Here in Minnesota, there's no shortage of great places to visit when you just have to have your sugar fix. Minnesota's Largest Candy Store is filled to the brim with sweet treats, as are the many other candy stores, bakeries, and ice cream parlors. But there's one small-town chocolate shop that takes the cake when it comes to putting your sugar craving to rest. This sweet spot draws visitors for its incredible chocolate and its adorable charm. Take a look:
St. Croix Chocolate Co. is a small-town chocolate shop located in Marine on St. Croix, Minnesota. You'll find it at 261 Parker Street, Marine on St. Croix, 55407.
Folks flock to the charming town of Alexandria, Minnesota, for many reasons. It's surrounded by shimmering lakes, and thus, in the heart of cabin country. Anglers, boaters, paddlers, and people just looking to kick up their feet by the water can all find ample reason to visit this Douglas County town. Then there's the, um... history. A massive statue of a Viking - Ole the Viking, to be precise - holds a shield proclaiming that Alexandria is the "Birthplace of America." This bold assertion, perhaps a little tongue in cheek, was made, because the infamous Kensington Runestone was found nearby, and a museum dedicated to the runestone is currently located in Alexandria. Proponents of the runestone's authenticity, which has been a matter of debate since it was found, assert that the tablet proves Vikings visited this part of North America prior to any other Europeans. Others simply call the runestone a hoax. Regardless of where folks come down on the runestone debate, though, one thing that they almost certainly agree on is Roers Bakery in Alexandria, MN is most definitely a reason to make a trip to town. It has been a staple of the community for decades, and with its history and artisan baked goods, it's certain to keep going strong for many more to come.
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The Roers family have owned and operated their popular west-central Minnesota bakery for more than a quarter of a century.
But there's been a bakery on this Alexandria corner for nearly 140 years. Perhaps the history of the building has something to do with it - and certainly the Roers' skills - but this family bakery in Minnesota serves up some of the most mouthwatering sweets and truly artisanal breads you will ever try.
The retail side of the bakery is warm and inviting, the aromas of fresh baked goods almost intoxicating.
For example, the bakery crafts delicate rosettes around Christmas time. And gooey, layered baklava - not an easy thing to make - is an occasional special.
Another thing you'll find is a wide selection of breads and artisanal creations.
The bakery's artistry doesn't end with bread: You can also order custom cakes and specialty items from Roers, as well.
The bakery occasionally partners with other businesses in the community to produce inspired creations. For example, it has used spent grain from Copper Trail Brewing Co., a local brewery, to make its artisanal spent grain bread. Learn more about Roers Bakery in Alexandria, MN, including its retail hours and what's baking on the shop's Facebook page.
We think Alexandria is a wonderful destination for a weekend getaway. You'll find plenty of things to do and places to explore - apart from the inside of Roers Family Bakery - on a visit to this charming and historic town. Check Hotels.com for great deals on area lodging.
Have you tried Roers Family Bakery? Tell us about your favorite items in the comments!
When I was asked to write about my favorite outdoor coffee shop in Minnesota - one with gorgeous views - I couldn't open my laptop quickly enough to type Java Moose in Grand Marais, MN. Formally Java Moose Espresso Cafe, this shop had humble beginnings in the early 1990s as a seasonal shack off the pebble beach on Grand Marais harbor. A couple decades ago, it moved into its current brick-and-mortar location, but the views from its patio are equally stellar.
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The summer Java Moose opened its seasonal stand, in 1992, I bought a travel mug.
It's a little beat up these days, but I still have it and love it. A decade later, the shop moved to its current location on the edge of downtown Grand Marais. Now I can fill my mug - a newer one with a Java Moose sticker - all year round.
These days, the coffee, bakery items, and sandwiches are better than ever.
One spot with gorgeous views - that won't break the bank - is the cabin at Penny's Peak. Designed for one or two people who don't mind things a little rustic, this rental cabin is just a few miles up the road in Hovland. It's a perfect place to retreat to after you've grabbed your coffee.
I just don't think there's another coffee shop in the state that offers such amazing views. For a little more information on Java Moose in Grand Marais, MN - or to score some of its sweet merch - visit the shop on the web. I often like to pair my cold press with a smoothie bowl from Shook Smoothies, which is located right next door to Java Moose. It's a perfect combination of caffeine and nutrition to fuel me up for the day's adventures, whether I'm heading up the Gunflint Trail, hiking in one of the area parks or forests, or chasing North Shore waterfalls.
Have you visited Java Moose in Grand Marais? Tell us what you think in the comments, and be sure to let us know about your favorite outdoor coffee shop in Minnesota!
