How about a Brewery Road Trip in March?

I swear we were just talking about the start of 2021, and already we're into March! With spring just around the corner, there's good news and bad news. We continue to fight COVID-19, but at least now, we're battling it with more than masks and social distancing. With three vaccines going into arms, we now anticipate some kind of normal living on the horizon. It's possible Target Field might allow a reduced capacity to watch a Twins game this summer! I hope that means no more giant heads behind home plate.

I am cautiously getting back to traveling for work and leisure. I'm incredibly excited to announce; I am part of the leadership team for the Push Metal Workshop in Michigan this month.

March might be an excellent month for a road trip:

Okay, admittedly, in Minnesota, March does possess a reputation of 'iffiness,' When we do get those glorious March days, we need to take a cue from Mother Nature, turn off Netflix, and Hulu and get in the car for a mini road trip. In and around the Twin Cities, plenty of routes exist that will offer scenery and maybe even slightly higher temps. And, hey, as long as you're in the car anyway, why not make your destination a fun place, say like a brewery? You'll also help out a business recovering from the pandemic.

You don't need to travel very far to visit a brewery. Breweries still abound in the Metro area. But, if you're looking for some rolling hills, maybe some cows, horses, or even llamas grazing, you might want to head to southern Minnesota or a neighboring state. Check out the options below:

• Chippewa Falls measures just a short but scenic jaunt from Minneapolis or St. Paul. And, of course, you can't go to Chippewa Falls without visiting Leinenkugel's Brewery. This sixth generation 150-year-old brewery never seems to get old. It's a great time to stock up on the Summer Shandy flavor of your choice with warm weather approaching. If you've never been there, make sure and take a tour.

• And speaking of Wisconsin, next time you've had just about enough of the waterpark at Wisconsin Dells, know that Showboat Saloon represents the perfect escape spot. Showboat offers entertainment, food, and terrific beer. From the Blonde Ale coming in at 4.6% ACV to the 'Why is the Cake Gone?' Porter at 13.3% with 24 beers on tap, there's something for everyone.

• Iowa boasts plenty of breweries as well. Why not take a leisurely drive to West Des Moines and check out The Twisted Vine Brewery. The Twisted Vine came about from its cousin, the Madison Court Winery. Twisted Vine offers 29 beers on tap. They also sell both growlers and cans to go from all their tap offerings. And, if your road trip partner prefers wine, consider splitting your time between the winery and brewery.

• If you don't want to cross the state border, consider traveling south to Madelia, Minnesota. Madelia could not be more idyllic and charming. You'll probably want to move there, but then if everyone did that, it would kind of ruin the vibe. But hey, don't let that stop you from visiting the Lost Sanity Brewery. With offerings like Botched Lobotomy Honey Brew and Cationic Cream Ale, you know you're in for an adventure. Despite all the craziness, they love kids and also offer food and soft drinks.

Dents and dings along the way? No problem!

Of course, I hope your trip goes perfectly, but if you do run into a hail storm or someone smashes into your door in a parking lot, fear not. I'm here to make your car perfect again. Or, if you want to make sure you're riding in style before you take off and want those imperfections smoothed out, I will come to you and fix those dings and dents! Contact me here for estimates or to make an appointment.

HAPPY MARCH!!!