USA Today's 10Best, the publication's ongoing readers' choice award series, has announced winners in its ranking of the best state parks and best scenic drives.

In the former category, Gooseberry Falls State Park took the top spot.

Today’s Travel Article is sponsored by Visit Grand Rapids.

"Situated along Minnesota's spectacular North Shore of Lake Superior, Gooseberry Falls features a series of five dramatic waterfalls cascading through a rugged gorge of volcanic rock," the publication states.

It goes on to praise its scenic forest and abundant wild life, as well as the 18 miles of trails that connect to the Superior Hiking Trail.

In the 10Best ranking of the best scenic drives, the North Shore Scenic Drive got some love, finishing in 10th place.

"You'll have fantastic views of Lake Superior, complete with waterfalls, rugged cliffs, and forested hills on the 154-mile Minnesota North Shore Scenic Drive," USA Today's blurb reads.

"Break up your journey by visiting the Great Lakes Aquarium, going for a hike on the Superior Hiking Trail, and stopping at the Grand Portage National Monument fur-trading post for some souvenirs."

While the national laurels are deserved, Minnesotans probably don't need a reminder that there are some excellent summer getaways along the North Shore.

But it's not a new spot getting recognized as the best local sports bar in the country. In a new readers' choice poll at USA Today's 10Best, A Bar of Their Own has taken the top spot.

"The bar proudly shows 'ALL women’s sports, ALL the time,' creating a community-driven atmosphere that feels different from traditional sports bars," USA Today editors write.

"Fans love the mission, the welcoming staff, and the sense of belonging that keeps fans coming back. It’s a groundbreaking spot that celebrates women’s athletics with every game on the screen."

USA Today's editors and experts pared down the nation's sports bars to a long list that went up for a vote earlier in the spring.

Just a couple of years after opening, A Bar of Their Own came out on top.

"Thank you to everyone who voted daily and especially to those who keep showing up to make this place special," reads a message on the bar's Facebook page. "We love being part of this community and supporting the growth of women's sports!"

The bar, which has gotten a stamp of approval from notable sports figures like Billie Jean King and Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve, is open daily at 2207 E Franklin Ave.

In 2025, Minnesota had 10 entries in the 250-city list, with Plymouth leading the way at 17th. This year, only eight cities made the cut, and all of them placed lower than last year. 

The majority of the state's entries are once again around the Twin Cities suburbs, with Plymouth placing highest at 31st. However, there were exceptions in Rochester and Mankato.

In addition to an overall ranking, the list is also broken down by small, mid-sized, and big cities, with Plymouth placing 19th on the best small cities breakout.

Notably, Bloomington (215th last year) and Duluth (237th last year) fell off the list entirely. They join Minneapolis and St. Paul as cities that didn't make the cut, despite once again being praised by the Trust for Public Land as two of the best park systems in the country.

As has been the case in the past, larger cities didn't fare as well as small and mid-sized towns in general. Only 10 of the top 100 cities had a population of more than 200,00. 

Though it's notable that there were only five above that mark in 2025, and none above 273,000. This year, Omaha (pop. 491,055); Chandler, Ariz. (pop. 277,492); El Paso, Texas (pop. 664,801); Plano, Texas (pop. 295,296); and Gilbert, Ariz. (pop. 278,573) all made the top 100. 

Here are Minnesota's entrants on the U.S. News & World Report's list, with last year's rank noted next to each city. 

31. Plymouth (17th)
54. Maple Grove (40th)
81. Eden Prairie (46th)
112. Woodbury (54th)
134. Eagan (116th)
138. Rochester (72nd)
198. Blaine (188th)
209. Mankato (118th)

The study additionally crafts a list of the 15 best places to live in each state. Here's Minnesota's top-15.

1. Plymouth
2. Maple Grove
3. Eden Prairie
4. Woodbury
5. Eagan
6. Rochester
7. Blaine
8. Mankato
9. Brooklyn Park
10. Bloomington
11. Duluth
12. Coon Rapids
13. Burnsville
14. St. Paul
15. Minneapolis

U.S. News crafts the annual list using data from Applied Geographic Solutions (AGS), as well as with its own resources, combining data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Department of Commerce, and other federal, state, and local sources.

The ranking piles that data into five indexes, which include a quality of life index (education, healthcare, air quality, environmental risk, state economy, and state infrastructure), a value index (housing affordability and cost of living), a desirability index (crime rates, weather, culture and leisure activities, and commuter resources), a job market index (unemployment and median household income), and net migration, which is not weighted heavily but accounts for whether people are moving to or away from each city.

Here are the top 10 overall from the publication's list. The complete list can be found here. 

1. Carmel, Ind. 
2. Fishers, Ind. 
3. Flower Mound, Texas
4. Ankeny, Iowa
5. Johns Creek, Ga. 
6. Hoover, Ala.
7. Rochester Hills, Mich. 
8. Leander, Texas
9. Frisco, Texas
10. Sugar Land, Texas

Meanwhile, St. Paul, home of cool jackets and the fun baseball team, rose to fourth place after finishing fifth in 2025. 

The high placement from both cities has become expected, as they have consistently placed in the top five in recent years.

After finishing first in 2020, Minneapolis was third in 2021 and fifth in 2022. St. Paul placed third in 2024 and second in 2023, 2022, and 2021. 

The cities are scored on a fleet of factors, but the nonprofit Trust for Public Land notes that one reason for the high placement is the ubiquity of parks. Across the Twin Cities, 99% of residents live within a 10-minute walk from a park. That's far ahead of the national average of 76%. 

St. Paul's modest rise is further attributed to "additional parks funding secured through the city's 'common Cent' 1% sales tax measure," the Trust says in an announcement. The city spends about $309 per person on its parks, an increase from $248 last year.

In Minneapolis, the city spends about $346 per person. The national average is $154.

“We are honored to be recognized as one of the top park systems in the nation for the twelfth year in a row. Our parks shine a light on our commitment to sustainability and equity in Saint Paul," St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her says. "We cannot underestimate the role parks play in creating a thriving, resilient city where people want to live, work, play and invest.”  

The annual list ranks the 100 most populous cities in the United States based on a variety of factors that center on parks, from accessibility to amenities and ubiquity.

Here's the top 10 park systems, according to the Trust for Public Land. 

1. Washington, D.C.
2. Irvine, Calif.
3. Minneapolis
4. St. Paul
5. Cincinnati

In its report, the Trust for Public Land notes that parks have an impressive ROI, delivering $3 in benefits for every $1 invested nationally.

The nonprofit says the physical activity provided by parks reduces health care costs, they offer green infrastructure to save money on flood control and other public works, and save residents money on activities they might otherwise pay for. 

WCCO Radio's Jason DeRusha reported that Red Cow’s location on Hennepin Avenue in Uptown is closing its doors. In a statement, the Twin Cities burger chain told DeRusha that the restaurant will close on June 1, and that its employees will be moved to other locations. 

Statement from Red Cow ownership: pic.twitter.com/vC1ZTu5Od4

— Jason DeRusha (@DeRushaJ) May 17, 2026

Red Cow operates two Minneapolis locations in the North Loop and 50th and France. Other Red Cow restaurants are located in Rochester, Wayzata, and St. Paul. Red Cow’s sister restaurant, Italian eatery Red Rabbit, also operates locations in the North Loop and St. Paul. 

“Our decision was not easy. All team members will be provided opportunities at our other Red Cow or Red Rabbit locations. It has been a great 10 year run and we cannot thank all of our team members and guests who made 10 years of Red Cow in Uptown possible,” Red Cow’s statement to DeRusha says. 

Last fall, Red Cow temporarily closed its North Loop location for renovations. Earlier this month, the restaurant announced the 50th and France store would be getting a similar treatment. 

Students are entering the workforce in a difficult situation, with the most recent job report showing wage growth at its slowest since 2021, shorter average work weeks (meaning less income), and unemployment hovering around 4.3%. 

With that in mind, a new report from Redfin and Glassdoor looked at the best metro areas in the U.S. for recent grads. Given that the health care industry was among the stronger sectors in the new jobs report, it's perhaps not surprising that Rochester, Minn., ranked among the best small cities for new graduates. 

The report highlights strong starting salaries and the city's bustling culture as part of the reason Rochester placed 10th on the list. 

The ranking was built through compiling data such as starter home availability, ownership cost, rent-to-income ratio, early-career income averages, economic diversity, overall job satisfaction, job availability, and quality of life metrics. 

Here's a look at the cities that placed in the top 10 in the three categories that the report broke down. 

Top big cities:

1. Washington, D.C. 
2. Omaha, Neb. 
3. Boston
4. Dallas
5. Chicago
6. Houston
7. St. Louis
8. San Diego
9. Miami
10. Austin

Mid-sized cities:

1. New Orleans
2. Palm Bay, Fla. 
3. Wichita, Kan. 
4. Mobile, Ala. 
5. Anchorage, Alaska
6. Lincoln, Neb. 
7. Trenton, N.J. 
8. Bridgeport, Conn. 
9. Waco, Texas
10. Lexington, Ky.

Small cities:

1. Springfield, Ill. 
2. Santa Fe, N.M.
3. Panama City, Fla. 
4. Hilton Head Island, S.C. 
5. Macon, Ga. 
6. Champaign, Ill. 
7. Greenville, N.C. 
8. Columbia, Mo. 
9. Bend, Ore. 
10. Rochester, Minn. 

Many across the great Twin Cities metro area get underway during the first weekend of May, with more opening just about every weekend into June.

It's yet another sign of warmer months on the way, offering a chance for the community to gather for fresh produce, flowers, and donuts. Farmers markets not only offer the chance to connect with food sources and seasonal produce, but they also support local growers and create more sustainable foodways.

Here’s where you’ll find farmers markets throughout the spring, summer, and into the fall in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the surrounding suburbs.

Minneapolis

Audubon Farmers Market: Thursdays from 4–7 p.m. at Northeast Market Garden, 2800 Johnson St. NE, Minneapolis — June 25 to Sept. 24

Farmers Market Annex: Saturdays and Sundays from 7 a.m.–1 p.m. at 200 E Lyndale Ave. N, Minneapolis — April 25 to Oct. 31

Kingfield Farmers Market: Sundays from 8:30 a.m.–1 p.m. at MLK Park, 4055 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis — May 17 to Oct. 25

Linden Hills Farmers Market: Sundays from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. in the parking lot of Settergrens, 2813 W 43rd St., Minneapolis — May 3 to Oct. 25

Midtown Farmers Market: Saturdays from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. at 2225 E. Lake St., Minneapolis — May 2 through late October

Mill City Farmers Market: Saturdays from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. in Mill Ruins Park, 750 S 2nd St., Minneapolis — May 2 through September (the market is open year-round, but the hours change in October)

Minneapolis Farmers Market: Wednesday–Friday, 7 a.m.–1 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 6 a.m.–1 p.m. at 312 E Lyndale Ave. N, Minneapolis — May 2 to Oct. 31

Nokomis Farmers Market: Wednesdays from 4–7:30 p.m. at 5167 Chicago Ave., Minneapolis — June 17 to Sept. 30

Northeast Farmers Market: Saturdays from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. at St. Boniface Church parking lot, 629 NE 2nd St. NE, Minneapolis — May 9 to Oct. 10

Southwest Farmers Market (formerly Fulton Farmers Market): Saturdays from 8:30 a.m.–1 p.m. at 5025 Knox Ave. S, Minneapolis — May 16 to Oct. 31

Uptown Farmers Market: Thursdays from 4–8 p.m. at W Lake Street and Girard Avenue, Minneapolis — June 11–Sept. 24

St. Paul

Como Park Farmers Market: Thursdays from 2–6 p.m. at 1545 Hamline Ave., St. Paul — May 14 to Oct. 29 (except Aug. 27 and Sept. 3)

MidCity Farmers Market: Wednesdays from 4–8 p.m. at 693 Raymond Ave., St. Paul — June 3 to Sept. 30

Securian Farmers Market: Wednesdays from 10 a.m.–1:30 p.m. at 400 Robert St. N, St. Paul — Aug. 5, 12, 19, and 26

7th Place Farmers Market (check title): Wednesdays from 10 a.m.–1:30 p.m. at 17 W 7th Place, St. Paul — June 17 to July 29

St. Paul Farmers Market: Fridays from 1:15 p.m.–5 p.m. at House of Hope Church, 797 Summit Ave., St. Paul — May 8 to Oct. 30

St. Paul Farmers Market in Lowertown: Saturdays from 7 a.m.–1 p.m. and Sundays from 8 a.m.–1 p.m. at 290 5th St. E, St. Paul — April 25 to Nov. 22

West St. Paul/Signal Hills Farmers Market: Fridays from 8 a.m.–12 p.m. at 1225 S. Robert St., St. Paul — June 5 to Oct. 30

East Suburbs

Aldrich Arena Farmers Market: Wednesdays from 8 a.m.–12 p.m. at Aldrich Ice Arena, 1850 White Bear Ave., Maplewood — May 13 to Oct. 28

Franconia Farmers Market: First Sundays from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. at the Franconia Sculpture Park, 29836 St. Croix Trail, Shafer — May 3 to Oct. 4

Inver Grove Heights Farmers Market: Sundays from 8 a.m.–1 p.m. at 8055 Barbara Ave., Inver Grove Heights — June 14 to Oct. 25

Oakdale Farmers Market: Wednesdays from 2–6 p.m. at Walton Park, Oakdale — June 3 to Oct. 14

Roseville Farmers Market: Tuesdays from 8 a.m.–12 p.m. at 2131 Fairview Ave. N, Roseville — May 5 to Oct. 27 (except Sept. 1)

White Bear Lake MarketFest: Thursdays from 6–9 p.m. around downtown White Bear Lake between 3rd St. and 4th St. — June 18 to July 30

Woodbury Farmers Market: Sundays from 8 a.m.–1 p.m. at Red Rock Elementary, 3311 Commonwealth Ave., Woodbury — June 7 to Oct. 25 (except Aug. 30)

North Suburbs

Andover Farmers Market: Tuesdays from 2–6 p.m. at Riverdale Church, 3210 Bunker Lake Blvd. NW, Andover — May 5 to Oct. 27

Anoka Farmers Market on the Rum: Wednesdays from 3–7 p.m. at Riverfront Memorial Park parking lot, 2201 Second Ave., Anoka — June 17 to Sept. 30

Blaine Farmers Market: Tuesdays from 3–6 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m.–12 p.m. at St. Timothy’s Catholic Church, 707 89th Ave. NW, Blaine — June 21 into October

Brooklyn Park Farmers Market: Wednesdays from 1–6 p.m. at North Hennepin Community College, 7411 85th Ave. N, Brooklyn Park — July 8 to Oct. 7

Champlin Farmers Market: Tuesdays from 2–6 p.m. at Andrews Park, 7200 117th Ave. N, Champlin — July 7 to Sept. 29

Coon Rapids Farmers Market: Wednesdays from 3–6 p.m. at Coon Rapids Ice Center, 11000 Crooked Lake Blvd. NW, Coon Rapids — starting June 19

Crystal Farmers Market: Tuesdays from 3–6 p.m. at Crystal Community Center, 4800 Douglas Dr. N, Crystal — June 16 to Sept. 29

Little Canada Farmers Market: Mondays from 1–5 p.m. at 2920 Rice St., Little Canada — June 15 to Sept. 28 (no market Sept. 7)

Maple Grove Farmers Market: Thursdays from 3–7 p.m. at Maple Grove Community Center, 12951 Weaver Lake Road, Maple Grove — May 7 to Oct. 29

New Brighton Farmers Market: Wednesdays from 3–7 p.m. at New Brighton Community Center, 400 10th St. NW, New Brighton — June 3 to Oct. 14

Nowthen Farmers Market: Thursdays from 3–7 p.m. (3–6 p.m. in September) at 8077 Viking Blvd. NW, Nowthen — June 4 to Sept. 24

Scandia Farmers Market: Wednesdays from 3-6 p.m. at Scandia Community Center, 14727 209th St. N, Scandia — June 3 to Sept. 2

Shoreview Farmers Market: Tuesdays from 3–7 p.m. (3–6 p.m. in September and October) at 4580 Victoria St. N, Shoreview — June 2 to Oct. 13

South Suburbs

Apple Valley Farmers Market: Saturdays from 8 a.m.–1 p.m. at 7100 147th St. W, Apple Valley — June 6 to Oct. 31

Bloomington Farmers Market: Saturdays from 8 a.m.–1 p.m. at the East lot of the Bloomington Civic Plaza, 1800 W Old Shakopee Rd., Bloomington — June 6 to Oct. 17

Burnsville Farmers Market: Thursdays from 11:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. at 3333 Cliff Rd. E, Burnsville — May 7 to Oct. 29

Burnsville Farmers Market at the Senior Center: Saturdays from 8 a.m.–1 p.m. at 200 Burnsville Pkwy., Burnsville — July 11 to Oct. 31

Centennial Lakes Farmers Market: Thursdays from 3–7 p.m. at Centennial Lakes Park, 7499 France Ave. S, Edina — June 4 to Oct. 1

Lakeville Farmers Market: Wednesdays from 12–5 p.m. at Lakeville Area Arts Center, 20965 Holyoke Ave., Lakeville — June 3 to Oct. 28 (except July 8)

Lakeville Farmers Market: Saturdays from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. at 20965 Holyoke Ave., Lakeville — June 31 to Oct. 31 (except July 11 and Sept. 19)

Prior Lake Farmers Market: Saturdays from 8 a.m.–12 p.m. at 16228 Main Ave. SE, Prior Lake — May 2 to Oct. 17

Richfield Farmers Market: Saturdays from 7 a.m.–12 p.m. (8 a.m.–12 p.m. in September and October) at Veterans Memorial Park, 6335 Portland Ave., Richfield — May 2 to Oct. 31

Rosemount Farmers Market: Tuesdays from 1–5 p.m. at 13885 S. Robert Trail, Rosemount — June 9 to Sept. 29

Savage Farmers Market: Sundays from 8 a.m.–1 p.m. at 4800 W. 123rd St., Savage — June 7 to Oct. 25

West Suburbs

Carver Community Market: Tuesdays from 3–6 p.m. at Carver Station, 1607 Hartwell Dr., Carver — June 2 to Sept. 29

Chanhassen Farmers Market: Saturdays from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. at City Center Park, 7700 Market Blvd., Chanhassen — June 6 to Sept. 26

Chaska Community Market: Thursdays from 4–7 p.m. at Fireman’s Park, 3210 Chaska Blvd., Chaska — Beginning June 11

Hopkins Farmers Market: Saturdays from 7:30 a.m.–12 p.m. at 16 9th Ave. S, Hopkins — June 20 to Oct. 31

Maple Lake Makers and Growers Market: May 17, June 14, July 19, Aug. 23, and Sept. 13 from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. at Birch Ave. S, Maple Lake

Minnetonka Farmers Market: Tuesdays from 2–6 p.m. at The Marsh, 15000 Minnetonka Blvd., Minnetonka — June 2 to Sept. 29

The New Mound Farmers Market & More: Saturdays from 8 a.m.–12:30 p.m. at 5515 Shoreline Dr., Mound — Beginning May 23

Plymouth Farmers Market: Wednesdays from 2–6 p.m. at Parkers Lake Playfield, 15500 County Road 6, Plymouth — June 17 to Sept. 30 (July 15, Aug. 12, and Sept. 16 take place on Plymouth Blvd.)

Victoria Farmers & Makers Market: Thursdays from 5–8 p.m. at Omni Brewing, 1495 Stieger Lake Ln., Victoria — June 25 to Sept. 3

A Spring Weekend Getaway to Northern MN is the perfect solution to cabin fever. This spring trip itinerary is perfect for a single, couple or family. This spring come for the outdoors, and stay to make memories in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. This small town located in northern Minnesota is perfect to relax, reconnect with loved ones, and recharge in Minnesota’s nature. A going to the lake destination, Grand Rapids is a scenic drive far enough but close enough to be convenient. 

There is a wide variety of lodging properties from in town Hotels, Motels, a Bed and Breakfast, and Vacation Rentals to off the beaten path and located on beautiful area lakes Resort Cabins and Vacation Rentals. You will find several cultural and historic attractions to tour, and an abundance of outdoor recreation trails, lakes and rivers. Try new bites and sips while you are in town, and discover the locally owned boutique style shops. Before you arrive, make sure that you check out our Events Calendar to see live music, live performances, seasonal events and festivals that are happening. This spring take a weekend getaway to northern Minnesota where you can relax, reconnect with loved ones, and recharge in Minnesota’s nature.

On this three day, two night vacation, you will take in six experiences that include: driving up the Avenue of the Pines Scenic Byway, hiking, eating out, live music, biking, axe throwing, and walking across the Mississippi River. The trip itinerary will help guide you through these experiences, places to eat & drink, and additional outdoor recreation resources and tips.

Trip Tips

• Packing layers of clothing for the spring in northern MN is essential. Mornings and evenings will be cool and afternoons will be mid-50's to low 70's.
• Spring lodging offers affordable points.
• If you are wanting to get rentals you will want to get in advance.
• Some area attractions and shops will be closed on Sunday.

Ready to shake off cabin fever? Start planning your spring weekend getaway to Grand Rapids, Minnesota, where scenic drives, outdoor adventure, local flavors, and small-town charm are waiting.

Just six burger slingers made the cut, and one of those — the only representative from the Midwest — is in Minneapolis.

Le Burger 4304 has been crowned one of the nation's finest new burger joints, with Food & Wine praising its "playful nods" to the fine dining background of owners Jonathan Gans and Josh Hoyt.

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"The patties are wagyu, you can get a burger with foie gras, and caviar is available as a side," Harry Cheadle writes in the list.

"But the important thing is that Le Burger nails the basics. The local news site Racket described L'Americain as 'if McDonald's Quarter Pounder with Cheese was the absolute best, cheffiest version of itself.'"

Other restaurants that made the list include San Francisco's Smish Smash, New York's Deux Luxe, Houston's Boo's Burgers, Portland's Face Plant, and Miami's Ted's Burgers.

Gans and Hoyt, veterans of Bachelor Farmer, opened the French-inspired burger shop in late 2024. Twin Cities-based burger completists can find Le Burger's wares at 4304 Upton Ave. S in Minneapolis.

Most people know to call 911 in an emergency, but what if it’s not safe, or you can’t speak, or a cell phone call won’t go through? In Minnesota, you still have a lifeline: you can text . Quiet, fast, and there for emergencies when calling 911 isn’t an option.

The key takeaway: Call 9-1-1 if you can, text 9-1-1 if you can’t. 

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS), in partnership with Twin Cities PBS, has rolled out a public awareness campaign aimed at letting Minnesotans know that 911 dispatchers can be reached by phone AND text.

Who can call?

If cell signals aren’t strong, you can text 911; or when silence keeps you safer when you’re in an emergency, don’t call text 911. Deaf and hard of hearing individuals also benefit from text to 911. Again, you can text 911 if it’s safer to stay quiet during an emergency rather than calling 911. 

How to call?

• Type 911 in the "To" field.
• Include your location in the text message and specify the type of emergency (medical, crime, etc.)
• Send the message.
• Use simple words.
• Do not use abbreviations, emojis, pictures or slang. (BRB, IDK, THX, 2day and BTW, for example)
• Be ready to answer questions and follow instructions.
• Do not text and drive.
• It is a crime to text 911 with a false report. If you accidentally send a text-to-, send another text or place a call to let the dispatcher know that there is no emergency.

Reasons to use Text-to-911

If you can’t make a call, text 911. Situations may include:

• Caller can’t speak and must remain quiet due to a crime in progress.
• When speaking may cause harm, such as in a home invasion, domestic violence, or human trafficking situation.
• If the caller encounters a suicidal or agitated person.
• If peer pressure not to call 911 is strong (text 911 instead).
• If the reporting party is deaf, deafblind, hard of hearing, or can’t talk for any reason 

Some limitations to be aware of

• Location features are not as accurate with text as they can be with a call
• If customers are outside of Minnesota or along a neighboring border, texts to  may not be received by a dispatcher.
• Texts to 911 will get a bounce back if a customer is roaming.
• Wireless customers must have mobile phones that can send text messages.
• Usual charges will apply to texts made to 911.
• Texts to 911 have the same 160-character limit as other text messages.
• Texts to 911 can get out of order or may not be received at all.
• There is currently no language translation service for texts-to-911.

The bottom line

Calling 911 is still the fastest, most effective way to get help so dispatchers can gather critical details in real time. But when a call isn’t possible, Minnesota’s Text-to-911 gives you another way to get help when it matters most. Find out more about Text-to-911 in Minnesota. Visit: dps.mn.gov/text-911. (This information available in Spanish, Hmong, Russian, Somali and American Sign Language by visiting www.tpt.org/tptnow)

Anthony Gilbert, owner of Melt Pizza, competed against nearly 800 pizza makers at the International Pizza Expo, which took place in late March.

When the judging was done, Gilbert placed 12th overall in the pan division and fifth in Detroit-style pizzas. In the non-traditional category, Gilbert finished 14th overall and first in the northwest division.

Gilbert prepared his dough, which requires a three-day fermentation process, in Stillwater, and then transported it to Las Vegas for the competition, FOX 9 reports.

Previously, Gilbert's pizza earned him a 2024 first-place finish in the non-traditional northwestern division. Additionally, last year, a Melt team member grabbed a top-three finish in Detroit style.

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Melt Pizza Company's award-winning pizza can be found at 112 Main St. N in Stillwater from noon to 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and noon to 8 p.m. every other day of the week. 

Its best places to live list doesn't just rank cities. Among the smaller and suburban towns are the neighborhoods of large cities, making for a sprawling list from the site that specializes in helping people find schools and neighborhoods to live in. 

The ranking is topped by Atlantic Station, a neighborhood in Atlanta, taking top honors. To find Minnesota representatives below the top-placed hubs, you'll need to do quite a bit of scrolling, because only two cities made the top 400.

Of course, breaking out neighborhoods makes it a lot harder to place well on the list. Still, Minnesota doesn't surface until 59th place, with Falcon Heights. Second in the state is Lauderdale at 164th. However, both of those cities, and more than a dozen in Minnesota overall, received an A+ grade from Niche.

The next two Minnesota locales to make the cut were the Mac-Groveland neighborhood in St. Paul at 432nd and Minneapolis' Kingfield neighborhood at 442nd. 

Another representative doesn't crop up until Eden Prairie at 693rd place.

These scores were created with a variety of metrics, including the consumer price index, access to affordable housing, the percentage of residents with a bachelor's degree or higher (a strange way to determine whether or not a place is livable), home values, diversity, self-reported reviews from residents, crime, school quality, number of sunny days, average temperatures (that one isn't doing Minnesota any favors), commute times, and other factors.

Here's a look at the top-10 cities in Minnesota, according to Niche. (It's probably worth noting that all of these cities received an A+ overall grade.)

1. Falcon Heights
2. Lauderdale
3. Mac-Groveland in St. Paul
4. Kingfield in Minneapolis
5. Eden Prairie
6. Tangletown in Minneapolis
7. Kenny in Minneapolis
8. Cooper in Minneapolis
9. Northrop in Minneapolis
10. St. Anthony Park in St. Paul

Hungry Like the Wolf brings Minnesota labor history and sharp comedy together in a fast-moving new production at History Theatre. Written by Sandra Struthers and directed by Laura Leffler, the show draws from the groundbreaking story of the Willmar Eight — the women who led the first American bank strike in the United States right here in Minnesota — while weaving in themes of gender equity, political history, and pop culture.

Blending humor, social commentary, and unmistakable ’80s energy, the production also folds in references to McCarthyism, director Lee Grant, and an unmistakable obsession with Duran Duran. The result is a lively, unconventional theatrical experience that balances history with irreverence and heart.

Tickets start at $25, with performances running through April 12 and select dates offering accessible services through History Theatre.

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Not only are the food fests around the Twin Cities enjoyable, but at least one ranks among the nation’s best according to the serial list makers at USA Today’s 10Best. 

The publication’s new ranking of the 10 best city food festivals places the MN Food Truck Festival as the 10th best in the nation. 

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While the final top 10 was crafted by votes from readers, the editors created the long list and praised the festival for “showcasing the delicious depth of the area’s street food and food truck scene. From Thai to Somali, from fresh-from-the-fryer donuts to Juicy Lucy burgers, this festival offers a plethora of options to satisfy every palate.”

This year's edition of the festival will have three separate gatherings, bringing a parade of food trucks to Anoka, Hopkins, and Minneapolis.

The MN Food Truck Festival’s 2026 run gets going on May 9 in Hopkins.

Breaking Barriers & Building Comfort: Celebrating Megan During Women in Trades Month

March is Women in Trades Month—a time to recognize the hardworking, skilled women who are making an impact in industries traditionally dominated by men. At Logan Companies, we’re proud to spotlight one of our own: Megan, one of the few female HVAC technicians in the field, and a dedicated professional serving Minnesota homeowner with expertise, heart, and grit.

A Family Tradition Turned Personal Mission

For Megan, a career in HVAC wasn’t by chance—it was a path that was shaped by her upbringing.

“HVAC runs in the family,” she shares. “Growing up, I watched my father work in the trade, and I saw the pride they took in solving problems and helping people stay comfortable and safe in their homes. That really stuck with me.”

That early exposure shaped more than just career curiosity—it shaped her values. Today, Megan carries on that tradition while building something of her own. What she loves most about the job is simple: no two days are ever the same.

“Every day is different. Each job brings a new challenge. I enjoy working with my hands, troubleshooting systems, and knowing that what I do makes a real difference for families and businesses.”

It’s that mindset—problem-solver, protector, professional—that defines her work.

Built for Minnesota’s Toughest Seasons

Being an HVAC technician in Minnesota isn’t for the faint of heart.

With subzero winters and hot, humid summers, our state pushes heating, cooling, and plumbing systems to their limits. Megan sees it all.

“In the winter, we deal with frozen pipes, furnace breakdowns, and heating inefficiencies. In the summer, it’s all about keeping A/C units running properly and efficiently. There’s never really a slow season—we have to be ready year-round.”

Minnesota’s climate doesn’t just demand quick fixes—it demands preparation. Megan is a strong advocate for preventative maintenance, helping customers stay ahead of problems before extreme weather makes them worse.

“A little upkeep now can save homeowners from major issues later.”

More Than a Technician—A Trusted Neighbor

One of Megan’s most memorable service calls came during a brutal cold snap when temperatures dropped well below zero.

She was dispatched to help an elderly woman whose furnace had completely failed. When Megan arrived, the home was already dangerously cold.

“She didn’t have another heat source. I diagnosed a failed ignitor and, thankfully, had the part on my truck.”

But she didn’t just replace the part and leave.

“I stayed to make sure everything was running safely and helped her set her thermostat properly so she’d stay comfortable. It’s not just about fixing equipment—it’s about making sure people are safe and cared for, especially when they need it most.”

That’s the Logan Companies difference in action.

Advice for Homeowners: Don’t Wait

When asked for one piece of advice for Minnesota homeowners, Megan doesn’t hesitate:

“Don’t wait until something breaks.”

She recommends:

• Changing HVAC filters every 1–3 months
• Scheduling professional service before each heating and cooling season
• Watching for slow drains or small plumbing leaks before they become costly repairs

“Regular maintenance goes a long way. A little attention now can prevent big, expensive problems later.”

It’s practical advice from someone who’s seen what happens when small issues are ignored.

A Woman Thriving in the Trades

As one of the few female HVAC technicians in the industry, Megan has faced challenges—but she’s never let them define her.

“Early on, I had to prove myself a bit more. But once customers and coworkers saw that I knew my stuff and took pride in my work, the respect followed.”

Her perspective is clear: skill, work ethic, and professionalism matter most.

“This industry values what you bring to the table. My advice to other women considering this path? Don’t be intimidated. If you’re passionate and willing to learn, there’s absolutely a place for you here.”

Women in Trades Month is about visibility—and Megan’s story is proof that the trades offer real opportunity, stability, and fulfillment for women ready to step forward.

Rooted in Community

When she’s not serving customers, Megan is spending time with her kids—playing outside, cheering at sporting events, or simply relaxing together. She’s also an avid runner.

“Running helps me clear my mind, stay active, and push myself. That focus definitely carries over into how I approach my work.  If I could tell Minnesota homeowners one thing about Logan Companies, it’s that we truly care about doing the job right and treating people with respect. We’re not just there to fix a problem—we’re there to build trust.”

As a local, customer-focused company, that personal connection matters.

“We’re helping our neighbors. It’s about doing things the right way and making sure customers feel taken care of.”

Celebrating Women in Trades Month

This March, we celebrate Megan—and all the women making a difference in skilled trades across Minnesota.

At Logan Companies, we’re proud to support technicians who bring skill, integrity, and heart to every service call. Megan represents the future of the trades: knowledgeable, hardworking, community-focused, and committed to excellence.

If you see Megan on your next service call, know you’re in capable hands.

And if you’re a young woman considering a career in the trades? Let her story be your sign.

The unranked list singles out 33 U.S. cities, using the U.S. News and World Report's list of the best cities in the country as a jumping-off point before adding art and design as a factor for compiling its cohort. 

While Minneapolis and St. Paul fell off the U.S. News and World Report's 2025-26 list, the Twin Cities made the cut for Architectural Digest, which released its list the same week that "the people of the Twin Cities, Minnesota" won the 2026 John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award.

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"Mall of America may be the most famous shopping destination in the area, but design-loving denizens of the Twin Cities have plenty of other artsy outposts to shop for homewares," the editors of Architectural Digest write in their blurb.

"Arlee Park is stocked with carefully curated vintage decor, while The Foundry Home Goods and Golden Age Design are filled with fresh accessories and furniture. If it’s inspiration you’re after, the Minneapolis Institute of Art, Walker Art Center, and Minneapolis Sculpture Garden are the places to be."

The complete list features a mix of suburban towns alongside some of the biggest cities in the country, including New York, San Francisco, and Miami.

A handful of other Upper Midwest cities made the list as well. Here are the cities in neighboring states that got a little recognition.

• Ankeny, Iowa
• Cedar Rapids, Iowa
• Madison, Wis.
• Milwaukee, Wis.
• Sioux Falls, S.D.

Shandra Turner has been creating unique dining experiences and events in downtown Atlanta for several years, sharing her tips for "bougie" snacking during her regular appearances FOX5 Atlanta.

She's now looking to franchise The Bougie Grazer and bring a new café to the Twin Cities.

That's according to a permit application from Tatiana Kilgore, whose proposing to open the new restaurant, called Bloom by Mari Café, on Robert Street in West St. Paul.

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Kilgore, who lives in Inver Grove Heights, wrote in her application that she's hoping to create family-night experiences and plans to offer programming for local youth and a range of workshops and events.

The café's menu would likely include pizza, salads, paninis, pastries, charcuterie boards, coffee and cocktails, with both early-morning and late-night hours planned.

The West St. Paul Planning Commission is set to review permit applications for the business' liquor license and proposed outdoor patio seating Tuesday.

The café is proposed to take over the vacant space in the Children's Minnesota clinic building at 963 Robert Street South.

Twin Cities residents can now shop Cub’s assortment of foods and other products on Amazon.com, "creating a seamless shopping experience alongside Amazon's own grocery and everyday household essentials selection," according to a press release. 

"For more than 50 years, Cub has been Minnesota's hometown supermarket, serving our communities with quality products, fresh foods, and local favorites,” Jamie Sjoquist, vice president of marketing with Cub, said in a statement.  

"This collaboration with Amazon allows us to reach even more shoppers with the convenience of same-day delivery, making it easier for families to get the groceries they need, when they need them," Sjoquist continued. 

Consumers can shop for groceries from Cub on Amazon by visiting amazon.com/cub or using the Amazon shopping app. 

Same-day delivery or scheduled delivery for a future day are available and free delivery on all Cub orders over $25, with a two-hour delivery window, is being offered for a limited time.

A GoFundMe page created for RaagOn50th says 100 percent of the funds will go directly towards keeping its workers employed, and paying rent and vendor obligations. Ten percent of the money raised will pay for legal fees and emergency funds for impacted employees.

“We chose to pay people first, even when doors were quiet,” the GoFundMe was launched by the owner, Sohil Goorha, whose gas station diner, Dhaba94, was closed just a week after opening in December. 

“We never imagined we would be writing this,” the announced continues. “Over the last few weeks, circumstances in our city and region have changed dramatically. We have had to shut down service on and off.”

The GoFundMe explains that “even the legal workforce were too afraid or unable to come to work anywhere."

“We exhausted our personal savings, raised money from family, but are now at a crossroads where we do not have funds to pay February rent, utilities, and obligations, and we intend to," the fundraiser says, "but we cannot do that alone anymore.”

As of Friday, the fundraiser has raised just over $2,100.

The Mexican-American restaurant, located at 350 33rd Street West, announced on Facebook that it has decided to permanently close.

“The decision was not an easy one, and it comes with very heavy hearts,” the announcement reads. “We are forever grateful for the memories made, the friendships formed and the moments shared within these walls.”

The announcement comes after the restaurant temporarily closed in mid-January for a “short break.”

Me & Julio still operates a location in Fitchburg, Wisconsin.

Some fly south for the winter. Some hunker down and stay put. But the Minnesotans who make the most of the snowy season — whether they’re adventuring or just relaxing — know where it’s really at.

The place is none other than Grand Rapids, just a jaunty three-hour drive north of the Twin Cities in Itasca County.

Unlike some places that close up shop for the winter, Grand Rapids is the city that doesn’t hibernate. From snowy outdoor thrills to cozy comforts to luxury shopping and more, this place has it all for anyone who wants to make the most of their winter. Here’s a taste of just some of what’s in store in Grand Rapids this season:

Winter Wonderland Adventure

Skiing and snowmobiling and mountain biking, oh my! If it can be done in the snow, it can be done in Grand Rapids. 

Boasting nearly 200 miles of cross-country ski trails, 300 miles of snowmobile trails and 25 miles of mountain bike paths — plus entire forests of snowshoeing opportunities — there’s enough here to keep you busy all winter.

Check out the Grand Rapids trail map guide for more!

Eat, Drink, & Be Merry

Never underestimate the great indoors in Grand Rapids. With over 50 local eating and drinking spots, Grand Rapids has it all — from rustic to rockin’, from fast eats to fine dining. 

In 2025 alone two new fine dining restaurants opened up, and there’s no shortage of classic “pub grub” spots, giving visitors a deliciously wide range of options.

Check out all our local restaurant and bars!

Luscious Lodging

From hotels, motels and Bed & Breakfasts to AirBnBs and vacation rentals, there’s so many places to call home during your stay in Grand Rapids. That includes some of the most scenic spots in Minnesota, with countless cabin and home rentals overlooking our stunning frozen lakes. Whether you want to be deep in the wilderness with access to ski trails or you’d prefer to stay closer to town, we’ve got lodging options that fit any family, any budget.

Check out the local lodging options in Grand Rapids!

Shop ‘til You Drop, Winter Style

Locally owned and conveniently located, Grand Rapids boasts a bevy of boutique shops in the beautiful downtown area. From art and fashion to home decor and jewelry and much more, you’ll have no trouble finding what your heart desires in our shopping district. 

And you can make a day of it, with close access to even more shopping opportunities in our neighboring towns of Bigfork, Bovey, Coleraine, Deer River, Marcell, Nashwauk, and Pengilly.

See all the stores we’ve got in store!

Local Flavor, Local Fun

Our greatest asset? Arguably our culture. There’s simply no shortage of it in Grand Rapids, with live music, theater, historical attractions and much more to choose from. Catch a show at the state-of-the-art Reif Center, a performing arts venue which hosts more than 40 events a year; check out the MacRostie Art Center, which holds a new art exhibit every month; or take a walk down the Yellow Brick Road at the Judy Garland Museum — to name just a few!

Check out everything going on in Grand Rapids!

No matter what you love doing in the winter, you’ll love doing it in Grand Rapids. Find out more about the entertainment, amenities and lodging options in Minnesota’s favorite winter getaway!

Learn more at VisitGrandRapids.com! 

If you think the Glensheen Mansion is something to look at now, just wait until you see how it looks for Christmas — because this month, you’ll get your chance.

Perched on the shores of Lake Superior in Duluth, the iconic 20,000 square-foot historic home will again be welcoming yuletide joy — and yuletide visitors — into its sprawling spaces for its annual Christmas tours.

Starting November 28 and running through December 28, Glensheen’s 2025 Candlelight Tours feature more than two dozen Christmas trees throughout the mansion, with many themed to different countries and cultures. That’s where this year’s theme, ”Joy to the World,” comes in. With a nod to the mansion’s original occupants, this celebration highlights the Congdon family’s global travels — with real artifacts from their exploits on display throughout the tour.

In fact, the Christmas tree in the library will feature original Congdon family ornaments — just one example of the holiday cheer you can expect to find throughout the house. And we do mean throughout the house: these tours (depending on which you select) give guests access to all five of the home’s levels, each richly decorated for the occasion.

2 tours, so many ways to enjoy Glensheen

For the 2025 holiday season, Glensheen Mansion is offering two tour options: Christmas Classic and Full Mansion Tours.

Christmas Classic: Covers the signature rooms in the mansion including access to the lower level, first, and second floors.

Full Mansion: Covers all five floors, including the lower level, first, second, third floors, and attic.

In addition, the mansion will be offering Candlelight Tours on Friday-Sunday weekends, also starting November 28th and running through December 28th. Taking place during the evening hours, these jaunts are a great way to glimpse the warm glow of Christmas and candlelights in a truly enchanted setting.

Don’t miss out on this historic holiday treat. Buy tickets for Christmas tours at Glensheen today! 

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE!

View the 14 images of this gallery on the original article

In it, the Twin Cities placed highly among the cities included in the survey. Minneapolis ranked 8th, while St. Paul was just a few spots behind at 12th.

The survey looked at the 100 largest cities in the country across 28 "key indicators of environmental friendliness and sustainability," WalletHub says. 

Those data points include greenhouse gas emissions per capita, green job opportunities, the number of smart-energy policies, air quality, walkability, and more visible metrics like the amount of green space.

Those indicators were grouped into four parent categories: Environment rank, transportation rank, energy sources rank, and lifestyle and policy rank.

Minneapolis, in particular, ranked highly in a couple of places, topping all cities in transportation and placing fourth in lifestyle and policy.

That transportation category, in which St. Paul ranked 12th, includes metrics like total miles of bicycle lanes, average commute time by car, accessibility of jobs by public transit, and alternative fuel stations per capita.

Transportation was weighted the second most heavily of the parent categories behind environment, which includes air quality index, green space, water quality, population density, and greenhouse gas emissions per capita. Minneapolis placed 25th there, with St. Paul finishing 12th.

You can dig deeper into the details of the study and various scores at the WalletHub site. Here are the top 10 cities in the country, per WalletHub's metric.

1. San Jose, Calif.
2. Washington, D.C.
3. Oakland, Calif.
4. Irvine, Calif.
5. San Francisco, Calif
6. Honolulu, Hawaii
7. San Diego, Calif.
8. Minneapolis, Minn.
9. Portland, Ore.
10. Seattle, Wash.

Related: Minnesota is one of the safest states in the US, according to new study

In a field dominated by Wisconsin hubs, Madden's on Gull Lake, a resort in Brainerd, has landed in fifth place on the 2025 list. 

It's the seventh time in nine years that Madden's has found itself on this particular list, including five straight appearances starting in 2021.

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"Located on the Gull Lake shoreline two hours from the Twin Cities, Madden’s golf courses, gardens, and water activities are a draw for family vacationers," the list reads, praising amenities like its four golf courses, five pools, three beaches, and lakeside spa.

Earlier this year, Madden's on Gull Lake was included in a similar list of readers' favorite Midwest resorts from Travel + Leisure.

Three of the other four locales, including the top-placed resort, were in Wisconsin: Canoe Bay in Chetek (4th), Wild Rice Retreat in Bayfield (3rd), and Grand Geneva Resort and Spa in Lake Geneva (1st).

Elsewhere in the readers' choice awards, Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) was ranked sixth among the best airports in the United States.

Related: Minneapolis hotel is again among Conde Nast Traveler's best in the Midwest

Personal finance site WalletHub has another new study, which this time looks at safety on a state level. It sifted through what it calls 52 "key indicators" of safety for all 50 states, including assaults per capita, financial losses from climate disasters per resident, and economic factors such as unemployment.

Those indicators were grouped into five categories: Personal and residential safety, financial safety, road safety, workplace safety, and emergency preparedness.

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While there are multiple categories, the indicators under personal and residential safety are the most heavily weighted, accounting for 40% of each state's score. All other categories were weighted at 15%. 

When all the data was compiled, Minnesota placed well, coming in eighth.

The state's score was buoyed by placing fifth in financial safety, second in road safety, and sixth in workplace safety. It finished 23rd for personal and residential safety and emergency preparedness.

Minnesota was the only Upper Midwest state to place in the top 10. However, Iowa wasn't far behind in 12th.

Of course, states aren't monolithic, and any study ranking states is, at least to some extent, pretending that they are. So, you know, take it with a grain of salt.

Here's a look at the top 10 finishers, per WalletHub's specific take on safety.

1. Vermont
2. Massachusetts
3. New Hampshire
4. Maine
5. Utah
6. Connecticut
7. Hawaii
8. Minnesota
9. Rhode Island
10. Wyoming

Related: Ice Castles will return to Minnesota State Fairgrounds this winter

Personal finance site WalletHub has released its annual list of the "Best Small Cities in America," attempting to quantify the perks of living in smaller cities across the U.S.

For the study, the company compared more than 1,300 U.S. cities with populations between 25,000 and 100,000 using 45 indicators of livability, such as housing costs, job availability, school system quality, and restaurants per capita.

Those indicators are each a piece of five parent categories: Affordability, economic health, education and health, quality of life, and safety. 

However, instead of doing a hard ranking, as it often does, WalletHub used the scores to group cities into percentiles.

Eight Minnesota cities ranked in the 93rd-97th percentiles, putting them in the top 100 nationally, according to WalletHub's numbers and in the top 100 nationally.

Those top cities were:

• Lakeville (34th overall)
• Prior Lake (36th)
• Cottage Grove (48th)
• Shakopee (58th)
• Woodbury (61st)
• Savage (71st)
• Minnetonka (77th)
• Chaska (89th).

Lakeville was buoyed by its placement as third in affordability nationwide. It was followed closely in that category by Andover, which placed sixth, though its cumulative rank was down in the 61st percentile.

Prior Lake also ranked well in that category, placing 12th in affordability and 19th in safety. The latter category was a spot where other Minnesota cities placed highly, with Chaska in 4th, Savage in 8th, Lakeville in 13th, Prior Lake at 19th, and Shakopee at 24th.

The highest-ranked Minnesota cities are largely found in the Twin Cities suburbs. Around the 76th percentile, other cities like Duluth, Austin, Mankato, and Winona begin to surface.

Here's a look at the top-ranking Minnesota cities in WalletHub's survey, each with their percentile listed before the city.

• 97th percentile: Lakeville
• 97: Prior Lake
• 97: Cottage Grove
• 97: Shakopee
• 96: Woodbury
• 96: Savage
• 95: Minnetonka
• 94: Chaska
• 92: Eagan
• 90: Plymouth
• 89: Inver Grove Heights
• 88: Eden Prairie
• 87: Owatonna
• 86: Maple Grove
• 86: Ramsey
• 84: Edina
• 82: Blaine
• 82: Apple Valley
• 81: Burnsville
• 76:Oakdale
• 76: Duluth
• 72: Richfield
• 71: Austin
• 68: Mankato
• 68: Winona
• 66: Coon Rapids
• 65: Chanhassen
• 64: St. Louis Park
• 63: Bloomington
• 61: Andover
• 59: Brooklyn Park
• 56: White Bear Lake
• 55: Fridley

Related: The 'Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota' contest announces 2025 finalists

USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards has named the Harvest Moon Festival in Ely as one of the best fall festivals in the entire country.

The publication touts the fest as a showcase "of the finest artisans found across northern Minnesota," while also praising its market, vintage cars, and abundant, "hearty" food.

Unfortunately for anyone inspired to take action, the 2025 edition of Harvest Moon took place over the weekend of Sept. 5. So, set a calendar reminder for next summer.

USA Today has an almost constant stream of lists coming together, with each whittled down to a longlist of contenders by editors and experts. Those finalists are put up to a vote to determine the "best" in the country.

The list, unveiled earlier this week, was topped by the West Side Nut Club Fall Festival in Evansville, Ind. However, Harvest Moon wasn't the only Upper Midwest gathering to make the final cut. Verona Fall Fest in Verona, Wis., came in seventh.

As Americans' expected retirement age continues to climb, personal finance site Wallet Hub has issued a new study about the best and worst cities for retirees, and Minneapolis placed high on the list.

"Retirement isn't all about the money," the study's authors state. "Retirees want to live in a place where they enjoy safety and access to good healthcare, especially in light of significant inflation and economic uncertainty. The ideal city will also have lots of ways to spend leisure time, along with good weather."

WalletHub broke down 182 U.S. cities using a variety of metrics, which were put into four umbrella categories: Affordability, Activities, Quality of Life, and Health Care.

Minneapolis ranked third in the nation, buoyed in part by high scores in the activities and health care categories.

"Minneapolis is the third-best place to retire, and it has one of the most elderly-friendly labor markets in the country, meaning that it has a large percentage of jobs that are easy to perform even for elderly residents," the study says.

It goes on to praise Minneapolis as a caring city with a high number of nursing homes, recreation and senior centers.

Other Upper Midwest cities also placed in the top half of the study, including Madison (ninth), Sioux Falls (13th), St. Paul (21st), Bismarck (22nd), and Fargo (25th), among others.

Here are the top 10 cities, per WalletHub.

1. Orlando, Fla.
2. Scottsdale, Ariz.
3. Minneapolis, Minn.
4. Miami, Fla.
5. Tampa, Fla.
6. Atlanta, Ga.
7. Fort Lauderdale, Fla
8. Cincinnati, Ohio
9. Madison, Wis.
10. Casper, Wyo.

Here are the 10 cities that scored worst among the 182 in the study.

• 173. Brigeport, Conn.
• 174. Salem, Ore.
• 175. Pearl City, Hawaii
• 176. Fontana, Calif.
• 177. Fresno, Calif.
• 178. Newark, N.J.
• 179. Bakersfield, Calif.
• 180. Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.
• 181. Stockton, Calif.
• 182. San Bernardino, Calif.

Related: Diane's Place in Minneapolis named Food & Wine's restaurant of the year

On this year's list are The Quarry at Giants Ridge in Biwabik, The Wilderness at Fortune Bay in Tower, and The Classic at Madden's in Brainerd. All have made the annual ranking for the past 14 years or more.

The Quarry is the highest-ranking Minnesota course on the list at No. 58 this year, though it was No. 43 last year. Golf Digest calls out its "inventive design" and its standout 13th hole, "a drivable par-4 that's nearly as wide as it is long, with three alternate routes to a 100-yard-wide green."

The Wilderness at Fortune Bay (No. 72) gets a nod from Golf Digest for its options of play. The magazine wrote back in 2005, the year after the course opened, that "its options outnumber its rock outcroppings, and there are outcroppings galore."

"Where The Quarry uses slopes and ramps, Wilderness rewards aerial play, with some high-low alternate fairways, lake-edged greens and a pair of drop-shot par-3s," Golf Digest wrote in this year's ranking.

Last but not least for the Minnesota courses, Golf Digest calls The Classic (No. 80) at Maddens on Gull Lake "beautiful but not for the faint of heart," due to its hills and challenging shots. It does have an "easier alternate layouts for high-handicappers," though, like other multiple-course operations.

Meanwhile, Pebble Beach Golf Links in California held onto the No. 1 spot, which it's done since 2003.

"Not just the greatest meeting of land and sea in American golf, but the most extensive one, too, with nine holes perched immediately above the crashing Pacific surf—the fourth through 10th plus the 17th and 18th," Golf Digest wrote.

Many of Golf Digest's favorite public courses are in coastal states, including Florida, North and South Carolina, Nevada and Oregon.

But our Midwestern neighbor to the east, Wisconsin, has 10 public courses on the list.

The top-rated Wisconsin course is Erin Hills Golf Course in Hartford, at No. 10 for the second year in a row.

See the full 2025-2026 list of America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses here.

Related: Top 200 golf courses in America? 2025 list features 3 in Minnesota, 7 in Wisconsin

Some happy hours are alluring simply for offering drinks at a solid discount. Other revelers may require a happy hour with beautifully crafted cocktails. Still others might be hunting for a dive bar, a moody vibe, activities like pinball, or bar snacks. 

Well, there's a happy hour for everyone if you know where to look. Here are 30 happy hours around Minneapolis that each offer something a little different, but are nonetheless worth remembering. 

[Note: Happy hour specials can change. The offers below were current at the time of publication.]

331 Club

When: Monday–Friday, until 6 p.m.

In addition to its daily concerts, which are usually free (though tips are appreciated), the Northeast bar offers $4 pints from Fair State Brewing and Pryes Brewing. 331 13th Ave. NE, Minneapolis

A Bar of Their Own

When: Wednesday–Friday, 4–6 p.m.

The sports bar focused on women's sports already offers good reasons to stop in, but beyond Frost and Lynx games, there are tempting specials. Those include $1 off all drinks, a $20 pitcher of Bent Paddle Light, $5 fries or tots, $8 Half Court Chicken Dunks, and $10 Halftime Knockout Nachos, among other food offers. 2207 Franklin Ave. E, Minneapolis

Aster Cafe

When: Tuesday—Thursday and Sunday, 4–6 p.m.

Grab $5 taps, $7 sangria, $9 wine, or $4 pulled pork sliders during Aster Cafe's happy hour. 125 SE Main St., Minneapolis

Barbette

When: Monday–Friday, 2–5 p.m.

The restaurant just down the street from Bde Maka Ska and Lake of the Isles has $6 house wine, select draft beers, house cocktails, and snacks. For a little more, it also has some craft cocktails, mussels, and Herbed Chevre & Grilled Baguette. 1600 W Lake St., Minneapolis

Beckett's

When: Monday–Friday, 2–6 p.m.

The relatively new, kitschy sports bar at Lyn-Lake offers $5 off cocktail buckets, 22-ounce "big beers" for $5, and $5 smashburgers, which is a very solid combination. 3006 Lyndale Ave. S, Minneapolis

Blue Door Pub

When: Daily, but hours vary at both locations

The University and Longfellow locations have different hours for their happy hours, but the deals are the same. Take $2 off most tap beers and all wines. Additionally, they're offering half-price french fries, tots, deep-fried pickles, deep-fried green beans, and totchos. Longfellow: 3448 42nd Ave. S, Minneapolis; University: 1514 Como Ave. SE, Minneapolis

Borough

When: Monday–Friday, 4–6 p.m.

Take $2 off drafts, house cocktails, and wine by the glass, as well as $10 off bottles of wine. There are also plenty of discounted food items, including $6 fries, $10 Chicken Bites, and a $10 Parlour Dog, which comes with curry remoulade, fresh and fried onions, and a pickle relish. 730 N Washington Ave., Minneapolis

Bryant Lake Bowl

When: Monday–Friday, 3–6 p.m.; and Sunday–Thursday, 10 p.m.–1 a.m.

The bowling alley, bar, and theater offers $1 off tap beer, $3 tallboys, $4 house wine, $5 rail cocktails, and select apps and tacos for $4. 810 W Lake St., Minneapolis

Bull's Horn

When: Monday–Friday, 4–6 p.m.

Grab wings for $8.50, cheese curds for $7.25, and hard-shell tacos for $2. Additionally, the bar offers a buck off beer, house wine, and rail drinks. 4563 S 34th Ave., Minneapolis

Butcher and the Boar

When: Daily, 4–6 p.m.

The North Loop restaurant offers $2 off all beers, a $7 Butcher Burger, $7 Beer Brat, $7 house wine, $10 chicken sandwich, and other specials. Plus, it's got that new patio that makes a summertime happy hour quite appealing. 901 N 3rd St. Suite 195, Minneapolis

Related: Butcher & The Boar debuts expansive new patio, menu

CC Club

When: Daily

The CC Club's regulars include a $15 pitcher of select beers and a variety of shot and drink combos like tequila and a 16-ounce Grain Belt ($8) or Irish whiskey and a 16-ounce CC Ryder ($10). It's a straightforward affair, which is probably what you should have expected. 2600 Lyndale Ave. S, Minneapolis

The Freehouse

When: Monday–Sunday, 2–6 p.m.

The Freehouse's happy hour menu is extensive. It includes $6 Freehouse taps, $8 wine and sangria, and $8 rail drinks. For food, find $5 mashed potatoes, Tajin tortilla chips, and Lemon Goat Cheese with croutes, blistered cherry tomatoes, and balsamic, among other dishes. 701 N Washington Ave., Minneapolis

Hai Hai 

When: Sunday–Thursday, 4–5:30 p.m.

It offers select taps for $5 and house wines for $9, as well as a Hai Noon cocktail and its Panda Punch for $8. You can also grab food specials like the Tom Yum Chips & Thai Chili Dip for $7 or Wonton Nachos for $9. 2121 University Ave. NE, Minneapolis

Hola Arepa

When: Monday–Friday, 4–5:30 p.m.; Sunday, 3 p.m.–close

Find select beers for $5, select wines for $8, and select cocktails for $8. The food specials include yuca fries or the Chips and 4 Salsas for $6. Additionally, on Mondays, its MMMMONDAY promo includes $9 margaritas, $6 Modelos, and $6 mocktails. 2501 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis

Jackson's Hole Bar & Grill

When: Monday–Sunday, hours vary (see below)

From 4 to 7 p.m., take $2 off beer and cocktails. From 9 p.m. to midnight, grab $3 rail drinks and Coors Light taps. Its food specials change daily, but include $3 off tacos on Tuesdays and $2 off pasta on Wednesdays. 106 N 3rd St., Minneapolis

Jakeeno's Pizza & Pasta

When: Varies

The hours vary for Jakeeno's many specials, but the deals include $4 pints all day on Mondays; $4 pints from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays; and half-price wine bottles on Sundays. 

Mixed in there are a lot of food specials as well, like a $10 large one-topping pizza with the purchase of a beverage on Tuesdays (dine-in) or a large two-topping pizza, garlic cheese toast, and a two-liter soda for $30 on Sundays. 3555 Chicago Ave., Minneapolis

Kyatchi

When: Daily, 4–6 p.m.

The happy hour at this Nicollet eatery includes $7 hot sakes and $3 off tap beers and glasses of wine, among other deals. There are also food specials, including discounts on sushi. 3758 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis

Litt Pinball Bar

When: Monday–Thursday, 2–6 p.m.

Take $2 off draft beers, rail cocktails, and Tangz on tap. The pinball hub also offers buy-two-get-one-free appetizers during happy hour. 2021 Hennepin Ave. S, Minneapolis

Modist Brewing

When: Sunday–Wednesday, 4–6 p.m.

The North Loop brewery offers $5 Dreamyards and $4 Supra Deluxe drafts. Its site also says there are occasional weekly specials during happy hour. Drop in and find out. 505 N 3rd St., Minneapolis

Moto-i

When: Daily, 3–5 p.m.

There are a lot of items on the Moto-i happy hour list, but the big attractions are $3 off sake by the glass, $7 sake cocktails, $5 tap beers, and $5 Godzilla Bombs. There are also food specials with prices ranging from $5 to $14. 2940 Lyndale Ave. S, Minneapolis

Murray's

When: Monday–Friday, 4–6 p.m.

No, you don't have to spend $100 to stop by Murray's. Its happy hour is alluring, both for drinks and food. It includes $6 wines, cocktails for $6–$8, and draft beers for $5. Additionally, you can take $2 off Murray's Sliders or grab a Murray's Steak Burger for $10. 26 S 6th St., Minneapolis

Nolo's Kitchen & Bar

When: Monday–Friday, 3–5:30 p.m.

It's serving up cocktails for as little as $6, wines for $5, Prosecco for $5, and draft beers for $5.50. Additionally, there are food specials, like the Smashwich for $10, Cauliflower and Mushroom Quesadilla for $9, and Nolo Dog for $10. 515 N Washington Ave., Minneapolis

Northeast Social Club

When: Tuesday–Friday, 4–5 p.m.

It's a brief but happy hour at Northeast Social Club. On the drinks side of the menu, it offers $7 well drinks, $6 wine by the glass, and $2 off signature cocktails and draft beer. On the food side, you can snag $7 truffle fries, a $10 smashburger, an $8 glizzy of the week, and a $7 Caesar salad, among other items. 359 13th Ave. NE, Minneapolis

O'Shaughnessy Distilling

When: Tuesday–Thursday, 5–6 p.m.; Friday, 4–6 p.m.

The prices aren't as low as some spots, but you're getting Keeper's Heart whiskey cocktails off a menu of consistently delightful drinks. For $11, it offers a variety of old fashioneds, mules, Keeper's sour, or house punch. You can also take advantage of a handful of food specials, including the wildly popular Irish Spice Bag for $15. 600 Malcolm Ave. SE, Minneapolis

Related: The Irish Spice Bag at a Minneapolis distillery is having a moment

Pat's Tap

When: Daily, 3–6 p.m.

The bar with a Nicollet Ave. patio and skee-ball offers $5 taps, $7 house wine and rail drinks, $9 margaritas, and the Pat's Old Fashioned for $9. On the food side, there are loads of specials, including a $5 order of fries, fried pickles with ranch dip for $7, and cheese curds with a tasty smoked ketchup for $9. 3510 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis

Pizza Luce

When: Monday-Friday, 3–6 p.m. (and other times listed below)

In some ways, hitting the local pizza chain for a happy hour isn't novel. But the deals are worthwhile. The standard happy hour has $5 taps, rail drinks, and house wine, as well as $2 off select apps. 

Additionally, at the Downtown and Uptown Minneapolis locations, Luce offers the same deal from 10 p.m. to midnight on Monday through Thursday, as well as $1 off all cans and bottles all day on Monday. The Seward location has the Monday deal, as well as $5 tap beer all day on Tuesdays. Downtown: 119 N 4th St., Minneapolis; Uptown: 3200 Lyndale Ave. S, Minneapolis; Seward: 2200 E Franklin Ave., Minneapolis

Smack Shack

When: Monday-Friday, 2–6 p.m.

The lobster roll hub has $6 tap beers, house wines, and rail cocktails, as well as $10 house martinis and margaritas, among other cocktail offers. You'll also find food specials — the price of which recently increased — such as a $15 Shack Burger, $10 Fried Shrimp Bucket, or $18 for a half-dozen oysters on the half shell. 603 N Washington Ave., Minneapolis

Stanley's NE Bar Room

When: Monday–Friday, 3–6 p.m.

The bar's list of specials is a tome. The 2–5 p.m. deals include $1 off tap beers, $5 rail cocktails, $4 Coors Lights, $7 pretzel sticks and quesadilla, and $9 cheese curds. But there's a lot more, with a whole bunch of specials that are just offered on a single day of the week. 2500 University Ave. NE, Minneapolis

Up Down

When: Different deals daily

The Lyn-Lake arcade bar has a different special each day of the week. Those include $1 off all draft beer on Mondays, $1 off Minnesota beers on Tuesdays, $3 domestic tallboys on Wednesdays, and $25 for a six-pack of domestic cans on Sundays. It also offers 10-cent tokens for games all day on Thursdays. 3012 Lyndale Ave. S, Minneapolis

Wrecktangle Pizza

When: Daily, 3–6 p.m.

Just a few steps from Up Down sits another happy hour that makes the trek to Lyn-Lake worthwhile. During the daily happy hour, all starters except the pickle roll-up and Wingz are $3 off. You'll also find $4 house wines, $6 margaritas, a $7 tallboy and shooter team-up, and a $9 White Claw and shooter combo. 

There are also a few day-long deals, including $6 margaritas and $12 margheritas (the pizza) on Mondays and $3 off pizzas all day on Wednesdays. 703 W Lake St., Minneapolis

Related: 22 St. Paul happy hours you should know about

University of Minnesota researchers, whose findings were recently published in the Canadian Journal of Plant Pathology, found the 14 previously unreported species of water molds during the sampling years of 2020-2023.

All belong to the genus Phytophthora, which translates to "plant destroyer" in Greek. The research project documented a total of 22 species of Phytophthora around the state.

"With over 5,000 hosts, including trees, crops and ornamental plants, Phytophthora causes some of the world's most destructive plant diseases such as sudden oak death as well as the root rot, decline and mortality of many woody species,” stated study co-author Robert Blanchette, a professor in the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences.

According to the U of M, researchers plan to study the newly detected Phytophthora species to better understand how easily they can spread disease. They will also continue monitoring for additional species that haven't yet been found in Minnesota.

"As we’ve learned from other devastating forest pathogens, early detection is the key to mitigating large economic losses,” stated lead author Nickolas Rajtar, a post-doctoral associate in the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences.

According to the U of M, wet conditions can drive the development and spread of Phytophthora diseases. 

New attractions, exhibits and rides offer visitors of all ages the chance to envision themselves as an astronaut, soaring through space, when the Great Minnesota Get-Together returns Aug. 21 to Sept. 1. Whether that's exploring the International Space Station or manning a spaceship, this year's fair will be truly out of this world.

Here's a look at the new attractions, exhibitions, upgrades and retailers to know about for the 2025 Minnesota State Fair.

Journey to Space: A free exhibit that gives future astronauts a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of space exploration, with immersive displays that show what it's like to travel to and be on board the International Space Station. The Science Museum of Minnesota and the California Science Center produced this hands-on exhibit with support from NASA. It's located in the North End Event Center and open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. all 12 days of the fair.

The Evolution of the Spacesuit: NASA lands at the fair for the first time! This exhibit led by NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland features five full-scale spacesuits from historic, present and future space missions. Plus, there's a moon rock from the Apollo 15 mission and a meet-and-greet with NASA Deputy Chief Flight Director Michael Lammers, an Albert Lea High School graduate. Like the Journey to Space exhibit, it can also be found in the North End Event Center, but only from Aug. 21-24.

The Thunderbird: Soar 180 feet in the air – not quite to space, but close enough – and take in panoramic views of the fairgrounds from what's billed as the tallest portable swing in North America. This family-friendly ride is located at Adventure Park, open daily from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., and costs $8 per rider.

Lee & Rose Warner Coliseum renovation: The nearly 75-year-old building where livestock exhibitions take place is undergoing a $22 million multi-year renovation. New features to date include two ramps in the north and south concourses to provide better access to wheelchair seating areas, which have also been redone to make them easier to enter and navigate. The coliseum is open every day from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

The Scorpion and Overdrive: These two rides are bringing more thrills to the Mighty Midway, open daily from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. The Scorpion is a three-armed attraction to tilt and swing through the air for a soaring sensation, while Overdrive a top-speed racing experience with fast-action spinning sleds.

Hampton Space Age and Jumbo: The Kidway gets two new rides this year, too. Before or after visiting the Journey to Space exhibit, junior astronauts can hop into their own spaceship for a ride on Hampton Space Age; and Disney fans can fly through the sky on their own magical elephant, Jumbo. The Kidway is open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day.

The North Star Garden: This year, Bachman's annual floral showcase honors the bold biomes, native plants and pollinators that make Minnesota unique in the Agriculture Horticulture Building, open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Adam Turman store: Minnesota artist Adam Turman returns to the fair with a bigger shop, featuring more than 200 items, including original paintings, prints of State Fair art, clothing, and mugs by Deneen Pottery. The store is located on the upper level of the Grandstand, open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. 

Other fresh fairground features include an expanded Gate 2 at the north end of the fairgrounds, new displays in the Creative Activities Building, audio descriptions of artwork at the Fine Arts Center, and historical highlights throughout the fairgrounds.

On the food side, arguably the most important part of the Minnesota State Fair, there are 33 new items and eight new vendors. That's in addition to 70 drinks that are either brand new or exclusive to the fair.

The burger patty sandwiched between two deep-fried peanut butter and grape jelly Uncrustables might be the standout on the 2025 new foods list. If not for taste, certainly for shock value.

Street Eats is the latest foodie destination, located on the northwest corner of Randall Avenue and Underwood Street, featuring Summer Lakes Beverage, Scenic 61 by New Scenic Café and Baba's Food Co.

There's also hope that the line for one of last year's most popular foods will be a bit shorter this year. Pickle pizza lovers will be happy to hear that Rick's Pizza is adding a second stand at the fair.

Related: The 10 new Minnesota State Fair foods we can't wait to try

Plus, there are 12 nights of concerts at the Grandstand and dozens of free shows throughout the fairgrounds, including on stages at the International Bazaar and West End Market.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Daryl Hall rounds out the full 2025 lineup of Grandstand headliners. He replaces the Steve Miller Band, who recently called off their tour including an Aug. 28 stop at the fair due to the ongoing impact of extreme weather on outdoor concerts.

Other headliners include Atmosphere, The Avett Brothers, Melissa Etheridge and Indigo Girls, Meghan Trainor, Def Leppard, The Turtles, and Nelly with Ja Rule, Mya, and Ying Yang Twins.

New State Fair Foods 2025

View the 33 images of this gallery on the original article

Related: All the concerts happening at the 2025 Minnesota State Fair

Well, a little of everything, based on a Readers' Choice poll from Newsweek that just arrived. One of its latest top 10s is for the best bowling alley, and the Bryant Lake Bowl in Minneapolis, recently seen on the cover of a The Black Keys album, is on the list.

The Uptown staple ranked fourth in the nation, and it was some of those non-bowling features that may have given the Lake Street hub a boost.

"Get ready for a great double feature: a rowdy improv show and a game on the lanes," Newsweek editors write. "The 1950s vibe and cabaret theater set the stage for what's become a popular date-night spot in Uptown Minneapolis."

While "become" might be applicable if the article was written in the late '90s, my mom told me it's not nice to nitpick. 

Newsweek's many readers' choice lists are compiled by having editors and experts put together a long list of contenders in each category. Then, those contenders are put to a vote.

Maybe it's not the most scientific method of determining the best bowling alley, but it's a nice feather in the cap for the former home of "A Very Die Hard Christmas."

Here is the complete top 10 from Newsweek, including the surprising Wyoming town that took the top spot.

1. Nana's Bowling & Bakery - Dubois, Wyo.
2. Galaxy Strikes Bowling Center - Warrenton, Va.
3. Boardwalk Bowl - Orlando, Fla.
4. Bryant Lake Bowl and Theater - Minneapolis, Minn.
5. The Painted Duck - Atlanta, Ga.
6. Brooklyn Bowl - Brooklyn, N.Y.
7. Stardust Bowl - Addison, Ill.
8. 30 Strikes - Stratford, N.J.
9. Aiea Bowl - Aiea, Hawaii
10. Wonder Bowl - Ned Medford, Mass.

Related: The Irish Spice Bag at a Minneapolis distillery is having a moment

Well, Newsweek has, and the publication says the best the nation has to offer is stationed in St. Paul. 

Newsweek's newly released Readers' Choice poll for the best escape room in the U.S. has The Lodge of Lazarus Crowe at the top of the list.

The attraction, stationed in a former funeral home at 560 7th St. W, contains a whole bunch of escape room experiences such as the steampunk-inspired "Unstable Reactor" or the surreal "Dreamscape."

"If you love dark academia brewed with a spoonful of paranormal, then the Lodge of Lazarus Crowe is your cup of tea," Newsweek says in its ranking. "Brush up your elixir-making skills in the Apothecary, one of the easier scenarios, or dial up the difficulty in the Arcane Library as you attempt to rein in unstable magic."

It goes on to remind curious puzzle solvers that you can cap off the adventure with a cocktail at its Hourglass Cafe & Bar.

All of the publication's Readers' Choice awards get winnowed to a longlist of finalists by a team of editorial experts. Then, it's put to readers (and anyone companies direct to their voting pages) to decide which are the best.

Here's the complete list of the best escape rooms in the country, according to Newsweek.

1. The Lodge of Lazarus Crowe - St. Paul, Minn.
2. Escape Artist Greenville - Greenville, S.C.
3. Cluville Kids Escape Room - Scottsdale, Ariz.
4. Escape Games PDX - Portland, Ore.
5. Fox in a Box - Chicago, Ill.
6. Breakout Orange Beach - Orange Beach, Ala.
7. The Great Escape Room - Queens, N.Y.
8. The Nemesis Club - Phoenix, Ariz.
9. Protoype Escape Games - Jacksonville, Fla.
10. Escape Room Arlington - Arlington, Va.

Related: 'Stranger Things' star bringing musical project to Minneapolis

When Amy Klobuchar wouldn't say whether Minnesota or Iowa had a better state fair in 2019, residents of her home state let her know what they thought was obviously the correct answer.

Now, USA Today's 10 Best is running a readers' choice poll on the best state fairs in the country, and, of course, the Minnesota State Fair is in the running.

It's up against fairs from across the country, including popular events in Iowa, Illinois, Texas, Alaska, and California.

The polling will be open through noon on Monday, July 28, for anyone looking to defend their state's honor.

USA Today plans to announce the results on Wednesday, Aug. 6, just in time for Minnesotans to celebrate a victory at the State Fair. (Or, conversely, to angrily head to the fairgrounds and gesture broadly at the Midway and deep-fried oddities, asking how anyone could think there's a better state fair than this.)

Related: The 10 new Minnesota State Fair foods we can't wait to try in 2025

Heights Bakery, which has been closed since July 4 for an extended summer break, revealed that it will reopen on Tuesday, July 22 — but only for a little more than a week before shutting down for good on Friday, Aug. 1. 

"We understand that this may shock and sadden many of our fans, but we also know that we have been blessed with an incredibly supportive, caring customer base who will recognize the people behind the treats, and for that, and so much more, we enter these final weeks with immense gratitude," the bakery announced on its Facebook page. 

The bakery, located at 4925 Central Ave. NE, opened in 1953, making the family-owned shop a 70-plus-year success story that has been driven by four generations. 

"Running a small business is a special kind of challenge, and like any business, while there are good days and bad days, good months and bad months, a bakery is a particular type of physical challenge," the family's Facebook post says. 

Why are they closing for good? The current owners, Debbie Doty and her brother Dave DeShaw — Doty is listed as the chief operating officer, per Minnesota Secretary of State records — are retiring. 

"After spending their entire working lives on their feet, working overnights, dozing through family holidays, working through their own birthdays, and missing important parts of life, it is time for Dave and Debbie to retire and rest," the bakery revealed. 

The plan when they reopen from July 22 through Aug. 1 is to operate during normal business hours (5 a.m. to 6 p.m.), Tuesday-Saturday. However, if they run out of product an any given day, they will close early. 

The iconic dive bar made the shock announcement on its social media pages late Wednesday night, revealing "with heavy hearts" that its final day will be September 14.

"This has been an incredibly difficult but necessary decision and we are devastated to do so," the post reads.

"Thank you so very much to everyone that has been keeping this bar alive since 1906, especially our very faithful regulars, and the incredibly talented musicians that have played our stages over the years

"Above all else, our staff – who make the place so special and who really are the best in the business. We wouldn’t have made it this far without you all."

The bar was bought by Tony Zaccardi, a former bartender at Grumpy's NE and member of Twin Cities band Romantica, in 2018.

Its website notes how the institution at 500 Cedar Ave. survived "prohibition, bootlegging, cathouse raids ... two World Wars, the 50’s, the smoking ban, disco, Jesse, two Bush presidencies, the mullet, the advent of AA and Starbucks, not to mention various urban renewal projects," and more recently can add the COVID-19 pandemic to the list.

A little over a decade ago it was named among the best bars in the United States by Esquire.

"There are dives and there are dives and in this world. There's the type Guy Fieri calls out, old joints that might not feel like they need to get their hair done before seeing company but are nonetheless fundamentally clean and comfortable and unchallenging. Then there's Palmer's," the magazine wrote.

It went on to cite the bar's trough urinals, cheap drinks and a clientele that "does not exclude street people and the sort of untidy old men and women who drink bottom-shelf blended whiskey and make M.B.A.'s shudder."

The announcement by Palmer's does not provide details of the reasons for the closure. 

The lineup of 514 companies includes 16 from the Twin Cities and another from greater Minnesota. 

The unranked list, created in a partnership between the publication and Quantum Workplace, "celebrates companies that foster exceptional workplace cultures and provide outstanding benefits to their employees."

The publication highlights the public relations and social media agency Media Minefield for putting a focus on mental health by eliminating co-pays for virtual therapy and offering unlimited telehealth clinical care. It also offers programs to support employee goals outside of work.

These are the Minnesota companies that made the cut.

• Arctic Wolf Networks (Eden Prairie)
• Beehive Strategic Communication (St. Paul)
• Bold Orange Company (Minneapolis)
• Channel (Minnetonka)
• Clockwork (Minneapolis)
• Clutch Performance (Minneapolis)
• Digital Mass (Minneapolis)
• Elicit (Minneapolis)
• Emergent Software (Minneapolis)
• Gardner Builders (Minneapolis)
• Grey Search + Strategy (Minnetonka)
• Imprint Engine (Brooklyn Center)
• Media Minefield (Minnetonka)
• North Star Resource Group (Minneapolis)
• Pivot Strategies (Minneapolis)
• Prep Network (Plymouth)
• Syvantis (Baxter)

Related: Nearly 3,000 Cub Foods workers win new contract with pension contributions, raises

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources recently announced it had added Anoka, Clay, Ramsey, Sherburne, Steele, Traverse, Wilkin and Wright counties to its list of counties with feeding and attractant bans.

The bans prohibit hunters from using products treated with attractants like food scents, urine and blood.

“The feeding and attractant ban is one tool to reduce unnatural congregating of deer and lower the risk of CWD spread,” Paul Burr, acting big game program coordinator at the DNR, said in a statement.

“We use this tool where it provides the greatest benefit to the health of Minnesota’s white-tailed deer.”

The ban now includes 32 counties, with the eight aforementioned joining Aitkin, Beltrami, Carver, Cass, Crow Wing, Dakota, Dodge, Fillmore, Goodhue, Hennepin, Houston, Hubbard, Itasca, Le Sueur, Mower, Norman, Olmsted, Polk, Rice, Scott, Sibley, Wabasha, Washington and Winona counties.

The policy still allows hunters to use natural or manufactured products without added attractants. 

At least, that's what The Dyrt says. The camping app's 2025 Camping Report has been released, sharing the top 10 places to camp in each region of the United States. The top 10 for the Midwest features two Minnesota camping hubs that ranked quite well.

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park Campground narrowly missed the top spot, landing in second place.

The Dyrt and its users tout the park's beautiful views of Lake Superior, secluded campsites, and easy access to hiking along the Gitchi-Gami State Trail.

Not far behind is the Superior National Forest Fall Lake Campground, which came in fourth. The app boasts of its well-maintained campgrounds, fishing access, and proximity to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

Those two placements tie Minnesota with Michigan as the only states to have more than one spot make the cut. 

Related: Boundary Waters fees may more than double under new proposal

That's been par for the course recently, with two Minnesota locales making the 2024 list (Voyageurs National Park Backcountry Camping and Lamb's Resort) and the 2023 list (Voyageurs, which took first place, and Fall Lake Campground). 

However, in 2022, Minnesota had four in the top ten, with Split Rock Lighthouse State Park taking the top spot and Bear Head Lake State Park coming in second.

The Dyrt constructs its rankings through reviews and ratings from its community of campers, who use the app to find free campsites or wilderness spaces that offer desirable amenities for the type of camping they require.

Here are the top 10 spots to camp in the Midwest, according to The Dyrt. 

1. Sandy Springs Campground — Ohio
2. Split Rock Lighthouse State Park Campground — Minnesota
3. Copper Falls State Park Campground — Wisconsin
4. Superior National Forest Fall Lake Campground — Minnesota
5. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Backcountry Sites — Michigan
6. Northern Exposure Campground & RV Park — Michigan
7. B Berry Farms & Co. — Missouri
8. F.W. Kent Park — Iowa
9. Oak Point Campground — Lake Glendale — Illinois
10. Follow the River RV Resort — Indiana

Related: A new farmers market just launched in Uptown Minneapolis

The Office of Student Affairs sent a letter Friday announcing the closure, saying it will go into effect when the course closes down for the season — as it typically does each fall.

"We recognize this course holds generations of memories for our community. This decision reflects careful consideration and was made in light of today’s challenging financial environment," said Calvin Phillips, vice president of the U of M's Office of Student Affairs (OSA). 

"As a public university, we have a responsibility to ensure that our land and resources are aligned with our core mission: supporting students, advancing research, and serving the state of Minnesota."

Not included in the sale are the facilities for the men's and women's golf training area (John W. Mooty Golf Facility), the women's soccer stadium (Elizabeth Lyle Robbie Stadium), and the KUOM radio tower. 

Les Bolstad golf course will not reopen in the spring of 2026. 

The Crane Lake Visitor Center at the eastern edge of Voyageurs National Park has recently begun welcoming travelers and will have a grand opening celebration on Friday from 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The opening is part of the park's ongoing 50th anniversary celebration, marking the founding of Minnesota's only national park in 1975.

The new visitor center came to fruition through a partnership between the National Park Service (NPS), Voyageurs Conservancy, and the Crane Lake Township, which raised $3.2 million for a municipal campground and $2.6 million for the community building through the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, per the NPS.

The grand opening on June 6 will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, family activities, paddling with park rangers, refreshments, live music, and tours of the new visitor center, including its temporary exhibits for the year. 

Some of its educational exhibits focus on preserving and enjoying dark skies, the history of the region's indigenous peoples, and regional ecology.

Related: Sean Sherman's Indigenous Food Lab is leaving Midtown Global Market

The publication's 10Best has released its list of the best state parks in the country, and Gooseberry Falls in Two Harbors placed third.

"Situated along Minnesota's spectacular North Shore of Lake Superior, Gooseberry Falls features a series of five dramatic waterfalls cascading through a rugged gorge of volcanic rock," the list boasts.

It goes on to tout the park's 18 miles of hiking trails, lush forests, outdoor activities like cross-country skiing, and array of wildlife that includes otters, black bears, and bald eagles.

Other Upper Midwest parks got some love as well, including Peninsula State Park in Wisconsin's Door County, and Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park in Ontonagon, Mich.

Here's the complete top 10.

1. Letchworth State Park in Castile, N.Y.
2. Blue Spring State Park in Orange City, Fla.
3. Gooseberry Falls in Two Harbors, Minn.
4. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park in Ontonagon, Mich.
5. Ha Ha Tonka State Park in Camdenton, Mo.
6. Peninsula State Park in Fish Creek, Wis.
7. Big Bend Ranch State Park in Terlingua, Texas
8. Lost Dutchman State Park in Apache Junction, Ariz.
9. Stephen C. Foster State Park in Fargo, Ga.
10. Palo Duro Canyon State Park in Canyon, Texas

Each of USA Today's 10Best lists starts with the publication's expert panel building a short list. Then the short list is put up to a public vote that determines the top 10. 

Related: The best hiking trail in the U.S. can be found in Minnesota

So, when WalletHub released its "Best Cities for Hockey" list on Wednesday, the State of Hockey was obviously well represented. Right?

Well... gird yourself, because that's not what happened. 

St. Paul finished best at 13th. Other Minnesota cities include Bemidji at 42nd, Minneapolis at 48th, St. Cloud at 56th, Duluth at 58th, and Mankato at 64th. 

No mention, either, of Eveleth, home of the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame.

It's a bitter pill to swallow, seeing a top 10 devoid of Minnesota representation. Here's what that top 10 looks like. 

1. Boston
2. Detroit
3. Pittsburgh
4. New York City
5. Newark
6. Denver
7. Sunrise
8. Tampa
9. Buffalo
10. St. Louis

Before anyone lights their phone on fire in an attempt to erase this list from history, a little explanation is necessary. 

WalletHub created the list by comparing 76 cities in two parent categories: NHL hockey and NCAA DI hockey. Inside each category, 21 metrics were considered. Additionally, the NHL category was weighted more heavily than the college hockey category. 

Related: LLC linked to Marc-Andre Fleury makes biggest Twin Cities home purchase since 2023

It is, in many ways, set up for Minnesota to fail. The number of NHL teams is considered (advantage to New York) as is the performance of those teams, Stanley Cup wins, and division championship wins, among other metrics. These are metrics where, to be kind, the Minnesota Wild do not come out on top.

Things would look a lot better if women's pro hockey was considered, given the success of the Frost and the Whitecaps before them. 

College hockey makes a positive impact for Minnesota cities, but it only accounts for 20% of the score and only includes men's hockey. 

The absence of women's hockey hurts Minnesota (and is generally absurd) since there are so many good teams in the state, including a handful of championships for the Gophers and the Bulldogs. 

High school hockey and youth hockey participation aren't factored in at all. USA Hockey's most recent data shows Minnesota hockey as having far more youth hockey participation than any other state, with Massachusetts, Michigan, and New York showing well too. 

Though, it's worth noting that those rankings aren't per capita but raw numbers, and Minnesota's population of 5.7 million is quite a bit lower than those other states. Additionally, that's a statewide metric and not boiled down to individual cities. 

In other words, it's not a great study. C'est la vie. Given the methodology, it's hard to argue with the success of the teams like the Panthers, Lightning, Avalanche, Penguins, and all the other teams that have managed to do well enough that they don't wind up as a punchline in an NFL schedule announcement video. 

Related: Minnesota Wild hit with cheap shot in Chargers' NFL schedule release video

A small, resident population of black bears in the 4,900-acre park reserve has been documented since at least 2020. 

"Park guests, volunteers, staff, and nearby neighbors have continued to show incredible support to the resident bears at Elm Creek Park Reserve," Three Rivers Park District Natural Resource Management, which manages the land, shared on Facebook. "It appears there is again a new fresh batch of cubs with mother bear."

According to a post from the Eastman Nature Center, which is a part of the reserve, officials are unsure how many bears reside in the property's sprawling forest because the bears' movements aren't being tracked with collars or other methods.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources does not relocate bears considered to be in their home range, which includes the Twin Cities.

The Three Rivers Park District is urging park-goers to help keep the bears "wild and safe" by learning to live responsibility alongside them in urban areas.

Anyone who encounters the bear cubs without an adult bear present should not touch them, officials say. 

According to Three Rivers, cubs that are alone aren't usually abandoned or orphaned. More likely, the mother bear has gone searching for food.

"If you believe they are truly orphaned, take a quick photo of the cubs that shows the location (no selfies, please), note GPS coordinates if you can, and LEAVE THE AREA," Three Rivers advises, adding the next step would be to  contact the DNR for further guidance.

Park-goers asked to be 'bear aware'

The recent sightings in Elm Creek Park District serve as a reminder for Minnesotans to be "bear aware."

That includes never feeding or approaching bears and keeping all food, garbage and recycling secured.

Nearby residents are also urged to keep pet food indoors, clean and store grills and smokers, remove bird feeders and leash and maintain control of dogs.

More information on bear sightings in Minnesota can be found on the DNR's website here.

That's according to USA Today's 10Best Reader's Choice Awards, which placed The Devil's Kettle Trail at the top of the charts for summer hiking options.

The trail can be found in Judge C.R. Magney State Park, about a 15-mile drive northeast from Grand Marais on Minnesota's North Shore.

The two-mile hike winds its way through forest along the Brule River, taking hikers on a 400-foot climb featuring around 175 steps. It culminates with two waterfalls, one of which is the Devil's Kettle, which sees the river split into two.

"The Devil's Kettle Trail leads to a baffling natural magic trick: a waterfall that splits in two," USA Today writes. "Half the water vanishes into an underground abyss that has stumped geologists for decades."

The Minnesota DNR says that the trail "one of the most unique and rewarding hikes in the country."

"From the peaceful walk through the north woods to the view of the waterfall that seems to defy explanation, it’s a place that sparks wonder and invites people to connect with nature in a very memorable way," said Erin Turner-Garza, park supervisor at Judge C.R. Magney State Park.

While the USA Today write-up notes that the waterfall has "stumped geologists for decades," DNR hydrologists in 2017 found "nearly identical volumes of water flowing both above the Devil's Kettle waterfall and below it, showing the water is likely rejoining the stream below the waterfall."

The publication has also released a list of the 15 best places to live in the state, getting a more granular look at how cities around Minnesota fared in the categories prioritized by the U.S. News report. 

The top entries are the same as the 10 that made the national list, which includes 250 total cities.

The expanded report also names Brooklyn Park, Burnsville, Coon Rapids, St. Paul, and Minneapolis as some of the best places to live around the North Star State.

Here's the full breakdown of the 15 best places to live in Minnesota, according to U.S. News. (Scores are listed in parentheses.)

1. Plymouth (6.8)
2. Maple Grove (6.6)
3. Eden Prairie (6.5)
4. Woodbury (6.5)
5. Rochester (6.4)
6. Eagan (6.1)
7. Mankato (6.1)
8. Blaine (5.9)
9. Bloomington (5.9)
10. Duluth (5.8)
11. Brooklyn Park (5.7)
12. Burnsville (5.7)
13. Coon Rapids (5.5)
14. St. Paul (5.2)
15. Minneapolis (4.9)

Bigger cities seem to be hurt in the methodology — the only city with a population of more than 273,000 in the top 100 was Oklahoma City — because the scores include home prices, cost of living, and commute times, which tend to be higher in larger population centers. 

Though, those same cities likely have an advantage in categories like infrastructure, culture and leisure activities, and commuter resources.

As noted in Bring Me The News' story on the national list, U.S. News crafts its rankings using data from the Applied Geographic Solutions (AGS) as well as its own resources; those sources compile data from agencies like the U.S. Census Bureau, the U.S. Department of Commerce, and other federal, state, and local sources. 

The overall score is derived from five indexes that include a quality of life index (education, healthcare, air quality, environmental risk, state economy, and state infrastructure), a value index (housing affordability and cost of living), a desirability index (crime rates, weather, culture and leisure activities, and commuter resources), a job market index (unemployment and median household income), and net migration, which is not weighted heavily but accounts for whether people are moving to or away from each city.

Related: Minneapolis ranks among best parks in country, while St. Paul drops out of top 3

The highest-ranking city in Minnesota was Plymouth, which ranked 17th in the overall list, despite having a median home value almost $100,000 above the national average home value. It also ranked tenth in the Best Small Cities to Live list.

Other Minnesota cities that made the cut were largely found in the Twin Cities suburbs, with the exceptions of Rochester, Mankato, and Duluth.

Minneapolis and St. Paul did not make the list, though most of the cities included had lower populations. Only five cities in the top 100 had a population of more than 200,000, and all were under 273,000 in the top 100, with the exception of Oklahoma City (boo Thunder).

Of the ten Minnesota cities that made the cut, seven are Twin Cities suburbs.

The Minnesota cities that made the cut were:

17. Plymouth
40. Maple Grove
46: Eden Prairie
54: Woodbury
72: Rochester
116: Eagan
118: Mankato
188: Blaine
215: Bloomington
237: Duluth

The top 10 cities overall were:

1. Johns Creek, Ga.
2. Carmel, Ind.
3. Pearland, Texas
4. Fishers, Ind.
5. Cary, N.C.
6. League City, Texas
7. Apex, N.C.
8. Leander, Texas
9. Rochester Hills, Mich.
10. Troy, Mich.

U.S. News crafts the list using data from Applied Geographic Solutions (AGS) and its own resources, combining data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Department of Commerce, and other federal, state, and local sources.

The list pulls the data into five indexes, including a quality of life index (includes data on education, healthcare, air quality, environmental risk, state economy, and state infrastructure), a value index (includes data on housing affordability and cost of living), a desirability index (includes data on crime rates, weather, culture and leisure activities, and commuter resources), a job market index (includes data on unemployment and median household income), and net migration, which is not weighted heavily but accounts for whether people are moving to or away from each city.

Related: Top 200 golf courses in America? 2025 list features 3 in Minnesota, 7 in Wisconsin

Charter trip site FishingBooker.com has released a list of the top 18 fishing spots for the country in 2025, and it includes Lake of the Woods and Mille Lacs Lake.

"Lake of the Woods is one of the best walleye fisheries in the US. In its waters, you’re just about guaranteed to reel in your limit of these delicious fish, and they come in pretty good sizes to boot," the site says.

"Their sauger cousins are also widespread, so a typical trip will have you releasing a bunch of fish once you’ve hit your combined limit of six."

The sprawling lake that is split between northern Minnesota and southern Ontario is also home to muskies, bass, northerns, yellow perch, and lake sturgeon, with the Minnesota DNR agreeing with FishingBooker that it's where some of the "best year-round fishing" can be found.

Mille Lacs, FishingBooker says, embodies everything that’s great about fishing in the "Land of 10,000 Lakes," boasting "clean waters, beautiful surroundings" and being "absolutely packed with fish."

"Walleye, smallmouth bass, muskellunge, and northern pike all come in trophy sizes in Mille Lacs Lake. This sizable lake boasts catch rates that rival even Lake Erie when it comes to Walleye," it continues.

Mille Lacs is well-known for its bass, and was named last year as one of the 10 best bass lakes to fish in the United States.

The list also features the "Great Lakes" as one of its selections, which should really be counted as five instead of one but it does mention Minnesota's Lake Superior as one of the best spots to catch lake trout.

That's according to the Institute for Quality of Life, which this week released its 2025 Happy City Index, which was topped by the Danish capital of Copenhagen, with Zurich in Switzerland and Singapore in second and third.

The highest ranked U.S. city was New York City in 17th, but Minneapolis was second in 30th place overall, one spot ahead of London and ahead of other U.S. cities including San Diego (34th), Washington D.C. (43rd), and Salt Lake City (56th).

Cities were ranked based on the following categories:

• Citizens: Residents who implement "advanced social policies, focusing on education, inclusivity, and the overall quality of life for their residents." 
• Economy: Best economic performance based on GDP, growth rates, new company numbers and how attractive cities are for businesses.
• Governance: Quality of urban management, transparency of administration, and support for active citizen participation in decision-making processes.
• Health: Living conditions, state of public health, availability of mental health support for adults and children, and healthcare accessibility.
• Environment: Measures to combat pollution, use and promotion of renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainability strategies.
• Mobility: Quality and availability of public transportation, e-services for payments and fares, and accessibility for people with disabilities.

The profile for the city notes strong health insurance coverage, healthcare access, and mental health options in the city, though it notes it has a higher than average obesity rate.

The city is also praised for its sustainability and environmental efforts, with "relatively good" air quality and access to public spaces, with the city's park system regularly lauded among the best in the nation.

You can read more here.