Top 5 Reasons to Visit Inver Grove Heights

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Inver Grove Heights

Discover why Inver Grove Heights should be your next destination! From our welcoming hotels to diverse attractions, dining experiences, and proximity to the Twin Cities, there’s so much to explore. Immerse yourself into outdoor adventures and uncover the vibrant charm of Inver Grove Heights! Below are our Top 5 reasons to Visit Inver Grove Heights.

 

1. Attractions

Inver Grove Heights is a haven for entertainment seekers, boasting an array of attractions to enjoy. Experience the thrill of axe throwing at PerpleBunny’s Axe House and bowling at local hotspots like Drkula’s 32 Bowl & Pub, providing exhilarating fun for friends and family alike. Another must-visit destination is Nowhere Entertainment, offering 13 holes of mini-golf, escape rooms, arcade games, and seasonal haunted houses. Just next door is Open Window Theatre; view their upcoming shows by visiting our event calendar. They often sell out for a reason – bringing stories to life in an immersive experience that promises an unforgettable show. Inver Grove Heights is also home to Gertens Garden Center! They are Minnesota’s Destination Garden center. If you’re in a shopping mood or want to take in the wide variety of plants, you will be in awe. Come and experience all the attractions that Inver Grove Heights has to offer!

2. Outdoor Recreation

Hit the trails and embark on scenic nature walks through forests and alongside serene waterscapes, offering glimpses of native wildlife and vibrant foliage. For a refreshing adventure, venture to the banks of the majestic Mississippi River, where riverfront parks offer opportunities for nature walks, biking, riverside relaxation, and dining. Cyclists will delight in the city’s extensive network of biking trails, including the renowned Mississippi River Trail, which offers picturesque routes along the river’s edge, with highlights such as the historic Rock Island Swing Bridge. Whether you’re seeking serenity in nature or thrilling outdoor adventure, Inver Grove Heights has parks and trails for a memorable experience in the beautiful outdoors.

3. Proximity to the Twin Cities

Inver Grove Heights boasts a prime location just minutes away from the vibrant urban hub of the Twin Cities. Situated strategically in the southern suburbs of Minneapolis and St. Paul, this charming city offers residents and visitors the best of both worlds. With convenient access to major highways and public transportation, commuting to downtown Minneapolis or St. Paul is a breeze. Whether it’s catching a game at Target Field, exploring the renowned Mall of America, or enjoying the cultural attractions along the Mississippi River, the Twin Cities’ endless opportunities for entertainment and adventure are within easy reach from Inver Grove Heights. Yet, despite its proximity to urban amenities, Inver Grove Heights retains its own distinct identity, with serene parks, bustling local businesses, and a tight-knit community atmosphere that sets it apart. It’s the perfect balance of suburban tranquility and urban convenience, making Inver Grove Heights an ideal place to visit.

4. Local Dining Scene

From cozy breakfast spots to enticing coffee shops, exotic international flavors, and indulgent Juicy Lucy, Inver Grove Heights offers a culinary journey that tantalizes taste buds and satisfies cravings. Dive into the dining experience with options for dining in, takeout, or enjoying a meal on the patio, and some restaurants offer stunning views of the majestic Mississippi River. And with the exceptional service from our local restaurants, every dining experience is elevated to a whole new level of satisfaction. 

5. Cozy & Affordable Lodging

When planning your visit to Inver Grove Heights, finding a cozy and affordable hotel is easier than you think. Fortunately, our city offers four wonderful hotels that provide comfortable accommodations and convenient amenities at budget-friendly rates. Here are some options to consider: AmericInn Hotel & Suites by Wyndham, Holiday Inn Express, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wynham and Coratel Inn & Suites by Jasper.

Book Your Inver Grove Heights Vacation!

We hope you consider Inver Grove Heights for your next family, couples, or friends’ getaway! Book your stay with us. For more information on trip planning, fill out our contact form to get added to our monthly e-newsletter.

Unique Date Ideas in Inver Grove Heights

By Stacy Brooks

Mix up date night with these creative date ideas in Inver Grove Heights!  Whether you want to learn something new, relax together, or get scared silly, this list features unique experiences for every couple.

Experiences for Date Night

At Perplebunny’s Axe House, an axe master will show you how to throw and then teach you how to play games.  Axe throwing slots are available by the hour on a reservation or walk-in basis.  Be sure to wear close-toed shoes, and keep in mind that you have to be 8 or older to throw.

Perple Bunny's Axe House Inver Grove Heights
Photo Credit: Perple Bunny’s Axe House

At Drkula’s 32 Bowl, check out an engaging new spin on a familiar activity with HyperBowling.  Drkula’s HyperBowling system combines the real world-environment with video game-style technology, as you rack up points by hitting colorful targets on the lanes with your ball.  After the game, grab a round of drinks and share some appetizers at Drac’s Pub.

Drkulas's 32 Bowl
Photo Credit: Drkulas’s 32 Bowl

Unwind with your special someone at Oyespa, a full service Aveda salon and spa.  Couples’ massages can be booked for 30, 60, 90, or 120 minutes, with relaxing add-ons like hot stones and heated bamboo available.  Oyespa also offers color and polish-free manicures and pedicures.  

OYESPA Salon Spa
Photo Credit: OYESPA Salon Spa

 

Foodie Date Night Idea in Inver Grove Heights

Instead of choosing one place to eat, check out a few of Inver Grove Heights’ local restaurants with a progressive dinner.  Start your evening with locally-brewed craft beer and appetizers at Inver Grove Brewing, where the menu features elevated pub fare like duck wings, beer-steamed mussels, and oysters rockefeller.  If you like seafood, check out Mallards or Iwa Sushi for your main course; other tasty options include B-52 Burgers and Brew for gourmet burgers and Los Portales Bar and Grill for traditional Mexican cuisine.  Finish the night by sampling six different flavors with an ice cream flight of mini scoops at Hometown Sweets.

Mallards Restaurant Linguine Pesto Pasta
Photo Credit: Mallards Restaurant

 

Shopping Date Idea in Inver Grove Heights

Revisit your childhoods and discover your sweetheart’s nerdy side at Nerdin’ Out, a shop that specializes in all things nerdy.  Browse the selection of new and vintage comics, collectibles, and toys, and pick up a video game or board game to play together.

Nerdin Out Collectible Toys- date ideas in inver grove heights
Photo Credit: Nerdin Out

 

Book Your Getaway or Staycation 

Book a couple’s getaway to Inver Grove Heights!  Inver Grove Heights hotels offer excellent value and are conveniently located to downtown St. Paul, the Mall of America, Minneapolis, and the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.  Enjoy amenities including complimentary breakfast, free parking, and more.  Book your stay at these Inver Grove Heights hotels today!

 

Stock up for Spring Planting at Gertens in Inver Grove Heights

Gertens Garden Center
By Stacy Brooks
Spring is in the air, which means it’s time to start planting!  Take a trip to Inver Grove Heights to stock up on spring planting supplies from Gertens, Minnesota’s destination garden center that has everything you need to make this season blossom.
Gertens Garden Center items for spring planting
Photo Credit: Gertens Garden Center

Minnesota’s Destination Garden Center- Shop Locally Owned for Spring Planting Supplies

Gertens is a fourth-generation family business that has been supplying customers with high-quality plants and trees since the early 1900s.  Not only does Gertens offer the largest selection of annuals, perennials, and nursery stock in the Twin Cities, they are one of only a handful of garden centers that grows the majority of the plants and trees they sell.  Whether you’re looking for ornamental shrubs, fruit trees, succulents, hanging baskets, rose bushes, or annuals in almost any color, you’ll find it at Gertens.  Since the Gertens retail store is over 40,000 square feet, it’s a one-stop shop for your garden, lawn, and outdoor living needs.  You’ll find gardening supplies and tools, landscaping materials, patio furniture, grills, fire pits, and planters, plus gift items for garden lovers. 
Pansies at Gertens Garden Center
Photo Credit: Gertens Garden Center
Gertens is known for its excellent customer service.  Trees, shrubs, and perennials are warrantied for one year from the date of purchase, and there’s also warranty coverage for roses, houseplants, and annuals.  Customers can take advantage of the Gertens Rewards Program, which includes earning points that can be used on future purchases, warranty tracking, and special offers.

Restaurants Near Gertens

After you’ve stocked up on plants and gardening supplies, grab a bite to eat at these locally-owned Inver Grove Heights restaurants. Mallards focuses on globally-inspired, seafood-based cuisine, from jambalaya to Maryland-style crab cakes to fish tacos.  There’s also a selection of sandwiches and salads.  Check out the brunch menu on Sunday, which features sweet specials like brandy French toast and savory items such as shrimp and grits or lobster quiche.
B-52 Burgers and Brew specializes in over-the-top burgers like the award-winning “Trashy” burger topped with deep-fried pickles and cream cheese and the Truffle Shuffle, which is loaded with pancetta, smoked gouda, mushrooms, roasted red peppers, and truffle aioli.  The menu also includes salads, sandwiches, and ice cream shakes, and burgers can be made with a vegan patty or gluten-free bun by request.
Burger Flight and B52 Burgers + Brew
Photo Credit: B52 Burgers + Brew
Los Portales Bar & Grill serves up a full menu of authentic Mexican food. Known as a quality and relaxing Mexican Bar and Grill with freshly prepared food specials including tacos and other popular Mexican dishes. Los Portales has regular weekend entertainment too including karaoke, live music, and DJs too. Salsa!

Stay in Inver Grove Heights

Inver Grove Heights isn’t just a great place to shop for gardening supplies, it’s also a great place to stay!  Inver Grove Heights hotels offer excellent value and are conveniently located to downtown St. Paul, the Mall of America, Minneapolis, and the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.  Enjoy amenities including complimentary breakfast, free parking, indoor pools, and more.  Book your stay at these Inver Grove Heights hotels today!
HolidayInn Express

Coming Soon: The Living Water presented by Open Window Theatre

Living Water Open Window Theatre

Open Window Theatre is in its 10th season of producing wonderful theatrical performances for the Inver Grove Heights community and visitors. The Living Water is their newest upcoming play, running February 23–March 27 during Lent.

The Living Water is a “modern dramatization of the Biblical stories of the Samaritan Woman, the Blind Beggar, and Lazarus. Originally workshopped under The Scrutinies by the COR Patrons back in March of 2021, ” Open Window will no doubt bring The Living Water to life during this upcoming lent season. Even if you don’t celebrate Lent, come see this wonderful performance that shows reflections of the complexities of the human condition.

Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office. To see all available dates and times, visit their website or the Visit IGH events calendar.

Get Tickets to The Living Water Below

Purchase Tickets

Top 10 Fall Activities in Inver Grove Heights

Pine Bend Bluffs Fall Season Inver Grove Heights

Fall is here, and there are so many things to do and experience in Inver Grove Heights. Our charming town offers a relaxing and cozy feel when staying in one of the four affordable hotels. Need a reason to book a fall trip? Check out the top 10 fall activities to do below!

Vikings U.S. Bank Stadium
Photo Credit: VisitIGH

Catch a Fall Vikings Game at U.S. Bank Stadium

Want to see the Vikings play at home? Choose from one of the four affordable hotels in Inver Grove Heights and book your stay.

Nowhere Escape Room
Photo Credit: Nowhere Escape Room

Experience the Nowhere Haunted House

Get your ticket for the Nowhere Haunted House. Choose your scare level. Options include Sunday lights on a kid-friendly tour, Saturday low-scary, the Nowhere Haunted House Main Halloween Experience, or the Nowhere 18+ nights. Nowhere Haunted House also has escape rooms, minigolf, and an arcade.

Oktoberfest at Mississippi Pub
Photo Credit: Mississippi Pub

Oktoberfest celebration at Mississippi Pub

Celebrate Oktoberfest on Saturday, October 7th, from 3:00–10:30 p.m. at Mississippi Pub. Enjoy authentic German foods, a variety of beers, games, live polka music, stein hoisting, and a best-dressed contest!

Swing Bridge, Inver Grove Heights Minnesota

Biking or Walk the Historic Rock Island Swing Bridge

Rock Island Swing Bridge was built in the 19th century and was used as a toll bridge until 2011. It was reopened for as a historic landmark. Take a bike ride or stroll along this beautiful trail with views of the Mississippi River.

AMC Movie Theater in Inver Grove Heights
Photo Credit: AMC Movie Theaters

Catch a Halloween Movie at AMC Inver Grove 16

It’s the season for spooky and scary movies. Currently playing at the AMC Inver Grove 16 are The Nun 2, Hunted Mansion, Meg 2, Talk to Me, and Christine’s 40th Anniversary. To see showtimes and other movies playing, visit their website.

Fall Golf in Inver Grove Heights

Golf at Inver Wood Golf Course

Grab a group of friends and head over to Inver Woods. This course offers 27 holes and sits on 275 acres of rolling, wooded terrain. The championship course offers 18 challenging holes with features that utilize the area’s natural geography, such as multi-level fairways, multiple tee stations, varied-shaped U.S.G.A. greens, and picturesque par three holes that challenge your golf game as well as your senses.

Bowling at Drkulas
Photo Credit: Drkulas

Bowling at Drakula’s 32 Bowl & Pub

Family fun can be found at Drakula’s 32 Bowl! This family-owned business is a local favorite for its bowling, arcade area, food, and drinks.

Celebrate Fall at Gertens
Photo Credit: Gertens

Gertens Garden Center

This fall, check out Minnesota’s destination garden center. Gertens offers everything you need for your outdoor space, including plants, soil, mulch, gardening supplies, hanging baskets, and more. Plan your trip and enjoy a stroll around their large store with so many options.

Heritage Village Dog Park
Photo Credit: VisitIGH

Heritage Village Dog Park

If you’re traveling with your pup, don’t forget to stop at Heritage Village Dog Park. This park is an off-leash park with areas for both big and small dogs. There is also a large bone to take a cute photo of your dog next to.

B52 Burgers + Brew
Photo Credit: Traveling with the Brunette

Grab a Bite to Eat!

Inver Grove Heights is home to unique dining spots for American, Asian, Italian, Mexican, fast food, or a sweet treat. There is something for everyone. See the full list of options on our Places to Eat page.

Book your fall getaway to Inver Grove Heights! We welcome you to explore our town and all it has to offer.

Fun Fall Weekends in Inver Grove Heights

Swing Bridge, Inver Grove Heights Minnesota

A Fun Fall Weekend is calling your name! Fall is the perfect season to embrace outdoor activities and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. In Inver Grove Heights, there are plenty of options for fun-filled weekends. Whether you’re a biking enthusiast, attending Inver Grove Heights Days, or simply looking to relax on a restaurant patio, this guide will help you make the most of your fall adventures in Inver Grove Heights.

Swing Bridge, Inver Grove Heights Minnesota

Recreational Activities

Explore the scenic Mississippi River Trail by taking a bike ride. This paved riverside trail stretches approximately 13 miles, connecting Inver Grove Heights to neighboring communities. Along the way, admire the picturesque scenery and make a stop at Swing Bridge Park to enjoy the stunning view from the walking pier that extends 680 feet over the Mississippi River.

For those seeking a more challenging biking experience, the newly opened Mountain Bike Trail at Vista Pines Park offers an intermediate-level trail with rollable jumps and berms. It’s a great option for avid cyclists or anyone looking for an exciting biking adventure.

Fall Golf in Inver Grove Heights

If golf is your preferred recreational activity, Arbor Pointe Golf Club and Inver Wood Golf Course are excellent choices. Arbor Pointe Golf Club is a beautifully laid-out Executive 9-hole course located amidst the trees and rolling hills of the Arbor Pointe Residential Development. Inver Wood Golf Course, on the other hand, offers 27 holes spread across 275 acres of wooded terrain. You can choose between the challenging 18-hole championship course or the 9-hole executive course, or play them both! Additionally, Inver Wood Golf Course has a driving range designed to simulate on-course conditions, providing a realistic practice experience. Both courses are open to the public, and you can easily book tee times online.

For a different kind of outdoor activity, try your hand at disc golfing at North Valley Park. The park features an 18-hole disc golf course with beautiful views, hilly areas, and wooded sections. It’s suitable for players of all skill levels, and you can purchase daily or seasonal passes online.

Pine Bend Bluffs
Photo Credit: Visit IGH

Admire Fall Foliage

Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors of fall and head to North Valley Park, one of the 27 parks in Inver Grove Heights. This 58-acre park is filled with wooded areas, providing ample opportunities to witness the stunning autumn hues. You can also make use of the available picnic tables and grills for a delightful autumn picnic.

Another fantastic spot to appreciate fall foliage is Pine Bend Bluffs Scientific and Natural Area. With its 200-foot bluffs, this location offers one of the best views of the Mississippi River in its natural state within the Twin Cities metro area. The hiking trails provide a perfect opportunity to observe fall colors and local wildlife.

Fun Fall Weekend Events

Inver Grove Heights has an exciting lineup of fall events that you won’t want to miss!

Inver Grove Heights Days Car Show
Photo Credit: Inver Grove Heights Days

IGH Days: Celebrate everything Inver Grove Heights has to offer at IGH Days! This community celebration takes place from Wednesday, September 7 to Sunday, September 11, 2022. It’s a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a wide range of activities suitable for families, couples, sports enthusiasts, food lovers, and more. From entertaining events to delicious food options, IGH Days has something for everyone. While many activities are free of charge, some may require an IGH Days button for access.

Oktoberfest at Mississippi Pub
Photo Credit: Mississippi Pub

Don’t miss the 7th Annual Oktoberfest at Mississippi Pub in Inver Grove Heights! This lively event on October 1, 2022, from 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. brings the spirit of Oktoberfest to life. Enjoy delicious German foods, a variety of beers, and live German music all day. Join the fun with competitions like the stein hoisting contest for women, men, and co-ed teams. Dress up in your best dirndl or lederhosen for a chance to win. This family-friendly event is free to attend and celebrates the rich traditions of German culture.

B52 Burgers + Brew Rooftop Pation
Photo Credit: B52 Burgers + Brew

RESTAURANT PATIOS

Take advantage of the lingering warmth by grabbing a seat on one of the local patios and enjoying outdoor dining in the fall. Here’s our Top Seven Patios in Inver Grove Heights.It’s the perfect time to savor the crisp air while indulging in delicious food and drinks. Whether you’re looking for a rooftop patio with panoramic views or a cozy spot surrounded by nature, Inver Grove Heights has an array of options to suit every taste. Soak up the sunshine and relish the autumn ambiance while treating yourself to a memorable dining experience on one of the charming fall patios in the area. Grab a seat at a local patio while the weather is still warm.

Business Profile: Mississippi Pub Pavilion

Mississippi Pub Outdoor Event Space
By Stacy Brooks

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With stellar views of the Mississippi River, refreshing drinks, and delicious eats, the Mississippi Pub has long been an ideal place to relax and celebrate in Inver Grove Heights.  Now there’s a new way to enjoy the space, thanks to a permanent pavilion that accommodates up to 250 guests.

The 4,000 square foot event space officially opened in August 2022, and it has already hosted the restaurant’s popular Oktoberfest celebration, bean bag leagues, and other events.

Mississippi Pub Pavilion

“For Oktoberfest, we used to rent a large tent and put it in the parking lot,” says Mississippi Pub owner Melissa Harms.  “The blueprint of the pavilion mimicked the tent, so we’re holding Oktoberfest there as well—we did that last year for the first year.  We’ve always had bean bag leagues in the space where the pavilion is, and now it’s become a more multi-use space.”

Importantly, the pavilion allows Mississippi Pub to host events without worrying about inclement weather.  “You can plan on your event happening no matter what,” says Harms.  “We’ve installed heat, and we have side panels that can go up.”

In addition to events hosted by Mississippi Pub, like bean bag leagues and the annual Oake on the Water concert, the pavilion is available for private rentals.  Harms notes that they’ve already hosted fundraisers, retirement parties, birthday parties, and corporate events.  “It’s really  allowed us to branch out,” she says.  “Before, weather was the determining factor.”

Mississippi Pub Thursday Bags Night

Mississippi Pub provides in-house catering for private rentals, with a range of options for various types of events and price points.  “We’ve done anything from passed hors d’oeuvres to build-your-own burger bars, the sky’s the limit!  We have a lot of experience, and a really strong team as well,” says Harms.

“As an example, right now we’re working with a customer who wants passed hors d’oeuvres and hot and cold food stations—it’s a more formal corporate event.  We also just did an appetizer buffet for a nonprofit organization’s annual public meeting.”

If you’d like to book the pavilion for your next celebration, an inquiry form is available on the Mississippi Pub website.  Simply provide the details about the size of your event, preferred date and time, budget, and any additional requests, and the Mississippi Pub team will help you create a memorable event.  Keep an eye on the website and Mississippi Pub Facebook page for information about upcoming public events. 

Mississippi Pub
4455 66th Street E
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
651-455-4975
mississippipub.com

Summer Events in Inver Grove Heights

Inver Grove Heights Days Car Show
By Stacy Brooks

Save the date for a summer full of fun events in and near Inver Grove Heights!  Enjoy the great outdoors with family-friendly activities, take spin into the past with a hangar dance or classic car show, sample food truck eats, and more.

Upcoming Summer Events in Inver Grove Heights

Fishing at Simley Island Park in Inver Grove Heights
Photo Credit: Inver Grove Heights Parks & Rec

Huck Finn Fishing Derby 

Saturday, June 10, 2023, 9:00am-11:00am

The annual youth fishing tournament at Simley Island Park will feature prizes for the largest fish, smallest fish, and most fish caught, plus all participants receive a fishing goodie bag.  Register in advance online.  

Hangar Dance at Commemorative Air Force Minnesota Wing
Photo Credit: Commemorative Air Force Minnesota Wing

CAF MN Wing Spring Hangar Dance 

Saturday, June 10, 2023

Party like it’s the 1940s at the Commemorative Air Force Minnesota Wing’s Spring Hangar Dance.  Enjoy big band music, a free swing dance lesson, aircraft tours, and food, and wear WWII-era clothes for a chance to win a prize.

Terrific Tuesdays 

Tuesdays, June 20-August 1, 2023, 10:30am

Enjoy free family-friendly entertainment at Oakwood Park.  This year’s schedule includes concerts, storytelling, and educational programming.  Stick around after the concert to explore the park’s trails or play at the playground.

Back to the 50s Weekend
Photo Credit: MSRA Back to the 50s Weekend

Back to the 50s Weekend

Friday, June 23-Sunday, June 25, 2023

Over 10,000 classic cars will converge on the Minnesota State Fairgrounds for a retro fun-filled weekend.  In addition to automobiles, the event includes music, a swap meet, craft fair, and model car contest.

Dive-In Movie 

Friday, June 23, 2023, 5:00pm-7:30pm

Combine an evening of swimming with a screening of Pixar’s Luca at the VMCC.  The movie will be screened on the water park pool deck, and popcorn will be provided.

Movie in the Park 

Friday, July 7, 2023, 8:00pm

Watch The Secret Life of Pets 2 under the stars at Oakwood Park.  Before the movie starts at dusk, there will be pre-movie entertainment, a bounce house, games, and ice cream available for purchase.

Food Truck Days Inver Grove Heights
Photo Credit: Visit Inver Grove Heights

Food Truck Days 

July 20 and August 17, 2023, 4:30pm-7:00pm

Savor dinner or a snack from several local food truck vendors at Rich Valley Athletic Complex.  There will also be music, entertainment, and family activities.

Giant Slide at Minnesota State Fair
Photo Credit: Minnesota State Fair

Minnesota State Fair 

Thursday, August 24-Monday, September 4, 2023

Deep-fried food, entertainment, livestock, shopping, rides—Inver Grove Heights is closer than you think to the Great Minnesota Get-Together!  Whether you want to rock out at a Grandstand show or try the zaniest new foods, it’s sure to be a fun time.

Inver Grove Heights Days Car Show
Photo Credit: Inver Grove Heights Days

IGH Days

Wednesday, September 6-Sunday, September 10, 2023

The annual celebration of all things Inver Grove Heights includes a parade, family activities, and so much more.  Check out the IGH Days website for the most up-to-date information.

In addition to summertime events, save the date for a stay in Inver Grove Heights!  Inver Grove Heights hotels offer excellent value and are conveniently located to downtown St. Paul, the Mall of America, Minneapolis, and the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.  Enjoy amenities including complimentary breakfast, free parking, pools, and more.  Book your stay at these Inver Grove Heights hotels today!

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Hit the Links in Inver Grove Heights

Inver Wood Golf Course
By Stacy Brooks

Hit the links in Inver Grove Heights!  Inver Grove Heights is a great golf destination for golfers of all types and abilities: you can play 9 or 18 holes at beautiful local courses, go disc golfing, or try out foot golf.  Afterwards, celebrate your victory (or console yourself after a defeat) with a delicious meal at one of Inver Grove Heights’ dozens of local restaurants.

Disc Golf, North Valley Park
Photo Credit: Visit IGH

Disc Golf at North Valley Park

With scenic views and four different skill level-based routes, the Disc Golf Course at North Valley Park is fun for beginning and experienced disc golfers alike.  The 18-hole course includes wooded areas and a pond.  

A pass is required to use the course from May through September and can be purchased online.  Daily passes are $5 and season passes are $30 for residents, $40 for non-residents.

After you finish your disc golf game, sample international cuisine at one of Inver Grove Heights’ local restaurants.  iPho2 serves Vietnamese specialties including pho, banh mi, noodle salads, and bubble tea.  Taqueria El Girasol is great for Mexican food like birria tacos, burritos, and enchiladas.  At LW’s Bierstube, feast on German fare such as bratwurst and weiner schnitzel, plus American pub favorites.

Inver Wood Golf Course
Photo Credit: Visit IGH

Golf and Foot Golf at Inver Wood Golf Course

Inver Wood Golf Course’s 27 holes are spread across a scenic setting, with rolling, wooded terrain.  The practice center has a unique design, with two fairways, greens, and bunkers to provide an “on course” feel to the driving range concept.  Tee times can be reserved online.

Foot Golf at Inver Wood Golf Course
Photo Credit: Star Tribune

Inver Wood also offers foot golf, a soccer/golf hybrid that’s a fun outdoor activity for golfers and non-golfers alike.  The game is played on the golf course, and players kick a soccer ball from the starting tee to the hole.  You can opt to play an 18-hole or 9-hole round.

Inver Wood is conveniently located to Iwa Sushi, which is a local favorite for top-notch sushi and hibachi meals.  If you’re looking for a quick bite, Oyevida Lifestyle Cafe offers healthful sandwiches, salads, and flatbread pizzas.

Arbor Pointe Golf Club
Photo Credit: Arbor Pointe Golf Club

Executive Golf Course at Arbor Pointe Golf Club 

One of the top short courses in Minnesota, the 9-hole course at Arbor Pointe Golf Club is a convenient way to play a challenging round of golf in a beautiful natural setting (maybe even spot some wildlife!)  The par 31 course features water on seven holes and extensive bunkering.   Tee times can be reserved online. 

Enjoy a post-game round of drinks at Inver Grove Brewing.  In addition to local craft beer, there’s a full bar and a food menu with elevated pub fare including brick oven Neapolitan-style pizzas, burgers, pasta, and more.

This golf season, plan a getaway to Inver Grove Heights!  Inver Grove Heights hotels offer excellent value and are conveniently located to downtown St. Paul, the Mall of America, Minneapolis, and the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.  Enjoy amenities including complimentary breakfast, free parking, indoor pools, and more.  Book your stay at these Inver Grove Heights hotels today!

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Inver Grove Heights

Los Portales Molcajate
By Stacy Brooks

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Inver Grove Heights! On May 5, Cinco de Mayo commemorates Mexico’s 1862 victory in the Battle of Puebla.  Today, it’s an opportunity for people of all backgrounds to enjoy delicious eats from Mexican-owned restaurants, shop local for Mexican products, and experience live Mexican music and dancing.

Locally-owned Mexican restaurants in Inver Grove Heights 

Los Portales Molcajate
Photo Credit: Los Portales

Los Portales Bar & Grill is hosting a Cinco de Mayo celebration with a live mariachi band, karaoke, and folk dancing.  Savor traditional Mexican specialties including tacos, pozole (pork and hominy soup), and guacamole.  Enjoy drinks like strawberry and mango margaritas, palomas, and tequila, or try some refreshing, non-alcoholic agua frescas (blended fruit drinks).  Festivities start at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, May 5, 2023, and additional details are available via the restaurant’s Facebook page.  

5816 Blaine Avenue E, Inver Grove Heights; 651-200-3349; losportalesmn.com

Rincon Mexicano Restaurant
Photo Credit: Rincon Mexicano Restaurant

Rincon Mexicano serves fresh, made-to-order tacos and Mexican street food.  Create your own taco platter with meats including asada (steak), barbacoa (slow-cooked beef with herbs), and tinga (marinated shredded chicken), or try one of the vegetarian options like veggie chorizo or soy-based meat.  Other specialities include elote (corn on the cob), burritos, and quesadillas.  Save room for dessert—the churros and flan are delicious.  Pair your meal with a traditional drink like horchata or try a Mexican soda. 

3064 65th Street E, Inver Grove Heights; 651-457-2755; rinconmexicanorestaurant.com

La Dulceria Piñatas y Mas
Photo Credit: La Dulceria Piñatas y Mas

La Dulceria Piñatas y Mas stocks all the sweets you need to host your own Cinco de Mayo celebration.  There’s a huge selection of classic Mexican hard candies, gummies, chocolate bars, and sweets.  Buy a few pieces of each to create your own assortment, or purchase candy by the pound to fill a piñata.  The shop sells traditional star-shaped piñatas, plus kid-friendly cartoon character-shaped piñatas.  Adults can pick out fun alcohol-themed piñatas that double as party decor.

3058 65th Street E, Inver Grove Heights; 651-274-2339; ladulceriashop.com

Taqueria El Girasol
Photo Credit: Taqueria El Girasol

Taqueria El Girasol is perfect for a quick bite, with tacos, tortas, burritos, and more.  Be sure to try one of the birria dishes, made with perfectly slow-cooked, seasoned meat.  In addition to traditional birria tacos, the menu includes a massive cheese-stuffed quesabirria.  Taqueria El Girasol also offers kid’s meals—choose from a kid-sized burrito, taco combo, or quesadilla.

6550 Cahill Avenue S, Inver Grove Heights; 651-457-2652; taqueria-el-girasol.square.site

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo on St. Paul’s West Side

Inver Grove Heights is closer than you think to St. Paul’s West Side, which is home to a vibrant Mexican community.  The District del Sol cultural district is committed to preserving the neighborhood’s Latino roots, and you’ll find several Mexican restaurants, grocery stores, and bakeries.  

Wrap up your Cinco de Mayo celebration with a stay in Inver Grove Heights!  Inver Grove Heights hotels offer excellent value and are conveniently located to downtown St. Paul, the Mall of America, Minneapolis, and the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.  Enjoy amenities including complimentary breakfast, free parking, indoor pools, and more.  Book your stay at these Inver Grove Heights hotels today!