This is where we are having our rehearsal dinner, so come on over later in the night on Friday to continue the festivities! Graze features a food hall-type setup with tons of great options (also veg friendly) and a rooftop patio with amazing views of Minneapolis. Perhaps most importantly, this is where we watched the Bucks win Game Five against the Suns in the NBA Finals.
We are simply in love with Alma. Located in St. Anthony-Main area, quite close to the wedding venue as well as Stone Arch Bridge/the parkway. Jane's favorite drink is cold brew with oat milk and Rosemary Maple syrup. The baked goods are 11/10. Also an excellent spot to grab lunch/dinner and drinks! Oh, and it's a hotel as well!
If you love German beer and food, look no further. We frequent this historic house-turned-brewery for lagers and giant pretzels (and some PRIME dog-watching). This place is super neat and has been around since the mid 1850's (since before Minnesota was officially a state!). You can even take a quick tour before/while you grab your brews.
Afton State Park is located on the St. Croix River, and takes less than a half hour to get to from the cities. The three of us have spent many of our days here (Thanksgiving, birthdays, Jane's first real hike after hip surgery, etc.) and Afton holds a special place in our hearts! Equally perfect for leisurely walks with a coffee or a bit of cardio on some of the trails.
The perfect place in Saint Paul for a cone of Peppermint Bon Bon (Alex's go-to) and/or a dish of Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough (Jane's fave). Super cute, old fashioned scoop shop. Take it to go and stroll down Grand Avenue for some window shopping, or along Summit Avenue nearby to gaze at all the amazing houses!
Located right next door to Graze, Modist is another one of our favorite downtown Minneapolis spots. They have lots of super tasty beers, including a golden lager that tastes like coffee. I don't know how those madmen do it, but it's phenomenal.
Bde Maka Ska (translates to “White Earth Lake” in the Dakota language) is of the most popular and largest lakes in the Minneapolis area. The park offers a ~3 mile paved path around the lake that is runner, bike, and dog-friendly, if you're looking for a scenic place to get some movement in! They also have a couple small beaches and offer several outdoor activities.