So, we made it through March, and it looks like we're set to beat COVID-19! I appreciate all the business and opportunities clients trusted me with throughout the pandemic. I'll continue to follow the guidelines until we're totally done with this thing.
I did get to travel a bit last month for personal pleasure, and I really enjoyed my time on the leadership team at the Pushmetal-Workshop. I'm sure hope things continue to move forward, and travel becomes the norm again for both work and play.
How about a mini historical road trip?
As I mentioned last month, one form of travel that remains safe and family-friendly involves getting into the car and taking off for your destination. The road trip may take you in many different directions. With the kids still in school, why not make it an educational trip? If that sounds boring, it shouldn't. The Metro Area and Greater Minnesota offer an array of interesting and entertaining historical sites. As an added benefit, you'll take in some terrific scenery along the way. And, these places don't take more than a couple of hours to reach, so you and your family only need a weekend day to enjoy one of these mini road trips.
Mill City Museum represents a great starting point:
The Mill City Museum on downtown Minneapolis's outer ridges offers exhibits, films, and kid-friendly activities. The very cool courtyard surrounded by ruins hosts concerts, weddings, and other events. Who knew the history of flour could give us so much fun?! Admission to the museum makes for a reasonably priced family outing. But, if you purchase a membership to the Minnesota Historical Society during your visit, you get free or reduced admission to many different historical sites. Here's a few more to check out:
Historic Fort Snelling isn't just a military cemetery. Your family will learn about Native American history going back thousands of years, the fur trade industry, and Minnesota's role in freeing the slaves.
The James Hill House in St Paul gives you an authentic look at the past as you tour the Downton Abbey of the Twin Cities. The James Hill House, named for its railroad magnate owner, teaches you about domestic life during the time and what went on with the railroad.
Split Rock Lighthouse in Two Harbors dates back to 1907. It guides ships and boats in some of the World's most dangerous waters. They started doing public tours back in 1971, and the fascination with lighthouses continues today. Plus, the drive up to Two Harbors makes for a relaxing time filled with stunning scenery.
The Minnesota Historical Society offers many more worthy destinations, but also check out these independent destinations for more Minnesota history:
Minneapolis Sculpture Gardens ranks as one of the most extensive and impressive sculpture gardens in North America, if not the World. There's a lot more to see than just the Cherry and the Spoon (although that's pretty cool). Check out the website to learn more about the history and other tidbits regarding the individual sculptures. That will give you more time to gaze at the structures once you're there in person or enjoy a cocktail at The Walker Art Center's bar. You'll also find beautiful plants indoors and out. The indoor greenhouses also provide an oasis from cold weather.
If you're looking to travel a little farther out of town, head to Duluth and make a stop at Glensheen Mansion. Affluent businessman and iron mogul Chester Congdon built this incredible structure with sprawling gardens between 1905 and 1908. If you're not old enough to know the history of this place, ask your parents about the Congdon murders of 1977. When they opened the house as a museum in 1979, the murders remained a taboo topic for years. But, when the University of Minnesota took over a couple of decades later, they figured out 'murder talk' sells books and other merchandise in the gift shop. Too soon? Apparently not, because Glensheen Mansion remains a fascinating place to visit.
It's been a long year; it's time to get out of the house and expand your horizons. And, if you want to make sure your car looks its best before your urban or outstate adventure, give me a call to smooth out any dents or dings. Remember, we will come to you all summer long to erase any signs of hail damage.
Contact me here to make an appointment or for more information.
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