Minneapolis: Ignore the Weather - It's Fun Here!

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There aren’t many other hotels near the Four Points Sheraton, which makes it one of the only choices outside of downtown Saint Paul. Located just off of I-94, this hotel offers luxury at an affordable price. Rooms start at $89/night for a single king or double.

When you first walk into the Sheraton, you will find yourself crossing granite floors to speak with a friendly front-desk staff person. As you move towards the rooms, you walk past the indoor pool in the atrium. The hotel is four or five floors, and the atrium extends to the roof. Surprisingly, the noise from the pool and lobby is contained to those areas and doesn’t echo up.

The rooms themselves are large, but decorated like a typical hotel – paisley bedspreads and standard wood furniture. Each room comes with a small coffeemaker and several single-serve instant-coffee packets. The bathrooms are quite large, and some offer full bathtubs.

Amenities outside of the rooms are plentiful at the Four Points: fitness area, room service, a restaurant on-site (Cities Grill), and free parking are just a few. The parking is quite plentiful. In the two times my mother has stayed here, at least half of the lot has been open.

Snuffy's is a true malt shop! The decor is very Americana, with lots of dark wood and red tables. You feel at home when you walk into Snuffy's.

They have many different options of malt flavors - over 25 single flavors, but you can do a double-flavor malt for slightly more. The malts are thick, and you get a lot for your money. A full malt is a full glass as well as half the stainless steel container they make the malt in. The fare is typical American: burgers, fries, onions rings, etc.

Snuffy's is reasonably priced. I usually spend about $12 on a burger, fries, and malt with tip. The waitstaff isn't the most attentive, but the owner seems to hire mostly local high school and college students, which is great. A very casual atmosphere, a nice jukebox, and good for kids.

The Red Dragon is just on the cusp of uptown. Often overshadowed by Rudolph's and the Leaning Tower of Pizza, this Chinese restaurant is good traditional fare. You can get sweet-and-sour chicken, beef, peapods, and most other dishes you would expect to find at a Chinese establishment.

If you're just getting a meal, I would recommend ordering take-out, as the portions are much larger than eating there. For drinks and atmosphere, though, definitely dine in! The red walls and dim lighting make you feel like you should be sorting out a secret deal. I have been here on many occasions and only had to wait for seating once.

The food will compare well with other local Chinese places, such as South China and Village Wok, but the drinks are outstanding. They are reasonably priced for how much you get and will knock you over. Try one of the specialties, such as the Fog Cutter, and you will be pleasantly surprised.

Whatever you do, don't go to John’s Pizza for the atmosphere - go for the pizza! The restaurant is tiny and rather barren, which makes John’s much more popular for takeout and delivery.

John’s offers much more than the traditional pizza joint. You can get just about any topping you can imagine. They have the standards, of course: pepperoni, sausage, and many kinds of cheese. But you can also get pepper rings, jalapenos, several kinds of bacon and ham, chicken, anchovies, and anything else your little heart desires.

On top of basic pizzas, John's also does many specialty pizzas, from barbeque chicken to a veggie garden. They also do hoagies, which are huge, and if you dine in, your drink is free with a hoagie. I would highly recommend getting one of the appetizers, too, but only if you're not worried about garlic breath!

John's is a few dollars more than your typical pizza joint. For example, a large pizza with two toppings runs about $16. It's well worth it, though, as a large is filled with toppings and fills you up quickly. I always have leftovers!

In the three or four times I have been to Old Spaghetti Factory, I have yet to encounter a good server. The wait staff at this location is simply horrendous! They forget to fill drinks, don't bring out bread, take oodles of time bringing checks, and seem to generally be poorly trained.

Old Spaghetti Factory specializes in family-style dining, with entrées that are both adult and kid-friendly. The entrées are very inexpensive - not one is over $12, and they average $7 to $8. Some of the entrées come with a beverage and dessert included in the price as well.

The meals themselves are pretty average. The sauces are okay, but they have very few spices added to them. One of the perks is that any spaghetti entrée comes with very thick spaghetti - yum! It seems like many of the entrées could be made at home with little effort. The standout items are easily the drinks - OSF mixes liquor and dessert well!

If you're looking for a restaurant for picky eaters, go to Old Spaghetti Factory. But if you're looking for good traditional Italian, head to Northeast for Totino's or to the other side of downtown for Buca. Olive Garden is more traditional than OSF.

Caffrey’s is the new kid on the Lyn-Lake scene. They are just about a year old, and they’re in a perfect spot for those cruising uptown. If you’re hungry after a day of shopping and walking around the lakes, Caffrey’s is the place for you!

Caffrey’s does mostly subs, and they do them right. A friend who works down the street recommended the "Blue Cow" to me, and it’s the best hot sub I’ve ever had. Thick chunks of roast beef, blue cheese, bacon, onions, lettuce, mayo, and tomato – don’t kiss anyone with "Blue Cow" breath!

You can make a meal out of your sandwich, and add a pop and your choice of sides: chip, potato salad, fruit salad, or coleslaw. Caffrey’s also has a couple of vegetarian options. Spend an extra couple of dollars and get your fill here instead of Milio’s. Unlike Milio's, there's room to sit and chat.

A well-hidden taco joint, Little T’s is situated just off of "Eat Street". Since it is not on the main drag, it is often overlooked but offers a great view of alternative culture in Minneapolis. You are also allowed to color on the tablecloths! How often can adults do that?

Little Tijuana’s is open until 3am to feed your super-late burrito craving. Because they are open so late, they attract a number of characters, including many students from the nearby Minneapolis College of Art and Design. Many customers have countless piercings and tattoos. The servers are also tattoed to the max, some with purple hair and dreadlocks to boot. The servers know their stuff, though, and all seem to have the menu memorized.

The food here is greasy and cheap, which is perfect sometimes. The menu is huge, and in addition to traditional Mexican goodies, you can also get hamburgers and mozzarella sticks. I love the combo platters – for around $8, you can get three or four huge items.

The Herkimer is unlike any other bar/pub in uptown Minneapolis. They are the only pub in the area that brews their own beer, and while I have not had the fortune to try it, I hear it's fantastic. You can view parts of the brewing process from a double-sided window. You get a view from inside the bar, as well as outside on the sidewalk.

The bar has a very simple decor, much of it wood-paneled. On a nice day, you can sit outside on the sidewalk and watch the rest of the world. If you do sit outside, though, be warned that buses pass by frequently, which interrupts conversation.

The Herkimer has great food for both the picky eater and the more adventurous. Their main specialty is burgers, and they do them right. They also have salads, chicken, and pasta, all typical fare for a pub.

The fantastic dishes here are for those willing to try a bit more. Their big burger is called the Herkiburger and lives up to mouth-watering standards. They take a plain burger and dress it up with mozzarella, bacon, barbeque sauce, and fried onions. The other great special at the Herkimer are the sweet potato fries. You can order them as an appetizer or add them to your meal for $1, and they're worth it! The taste of something sweet and fried at the same time is unusually good.

The meal prices are reasonable - they range from $7 to $12. The Herkimer website has information about the menu and beers on tap.

Como Zoo is a great free attraction! For a free zoo, they really outdo themselves, with giraffes, tons of gorillas, polar bears, and a myriad of large cats. The zoo isn't too large, and the layout is quite sensible, so it is good for small children and big kids. Parking is free as well, so that just adds to the benefits.

If you're done with the zoo and conservatory, take a walk around the 1.5-mile lake, barbeque by the fire pits, take 9 or 18 holes at the golf course, or take a dip in the pool. In winter, they turn the golf area into a ski hill/sledding area where they offer lessons.

The Gateway Trail begins just north of the state capitol in Saint Paul, and ends just north of Stillwater. It is 18 miles of a nearly flat, wide multiple-use trail. You will find people jogging, rollerblading, and biking, and, when the trail splits off into two, horseback riding. The trail is mostly isolated from cars, but it does cross over about 10 roads.

The Gateway Trail is fairly heavily shaded, which is a blessing in the hot summer months. Everyone who uses the trail is very courteous, signalling when they are passing and staying to the right. The only downfall to the trail is that there aren't very many restrooms.

One of the biggest perks of the trail is that it crosses over another trail the leads directly to Phalen Park. Phalen isn't very far from the Gateway, and it has many amenities, including a beach.

For more info and pictures, check out: Gateway Trail

The Saint Paul Farmer's Market has gotten much better since they did their renovation. There is a sectioned roof overhead, making it easier to attend in rain - I went about two weeks ago in the pouring rain and was comfortable.

Saint Paul's market is completely different from Minneapolis, which is a nice change of pace. The downtown Minneapolis market runs alongs several blocks of Nicollet Avenue, whereas Saint Paul is confined to a large square block. Parking is plentiful, and there is a trolley from several free lots.

There are multitudes of different products here, all of them fresh. You can find fresh produce, flats of plants, fresh meat, eggs, and bakery. I would highly recommend Golden Fig's products - if you need a spice to liven up dinner, she's got it! I bought a grilling rub from her a couple of months ago and can't get enough of it. The Golden Fig table and many others have many recipe ideas for their products.

Every weekend, the market features a different band and a different gardening expert. It's worth a trip every couple of weeks!

I dare say that there is nowhere in the Twin Cities, and perhaps all of Minnesota, like Psycho Suzi's. Minnesota is almost the last place on Earth I would expect to find a tiki bar. But here it is, in all its glory.

The walls are bamboo-covered, the carpet is patterned like wood, and there are tiki gods galore. There is a waterfall on the patio, open during pleasant weather. Your drink will come in a specialty glass, everything from a one-eyed pirate to a pineapple - for $4, you can take the glass home. I already have two at home!

The drinks are the reason everyone comes here. Everything from the One-Eyed Willy to the Suffering Bastard are found on the menu. They can be a bit pricey, but I've found that they're worth it. Everything is super-sweet, though, so watch out! Often, you've drunk a lot and don't even realize it.

The basics: Psycho Suzi's has a great jukebox - perhaps the best in the area. You can find everything from Bowie to the Smiths to Franz Ferdinand on it. My friends and Ihave been caught singing along more than once! They also have plenty of free parking. The waitstaff is nice, without being pushy. Check out Psycho Suzi's for more info.

There's no getting around it--the Mall of America is HUGE! There are plans to make it even bigger, too, nearly doubling the size.

If you have never been to the Mall of America before, prepare to be overwhelmed. It is four stories of shopping (over half a mile on each level), an amusement park, aquarium, 16-screen movie theater, and bowling alley.

The stores here are generally ones you will find at most suburban malls. There is a Spencer's Gifts, a Gap and Old Navy, Suncoast, and Victoria's Secret. But there are some Minnesota-only stores like Games by James and Local Charm that make the trip worth it to shop.

Camp Snoopy is impressive, considering it is all indoors. The log flume is definitely one of the best I've seen, and the new Timberland Twister is a neat coaster. You can find more shopping inside Camp Snoopy. Inside you will find the Snoopy-themed merchandise stores and Dippin' Dots, among other amusement park food.

The fourth floor of the mall is easily the quietest, and the place to go for entertainment. The very top floor houses the AMC theater, Jillian's arcade and bowling, another arcade, and Hooters. Jillian's is overpriced, but what did you expect?

The Mall of America is great for a day trip, but just remember that Minneapolis has so much more to offer!

Lava Links is cheesy, that cannot be denied, but when you’re facing the winter doldrums, it’s a pleasant alternative from the Mall of America. Situated across from Rosedale Mall in Roseville, this mini-golf/arcade locale is a quick trip from either Minneapolis or Saint Paul. Lava Links is on the bottom floor of a small strip mall, so parents can drop little ones off and catch a movie or head to Best Buy or Kohl’s for some shopping.

The indoor mini-golf course is 18 holes, but it’s fairly small. As you move from the front nine to the back nine, you go from a fluorescent-lit space to a black-lit room filled with…. well, mini-golf and a dinosaur head. When you’ve finished your mini-golf, you can take a break in the arcade or play some lazer-tag. The arcade is decent and has air hockey in additional to traditional games. They run on tokens, and some of them offer tickets toward kiddie prizes.

Lava Links also offers an array of greasy and sugary food. You can treat yourself to a hot dog, miniature pizza, onion rings, or a variety of candy. Children will be in sugar-induced heaven!

The Lava Links website has helpful information, including hours.

Muddy Paws is amazing! They are the premiere cheesecake shop in Minneapolis, and for a good reason. They do over 170 flavors of cheesecake… and counting.

The Saint Paul shop is a tiny storefront near Hamline University. They take orders for whole cheesecakes and also make several kinds that they sell, both whole and individual slices. The Saint Paul Muddy Paws also had some other delicacies – I bought a fabulous jar of grape jelly from a local company and a couple of cookies.

Muddy Paws makes incredible cheesecake. When I ordered, I asked for a chocolate fudge/cherry combination, and they had no problem accommodating my request without an extra charge. They do standards, like plain, chocolate, and grasshopper, but they also do many out-there flavors. Try the key lime or oatmeal-cinnamon – you’ll be pleasantly surprised! Their prices are reasonable, too. You’ll spend about $25 to $35 for a big cheesecake.

Check out the Muddy Paws website for a list of all their flavors and locations.

Phalen Beach is pretty and well take care of. It is part of Phalen Park, a large multi-use facility on St. Paul's East Side.

The beach is fairly large, and the swimming area is large enough for busy weekends. There are lifeguards on duty in-season, which runs from the first weekend in JUne through Labor Day. Phalen also offers paddleboat, canoe, kayak, and sailboat rentals. More people go for relaxing at the beach than anything else.p>

If you're looking for a slightly more relaxed atmosphere, visit Phalen during the week, or on weekends early in the season. Phalen is far less crowded than many of the other urban beaches, which is a plus.

Phalen Beach does have restrooms with chagning areas and showers, as well as a small food counter. Both of these amenities are only open in season.

In tiny Hopkins, 10 minutes southwest of Minneapolis, lies a pinball fanatic's dream. That dream is SS Billiards.

From the outside, SS Billiards looks just like another dingy pool hall in a strip mall. The second you walk in, though, you know it's drastically different. SS is clean, well-lit, and staffed by knowledgeable people. There is a regular crowd that hangs out here, ranging in ages from mid-teens to 40-somethings.

SS Billiards does have pool, and it is reasonably-priced - about $6 for an hour of play. The shining star at this little-known place, however, is the pinball. The owner keeps 15-20 machines out all the time. When I was there recently, SS had these machines:

Lord of the Rings

Addams Family

Elvis

Medieval Madness

Dracula

No Good Gofers

Monster Bash

Safecracker

Corvette

Pinball Magic

and a few others.

The machines are all in great working condition, too, which is a rarity! All of the lighting and sound is functional, and some of them have $1 slots, so ou don't have to constantly feed it quarters.

SS Billiards has a pinball league that meets every Saturday night, and tournaments every few months. They are open noon to midnight Monday-Saturday and 2 to 10 pm on Sundays. The SS Billiards website has pictures and event information, but isn't regularly updated.

The Minnesota Zoo is easily the largest zoo in… well, in Minnesota. Consisting of five themed areas, the zoo is about 20 minutes south of Minneapolis.

General Info: The zoo is open 363 days a year, closing only on Christmas and Thanksgiving. Summer hours are 9am to 6pm, and off-season hours are 9am to 4pm. Parking is $5/car. The Minnesota Zoo has an attached IMAX theater, and tickets are discounted with zoo admission.

The zoo has a monorail and several spots to eat. The food court offers many options, and the Zoo Café has coffee and snacks. There is a well-stocked gift shop, with items ranging from T-shirts to stuffed animals to glassware.

The Exhibits: The zoo is sectioned off into five areas: the Northern Trail, the Family Farm, the Tropics Trail, Discovery Bay, and the Minnesota Trail. They are along a nice semicircular walking path, so there is no need to double back – unless you want to see the animals again!

Northern Trail - This area highlights animals native to cold, but not Minnesota. Here you’ll find tigers, caribou, and moose. Surprisingly, the moose are rather friendly, and you can often find them grazing near the fence.

Family Farm - This part of the zoo is probably the coolest for kids. The Minnesota Zoo staff has created a typical farm, complete with a big red barn and grain elevator. This is where you can get close to many farm animals, sheep, goats, and cows included. Parents don’t have to worry, though, as there are hand-washing stations around.

Tropics Trail - This is where the fun animals begin. The Tropics Trail hosts the unusual animals, like lemurs, kangaroos, and different monkey species. This area is all indoors, making it a hotspot in winter. The space itself is cool, a winding stone trail through trees and rocks.

Discovery Bay - Here is where you will find the sea life at the zoo. There are dolphins, sharks, stingrays, and many other fish inside. The zoo has created an open shark tank that allows you to reach in and touch them – very cool for kids! Discovery Bay is where the dolphin show is hosted, and it runs at 10am, 12pm, and 2pm every day.

Minnesota Trail - This is the most boring exhibit of the five, at least for local visitors. Native animals found at the zoo include wolverines, otters, rabbits, and flying squirrels. The nice part of the Minnesota Trail is that the animals are active regardless of the weather.

After you are finished with all of the exhibits, stop back in the visitor center. There is a small interactive section for children inside. Here they can hold rabbits and snakes and learn many interesting animal facts. The zoo also hosts special events in the visitor center throughout the year. Visit the Minnesota Zoo website for events and comprehensive information.

Elsie’s pulls triple-duty as a bowling alley/bar/restaurant, and pulls it off with class and fun. Located in a northeast Minneapolis neighborhood, it is located close to both downtown and the University of Minnesota area.

I recently went to Elsie’s on a Saturday evening for bowling and some karaoke. The bowling alley itself was completely dead – the only justification I can think of is the recent smoke-free ordinances for bars and restaurants. When renting shoes, I didn’t feel like I was putting my foot into 50-year-old clodhoppers, but fresh bowling kicks. The alley is fairly well-lit and roomy, and I think they have 16 lanes in all.

The best thing about the bowling alley that separates it from all others is the wait staff. Our bar server was friendly and helpful – he knew exactly what the bar carried, and we had our drinks within 5 minutes! He also remembered to come back and refresh our drinks and was not at all fazed when we moved to the bar.

After moving to the bar, we were less impressed with the digs, but still had fun. Elsie’s serves food until 10:30pm Monday through Wednesday, and midnight Thursday through Saturday. The bar area is small but doesn’t give off a very cozy atmosphere. There are only pub tables to sit at, no shorter tables or booths. The bar wait staff was equally friendly and quick, even though the bar was crowded.

Elsie’s prices were reasonable for both bowling and drinks. They carry a wide selection of beers and ciders on top of a full bar. Visit Elsie's website for menus and other information.

In Minneapolis, there seems to be a wealth of craft-related stores. There are art-supply stores, yarn shops, "scrapbooking" stores, and bead shops (of course). Bobby Bead has one of the largest selections in the area, and they really know what they're doing.

When you first walk into this Uptown shop, you may be overwhelmed! Bobby Bead has thousands of choices, from simple seed beads to intricate Native-American beads. They have tons of glass, wood, ceramic, and stone beads, as well as jewels and other accessories to complement your selection. You can spend anywhere from a nickel to $40 or $50 on a single bead. Bobby Bead also has everything you need to make jewelry or embroidery, including yarn, strings, clasps, needles, looms, and storage containers.

If you do feel a little lost, just ask one of the staff members for some help. They are super-knowledgeable and very friendly. All of the staff members do beadwork themselves, so they know what to recommend.

Bobby Bead is open seven days a week. They also offer a variety of classes, from beginner to expert ones. You can shop online at the Bobby Bead website.

Just a few miles from downtown Minneapolis lies one of the most breathtaking sights in all of Minnesota. Who knew that a park as large and neat as Minnehaha Falls could hide within a large city?

Minnehaha Falls Park centers around its namesake, the waterfall. The falls are actually near the northwest corner of the park, and there is much more to see. Most people stop wandering after they come upon the falls, and it is not difficult to see why. This natural wonder is enclosed in a large, semicircular basin, and I could spend an hour mesmerized by the movement. In winter, Minnehaha Falls freeze into an equally beautiful sight. On any given days, you can see adventurous kids and teens climbing underneath the falls.

If you take a stroll around the rest of the park, you will find many more gorgeous sights. The falls lead into a small stream, which runs into the bicycling path. The cycling path connects with the Mississippi River trail and the Fort Snelling trail. There are several neat statutes around, too, and one of them commemorates the Indians Hiawatha and Minnehaha (from the "Song of Hiawatha" poem by Longfellow).

Besides the natural beauty of the Minnehaha Park, there is also a picnic area. In summer, food and gifts are sold near the falls and picnic area. There is also a playground and metered parking – and make sure to pay, because the park police will give tickets! Minnehaha Park is both a great family trip and a romantic place, too.

Cooks of Crocus Hill is every wannabe chefs dream come true. At Cooks, you can do everything from buy Le Crueset bakeware, to take classes with famous local chefs, and buy local cropshares of amazing organic vegetables - all at the same time!

This two-story shop in the luxe Grand area houses both a giant retail store and a classroom. Cooks hosts classes several times a week, everything from "boiling water" to "Italian summer".

The retail shop is easily the best part of Cooks. They carry everything you can ever imgaine for your kitchen. Need that torch for creme brulee? They have it. French fry maker? No problem. Obscure cookbook? Yes, they do, and if they don't, they can get it.

Cooks is the place to go if you want to feel like a world-class chef in your own kitchen. Visit the Cooks of Crocus Hill website for a small sampling of kitchen goodness.

There is no more stereotypical college bar near the University of Minnesota than Stub and Herb's. With mascots of Big Ten schools painted on the outside and college memorabilia everywhere on the walls, who can compete?

Early in the weeks, this bar is nearly dead. But come Thursday, Friday, Saturday, or a sporting event, and you be hard-pressed to find a spot to stand, much less sit. Nearly everyone here is a college student, with the only exceptions being professors and recent grads.

The drinks here are typical college fare, heavy on the liquor and not very tasty. Stub's does have a ton of shots, though. They also have a good happy hour, which changes every night.

The food here isn't bad. It's bar fare, appetizers and burgers, but not too greasy or expensive.

There is also a pool table in the basement, near the restrooms. Women may want to avoid using the restroom if they can.

If you're an indie bike nerd, One on One is the spot for you. Even if you're not, you may still appreciate the awesome bikes. This downtown shop sells and repairs them, but also houses a coffee shop and art gallery!

One on One is sort of a smorgasbord of bike history. They have an old Bianchi scooter from the 1940s, waters bottles from all over the country, and tons of refurbished bikes in the basement.

That doesn't even include the parts. Looking for that 1970s Campagnolo Super Recors bottom bracket? Just head to One on One, because if they don't have it, you won't find it in the Twin Cities.

The art gallery here is nothing to sneeze at. Rotating shows always mean an interesting change is in store. About a year and a half ago, they did a fantastic opening of Caroline Yang's photos from the Tour de France.

All in all, One on One is worth the small jaunt downtown. Even if it's just to chat up the staff or local messengers, you'll find it interesting. Go to One on One's website for their blog and hours.

On a strip of Rice Street where almost nothing else worthwhile exists, sits the Chalet. Truly a dive bar, the Chalet is shaped like its namesake, but looks nothing like a real chalet on the inside.

The Chalet is what I would picture when someone says "up north" bar. Wood-paneled walls, pull tabs, and pitchers of Labatt are just a few of the highlights. There are also darts and a pinball game called Fish Tales.

There is an odd dual-purposeness to the Chalet. This is primarily a sports bar, with Vikings signs adorning every wall and a giant screen TV, but the Chalet also does karaoke - every night of the week. This is truly the haunt for both amazingly good and bad karaoke singers. On any given night, you will find a wide variety of songs, from David Bowie to Garth Brooks to '80s synth pop.

Drinks here are mediocre, but at least they are also cheap. Beer is mostly the name of the game, and they do have a wide selection of domestics. During happy hours, a pitcher of beer won’t run more than $6. You can also get a decent selection of bar favorites, like gin and tonics and rum and Cokes. A good rule of thumb at the Chalet: if the drink has the name of the ingredients in it, the bartender knows how to make it! Ask for a mojito or cosmopolitan, though, and you’ll get a blank stare.

The Chalet is a good bar if you’re staying in the Maplewood/Little Canada area, or if you just want a cheap drink. It’s also good for karaoke. If you’re looking for any more in a bar, head somewhere else!

Do not go to Lake Calhoun on weekends! Do not go to Lake Calhoun on weekends! Do not go to Lake Calhoun on weekends!

If you go to any of the three beaches on Lake Calhoun on a Saturday or Sunday, you will find the entire population of Minneapolis, and then some, packed into a very small area. It is nearly impossible to spread out your towel, much less walk to the lake from the beach.

That being said, Lake Calhoun is gorgeous. It has a stunning view of downtown Minneapolis, and there are always plenty of sailboats to gaze at. You'll find a plethora of hard bodies as well, doing their daily exercises.

The beaches themselves are quite nice. The sand is smooth, and there is a large area for lounging. Lifeguards are on duty from noon to 8pm every day of the season. If you're not in the mood for lounging or swimming, there is also a walking and biking path that goes around the entire lake and feeds under Lake Street to Lake Harriet as well.

If you don't want to pay for parking, try to get a spot on the street. Again, this is impossible on weekends, but no problem during the week.

As my boyfriend and I walked into Peter's Billiards for the first time, his jaw dropped. I feared he would stop breathing, so I prepped myself with my Girl Scout CPR knowledge. Fortunately, he didn't hyperventilate, so all was well, but I could tell why he reacted the way he did.

Peter's Billiards is a grown-up boys’ heaven. It's two stories of game room stuff, from pool tables to bars to pinball machines and popcorn machines. They specialize in pool tables, though, and there are hundreds of choices. If you've ever dreamed of owning a cherry-wood table with bright orange cloth, this is the place to go. They do have a range of table prices, so you don't have to spend a fortune to outfit your dream entertaining space.

Every room we walked into, my boyfriend gasped. Here, the jukeboxes, there, the stand-up arcade games. This shop really is tailored to high-end game room items.

Beyond the normal game room supplies, this shop on the edge of Minneapolis also carries some home decor items. They have a massive selection of artwork, many designed specifically for game rooms, but a lot that are also quite classic. Peter's also carries kitchen stools and glassware.

Peter's Billiards is open 6 days a week (closed Sundays). Visit their website for hours and information.

Groth Music is housed in an assuming strip mall-style building about 5 minutes from the Mall of America. Based on its exterior mediocrity, I would expect the same inside. But such is not the case, as Groth is teeming with musical goodness!

Need karaoke discs? Head to Groth. How about an ocarina or banjo? Groth is the place to go. They have everything you could possibly imagine – this is not your typical music store.

Of course, Groth does carry the standard musical supplies, like saxophones, reeds, keyboards, drumsticks, and guitars, but they have so much more as well. Kids will be in heaven, since many noise-makers are readily available, and the staff doesn’t mind if you try before you buy. The staff is also very helpful in guiding you to the right item.

I cannot stress enough how huge the selection is here. If Groth doesn’t have an item, you probably won’t locate it in the Twin Cities. And if they don’t have your Sunfly karaoke disc, or African drum, they can order it for you. They also have a huge variety of musical gifts (T-shirts, cards, small toys, etc.). Visit the Groth Music website to shop online or get store hours.

Nye’s may very well be the biggest contradiction in Minneapolis. It feels like an old-timer’s bar, with grand piano-accompanied karaoke, polka, wood paneling, valet parking, and giant booths for seating, but it attracts some of the youngest, hippest crowds in town. As my boyfriend says, "It looks like a Mafia hangout!"

No, that's not Jimmy Hoffa hiding in the back corner. Even though you won't spot any hit men, the bar's location makes it the perfect night out. It is close enough to everything to be very convenient, and if you’re bar-hopping, it is nearby several other hot joints. Nye’s is also one of the easiest bars to find, even if you’re not from the area – just head over the giant suspension bridge!

Nye’s can probably be best described as a supper club-style bar. The bar is not all that large, but it is quite easy to get waited on at the tables. Every table has a tablecloth and candles, and you feel like you should be smoking a cigar in here. Don’t try, though, as Minneapolis bars are nonsmoking! The martinis here are incredible – most every drink is super-sized and loaded with top-shelf vodka or gin.

There is a small lunch and dinner menu at Nye’s, too. They carry traditional American fare, like steaks and lobster, as well as Polish dishes, like sauerkraut and pierogis.

Parking here is easier to find than other local establishments. If you cannot easily find it on the street, accept their valet service. It’s only $2, and they are fast and courteous. Visit the Nye's website for a menu and reviews.

There are a wealth of eateries and bars in the area known as Seven Corners, near downtown Minneapolis. Seven Corners is a very small area that has one of the most bizarre intersections in the city, hence the name. Sgt. Preston’s is included in this fray, but I wouldn’t advise going here unless you enjoy a collegiate frat-style atmosphere. There are much better campus bars nearby.

If you’re here on a Friday or Saturday night, assume that you will be packed in like sardines, much like any other college bar. The crowd is guys in t-shirts, girls in tube tops, and jeans all around. There isn’t any dancing, because there isn’t any room! Try and sit out on the patio in summer – it’s much less crowded, and offers great people-watching.

Most people seem to go to Sgt. Preston’s for beer, but they do have a full bar. Their weekend specialty is the fishbowl, which is a 100-oz. bowl filled with a mixed drink. Most of the drinks are fruity and strong, and they require that you have at least two people to share it with. That’s a good thing – when I ordered one and got the bill, I nearly had a heart attack! Their fishbowls run $22, meaning you’re better off ordering single drinks from the bar.

Don’t even attempt to use the bathrooms here, either. The ladies room has two stalls, and there seemed to be about 20 people trying to cram into the bathroom. I’ve heard the mens is slightly better, though.

There are two upsides to Sgt. Preston’s. The food is good, and they have a couple of fully functional pool tables. Other than that, don’t bother.

How can you make a dive bar even more of a dive? Turn it into a college dive bar! Sportsman’s Pub is the crappiest bar I’ve visited in the Twin Cities, but it still has a bit of charm., partially because they can poke fun at themselves.

Sportsman’s is located just north of the University of Minnesota campus, in the Como neighborhood. On any given night that you drive by, you’ll see lit neon signs backlighting smokers outside the building. Since bars are nonsmoking in Minneapolis, everyone heads outside.

Wood-paneled walls and beer signs are the extent of the décor at Sportsman’s. A pool table does adorn the back room, though, and they have karaoke a few nights a week.

Most everyone at Sportsman’s drinks beer. Nightly special generally focus on low-end beers, like PBR and Miller – sometimes it only costs a quarter! They do have a full bar, but the bartenders are mostly inexperienced kids from the University, so drinks don’t taste the best.

Sportsman’s does have some decent, cheap food. Burgers can be had for $1 at times, or you can get a dinner for two special that includes a pitcher of beer for less than $20. Last time I was there, they also had a popcorn machine, although you may want to avoid it. The staff doesn’t really keep tabs on who puts what in the machine.

Bibelot is a women’s shop – there’s no doubt about that! Any man who enters this store is either dragged there with his significant other or looking for directions to a local bar. It may not be obvious from the blue awnings outside, but the goods contained in this large Northeast staple are truly oriented toward the female audience.

It’s also good to note that you shouldn’t enter Bibelot if you don’t have money to spend on unnecessary items. They carry candles, kitchen utensils, jewelry, and unique knickknacks, among other goodies. If you were ever looking for that wine bottle bolder in the shape of the Mississippi River or intricate shoe vase, this is the place to go. Bibelot carries items from both local artisans and national companies.

I could list small items Bibelot carries for hours (but I won’t). Needless to say, the shop is shelves and shelves of stuff, and you’ll find that many items are so crammed in that some things are hard to get to. But Bibelot is brightly lit and always smells great. The staff is mostly female, and they are very willing to help you find the treasured stuff you’ve been searching for your whole life - even if you didn’t realize it before you walked in.

Visit the Bibelot website for hours and an idea of items they stock.

TeaSource is like a video store... for tea. You and your partner don’t need to agree on what you’ll enjoy, because there are a thousand choices!

This hip shop just off of Grand Avenue is not only great for purchasing tea, but incredibly informative, too. I walked in and immediately was asked if I had even been there before, and what kind of tea I enjoyed. The staff has a bunch of information sheets and different types of tea (green, black, oolong, etc.); plus, each individual that works there is also a fountain of tea-spurting knowledge.

TeaSource literally does have a thousand teas. If that overwhelms you a bit, try one of their samples. If you’re still confused, take a staff member’s suggestion. They found me a perfect black-green blended tea, with hints of cherry and peach in it, and it’s delicious! Every tea here is looseleaf, and sold in 2-ounce and 4-ounce bags. Just make sure you grab a tea infuser or bags if you don’t already have them.

The shop itself is open and airy, with very few decorations on the walls. The purchase area is set up like a bar, and there is a small seating area (they also sell cups of tea). Visit the TeaSource website to shop online and get directions.

In recent times, bowling has seen its ups and downs. With the plethora of activities one can choose from to entertain themselves, bowling seems to have fallen by the wayside. You'd think only die-hards and fans of Let's Bowl! would still be shelling out cash to throw down the lanes. But Flaherty's Bowl proves that wrong.

To be sure, there are the league junkies that hang out here. If you head to Flaherty's on a weekend night, though, you will find it crawling with teenagers - a little too much so. Waits can be an hour or longer for a lane. Your best bet is to check this suburban hangout on a weeknight.

Flaherty's maintains their lanes meticulously, so bowling itself is fun. If you need a house ball, there are tons, and enough shoes for even the busiest of evenings. The only major problem with this alley is the price. Bowling runs $4 a game most nights, which is at least $1 more than comparable lanes.

Bowling isn't the only pricey item here, either. Shoe rental is expensive, as are appetizers and drinks. A small basket of cheese curds will set you back almost $7 - more than the state fair! The pub carries a decent selection of beers and won't make you choke on your drink at the price.

Flaherty's has an arcade as well, although it's not as well kept as the bowling alley. There is pinball, about 10 or 12 video games, and a Dance Dance Revolution machine. Visit the Flaherty's website for league information and other goodies.

Hop on a bus and prepare to be transported back to the 1920s  when St. Paul wasn't so saintly. The Gangster Tour takes you on a 2-hour journey through bank robberies, shootouts, and kidnappings throughout the city.

Your tour guide is one of several infamous gangsters, from John Dillinger to Babyface Nelson. The guide is dressed the part, in a pin-striped suit with a (disabled) tommy gun.

There are several interesting stops around town, and the tour is very interactive. There is only one stop where you actually get off the bus, though. That stop is Swede Hollow Park, the site where the owner of Hamm's Brewery was kidnapped.

Our tour guide, John Dillinger himself, made things very interesting and interactive. He asked questions and gave away prizes at the end of the tour. The history of the gangsters is in itself fascinating, so it's not too hard to get involved and taken away by this tour. The only downside is that there is only one stop, so you may get a bit restless sitting for 2 hours.

The tour is $20 per person, and the company that runs it offers several other similar adventures, such as the "Cave Tour" and "Twin Town Tacky Tour." Visit the Wabasha Street Caves website for more details.

Feeling the need to belt out bad ‘80s ballads? You can find karaoke any night of the week, in any bar. Here are recommendations of a few I have hit.

The Chalet Lounge: 1820 Rice St., Saint Paul

651/488-0872

The Chalet does karaoke every night of the week. Unfortunately, it's hit or miss. The songbook is decently-sized, and they seem to update a couple of times a year with new songs. But the crowd varies on a weekly basis. Saturdays are usually the busiest, but the crowd may be rowdy. Sundays are usually pretty dead, but if there's a holiday or a big sporting event, it can be packed.

The quality of singers seems to be better than your average bar. Many of the "regulars" have songs they do on a weekly or nightly basis. The hosts are different every night, but they are always entertaining.

Sportsman's Pub: 2124 Como Ave. SE, Minneapolis

612/379-8407

Sportsman's does karaoke on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. This is the place to go if you are bad and want to be surrounded by equally bad singers. This is near the University of Minnesota campus, so it's a popular college joint. That's bad because of the super-drunk students, but good because the drinks are very cheap.

The hosts aren't great, and they seem to turnover quickly. The songbooks is fair, though, and it's the place to go if you've always wanted to try karaoke but are too shy.

Elsie's Bowling Center: 729 NE Marshall, Minneapolis

612/378-9701

Elsie's has karaoke in the bar on Saturday nights. The bar is completely separated from the bowling area, but the karaoke set-up is weird. The stage is located in a back corner, as far away from the door as possible.

The songbook is pretty small - it doesn't seem like they update more than once a year. I have only been here for karaoke once, so I'm not sure how the hosts generally are, but the one we had seemed average. The crowd seems far less responsive to singers than anywhere else.

Turf Club: 1601 University Ave., Saint Paul

651/647-0486

The Turf Club does karaoke the last Sunday of every month in the basement, or "Clown Lounge." Be warned: since it's only held once a month, it's packed by 9pm!

The hosts are characters, but they seem to play favorites with their friends. The Clown Lounge has great decor but gets smoky quickly. The one advantage to Turf Club karaoke is that the songbook is huge.

Park Tavern: 5221 Viking Dr., Edina

952/844-0335

The Edina/Bloomington Park Tavern is not to be confused with the St. Louis Park Tavern, which can easily happen. The karaoke on Saturday nights is pretty average. The songbook is medium-sized, the hosts are pretty average, and the singers vary. Some of the singers are great, and some are horrible.

The stage is big and the sound system is good, but that doesn’t always help with the crowd. If it's a game day, the crowds will not pay a lick of attention to karaoke.

Lake Street is a cultural wonderland yet to be seen anywhere else in the Twin Cities. Beginning on the Minneapolis side of the Mississippi River, Lake Street stretches for more than 5 miles. Along it are some of the most interesting experiences in the area.

A mile or so into Lake Street, you cross Minnehaha Avenue. Here you will find a number of chain stores, satisfying just about all of your needs. There is Target, Rainbow Foods, and Cub Foods - all Minnesota staples. You also can find Blockbuster Video, Payless Shoes, and McDonald's along this stretch.

Heading west a bit, you will pass under the new light-rail tracks. The light rail was finished in June 2004 and runs from downtown Minneapolis to the airport and the Mall of America. It's a great option for tourists! The nearest Lake Street stop is 28th, just 2 blocks north. You can visit the Metro Transit website for schedules.

As you keep heading west, there is a long stretch of Lake Street that highlights local culture. This is where the real excitement begins! There is Ingrebretsen's (1601 E. Lake St.), a store full of Scandinavian delights. Near Christmastime, there are lines around the block for lutefisk and other traditional foods. In the Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theatre (1500 E. Lake St.) is here as well. Their shows highlight events that are important in Minneapolis, both past and present.

A little farther down, you will find a wealth of Mexican groceries and eateries. There is Carne Asada (809 E. Lake St.), a relatively new joint. There is also Me Gusta (405 E. Lake St.), Pineda's Tacos (311 E. Lake St.), and Central Mercado (1515 E. Lake St.).

Lake Street heads under Highway 35W, and for a mile or so, there is not much beyond fast food. As you head closer uptown, though, you will hit many specialty shops. There is Schatzlein's Sadlle Shop (413 W. Lake St.), which specializes in Western wear. A bit farther down the stretch, you come to the Lyn-Lake area, appropriately names because it's near the intersection of Lyndale and Lake Street. Along this corner is Heavenly Soles (615 W. Lake St.) and Penn Cycle (710 W. Lake St.). Heavenly Soles sells fabulous and trendy shoes, while Penn Cycle has just about any kind of bicycle you'll ever need.

Lyn-Lake is also known for fantastic dining. In this small intersection, there is The Herkimer, Caffrey's, Milio's Subs, JP American Bistro, Bryant-Lake Bowl, It's Greek to Me, Dulono's, Fuji-Ya, and La Bodega. There are so many choices, and they're all great at what they do!

About 4 blocks down the road, Lake Street splits into a one-way heading east. To get to the epicenter of Uptown Minneapolis, you have to head down Lagoon Avenue and turn left onto Hennepin. The intersection of Hennepin and Lake Street is arguably the hippest place to be in the Twin Cities. There is shopping, eating, and people-watching to be done, among other things.

Lake and Hennepin will find you among a myriad of small, independent specialty shops. There is Heartbreakers, a trendy clothing store. Inside Calhoun Square, a small shopping center on the corner, you can peruse Kitchen Window, Bay Street Shoes, Status, Little River Creations, and many other stores. There is also an Aveda salon on the corner and a couple of bookstores.

There is also a small concentration of restaurants on this corner, too. You can eat at Chino Latino, Chiang Mai Thai, Famous Dave’s, Figlio, or Sushi Tango. If you need something quick, there’s also a nearby McDonald’s and Jimmy John’s, a sub shop.

This area of Lake Street also boasts a variety of entertainment. Here you will discover ComedySportz, a great improv comedy show. There are two movie theaters, the Uptown and the Lagoon. Each plays independent features, and the Uptown does midnight showings of classics every Saturday. Lake and Hennepin also has several outdoor concerts every year.

Heading farther up Lake Street, you will come to the end of the excitement: the Chain of Lakes. Lake Calhoun and Lake Harriet are beautiful, and both have walking/biking paths around them. Lake Street runs between the two, but you can cross underneath the street without worrying about traffic. This end of Lake Street also boasts some of the most beautiful houses in the state. Relax and take a breather! You’ve come to the end.

Minneapolis and Saint Paul have one of the highest bicycle-commuting populations in the country, which means that there is a wealth of bike shops to choose from. Which ones are the best or have the best selection? I frequent many of the area shops, and here are some highlights of where to go for what you’re looking for.

There are two large locally-owned chains in the greater Twin Cities area: Erik’s Bike Shop and Penn Cycle. Erik’s has more locations, about 10 in all to Penn Cycle’s six. Penn Cycle has been around longer, though, almost 50 years to Erik’s almost 30. These shops have a wide selection of bikes, apparel, and accessories, as well as full-service repair shops. On the other hand, neither shop has many specialty bikes, so if you’re looking for a track bike or cruiser, these are not the places to go. In the off-season, Erik’s carries snowboards and Penn carries fitness equipment.

If you’re not interested in one of the larger shops, there are 10 or 15 smaller shops in the area. The advantage to smaller shops is the staff. Their knowledge is generally better since they all seem to ride regularly, and they can offer more suggestions. The downside is that their prices are sometimes higher, simply because they cannot sell the quantity that the big guys can.

Freewheel Bike: This fairly large shop is located on the West Bank of the University of Minnesota campus, at 1812 S. 6th St. Freewheel acts like one of the bigger stores - they have a wide selection and their prices are reasonable. They have a wide selection of mountain, road, and comfort bikes, and several different brands. The great perk that they offer is renting out their repair shop. For a small fee, you can use all of their tools and a stand to fix your bike yourself.

Behind Bars: This smaller shop was opened just over a year ago and has already earned the distinction of "Best Bike Shop" by the City Pages. Behind Bars is run by Chuck and his wife, Stephanie, and is located at 208 13th Ave. NE, in northeast Minneapolis. They specialize in track bikes, single-speeds, and lower-priced, but high-quality, racing bikes. Chuck does most of the mechanical work by himself and has been in the bicycle business at different shops for over 10 years. Behind Bars is the only bike shop you will find in northeast Minneapolis.

Gateway Cycle: This log cabin-style shop is located just across the street from the Gateway Bike Trail, at 6028 Hwy, 36 Blvd, N in Oakdale. They carry a number of larger brands and everything from road to comfort to BMX. Gateway is smaller than it looks from the outside, but if they don't carry an item or don't have it in stock, just ask! The employees are more than willing to place special orders. Even though the selection here isn't huge, the location is great if your bike acts up along the trail.

Now Bikes and Fitness: Now has two locations, one at 75 N. Snelling Ave. in Saint Paul and one at 3673 Lexington Ave. N. in Arden Hills. Now carries a wide range of... well, everything! They offer riding groups in summer and training classes in winter, so there's always something to do there. A word of warning, though: they don't always have a mechanic on-site, so your bike may not get fixed for a few days.

Flanders Brothers: If you don’t have at least $3000 to spend on a racing bike, don’t patronize Flanders. They carry only high-end equipment and gear, and the staff is ridiculously stuck up. This is a good place to go for custom racing fittings and expensive form-fit jerseys, but other than that, it’s not worth the trip. You can find Flanders Brothers at 2707 Lyndale Ave. in Minneapolis.

Bicycle Chain: This is a small neighborhood shop located at 1712 Lexington Ave. N. in St. Paul, just down the road from Como Park. The staff is friendly and they know what they are doing, but Bicycle Chain is highly overpriced. I bought a chain there for $20 that would cost $15 at any other store. Bicycle Chain also carries Litespeed, which is a brand that very few other shops in the area stock.

Grand Performance: This shop is centered on one brand – Bianchi. Grand Performance carries most of their bicycles, but focuses on the higher-end road bikes. They are not snobs, though. If you bring in your beater Target bikes, they’ll still fix it with a smile. The owner is almost always there, and he has a very friendly greyhound dog that hangs out in the store. Grand Performance is located at 1938 Grand Ave. in St. Paul.

County Cycles: This is a small shop in Roseville, just outside of both Minneapolis and Saint Paul, located at 2700 Lexington Ave. N. County Cycles carries many brands of bicycle equipment that most other places do not, like Louis Garneau, but they also carry more popular brands, like Bianchi. You'll want to go here if you want personal attention and friendly staff the moment you walk in the door, and a shop that's willing to lend you their tools to make your own fix.

So, if you're not interested in buying a bike, where can you go to rent one? Penn Cycle does rentals out of their Bloomington location, but only road and high-end mountain bikes. Your best option is probably Calhoun Cycle. They are located at 3342 Hennepin Ave. S., which is right off of Lake Calhoun. They sell mostly recumbent and folding bikes, but also rent bikes, and there are several bike trails nearby. Enjoy the ride!

One of the hippest spots to shop in the Twin Cities is actually not a mall – it’s a street! Grand Avenue stretches for several miles through the heart of St. Paul. It offers a number of shops, both chain and independent, as well as many good places to grab a bit to eat. Here is just a small sample of the many shops that reside along Grand.

Shopping

Pottery Barn:This chain offers upscale furniture and home décor. You can find everything from dishware to vases to bedding here. Located at 870 Grand.

Pier 1 Imports:Also a furniture and home décor chain. Mid-range prices, and excellent candles! Located at 733 Grand.

Cooks of Crocus Hill:A fun kitchen store that offers classes. Cooks is where to find obscure kitchen items, like cookie cutter in the shape of feet. Located at 877 Grand.

Penzey’s Spices:Just like the name – they only sell spices! This is a small chain based out of Wisconsin. Try their sandwich sprinkle, and you’ll be hooked. Located at 674 Grand.

Bead Monkey:If you’re crafty, you will love Bead Monkey! Beads and accessories are all they carry. Located at 867 Grand.

Red Balloon Bookshop:Kids’ books and toys are what you’ll find here. Customer service is their specialty, and you get free gift-wrapping. Located at 891 Grand.

Garden of Eden:This heavenly-scented shop carries soaps, lotions, and other skin care products. Aromatherapy is what Garden of Eden does best! Located at 867 Grand.

Bibelot Shops: Knick knacks and fun home décor are found here. Everything from magnets to candles to lamps and glasses are just a few items that Bibelot carries. Located at 1082 Grand.

J Crew: This preppy clothing store carries high-quality but pricey merchandise. Chinos and sweaters galore! Located at 870 Grand.

Eating

Dixie’s:Dixie’s offer southern food – fried chicken, grits, and other specialties. If you don’t like southern food, don’t go here, but if you do, Dixie’s does it well! Located at 695 Grand.

Italian Pie Shoppe:This is a trendy pizza parlor. You can get thin crust or deep dish, plus a variety of other entrees. Located at 777 Grand.

D’Amico’s:This is an Italian-style deli, and it’s delicious. Their desserts will have you drowning in sweetness. Located at 975 Grand.

Grand Ole Creamery:Ice Cream, ice cream, ice cream! Holy cow, nobody does it better. Located at 750 Grand.

Wild Onion:If you’re looking for a filling steak, this is the place to go. Also has a full bar. Located at 788 Grand.

Bread and Chocolate:A fine bakery, carries many typical items, but also ice cream in summer. Located at 867 Grand.

Chipotle:If you’ve never had Chipotle, you’ve never had the pleasure of this chain's giant burritos. Ingredients are fresh, homemade, and yummy! Located at 867 Grand.

Billy’s on Grand:This is a hot bar/restaurant hangout for college kids. It’s what you’d expect at a bar – burgers and apps, but in a neat atmosphere, with a great patio in summer! Located at 857 Grand.

Barbary Fig:Mediterranean cooking is done well here, which is rare in Minnesota. Barbary Fig also has vegetarian options. Located at 720 Grand.

Of course, there are many, many more stores lined along Grand Avenue. Take a drive down the street and you’ll see – and probably want to stop and shop! There are also services along Grand, like a US Bank and Wells Fargo, as well as a few tailors and an auto mechanic. The 63 bus route runs the length of Grand, and the Business Association runs a free trolley on weekends.