With already one month of summer vacation passing I’ve been questioning my lack of adventure it has entailed. When I’m not working I can be found at home relaxing, and like many other people, I feel the need to do more while I can this summer. I’ve put together a Minnesota summer bucket list of the top 11 things to do while the sun is still shining all day long.
1. Como Conservatory
This is a huge favorite in Minnesota. With gorgeous florals covering all of the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory and a recently new Japanese Garden, it’s no wonder this is a perfect place to spend a relaxing day.
2. Downtown Stillwater
Downtown Stillwater has countless things to offer. Dozens of shops, Leo’s Malt Shop and the famous Lift Bridge. Not to mention getting Nelson’s Ice Cream to finish of a perfect day.
3. Franconia Sculpture Park
Another sculpture park on the opposite end of the city. Franconia is known for all the interactive sculptures it has to offer along with a first hand look at new one’s in construction as the sculptor builds them right on the lot. A great place to pair with Taylors Falls.
4. Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
This is one of the few sculpture gardens in Minnesota. The garden is most famous for their cherry spoon sculpture, along with others including a sculpture swing that you can interact with.5. Minnehaha Falls
One of the many many waterfalls Minnesota has to offer. It’s a waterfall that is popular to visit all year round but that there is just something special about seeing a waterfall on a hot sunny summer day.
6. Soo Line High Bridge
Another Stillwater favorite, this bridge is known for it’s height and views of the St. Croix River. If you love photography or are looking for your next Instagram post, then this bridge is for you.
7. Taylors Falls
Taylors Falls is full of activities to fill up the whole day! My personal favorite is the mini golf and drive-in restaurant duo! And afterwards a walk down to the river to watch the sunset makes for a wonderful day.
8. Twins Game
Classic baseball, Joe Mauer, foot long hotdogs and peanuts. I can’t think of a better all-American way to spend the day.
9. Vali-Hi Drive-in
With drive-in’s being a thing of the past, this treasure has managed to make a name for itself, being one of the only drive-in’s in Minnesota, located in Lake Elmo. They are open every night showing new movies each week. And don’t forget about their $1 hotdogs!10. Valleyfair
If you are a little more on the wild side then Valleyfair is perfect for you and your friends and family. There are rides for all ages and all levels of thrill seeking. It’s always recommended to go on their signature roller coaster, Wild Thing.11. Wild Mountain
For those insanely hot days Wild Mountain is the perfect location to cool down. Offering water slides, a lazy river, alpine slides and go karting, it’s an ideal family location for a relaxing fun day. And if you are feeling really adventurous then you should try the black hole water slide.