Following on the heels of National Geographic's top 10
list of summer places from around the globe, which put Minneapolis in fourth place, CNN recently published a first-person
account from local journalist Chris Welsch about what makes the area such a draw.
He writes, "Yes, winters here tend to be on the chilly side of things, but the place has so much more to offer than a slick spot for ice fishers to set up their shanties."
A thriving arts community and a bike-friendly, foodie atmosphere make for an unbeatable combination.
For proof, Welsch names numerous local cultural institutions, including the
Guthrie Theater,
First Avenue, and the
Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, among others.
Also, at restaurants such as the
Aster Caf� in Minneapolis, outdoor seating is at a premium. He says: "Since winters here are so long, people--including yours truly--tend to come down with what I would call the worst cases of cabin fever known to man. When spring finally does arrive, it's like the gun's been fired and gates opened at the racetrack."