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Tag: travel

  • Lindstrom, Minnesota

    Lindstrom, Minnesota

    Best Small Towns in Minnesota

    Happy first day of fall! Holy moly, summer zoomed by, and I still have so much to share from our Minnesota road trips. As we’ve been exploring our home state, we find ourselves drawn to the Chisago Lakes area and recently visited Lindstrom. We’ve driven through many times but have never stopped to check out the town.

    Most people know Lindstrom by the adorable teacup water tower.

    Teacup water tower in Lindstrom Minnesota

    Lindstrom, Minnesota

    First, we started with breakfast at Gustof’s On Main Eatery. We enjoyed the food and feeling of community in this historic house turned eatery. Next to us, a friendly couple started up a conversation and gave us suggestions for fun things to do in town. It felt like breakfast with a bunch of friends that we have known forever.

    After breakfast, we needed a little extra pick me up so we walked to Northwoods Roasterie. This coffee shop is awesome! We really enjoyed the outdoor seating and the coffee is delicious. It was very busy but the service was great and the line moved quickly.

    Next, you can’t go to Lindstrom and not stop at the Lindstrom Bakery! Food & Wine Magazine named the Lindstrom Bakery as having the best donuts in Minnesota. The donuts are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, perfect for dunking in your coffee. The owner, Bernie Coulombe, has owned the bakery for 48 years. She recently sold the bakery but the sale fell through and Bernie is back!

    Minnesota State Parks

    Then we were off to Wild River State Park for a hike. We stopped in the Visitor Center where a lovely woman helped us figure out the best hike for the amount of time that we had. When you stop at the Visitor Center, make sure to walk out the back and take in the views of the St. Croix River. There is also a lot of interactive experiences for the kids to learn about the park.

    a picture of the sign at the entrance to Wild River State Park in Minnesota

    The park offers over 30 miles of hiking trails. There is a paved 3-mile trail that links the trail center, visitor center, picnic area, and campground. In the winter, they offer cross-country ski trails and snowshoeing.

    We wrapped up the day at The Northern Tavern & Grill. Obviously, we were so hungry after our hike at Wild River State Park! The Rueben with house smoked corned beef melts in your mouth and their skin-on fries are amazing. And guess what? We ran into the couple that we sat next to at breakfast! It was such a perfect small town moment and reminded me of when I lived in Nisswa, Minnesota.

    For more Best Small Towns in Minnesota, see my Taylors Falls blog post.

    Life is short, never stop searching for What Stirs Your Soul. ❤️

    ©Tracy Blowers

  • Goulding’s Lodge & Tours – Monument Valley

    Goulding’s Lodge & Tours – Monument Valley

    Do you remember this spot from the Forrest Gump movie? There have been many movies filmed in Monument Valley which makes for fun trivia when road tripping through!

    Best place to stay in Monument Valley, Arizona

    Speaking of movies, staying at Goulding’s Lodge in Monument Valley on the Arizona/Utah border, feels like you’re on a set. The lodge is located approximately five miles from the Monument Valley Tribal Park Visitor Center, which allows you to get up close and personal with the monuments. Plus, you can set up exclusive tours right at the lodge or drive the 17-mile Tribal Park Loop on your own. This iconic view!!!

    view of monument valley

    Goulding’s offers a variety of lodging options, including spacious rooms, suites, stand-alone villas, and a campground/RV park. Amenities include the onsite Stagecoach Restaurant, Grocery Store, Laundromat, and Gas Station. We loved the convenience of having everything we needed so close. Some rooms are dog friendly, and we loved that each unit has its own door. It makes it so much easier when traveling with the dogs. The views of the monuments are incredible; both sunrise and sunset were spectacular. There is easy access to hiking right out your door and not to mention all the onsite attractions. There is so much to do and see at the lodge and beyond.

    a picture of a hotel at monument valley

    Sunrise views from our room.

    Things to do in Monument Valley

    The dogs loved the trails and hiking around the Goulding’s property. Other onsite attractions include the Goulding’s Museum, Gift Shop, Earth Spirit Theater, Navajo Culture, and history, including “John Wayne’s Cabin” filled with movie memorabilia. 

    a dog looking at monument valley

    You have to try the traditional fry-bread at the Stagecoach Restaurant! Mouthwatering.

    a picture of fry bread

    Monument Valley is magical. This was our second time visiting, the first time we just drove through and this time we stayed a couple of nights. I didn’t want to leave. Here are more incredible views…

    Check out my Southwest Utah and Monument Valley blog post from a few years ago for more places to see: https://tracyseesstuff.com/2020/03/08/monument-valley-southern-utah/

    Life is short, never stop searching for what stirs your soul. ❤️

    ©Tracy Blowers

  • Taylors Falls, Minnesota

    Taylors Falls, Minnesota

    Best Small Towns in Minnesota

    We’re exploring Minnesota looking for a new home! Summer is winding down but there’s still plenty of warm weather days to get out and enjoy the season. Taylors Falls is popular day/road trip from the Twin Cities. We’ve been to Taylors Falls, Minnesota a few times but this time, we are seeing the area with new eyes thinking of a move. Below is a fun day itinerary!

    Interstate State Park, Minnesota signage

    We made it to Interstate State Park in the morning before the park got too busy (which I always recommend).

    First on the list, checking out this very unique natural attraction.

    The Glacial Potholes! Did you know there are over 200 potholes and one is the deepest explored in the world? I love this short 1/2 mile trail because you can see so much in short time. There are beautiful overlooks with breathtaking views of the St. Croix River.

    The St. Croix River has been designated a National Wild and Scenic Riverway, giving it special environmental protection.

    There are 4 miles of trails to explore at the park. The trails are pretty rugged with lots of steps. You can also rock climb! There was an REI class going on while we were there. REI offers many helpful outdoor classes, events, and adventures.

    rock climbers at Interstate State Park in Minnesota

    Or take a boat tour on the Taylors Falls Queen. The offer 45 or 80 minutes excursions. See more details on their website here: https://www.taylorsfallsboat.com/boat-tours/daily-excursion/

    Picture of the Taylors Falls Queen and canoes on the St. Croix River

    After our hike, we stopped at Juneberry Cafe for some watermelon. I love their healthy, quick, and fresh options.

    This snack was perfect to get us back on the road driving the St. Croix Scenic Byway to Marine on the St. Croix for lunch.

    Places to eat in Marine on the St. Croix

    Such a cute town! The General Store has everything that you need from clothes to a deli. There’s also a yummy coffee shop. We had lunch at Brookside Bar and Grill. The nachos were so good!! They layer the cheese between the chips not just on top. It’s a huge portion! The patio in the back is so cozy and is dog-friendly.

    Of course we needed dessert. Nita Mae’s Scoop is adorable. You can get over 24 flavors of soft-serve ice cream! It is the perfect treat.

    Make sure to stop at Franconia Sculpture Park too. We didn’t this trip but have in the past and they offer such cool exhibits.

    For other best small towns in Minnesota, see my Afton, Minnesota, blog post.

    Life is short, never stop searching for What Stirs Your Soul. ❤️

    ©Tracy Blowers

  • Afton, Minnesota

    Afton, Minnesota

    Best Small Towns in Minnesota

    Historic Afton, Minnesota, is home to Afton State Park on the beautiful St. Croix River and is only 45 minutes from the Twin Cities. This summer, we’ve been exploring Minnesota in search of our new home base. We sold our house in 2020 and have been renting due to the crazy housing market and because we weren’t sure where we wanted to land. It’s been a fun summer visiting new cities and returning to our favorites. By doing so, we have a renewed appreciation for where we grew up. Minnesota is filled with incredible small towns, history, restaurants, nature, state-regional-and national parks, and endless recreation.

    Picture of Welcome to Historic Afton sign.

    Best Restaurants in Afton, Minnesota

    We started our day in Afton at the Lumberyard Pub. We sat at the bar to take in the open air (see pic below) and loved the atmosphere and excellent service from the bartender. The house-made chips and french onion dip are crazy good! The summer salad was fresh and bright and a perfect companion to the chips and dips. Terry loved his burger. Yes, I know you’re shocked he had a burger. 😉

    *Note: you can call ahead from your boat and pick up your food curbside to-go.

    The next stop was Selma’s Ice Cream Parlor. You can’t go to Afton and not stop at Selma’s! They offer so many unique flavors and we enjoyed the nostalgic candy for sale. *Tip: walk along the river while eating your ice cream.

    Afton State Park

    After fueling up, we headed to Afton State Park for a hike. The park offers 20 miles of trails including a variety of habitats and walking the old railroad bed. Three bridges remain from the line that once ran along the river to Stillwater. The river views from the bridges, bluffs, and lookouts are beautiful! Especially surrounded by all the wild flowers.

    “Grand oaks and delicate prairie flowers grace the rugged, rolling landscape of this park. Trails pass through remnant and restored prairies, wind down deep ravines, and rise up to the grassy ridgetops and bluffs overlooking the scenic St. Croix River. The trails are perfect for hikers, horseback riders and cross-country skiers. The park offers visitors a swimming beach, backpack campsites and a visitor center with interpretive displays.” – Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

    View of the St. Croix River from Afton State Park

    Did you know that Afton State Park has goats?! They brought the goats in for prescribed-grazing of their 42 acres. We visited in June so I’m not sure if they are still there but make sure to keep an eye out for them.

    We didn’t have the dogs with us on this trip but the state parks are dog-friendly.

    Girl jumping in the air at Afton State Park

    Add Afton to your Minnesota day trip list!

    Another fun spot to explore and camp close to the Twin Cities is Whitetail Woods Regional Park. The camper cabins are amazing!

    Life is short, never stop searching for What Stirs Your Soul. ❤️

    ©Tracy Blowers

  • Capitol Reef National Park – Utah

    Capitol Reef National Park – Utah

    Capitol Reef National Park

    Celebrate National Park Week in April and explore a new park! Capitol Reef National Park surrounds a 100-mile-long “wrinkle in the earth” known as the Waterpocket Fold and is located in south-central Utah. It is part of Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks, including Arches, Zion, Canyonlands, and Zion. If you love to escape the crowds, this park is for you!

    Top Things To Do – Capitol Reef National Park

    Get homemade pies and cinnamon rolls at the Gifford Homestead!! The pie is homemade from fruit grown in the orchards. The green orchards among the red rocks are so beautiful. Get there early because the pie goes fast! It’s the best pie I’ve ever tasted. So fresh and delicious! Our favorite flavor was the strawberry rhubarb.

    After pie, explore the Historic Fruita District. There are historic buildings, a visitor center, campground, and many hikes and trails. Eight families lived in the Fruita District until 1969 (Capitol Reef became a National Park in 1971) and lived completely off the land including the orchards and drinking unfiltered water from the Fremont River. There have been people living in this area for thousands of years as you will see by the petroglyphs below and they believe the first Latter Day Saints settler in this specific area was around 1879. At that time it was known as Junction and mail was delivered to the Fremont Cottonwood tree (“mail tree”), which still stands today.

    Scenic Byway 24

    Drive Scenic Byway 24 – This is the main road that runs through the park and the views are breathtaking. Some of the top sights along this route are Panorama Point, Sunset Point, and Goosenecks Overlook.

    See the Petroglyphs carved by the Fremont Culture in the 300-1300 Common Era. The more you look, the more you will see.

    We stayed at Rim Rock Inn located in Torrey, Utah at the entrance to the park. It’s a great location! There are regular hotel rooms and individual cabins. We loved the cabins, the view is incredible. The cabins are super spacious with cool antique furniture and are dog-friendly. There is a very good restaurant onsite plus an awesome bar/patio with outdoor patio with live music.

    There’s so much more- we only had one day to visit so this barely scratches the surface. There are a lot of scenic drives and hikes to do in this park. I can’t wait to go back and explore more! 

    While in Southern Utah, another fantastic drive is Cottonwood Canyon Road at Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Read more HERE. Life is short, find what stirs your soul. ❤️

    © What Stirs Your Soul Media

  • Cape Cod, Massachusetts

    Cape Cod, Massachusetts

    Road Tripping through Cape Cod, Massachusetts

    Add Cape Cod to your Vermont road trip! While road tripping through Vermont and Upstate New York, we drove down to Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and stayed for a couple of nights. It was nice exploring during the off-season (we visited in the fall) with fewer people. Of course, it wasn’t as warm, but it was still amazing. Top on my list- visiting the Cape Cod National Seashore and Provincetown.

    Girl with her dog at the Cape Cod National Seashore
    “My life is like a stroll upon the beach, as near the ocean’s edge as I can go.“ —  Henry David Thoreau

    Cape Cod National Seashore – Marconi Beach

    The Cape Cod National Seashore is a must-see. These 40 miles of protected rugged and pristine sandy beaches along the Atlantic Ocean with six swimming beaches and unique lighthouses offer so much to do. You can hang out at the beach, swim, kayak, bike/walk/run the trails, hike the sand dunes, explore historic areas, and more.

    Marconi Beach is gorgeous. The salty air, sand in my toes, dunes, and ocean views made for an unforgettable day.

    Cape Cod National Seashore sand dunes
    ocean view at Cape Cod National Seashore

    Wellfleet, Massachusetts

    There are many quaint villages to choose from with Provincetown being the most popular. We decided to stay in Wellfleet because it was close to Marconi Beach and only minutes from Provincetown. We stayed at Endless Coast, A Boutique Hotel. Endless Coast is dog-friendly and offers a lovely lounge/picnic area in the back of the hotel to hang out. We liked the hotel, but there was a large group staying next to us that were very loud partying late- plus, if you’re on the lower level, it’s pretty noisy with people going up and down the stairs. We left early because this made it difficult to work and rest during our stay. The staff was accommodating to our request.

    We ate at Wicked Oyster and Mac’s Shack. We really loved both and I especially enjoyed the “nester” from Wicked Oyster.

    Wicked Oyster – The Nester

    We visited Uncle Tim’s Bridge. Built in 1783 and listed on the State Historic Register, the bridge crossing Duck Creek connects Hamblen Island to Wellfleet. The island is beautiful, offering trails and beaches to explore. Timothy E. Daniels, known as Uncle Tim, had a retail shop across from the bridge in the 1800s and the bridge still bears his name.

    Uncle Tim's Bridge in Wellfleet, Massachusetts
    Uncle Tim's Bridge in Wellfleet, Massachusetts

    Provincetown, Massachusetts

    It was so fun to walk around Provincetown and see the houses, architecture, shops, and vibe.

    row boats in Provincetown, Massachusetts

    Race Point Beach Provincetown, Massachusetts

    After walking around town, we headed out to Race Point Beach.

    This is another incredible spot to explore and watch for dolphins!

    Race Point Beach Provincetown, Massachusetts

    We grabbed a pizza from Ptown House of Pizza and then headed to the beach. The pizza was fabulous!

    If you’re planning a Vermont fall road trip, click HERE for our favorite stops.

    And make sure to add a couple days to visit the Cape!

    Life is short, keep searching for what stirs your soul. ❤️

    ©What Stirs Your Soul Media

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