Entrance sign at the American Swedish Institute in Minneapolis
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Visit the American Swedish Institute in Minneapolis

My son is passionate about Sweden. His maternal ancestors immigrated from Sweden many decades ago and setup shop in northern Utah. He’s done numerous school reports on the country and loves to learn more about the culture. That love for Sweden is what drew us to the American Swedish Institute when we were planning a…

Father and son take a selfie from the observation deck of the Mill City Museum's Flour Tower
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Learn About Flour at the Mill City Museum in Minneapolis

Did you know that Minneapolis is home to what was once the world’s largest flour mill? This historic mill now houses the Mill City Museum, which is an engaging, interactive museum with something for all ages. During our visit, there were a few classes on a field trip, and the kids were loving all the…

Explore the Museum of Russian Art in Minneapolis
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Explore the Museum of Russian Art in Minneapolis

Minneapolis is rich with cultures from around the world. During our visit to the city, we explored the Somali, Swedish and Vikings (NFL team) culture. We also got a taste of the Russian culture expressed through art. Just a short ride from downtown Minneapolis is the Museum of Russian Art. It’s one of the places…

Father snaps a selfie with teen son working on animation project at The Bakken Museum
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Engage in the Wonders of The Bakken Museum in Minneapolis

I love hands-on science museums. There’s something fun about challenging your mind to try new things. The Bakken Museum was a favorite stop for my son and I during our visit to Minneapolis. We spent the most time in the first exhibit area we came to. There were so many ways to engage in science-related…

Teen boy standing in front of entrance to Fairly Odd Roller Coaster at Nickelodeon Universe inside Mall of America

Nickelodeon Universe: Theme Park inside the Mall of America

You’ve probably heard of the Mall of America in Minnesota. It’s a mega mall with shopping and food galore. But the main attraction is in the center court. An entire theme park with roller coasters, Merry-Go-Round, a log ride, thrill rides, kiddie rides and more. Nickelodeon Universe is a great place to spend several hours,…

Exterior view of the Courtyard Minneapolis Downtown hotel

Courtyard Minneapolis Downtown – Marriott: Hotel Review with Photos

I find one of the biggest challenges when traveling to a new city is finding the right hotel. You want something that’s clean, comfortable and in a location that works for the sites you want to see. During our visit to Minneapolis, we selected the Courtyard Minneapolis Downtown – Marriott for all those reasons. Courtyard…

father son selfie with the Gjallarhorn at US Bank Stadium, home of the Minnesota Vikings

Tour US Bank Stadium – Home of the Minnesota Vikings

One of my sons is a Vikings fan. Despite their not-so-stellar record, he filled his 2021-2022 Fantasy Football team roster with multiple Vikings players. Sadly, he ended up getting 8th (and last) place in our Family Fantasy Football competition. But that didn’t stop us from touring their home field – US Bank Stadium – during…

Experience the Somali Museum of Minnesota in Minneapolis carltonauts travel tips
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Learn Culture at the Somali Museum of Minnesota

One man has set out to preserve his heritage and culture. Over the years, he’s collected 1,500+ artifacts from Somali culture and heritage that help tell the story of the Somali people. Only a small portion of those artifacts are on display at the Somali Museum of Minnesota in Minneapolis. My son and I are…