TRACY SEES STUFF 👀

Category: Explore Local Together

  • Explore Local Together Episode 4 – Minnesota National Parks

    Explore Local Together Episode 4 – Minnesota National Parks

    Welcome to Explore Local Together Episode 4! If you’re visiting from the podcast, thank you for listening. If not, please join us! At Explore Local Together, we share local gems in Minnesota, the Midwest, and Road-Tripping the USA. Below, you will find links throughout the blog post to click and listen to the podcast while you read.

    LISTEN to the podcast

    Minnesota National Park Systems

    On Episode 4, we’re talking about the Minnesota National Park systems, including the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway and Voyageurs National Park. We love National Parks and we’re thankful for these protected areas in Minnesota and across the country. (Did you know there are over 400?!) You can explore pristine beauty, experience pretty much every kind of recreation, and learn about everything from the wildlife to history.

    Voyageurs National Park – Photo Credit: NPS/Mark Miller – Park Ranger

    National Park Week is in April every year and runs special events for a week. It kicks off with a free-entry day and is followed by nine days of celebrations, each with a theme. Additionally, this is a great way to learn more about each park and about the National Park Service’s programs to preserve natural and cultural heritage and provide recreational opportunities. You can join the fun in person or online at nps.gov.

    St. Croix National Scenic Riverway

    The river was Minnesota’s first to be designated in the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System, managed by the National Park Service and designated in 1968. The Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway includes the St. Croix and Namekagon rivers and makes over 200 miles of clean water among wild and scenic beauty. From the heavily wooded banks, bluffs, cliffs, and pinnacles, and ever-changing landscapes, there is so much beauty and wonder to take in. 

    St. Croix National Scenic Riverway Things To Do

    Exploring the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway also includes the St. Croix Scenic Byway, State Parks, hiking, and historic towns with plenty of local gems to discover. Of course, this is what our podcast is all about and we have some other great blogs for you to explore. Read more about Taylors Falls HERE and find our St. Croix Valley itinerary HERE.

    HEAR Amy Frischmon with Taylors Falls Boats’ Interview

    Taylors Falls Boat Tours

    Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours offers authentic paddlewheel excursions on the St. Croix 7 days a week, May through October. Cruises are a great way to see the river and include a narrated tour of the history and rock formations. There are family-friendly tours throughout the day but our favorite is the sundown cruise. The Boats include the Taylors Falls Queen and the Taylors Falls Princess, both featuring enclosed lower levels and open upper decks to enjoy the fresh air and views.

    Tip: Go early and hang out on the Red Rock Patio, where you can enjoy a charcuterie board and wine while taking in the views. You can also order ahead and have the food waiting onboard. Plus, watch their calendar for live music events!

    The third week of April is also National Volunteer Week. If you’re interested in getting involved in preserving the St. Croix, check out the Wild Rivers Conservancy.  Their mission: ​​a thriving watershed, forever accessible, scenic and wild.

    Voyageurs National Park

    Voyageurs National Park is in Northern Minnesota near the Canadian border, with over 218,000 acres (40% is water!) and also borders the million acres of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. 

    Voyageurs National Park – Photo Credit: NPS/Mark Miller – Park Ranger

    Hear Park Ranger, Mark Miller’s Interview

    Voyageurs National Park offers something for everyone including canoeing, camping, fishing, hiking, houseboating, shopping in surrounding towns, birding, photography, and is a Dark Sky certified park. This park is special because you can truly escape the crowds and spend time alone among nature if that’s what you choose. There are many ways to enjoy this treasure of a park.

    Here is a list of Voyageurs Hiking Trails.


    Photo Credit: NPS/Mark Miller – Park Ranger

    PLAN YOUR VISIT and recreation.gov

    Adopt a Rescue Dog – Ruff Start Rescue

    We are partnering with Ruff Start Rescue and Best Friends Animal Society to feature one adoptable dog each month. We are passionate about rescue dogs and have two of our own, the Explore Local Together mascots, Allen and Carol. 

    Meet Ace Odin!

    Ace has been in rescue since May 2022. He is a Mixed American Staffordshire Terrier and American Bulldog and is a little over 3 years old. 

    He is all about the good vibes—treats, lap snuggles (he’s convinced he can fit on any lap even though he weighs 96 pounds), family car rides, and yard shenanigans. He loves relaxing, walks, playing with toys and chewing on bones. He’ll do best in a home with older kids (maybe above 10) and is not the biggest fan of cats. He has lived with dogs in the past and have done well.

    Do you think Ace could be the pup for you?! Visit Ruff Start Rescue HERE plus check out their volunteer opportunites.

    Let’s Explore Local Together!

    This website contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. We appreciate your support!

    Powered by Soulsite Media

    ©Explore Local Together

  • Explore Local Together Ep. 9 – Chisago Lakes

    Explore Local Together Ep. 9 – Chisago Lakes

    It’s time for Explore Local Together Episode 9! In this episode, we chat with Jill Behnke, Mayor of Center City, Minnesota! Hear about things to do and what makes visiting and living in beautiful Chisago Lakes special from lifelong resident Jill Behnke. If you’re visiting from the podcast, thank you for listening. If not, please join us! At Explore Local Together, we share local gems in Minnesota, the Midwest, and Road-Tripping the USA. 

    LISTEN TO THE PODCAST

    Things To Do in Chisago Lakes, Minnesota

    Chisago Lakes, Minnesota, is made up of five communites; Chisago City, Lindstrom, Center City, Schafer, and Taylors Falls. We chose to move to this area because there is always something fun happening, beautiful scenery, and outdoor recreation. As you will hear in our interview with Jill, there is a ton of fun events in the summer! From strawberry picking and farmers’ markets to festivals, live music, and theater. Plus, lake recreation including fishing, pontooning, and paddle boarding, or shopping and antiquing, hiking at a state park, and stopping at one of the many wineries in the area or our favorite brewery, Uncommon Loon. Cheers!

    Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions.

    LISTEN TO THE PODCAST

    Adopt a Rescue Dog – Ruff Start Rescue

    We partnered with Ruff Start Rescue and Best Friends Animal Society to feature one adoptable dog each month. We are passionate about rescue dogs and have two of our own, the Explore Local Together mascots, Allen and Carol. 

    Meet Hoover!

    Hoover is so cute! He is also very affectionate-once you are his person he will crawl into your lap and rest his head.  He is very cautious of strangers and will bark, but when introduced with treats he quickly becomes your best friend. Hoover loves his walks and slips right into his harness so his walk can begin. He would love to find an active family for hikes and walks! Meal time for Hoover is his absolute favorite! He’ll rush to his crate so he can dive into his kibble.  

    Hoover’s ideal home would be a quiet home in a rural setting. We’re looking at you, Chisago Lakes!

    If you want to adopt Hoover, click HERE.

    Let’s Explore Local Together!

    ©Tracy Blowers

  • National Scenic Trails in Minnesota and Wisconsin

    National Scenic Trails in Minnesota and Wisconsin

    It’s time for Explore Local Together Episode 8! Did you know that we have easy access to TWO Regional National Scenic Trails in Minnesota and Wisconsin? This week we are talking about National Trails Day® including interviews with the Ice Age Trail Alliance and North Country Trail Association. If you’re visiting from the podcast, thank you for listening. If not, please join us! At Explore Local Together, we share local gems in Minnesota, the Midwest, and Road-Tripping the USA. 

    LISTEN TO THE PODCAST

    National Hiking Trails in Minnesota and Wisconsin

    National Trails Day® is about more than hiking, it’s about getting outside and experiencing the benefits of nature in a way that works for you. Whether that is alone or with your favorite people, taking on challenging hikes or leisurely walks.

    The beautiful Superior Hiking Trail is part of the North Country Trail. The North Country Trail is the longest National Scenic Trail in America. It offers diverse landscapes stretching 4,800 miles across eight states (North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, and Vermont). This trail features every landscape, from the rugged shorelines of the three largest Great Lakes and glacial valleys with waterfalls to farmlands and prairies.

    The Ice Age Trail is a 1,000-mile footpath in Wisconsin. It follows the path that the glaciers carved through rocky terrain, prairies, and forests. Both of these trails offer something for everyone including hiking, picnicking, birding, and camping. The trails bring you to parks, towns, rivers, and lakes. The possibilities are endless of things to do and ways to get outside.

    Hear our combined interview with  Melissa Pierick, Director of Marketing and Community Relations, from the Ice Age Trail Alliance and Kate Lemon, Marketing + Communications Coordinator, with North Country Trail Association talking about both Regional National Scenic Trails. Both trails recently became part of the National Park system.

    LISTEN TO THE PODCAST

    Happy National Hiking Day! Make sure to get outside and escape into the beauty of nature. ❤️

    Adopt a Rescue Dog – Ruff Start Rescue

    We are partnering with Ruff Start Rescue and Best Friends Animal Society to feature one adoptable dog each month. We are passionate about rescue dogs and have two of our own, the Explore Local Together mascots, Allen and Carol. 

    Meet Phyllis!

    Phyllis is a sassy senior! She is looking for that special someone who understands aging isn’t always easy, she may not feel the cutest and therefore needs plenty of alone time, lots of naps, and tons of good food and treats. I feel ya, Phyllis! 😉

    Phyllis would rather take short walks and have easy access to her food and potty. She prefers to sleep near you so she knows you’re sticking around and likes to be tucked in. Phyllis does snore (as any self respecting bulldog does) so earplugs may be necessary if she sleeps right next to you. She likes to talk and will tell you when she wants attention, when she is hungry, when she has to potty and most importantly when she needs to be tucked in. Squeaky toys are her favorite!

    She is part of their “Seniors for Seniors” program where we offer senior adopters an opportunity to adopt an eligible pet at a discounted fee.

    If you think you are that special someone for Phyllis – visit her profile HERE and fill out an application.

    Things to Do in Minnesota

    Upcoming Local and Beyond Events:

    Here is our new Facebook group link! https://www.facebook.com/groups/804383574380433

    Let’s Explore Local Together!

    Powered by Soulsite Media

    ©Explore Local Together

  • Best stops along the North Shore in Minnesota

    Best stops along the North Shore in Minnesota

    It’s time for Explore Local Together Episode 7! We are taking you to Minnesota’s iconic North Shore and Bluefin Bay. If you’re visiting from the podcast, thank you for listening. If not, please join us! At Explore Local Together, we share local gems in Minnesota, the Midwest, and Road-Tripping the USA. You will see links throughout the blog post to click and listen to the podcast while you read.

    LISTEN to the PODCAST

    Best Stops along the North Shore in Minnesota

    Find your favorite stops along the North Shore from Duluth to Bluefin Bay and click the links to hear an informative interview with Bluefin Bay’s marketing manager, Katie. She shares lodging options, Memorial Day weekend activities, and more!

    HEAR Bluefin Bay’s INTERVIEW

    rocky cliff on the north shore in minnesota

    We highly recommend leaving early and taking your time driving along the North Shore. There are so many interesting places to stop and beautiful things to see. My favorite is when you hit Duluth and see the big lake for the first time! Your eyes have to adjust when you see just how far Lake Superior spans. At nearly 32,000 square miles, it is the world’s largest freshwater lake. The North Shore Scenic Drive runs 154 miles between Duluth and Canada, following Lake Superior, and is designated as an All-American Road.

    While driving the North Shore, you will see water that melts into the horizon, forests, wild flowers, pebbled beaches where you can search for beach glass, agates, and fossils, you’ll find lighthouses, high rocky cliffs, and 8 state parks! Make sure to watch for wildlife.

    The Aerial Lift Bridge and Canal Park in Duluth, Minnesota. Hang out, stretch your legs, and watch the ships come through.  

    aerial bridge in duluth minnesota

    Brighton Beach Park has been there since 1922 and is a great spot to rock hunt or have a picnic. The park is also the start of Duluth’s Lakewalk. An 8 mile paved trail that will take you to Bayfront Park, mostly along the shore.

    New Scenic Cafe is a cozy cafe with delicious high-end food and tons of outdoor seating.

    Great! Lakes Candy Kitchen offers a ton of yummy candy! They are 3rd and 4th generation candy makers using 100 year old family recipes. There is a short fun bear trail, outdoor art, and picnic tables.

    LISTEN to the PODCAST

    Russ Kendall’s Smoke House – we LOVE their specialty sugar-cured salmon!

    Castle Danger Brewing offers delicious craft beer. Grab a growler to enjoy with your smoked salmon. We love hanging out here, plenty of space, dog-friendly, and outdoor games. Favorites Beers include George Hunter Stout and the Lager Royale!

    After stopping at Castle Danger Brewing, take a walk at Agate Bay Trail.

    Ready for coffee? Stop at Cedar Coffee Company. Not too far off 61 and tucked in the woods; it’s a fantastic escape. Their coffee, teas, and food are fantastic! Plus a dog-friendly patio.

    Betty’s Pies OR Rustic Inn Cafe – Betty’s is famous but we really love the pies at Rustic Inn! Betty’s is a place that you have to experience but make sure to try the pie at Rustic too.

    Rustic Inn Cafe Pie

    Find the famous Black Beach in Silver Bay. Make sure to read and learn how it was actually formed!

    Schroeder’s Baking Company has a lot of space to relax and enjoy a root beer floats. Don’t eat too much because you’re almost to Bluefin Bay!

    You’ve arrived at Bluefin Bay! Bluefin Bay restaurants offer amazing views steps from the lake. Their 3 unique dining experiences include Bluefin Grille, Coho Cafe and Bakery, and Waves Cafe.

    HEAR Bluefin Bay’s marketing manager, Katie’s INTERVIEW

    Photo Credit: Bluefin Bay

    8 State Parks on the North Shore in Minnesota

    Gooseberry Falls State Park is a popular stop to see waterfalls. It is home to five spectacular waterfalls, along with scenic, accessible hiking trails. Explore the park’s rugged shoreline and the visitor center, including a theater, interpretive displays, a trail center, a nature store, modern bathrooms, and vending machines. This stop will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to hit the road again.

    Split Rock Lighthouse State Park feels like you stepped into a piece of art. The historic Split Rock Lighthouse has stood as a beacon of safety for ships and travelers along the shoreline since 1910. Tour the lighthouse, enjoy hiking trails, campsites and picnic areas, fishing docks, and pebble beaches.

    Tettegouche State Park is filled with soaring views of Lake Superior including Palisade Head. Experience sea caves, a sea stack, trails, beaches, rivers, and waterfalls. You can walk just a few city blocks from the visitor center to a gravel beach where the Baptism River meets Lake Superior. Whether you love fishing, hiking, camping, kayaking, or just enjoying nature, this is an unforgettable experience.

    George Crosby Manitou State Park is serene, with over 1,000 acres offering more beautiful views of Lake Superior and old-growth forests. Visitors can enjoy the Cascades of the Manitou River after a gorgeous hike through a rugged landscape. Plus, hiking, biking, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and more.

    Temperance River State Park is nestled among rolling hills, lush forests, and a winding river. Enjoy scenic overlooks along the river. Even if you only have an hour, you can hike riverside trails along the impressive Temperance River Gorge and see waterfalls. The park is home to various wildlife, including bald eagles, osprey, and deer.

    Cascade River State Park is situated along the Sawtooth Mountains and is known for its breathtaking views of Lake Superior, the Cascade River gorge, and the surrounding forests. Discover the Cascades, a series of five small waterfalls, and the Cascade Falls on a half-mile hike on the Cascade River Lower Loop. Enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, bird watching, and photography. 

    Judge C.R. Magney State Park is well known for its solitude and the famous Devil’s Kettle waterfall! The most popular hike follows the Brule River upstream to Devil’s Kettle, where the river splits around a mass of volcanic rock. Do you know the mystery around Devil’s Kettle? There are also several trails for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. The park also offers trout fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and access to the Superior Hiking Trail. 

    Grand Portage State Park is located on the Canada-United States border. It is also home to Minnesota’s highest waterfall! The High Falls Trail is an easy, one-mile round-trip hike to see the waterfall. The park features wild and beautiful landscapes, including the High Falls of the Pigeon River, cascading waterfalls, and a variety of wildlife habitats. 

    Happy travels to the North Shore and please let us know if you have questions.

    Adopt a Rescue Dog – Ruff Start Rescue

    We are partnering with Ruff Start Rescue and Best Friends Animal Society to feature one adoptable dog each month. We are passionate about rescue dogs and have two of our own, the Explore Local Together mascots, Allen and Carol. 

    Meet Phyllis!

    Phyllis is a sassy senior! She is looking for that special someone who understands aging isn’t always easy, she may not feel the cutest and therefore needs plenty of alone time, lots of naps, and tons of good food and treats. I feel ya, Phyllis! 😉

    Phyllis prefers short walks and easy access to her food and potty. She prefers to sleep near you so she knows you’re sticking around and likes to be tucked in. Phyllis does snore (as any self respecting bulldog does) so earplugs may be necessary if she sleeps right next to you. She likes to talk and will tell you when she wants attention, when she is hungry, when she has to potty and most importantly when she needs to be tucked in. Squeaky toys are her favorite!

    She is part of their “Seniors for Seniors” program where we offer senior adopters an opportunity to adopt an eligible pet at a discounted fee.

    If you think you are that special someone for Phyllis – visit her profile HERE and fill out an application.

    Let’s Explore Local Together!

    Powered by Solsite Co. Creative.

    ©Explore Local Together

  • St. Croix Valley Pottery Tour

    St. Croix Valley Pottery Tour

    It’s time for the 32nd Annual St. Croix Valley Pottery Tour! I had the opportunity to sit down and talk with potter and founder, Will Swanson. We met at his studio in Sunrise, Minnesota, just a little over a mile from Wild River State Park. It’s a beautiful setting to explore pottery, meet the artists, and enjoy a relaxing vibe. You can feel and see the heart and energy that goes into creating each piece. My soul was full and smiling after talking with Will and walking the property!

    LISTEN to the INTERVIEW

    St. Croix Valley Pottery Tour in Chisago County, Minnesota

    Enjoy a sneak peek at some of the pieces I captured while the potters from across the USA were unloading.

    The pottery tour is May 10, 11, and 12, 2024, located at 7 different locations with 69 potters. The studios are within an hour of the Twin Cities and admission is FREE. Friday and Saturday hours are 10:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. and Sunday is 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. The St. Croix Valley Pottery Tour began in 1993 and their focus is ceramics with a wide range of diversity.

    LISTEN to the INTERVIEW

    Make sure to check out podcast episode 5 for places to stop along the way – from eating, drinking wine, shopping, and hiking. Or visit the blog post HERE. Have a beautiful weekend!

    Let’s Explore Local Together!

    Powered by Soulsite Media

    ©Explore Local Together

  • Explore Local Together Episode 5 – Chisago Lakes Itineraries

    Explore Local Together Episode 5 – Chisago Lakes Itineraries

    **This was our Mother’s Day episode but these itineraries are great all summer!

    It’s time for Explore Local Together Episode 5 where we discuss Mother’s Day itineraries in Chisago Lakes, Minnesota! If you’re visiting from the podcast, thank you for listening. If not, please join us! At Explore Local Together, we share local gems in Minnesota, the Midwest, and Road-Tripping the USA. Below, you will find links throughout the blog post to click and listen to the podcast while you read.

    LISTEN to the podcast

    In this episode, we chat about Chisago Lakes and Mother’s Day itineraries for the whole family. Whether you are a local or visiting, we have ideas for you to explore the area with a lightning round of our top picks. We have two interviews: one with incredible writer and mom/travel blogger Antonia from Knead to Roam. Antonia gives her POV of coming to Chisago Lakes from the Twin Cities while traveling with kids and/or multi-generations. In addition, a fun and interesting interview with Musician Matthew Griswold. Matthew made the transition from US Army Soldier to Professional Songwriter/Musician in 2008 and has been going full force ever since.

    LISTEN to the podcast

    Things to Do for Mother’s Day in Lindstrom, Minnesota

    Here are the itinerary ideas for you to explore Chisago Lakes!

    Swedish Inn, St. Croix Valley Pottery Tour, Dalles House

    Start your day at the Swedish Inn for breakfast. We love that they open early and the service is top-notch. Enjoy a down-to-earth atmosphere and breakfast, including authentic Swedish food options. After breakfast, visit the St. Croix River Valley Pottery Tour. The pottery tour is in its 32nd year with over 70 potters at 7 studios. While at the Taylors Falls studio stop, cross the bridge to WI and eat lunch at the Dalles House. I love the Dalles House Burger! Plus, brunch is served every Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

    I recently worked with Chisago Lakes Tourism and Shrpa to create the below itineraries as a paid partnership.

    Have you ever wondered about those square art pieces on many of the buildings in Chisago Lakes? Well, now ALL the information is easily accessible at chisagolakes.org. You can make this a road-tripping day or a walking tour! With over 70 barn quilts to see, there is a lot of exploring and stops to make along the way. You will want to come back again or make this a full weekend trip.

    Barn Quilt Trail – Driving Itinerary

    Stops include: Northwoods Roasterie, Ojiketa Regional Park, Evergreen Oasis Farm & Market, Unruly Acres, Pleasant Valley Orchard, Uncommon Loon Brewing Company, and Nordic Harbor Haus.

    Barn Quilt Trail – Walking Itinerary

    Stops include: Swedish Inn, Walking/Shopping the City of Lindstrom, The Northern Tavern

    In Lindstrom, Minnesota, it’s an adventure to find the Barn Quilts because some are a little hidden and there is a ton of shopping. You will find unique gifts, Swedish items, antiques and vintage treasures, women’s clothing, and home goods. Here are some of the stores with my fave Barn Quilts- Swedish Gift Store, Lindstrom Antique Mall, The Oven Mitt, Ghosts in the Attic, State Farm Insurance, Bean Counters, and Glädje. Other shops not to miss are Farm and Thread, In the Moment Boutique, and Rose’s Collectibles.

    LISTEN to the podcast

    Links to all the other top picks that we mentioned in the podcast: Gustaf’s Eatery, Picket Fence Gals, Northwoods Roasterie, Coffeesmith, 3 Arrows Coffee, Watershed Cafe, Keys Cafe, Swedish Immigrant Trail, Franconia Sculpture Park, Slattergrens Farm, Be Wild Burgers, Meister’s Bar & Grill, Rustic Roots Winery.

    Lodging in Chisago Lakes, Minnesota

    Nordic Harbor Haus: Brand new, variety of rooms including a vacation house with multiple decks and backyard, roof top bar, surrounded by water, easy access to to town and adventures.

    Maple House: 6-bedroom private home in a quiet neighborhood, walking distance to town, plenty of space for a large group, outdoor fire pit and backyard to relax and listen to the river. 

    Hear Writer and Travel Blogger Antonia with Knead to Roam’s Itinerary HERE or see her multigenerational blog post HERE.

    Photo credit: Antonia Grant/Knead-to-Roam

    Hear Musician Matthew Gris interview HERE.

    Adopt a Rescue Dog – Ruff Start Rescue

    We are partnering with Ruff Start Rescue and Best Friends Animal Society to feature one adoptable dog each month. We are passionate about rescue dogs and have two of our own, the Explore Local Together mascots, Allen and Carol. 

    Meet Phyllis!

    Phyllis is a sassy senior! She is looking for that special someone who understands aging isn’t always easy, she may not feel the cutest and therefore needs plenty of alone time, lots of naps, and tons of good food and treats. I feel ya, Phyllis! 😉

    Phyllis would rather take short walks and have easy access to her food and potty. She prefers to sleep near you so she knows you’re sticking around and likes to be tucked in. Phyllis does snore (as any self respecting bulldog does) so earplugs may be necessary if she sleeps right next to you. She likes to talk and will tell you when she wants attention, when she is hungry, when she has to potty and most importantly when she needs to be tucked in. Squeaky toys are her favorite!

    She is part of their “Seniors for Seniors” program where we offer senior adopters an opportunity to adopt an eligible pet at a discounted fee.

    If you think you are that special someone for Phyllis – visit her profile HERE and fill out an application.

    Things to Do in Minnesota

    Upcoming Local and Beyond Events:

    Here is our new Facebook group link! https://www.facebook.com/groups/804383574380433

    Let’s Explore Local Together!

    Powered by Soulsite Media

    ©Explore Local Together

error: Content is protected !!