How often have we said, “We should take a week and just explore our own town.” Well, this summer we finally had a chance to do exactly that. Our friends from Europe came and stayed with us for a week. We were able to take a week off and explore the Twin Cities with them. We did a number of fun activities every day – but there is so much more that we never had a chance to do. Nevertheless, here’s an itinerary of the things we did do. Many of the activities were outside because we had perfect weather, but we had a list of indoor activities for rainy days too. These included museums, movies, theater or day trips to other nearby towns. Some of these ideas cost no money. Others had a small fee. Some were more expensive. Choose ideas that fit your budget. I hope you find it helpful or that it sparks other ideas of things you could do if you decide to staycation in your town.
Monday we took a bike ride around Lake Nokomis. We picnicked by the lake and then headed over to see Minnehaha Falls.
Tuesday we headed to Lebanon Park. We went swimming and kayaking on Schulz Lake.
Wednesday we took an informal tour of historic St. Paul including a Mississippi River walk, the James J. Hill House, the Cathedral, photo op of the Capitol followed by lunch at Café Latte on Grand Avenue. We did a quick walk around Mall of America later in the afternoon. That evening we enjoyed local produce, live music and a picnic dinner (food trucks!) at Eagan Market Fest.
Thursday we followed Mark Twain down the Mississippi River on a paddleboat ride. Beautiful scenery and you may even see large hawks or eagles. A summer salad, grilled pears topped with feta cheese and honey along with wine on the deck made a great atmosphere for conversation late into the evening.
Friday found us at the Minnesota Zoo. We enjoyed lunch there too after are walk around the exhibits. The evening found us at the City Center Park in Burnsville listening to more live music and enjoying the fountain plus a sunset view of the Twin Cities – all free.
Saturday we got up early for a quick walk around scenic Blackhawk Lake. The afternoon was reserved for swimming and chopstick painting. Dinner was spring rolls and easy fried rice in Chinese takeout containers eaten with – of course – chopsticks.
Sunday everyone made their own omelet-in-a-bag. Boil a pot of water. Everyone takes a sandwich sized zip lock bag marked with their name. Break 2 eggs into a bag. Add veggies of your choice (mushrooms, green onions, peppers, basil) and shredded cheese. Be sure the bag is sealed. Squish to combine the ingredients and drop into the pot of boiling water for 6-8 minutes. Remove the bag, open and roll out your omelet onto a plate. Add melon or other fruit, coffee and serve. Everyone can eat their own custom omelet at the same time.
Sunday afternoon it was time to take everyone to the airport. Their vacation continues but we had a great staycation while they were with us!
You may also like Be a Tourist in Your Own Town, Virtual Vacation and Vacation Break.
