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 as the Halloween mecca of the world, Anoka has something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are a history buff, antique shopper, or food connoisseur, Downtown Anoka is the place to be. Go shopping, try a new restaurant, or embark on a ghost tour, and don’t miss the opportunity to take in all the wonder of Downtown Anoka!
Learn Something New at the Anoka County Historical Society
Nestled in the heart of downtown Anoka is a 3,000-square-foot exhibit gallery surrounded by historic buildings waiting to be explored. Anoka, a city steeped in history dating back to the mid-nineteenth century, has a captivating legacy of ghost stories, tragic events like fires and tornados, and much more. A visit to the Anoka County Historical Society is a journey through time, offering guests the chance to peruse artifacts, written accounts, photographs, and age-old stories, all of which contribute to the rich history of Anoka. Open Wednesday through Saturday weekly, the Anoka County Historical Society welcomes locals and visitors alike to engage in the community.
Sip and Shop
Downtown Anoka offers countless dining and shopping options to choose from. Start your outing in Anoka by heading to Tasteful Delights Cafe, known for its European-style cuisine, such as savory crepes, hearty soups, and baked pies. Don’t leave without trying their airy crepe cake! Take your time perusing the shops on Main Street, from Antiques on Main to Pineapple Girl, each boutique featuring eclectic items and unique finds. For lunch or dinner, try Serum’s Good Time Emporium, a fun bar and grill housed in one of the oldest buildings in Anoka. Their specialty items include hot wings and ribs, with a number of sandwiches and pizzas on the menu as well. Finally, stop by 10K Brewing to sample a selection of craft beers, with new beer on tap each week.
Venture on a Walking Ghost Tour
The Ghosts of Anoka Walking Tour captivates the eerie spirit of Anoka with a costumed tour guide leading the way. Guests will walk through the historic neighborhoods of Anoka and hear about the town’s unexplained occurrences, haunting folktales, and ghost sightings. Known as the “Halloween Capital of the World,” Anoka is the perfect place to delve into this thrilling adventure on foot. This Halloween tradition takes place every October, with tours beginning their haunting journey in the evening hours.
