thousands of fans use every single day. Snap a selfie with our resident lumberjack Paul Bunyan, or pose in front of a beautiful waterfall or on a charming Main Street, and post it on social media for all to see. We may even feature your photo on our website or in print. If you’re reading this, we hope you’re already considering bringing a group to Minnesota. This guide is full of ideas about things to do, attractions to visit, foods to eat and places to say. If you need even more inspiration, head to our website, give us a call, or chat with one of our travel experts. We can’t wait to welcome your group to Minnesota! Sincerely,
John Edman, Director, Explore Minnesota EXPLORE MINNESOTA TOURISM 121 7th Place E,. Suite 360 St. Paul, MN 55101
PHONE: 651-296-5029 TOLL-FREE: 800-657-3700
exploreminnesota.com
2 Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner • exploreminnesota.com
MARKET DEVELOPMENT
JESSICA DODGE, North America Marketing Representative jessica.dodge@state.mn.us
MILLIE PHILIPP, International Marketing Representative millie.philipp@state.mn.us
GAYLE JUNNILA, Marketing Development Manager gayle.junnila@state.mn.us
SEE WHAT’S INSIDE...
FEATURED STORY
8 2
WELCOME TO MINNESOTA
4
GETTING HERE & GETTING AROUND IS EASY
8 12 16 18 23 26 30 36 42 50
Maps and Mileage Charts
SAMPLE ITINERARIES 32 PICTURESQUE TOWNS AND
WHERE TO GO FEATURES
Minnesota Leaf Peeping Minneapolis-St. Paul Area Botanical Gardens Gardens around the State Minneapolis-St. Paul Area Mansions of Distinction Minnesota’s Historic Mansions Southern Region: Pipestone National Monument Southern Region: Historic Bluff Country Caves Northeast Region: Split Rock Lighthouse Central Region: Monasteries Northwest Region: Headwaters of the Mississippi River Comprehensive listings of destination telephone numbers and URLs found in the back of each region.
MARVELOUS ATTRACTIONS IN MINNESOTA’S SOUTHEAST
There’s much to see in historic Harmony, Preston, Winona, Kellogg, Wabasha and Red Wing. Bring your camera for abundant photo ops.
40 DISCOVER THE HISTORY,
HERITAGE AND SPECIAL WILDLIFE OF NORTHERN MINNESOTA
Scenic train rides, nature’s creatures and special moments in history, from Duluth to Ely to Hibbing to Grand Rapids, make it a tour to remember.
54 THE HERITAGE OF
MINNESOTA TRAVEL TIPS
58 Helpful Advice for Visiting Minnesota 60 Welcome Centers and Consulates 62 Telephone Numbers
READER SERVICE
LEAF-PEEPING
Minnesota’s favorite spectator sport.
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CENTRAL AND NORTHWEST MINNESOTA INCLUDES ONE LARGE LUMBERJACK AND A SEAGOING VIKINGSHIP
Remarkable museums and historical sites coupled with outdoor art and regional cuisine combine for a memorable Minnesota tour.
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MI NNES OTA Map & Mileage
STATE REGIONS Northeast Northwest Central Mpls-St. Paul Area Southern
Welcome Centers are located on major highways at key points in the state. Information Centers in these citiies are affliliated with Explore Minnesota Tourism and provide statewide travel information. In the Twin Cities area, these information centers are in downtown Minneapolis, St. Paul, St. Louis Park and Mall of America. Two centers are open seasonally; the others operate year-round. 4 Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner • exploreminnesota.com
EASY TO GET HERE. EASY TO GET AROUND. Getting Around
The interstate highway system provides easy access to Minnesota with the east-west highways I-90 and I-94 and north-south I-35. There’s also access along the western border from nearby northsouth I-29 through the Dakotas.
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MI NNES OTA Transportation
Air Transportation
There are more than 125 public airports in Minnesota, the largest being MSP International Airport in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. A dozen major airlines service Minnesota including Air Canada, Air Tran, American, Delta, Frontier, Great Lakes, Icelandair, KLM, Southwest, Spirit, Sun Country and United. FLIGHT TIME TO MPLS-ST PAUL INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Atlanta, GA
2:41
Boston, MA
3:10
Cleveland, OH
2:10
Dallas, TX
2:20
Denver, CO
1:50
Los Angeles, CA
3:20
Miami, FL
3:50
Mexico City, Mexico
6:30
Montreal, Quebec
3:05
New York, NY
3:05
Regina, Sask.
2:45
San Francisco, CA
3:30
Toronto, Ontario
3:35
Washington, D.C.
2:43
Train Travel
Some of the state’s best scenery is found along Amtrak’s Empire Builder route through Minnesota. The train serves Winona, Red Wing, St. Paul, St. Cloud, Staples, Detroit Lakes and Fargo-Moorhead. The Twin Cities Passenger Station is located in St. Paul at Union Depot, 240 Kellogg Blvd. E.
2018 Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner is published by Premier Travel Media for Explore Minnesota. Premier Travel Media 621 Plainfield Road • Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527 630-794-0696 630-794-0652 (FAX) PUBLISHER:
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EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS:
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261 TRAIN & TRAINYARD. PHOTO CREDIT: ADAM J. FORD All rights reserved. Materials may not be reproduced without written permission of the publisher.
6 Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner • exploreminnesota.com
TH
J E B OIN ES . ME TD M EA BER LI S N GE HI T ST OR Y.
ENGAGING
WAYS TO
EXPERIENCE HIT THE ROAD Visit our 26 historic sites and museums around the state—including Split Rock Lighthouse (Two Harbors), Mille Lacs Indian Museum & Trading Post (Onamia), and Mill City Museum (Minneapolis).
TOUR A GRAND HISTORIC HOME IN ST. PAUL Explore “Minnesota’s Downton Abbey”—the James J. Hill House. Or attend a special event at the Alexander Ramsey House.
61 71
Split Rock Lighthouse
Forest History Center Grand Rapids
169
Comstock House Moorhead
Charles A. Lindbergh Historic Site Little Falls
North of Two Harbors
2
Enjoy ongoing visitor favorites like Minnesota’s Greatest Generation or limited-time exhibits like The 1968 Exhibit (now–Jan. 21, 2019). Minnesota History Center, St. Paul.
Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Trading Post Onamia
North West Company Fur Post
Mill City Museum
Pine City
Minneapolis
Minnesota History Center
10
St. Paul
Historic Fort Snelling St. Paul
SEE AWARDWINNING EXHIBITS
Folsom House Taylors Falls
James J. Hill House St. Paul
Oliver Kelley Farm
Alexander Ramsey House
Minnehaha Depot
Elk River
35
St. Paul
Marine Mill
Minneapolis
Marine on St. Croix
Sibley Historic Site Mendota
212
SAVE WITH A GROUP
Minnesota State Capitol St. Paul
Lac qui Parle Mission Watson
Birch Coulee Battlefield Morton
Lower Sioux Agency Morton
Harkin Store New Ulm
14
W.W. Mayo House
52
Get social with history! Adult group rates are available for groups of 10 people or more. Call 1-844-667-8679 to book a group tour.
Le Sueur
Fort Ridgely Fairfax
Traverse Des Sioux St. Peter
Jeffers Petroglyphs Comfrey
90 Historic Forestville
35
Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park
PLAN YOUR VISIT MNHS.ORG • 1-844-MNSTORY exploreminnesota.com • Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner 7
MI NNESOTA Fa� Colors
HIKING TRAILS NEAR SILVER BAY. PHOTO CREDIT: EMILY KENT
The state is filled with fall foliage routes enveloped by captivating color. ’Tis the season. In Minnesota, that doesn’t mean turkey and fruitcake. It refers to the feast for the eyes known as leaf-peeping. In autumn, get the sign-up sheet ready, for Minnesotans become avid voyeurs of the state’s glorious forests as soon as it’s time to stow away the bathing suits (well, almost). The drama features flaming maples and sumac, birch and aspen garbed in gold and
bust working harbor of Duluth (watch for the replica Viking ship heralding those rumored explorers of centuries ago). Scores of well-marked scenic overlooks offer plenty of Scores of well-marked photo ops as well as walking scenic overlooks offer trails that wind along the plenty of photo ops as many rivers cascading into well as walking trails the lake, each snaking back that wind along the into the Superior National Forest, pristine and undemany rivers cascading veloped. into the lake, each
the deep green frame of native pines. The fall color show begins in mid-September in the north and continues glowing through late October at the state’s southern border. Tours ranging from an afternoon to several days are so memorable that one is not enough; customers return not only later in the season but year after year, eager to retrace favorite viewing routes and explore new ones.
snaking back into the Superior National Forest, pristine and undeveloped.
The state’s largest lake is, of course, Lake Superior, and leaf-peeping is grandest (and earliest) along its north shore. The drive begins at the ro-
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Split Rock Lighthouse, a photo-ready icon, commands one of these captivating outlooks, followed by the working mines of Silver Bay. Continue the drive north to the plummeting Caribou Falls, Temper-
FALL HIKE IN FATHER HENNEPIN STATE PARK, ISLE. PHOTO CREDIT: DOUGLAS ANDERSON
ance River (root beer in color, thanks to the iron-rich soil it splices), foaming Cascade River and more, all the way to Grand Portage, bordering Canada. It’s easy to see why this route is designated an “All-American Drive.” For inland viewing, trace Hwy. 1 through the Superior National Forest to Ely. Linger in Ely to visit its famed International Wolf Center and American Bear Center, or simply watch for some of the 155 species of birds making their way south. Ely’s Boathouse Brewpub offers rustic dining, while Chocolate Moose is a longtime foodie landmark. Continuing southwest, the circle drive skirting deep, blue glacial lakes is anchored by the mining town of Virginia. Its
SCENIC BEAUTY AT BANNING STATE PARK, SANDSTONE. PHOTO CREDIT: SAIBAL GHOSH
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MI NNES OTA Fa� Colors rich story, spun by immigrant workers in nearby iron mines, is celebrated at Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park, aglow with the forest’s flaming maples. Guided tours escort visitors, via an underground elevator, deep down to where miners once worked. Back at the surface, Virginia’s 40-acre Olcutt Park Greenhouse and Botanical Garden displays exotic palms and plants. Nearby Eveleth boasts the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame, where fans can get an inside look at why and how this hardscrabble region scores above its weight in annual state tournaments. The west-central byroads of Minnesota blaze with maple, basswood and aspen, set off by rusty oaks and the old-growth pines for which the region is famous. The jewel crowning the route running north from Park Rapids to Bemidji is Itasca State Park (Minnesota’s oldest and second-largest state park). It’s here, at the headwaters of the Mississippi River, that visitors can step across the spot where the
great river begins as a tiny stream before picking up steam and muscling its way to the Gulf of Mexico. The Headwaters Café is open through September. Bus tours often arrange for guests to jump aboard the Chester Charles II tour boat for two-hour, naturalist-guided jaunts through early October.
Studio Cruise, where artists open their studios and share their work.
Clad in your new red-and-blackchecked lumber jacket, pose for a photo beside the larger-than-life statues of Paul Bunyan and Babe, his legendary Blue Ox. Paul’s alleged baby shoes reside in the nearby visitors center. The town’s historic Before departing, Chief Theater is home to peruse the town of year-round performancBemidji (“First City on es, before which a pint at the Mississippi”), where Bemidji Brewing may be welcome. Bemidji Woolen Mills
Lake Bemidji State Park hosts the last of the season’s wildflowers and provides peeks at scampering wildlife among its scenic bogs. Before departing, peruse the town of Betempts shoppers with midji (“First City on the locally crafted blankets, Catch up with the Mississippi again as it coursMississippi”), where Bemsweaters… es through Minneapolis idji Woolen Mills tempts and St. Paul and connects shoppers with locally with Minneapolis’ lovely Chain of Lakes. crafted blankets, sweaters and shirts, plus This urban parkland, where maples blaze yarn for DIYers. Handicrafts from nearby and willows weep their golden leaves, is Native American reservations are sold at a popular 50-mile drive that connects many local shops as well. In late October, Cedar Lake, Lake of the Isles, and lakes Bemidji invites tour groups to join its annual
MIC MAC LAKE, TETTEGOUCHE STATE PARK. PHOTO CREDIT: WAYNE MORAN
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SPLIT ROCK LIGHTHOUSE. PHOTO CREDIT: JUSTIN BAYSINGER
Calhoun, Harriet and Nokomis, home to brilliant boulevard trees and mansions rising behind them. The drive is so full of eye candy that it’s been named the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway. Don’t pass up a stop at Minnehaha Falls or at the casual seasonal eatery Sea Salt on Nokomis for tasty local fare. St. Paul’s stately Summit Avenue, leading to the Minnesota Capitol and lined with the city’s most beautiful homes, is an autumn must-see. Head east 25 miles to the ultra-scenic St. Croix River Valley, which divides the state from neighboring Wisconsin. Drive Hwy. 95 from Afton north to Taylors Falls to catch the peak of color.
MINNEHAHA FALLS MINNEAPOLIS. PHOTO CREDIT: GREG LUNDGREN
Stillwater, the center point of this route, is a picture-perfect, old-time river town where logging on the St. Croix once reigned and supported all those gorgeous Victorian homes and church spires that overlook downtown. Today, its charming Main Street is populated by antique shops, a winery and a brewery, stores for outdoor gear and cabin kitsch, and one-of-a-kind eateries that showcase homemade sausage and gelato and everything in between. Afton and Taylors Falls also offer more than their share of unique spending and dining opportunities. Tracing the Mississippi River from the Twin Cities south along the Great River Road provides prime leaf-peeping well into October. In historic Red Wing, a frequent stop for railroad and riverboat passengers, a bluff perched above the picturesque
town makes for a challenging hike and great place to spot bald eagles. The historic St. James Hotel is adept at serving group meals aside the river, and the iconic Red Wing Pottery and Red Wing Shoes (think sturdy boots) assure a workout for the wallet. Follow Hwy. 61 farther south along the river, past apple orchards with their tempting roadside stands, aiming at the southeastern tip of the state and the deeply wooded bluffs along the Root River. Here, little Lanesboro provides an alluring glimpse of days gone past, including antique shops and galleries and Amish buggies bringing wares to the farmers market. Amish tours lead folks deeper into the tangle of country roads dressed in their fall finest. 3
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MI NNES OTA Minneapolis- St. Paul Area
MARJORIE MCNEELY CONSERVATORY AT THE COMO PARK ZOO
Striking examples of horticultural splendor can be found throughout the region. 12 Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner • exploreminnesota.com
ELOISE BUTLER WILDFLOWER GARDEN. PHOTO CREDIT: MELANIE MAHONEN
LYNDALE PARK ROSE GARDE Minneapolis On the edge of Lake Harriet within 61acre Lyndale Park in Minneapolis, this 1.5acre gem is the second-oldest public rose garden in the United States. The garden layout has not been altered since its initial planting in 1908, with 62 rectangular The arboretum is hardly alone. Minneplots in its central section filled with more apolis-St. Paul is replete with impressive than 4,000 plants and 250 species. gardens and nature centers that will inDuring peak season, the garden contains spire patrons of all ages. Here are some more than 60,000 blooms. of the best the region has to Lyndale Park also features offer. The Minnesota the famed Heffelfinger Landscape Fountain, a bronze-andELOISE BUTLER Arboretum in marble structure imported WILDFLOWER Chaska was voted from Italy. GARDEN AND BIRD Perhaps what wowed the nation is the arboretum’s more than 1,200 acres of manicured gardens, woods and prairies, accessible via 12.5 miles of trails and garden paths. Or maybe visitors are dazzled by its 5,000 plant varieties and species.
best botanical garden
Minnesota, with its 10,000-plus lakes and acres of forest, has earned a reputation as a state teeming with natural beauty. In the Minneapolis-St. Paul region, some of that beauty comes in the form of exquisitely cultivated civic gardens and woods. In particular, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska was voted best botanical garden in the country by the readers of USA Today.
SANCTUARY in the country by the MARJORIE MCNEELY Minneapolis USA readers of CONSERVATORY Founded in Minneapolis in Today. St. Paul 1907, this wildflower haven First opened to the public in is the oldest public native 1915 and located next to Como Park Zoo plant garden in the country. The propin St. Paul, the Marjorie McNeely Conerty spans 15 acres of diverse landscape servatory features indoor and outdoor including woodlands, wetlands and praigardens filled with exotic plants and floral rie habitats, with more than 600 native displays. Among the most notable gardens plants and 140 bird species. The garden and galleries are the Sunken Garden, which is maintained in a wild rustic state with a offers five seasonal flower shows under a trail winding through lesser-known parts glass-covered roof; the Ordway Garden, of the sanctuary. exploreminnesota.com • Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner 13
MI NNES OTA Minneapolis- St. Paul Area
THE JAPANESE GARDEN AT NORMANDALE COLLEGE
containing a bonsai gallery in a Japanese-inspired landscape; the Enchanted Garden, a haven for butterflies; the Orchid House, featuring award-winning varieties of orchid species; and the Palm Dome, a 64-foottall crystal dome that houses more than 150 tropical palm and cycad species, some more than a century old. MINNESOTA LANDSCAPE ARBORETUM Chanhassen The arboretum was established in 1958, and its grounds hold many collections of plants, including iris, wildflowers, dahlias, clematis, ornamental grasses, and cultivated and hardy shrub roses. It also offers special focus areas such as home demonstration gardens, perennial and annual gardens, a rock garden and a Japanese garden. Visitors can walk or bike
the scenic and hilly 3-mile drive past wildflowers, wetlands and sculpture gardens. The restful environment MINNESOTA LANDSCAPE ARBORETUM ROSES houses many benches across 1,200 acres of consists of traditional Japanese features land overlooking lush trees, lakes, founincluding the Bentendo, an arched-roof tains and floral displays. hexagon-shaped building constructed of redwood; the Taiko-bashi, a drum-shaped bridge; a garden lagoon created from a porNORMANDALE tion of Green Heron Pond; stone lanterns JAPANESE GARDEN Bloomington in a garden made from hand-carved granite and shipped from Japan; streams and waOn the grounds of Normandale Comterfalls. The garden also contains more than munity College in Bloomington sits the 300 artfully maintained trees and shrubs, Normandale Japanese Garden, a 2-acre and is open year-round at no charge. 3 oasis where the hectic world is left behind. Established in 1964, the garden
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!
FUN FOR EVERYONE
ALL OF YOUR FAVORITE GAMES
$1 Blackjack, 3 & 4 card poker, Pai Gow Poker, EZ Bacarrat and of course Texas Hold’em Poker. Daily poker tournaments for every level of player. No comission or ante on any game.
LIVE HARNESS HORSE RACING May – Sept. Free Admission & Family Friendly. Simulcast wagering on all breeds year around.
TROUT AIR FISHING EXPERIENCE You Catch’em, We Cook’em! All Summer Long have a true MN experience where you catch the freshest trout in our pond and we cook it for you in the restaurant.
ENTERTAINMENT FOR EVERYONE Monthly comedy shows, BINGO and many events throughout the year.
LOCAL. FRESH. DELICIOUS.
REAL ACTION. REAL CLOSE.
Get hooked on our delicious dishes made with the freshest local ingredients at Trout Air Tavern.
exploreminnesota.com • Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner 15
MI NNES OTA
LEIF ERIKSON PARK & ROSE GARDEN
Gardens around the State Minneapolis-St. Paul isn’t the state’s only region awash with floral beauty. Here are several other stunning cultivated nature centers worth a visit. LEIF ERIKSON PARK AND THE DULUTH ROSE GARDEN Duluth Along the shore of Lake Superior in Duluth, Leif Erikson Park is a popular retreat with a lovely rose garden. With more than 3,000 rose bushes and a variety of other flowers and plants, and more than 100 different varieties of rose bushes throughout the English-style garden, the park is a prime walking destination.
Other highlights include a replica of Leif Erikson’s Viking ship and a marble stage with castle-like towers on each end. The park also offers direct access to more than 3 miles of walking and biking paths. LINNAEUS ARBORETUM St. Peter Founded in 1973, the Linnaeus Arboretum in St. Peter covers 125 acres, including the 70-acre Coneflower Prairie added in 2008. The arboretum contains more than a dozen formal gardens and restored natural areas including wetlands, forests and woods. The three major ecosystems found in the state are represented: the conifer forest in the north, the prairies in the south and west, and the deciduous forest in between. A fourth area includes cultivated gardens and trees that were introduced from other regions of the world. There are more than 114 species of trees and shrubs in the arboretum, and more than 150 species of birds have been sighted throughout the area. MUNSINGER CLEMENS GARDENS St. Cloud Munsinger Gardens (14 acres) and Clemens Gardens (7 acres) sit adjacent to one another on the bank of the Mississippi River next to St. Cloud University. Munsinger Gardens, which was primarily constructed
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in the 1930s, is an informal garden filled with flower-bordered paths that wind through tall pines. Clemens Gardens was developed in the 1990s and contains six European-style gardens with American plantings and fountains. OLCOTT PARK GREENHOUSE Virginia This 4,500-square-foot greenhouse in Virginia, on Minnesota’s Iron Range, is free and open to the public year-round. The three-room greenhouse dates from the 1930s and features a central room containing exotic plants ranging in size from small specimens to mature Ponderosa lemon trees, along with cacti, succulents, large agave, palm and ficus specimens. MINNESOTA GOOSE GARDEN Sandstone North of Hinckley in Sandstone, this 5-acre garden in the shape of a Canada goose opened in 2013 after many years of development. It contains more than 400 native species that were used by local Ojibwe tribes in the late 1800s. The flowers, plants and trees, which include wild roses, downy yellow violets, cottonwood and hemlock, are accompanied by 21 sculpted animal totems. The garden is open to the public June-October. 3
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MI NNES OTA Minneapolis- St. Paul Area
TURNBLAD MANSION
Historic homes preserve vestiges of the Twin Cities’ past and provide peeks into the lives of society’s upper crust. The castle-like Turnblad Mansion, home of the American Swedish Institute, and other grand historic houses in the Twin Cities give visitors a chance to dream of opulence and connect with local history. Studded with turrets, towers and gables, the 1908 Turnblad Mansion was built by Swedish immigrant Swan Turnblad, a civic leader and publisher of the largest Swedish language newspaper in America, to impress
sculpted ceilings. Room styles vary, from the Moorish den to the Baroque music room. Furnishings of special note include 11 porcelain tiled stoves from Sweden. Also on display are collections of Swedish glass, textiles, and decorative and fine arts. There’s an ambitious sched“The history of the mansion ule of changing exhibitions is linked to the rise of the Furnishings of of Scandinavian art as well. immigrant population,” says special note include Around Christmas, Nordic Bruce Karstadt, president of holiday rooms spotlight custhe American Swedish Insti11 porcelain tiled toms practiced in Sweden, tute. “Swan Turnblad made stoves… Norway, Denmark, Iceland his fortune by marketing and Finland. toward a working-class immigrant population that was rising into the “The best is the premium tour, which is middle class. His story is part genius, part two hours long and includes a tour focushard work and part luck.” ing on the mansion’s design coupled with a craft activity,” says Karstadt. The premium Tours of the 33-room limestone mastours cost $25 per person and are best for terpiece showcase intricately carved groups up to 20 people. oak, walnut and mahogany interiors with the community. Family trips to Europe inspired the home’s French chateau style. It is one of 40 mansions on Park Avenue’s “Golden Mile” in the Phillips West neighborhood of midtown Minneapolis.
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TURNBLAD GRAND HALL exploreminnesota.com • Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner 19
MI NNES OTA Minneapolis- St. Paul Area
JAMES J. HILL HOUSE
The Turnblad Mansion is attached to the American Swedish Institute’s modern Nelson Cultural Center. Groups can eat in the acclaimed Fika Café or arrange for a meal in one of the center’s private rooms. “The best way to experience any culture is through food, and Swedish culture is no exception,” Karstadt says. “What could be better than wrapping up a tour with a plate of Swedish meatballs?” St. Paul’s fashionable Summit Avenue, the longest stretch of Gilded Age mansions remaining in the country, is home to the 1891 James J. Hill House. The massive red sandstone “fortress,” done in the Richardsonian Romanesque style popular at the time, symbolized the success of the builder of the Great Northern Railway. Set on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, the 42-room Hill House—with 22 fireplaces and 13 bathrooms—was once
the largest private residence in the state. Guests marvel at the chandeliers, heavy wood doors, grand staircase, and elaborately carved panels of oak and mahogany.
bring food to the dining room above. The house had the most advanced mechanical systems of the day, including central heating, indoor plumbing, electronic security, and gas and electric lighting.
Most impressive are the 100-foot-long James Hill, an unlikely millionaire, lost an reception hall and two-story, skylighted eye in a childhood bow-and-arrow acciart gallery with a built-in 1,006-pipe organ. dent, and ended his formal education at Some of the 10 Hill children may have age 14 when his father died, at which point played the organ, and organists were hired the young man had to take to perform. Behind a hidden clerk jobs to help his family. door in the dining room’s The huge basement, Hill went on to build a railroad wall paneling is a walk-in safe with an inlaid that stretched west across where the silver was kept. marble floor, had the Rocky Mountains to the wooden clothes Pacific Ocean and Canada, The huge basement, with and he owned banks, mills an inlaid marble floor, had dryers of a sort… and other businesses, too. wooden clothes dryers of After his wife’s death the a sort—wooden racks that house was donated to the Roman Catholic pulled out from the wall and were heated Archdiocese of St. Paul, which occupied by pipes underneath. This level also the building for 53 years before turning it contained quarters for 12 live-in servants over to the Minnesota Historical Society and a kitchen featuring a dumbwaiter to
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in 1978. Group tours ($8 a person) last 75 minutes and include a 10-minute video. Another Minnesota Historical Society property is St. Paul’s Alexander Ramsey House, one of the nation’s best preserved
ALEXANDER RAMSEY AND GRANDDAUGHTER
Victorian-era homes. It belonged to Minnesota’s first territorial governor and contains thousands of original family items and furnishings. Costumed guides provide a glimpse into the lives of the Ramsey family and their servants, and hint at what life was like after the Civil War in the wealthy Irvine Park neighborhood. Visitors see exquisite interiors accented by carved walnut Customized guides woodwork, marble fireplaces and hint at what life was crystal chandeliers. The Ramseys like after the Civil moved into the house in 1872 afWar in the wealthy ter Anna Ramsey’s trip to a New York department store, where she Irvine Park neighbought enough furnishings to fill borhood.” two boxcars. Alexander Ramsey was not only a territorial governor, but also served as mayor of St. Paul, governor of the new state, U.S. senator and U.S. secretary of war. President Rutherford B. Hayes and his wife dined at the Ramsey House in 1878. Three generations of the family lived there until 1964, when the last granddaughter died. The 75-minute group tours are $7 a person. 3
ALEXANDER RAMSEY HOUSE
exploreminnesota.com • Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner 21
EVERYTHING UNDER ONE ROOF :::::::::::::::::::::: P L A N Y O U R T R I P, F I N D D I S C O U N T S + M O R E I N FO AT M A L LO FA M E R I C A . C O M / G R O U P S Mall of America® welcomes over 12,000 groups annually. From leisure group tours to family reunions to student performance groups, Mall of America offers something for everyone. Pre-registered groups are eligible for complimentary VIP Shopping Packages, discounted group rates on attractions, incentives for tour leaders and bus drivers, and much more! Contact: tourism@moa.net or 952.883.8643
22 Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner • exploreminnesota.com MALLOFAMERICA.COM /MALLOFAMERICA
@MALLOFAMERICA
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Minnesota’s historic mansions have a story to tell. MAYOWOOD MANSION Rochester Historic Mayowood Mansion is the former home of Dr. Charles H. Mayo, co-founder of the world-renowned Mayo Clinic in Rochester. Dr. Mayo and his wife Edith built Mayowood in 1911, extending the estate of more than 3,000 acres that included a man-made lake, greenhouses and several working farms. The 38-room home has most of its original furnishings and is decorated with artwork from around the world. PLUMMER HOUSE Rochester The Plummer House, an English Tudor mansion, is the former home of Henry S. Plummer, a member of the Mayo Clinic staff. The five-story house contains 49 rooms and occupies 11 acres that include beautiful gardens and a water tower. Innovative features of the house included a central vacuum system, an underground sprinkler system, inter-communications system, security system, dumbwaiter, electricity and gas lighting, the first gas furnace in the city, garage door openers, heated pool, water tower and many others. In 1901, Dr. Mayo asked Dr. Plummer to join the Mayo Clinic staff. This relationship lasted for the next 35 years. Dr. Plummer is given credit for many innovative ideas that were implemented during his tenure. Among the most outstanding was his invention of the pneumatic tube,
Celebrating 40 Years of Amazing at MNZOO.org
the communication system and recordkeeping system. HUBBARD HOUSE Mankato The R. D. Hubbard House, a French Second Empire home built in 1871, has been restored to its 1905 appearance. It features Tiffany lamps, silk wall coverings, cherry woodwork and three marble fireplaces. The grounds contain the Palmer Centennial Gardens and a carriage house with a variety of carriages and other antique vehicles. Hubbard was a prominent Mankato businessman who founded Hubbard Milling, which produced Mother Hubbard flour. GLENSHEEN MANSION Duluth This magnificent 39-room mansion and estate offers a rare view of the early 20th-century life of one of Minnesota’s most wealthy and influential families. Built
between 1905 and 1908 for Chester and Clara Congdon, Glensheen is an architectural and decorative arts masterpiece telling the story of the Northland’s mining history. Explore the Congdon estate, which includes over 12 acres of formal gardens, vegetable gardens, trails and a boathouse with pier on Lake Superior.
HUBBARD HOUSE
exploreminnesota.com • Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner 23
MI NNES OTA
HORMEL HISTORIC HOME Austin The former home of George A. Hormel, the founder of Hormel Foods, is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Built in 1871, the Greek Revival home features a unique children’s bedroom and honeycomb-designed ceilings. The adjoining Peace Garden will conjure memories of your grandmother’s garden with its varieties of old-fashioned flowers. Groups of 10 or more can schedule a guided tour. Catered meals and events can accommodate up to 200 guests in the attached banquet hall. LE DUC MANSION Hastings The home was built between 1862 and 1866 by William Gates LeDuc and his wife Mary near the Vermillion River. The LeDucs were prominent early settlers of Minnesota and played significant roles in the state’s growth from a territory to a state. Reservations are accepted for special events and group tours. DINEHART-HOLT HOUSE Slayton This beautiful Victorian home was built in 1891, the same year as the original Murray County Courthouse. Christopher Dinehart was so impressed with the courthouse’s architect, Frank Thayer of Mankato, that he hired Thayer to design a home for him. Dinehart was one of the founders of the State Bank of Slayton and later became its president. The Dineharts owned much farmland in the county and raised sheep, hogs and Jersey cattle. Flora Dinehart owned the first piano in the county, and the community would gather once a week to enjoy music. The Dineharts’ open-hearted hospitality was a well-known characteristic of the home. 3 24 Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner • exploreminnesota.com
2018
Minnesota
Saturdays & Sundays August 18 − September 30 • Discount Admission Rates for Groups • Live Entertainment • Unique Setting • Picnic Packages Available FREE Parking • Rain or Shine 9am − 7pm • 952.445.7361 renaissancefest.com • @MNRenaissance Located in Shakopee off Highway 169
Minneapolis- S t. Paul
VISITOR INFORMATION
C of C: Chamber of Commerce | CVB: Convention and Visitors Bureau | C & C: Civic and Commerce
APPLE VALLEY C OF C/CVB 952-432-8422 visitapplevalley.com
HASTINGS AREA C OF C 651-437-6775 visithastingsmn.org
ROSEVILLE VISITORS ASSN. 877-980-3002 visitroseville.com
BLOOMINGTON CVB 800-346-4289 bloomingtonmn.org
INVER GROVE HEIGHTS CVB 800-584-4281 visitigh.com
DISCOVER ST. LOUIS PARK 952-426-4047 discoverstlouispark.com
BUFFALO AREA C OF C & TOURISM 763-682-4902 buffalochamber.org
LAKEVILLE CVB 952-469-2020 visitlakeville.org
VISIT SAINT PAUL 800-627-6101 visitsaintpaul.com
MEET MINNEAPOLIS 888-676-6757 minneapolis.org
VISIT SHAKOPEE 800-574-2150 visitshakopee.org
MINNEAPOLIS NORTHWEST TOURISM 800-541-4364 minneapolisnorthwest.com
STILLWATER & OAK PARK HEIGHTS CVB 651-351-1717 discoverstillwater.com
VACATION MINNEAPOLIS SOUTH 866-324-2620 minneapolissouth.com
TWIN CITIES GATEWAY 763-785-5640 tcgateway.com
BURNSVILLE CVB 800-521-6055 burnsvillemn.com CHISAGO LAKES AREA C OF C 651-257-1177 chisagolakeschamber.com EAGAN CVB 866-324-2620 eaganmn.com EXCELSIOR-LAKE MINNETONKA C OF C 952-474-6461 excelsior-lakeminnetonkachamber.com EXPLORE EDINA 952-806-9064 exploreedina.com FALLS C OF C 715-483-3580 fallschamber.org
NORTH BRANCH AREA C OF C 651-674-4077 northbranchchamber.com RICHFIELD TOURISM 612-866-5100 visitrichfield.com
WACONIA C OF C 952-442-5812 destinationwaconia.org EXPLORE WHITE BEAR 651-653-5122 explorewhitebear.org
exploreminnesota.com • Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner 25
M I N N E S O TA Southern Region
PIPESTONE NATIONAL MONUMENT CIRCLE TRAIL
Pipestone National Monument, a sacred spot to this day, showcases an intriguing aspect of Native American culture. The pinkish, soft but durable pipestone clay found at this quarry site in southwest Minnesota has been carved into pipes by countless generations of American Indians. The pipes are used for prayer with the belief that its smoke carried the prayer to the Great Spirit. Many tribes journeyed to this sacred spot, and even enemies laid down their arms and entered the quarries peacefully. The use of pipes derived from these grounds went well beyond Plains tribes.
ditional quarry resources for their pipes,” “Many visitors do not realize that pipes were Johnston says. “To preserve this quarry such a big trade item among Native Amerthat is sacred to so many tribes, icans,” states Bud Johnston, leaders banded together with president of the Keepers of the Many visitors do a congressman, and in 1937, Sacred Tradition of Pipemakers. not realize that Pipestone National MonuExamples of handiwork from pipes were such ment came into being.” Pipestone have been found in Mexico and on the Pacific Coast a big trade item Upon entering Pipestone Naof the U.S and Canada. among Native tional Monument, take notice Americans of the Three Maidens. It was “Pipes began to be commercialat this traditional entrance to ly produced in the early 1900s, the quarries that those coming in would and manufacturers were looking for ad-
26 Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner • exploreminnesota.com
THREE MAIDENS. PHOTO CREDIT: ERICA VOLKIR
leave an offering of tobacco for the guardian spirits. Of the 79 petroglyphs placed around the Three Maidens, 17 of the historic carvings are now on display at the visitor center. Visiting Pipestone National Monument is a truly inspiring experience. The best way
CARVING DEMONSTRATIONS PHOTO CREDIT: ERICA VOLKIR
to begin is by watching the visitor center’s 22-minute film Pipestone: An Unbroken Legacy. There’s also a museum featuring exhibits about Pipestone’s unique clay, American Indian culture and its 3,000year history. Pipes from the early 1900s and the remaining petroglyphs are featured items.
KEEPERS OF THE SACRID TRADITION OF PIPEMAKERS
Visitors have the opportunity to interact with Native American pipemakers as they demonstrate their skill. The Pipestone Indian Shrine Association operates from the visitor center from April to mid-October. Other crafts are demonstrated, as well. “We use all the stone, or give it back to Mother Earth,” Johnston says. “It’s what we were taught.”
exploreminnesota.com • Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner 27
M I N N E S O TA Southern Region
CIRCLE TRAIL. PHOTO CREDIT NATIONAL PARK SERVICE
The nearby town of Pipestone has antique Groups should take advantage of the nature and gift shops, the Pipestone County Muwalk along the Circle Trail and allow at least seum and Historic Calumet Inn, which is 45 minutes for the full experience. Points listed on the National Register of Historof interest along the trail include Winnewisic Places. The Gift Shop & Gallery of the sa Falls, the Oracle, Old Stone Face and Keepers of the Sacred Tradithe native tallgrass prairie. The tion of Pipemakers, located walk is wheelchair-accessible Groups should take in the Historic Rock Island with assistance, and a guide Depot, hosts workshops on can be made available with advantage of the subjects from storytelling to advance notice. nature walk along dance and drum making. A the Circle Trail and 60-minute session lets each Quarrying is still being done participant make his or her today at Pipestone and is ofallow at least 45 own pipestone pendant. A ten the underappreciated part minutes for the full two-day pipemaking workshop of traditional pipemaking. It’s a is also available. slow, labor-intensive process experience. that uses tools not much difBegin planning your visit to ferent than those used cenPipestone National Monument at nps.gov/ turies ago. “We founded our pipemakers pipe, or call 507-825-5464, ext. 214. For organization in 1996 with 35 carvers. Toinformation on lodging, dining and area atday there are eight left,” Johnston says. tractions, contact the Pipestone Chamber “Quarrying is hard work, and for the young of Commerce & Visitors Bureau; pipepeople it’s difficult to make a living.” 28 Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner • exploreminnesota.com
stoneminnesota.com/visitors, 507-825-3316. To schedule a visit or workshop at Keepers of the Sacred Tradition of Pipemakers, visit pipekeepers.org or call Bud Johnston directly at 605-595-5229. 3
Make your travels Visit our 60’ Jolly Green
Giant FREE in Giant Park Tourist Information Center
Motorcoach Friendly Giant Memorabilia Museum located in Chamber/CVB Office Blue Earth, GG & DBT Souvenirs
Blue Earth Area Chamber of Commerce & Convention & Visitors Bureau www.blueearthchamber.com chamber@bevcomm.net WORLD’S LARGEST PIPE & KEEPERS DEPOT . PHOTO CREDIT: ERICA VOLKIR
507-526-2916
GREAT RIVER
S H A K E S PFESTIVAL EARE “The best Shakespeare you will see for a thousand miles.” -TripAdvisor review
Seaso n availa Passes ble n ow! grsf. 507.4 org 74.79 00
Season 15 6/22 - 8/5, 2018 Winona, MN
Venus in Fur All’s Well That Ends Well A Midsummer Night’s Dream Shakespeare in Love (Regional Premiere)
exploreminnesota.com • Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner 29
M I N N E S O TA Southern Region
MYSTERY CAVE FORESTVILLE STATE PARK. PHOTO CREDIT: JIM HOFFMAN
Explore the fascinating natural wonders of Niagara Cave and Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park. Historic Bluff Country in southeast Minnesota lies south of Interstate 90 and east of the Mississippi River. Its communities provide a multitude of recreational opportunities, breathtaking scenery, shopping and dining options, and local festivals and events.
But few of the area’s offerings are more memorable than its two magnificent caves. These caves provide groups an opportunity to venture into the deep without having to crawl around or get dirty. Bring a jacket— it’s always 48 degrees underground.
The 1-mile walk, which involves a 275-foot descent and ascent, cannot accommodate wheelchairs. Scheduled tours depart regularly from April to The 1-mile early November, with private walk involves a tours available by reservation. Group rates are available 275-foot descent weekdays for 15 or more paid and ascent… participants.
NIAGARA CAVE Harmony One of Bluff Country’s premier attractions, Niagara Cave in Harmony has been rated as one of the top 10 caves in the United States by a variety of outdoor recreation websites. Visitors marvel at the passageways sculpted by water from an underground stream. Highlights of the guided tour are 450 million-year-old fossils, massive stalactites
30 Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner • exploreminnesota.com
and a 60-foot waterfall. Are you feeling romantic? More than 400 ceremonies have been performed in the subterranean wedding chapel.
Above ground, there are plenty of fun options to fill your day. Seek your fortune by mining for authentic gemstones. From a bag of mining rough, wash away
NIAGARA CAVE
NIAGARA CAVE
the clutter to expose those precious stones. You’ll be panning just like the old-timers did for gold. After amassing your riches, the 18-hole miniature golf course awaits. Niagara Cave’s picnic area is perfect for group meals. FORESTVILLE/MYSTERY CAVE STATE PARK Preston A visit to this state park in Preston presents natural wonders above and below ground. The first stop is Mystery Cave, a collection of fossils, stalactites, stalagmites and beautiful pools. With 13 miles of underground passages, this is Minnesota’s longest cave. Park naturalists lead a variety of tours.
The popular Scenic Tour is one hour and requires a 3/4-mile walk on paved trails and bridges. This stroller- and wheelchair-accessible tour features excellent examples of cave mineral deposits. On the Lantern Tour, conducted weekend afternoons in the summer, lanterns provide the only light.
Above ground, groups step back to 1899 at Historic Forestville, a restored 1800s village operated by the Minnesota Historical Society. Experience the Meighen family store filled with merchandise from the late 19th century. In the house, there’s always something good cooking in the kitchen.
The physically challenging Geology Tour, following rugged gravel paths and sandstone stairs, explains the process that shaped Mystery Cave. The Advanced Educational Tour provides even more detailed cave geology. The Wild Caving Tour is for those looking for a real adventure. Group and student rates are available.
Continue to the garden, barn and fields. Costumed interpreters lead groups through the store and residence and perform chores outdoors. Adult and student/ youth groups of 15 or more can take part in a variety of hands-on programs that explore rural life in southeast Minnesota. 3
exploreminnesota.com • Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner 31
I T I N E R A R Y Southern Region
PICTURESQUE TOWNS AND MARVELOUS ATTRACTIONS IN MINNESOTA’S SOUTHEAST
7
There’s much to see in historic Harmony, Preston, Winona, Kellogg, Wabasha and Red Wing. Bring your camera for abundant photo ops.
UNIQUE EXPERIENCES
• • • • • • •
Amish culture & history National Trout Center Minnesota Marine Art Museum Lark Toys National Eagle Center Red Wing Shoe Company Museum Red Wing Pottery
Duration: Three days Available: Year-round This itinerary is ideal for: Adults 21+
DAY 1 AMISH TOURS OF HARMONY amish-tours.com Let Amish Tours of Harmony guide you through the countryside stopping at several Amish farms. Shops feature handmade baskets, quilts, furniture, baked goods and much more. Experienced guides share the Amish culture and history. Amish tours take you back in time to observe the lifestyle of the 1800s, where horse & buggies, kerosene lamps and wood-burning stoves are still in use. Tours with meals available. NATIONAL TROUT CENTER, PRESTON nationaltroutcenter.org The National Trout Center seeks to conserve the natural and cultural heritage of trout and their cold-water environments. The public is engaged through education, practice and awareness. Several thousand miles of mineral-rich streams weave across the landscape and represent one of the highest concentrations of the rarest forms of freshwater on Earth. These streams support abundant populations of trout, which in turn, attract tens of thousands of anglers to the region each year. The National Trout Center can customize a learning experience for up to 50 visitors at a time. From fishing to geology to mushroom hunting, they can design a program tailored to your group. Continue west on Highway 16 to Winona and check-in at your hotel followed by dinner at a local favorite restaurant. Winona is one of the most beautiful cities in Minnesota, set between towering bluffs and the great Mississippi River.
DAY 2 Breakfast at your hotel and check out.
SHOPS AND STREET SCENES IN HARMONY
MARINE ART MUSEUM IN WINONA
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MINNESOTA MARINE ART MUSEUM, WINONA mmam.org The Minnesota Marine Art Museum features one of the most unique art collections in the Midwest, and an ambitious roster of temporary exhibitions and programs. Collection highlights include masterpieces by J.M.W. Turner, Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, Paul Gauguin, Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso, Georgia O’Keeffe, Winslow Homer, Leutze’s iconic “Washington Crossing the Delaware,” and many more. LARK TOYS, KELLOGG larktoys.com Take a stroll through the antique toy collection in cases and storefronts lining the hallway and scattered throughout the store. Enjoy thousands of toys from eras past. You may see Howdy Doody,
little green army men, Barbie, Erector sets, and much more. Next, peek through the viewing windows into the Lark Workshop for a glimpse into the creative toy-making process. Lunch on your own at Town & Country Cafe.
Take your photo with the world’s largest boot, dress up like an ironworker, and see how shoes are made at the flagship store in historic downtown Red Wing. Items from the company’s 110-year history are on display yearround throughout the store and museum. Admission is free and open seven days a week.
RED WING STONEWARE redwingstoneware.com The first pottery company in Red Wing, RW Stoneware Company started in 1877. It eventually became Red Wing Union Stoneware and then Red Wing Pottery. Today, Red Wing Stoneware hand-makes the classic zinc glaze products for Red Wing Pottery much the same it always has, in a 10,000–square-foot manufacturing facility. Standard tours are offered Monday-Friday, three times a day, and buses and tour groups are welcome by appointment. Shopping and lunch on your own on Historic Main Street in Red Wing. Depart southern Minnesota with fond memories.
NATIONAL EAGLE CENTER
NATIONAL EAGLE CENTER, WABASHA nationaleaglecenter.org Recently named the “#1 Family Attraction Worth Traveling For” in Minnesota in 2016 by FlipKey.com (TripAdvisor), the National Eagle Center is an environmental interpretive center on the banks of the Mississippi River in Wabasha. It offers wild eagle viewing, interactive exhibits, and cultural and historical displays. Live eagle programs conducted by a naturalist interpreter feature a live eagle and can be scheduled for individual groups. Arrive in Red Wing and check into your hotel. Dinner tonight is at one of Red Wing’s group-friendly restaurants, craft breweries or wineries.
DAY 3 Breakfast at your hotel and check out. RED WING SHOE COMPANY MUSEUM stores.redwing.com/red-wing-mn
RED WING SHOE STORE GIANT BOOT. PHOTO CREDIT: LISA MEYERS MCCLINTICK
exploreminnesota.com • Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner 33
Southern Region
VISITOR INFORMATION
C of C: Chamber of Commerce | CVB: Convention and Visitors Bureau | C & C: Civic and Commerce
ALBERT LEA CVB 800-345-8414 albertleatourism.org
HARMONY AREA C OF C 877-251-0606 exploreharmony.com
APPLETON AREA C OF C 320-289-1527 appletonmn.com
HENDERSON C OF C henderson-mn.com 507-248-3234
DISCOVER AUSTIN CVB 800-444-5713 austincvb.com BENSON C OF C 320-843-3618 bensonareachamber.com BIG STONE LAKE AREA C OF C 320-839-3284 bigstonelakechamber.com BLOOMING PRAIRIE C OF C 507-583-7573 bloomingprairie.com BLUE EARTH C OF C 507-526-2916 blueearthchamber.com CALEDONIA AREA C OF C 507-725-5477 caledoniamn.com CANNON FALLS AREA C OF C 507-263-2289, Ext. 2 cannonfalls.org ELYSIAN AREA C OF C 800-507-7787 elysianmn.com FAIRMONT CVB 800-657-3280 visitfairmontmn.com FARIBAULT AREA C OF C & TOURISM 800-658-2354 visitfaribault.com GRANITE FALLS AREA C OF C 320-564-4039 granitefallschamber.com
HOUSTON C OF C houstonmnchamber.com 507-896-4033 JACKSON AREA C OF C 507-847-3867 jacksonmn.com LACRESCENT C OF C 800-926-9480 lacrescentmn.com LAKE BENTON C OF C/CVB 507-368-9577 lakebenton.us LAKE CITY TOURISM 877-525-3248 lakecitymn.org LANESBORO AREA C OF C 800-944-2670 lanesboro.com LESUEUR AREA C OF C 507-665-2501 lesueurchamber.org LINCOLN COUNTY TOURISM 800-442-9854 lincolncounty-mn.us LUVERNE AREA C OF C/CVB 888-283-4061 luvernechamber.com MADELIA AREA C OF C 888-941-7283 visitmadelia.com MADISON AREA C OF C 320-598-7301 madisonmn.info VISIT MANKATO 800-697-0652 visitgreatermankato.com
MANTORVILLE AREA C OF C 866-313-8687 Mantorvilletourism.com MARSHALL AREA CVB 507-537-1865 visitmarshallmn.com MONTEVIDEO AREA C OF C 800-269-5527 montechamber.com
PRESTON AREA TOURISM 888-845-2100 prestonmntourism.com RED WING VCB 800-498-3444 redwing.org REDWOOD AREA C OF C & TOURISM 800-657-7070 redwoodfalls.org
MONTGOMERY C OF C 507-364-8888 montgomerychambermn.com
ROCHESTER CVB 800-634-8277 rochestercvb.org
MORTON C OF C 507-697-6912 mortonareachamber.org
RUSHFORD PETERSON VALLEY C OF C 507-864-3338 rushfordpetersonvalley.com
MOUNTAIN LAKE AREA C OF C 866-685-2531 mountainlakemn.com MURRAY COUNTY TOURISM 507-836-1147 murray-countymn.com
SAINT JAMES C OF C 866-375-2480 stjameschamberofcommerce. com SLEEPY EYE C OF C & CVB 800-290-0588 sleepyeyechamber.com
NEW PRAGUE C OF C 952-758-4360 newprague.com
SAINT PETER C OF C 800-473-3404 stpeterchamber.com
NEW ULM C OF C/CVB 888-463-9856 newulm.com
SLAYTON AREA C OF C 507-836-6902 slaytonchamber.com
NORTHFIELD AREA C OF C & CVB 800-658-2548 visitingnorthfield.com
SOUTHEAST MN HISTORIC Bluff Country 507-864-2992 bluffcountry.com
OLIVIA AREA C OF C 888-265-2676 www.oliviachamber.org OWATONNA C OF C & TOURISM 800-423-6466 visitowatonna.org PIPESTONE CVB 800-336-6125 pipestoneminnesota.com
34 Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner • exploreminnesota.com
SOUTHERN MN LAKES REGION 800-507-7787 mnlakesregion.com SPRINGFIELD C OF C/CVB 507-723-3508 springfieldmnchamber.org TRACY AREA C OF C 507-629-4021 tracymn.com
WABASHA-KELLOGG C OF C & CVB 800-565-4158 wabashamn.org WALNUT GROVE TOURISM INFO 800-528-7280 walnutgrove.org DISCOVER WASECA TOURISM 507-833-9281 discoverwaseca.com WATERVILLE C OF C 507-362-4609 watervillemn.com WESTERN MN PRAIRIE WATERS 866-866-5432 prairiewaters.com WHEATON C OF C 320-563-4110 cityofwheaton.com WINDOM AREA C OF C 800-794-6366 windomchamber.com VISIT WINONA 800-657-4972 visitwinona.com WORTHINGTON AREA C OF C & CVB 800-279-2919 worthingtonmnchamber.com ZUMBROTA VISITOR INFO 507-732-4282 ci.zumbrota.mn.us
exploreminnesota.com • Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner 35
M I N N E S O TA Northeast Region
SPLIT ROCK LIGHTHOUSE ON LAKE SUPERIOR AT SUNSET. PHOTO CREDIT: JACOB RICHARDS
For 60 years, the Split Rock Lighthouse beacon flashed its light across 20 miles of Lake Superior waters. Regulations today prohibit the light being used for navigation, but this iconic National Historic Landmark has plenty of stories to tell.
For 35 years, Lee Radzak has been the Minnesota Historical Society’s resident manager at Split Rock Lighthouse. If there is one thing he can share with visitors, it’s “how important the lighthouse was in safeguarding the ships on this often dangerous coast of Lake Superior.” By the early 20th century, iron ore from Minnesota’s Iron Range region was being loaded on freight-carrying ships at Duluth, the major port city on Lake Superior. The raw ore was shipped through the Great Lakes and unloaded at Lake Erie ports
36 Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner • exploreminnesota.com
serving Eastern steel plants and their blast furnaces. Indeed, the land and Lake Superior are connected. On Nov. 28, 1905, gale-force winds screamed across Lake Superior, damaging 29 ships. Nine of the ships lost were the uninsured property of U.S. Steel. This dangerous stretch of water needed a lighthouse, and a delegation led by U.S. Steel executives descended on Washington, D.C. The 7.6-acre facility was completed in 1910 and Split Rock Lighthouse was born.
visibility fell below 5 miles, they’d sound the fog horn every 20 seconds. Supplies were not readily available, so they needed to be skilled mechanics. By the early 1930s, the keepers added “tour guide” to their job description. In 1924, the Lake Superior International Highway was completed, making the lighthouse accessible by land. Keepers and their families could live at the lighthouse year-round. Tourists began to travel to the remote areas around Lake Superior and soon found their way to Split Rock Lighthouse. During the early 1930s, annual visitors numbered about 5,000. By 1938, keeper Franklin Covell reported that 27,000 visitors signed the guest book, but he estimated more than 100,000 had been to the lighthouse. The U.S. Lighthouse Service operated lighthouses in the early days and required a keeper to accompany any visitor to the lighthouse. Visiting hours were established, and in 1942 a gift shop opened. From 1939 until Split Rock was closed in 1969, the U.S. Coast Guard operated lighthouses and publicized Split Rock “as probably the most visited lighthouse in the United States.” Long-range radar and global positioning systems arose as navigational tools and deemed lighthouses obsolete, but Split Rock Lighthouse never missed a beat. The State of Minnesota obtained the scenic landmark in 1971, and in 1976 operational responsibility was transferred to the Minnesota Historical Society. Restored to its 1920s appearance, the original keeper’s dwelling was
For almost 15 years, the only way to access the lighthouse that guided freighters was by water. Isolated and under the harsh conditions often found on Lake Superior, the keepers Whenever worked at all hours to keep visibility fell below the kerosene beacon shining 5 miles, they’d and themselves supplied. sound the fog
horn…
The lighthouse operated during the May-December shipping season. Throughout the night, the keeper and two assistants kept watch and serviced the beacon in four-hour shifts. Whenever
exploreminnesota.com • Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner 37
M I N N E S O TA Northeast Region opened in 1980. The visitor center followed in 1986. As early as the 1930s, tour buses were welcomed at the lighthouse compound by the light keepers. That spirit of hospitality is still the same. “Fall is our busiest season. In fact, on some Saturdays during peak leaf color we’re so busy that those Saturdays are the only time we cannot accept reservations from group tours,” Radzak says. He adds, “When booking a tour, tell us about your group’s special interest and we can tailor a tour for them.” The visitor center’s 13-minute film, The Story of Split Rock Lighthouse, is the per-
fect introduction. The adjacent exhibit area reinforces the significance of Lake Superior shipping. Of course, an attraction of such historical significance has a well-stocked gift shop. Following the film is a tour led by an expert in 1920s period costume. Visitors are taken to the lighthouse and historic buildings. The Lighthouse Keeper’s House presents how the keeper, and later his family, survived this punitive and remote place. The Fog Signal Building and Oil House also contribute to the lighthouse story. Allow at least 45 minutes from arrival to departure. Visit online at mnhs.org/splitrock. Schedule your tour by calling 844-667-8679 or 218-226-6372. Email splitrock@ mnhs.org for more information. 3
SPLIT ROCK LIGHTHOUSE. PHOTO CREDIT: AMY PETERSON
38 Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner • exploreminnesota.com
PHOTO CREDIT: JAYME LARSON
Northeast Region
VISITOR INFORMATION
C of C: Chamber of Commerce | CVB: Convention and Visitors Bureau | C & C: Civic and Commerce
ASH RIVER TRAIL COMM. CLUB ashriver.com
ELY C OF C 800-777-7281 ely.org
CLOQUET AREA C OF C 800-554-4350 cloquet.com
VISIT GRAND RAPIDS 800-355-9740 visitgrandrapids.com HINCKLEY CVB 800-952-4282 hinckleymn.com
COOK COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU 888-922-5000 visitcookcounty.com CRANE LAKE VTB 800-362-7405 visitcranelake.com
INTERNATIONAL FALLS, RANIER & RAINY LAKE CVB 800-325-5766 rainylake.org
VISIT DULUTH 800-4-DULUTH visitduluth.com
IRON RANGE TOURISM BUREAU 800-777-8497 ironrange.org
EDGE OF THE WILDERNESS LODGING ASSN. 888-754-0011 edgeofthewilderness.com
KABETOGAMA LAKE ASSN. & TOURISM 800-524-9085 kabetogama.com
LAKE VERMILION RESORT ASSN. 800-648-5897 lakevermilionresorts.com MOOSE LAKE C OF C 218-485-4145 mooselakechamber.com PELICAN LAKE RESORT ASSN. 800-777-4690 orrpelicanlake.com PROCTOR TOURISM 218-624-3641 visitproctormn.com TWO HARBORS C OF C 800-777-7384 twoharborschamber.com
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I T I N E R A R Y Northeast Region
DISCOVER THE HISTORY, HERITAGE AND SPECIAL WILDLIFE OF NORTHERN MINNESOTA
6
Scenic train rides, nature’s creatures and special moments in history, from Duluth to Ely to Hibbing to Grand Rapids, make it a tour to remember.
UNIQUE EXPERIENCES • • • • • •
Great Lakes Aquarium Lake Superior Railroad Museum International Wolf Center North American Bear Center Greyhound Bus Museum Forest History Center
Duration: Four days Available: Year-round This itinerary is ideal for: Adults 21+
GREAT LAKES AQUARIUM SHIPWRECKS ALIVE EXHIBIT
DAY 1 Visit the Great Lakes Aquarium in Duluth. Discover species primarily found in the Great Lakes Basin, along with exhibits showcasing animals and their habitats. Educational and interpretive programs are available for groups to learn more about river otters, regional birds and freshwater fish. Check into your Duluth hotel before departing for dinner at one of Duluth’s group-friendly restaurants.
DAY 2 Breakfast at your hotel. What better way to see Duluth and Lake Superior than on the North Shore Scenic Railroad. The popular, 90-minute Duluth Zephyr trip takes you through downtown and along the shores of Lake Superior. The six-hour, full-day Two Harbors Turn route features a scenic ride and layover in beautiful Two Harbors for lunch, shopping and sightseeing; admission to the Lake Superior Railroad Museum is included with this ticket. The museum features 23 locomotives and more than 40 other displays of train cars. Railroads were a significant part of Minnesota’s iron ore history. OPTION: Meet your coach in Two Harbors and take a short drive to Gooseberry Falls to experience the thunderous roar of the upper, middle and lower falls. The Joseph Alexander Visitor Center features award-winning exhibits. Enjoy dinner at one of Duluth’s fine dining restaurants.
DAY 3
Breakfast and check out of your hotel before departing on a scenic drive to Ely. Visit the International Wolf Center for a close encounter with the resident wolf pack as they play, eat, sleep and tussle. Staff naturalists will guide you through educational programs, activities, or customized program content to discover the wolf/prey relationship. Wonderful exhibits share the story of this species. Downtown Ely is perfect for lunch on your own with time to visit the city’s one-of-a-kind shops and galleries. The North American Bear Center features live black bears in natural habitat with indoor and outdoor viewing areas. More than 50 video exhibits of wild Minnesota bears and a variety of daily programs shed light on bear behavior.
NORTH AMERICAN BEAR CENTER. PHOTO CREDIT: LUCY HAWTHORNE
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OPTIONAL: Located in the Superior National Forest, Ely offers a wide range of outdoor activities. For those who cannot get
enough winter adventure, Chilly Dogs Sled Dog Trips might be the answer. Along with knowledgeable guides, you’ll drive your own team of sled dogs over wilderness trails with top-notch equipment. Groups are welcome. Check into your Ely hotel before dinner at one of six Ely Chamber President’s Circle restaurants.
DAY 4
Forest History Center. Visit Northwood #1, a white pine logging camp. Meet the cook, clerk, blacksmith and other lumberjacks. Continue your visit with a 1934 Forest Service patrolman and get a bird’s-eye view from atop the 100-foot fire tower. Browse the visitor center’s interactive exhibits and gift shop featuring items special to northern Minnesota. Depart northern Minnesota with cherished memories.
Hotel checkout and breakfast before departing on a picturesque drive to Hibbing, the birthplace of the U.S. bus industry. Housed in the Greyhound Bus Museum are 13 historic buses. The story is told of Carl Wickman and Andrew “Bus Andy” Anderson, who started their bus service in 1914. Pictorial displays, artifacts, memorabilia, audiovisual presentations and the video “The Greyhound Story” tell how a 2-mile route grew to be the largest bus company in the world. Travel to Grand Rapids for lunch and choose from more than a dozen restaurants. GREYHOUND BUS MUSEUM
Authentic recreations of history from 1900 will be found at the
SUMMIT EXPRESS GONDOLA
100 Mile Views of Lake Superior and National Forest.
The region’s most popular attraction, Lutsen Mountains’ new, state-of-the-art eight-person gondola features 360-views for the scenic ride to the summit of Moose Mountain.
Round Trip Rides • Mountain Top Lunch Reservations Required
Contact Group Sales • groups@lutsen.com • 218-406-1319 • www.lutsen.com • #LutsenMountains exploreminnesota.com • Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner 41
M I N N E S O TA Central Region
SACRID HEART CHAPEL 42 Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner • exploreminnesota.com
e
These spiritual communities in the
St. Cloud area are home to stunning architecture and priceless artifacts.
In 1856, five monks from St. Vincent Archabbey in Pennsylvania ventured to the small town of St. Cloud, Minn. Their mission was to establish a new priory and serve the poor German immigrants of the region, spreading their Benedictine philosophy of service and selflessness. Within a few years, the brothers found their message so popular that they established Saint John’s Abbey in nearby Collegeville along the pristine waters of Lake Sagatagan. Today, visitors can explore the 2,500-acre grounds of the abbey, which include prairies, glacial moraine hills and Saint John’s University, a liberal arts college that serves nearly 4,000 students.
This 112-foot “banner” rings its five bells in preparation for church services or monastic prayer, and its enormous parabolic base gives it a distinctly modern look rare in Catholic architecture. Visitors are always welcome during morning prayer and Sunday services, and the resident monks are happy to explain their lifestyle and answer spiritual questions.
Next, venture outside to explore the rest of the Saint John’s University campus. Highlights include Clemens Stadium, home to the Johnnies football team, and the Hill Museum & Manuscript Library, which houses thousands of rare medieval and early modern manuscripts from AfriThe campus centerpiece is the Abbey ca and Asia. However, the library’s most Church of Saint John the Baptist. Comvaluable holding is the Saint John’s Bible, pleted in 1961 during the Second Vatican the first completely handwritten and illuCouncil, the structure was one of the minated Bible commissioned by a Beneworld’s first Catholic churches dictine abbey since the invento integrate liturgical changes tion of the printing press. The Visitors are from Vatican II into its demanuscript is pressed onto always welcome parchment in the Enlightensign. Its trapezoidal shape, vast ceilings and 360-degree ment tradition, and 160 illusduring morning pulpit encourage worshipers trations are “illuminated” with prayer and to gather closely together, gold and silver leaf pressed Sunday and minsters and musicians onto the page to depict holy to project sound outward to moments. services… the audience. Touring groups can admire the W. HoltkampGroups looking to stay overpipe organ, a huge, honeycombed wall night will find lodging at the Abbey of stained glass on the building’s north Guesthouse, a 25-room facility that offaçade, and the church’s iconic bell tower. fers home-cooked meals and meeting exploreminnesota.com • Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner 43
M I N N E S O TA Central Region space to facilitate a spiritual retreat. Options for longer stays include group retreats overseen by a monk with generous time for discussion, meditation and prayer. Also of spiritual interest is Saint Benedict’s Monastery in nearby St. Joseph. This convent was established by nuns who
emigrated from the 19th-century kingdom of Bavaria to encourage higher education for Midwestern women. The 6-acre campus now serves nearly 2,000 students and includes the Sacred Heart Chapel, a Beaux-Arts-style worship space adorned with oculus windows and granite columns. Also welcoming to groups is the Spiritual-
ity Center, which facilitates retreats, faith presentations and team-building seminars. Whether your group is seeking a spiritual retreat or an opportunity to admire timeless architecture, the communities of Saint John’s and Saint Benedict’s abbeys can offer an enlightening experience. 3
SNIFF & SIP
ROCK & ROLL
SH0P & DROP
STAY & PLAY
VISITSTCLOUD.COM 44 Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner • exploreminnesota.com
Day-trip Tours Around Sauk Centre Redhead Creamery • Hemker Zoo Vintage Village Antiques Panther Whiskey Distillery Tours Max Bat Baseball Tours
Stay • Dine Enjoy MINNESOTA
855.444.SAUK (7285)
SAINT JOHN’S ABBEY. PHOTO CREDIT: WIKI COMMONS
Visit Sauk Centre on I-94 and Hwy 71 in the middle of Minnesota
VisitSaukCentre.com
SAINT JOHN’S ABBEY. PHOTO CREDIT: CATHOLIC HOT DISH
exploreminnesota.com • Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner 45
MAPLE ISLAND PARK ON THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN
Charles Lindbergh HOME
ROSENMEIER HOME
FUN AT THE ARTS AND CRAFT FAIR
Little Falls Area Chamber of Commerce
WALLER HOUSE INN
PINE GROVE ZOO
GREAT RIVER ARTS CENTER HISTORIC COURT HOUSE
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LINDEN HILL
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SUNSET OVER GULL LAKE IN NISSWA, MN. PHOTO CREDIT: SUNNY AUGUSTINE
OLIVER KELLEY FARM IN ELK RIVER, MN. PHOTO CREDIT: MINNESOTA HISTORICAL SOCIETY
CLAY COYOTE POTTERY IN HUTCHINSON 48 Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner • exploreminnesota.com
Central Region
VISITOR INFORMATION
C of C: Chamber of Commerce | CVB: Convention and Visitors Bureau | C & C: Civic and Commerce
AITKIN C OF C 800-526-8342 aitkin.com ALEXANDRIA LAKES AREA C OF C 800-235-9441 alexandriamn.org EXPLORE ALEXANDRIA TOURISM 800-245-2539 explorealex.com
EMILY – FIFTY LAKES C OF C 218-763-2480 – Emily 218-763-3113 – Fifty Lakes emilymn.com FERGUS FALLS CVB 800-726-8959 visitfergusfalls.com GLENCOE CITY & C OF C 320-864-3650 glencoemn.org
BECKER AREA C OF C 763-262-2420 beckerchamber.org
GLENWOOD LAKES AREA C OF C 320-634-3636 glenwoodlakesarea.org
BRAINERD LAKES C OF C 800-450-2838 explorebrainerdlakes.com
HUTCHINSON AREA C OF C 800-572-6689 explorehutchinson.com
VISIT BRAINERD 800-450-7247 visitbrainerd.com
LAKE MILTONA VISITORS BUREAU 877-833-2350 visitlakemiltona.com
CUYUNA LAKES C OF C 218-546-8131 cuyunalakes.com ELBOW LAKE C OF C 218-685-5380 elbowlakechamber.com ELK RIVER AREA C OF C 763-441-3110 elkriverchamber.org
LAKE OSAKIS RESORT ASSN. 800-422-0785 lakeosakis.com LINCOLN LAKES AREA 800-462-0203 lincolnlakes.com LITCHFIELD C OF C 320-693-8184 litch.com
LITTLE FALLS CVB 800-325-5916 littlefallsmn.com
NISSWA C OF C 800-950-9610 nisswa.com
LONG PRAIRIE AREA C OF C 320-732-2514 longprairie.org
OTTER TAIL LAKES COUNTRY 800-423-4571 ottertaillakescountry.com
MCGREGOR C OF C 877-768-3692 mcgregormn.com
PAYNESVILLE AREA C OF C 320-243-3233 paynesvillechamber.org
MELROSE AREA C OF C 320-256-7174 melrosemn.org MILLE LACS AREA TOURISM 888-350-2692 millelacs.com MONTICELLO C OF C & INDUSTRY 763-295-2700 monticellocci.com MORRIS AREA C OF C 320-589-1242 morrismntourism.org NEW LONDON C OF C 320-354-2444 newlondonmn.net NEW YORK MILLS C&C 218-385-3339 explorenewyorkmills.com
PELICAN RAPIDS AREA C OF C 218-863-1221 pelicanrapidschamber.com PERHAM AREA C OF C 218-346-7710 perham.com PINE RIVER AREA C OF C 218-587-4000 pinerivermn.com PRINCETON AREA C OF C 763-389-1764 princetonmnchamber.org
SPICER COMMERCIAL CLUB 320-796-8066 spicermn.com STAPLES-MOTLEY C OF C 218-894-3974 staplesmotleychamber.org STARBUCK C OF C 320-239-4220 starbuckmn.org WADENA C OF C 877-631-7704 wadenachamber.com WHITEFISH AREA LODGING ASSN. 800-450-5835 whitefish.org WILLMAR LAKES AREA CVB 800-845-8747 willmarlakesarea.com ZIMMERMAN AREA C OF C 763-856-4404 zimmermanchamber.org
ST. CLOUD AREA CVB 800-264-2940 granitecountry.com SAUK CENTRE AREA C OF C 855-444-7285 visitsaukcentre.org
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M I N N E S O TA Northwest Region
LAKE ITASCA AND HEADWATERS OF THE MISSISSIPPI, ITASCA STATE PARK
Itasca State Park claims the headwaters of the Mississippi River. In a serene setting surrounded by majestic pines, the mighty Mississippi begins as a humble stream flowing out of Lake Itasca on its 2,552-mile journey to the Gulf of Mexico. A log monument signifying the river’s source is one of Minnesota’s irresistible photo ops.
A pilgrimage site for tourists from around the world, the Mississippi headwaters help make Itasca State Park one of the busiest in the system. Attracting nearly a half million visitors a year, the 32,000-acre preserve in northwest Minnesota lies 20 miles north of Park Rapids and 30 miles south of Bemidji. Founded in 1891 to protect the area’s giant pines from logging, Lake Itasca is also Minnesota’s oldest state park and among its largest. It encompasses more than 150 lakes, Lake Itasca being the most prominent.
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A short trail from Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Visitor Center leads to the river’s starting point, where, under the shade of towering pines, visitors ford the stream, stepping from rock to rock. Others wade through the gentle, crystal-clear waters. The river flows north from the lake as far as Bemidji before heading east and then winding south to the Gulf, where it’s 2 miles wide. A raindrop that falls on Lake Itasca shows up about 90 days later at the river’s mouth in Louisiana. (Minnesota claims nearly 600 miles of the Mississippi—
INSIDE OF MARY GIBBS MISSISSIPPI HEADWATERS VISITOR CENTER
more than any other state.) Exhibits in the visitor center and displays in its outdoor plaza spotlight the Mississippi River’s history, cultural importance and the story of how Henry Rowe Schoolcraft, led by Ojibwe guide Ozaawindib, found the headwaters in 1832 after explorers had been searching for the source for over 300 years. The spacious Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center, near the park’s south entrance, has an excellent museum with exhibits on the region’s
MISSISSIPPI HEADWATERS SIGN POST
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M I N N E S O TA Northwest Region
DOUGLAS LODGE DINING ROOM, ITASCA STATE PARK
opy over the road. From Memorial Day heritage, including Ojibwe activities rangweekend to September, a two-hour cruise ing from maple syrup and wild rice proon the Chester Charles II excursion boat, duction to tanning hides, wigwam buildnarrated by a park naturalist, ing and commercial fishing. follows Schoolcraft’s route to Visitors also learn about forest The spacious the headwaters and provides fires, the Mississippi River, Jacob V. Brower a look at birds such as eagles, local flora and fauna, and the Visitor Center, loons, grebes, cormorants and park’s history as a camping near the park’s herons. destination and site for Civilian south entrance, Conservation Corps (CCC) projects in the 1930s. has an excellent Douglas Lodge, dating to 1905, is a two-story log building remmuseum. iniscent of national park lodges Groups get a good overview of built in the early 20th century. Itasca State Park on the 10It offers seven lodge rooms, 16 cabins and mile Wilderness Drive, a scenic loop that a full-service restaurant that overlooks showcases the tall trees that form a can52 Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner • exploreminnesota.com
Lake Itasca. The menu includes local dishes like wild rice soup, wild rice salad and classic Wild Rice Hot Dish, a blend of rice, ground beef, water chestnuts, celery and mushrooms. Try the elk burger, walleye sandwich or walleye with apple-cranberry stuffing. One- to three-bedroom cabins at Douglas Lodge, each with private bath, can accommodate up to eight persons. The nearby Clubhouse, another two-story log building, is rented to groups as large as 21. It has 10 bedrooms, six washrooms, a common area with a fireplace and a screenedin porch overlooking Lake Itasca.
PATH LEADING TO DOUGLAS LODGE, ITASCA STATE PARK
Recreational amenities at the park range from hiking and biking trails to a sand beach for swimming and volleyball. One six-mile bike trail goes to the headwaters; bike, canoe and kayak rentals are available. Examples of naturalist-led programs, offered yearround, include a headwaters history walk, plant identification hike and campfire program on mammals of Itasca. Programs can be tailored to a group’s interest. Whether your group is looking for outdoor adventure in the northwoods or just wants to witness the source of the mighty Mississippi, Itasca State Park is the place for fun and discovery. 3
TOUR BOAT AT ITASCA STATE PARK
#VisitParkRapids
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I T I N E R A R Y Northwest & Central Regions
Simple, a food products company. Products are offered through a network of independent consultants and the company’s website.
THE HERITAGE OF CENTRAL AND NORTHWEST MINNESOTA INCLUDES ONE LARGE LUMBERJACK AND A SEAGOING VIKING SHIP
A must-stop in Pequot Falls is Kendall Candles. More than 500 candle designs, sizes and shapes, plus 70 different fragrances, are manufactured, sold and distributed at this factory. A 15-minute tour of the manufacturing facility is available for groups, or visitors can browse in the gift shop.
Remarkable museums and historical sites coupled with outdoor art and regional cuisine combine for a memorable Minnesota tour.
6
Depart for Little Falls. TOUR NOTE: In the heart of central Minnesota (Morrison, Todd, Wadena and Cass counties) watch for Barn Quilts of Central Minnesota. This open-air art gallery features quilt blocks painted on wood squares and displayed on barns, businesses, buildings and fence posts. The four counties feature 63 barn quilts. How many will your group discover?
UNIQUE EXPERIENCES • Historical & Cultural Center of Clay County • Tastefully Simple • Kendall Candles • Charles A. Lindbergh Historic Site • Minnesota Military Museum • Beltrami History Center Duration: Three days Available: Year-round This itinerary is ideal for: Adults 21+
DAY 1
Begin your day in Moorhead at the Historical & Cultural Center of Clay County, located in the city of Moorhead’s Hjemkomst Center. A featured exhibit is the Hjemkomst Viking ship that was constructed in nearby Hawley by Robert Asp, who, along with a crew of 13, sailed from Duluth to Oslo, Norway. Discover the impact that seafaring nations of Scandinavia had on western Minnesota. Another tribute to the area’s heritage is the Hopperstad Stave Church, a replica of Norwegian stave churches built in the 1100s and 1200s. Tours of the church are available with guides only. Lunch on your own at the center’s Rex Cafe with time for shopping at the Heritage Gift Shop before departing Arrive in Alexandria for a tour of the headquarters of Tastefully
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HJEMKOMST VIKING SHIP. PHOTO CREDIT: DAVIN WAIT/HCSCC
Check into your Little Falls accommodations before dinner at A. T. The Black & White, the Minnesota Restaurant Association’s 2016 Restaurant of the Year.
DAY 2 Enjoy breakfast before checkout.
The Minnesota Military Museum captures the experiences of military men and women from the 1800s to today. An outdoor exhibit of tanks, helicopters, self-propelled artillery and several jeeps greets visitors to the museum campus. Permanent and special rotating exhibits depict how armed conflicts and military institutions have shaped our nation. The largest exhibit, “America at War,” walks visitors through the history of conflict from Minnesota’s statehood in 1858 to the Persian Gulf War.
Begin your day at the Charles A. Lindbergh Historic Site. The famous aviator spent his boyhood summers at this home on the Mississippi River. Explore the exhibits, including a Spirit of St. Louis flight simulator, films and photographs. Walk an interpretive trail along the river. The Lindbergh house and museum is a National Historic Landmark.
Arrive in Bemidji and check into your hotel before dinner at an area restaurant featuring locally sourced foods.
Enjoy a box lunch at the picnic shelter in Charles A. Lindbergh State Park, across the street from the historic site.
The Beltrami History Center occupies a restored 1912 Great Northern train depot in downtown Bemidji. Visitors can test their telegraph skills and listen to Native American flute music while experiencing regional history in the exhibit galleries.
DAY 3 Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checkout.
Before departing Bemidji, schedule a photo opportunity with Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox, an iconic roadside attraction. Depart the North Star State with warm memories of your experience. OPTIONAL: Groups visiting from Manitoba, Canada, or those with a special interest in manufacturing tours will want to add a stop in Warroad in Minnesota’s northwest region on Lake of the Woods. Just 7 miles from the Canadian border sits the 45-acre facility of Marvin Windows and Doors, the world’s largest manufacturer of made-to-order wood window and door products. A tour of the visitor center and plant gives visitors a firsthand view of the production process from rough lumber to the moment the windows are loaded on one of more than 300 semitrailers.
LINDBERGH HISTORIC SITE
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PAUL BUNYAN AND BABE THE BLUE OX IN BEMIDJI, MN
MARLEY KAUL STUDIO, BEMIDJI
MARY GIBBS MISSISSIPPI HEADWATERS CENTER, ITASCA STATE PARK 56 Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner • exploreminnesota.com
Northwest Region
VISITOR INFORMATION
C of C: Chamber of Commerce | CVB: Convention and Visitors Bureau | C & C: Civic and Commerce
AKELEY C OF C 218-252-1541 akeleychamber.com
HACKENSACK AREA C OF C 800-279-6932 hackensackchamber.com
BEMIDJI AREA C OF C 800-458-2223 bemidji.org
HALLOCK TOURISM hallockmn.org
VISIT BEMIDJI 877-250-5959 visitbemidji.com BLACKDUCK C OF C 800-323-2975 blackduckmn.com CASS LAKE C OF C 800-356-8615 casslake.com CROOKSTON AREA C OF C & CVB 218-281-4320 visitcrookston.com DETROIT LAKES REGIONAL C OF C & TOURISM BUREAU 800-542-3992 visitdetroitlakes.com FARGO-MOORHEAD CVB 800-235-7654 fargomoorhead.org
ITASCA AREA LAKES TOURISM ASSN. itascaarea.com KITTSON COUNTY 218-843-3674 tourkittsoncounty.com LAKE OF THE WOODS TOURISM BUREAU 800-382-3474 lakeofthewoodsmn.com LAKE WINNIE AREA RESORT ASSN. lakewinnie.net LEECH LAKE AREA C OF C 800-833-1118 Leech-lake.com LEECH LAKE TOURISM BUREAU 800-735-3297 leechlake.org
CITY OF FOSSTON 218-435-1959 fosston.com
LONGVILLE LAKES AREA C OF C 800-756-7583 longville.com
GREATER GRAND FORKS CVB 800-866-4566 visitgrandforks.com
CITY OF MAHNOMEN 218-935-2573 mahnomenmn.org
MINNESOTA NORTHWOODS TOURISM BUREAU 877-955-2755 minnesotanorthwoods.com PARK RAPIDS LAKES AREA C OF C 800-247-0054 parkrapids.com CITY OF RED LAKE FALLS 218-253-2684 redlakefalls.com REMER AREA C OF C 218-566-1680 remerchamber.com ROSEAU CVB 218-463-0009 goroseau.com THIEF RIVER FALLS CVB 218-686-9785 visittrf.com UPPER RED LAKE AREA ASSN. upperredlakeassn.com WAHPETON-BRECKENRIDGE AREA C OF C 800-892-6673 wahpetonbreckenridgechamber.com WARROAD AREA C OF C 800-328-4455 visitwarroad.com
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M I N N E S O TA Travel Tips
LIGHT RAIL TRAIN
MINNESOTA VITAL STATISTICS ORGANIZED AS TERRITORY:
March 3, 1849 STATEHOOD:
Use these tips and contacts to set up your group’s Minnesota experience.
May 11, 1858 MOTTO:
L’Etoile Du Nord (The North Star) SONG:
Hail Minnesota
CLIMATE
Minnesota has four distinct seasons. During spring and fall the weather can change quickly. It’s best to be prepared with layers of clothing. Temperatures are generally given in Fahrenheit degrees.
TIME ZONE:
Central Standard Time POPULATION:
Bloomington Duluth Rochester St. Paul Minneapolis Metro Area Statewide
87,224 86,597 111,907 300,353 412,517 3,005,419 5,485,238
SOURCE: mn.gov/admin/assets/MN_ cities_townships_sdc_2015
MINNESOTA SALES TAX
The Minnesota sales and use tax for most of the state is 6.875. The tax does not apply to food, clothing, shoes and medicine. In certain counties or cities, the overall tax rate can be slightly higher if there are additional taxes added to the 6.875 percent, such as a lodging tax.
CURRENCY
In northern Minnesota many hotels and retailers exchange Canadian and United States currency and accept credit cards. Some Minneapolis and St. Paul banks also provide currency exchange. It’s best to check ahead of time with a bank to see if the foreign currency you need is available. One reliable method of obtaining U.S. dollars is by using Automatic Teller Machines (ATM) located throughout the state. These ATMs accept credit cards issued by major world banks.
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SMOKING RESTRICTIONS
800-798-9050 / health.state.mn.us A statewide smoking ban applies to bars, restaurants, hotel common areas and private clubs. Tobacco products must be purchased from behind the counter where sold. Products include those “chewed, smoked, absorbed, dissolved, inhaled, snorted, sniffed, or ingested by any other means.” Children under age 18 are not permitted to purchase tobacco products.
TIPPING/GRATUITIES
The custom of tipping service personnel is a generally accepted practice in Minnesota: 15 to 20 percent for restaurant waitpersons, 10 to 15 percent for taxi drivers and $1 per bag for bellmen. Occasionally, gratuities are automatically added to restaurant checks, but not often.
MN/DOT OFFICE OF PASSENGER SERVICES
651-215-6330 dot.state.mn.us/cvo/mcop.html
The Office of Motor Carrier Services administers and enforces laws governing the for-hire and private motor carrier industry within Minnesota, including limousines and vehicles transporting the elderly and disabled.
TAXI/LIMOUSINE SERVICE
Taxi service is ordered by telephone or hired at taxi stands. Beginning fare is $2.50, plus between $2.20 and $2.50 for each additional mile. Taxis may require a $5 minimum fare and can add $4 for transportation originating from MSP International Airport. Many area hotels offer alternative complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport and Mall of America, or are willing to arrange for taxi, Uber, or Lyft service.
NICE RIDE MINNESOTA
877-551-6423 / niceridemn.org Explore Minneapolis-St. Paul and some areas of greater Minnesota by bicycle. Between April and November and for a small fee, rent one of more than 1,700 public bicycles available at 190 stations and return it to any station. Cost is dependent upon length of subscription and length of time each bicycle is checked out. Bring your own bike lock and helmet for safety. NORTHSTAR COMMUTER RAIL
Northstartrain.org The Northstar Commuter Rail Line, the state’s first commuter rail line, offers service from Big Lake to downtown Minneapolis. Visit metrotransit.org for additional information, including full route schedules, where to purchase tickets and how to ride. GREATER MINNESOTA AREA
Other Minnesota bus services include Duluth Transit Authority (218-722-4426), St. Cloud Metropolitan Transit Commission (320-251-1499), and Rochester City Lines (507-288-4353).
MOTORCOACH REGULATIONS AND INSURANCE
Minnesota participates in the Single State Registration System. A copy of your ICC Operating Authority and proof of insurance should be filed with your base state. For additional assistance, contact: Petroleum Division Minnesota Department of Revenue, 651-296-0889. Minnesota cares about passenger safety. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety conducts random motorcoach inspections throughout the state. These are completed while passengers are off the coach.
For a complete list of Minnesota service providers, please visit exploreminnesota.com
MASS AND PUBLIC TRANSIT
612-373-3333 / metrotransit.org
The Metropolitan Council Transit Operations (MCTO) system provides a full schedule of buses, light rail and a commuter train route throughout the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area. Log on for schedule and route information. LRT
Minnesota Light Rail Transit (LRT) system makes getting around easy with newly expanded stops along the Blue Line, including Mall of America in Bloomington and the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, as well as several in downtown Minneapolis. The newly opened Green Line connects Minneapolis and St. Paul with stops at the University of Minnesota campus. exploreminnesota.com • Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner 59
MI NNES OTA Welcome Centers
MINNESOTA WELCOME CENTERS Explore Minnesota operates 10 Highway Welcome Centers. Most are staffed daily. Skilled travel counselors provide a variety of travel services free of charge. Hours vary. ALBERT LEA
Northbound I-35 at Iowa border 507-448-3311 Open year-round.
BEAVER CREEK
East I-90 at South Dakota border 605-757-6599 Open year-round, limited hours December through February.
DRESBACH
West I-90 U.S. Hwy 61 at Wisconsin border 507-895-2005 Open year-round, limited hours November through February.
FISHER’S LANDING
U.S. Hwy 2, 10 miles east of North Dakota border 218-773-7879 Open May through September.
GRAND PORTAGE BAY
U.S. Hwy 61 on Canadian border 218-475-2346 Open year-round.
MOORHEAD
ST. PAUL
ST. CLOUD
THOMPSON HILL
Eastbound I-94 east of U.S. Hwy 75 218-299-5944 Open year-round. U.S. Hwy 10, 1 mile southeast of Saint Cloud Open daily Memorial Day through Labor Day & weekends September - May. 320-654-5548
ST. CROIX
Westbound I-94, 3 miles from Wisconsin border 651-296-0733 Open year-round.
MC/DOT OFFICE OF MOTOR CARRIER SERVICES
121 7th Place E. 651-296-5029, or 888-868-7476 Open weekdays year-round. Skyline Drive, Duluth I-35 at Boundary Ave. exit 218-723-4938 Open year-round.
WORTHINGTON
U.S. Hwys 59/60, 5 miles north of Iowa border 507-376-3352 Open May through October.
615-215-6330 / dot.state.mn.us/motorcarrier The Office of Motor Carrier Services administers and enforces laws governing the for-hire and private motor carrier industry within Minnesota, including limousines, vehicles transporting the elderly and disabled. 60 Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner • exploreminnesota.com
INTERNATIONAL VISITOR INFORMATION Official sites for entry into the US includes: > visittheusa.com/info WINNEWISSA FALLS. PHOTO CREDIT: LINDA FLANAGAN
FOREIGN CONSULATES
> cbsa.gc.ca (Canada Border Service Agency) > dhs.gov (Department of Homeland Security)
Foreign consulate information is available for the following: AUSTRIAN CONSULATE 763-543-0109 BELGIUM HONORARY CONSULATE 651-699-2528 CANADIAN CONSULATE GENERAL 612-333-4641 ECUADORIAN CONSULATE 612-721-6468 FINNISH HONORARY CONSULATE 612-374-2718 GERMAN HONORARY CONSULATE 651-962-4080 UNITED KINGDOM HONORARY CONSULATE 612-338-2525 HUNGARIAN HONORARY CONSULATE 612-554-6227 ICELANDIC CONSULATE GENERAL 952-942-5745 LUXEMBOURG HONORARY CONSULATE 612-220-0404 MEXICAN CONSULATE 651-771-5494 NORWEGIAN HONORARY CONSULATE GENERAL 612-332-3338 ROMANIAN HONORARY CONSULATE 612-574-9472 SWEDISH HONORARY CONSULATE GENERAL 612-870-3377 SWITZERLAND CONSULATE 763-478-3018
THIRD AVENUE BRIDGE OVER MISSISSIPPI RIVER. PHOTO CREDIT: RIDDHISH CHAKRABORTY
exploreminnesota.com • Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner 61
MI NNES OTA Telephone Numbers
TELEPHONE NUMBERS & WEB ADDRESSES WEB ADDESSES
LOCAL
TOLL FREE
MINNESOTA TOUR CONTACT Minnesota Group Tour Information
exploreminnesota.com
Minnesota Welcome Centers (Consumer Travel Information)
651-757-1873
800-657-3600
651-757-1863
800-657-3700
MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Armed Forces Center
mnafsc.org
612-726-9155
Terminal 2 Information
mspairport.com
612-726-5800
Foreign Currency / Teleticket
travelex.com
612-726-5187
Terminal 1 Information
mspairport.com
612-726-5555
Lost and Found
mspairport.com
612-726-5141
MSP Airport Conference Center
shopsatmsp.com
612-794-4500
Parking & Garage Information Line
mspairport.com
Police (Terminal 1)
877-359-7275 612-726-5577
Police (Terminal 2)
612-726-5207
Traveler’s Assistance
mspairport.com
612-726-5500
U.S. Customs
cbp.gov
612-725-3689
Commercial Vehicles
mndot.gov
651-215-6330
General Information
511mn.org
651-296-3000
mnhs.org
651-259-3000
MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Road Conditions and Construction Information
511 800-657-3774
MINNESOTA HISTORICAL SITES General Information POLICE / FIRE EMERGENCY
911
PUBLIC TRANSIT Metro Transit
metrotransit.org
612-373-3333
Duluth Transit Authority
duluthtransit.com
218-722-7283
Rochester City Lines
rochestercitylines.com
507-288-4353
St. Cloud Metro Bus
stcloudmtc.com
320-251-7433
RAIL SERVICE Amtrak
amtrak.com
Metro Transit Blue, Green and Northstar Lines
metrotransit.org
612-573-3333
800-872-7245
ABC Blue and White Minneapolis
blueandwhitetaxi.com
612-333-3331
Yellow Cab, St. Paul
saintpaulyellowtaxi.com
651-222-4433
TAXI SERVICE / MSP METROPOLITAN AREA
MAJOR AIRLINES Air Canada
aircanada.com
888-247-2262
Air Tran
airtran.com
800-247-8726
American
aa.com
800-433-7300
Delta
delta.com
800-221-1212
Frontier
flyfrontier.com
800-432-1359
Great Lakes
flygreatlakes.com
800-554-5111
Icelandair
icelandair.com
800-223-5500
KLM
klm.com
800-447-4747
Southwest
southwest.com
800-435-9792
Spirit
spirit.com
801-401-2200
Sun Country
suncountry.com
800-800-6557
United
united.com
800-864-8331
62 Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner • exploreminnesota.com
exploreminnesota.com • Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner 63
INFORMATION CENTER THESE ADVERTISERS SPECIALIZE IN GROUP & PACKAGED TRAVEL. PLEASE SEND ME INFORMATION ON CHECKED ADVERTISERS. o Bloomington Convention & Visitors Bureau o Blue Earth Convention and Visitors Bureau o Discover Austin
Let these advertisers help to plan
BETTER MINNESOTA GROUP AND PACKAGED TRAVEL TRIPS! Request information on advertisers in this edition and we’ll connect you directly with qualified destinations and attractions. Name_________________________________Title______________
o Down In History Tours o Eagan Convention & Visitors Bureau o Explore Minnesota o Great River Shakespeare Festival o Little Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau o Lutsen Mountains o Mall of America o Meet Minneapolis o Minnesota Historical Society o Minnesota Renaissance Festival
Company/Group Name______________________________________ Type of Group_____________________________________________ Address_________________________________________________ City________________________State________Zip______________ Phone_______________Fax_____________Email_______________ Signature (required) __________________________Date____________ City of Birth (required)________________________________________
COPY THIS PAGE AND RETURN TO: Fax: 630-794-0652 MAIL:
PTM Publications 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527 readerservice@ptmgroups.com
RESPOND TODAY! 64 Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner • exploreminnesota.com
o Minnesota Zoo o Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism o Park Rapids Lake Area o Red Wing Visitors & Convention Bureau o Running Aces Casino/Race Track o Sauk Center o Visit Greater St. Cloud o Visit Saint Paul o Visit Winona o Worthington Convention & Visitors Bureau PLEASE SEND ME INFORMATION ABOUT THE FOLLOWING SPECIALTY TOURS. __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ Size of group________________________ Proposed Dates: (Year/Month) __________________________
LARK TOYS IN KELLOGG, MN
DULUTH ROSE GARDEN, DULUTH
HISTORIC FORESTVILLE, PRESTON
exploreminnesota.com • Minnesota Group & Packaged Travel Planner 65