Category: Minnesota

Soudan Mine: A Celebrated Chapter of Minnesota History

Soudan Mine: A Celebrated Chapter of Minnesota History

As the cage elevator doors opened, we emerged from our compact time capsule stepping into the hazy, humid August daylight. In three short minutes, our group of curious adventurers were safely transported a half-mile from the depths of one of Minnesota’s most well-known iron ore mines back to the earth’s surface. Have you toured the historic Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park?  If so, you completely understand the mine’s global economic significance, the legacy that remains in the hearts and hands of thousands who built the state’s mining industry, and how these dedicated miners put Minnesota on the map…

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Biking Gitchi-Gami: Lutsen –> Tofte

Biking Gitchi-Gami: Lutsen –> Tofte

Reciting the iconic name of the North Shore’s superior, paved pathway might spark a smile. That’s because Gitchi-Gami Trail is super fun to say – and even more fun to ride! Your turn… say ‘Gitchi-Gami’ aloud a couple times, and then puff your chest up just a bit, Minnesota friends. Continue reading “Biking Gitchi-Gami: Lutsen –> Tofte” →

Roadtrip to Finland…Minnesota

Roadtrip to Finland…Minnesota

Taking the back roads through Northern Minnesota presents explorers with a beautiful escape. This is especially true if you’re lucky enough to claim the back seat, keeping both eyes peeled to scout wildflowers, sky-scapes and other captivating photographic moments…

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Dog-Friendly Stay: Sit. Nap. Explore. Relax. Repeat.

Dog-Friendly Stay: Sit. Nap. Explore. Relax. Repeat.

Even our BFFs—best furry friends—need a vacation, right? Those trusted canine companions work overtime, too. If you’re searching for a Lutsen-area vacation spot that is dog-friendly, here’s a hint…look no further than our pro-pup condo 142C at Caribou Highlands. In fact, the resort boasts 29 units – from condos to town homes to lodge rooms – that warmly open their doors to doggies.  Continue reading “Dog-Friendly Stay: Sit. Nap. Explore. Relax. Repeat.” →

Sweet On Summertime in Minnesota

Sweet On Summertime in Minnesota

Hi, ya! A quick reminder that we’re on the clock. The summer season we’ve waited for with all our determination, grit and Minnesota-might has arrived in all her glory. Time to pay tribute to the warmer weather + memorable North Shore activities we wait for each year. Grab your cuties, gear, camera and let’s go… Continue reading “Sweet On Summertime in Minnesota” →

So Happy Together

So Happy Together

Sparks of romance. Have you experienced them lately, perhaps while holding hands with your plus-one? Keeping up with life’s quick pace can zap those energy reserves in a snap, making it a challenge to keep those sparks bright! It’s so important, though, to set aside intentional time … a date night, a day trip or even a weekend to rekindle your affection and reflect on the beauty of two. Heck, even just having an uninterrupted conversation is a win! Our guest blogger, Courtney from the beautiful  Mama Bear Life is a golden soul, and I’m ever-grateful for our friendship. Courtney and her hub planned a memorable North Shore getaway earlier this spring. Here’s a snapshot of their sweet time together. Thank you, Courtney & Steve! 

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Road Trip: Grand Portage

Road Trip: Grand Portage

These wild and remote lands that stretch wide open across Northern Minnesota’s tip of the Arrowhead fill our hearts. Beauty shines and evolves from season to season…a vast gift to take in, appreciating and trying to comprehend the depth of what all this beloved and sacred spanse of Superior shoreline and forest has meant to many, for many generations through centuries of time.

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It’s a Wrap! North Shore Gift Guide

It’s a Wrap! North Shore Gift Guide

There is so much joy and happiness in choosing special gifts for those we love the most…yet finding the perfect item can be a perfectly exhausting experience. Fortunately (go Minnesota!) we live in a state that may have more amazing makers and crafty creators per capita than anywhere in the world. Well…I don’t have data to support that claim; but, take a peek at this MN-inspired gift round-up and I think you may agree…

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Warm, Woodsy & Welcoming: Duluth’s Detour-Worthy Coffee Shop

Warm, Woodsy & Welcoming: Duluth’s Detour-Worthy Coffee Shop

Cruising I-35 north toward the Superior Shore, Duluth welcomes travelers like a great aunt…never a cordial handshake, always a collossal hug. There’s the anticipation of the view that awaits around the Thompson Hill bend…a spectacular vista of Lake Superior, spotting the city’s iconic Aerial Lift Bridge in miniature, eyes searching quickly for ships in and near the harbor and zipping along feeling darn pleased to be almost 150 miles closer to vacation! Making tracks toward the heart of the city, we’re typically in need of a quick stretch and a refuel for both the car, the kids and grownups alike. On my last trip to Lutsen, my midway pit stop discovery…Dunn Brothers in Duluth—what a super spot!

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