The land of 10,000 lakes is a place that is commonly looked over. Many people who have never visited Minnesota believe it is merely a cold, vast farmland. But, Minnesota is much more than that. I hope this list is enough to give you a better idea of what the North Star State is really about.
1. The Mall Of America.
Minnesota is home to the nations largest shopping mall, the Mall of America. MOA contains over 520 stores, an indoor theme park, an indoor aquarium which contains over 4,500 sea creatures, and 50 restaurants. Tourists travel from across the country to experience the overwhelming attractions the Mall of America has to offer.
2. Professional sports teams.
Minnesota is home to professional baseball, football, basketball, lacrosse, soccer and ice hockey teams. There are very few states who have professional teams for all six of those sports, so there really is a team for whichever sport you prefer here in Minnesota! Besides our professional teams, there is a large fan base for many of Minnesota's college sports teams.
3. Great food.
Minnesota (specifically, Minneapolis) is home to many award winning restaurants. Also, there are many Minneapolis-based newsletters and websites to help anyone find the right bite.
4. Minnesota State Fair.
As one of that nations largest state fair's, Minnesota's has many attractions including concerts, exhibits, and of course food! In 2015, there were 1,779,738 people in attendance during the 11 days the fair was open.
5. Lake life.
There are over 11,000 lakes in the state of Minnesota. By summer, these lakes are filled with sailing regattas and boaters, and by winter they become frozen tundras for ice fishing and hockey. Lake Minnetonka-located in Wayzata, Minn. is home to Big Island, where one of the largest 4th of July parties is held each year, (Kim Kardashian was even there).
6. Frigid winters.
That may look horrifying, but any good Minnesotan knows the colder the weather, the better the activities. Cold weather means: ice fishing, pond hockey, snowmobiling, and days off of school.
7. Successful businesses.
Many major corporations were founded or are run from Minnesota including General Mills, Target Corporation, Best Buy, and 3M. So you're welcome for awesome cereal and post-it notes.
8. Famous people.
Minnesota has produced some major superstars including Prince, Chris Pratt, Judy Garland, Bob Dylan, Jessica Biel. Why wouldn't you want to experience the home state of these lovely people?
9. F. Scott Fitzgerald.
Famous author, F. Scott Fitzgerald, was born in Minnesota. Therefore, no Minnesota, no "Great Gatsby," no Leonardo DiCaprio looking hot while playing Jay Gatsby. You're welcome.
10. The honey crisp apple.
Everyones favorite was developed at the University of Minnesota. Yum!
11. Minneapolis skyline.
The Minneapolis skyline is underrated, and is also one of the most beautiful. But I guess my opinion is biased.