Blog - Twin Cities Gateway

Beers and nachos on the patio at MC'S Taphouse

Fall, Food, Spring, Summer Shed the Layers, Savor the Flavors: Your Guide to Amazing Patio Dining in the Twin Cities Gateway!

The moment we’ve all been waiting for is here! Sunshine is abundant, the evenings are pleasantly warm, and the unmistakable call of patio dining is in the air….

Family, Holidays, Spring Make Mom Feel Special: Mother’s Day Adventures in the Twin Cities Gateway!

Mother’s Day is just around the corner (Sunday, May 11th, 2025!), and it’s the perfect time to show the amazing moms in our lives how much we appreciate…

Fall, Family, Shopping, Spring, Summer, Winter Celebrate World Book Day in the Twin Cities Gateway: Your Guide to Local Bookstores

Happy World Book Day! Every year on April 23rd, book lovers around the globe celebrate the joy of reading, authors, and the wonderful places that connect us with…

Outdoors, Shopping, Spring, Summer Spring Awakening: Gardening Tips & Local Nurseries and Greenhouses

As the long winter months near their end and the days grow longer, it’s time to welcome spring with fresh blooms, lush greenery, and a garden full of…

Family, Spring The Great Outdoors: Exploring Twin Cities Gateway Parks in Early Spring

As winter gives way to spring, the Twin Cities Gateway comes alive with fresh air, budding trees, and the promise of warmer days ahead. Early spring is the…

Biking, Spring Spring Into Wellness: Health & Fitness in the Twin Cities Gateway

As the snow melts and the days grow longer in Minnesota, spring is the perfect time to refresh your health and wellness routine. Whether you’re looking to build…

Food, Spring March Madness: The Best Local Sports Bars & Viewing Parties in the Gateway

March Madness is here, and there’s no better way to experience the thrill of basketball than surrounded by great food and plenty of screens. Whether you’re rooting for…

Family, Itineraries, Spring 10 Ways to Celebrate Rainy Days

Regardless of the season or the weather, there’s always tons of fun to be had in the Twin Cities Gateway, just minutes away from downtown Minneapolis and Saint…

Biking, Family, Food, Golf, Itineraries, Outdoors, Spring Six Ways to Savor Spring in the Twin Cities Gateway

Spring has almost sprung in Twin Cities Gateway! Start planning your spring break adventure today! From endless miles of hiking and biking trails to our nine golf courses,…

Family, Food, Itineraries, Spring, Summer TC Gateway Itinerary: Spring Family Getaway in the Twin Cities Gateway

Escape to the Twin Cities Gateway this spring for a memorable family adventure! This itinerary is packed with kid-friendly activities and delicious eats, perfect for a long weekend…

Family, Food, Outdoors, Spring, Summer, Winter 10X The FUN All Year Round!

Explore Minnesota doesn’t stop at the travel guide! Dive deeper into the endless adventures that await you, no matter the season. The Twin Cities Gateway is your one-stop…

Food, Itineraries, Outdoors, Spring A Romantic, Scenic Day in Anoka & Coon Rapids Read More

Fall, Family, Outdoors, Spring, Summer Family-friendly Hikes in the Twin Cities Gateway

Enjoy nature and get some wiggles out at these family-friendly spots for hiking in the Twin Cities Gateway!

Fall, Family, Spring, Summer Bike, Hike, and Walk the Twin Cities’ Trails

Explore the stunning landscapes of the Twin Cities Gateway region, where miles of trails wind through lush forests and alongside crystal-clear lakes. Whether you prefer biking, hiking, or…

Biking, Fall, Family, Food, Outdoors, Spring, Summer Twin Cities Gateway: An Outdoor Enthusiast’s Paradise!

Just minutes north of the bustling Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul lies a hidden gem for those who love the outdoors – the Twin Cities Gateway….

Fall, Shopping, Spring, Summer Retail Therapy in the Twin Cities Gateway: More Than Meets the Eye!

The Twin Cities Gateway, known for its proximity to Minneapolis and St. Paul, is more than just a convenient place to stay. It’s also home to a surprisingly…

Fall, Food, Itineraries, Spring, Summer, Winter 7 Great Spots for Cocktails in the Twin Cities Gateway

Sip in style at these Twin Cities Gateway cocktail spots. From build-your-own Bloody Marys to a Prohibition-inspired speakeasy, here are our top picks for places where you can…

Fall, Family, Food, Golf, Itineraries, Outdoors, Shopping, Spring, Summer Best Activities Near Golf Courses in the Twin Cities Gateway

Does your travel companion love to golf, but you’re not interested in hitting the links? In the Twin Cities Gateway, there are lots of fun activities near local…

Biking, Fall, Outdoors, Spring, Summer Endless Biking & Hiking Trails to Explore

The Twin Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul are well known as one of the best metropolitan areas for biking in the country. In the Twin Cities Gateway,…

Winter Best Outdoor Locations for Winter Activities

As the cold winter months transform the North Star State into a snowy escape, the landscape becomes the perfect playground for cross-country skiing, hiking, and ice fishing. Whether…

Food, Winter Indulge in Comfort Food in the Twin Cities Gateway

As the temperatures drop and the winter season takes hold in full swing, embrace the warmth of a local cozy restaurant with all your favorite comfort foods! The…

Winter Winter Festivals and Events

Winter Festivals and Events As the new year begins and the cold weather settles in, take the time to appreciate the warm community spirit of the North Star…

Holidays, Meetings, Winter Best Places for Holiday Parties and Gatherings

The holiday season marks a time of festivity and celebration. As you plan your seasonal get-togethers with your friends and family, look to the Twin Cities Gateway region…

Shopping, Winter Your Holiday Shopping Guide in Twin Cities Gateway

As the holiday season settles in, it’s time to embrace the joy of giving and explore the diverse and exciting shopping options in the Twin Cities Gateway region….

Family, Holidays, Outdoors, Winter Holiday Lights and MORE in the Twin Cities Gateway

The short days make winter the darkest time of the year, but thanks to local holiday lights displays, it can also be one of the brightest. In the…

Fall, Family, Winter Warm Winter Fun on Chilly Days in the Twin Cities Gateway

Get ready for a rollercoaster of family fun in the Twin Cities Gateway, where boredom goes to hibernate! Rain or shine, snow or sizzle, Minnesota’s got your back…

Family, Itineraries, Winter 17 Secrets to Winter Family Fun in the Twin Cities Gateway

When winter sets in, don’t sink into a boring routine. Don’t let flurries send you into a fury. The surest way to prevent cabin fever is to get…

Itineraries, Winter 12+ Secrets to Fun for Grownups This Winter in the Twin Cities

All work and no play is boring. Being an adult doesn’t have to be dull. Not even in winter, when the temptation to stick with familiarity is strongest….

Family, Itineraries, Winter Six Ways to Keep Your Kids Entertained All Winter in the Twin Cities Gateway

Since many of us don’t have the time to take a proper vacation in the dead of winter, we’ve got a much better idea: getting away from it…

Itineraries, Winter Five Cures For Cabin Fever in the Twin Cities

When the winter blues reach a breaking point and spring feels more like a distant memory than a foregone conclusion, the last thing you wanna do is let…

Family, Holidays, Shopping, Winter Your Guide to Holiday Shopping and Events in the Twin Cities Gateway

Never has it been more important to support small businesses than it is right now. We’ve gathered a list of some of our favorite shopping spots in Anoka…

Family, Food, Winter Warm Winter Options for Families in the Twin Cities Gateway

When it comes to family fun, the Twin Cities Gateway in Minnesota has plenty of options to keep both kids and adults entertained. Whether it’s a rainy day…

Itineraries, Outdoors Best Places To Watch the Sunset in Twin Cities Gateway

As the evening sky transforms with burnt orange and pink hues this season, take the time to admire the sun dipping below the horizon. The Twin Cities Gateway…

Fall, Food, Winter Best Soup Spots for a Cozy Meal

As the seasons change and the crisp fall air sets in, it is only natural to crave a warm cup of soup or a cozy meal to bask…

Fall, Holidays How to Spend the Thanksgiving Season in Twin Cities Gateway

As the heart of the holiday season arrives, the Twin Cities Gateway region offers a diverse array of opportunities for celebration with your loved ones. Whether you are…

Fall Out-of-the-Box and Hidden Gems to Discover in Twin Cities Gateway

If you’re in the mood for an adventurous weekend, the Twin Cities Gateway region is the perfect place to explore. From unique ghost tours in Anoka to thrilling…

Biking, Family, Itineraries, Outdoors, Winter Top 5 Winter Adventures to Explore

There’s no end to wintry fun in Twin Cities Gateway! From skijoring and sleigh rides to snowshoeing and indoor fun you’ll find just about every winter activity imaginable….

Fall, Itineraries, Winter Hot Spots on Cold Nights in the Twin Cities

No need to shiver at home. Winter is a great time to visit the communities of the Twin Cities Gateway, located just minutes away from downtown Minneapolis or…

Food Pizza Night in the Twin Cities

Whether you are going out with friends and family or staying in, pizza is the perfect addition to any day. Fortunately, the Twin Cities Gateway region is home…

Fall, Family Twin Cities Gateway: Things to do in Downtown Anoka

Downtown Anoka offers a plethora of activities to try, places to visit, and food to eat. From its various dining options on Main Street to its historical legacy…

Fall Spooky Spectacles that Scream Halloween

The Halloween season is creeping into the Twin Cities Gateway region, with numerous spooky attractions offering something for everyone to enjoy. Immerse yourself in the magical spirit of…

Fall, Family Autumnal Adventures over MEA Weekend

As the leaves turn to a stunning array of burnt orange hues and the brisk autumnal air settles in, MEA weekend offers the perfect opportunity to explore a…

Fall Sports Bars for Watching the Big Game

Fall brings two of the nation’s most popular sports to the screen and has sports bars across the Twin Cities Gateway region filling up every weekend. Try out…

Fall Gorgeous Places to Take Special Event Photos

Planning a 2025 wedding? Have a black-tie corporate event to schedule? Looking around for the perfect spot for engagement photos? The Twin Cities Gateway region is chock full…

Fall, Itineraries Itinerary: Couple or Best Friend Weekend Getaway in the Fall

Autumn is one of the best times to explore the Twin Cities Gateway region. Whether planning a much-needed couples retreat or a best friend weekend trip, there is…

Fall Enjoy the Twin Cities Gateway Region’s Fall Colors

The Twin Cities Gateway region will soon be bursting with fall color—hues of gold, orange, red and brown make the region one of the best in the nation…

Fall, Food Celebrate Oktoberfest at Twin Cities Gateway Breweries

With seasonal beers, delicious food, and live music, Oktoberfest is a perfect opportunity to check out these local craft breweries in the Twin Cities Gateway. 10K Brewing, Anoka…

Fall, Family, Itineraries, Outdoors 10 Things to Do During MEA Weekend in the Twin Cities Gateway

Spend MEA weekend in the Twin Cities Gateway! From seasonal outdoor activities to indoor fun, here are 10 kid-friendly things to do.

Fall, Itineraries 15+ Ideas for Fall Fun in the Twin Cities

Fall’s crisp air, cooler temperatures, and spectacular colors are natural invitations to break out of routine. Deciding where to go is easy: The Twin Cities Gateway communities, located…

Fall, Family, Itineraries Fall Family Fun: 10 Best-Kept Secrets of the Twin Cities Gateway

While the weather outside is delightful, plan to build some memories this fall that will warm your heart through winter: Grab the whole family for a day of…

Fall, Family, Summer Fishing Holes in the Gateway Region

Anglers in the Twin Cities Gateway region are truly spoiled for choice, with over 1,000 lakes in the greater metro area offering a fishing spot around nearly every…

Fall, Family Free Things to do with Kids

The Twin Cities Gateway region is a family-friendly destination filled with exciting activities that cater to all ages, particularly those seeking free experiences for kids. From festive pumpkin…

Fall, Family, Summer Fido-Friendly Travel

Whether traveling to or within the Twin Cities Gateway region, it’s easy to find ways to keep your furry friend at your side with these dog-friendly spots and…

Family, Food, Summer Spend the Last Days of Summer Fun in the Twin Cities Gateway

Summer is coming to an end, but there’s still plenty of fun to be had in the Twin Cities Gateway! From concerts and festivals to car shows and…

Fall, Food, Itineraries, Outdoors, Shopping Enjoy a couples fall getaway to the Twin Cities Gateway

This fall, plan a couples getaway to the Twin Cities Gateway! Check out these activities, restaurants, and nightlife spots for the perfect romantic weekend itinerary.

Food Fueling Your Day: A Guide to Breakfast in the Twin Cities Gateway

The Twin Cities Gateway area is a treasure trove of breakfast spots, each offering unique flavors and experiences to kickstart your day. Whether you’re a fan of classic…

Fall, Family, Holidays Tricks and Treats in Anoka, the Halloween Capital of the World

Anoka: A Spooktacular Halloween Destination Anoka, Minnesota, proudly claims its title as the Halloween Capital of the World, and for good reason! This vibrant city embraces the spooky…

Fall, Family, Spring, Summer, Winter The Most Instagrammable Locations in the Twin Cities Gateway

Are you looking for the perfect spots to capture stunning photos for your Instagram feed? Look no further than the Twin Cities Gateway area! This vibrant region offers…

Fall, Golf, Outdoors, Spring, Summer Fairways & Fun Couples Adventure in TCG Read More

Fall, Family, Food, Spring, Summer, Winter Foodie Finds in the Twin Cities Gateway: Crumbl Cookies, Local Gems, and More!

If you’re visiting or live in the Twin Cities Gateway area, you’re in for a treat! This vibrant region boasts a diverse culinary scene that caters to every…

Itineraries, Summer Pawsome Adventures Await: Explore Twin Cities Gateway with Your Dog

Everyone deserves a vacation, including your furry friend! Twin Cities Gateway is the perfect destination for your canine companion to wag its tail and enjoy all the dog-friendly…

Family, Food, Golf, Holidays, Outdoors, Summer 2024 Summer Events in the Twin Cities Gateway

Community festivals, Fourth of July fireworks, sports, live music, and more: save the date for these summer events in the Twin Cities Gateway.

Fall, Itineraries, Spring, Summer Classic Americana Date Night in the Twin Cities Gateway Read More

Food, Itineraries, Summer Date Ideas for History Buffs in the Twin Cities Gateway! Read More

Family, Food, Itineraries, Spring, Winter A Day (and Night) of Fun in the Twin Cities Gateway Read More

Food, Itineraries, Spring Nostalgic Date Night in the Twin Cities Gateway Read More

Family, Food Best Burgers in the Twin Cities

Nothing hits the spot like a delicious burger, and the Twin Cities Gateway has plenty of local restaurants serving everything from perfectly-crafted cheeseburgers to gourmet build-your-own creations. Whatever…

Family, Winter Brave The Brrr this January 2024!

Brave the BRRR Due to the unseasonably warm weather, we have made a few adjustments to this weekend’s planned Brave the Brrr schedule: Brrrzaar Extravaganza:…

Food #SupportLocal: Top Tasty Takeout Options in Twin Cities Gateway

Support local businesses by ordering takeout! We’ve compiled a list of some of the best local spots to grab food to-go in the Twin Cities Gateway. World Flavors…

Fall, Family Celebrate Fall in the Gateway!

The Twin Cities Gateway region is home to a variety of fall festivals, each with its own unique flavor. Here is a brief overview of some of the…

Biking The Twin Cities Gateway: Coon Rapids’ Parks, Trails, and More

You’ve got your bike and you’re all set. Now, what do you do and where to ride? Luckily, Coon Rapids in the north metro of the Twin Cities…

Family, Itineraries, Summer Fourth of July Family Getaway in the Twin Cities Gateway

Fireworks, ice cream, waterparks, and more: this itinerary for a long Fourth of July weekend in the Twin Cities Gateway guarantees a fun time for the entire family!

Fall, Golf, Itineraries, Spring, Summer Play Nine: Great Golf in the Twin Cities

The Twin Cities Gateway offers multiple golf personalities in the Minneapolis and St. Paul area. What this region has in common are ties with numerous lakes and rivers…

Food Excite Your Taste Buds! Extreme Foods in Twin Cities Gateway

No adventure is complete without some equally adventurous or exciting flavors! To kick off our excitement for the highly-anticipated return of Minnesota’s Great Comeback-together – the Minnesota State…

Family, Food, Summer Get the Scoop on Tasty Ice Cream Treats

Nothing says summer more deliciously than ice cream. You might consider it the cherry on top of a perfect summer day. You’ll find several premium ice cream parlors…

Fall, Family, Food, Itineraries, Spring, Summer, Winter 10 Best Spots to Eat With Kids in the Twin Cities Gateway

From a kid-friendly brunch to dinners that will satisfy the pickiest eaters, you’ll find plenty of delicious family-friendly fare in the Twin Cities Gateway! Here are our favorite…

Family, Itineraries Family Road Trip from Chicago to Twin Cities Gateway

Looking for a family-friendly destination for a long weekend getaway? Located approximately 400 miles from Chicago, the Twin Cities Gateway has dozens of kid-friendly attractions, parks and trails,…

Family, Itineraries Family Road Trip from Fargo to Twin Cities Gateway

Looking for a fun family-friendly destination close to home? Located just over 200 miles from Fargo, the Twin Cities Gateway has dozens of kid-friendly attractions, parks and trails,…

Family, Itineraries Family Road Trip from Duluth to Twin Cities Gateway

Looking for a fun family-friendly destination close to home? Located less than 150 miles from Duluth, the Twin Cities Gateway has dozens of kid-friendly attractions, parks and trails,…

Family, Itineraries Family Road Trip from Eau Claire to Twin Cities Gateway

Looking for a fun family-friendly destination close to home? Located less than 100 miles from Eau Claire, the Twin Cities Gateway has dozens of kid-friendly attractions, parks and…

Food, Outdoors Five Superb Patios in Twin Cities Gateway

There’s no better way to bask in the warmer temps than relaxing on a patio! From breweries and brewpubs to cafes and classic hangouts, Twin Cities Gateway has…

Family, Itineraries 9 Secrets to Family Fun in the Twin Cities

While most people know to head to Mall of America, a Twins game and even the Minnesota Zoo when visiting the Twin Cities of Minneapolis-St. Paul, there’s so…

Meetings Meet in the Twin Cities Gateway

When it comes to hosting small corporate meetings, location is everything. And if you’re looking for a destination that offers a perfect blend of business and leisure, then…

Food, Holidays, Itineraries, Outdoors Eight Great Valentine’s Day Date Ideas

Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day with your special someone or your best gals, we’ve got plenty of exciting options and unique excursions to spent this intimate holiday! From…

Video Spruce up Your Home Décor for the Holidays

Deck the halls! From holiday wreathes and sprays to mini Christmas trees and delightful holiday centerpieces, Mickman Brothers, Inc. in Ham Lake has got plenty of holiday décor…

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Food, Outdoors Nine Outdoor Patios to Get Cozy at This Winter

It doesn’t get much more Minnesotan than getting cozy on an outdoor patio in the middle of winter! During the pandemic, restaurants are keeping visitors warm and toasty…

Biking, Summer, Winter Summer Or Winter Ham Lake Is A Perfect Place To Visit

Ham Lake is one of my favorite places to stay when visiting and biking in the Twin Cities Gateway Area. Getting around from here it is easy on…

Family, Food, Summer 10 Things to do for Summer Fun in Twin Cities Gateway Read More

Family, Food, Summer I Scream, You Scream for Yummy Ice Cream Treats

Nothing says summer more deliciously than ice cream. You might consider it the cherry on top of a perfect summer day. You’ll find several premium ice cream parlors…

Family, Food Sweet Treats! Top Ten Truffles, Tortes & Treats

Twin Cities Gateway is your go-to destination for a treat-filled adventure! From donuts as big as your head to triple-layer tortes, and from Swedish pastries to German Beehives,…

Family, Food, Itineraries Celebrating Diversity: BIPOC-Owned Local Businesses to Support

The Twin Cities Gateway area offers a diverse array of restaurants and businesses that represent the unique flavors of many nations near and far, making it a great…

Food Treat Yourself! 7 Sweet Pastry & Coffee Shops in Twin Cities Gateway

Twin Cities Gateway is your go-to destination for a pastry-filled adventure! From donuts as big as your head to homemade Twix bars, and from French pastries to German…

Family, Holidays Anoka Celebrates History as the Halloween Capital of the World

What better place to celebrate Halloween then the Halloween Capital of the World?! Anoka Halloween offers plenty of spooky and spectacular family-friendly Halloween celebrations, from parades to coronations,…

Family, Summer 5 Ways to Stay Cool This Summer

Minnesota is the land of 10, 000 lakes, but Twin Cities Gateway is your splash headquarters! With Minnesota’s largest outdoor water park, a tropical indoor waterpark, a slew…

Summer Must-See Summer Events in the Twin Cities

Summer offers endless exciting events in Twin Cities Gateway and beyond! From live music to art festivals, and fireworks to farmers markets, check out our list of must-see…

Family, Food, Itineraries 20 Things To Do in Twin Cities Gateway

Twin Cities Gateway is your gateway to a world of fun year-round! From outdoor adventures to indoor explorations, and foodie fun to brewery crawls, we’ve got endless fun…

Biking Shoreview’s Music Will Have You Pedal Dancing To Natures Beat

It’s your own Enterprise and you’re Captain Picard, on your bike in Shoreview – there’s no where you can’t go. This Twin Cities Gateway community offers friendly road…

Biking Twin Cities Gateway: Vacation Like an Olympian in Blaine, MN

Blaine is a city in the Twin Cities Gateway known for its sports. It’s home to the National Sports Center, the largest amateur sports complex in the world. The…

Fall, Itineraries, Spring, Summer, Winter Weekend Getaway to Twin Cities Gateway

Grab your friends or special someone and escape to the Twin Cities for exciting activities, great entertainment, and tasty brews. Leave with dozens of fun-filled memories. Plan a…

Biking, Summer Experience Fridley’s Nature, Arts and 49er Days in Twin Cities Gateway

You’re outside your hotel, maybe the new WoodSpring Suites, and ready to ride your bike around Fridley. It’s got a great balance of big chain stores and the…

Biking Biking Around Lino Lakes Is A Short Trip North For Fun

When you’re in Lino Lakes it can feel like you’re smack dab in the middle of northern Minnesota. You’re pedaling down wide open roads that take you by…

Biking, Fall A Halloween Capital, Discovering Anoka’s History, Trails, and More

Rolling into Anoka, MN for my next bike adventure, I felt a welcoming charm in this relaxing community with hospitality everywhere i turned. With gear on, water bottles full…

Biking, Summer The art of biking and festivals in friendly Fridley Minnesota

Pedaling along the Mississippi River Trail (MRT), north of Minneapolis, takes cyclists through the remarkable art community of Fridley, with the annual ’49er Days. One of the nine…

Biking, Summer The Blaine festival and farmers market are two fun events to bike too

If you are in the Twin Cities Gateway, north of Minneapolis and looking for fun this summer?

Biking, Summer Anoka’s Heritage Home and Garden Tour is enjoyable by bike

At the confluence of the Rum entering the Mississippi River you will find many beautiful turn-of-the-century homes and gardens to tour. Explore 13 historic neighborhoods on the Anoka…

Biking, Summer Shoreview’s music will have you dancing on your pedals to natures beat

The trails here, can be your playground for you and your bike in Shoreview – there’s no where you can’t go. This Twin Cities Gateway community here offers…

Biking, Summer Bike the Long Lake Trail while visiting New Brighton’s Stockyard Days

Riding the Long Lake Trails and taking in Stockyard Days, in New Brighton is a great example of what you will find visiting this area. Located on the…

Biking, Summer Bike races are a big draw to the Festival in the Park, in Mounds View

Mounds View is a great mix of busy and calm where you can ride your bike along creek side trails to visit festivals like the town’s Festival in the…

Biking, Fall Ride your bike to and from Blue Heron Days for a good time

When you’re in Lino Lakes it can feel like you’re smack dab in the middle of northern Minnesota, especially when you bike to Blue Heron Days. One of eight…

Biking, Fall A Minnesota fall bike/birding hotspot in the Twin Cities Gateway to enjoy

As fall approaches and many of the migratory birds starting to gather for their departure south on the flyway, we wanted to share a few bike/birding hotspots we…

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