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Parks & Gardens

I Live in Minnesota and This Is My Favorite Way to Celebrate Spring

Watching for the annual spring warbler migration is a wonderful way to welcome spring in Minnesota

by Trent Jonas
on Mar 25
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Nature

The Natural Wonder in Minnesota That Is the Definition of a Hidden Gem

by Trent Jonas
on Oct 25
A scenic view of rolling green hills under a cloudy sky, with a winding path leading through the landscape.
Nature

I Went Looking For Trolls And Discovered An Incredible Covered Bridge In Minnesota

by Trent Jonas
on Aug 14
A wooden covered bridge spans a small pond, surrounded by tall green grass and a cloudy sky.
Nature

The Audubon Center In Minnesota Where You’ll See Dozens Of Bird Species In A Single Afternoon

by Trent Jonas
on Jul 25
A small bird perched on a yellow sign, singing with its beak open, against a blurred green background.
Nature

Reservoir Woods Park Is A Hidden Nature Park In Minnesota Worthy Of A Day Hike

by Trent Jonas
on Jul 19
A narrow dirt path winds through a lush green forest filled with trees and dense foliage.

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Parks & Gardens

With A Creative Playground And Beach, This Family-Friendly Park In Minnesota Is The Best Summer Day Trip

by Trent Jonas
on Jul 17
A sandy beach by a lake with people swimming, playing, and relaxing under a shaded area on a sunny day.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

The Perfect Afternoon Is Spent At Portland Square Park, One Of The Oldest City Parks In Minnesota

by Trent Jonas
on Jun 26
A sunny park scene with green trees, a playground, and a clear blue sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

I Wandered Off-The-Beaten-Path And Discovered This Adorable Nature Center And Museum In Minnesota

by Trent Jonas
on May 27
A stone building with a wooden sign reading "Welcome Chik-Wauk" and greenery in front, creating a rustic atmosphere.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Happiness Is A Summer Day Trip To This Lesser-Known Lake In Minnesota

by Trent Jonas
on May 23
A serene sunset over a lake, with a wooden dock and a person fishing in the distance. Trees frame the scene.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

The Whole Family Could Spend An Entire Day Having A Blast At Centennial Lakes In Minnesota

by Trent Jonas
on Apr 26
A serene landscape featuring a calm river, lush greenery, and a bridge in a park setting.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

You Won’t Want To Miss The Most Eye-Popping Lady’s Slipper Bloom In Minnesota This Spring

by Trent Jonas
on Mar 1
A lush green garden with pink and white orchids, surrounded by vibrant foliage and a wooden pathway in the background.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

The Mississippi Gorge Loop Trail In Minnesota Is An Urban Hidden Gem Worth Exploring

by Trent Jonas
on Feb 21
A serene river flows through lush green trees under a cloudy blue sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

This Unique Park In Minnesota Is Perfect For A Day Trip Any Time Of Year

by Trent Jonas
on Feb 10
A playground partially hidden by trees, with green grass and a clear sky in a park setting.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Exploring This Local Park In Minnesota Is The Definition Of An Underrated Adventure

by Trent Jonas
on Dec 14
A serene natural scene featuring a small waterfall, rocky cliffs, and a wooden bridge surrounded by lush greenery.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

The Incredible Urban Park In Minnesota That Lights Up Spectacularly For Christmas Each Year

by Trent Jonas
on Nov 3
A festive scene featuring a brightly lit Christmas tree surrounded by colorful gift boxes and twinkling lights.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

The Incredible Hike In Minnesota That Leads Through A Fascinating Abandoned Village

by Trent Jonas
on Oct 25
A lush field of yellow flowers in the foreground with a large tree and a blue sky in the background.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

This Massive Inclusive Playground in Minnesota Is Incredible

Looking for one of the biggest playgrounds in Minnesota? Woodridge Park in Cottage Grove boasts one of the state's largest inclusive playgrounds.

by Trent Jonas
on Jul 21
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Nature
Parks & Gardens

Most People Don’t Even Know This Little-Known Destination in Minnesota Even Exists

Discover the Mickey Elverum Bog Walk in Orr, a peaceful Minnesota hidden gem with scenic boardwalk trails, wildlife, and bog views.

by Trent Jonas
on May 7
A wooden boardwalk winds through a forested bog on a misty day in Orr, Minnesota.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

With Harbor Views, A Massive Playground And Concert Venue, This Minnesota Park Is the Ultimate Family Destination

Bayfront Festival Park in Duluth offers a variety of family-friendly activities, events, and scenic views along the harbor.

by Trent Jonas
on Jul 6
A scenic park path alongside a lake, featuring greenery, a pavilion, and a clear blue sky with scattered clouds.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

12 Amazing Minnesota Hikes Under 3 Miles You’ll Absolutely Love

Minnesota offers a diverse range of hiking trails, from challenging routes along Lake Superior to easy paths through prairies and forests.

by Betsy Rathburn
on Jul 4
A lone tree stands on rocky terrain by a calm river, surrounded by colorful autumn foliage and clear blue skies.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

This Hidden Swimming Hole With A Waterfall In Minnesota Is A Stellar Summer Adventure

Lester River in Duluth, Minnesota, offers scenic waterfall swimming holes perfect for cooling off during hot summer days.

by Trent Jonas
on Jun 3
A serene river flows through rocky terrain, surrounded by lush green trees and a cloudy sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

The Little-Known Park In Minnesota Where, If You’re Patient Enough, You Can Hold Butterflies

The Lyndale Park Butterfly and Hummingbird Garden in Minneapolis is a sanctuary for various pollinators, offering a unique experience to see butterflies and hummingbirds in their natural habitat.

by Trent Jonas
on Jun 3
A vibrant orange butterfly perched on a green plant with purple flowers in a lush, green setting.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Quaking Bog Is A Magical Place In Minnesota That You Thought Only Existed In Your Dreams

Quaking Bog in Minneapolis' Theodore Wirth Regional Park is a unique urban oasis featuring a floating bog walk and diverse flora.

by Trent Jonas
on May 5
A wooden walkway leads through lush greenery to a sign that reads "Welcome to the Quaking Bog."
Nature
Parks & Gardens

A Trip to Minnesota’s Neverending Tulip Field Will Make Your Spring Complete

This spring, grab the family to stroll through gorgeous tulip blooms at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum.

by Betsy Rathburn
on May 19
Purple and yellow tulips in front of the historic Snyder Building at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden, A Wildflower Reserve In Minnesota, Will Be In Full Bloom Soon And It’s An Extraordinary Sight To See

Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden in Minnesota offers a seasonal display of wildflowers and migrating birds, making it a favorite spot for nature lovers.

by Trent Jonas
on Apr 18
A cluster of blue flowers surrounded by green leaves in a lush, natural setting.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

The Horticulture Display Garden In Morris Is The Hidden Garden In Minnesota That Almost No One Knows About

The West Central Research and Outreach Center’s Horticulture Display Garden in Morris, Minnesota, offers hands-on gardening experiences and is open to the public year-round.

by Trent Jonas
on Apr 18
A black bicycle with flower baskets parked in a vibrant garden filled with colorful flowers and a sign nearby.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

The Chutes And Ladders Playground In Minnesota That’s Perfect For A Family Adventure

Hyland Play Area in Bloomington, Minnesota, offers a unique Chutes and Ladders-themed playground perfect for family outings.

by Betsy Rathburn
on Nov 22
Colorful playground with slides and climbing structures, surrounded by trees and a gravel area. Sunny day.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

The Elm Creek Play Area In Minnesota Is The Stuff Of Childhood Dreams

Elm Creek Park Reserve in Maple Grove, Minnesota, features a large, safe, and whimsical playground designed for children of all ages and abilities.

by Trent Jonas
on Oct 12
Colorful playground with slides and climbing structures, featuring vibrant rubber flooring in blue, yellow, and red.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Few People Know One Of Minnesota’s Most Popular City Parks Is Hiding A Dark And Terrifying Secret

Enger Park in Duluth, Minnesota, is known for its scenic views and haunted history involving a ghost at Enger Tower.

by Trent Jonas
on Oct 12
A stone pathway leads to a metal gate, surrounded by thick fog and wet surfaces, creating a mysterious atmosphere.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

You’ll Love Searching For Gemstones At This Unique Attraction In Minnesota

Get Pickin in Cloquet, Minnesota, offers a unique rock hunting experience where visitors can find Lake Superior agates and other rocks.

by Betsy Rathburn
on Oct 12
A group of children and adults are digging and playing in a large pile of rocks in a grassy area surrounded by trees.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Wander Through The Shelves Of Avant Garden Books And Stop For Tea Time At The Mad Hatter Tea House In Minnesota

Explore Avant Garden Books and the Mad Hatter Tea House in Anoka, Minnesota, for a cozy experience with books and tea.

by Rachel Pfutzenreuter
on Sep 22
A charming white house surrounded by lush green trees and a winding driveway.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

There’s Nothing Quite As Magical As This Tunnel In The Trees You’ll Find At Magney-Snively Park In Minnesota

Discover the Stewart Creek Stone Arch Bridge in Duluth, a hidden historic gem surrounded by natural beauty.

by Jennifer Brooks-Parker
on Sep 21
A stone bridge with a pointed arch surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Cuyuna Country Is A Scuba Park Hiding In Minnesota That’s Perfect For Your Next Adventure

Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area in Minnesota offers mountain biking and scuba diving in its clear, human-made lakes.

by Betsy Rathburn
on Jun 15
A serene lake surrounded by lush greenery and trees under a clear blue sky. Reflections shimmer on the water's surface.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

You Can Watch Planes Land At This Underrated Park In Minnesota

Taft Park in Richfield, Minnesota offers various outdoor activities and unique opportunities to watch planes land.

by Betsy Rathburn
on Apr 7
A basketball court with players running, while an airplane flies overhead against a blue sky and green trees.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

There Are Giant Teddy Bears Hiding At Teddy Bear Park In Minnesota Just Like Something Out Of A Storybook

Teddy Bear Park in Stillwater, Minnesota, offers a whimsical playground experience with giant teddy bears and various themed play structures.

by Betsy Rathburn
on Mar 10
Colorful playground with themed structures, a large teddy bear, and families enjoying a sunny day.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

The Breathtaking Park In Minnesota Where You Can Watch Bison Roam

Blue Mounds State Park in Minnesota offers unique prairie landscapes, pink quartzite cliffs, and a bison herd.

by Betsy Rathburn
on Feb 10
A herd of bison grazing in a grassy field with wildflowers under a clear blue sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

If You Live In Minnesota, You’ll Want To Visit This Amazing Park This Winter

Wild Mountain in Taylors Falls, Minnesota, offers a variety of winter activities including skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing.

by Betsy Rathburn
on Feb 5
Aerial view of a snowy landscape with hills, trees, and a building, under a cloudy sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

The Sinister Story Behind This Popular Minnesota Park Will Give You Chills

Quarry Hill Park in Rochester, Minnesota, is a beautiful yet eerie park with a history of being a former state hospital and quarry.

by Betsy Rathburn
on Feb 3
A rustic wooden building surrounded by trees and a grassy area, with a pathway leading to the entrance.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

There’s A Quirky Sculpture Park Hiding Right Here In Minnesota And You’ll Want To Plan Your Visit

Franconia Sculpture Park in Minnesota offers a unique blend of art and nature with interactive sculptures for all ages.

by Betsy Rathburn
on Jan 6
A tilted wooden house suspended by metal beams in a grassy area, with people walking nearby under a clear sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

You’ll Love This One Awesome Activity In Minnesota And It Won’t Cost You A Cent

Franconia Sculpture Park in Shafer, Minnesota, offers a free, interactive outdoor experience with dozens of quirky sculptures.

by Betsy Rathburn
on Nov 25
Colorful, whimsical playground structure made of various materials, set against a cloudy sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Gorgeous Views Of A Popular Northern Minnesota Lake Await At Diamond Point Park In Bemidji

Diamond Point Park in Bemidji, Minnesota, offers beautiful views of Lake Bemidji along with playgrounds, picnic areas, and trails.

by Betsy Rathburn
on Oct 14
A serene lakeside scene with trees, a grassy shore, and a cloudy blue sky reflecting on the water.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Check Out Whimsical Scarecrows At Scarecrows In The Garden, A Family-Friendly Fall Event At The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

Scarecrows in the Garden at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum offers a unique fall experience with creative scarecrow displays and beautiful autumn scenery.

by Betsy Rathburn
on Oct 12
A large, colorful owl sculpture made of leaves and straw, surrounded by pumpkins and greenery in a festive setting.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Sample Never-Before-Sold Apple Varieties With A Trip To The AppleHouse At The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum's AppleHouse offers unique apple varieties and fall activities.

by Betsy Rathburn
on Sep 29
Bags of apples on a table, with informational posters about apple varieties in the background.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Only Accessible By Boat, Minnesota’s Garden Island State Recreation Area Is A Remote Getaway You’ll Never Forget

Garden Island State Recreation Area is a remote island in Lake of the Woods, Minnesota, known for its fishing, picnicking, and wildlife.

by Betsy Rathburn
on Mar 28
Aerial view of a lush, green island extending into a blue body of water, with a sandy shoreline visible.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Visit Minnesota’s Montissippi Regional Park For Lovely Hikes, Playgrounds, And Views Of The Mississippi River

Montissippi Regional Park in Monticello, Minnesota, offers riverside recreation, hiking trails, and family-friendly amenities.

by Betsy Rathburn
on Jun 17
A serene riverbank scene with a calm river, lush green trees, and a partly cloudy blue sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Get Outside This Spring In Minnesota With A Stroll Through The Beautiful Normandale Japanese Garden

Normandale Japanese Garden in Bloomington, Minnesota, is a beautiful and peaceful spot perfect for a springtime stroll.

by Betsy Rathburn
on Apr 14
A serene garden scene featuring a red bridge and a pagoda beside a pond, surrounded by lush greenery and blue skies.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Every Year, Thousands Of Swans Fill Up This Minnesota Park, And It’s Nothing Short Of Spectacular

by Betsy Rathburn
on Mar 9
A person in a brown jacket walks among a large flock of white swans by the water's edge.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Rent An ATV In Minnesota And Go Off-Roading Through Forests And Fields Of Mille Lacs

McQuoid's Inn on Mille Lacs Lake offers ATV rentals for exploring 300 miles of scenic trails.

by Betsy Rathburn
on Feb 8
ATVs driving down a dusty, tree-lined gravel road on a sunny day.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

The Quarry Park In Minnesota Is So Well-Hidden, It Feels Like One Of The State’s Best Kept Secrets

Quarry Park and Nature Preserve in Minnesota offers unique swimming quarries, hiking trails, and adventure activities like scuba diving and mountain biking.

by Rebecca van Sambeck
on Feb 5
A serene, green-tinted quarry pond surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush trees under a cloudy sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Explore Breathtaking Rolling Hills And Prairie Views When You Visit The 136-Acre Seven Sisters Prairie In Minnesota

Seven Sisters Prairie in Minnesota offers a unique and scenic gravel prairie landscape with rare plant life and stunning views.

by Betsy Rathburn
on Feb 2
A scenic view of a river and rolling hills, with vibrant yellow flowers in the foreground under a cloudy sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

This Adventure Park in Minnesota Has The Longest Zipline In The State

Kerfoot Canopy Tour in Minnesota offers the state's longest zipline with breathtaking views and thrilling experiences for all ages.

by Betsy Rathburn
on Jan 27
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Nature
Parks & Gardens

The Franconia Sculpture Park Is One Of The Strangest Places You Can Go In Minnesota

Franconia Sculpture Park in Shafer, Minnesota, offers a unique and free outdoor art experience with ever-changing, fascinating sculptures.

by Rebecca van Sambeck
on Nov 6
A dilapidated wooden house suspended by a metal frame in a grassy field under a cloudy sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Linnaeus Arboretum Is A Fascinating Spot in Minnesota That’s Straight Out Of A Fairy Tale

Linnaeus Arboretum at Gustavus Adolphus College in Minnesota offers enchanting botanical gardens and walking paths that highlight the state's natural landscapes.

by Sophia Mitrokostas
on Oct 28
A rustic wooden house surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage and tall grasses in a serene landscape.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

See Why Better Homes & Gardens Featured Quilt Haven On Main, A Go-To Quilting Supply Shop In Minnesota

Quilt Haven on Main in Hutchinson, Minnesota, is a large quilt supply shop featured by Better Homes & Gardens, offering extensive materials and workshops for quilters.

by Betsy Rathburn
on Jul 22
A spacious fabric store with colorful quilts hanging, shelves of fabric, and customers browsing below.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

The Natural Swimming Hole At Quarry Park and Nature Preserve In Minnesota Will Take You Back To The Good Ole Days

Quarry Park and Nature Preserve in Waite Park, Minnesota, offers hiking trails and natural swimming holes, making it a popular summer destination.

by Betsy Rathburn
on Jun 28
A serene, green landscape featuring a calm, blue-green pond surrounded by lush trees and a clear sky.