Bring a change of clothes.

Serving up an EGGcellent weekend.

Author

Joe Carmack
April 16, 2025

​What do we think—is this fools spring, or the real deal? All I know is the green stuff popping up in my lawn is a very welcomed sight and has me itching to get outside and explore. And apply some weed-and-feed.

Whatever you get up to, we hope you find something here to help make it a surprisingly great weekend.

— Joe & Haley

Your Weekend Forecast

Easter Egg Hunts across the Twin Cities

Courtesy of Thrifty Minnesota

So, who’s trying out this new “Easter marshmallow” trend, thanks to the price of eggs? Personally, tie-dyeing the inside of my mouth doesn’t sound all that appealing. Now that our kids are a bit older, we’re sticking with the Carmack family tradition: letting each of our four boys hide eggs (of the more fiscally responsible plastic variety, of course) for their brothers in the trickiest spots they can find around the house. Never to be outdone by my own hiding skills, obviously. Pro tip: hollow out a few slices of bread and stash an egg in the middle of the loaf.

And if you’re looking to skip the effort altogether, Thrifty Minnesota has put together this awesome list of the best egg hunts around the Twin Cities.

Art & Sound

Thursdays

Kick off Record Store Day early at the final Art & Sound Lounge: Vinyl Edition, where the Walker turns into a cozy listening salon with cocktails, art activities, and a live vinyl set. Free gallery admission Thursday from 5–9 pm—just reserve your spot online!

 

Art in Bloom

4/24 - 4/27

Art in Bloom is a free annual event by the Friends of the Institute, showcasing over 100 floral displays inspired by Mia’s collection, with guided tours and family-friendly activities throughout the museum.

 

Sam Morril: The Errors Tour

4/18

Don’t miss your chance to catch Sam Morril live—one of the sharpest, funniest voices in stand-up today. Grab your tickets now before they’re gone!

 

Totally Rad Vintage Fest

4/19

Totally Rad Vintage Fest returns to Mall of America for its third year! Shop vintage clothing, accessories, and retro finds from a curated lineup of vendors.

For your next date night, wander through glowing chaos at Embracing Fallibility, a neon art exhibition that’s more weirdly tender than you’d expect. You’ll laugh, squint, and maybe argue about what a sculpture is even supposed to be. It’s techy, messy, and kind of beautiful—just like a relationship.

A stone’s throw away, you’ll find Pizza Lucé—a Twin Cities classic that’s been doing its thing since the early ’90s. They’re known for creative specialty pies (plenty of veggie and vegan options too) and a solid lineup of local beers on tap. Try the Baked Potato Pizza—you’ll thank us.

Whoever said not to go chasing waterfalls was a bona fide silly goose. Whether you're planning a full weekend itinerary hiking the backcountry or just have a few hours for an easy-access spot closer to home, we've got a waterfall for every occasion in this week's Up Yonder. So pack a bag, cue up your road trip playlist, and let’s explore five of Minnesota’s best waterfalls.

Nerstrand, MN - 1 hr from MSP

For a quick getaway just an hour south of the Twin Cities, take an easy half-mile hike through quiet, leafy woods leads to this charming little waterfall. After wading in the ankle deep water below the falls to cool off, choose from several scenic routes back to the trailhead, where you'll find a picnic area, playground, and plenty of shade—perfect for a relaxing family outing or a solo nature walk. Check their website for seasonal flooding alerts.

Two Harbors, MN - 3 hrs from MSP

Perhaps Minnesota’s most popular North Shore gem, Gooseberry Falls is famous for its roaring Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls, scenic lava flow views of Lake Superior, and lush forest trails to the Fifth Falls. Enjoy camping, picnicking, and wildlife in a stunning riverside setting. Pairs well with a trip to nearby Castle Danger Brewing.

Minneapolis, MN - 15 mins from downtown

We’ll start right in Minneapolis with Minnehaha Falls, a 53-foot stunner that’s beautiful year-round—majestic in the summer and magical when frozen in winter. It anchors Minnehaha Regional Park, where you can hike scenic trails, rent a bike, catch live music, or grab a patio seat at Sea Salt Eatery (try their new Sandwich Room). Whether you’re local or just passing through, this is a must-see stop right in the city.

Silver Bay, MN - 3.25 hrs from MSP

No gatekeeping here – Tettegouche is our favorite state park, handsdown. To find it’s 63’ tall High Falls (not to be confused with Grand Portage’s, below), take this hike up a tough-but-worth it 2.8 mile hike along the Baptism River. Note: The swing bridge is out, so no crossing above the falls. Cart-in camping on the cliffs of Lake Superior is genuinely incredible, and perfect for families dipping their toes into a more rugged camp experience. Save time to see Palisade Head.

Grand Portage, MN - 4.75 hrs from MSP

To see Minnesota’s tallest waterfall, head up the North Shore all the way to the Canadian border. High Falls plunges an impressive 120 feet along the Pigeon River and is especially stunning during spring runoff, when its volume doubles. The overlook trail is well-maintained and accessible, offering jaw-dropping views of this powerful natural wonder.

⚠️ KNOW BEFORE YOU GO ⚠️

  • You’ll need a vehicle permit to enter any Minnesota state park, and it’s easiest to grab one online ahead of time.

  • Make sure you’ve got good walking shoes (no flip-flops!), water, sunscreen, bug spray, and a snack or two. Cell service can be spotty, so download a park map or pick one up when you arrive.

  • Many parks offer stroller- and wheelchair-friendly trails, and if you're hiking with your pup, keep them leashed and clean up after them.

  • Plus, pack your curiosity, a good playlist, and maybe an extra camera battery—Minnesota’s best waterfalls are calling.

Happy adventuring!