One $50 gas gift card will be awarded every Friday throughout the summer. (July 3, July 10, July 17, July 24, July 31, August 7, August 14, August 21, August 28, September 4, September 11, September 18)
Winners will be selected at random from eligible entries.
Winners will be notified by email and their gas gift card will be mailed to the address provided during signup.
Limit one prize per person during the promotion period.
Whether you’re planning a road trip, weekend escape, or exploring closer to home, Visit Inver Grove Heights is your starting point for summer adventure.
Good luck, happy travels and we hope you add Inver Grove Heights to you Summer bucketlist!
Disclaimer:
This giveaway is not sponsored, endorsed, or administered by Facebook, nor is Facebook associated with this promotion in any way.
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!
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.
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.
Photo Credit: Mississippi Pub
Oktoberfest celebration at Mississippi Pub
Celebrate Oktoberfest on Saturday, October 4th, from 3:00–10:00 p.m. at Mississippi Pub. Enjoy authentic German foods, a variety of beers, games, live polka music, stein hoisting, and a best-dressed contest!
Biking or Walk the Historic Rock Island Swing Bridge
Looking for your next scenic escape? Head to the Rock Island Swing Bridge, a stunning recreational pier offering breathtaking views of the mighty Mississippi River. Whether you’re biking or taking a leisurely stroll, the Mississippi River Greenway trails lead you through the river valley, peaceful prairies, and scenic overlooks.
And now, from 6–10 PM, the bridge comes alive with 5-minute LED light shows every 15 minutes. It’s the perfect way to end your day — relaxing by the river as vibrant colors dance across the night sky. Don’t miss this magical experience!
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 Freakier Friday, The Conjuring: Last Rites, Jaws 50th Anniversary and more. To see showtimes and other movies playing, visit their website.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Fall is the perfect time to Visit Inver Grove Heights, where magical family adventures await! Here are 5 ways to discover fall in Inver Grove Heights!
Haunted House at Nowhere Entertainment!
Ready for a thrill? Embrace the chills at Nowhere Entertainment’s haunted house! This locally owned haunt offers a range of experiences: lights-on tours, low-scare nights, Halloween-themed fun, and even 18+ nights for those seeking a spookier adventure. Not into haunted houses? No worries! Enjoy 13 holes of mini golf, a vast selection of arcade games, and three different escape rooms.
Photo Credit: Nowhere Entertainment
Fall Sweet Treat from Hometown Sweets!
After your spine-chilling fun, treat yourself to a sweet indulgence at Hometown Sweets. This locally owned spot serves up delicious ice cream, fall-inspired popcorn, and a variety of chocolates that will make your taste buds dance. Don’t miss out on this delightful stop during your visit!
Trails to EXPLORE
Want to see stunning views of the Mississippi River framed by fall foliage? Check out our top trails for breathtaking sights and memorable experiences. Pine Bend Scientific and Natural Area is a trailhead of the Mississippi River Greenway Trail, offering bike or walk access to the ridge’s prairies with spectacular views. Although the Rock Island Swing Bridge is closed this fall, the trailhead remains open for biking along the Mississippi River Regional Trails, with historic plaques still available for viewing.
Must Try Dining Spots!
Inver Grove Heights is also home to fantastic dining spots! Enjoy stunning views of the Mississippi River from Mississippi Pub or Overboard Bar & Grill. For a fun, family-friendly brewery with games, visit Inver Grove Brewing. And be sure to include Cahill Diner, a charming 50’s-inspired eatery, on your fall itinerary for a delicious experience!
Cozy Accommodations
Need a place to stay for your fall getaway? For a dog-friendly option, check out Microtel Inn & Suites. If you’re looking for hotels with pools and hot tubs, Holiday Inn Express or AmericInn has you covered. All hotels provide a complimentary breakfast to start your day right. Visit our website to book your stay and explore more amenities. We can’t wait to make Inver Grove Heights your top destination for a memorable fall family vacation!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
Time to spring break in Inver Grove Heights! With budget-friendly accommodations, kid-friendly restaurants, and activities the whole family will enjoy, here’s your guide to fun spring break getaway.
DAY 1
Photo Credit: Inver Grove Heights Park & Recreation
Start off your spring break by splashing around at the VMCC Aquatic Center. The indoor water park has two large water slides, splash features, a dumping bucket, and a floating log crossing. There’s also a pool available for recreational swimming and a dive pool with regular and high dive boards. Day passes are available for open swimming. Check out the open swim schedule here.
Next, zoom across the ice at the VMCC Ice Arena. Day passes are available for ice skating, and skate rentals are offered for a small fee. Find the open skate schedule here.
Photo Credit: Visit IGH
Wrap up the day with dinner at a local restaurant that has something tasty for the entire family. Los Portales Mexican Restaurant serves up traditional Mexican favorites including street tacos, tortas, enchiladas, and fajitas. At Iwa Sushi, enjoy sushi and hibachi meals, with kid-sized junior hibachi meals available for kids under 10. Inver Grove Brewing has a family-friendly taproom with high chairs and carrier holders, kids’ games, and a kids’ menu with pizza, chicken tenders, burgers, and pasta. Adults can enjoy locally-brewed craft beer and a menu of elevated pub fare.
DAY 2
Photo Credit: Cahill Diner
Fuel up for another day of fun with breakfast at Cahill Diner, which has retro 1950s-inspired decor and serves breakfast all day. Specialties include the apple fritter French toast, Cajun omelet, and Tex Mex hash browns.
Photo Credit: AMC Movie Theaters
Catch a movie at AMC Inver Grove 16 and enjoy recliner seating, a full food and beverage menu, and special discounts on Tuesdays and matinee screenings.
Photo credit: Visit IGH
Swing by Hometown Sweets for ice cream, flavored popcorn, and bulk candy. Can’t decide which of the 16 flavors of ice cream to order? Get the ice cream flight and try six!
Photo Credit: Drkulas’s 32 Bowl
Try a new spin on bowling at Drkula’s 32 Bowl, which has a state-of-the-art Hyperbowling system that adds a video game-style element to the classic game. There are also automatic bumpers and ramps to make bowling accessible to bowlers of all ages and abilities.
Go out for a crowd-pleasing dinner at a local pizza spot. Dominick’s Pizza serves both the classics and creative pies like a gyro pizza, plus homemade chocolate chip cookies baked fresh daily. Serving up family recipes that date back over 50 years, Carbone’s Pizzeria menu is full of family favorites for everyone to enjoy, including pizza, hot hoagies, wings, soup and salads. Turitto’s Pizza & Subs has a menu with tasty thin crust pizzas, submarine sandwiches, and pasta.
With over a dozen interactive attractions, 500 stores, and 50 restaurants, it’s easy to spend a day (or more!) at the Mall of America.
This winter, book 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. Warm up with amenities including complimentary breakfast, free parking, indoor pools, and more.Book your stay at these Inver Grove Heights hotels today!
Whether you’re looking for tasty eats and drinks or cultural activities, here are the best St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations in Inver Grove Heights and the Twin Cities.
St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations in Inver Grove Heights
Toast St. Patrick’s Day with a pint at Celts Pub, an Irish-inspired neighborhood bar. There’s a full food menu with Irish pub specialties including bangers and mash, shepherd’s pie, and fish and chips.
Celebrate with locally-brewed craft beer at Inver Grove Brewing, where the lineup includes over a dozen beers brewed on-site, plus hard seltzer, cider, and guest taps from other local breweries. Pair your beer with a house-made brick oven pizza, sandwich, burger, or a round of appetizers from the full food menu, and check the Taproom’s Facebook Page for St. Patrick’s Day specials.
Locals love Jersey’s Bar & Grill for the fun atmosphere, drink specials, and award-winning burgers. Try a cheese-stuffed Jersey Juicy, or visit Jersey’s Facebook page for St. Patrick’s Day specials.
If your ideal St. Patrick’s Day includes a great selection of beer and gourmet burgers, stop by B-52 Burgers and Brew. It’s also a great spot to watch the game, and in addition to burgers the menu includes appetizers, salads, tacos, and sandwiches.
Saturday, March 11 and Sunday, March 12, 2023 Get in the St. Patrick’s Day spirit with traditional Irish dance. Local studio Corda Mor Irish Dance will be providing free performances in the Mall of America’s Huntington Bank Rotunda at noon, 2:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m., and 6:00 p.m. After enjoying the performance, check out the mall’s dozens of attractions, 500 stores, and 50 dining options.
Friday, March 17, 2023 A tradition since 1967, St. Paul’s annual St. Patrick’s Day parade will start at noon on Friday, March 17. The parade follows the original route through downtown St. Paul, beginning at Rice Park and ending at Mears Park.
Friday, March 17, 2023, 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. After the St. Patrick’s Day parade in St. Paul, head to CHS Field for a celebration featuring live music by The Serfs and Northerly Gales, Irish dancers, and food and beer specials. Tickets are $5 in advance and $10 at the door, with free admission for children under 5. All proceeds benefit the parade and local charities.
Friday, March 17, 2023, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Held at St. Paul’s Landmark Center, this St. Patrick’s Day celebration focuses on Irish culture, with Irish dance, Celtic vendors, authentic cuisine, pipe bands, and children’s crafts and entertainment. Admission is $9 for adults and $7 for children.
Sunday, March 19, 2023, 11 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Keep the St. Patrick’s Day spirit going with a day of Irish dance performances at St. Paul’s Landmark Center. Admission is $9 for adults and $7 for children.
This winter, book 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. Warm up with amenities including complimentary breakfast, free parking, indoor pools, and more.Book your stay at these Inver Grove Heights hotels today!
This winter, embrace chilly temperatures in Inver Grove Heights! This is your guide to 6 Family-Friendly Outdoor Winter Activities in Inver Grove Heights. From sledding to snowshoeing, learning survival skills to navigating an ice maze, these outdoor family-friendly activities are fun for kids of all ages (and their grownups, too).
EcoElsa Outdoor Programs
Enjoy the snow with an educational twist: EcoElsa outdoor programs from Inver Grove Heights Parks and Recreation offer a fun, interactive way for kids and families to learn about STEM and local wildlife. Upcoming programs include a family Winter Night Hike on February 24, 2023 (ages 5 and up), family snowshoeing on February 25, 2023 (ages 6 and up). Learn more and pre-register online here.
Photo Credit: Mael Balland
Snowshoeing
Explore the great outdoors on snowshoes at a local nature preserve. At the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge you can borrow adult and child-sized snowshoes for free at the Bloomington visitor center and check out over 50 miles of trails. For a backcountry experience without leaving the metro, visit Pine Bend Bluff Scientific and Natural Area, which is an undeveloped, serene spot for wildlife watching or simply appreciating the snow-covered landscape.
Hiking
The Mississippi River Greenway is plowed throughout the winter, making it perfect for a cold-weather hike. Bring along your furry friends, too—on-leash dogs are welcome. Stop at the Swing Bridge Park trailhead for a snowy family selfie at the end of the Rock Island Swing Bridge, a walking pier that juts hundreds of feet over the Mississippi River.
Photo Credit: Inver Grove Heights
Sledding
The whole family will love zooming down the sledding hill at South Valley Park. The large hill has a long, gentle slope and is close to the parking lot, and the park also offers trails, a playground, and a skating rink.
Photo Credit: Inver Grove Heights
Ice skating
Glide across the ice at one of Inver Grove Heights’ outdoor rinks, which are open through February 20, 2023 (weather permitting). Rinks are lit after dark, and warming houses and portable bathrooms are available. The rinks at Skyview, Oakwood, Groveland, and South Valley Parks have warming houses; there’s also a rink at Southern Lakes Park without a warming house.
Photo Credit: Minnesota Ice Maze
Minnesota Ice Maze
Have fun getting lost at the Minnesota Ice Maze at Viking Lakes. With nearly half a mile of twists and turns made from over a million pounds of ice, the maze is fully lit with colorful lights. Kids can win a prize by completing the interactive scavenger hunt, and there are also ice thrones, fire pits, and hot beverages and treats available for purchase. The ice maze is open daily through February 19, 2023 and tickets can be purchased online.
This winter, book 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. Warm up with amenities including complimentary breakfast, free parking, indoor pools, and more.Book your stay at these Inver Grove Heights hotels today!
Stay warm and have some fun with these family-friendly winter indoor activities in Inver Grove Heights! Whether you want to burn off some energy, visit a museum, or enjoy a relaxing staycation, Inver Grove Heights has something for kids of all ages.
Indoor Activities in Inver Grove Heights
Photo Credit: Inver Grove Heights Park & Recreation
Visit the VMCC Aquatic Center’s indoor water park, where kids can zoom down water slides, play in the splash features, and scramble across a floating log crossing. The Aquatic Center also has a pool and diving area.
Photo Credit: HyperBowling
Check out Drkula’s 32 Bowlfor a fun new twist on bowling: HyperBowling! The game combines bowling with video game-style technology, and in addition to knocking down pins, you can take aim at colorful targets. HyperBowling makes bowling exciting for everyone, regardless of ability level. Drkula’s also offers automatic bumpers and bowling ramps for young bowlers.
Photo Credit: Perple Bunny’s Axe House
Try something new with your teens at Perple Bunny’s Axe House. An axe master will teach you how to throw axes and play games—whatever your experience level or physical fitness, everyone will have a good time! Note that you have to be at least 14 years old to throw.
Photo Credit: AMC Movie Theaters
Watch a movie in style at AMC Inver Grove 16, which offers recliner seating and tasty snacks like flatbread pizzas, nachos, and churros. Enjoy discounted prices during matinees and all day Tuesday.
Photo Credit: Commemorative Air Force Minnesota Wing
Get up close to WWII aircraft kept in flying condition at the Commemorative Air Force Minnesota Wing. In addition to aircraft, the museum is home to motor vehicles and WWII artifacts, and admission is free of charge.
Photo Credit: Holiday Inn Express
Treat your family to a staycation at one of Inver Grove Heights’ hotels, and grab a pizza from a pizzeria. The AmericInn Hotel and Suites has a pool and game room, the Holiday Inn Express offers a pool, and the Microtel Inn and Suites and Coratel Inn and Suites have great rates and complimentary breakfast.
Indoor Activities in the Twin Cities
Photo Credit: Children’s Theater Company
Attend a show at the Children’s Theatre Company, which stages entertaining, engaging productions that the whole family will enjoy. Current and upcoming shows include holiday classic Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (running through January 8, 2023) and Locomotion (January 24-March 5, 2023) which explores how poetry can bring you closer to others and yourself.
Photo Credit: Minnesota Children’s Museum
Visit the Minnesota Children’s Museum, a kid-centered space that utilizes the power of play to spark learning. The three floors of exhibits include a sensory space for babies and toddlers, a pretend town, and an “underwater” shipwreck. Special exhibits include the storybook-themed The Amazing Castle (through January 8, 2023) and Framed: Step into Art, where you can explore three-dimensional versions of well-known paintings (January 21-May 7, 2023).
Photo Credit: Science Museum of Minnesota
Make learning fun at the Science Museum of Minnesota. From dinosaurs and fossils to a real Mississippi River towboat and sports-themed experiments, exhibits are an interactive way to learn about science, math, and technology. Through January 22, 2023, check out the Nature All Around Us exhibit to discover the hidden natural worlds and ecosystems in cities and towns.
Photo Credit: Como Park Zoo
Travel to the tropics without leaving Minnesota at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, where the indoor Tropical Encounters trail immerses visitors in the sights and sounds of rainforest plants and animals. Other indoor spaces include the Zoo’s large cats, African hoofed stock, primate, and aquatic buildings, plus the Convervatory’s Sunken Garden and Palm Dome.
Photo Credit: Twin City Model Railroad Museum
Discover a miniature world at the Twin City Model Railroad Museum, where kids will be entranced by the detailed layout complete with trains, towns, and more. Check out the Night Trains exhibit Saturday evenings through February 25, 2023, which features low lighting, special lighted model trains, and winter decorations.
Photo Credit: Sea Life Aquarium
Walk through an underwater ocean tunnel and watch thousands of tropical fish, sharks, and sting rays at SEA LIFE Aquarium, located in the Mall of America. The aquarium also features a kid-friendly touchpool inspired by the Pacific Northwest, rainforest exhibit, and jellyfish.
If you love shopping, plan a getaway to Inver Grove Heights! With local retailers and easy access to the Mall of America, Twin Cities Premium Outlets, and other area shopping destinations, Inver Grove Heights is an ideal base for browsing for gifts for everyone on your list and something special for yourself. Here’s your itinerary for the perfect weekend of shopping in and around Inver Grove Heights.
Kick off your weekend by perusing local retailers in Inver Grove Heights. Gertens is best known as one of the region’s top garden centers, and it’s one of the best spots in the Twin Cities to find houseplants, gardening supplies, and lawn items. But that’s only the beginning—Gertens also has an extensive selection of gifts such as candles, mugs, puzzles, bath products, home decor, and Minnesota and garden-themed apparel. Throughout the holiday season, browse the indoor and outdoor Christmas decor, kids’ gift items, and holiday games.
Photo Credit: Gertens
Another unique local shopping option is NerdinOut, which specializes in all things nerdy, including new and vintage comics, collectibles, toys, and video, card, and board games. Whether you’re looking for superheroes, horror, Star Wars, or another fandom-themed item, you’re sure to find a memorable gift or something fun for yourself.
Photo Credit: Nerdin Out
Pick up some sweet and savory treats at Hometown Sweets, a locally-owned ice cream, popcorn, and candy shop. Choose from gourmet popcorn in classic flavors like cheese or caramel, or try something offbeat like fruity pebbles or dill pickle popcorn. The shop also stocks locally made small-batch chocolates, nostalgic candies, gift items, and artisan dog treats.
Photo credit: Visit IGH
Stop by Liz’s Tienda Vaquera for high-quality Western wear for the whole family. The shop offers an impressive selection of shirts, jeans, and boots in men’s, women’s, and children’s sizes, as well as accessories like belts and hats.
Photo Credit: Visit IGH
After exploring Inver Grove Heights’ local retailers, head to the Mall of America, which is only 10 miles from Inver Grove Heights. With over 520 stores and 50 restaurants, plan to spend the day taking it all in. The mall is also home to attractions for all ages, including the Nickelodeon Universe indoor theme park, SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium, two mini golf courses, and FlyOver America, a flight simulation experience. Some shops double as entertainment, like the immersive, two-level M&M’s store and the LEGO Store, which features play tables and larger-than-life LEGO models.
Photo Credit: Mall of America®
Wrap up your weekend of shopping at Twin Cities Premium Outlets, which offers over 85 stores with savings of up to 65% off. Find men’s, women’s, and children’s apparel and accessories from upscale brands like Adidas, Calvin Klein, Coach, Kate Spade, Saks Off 5th, and Nike.
Photo Credit: Twin Cities Premium Outlets
In the mood for more? Inver Grove Heights is also a convenient base for exploring St. Paul’s Grand Avenue, which offers a small town vibe in an urban setting, as well as Woodbury Lakes in Woodbury, an outdoor shopping center, and Edina’s Southdale Center, the country’s first indoor regional shopping mall.
If you like deals, book a stay in Inver Grove Heights! Inver Grove Heights hotels offer excellent value and are conveniently located to the Mall of America, Twin Cities Premium Outlets, St. Paul, Minneapolis, and the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Some hotels offer free shuttle service to the Mall of America, and other amenities include complimentary breakfast, free parking, and more.
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