Category: road trip

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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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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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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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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Superior-Made Art Found in Lutsen

Superior-Made Art Found in Lutsen

Nestled just to the north of Lutsen, MN, there’s a treasure trove of made-from-the-heart art, collectibles, gifts & beautiful goods waiting to be discovered at Kah-Nee-Tah Gallery. Split into a charming two-building haven, this art playground features the works and wares of wonderful North Shore-based and regional artists. The welcoming gallery also offers hands-on painting and crafting workshops for wannabes like me. They even rent cabins near the shore, which are BFF approved for those of us with best furry friends in tow! You’ve got to see the depth of beauty and artistic talent on display at Kah-Nee-Tah Gallery…

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Best Bites: Well Worth the Detour

Best Bites: Well Worth the Detour

North Shore adventurers….you’ve seen the billboards. But have you detoured off of I-35, taking the Cloquet exit to discover Gordy’s Hi-Hat? If so, you’re miles ahead of me! If not, friends, it’s time to get 415 Sunnside Drive on your radar. Continue reading “Best Bites: Well Worth the Detour” →