Visiting the Twin Cities - Beyond the Mall of America

I grew up visiting relatives in the Twin Cities, before the days of the Mall of America. Believe it or not, we found great things to do. While many people enjoy the Mall of America, those who already live near abundant shopping may find it redundant, filled with stores they've been shopping at for years. So if the thought of all of them in one spot bores you to tears, and you couldn't care less about seeing an indoor rollercoaster, here are fun things to do in the Twin Cities.

Ordway Center for the Performing Arts

This gorgeous theater is located in Saint Paul, and hosts a wide variety of performances. It has everything from opera to children's entertainment, and also has educational presentations.

Minneapolis Sculpture Garden

This 11 acre area is located just outside the new Walker Art Center, and is a must-see. The Spoonbridge and Cherry is its most well-known feature, and if you haven't seen it, you really haven't seen the Twin Cities. Cross the bridge and take in the poetry written overhead as you cross the city traffic.

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

This is located outside Chaska, west of the Twin Cities, but is worth the trip. It features 12.5 miles of walking paths, natural areas, specialty gardens, and landscape designs.

Famous Dave's BBQ and Blues

Located in Calhoun Square in Minneapolis is this great spot where you can feed your appetite for nightlife, great food, and live entertainment all at once. The food is smokin', the blues are complementary, and it's guaranteed to be a good time.

Sommerfest

This festival takes place in mid-July to early August on the Peavy Plaza outside Orchestra Hall in downtown Minneapolis. It's free, with live musical performances. Sample from a variety of food vendors and enjoy music ranging from reggae to swing. Sit and enjoy a bit of Minnesota summer; they don't last long.

Science Museum of Minnesota

Located along the river in Saint Paul, this is a fun museum with its own IMAX theater. It includes a dinosaurs and fossils exhibit, and for some local flavor check out the Mississippi River Gallery.