Piñatas & Parades, Planes & Pontoon

Are meteorologists getting worse, or is it just me? No disrespect to the ~1 person in Minnesota actually hit by this week’s tornado—our hearts go out. That said, I’m pretty glad the tornado-apocalypse didn’t happen as forecasted and hope everyone enjoyed the light drizzle we got instead.

-Joe & Haley

Your Weekend Forecast

Breezy Point Aviation Day

5/3

Clear your calendar and prepare for takeoff — Breezy Point Aviation Day is coming in for a landing this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Breezy Point Airport is the place to be for plane fans, car buffs, and anyone who just loves a good excuse to eat free ice cream.

Check out 72+ amazing aircraft, 65+ classic cars, emergency vehicles, and even take a peek inside a Medi-Vac helicopter. FYI — static displays only, no air shows here. Just good vibes, cool rides, and a runway full of fun. Oh, and did we mention everything’s completely free — including lunch?

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This week, we’re highlighting one of Minnesota’s most underrated destinations: Voyageurs National Park. With nearly half of the park covered by shimmering lakes and located right next to the Canadian border, it’s an outdoor lover’s dream that often goes undiscovered. Hopefully, this week’s Up Yonder will change that.

🗺️ Getting There

The drive from Minneapolis to Voyageurs National Park takes about five hours, so it’s perfect for a weekend getaway. Start by making your way to International Falls—this is your last stop for fuel, food, and any last-minute supplies. The town's got a few local spots to check out, so snap a selfie with Smokey Bear while you're at it. Cell service? Forget about it. Embrace the disconnection, it’s part of the magic.

Once you get to the park, boat rentals are your best friend. Whether you bring your own or rent locally, you’ll want to have access to one of the park's many lakes. Rentals range from fishing boats to pontoons and even houseboats if you’re feeling fancy. If you’re into houseboating, make sure you book early—these things fill up fast. Some even come with hot tubs and rooftop slides, so your "weekend on the water" just got an upgrade.

🌌 What to Do

If you’re into boating, the lakes here are perfect for exploring. Start with a kayak or canoe to get off the beaten path. Voyageurs’ waterways are full of hidden coves, beaches, and prime fishing spots. For a more leisurely experience, take a guided boat tour to cruise through the park’s history and stunning scenery without the risk of getting lost (or arguing over which way to go).

For the land lovers out there, don’t miss the Oberholtzer Trail near the Rainy Lake Visitor Center. This easy-to-moderate hike offers great views of the park’s boreal forests and wetlands. And, of course, there’s always the option to chill and soak in the views from a pontoon ride or a houseboat while watching the sunset.

When night falls, it’s time for some serious stargazing. Voyageurs is a Dark Sky Park, meaning you can see the Milky Way in full swing. If you’re lucky, you might even catch the Northern Lights. You can join a ranger-led stargazing tour to learn about the constellations or just lay back and watch the stars fall across the sky.

🏕️ A Few Tips

Voyageurs has camping options to suit every family’s style, but if you want the full park experience, book one of the island campsites. Spots like Kettle Falls Campground and Wooden Frog Campground are popular, each offering a unique stay on the water. Many sites are only accessible by boat, so be ready to paddle out or take a short ride to reach your spot. Permits are required, and it’s smart to reserve your campsite(s) well in advance—especially when visiting during the busy summer months.

Pack light, but don’t skip the essentials like bug spray, sunscreen, a water filter or purification tablets, tent, sleeping bag, and a first aid kit. The weather here can be unpredictable, so bring several thinner layers (like fleece, sweatshirts, and long sleeves) instead of relying on one bulky coat. And of course, don’t forget to brush up on the park’s rules and regulations before you visit.

As always, happy trails!

-Joe

• Westside Cinco de Mayo Festival

• Kentuky Derby Festival

• The Lightning Thief, a Percy Jackson Musical

• MN's Largest Candy Store Opens for Season

• Shakopee Food Truck Fest

• Tour a New Soda shop

PS: If your 2025 plans include buying or selling a home around the Twin Cites… 🙋‍♂️😃