Minnesota is also known as the “North Star State” or “Land of 10,000 lakes”. Actually, Minnesota has over 12,000 lakes. The state is located in the Midwestern region of the USA. The capital is Saint Paul and the largest city is Minneapolis. The word Minnesota comes from the Native American Dakota word for “sky-tinted water”.
Minnesota is covered with lakes, rivers, forests, parks and wilderness, most of which is undisturbed and rural. Minneapolis and Saint Paul metro areas are together known as the “Twin Cities”. Most people (about 60%) live here and the rest of the state consists of prairies and farmlands. Minnesota contains some of the oldest (3.6 billions years) rocks found on earth. At one time glaciers covered the land and have left the glacial till when they retreated.
Outdoor enthusiasts would love to know that Minnesota is a land of timber wolves, Black bear, Moose, Bald Eagles, Red-tailed Hawk and snowy owl along with smaller animals such as grouse, pheasants, geese, ducks, etc.
Minnesota is known for its cold winters when the temperature can come close to -60°F. International Falls in Minnesota is usually the coldest place in the country. Summers are also milder with temperatures reaching about 49°F. The state also experiences rain, snow, blizzards, tornadoes, hailstorms, thunderstorms, derechos and high-velocity winds. May through September is a good time to visit this state.
With such cold weather, Minnesota is the place for winter sports such as skiing, sledding, skating, riding snowmobiles and so on. Hockey is a popular pastime. In summer, boating, fishing, swimming, water-skiing, rock skipping are possible. Also, hiking, mountain biking and other outdoor activities keep the population busy all year.
Schubert Club Musical Instrument Museum in St Paul (75 W 5th St, Landmark Center, MN 55102-1431 - 651-292-3267) is a haven for music lovers. Rows and rows of musical instruments, collection of rare 200 year old letters and compositions of Ludwig van Beethoven, W.A Mozart, Frederic Chopin and other big names in the world of music are fascinating to see, read about and hear.
The Twin Cities, Minneapolis and St. Paul are cultural centers as well with their Art Museums, historical attractions, professional theatre, expositions, etc.
Skyways are the most amazing sights of all on the streets of Minneapolis (512 Nicollet Ave – MN 55402). A network of skyways extends overhead across eighty city blocks! This creates the world’s largest continuous network of paths above the ground. These skyways or tunnels help avoid weather problems, sunburn and crowds on the streets and allows the visitor to enjoy the city from above.
In Minneapolis, the Bell Museum of Natural History (10 Church St – MN 55455) which is located in the University of Minnesota offers enthralling exhibits interesting to all ages. History buffs will be excited to understand the amazing biodiversity and history of the region while wandering through the museum or checking out the diorama halls.
The Minnehaha Park and Falls are the best bet for families who like the outdoors and activities. Cascading waterfall, picnic spots, disc gold, tennis and other activities compete for your attention all day. View the sculptures in the gardens and take photos of the breathtaking Creek Falls for a memorable vacation.
