Patch Picks: Great Staycations

Save a little money on plane tickets this summer, or do a little extra sightseeing with these staycation ideas.

Journey to the Past in St. Paul

Stop at the Minnesota History Center's George Washington exhibit, and while you’re in the neighborhood take a walking tour of the historic homes on Summit Avenue. If you have time, check out the James J. Hill House and have a meal at nearby Forepaugh's, an historic home built in 1870 that some say is haunted.

Minneapolis' St. Anthony Main, Mill City Museum and Stone Arch Bridge

Explore Minnesota’s Milling history by stopping by the Mill City Museum in Minneapolis, then learn about and enjoy the history and natural beauty of the whole area with an historical walking tour (or a Segway tour). Dine al fresco at Pracna or the Aster Café , or walk around the shops and restaurants of the nearby Northeast neighborhood. 

Uptown

If you’re looking for something trendy and hip, Uptown is your quintessential stop for an eclectic mix of shops, tons of bars and restaurants and some of the Twin Cities’ best people watching. When you get tired of walking around, stop by Lake Calhoun where starting in May you can rent a bicycle, canoe, kayak or paddle boat. 

Stops for the science- and mechanical-minded

Are you a tinkerer—the kind of person who likes to know how things work? You might enjoy a trip to the Science Museum of Minnesota. Next, drive over to St. Paul’s Lock and Dam 1, accessible from Minnehaha Park, to watch it in action from the observation deck. Then head to Sea Salt Eatery, located in the park, or stop in one of the many restaurants around the Cleveland Avenue and Ford Parkway area.

Winery tours

Skip Napa Valley and visit the St. Croix Valley’s wineries  such as the Chateau St. Croix  in St. Croix Falls, WI. Eat at one of the independent restaurants in quaint, historic downtown Stillwater or for an outdoor dining experience a little farther out of town during the warmer months, try Vino in the Valley.