Twin Cities Highlights

The Twin Cities is widely known for its restaurants, parks, and art scene. If you're considering a move, here are some highlights:

Restaurants

More than anything, the Twin Cities is known for great food. With all types of cuisine, you're sure to find your own favorite. See below for my full list of where to eat in Minneapolis, but my top picks include:
George and the Dragon - South Minneapolis. Locally owned, and a great spot for burgers, salads, and craft beers.

Lake and Irving - Uptown Minneapolis. Be sure to try the furikake chicken appetizer.

Bebe Zito - Minneapolis. Homemade, inventive ice cream shop that sometimes does burger pop ups.

St. Paul also has some great options such as:
Meritage - High end, elegant French bistro, especially if you're into oysters.

The Gnome Craft Pub - Great outdoor patio.

Tongue in Cheek - Large, creative menu

Here's my full list of where to eat in Minneapolis

Fun Things to do

The Twin Cities host many events and festivals throughout the year. Some of my favorite activities are:

Lake Harriet Bandshell - summer concerts and outdoor movies. They're free and you can spread out on the lawn with a picnic.

St. Paul Winter Carnival - Every year since 1886, the city of Saint Paul has hosted a festival with ice castles, various competitions, a fun run and a scavenger hunt.

Minnesota state fair - Drawing over 2 million attendees every year, it is the second largest state fair in the nation. A great opportunity to try new foods, see some concerts, and ride some rides.

Twin Cities Loppet Festival - A fun winter festival focusing on embracing winter. Includes multiple ski races and an elaborate, outdoor luminary walk.

Here's a full list of fun activities, events and diversions

Parks and Trails

Popular parks in the Twin Cities area include:

The Rose Garden on the shores of Lake Harriet.

Theodore Wirth park, just West of Downtown Minneapolis - With 2 golf courses, several mountain bike trails, a large chunk of the grand rounds, and a nationally recognized nordic skiing scene, there isn't much Wirth doesn't offer.

Loring park - Just south of downtown Minneapolis, Loring park hosts dozens of city events every year, including a winter festival. Around the perimeter of this park you'll find great restaurants, the Walker Art Center and sculpture garden.

Como park - St. Paul's Como park is home to the oldest zoo in Minnesota and an expansive indoor conservatory. There is an 18 hole golf course, water park, ski area, and large lake, making it a great spot for all ages.

Crosby Farm park is the entry point to almost 7 miles of walking and biking trails that follow the Mississippi River. Just to the East of Fort Snelling it's a hidden area in the heart of the metro.