🥾A Big Boot, Major Goat & Blue Chicken

A whole mess over Messi. Normally you can snag decent tickets to a MN United soccer match for ~$30. The anticipated arrival of Lionel Messi for this weekend’s game against Inter Miami in St Paul has 10x’d that price. The real kicker? There’s no guarantee he’ll even show.

-Joe & Haley

Your Weekend Forecast

Sculpture Garden Art Fair

5/10 - 5/11

Celebrate Mother's Day weekend with a laid-back stroll through one of the city’s most scenic spots, where art, music, and spring vibes come together in the best way. This outdoor art fair features work from local makers—including sculptures, handmade jewelry, and pieces inspired by the natural world. In the Botanical Market, you’ll find fresh bouquets by florist Makayla Thompson and artists whose work incorporates or celebrates botanical themes—perfect for that last-minute or bonus gift for mom.

Live music sets the tone throughout the day with a mix of pop, indie, R&B, k-pop, orchestral, folk, and blues. And if you get hungry, you’re in luck: food trucks will be serving up Egyptian dishes, Indian street food, boba tea, and sweet treats like macarons. Whether you're browsing, gifting, or just soaking it all in, it's a refreshing way to spend the weekend.

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This weekend, let’s take a quick road trip to Winona, MN (technically this one’s down yonder—but let’s not split hairs). Along with soaking up the perfect weather, you’ll get scenic drives, great food, bluff hikes, river views, and just enough weird to keep things interesting.

Although there are a few different highways that will get you to Winona from the Twin Cities, I recommend taking Hwy 10 out of St. Paul to Highway 61, which meanders alongside the Mississippi River, offering scenic views and charming towns along the way.

Your first stop is Hastings, MN, just 20 minutes from St. Paul. Here, Froth & Cork is a must-visit coffee shop. Housed in a historic building, it boasts a cozy atmosphere with multiple seating areas, both indoors and out. Patrons rave about their coffee flights, allowing you to sample a variety of brews, and their breakfast offerings are equally delightful.

After your caffeine fix, head to Spring Lake Regional Park for a refreshing morning hike. The park offers scenic trails that wind through lush landscapes, providing a peaceful retreat and a chance to stretch your legs before continuing your journey.

Next, drive about 30 minutes to Red Wing, MN. For lunch, Kelly’s Tap House is a local favorite, known for its extensive beer selection and a menu featuring everything from award-winning wings to hearty burgers. The patio offers stunning views of the Mississippi River, making it a perfect spot to relax and dine.

Don't miss the iconic giant Red Wing boot at the Red Wing Shoe Company Museum—a two-story-tall tribute to the town's shoemaking heritage. It's a fun photo opportunity and a nod to the area's history.

If you're up for more exploration, the Hay Creek Day-Use Area is just a short drive away. This spot features remnants of an old stone house and a serene knee-high creek that's perfect for wading, especially for kids and dogs. The surrounding trails offer a peaceful nature walk amidst picturesque settings.

Continue your journey to Lake City, approximately 25 minutes south. Ohuta Park and Beach is a highlight here, featuring a sandy beach, splash pad, and playgrounds, making it ideal for families. The adjacent Riverwalk trail offers scenic views along Lake Pepin.

For a sweet treat or a casual meal, Big Bear Pizzeria is a popular choice. Known for its delicious pizzas with a unique crust, the restaurant also serves breakfast and hand-dipped ice cream. The outdoor courtyard is dog-friendly, providing a relaxed dining experience.

Before leaving Lake City, stop by Rustic Coffeehouse for a final caffeine boost. This charming café offers fair-trade coffee and a selection of fresh pastries. The cozy, rustic décor and friendly atmosphere make it a perfect spot to unwind.

One final jaunt downriver brings us to our destination: Winona, about 45 minutes away. If you’re planning a multi-day trip, skip the standard hotel chain and check out one of the town’s charming bed and breakfasts such as the Carriage House Inn.

There’s plenty to see and do here, so we’ll share a few suggestions—pick the ones that sound best for your crew.

• Sugar Loaf Bluff is a 2.4-mile hike that leads to one of the area’s most iconic pinnacles, offering panoramic views of Winona, the Mississippi River, and the surrounding bluffs.

• Dinner at The Boat House—hello, riverfront patio and fresh seafood!

• Peter’s Biergarten is a great spot for a local pint, and you might even catch some live music if you time it right.

• Coffee and breakfast at Blue Heron Coffeehouse, a beloved local gem known for its fresh, seasonal fare and cozy atmosphere.

• Minnesota Marine Art Museum—even if you’re “not an art person,” the river-themed collection and surprise Van Gogh tend to win people over.

• Great River Bluffs State Park is just outside of town. Bring snacks, take it easy, and soak up the sweeping views—this place is all about the scenery.

• If the weather’s nice, rent a kayak or paddleboard on Lake Winona, or enjoy a laid-back walk along the lakeshore. It’s especially perfect for a golden-hour stroll as the sun sets over the water.

Happy trails!

-Joe

• Model Railroad Show

• Bears & Brews @ MN Zoo

• MN’s Largest Candy Store Opens for Season

• Free Cricket for Beginners Class
  

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