How To Visit Joshua Tree National Park

The open desert skies, the abundant wildlife, and, of course, the namesake Joshua tree all inspire wonderment and admiration in those who visit Joshua Tree National Park.

The Joshua tree, part of the Agave family, is found in a certain part of the Mojave Desert. Its unique, twisted shape makes it a distinct part of the landscape — and makes Joshua Tree one of the most spectacular national parks in the United States. Almost 3 million people visit Joshua Tree National Park each year to see these unique plants, camp under the stars, and hike through massive boulders.

Here’s everything you need to know before planning a visit to this wonderful place.

Where Is Joshua Tree National Park?

Joshua Tree National Park is surrounded by mountains and considered part of the Mojave Desert, which encompasses parts of southeastern California, southern Nevada, and western Arizona. The park contains 792,623 acres of boulders, cacti, plants, and animals.

Joshua Tree National Park is about 2 hours from Los Angeles, 2.5 hours from San Diego, and an hour from the Arizona border. Palm Springs, the closest city to the park, is about a 50-minute drive from the main entrance.

How To Get To Joshua Tree National Park

The remoteness of Joshua Tree National Park is a large part of its appeal and beauty, yet it can also make the park more challenging to visit. However, a visit is certainly worth the effort!

Getting To Joshua Tree By Plane

Even for those living in California, flying might be the easiest way to get to Joshua Tree National Park. The closest airport to Joshua Tree is Palm Springs International Airport (PSP), which offers direct flights from many nearby cities and states. However, not all airlines fly to Palm Springs, and not all of them offer direct flights. In some cases, it might be easier and cheaper to fly into Los Angeles, San Diego, or Las Vegas.

The routes from Los Angeles to Joshua Tree, San Diego to Joshua Tree, and Las Vegas to Joshua Tree are all lovely in their own way. For example, even though the Las Vegas-to-Joshua Tree route is about 50 miles longer than the others, the drive cuts straight through the Mojave Desert, a quiet place to enjoy the open road.

Getting To Joshua Tree By Bus

Unfortunately, there is limited public transportation available in the desert. There used to be a Roadrunner Shuttle that took visitors to the park, but the two-year pilot program ceased operations in the fall of 2019.

The Morongo Basin Transit Authority provides buses to the area near Joshua Tree National Park. Along the Twentynine Palms neighborhood route, Utah Trail & Sunset is the closest stop to the park, but it’s still miles from the park’s main features. If you’re flying into California to visit Joshua Tree National Park, it’s better to rent a vehicle for your trip.

Joshua Tree National Park in California. — lunamarina / Shutterstock

Getting To Joshua Tree By Car

The best way to get to Joshua Tree is by car, which provides the most flexibility and convenience. Joshua Tree National Park is covered under the America the Beautiful National Parks and Recreational Lands Senior Pass, so if you’ve already purchased one, you can enter for free. If not, you can purchase one to gain access to more than 2,000 national parks and sites. Otherwise, the entrance fee is $30 for seven-day access.

Joshua Tree National Park has three entrances: the West, North, and South Entrances. For those driving in from Los Angeles and San Diego, the West Entrance — off of Highway 62 — is the most convenient. However, the West Entrance is extremely busy on weekends and holidays. To avoid long lines, visit during the week (consider starting on Thursday if you’re planning on staying for the weekend) or use one of the other entrances.

The roads within the national park are paved and well groomed, so there is little chance of getting lost. Many animals become active at night — like coyotes — so it’s important to drive carefully at dusk, dawn, and nighttime to avoid hitting protected wildlife. Due to construction or other activities, some roads may be closed. Stay in the know by checking out the alerts from the National Park Service before you begin your trip.

The Best Time To Visit Joshua Tree National Park

With so many hikes, climbs, and stargazing opportunities, you’ll need at least two full days to enjoy this national park.

Although each season at Joshua Tree National Park has its own pros and cons, generally the best time to visit is October through May. Both fall and spring have milder temperatures and great hiking and rock-climbing conditions. If you’re a fan of wildflowers, visit between February and May. Temperatures peak in July and August, when the park can exceed 100 degrees. It is recommended that visitors avoid hiking during these times.

What To Do At Joshua Tree National Park

Each season in Joshua Tree National Park offers something different for travelers. Camping, hiking, rock climbing, biking, bird-watching, horseback riding, backpacking, stargazing, and photography are just a few of the things visitors can enjoy at Joshua Tree.

Here are some of our favorite things to do in the area.

Go Hiking And Rock Climbing

One of the best ways to enjoy the unique natural landscape of Joshua Tree National Park is to explore it on your own two feet. The park’s many trails range from short walks to challenging hikes that shouldn’t be attempted during hot weather. Popular hiking trails include the Skull Rock Loop, the mile-long Hidden Valley Loop, and the Lost Palms Oasis Trail.

Rock climbing is another popular activity at Joshua Tree National Park. Thanks to the amazing large boulders throughout the area, there are more than 8,000 routes for climbing.

The Cholla Cactus Garden in California. — agap / Shutterstock

Marvel At The Cholla Cactus Garden

Although it’s a short loop trail that should only take about 20 to 30 minutes to complete, the Cholla Cactus Garden Nature Trail offers views of a unique type of cactus. Cholla (pronounced CHOY-ah) cacti are very sharp, so make sure not to brush up against any during your walk. It’s best to visit the garden as the sun starts to dip toward the horizon, making the yellow-orange cacti glow. It’s also a great spot for wildflower viewing — a variety of flowers bloom there throughout the year.

View The Milky Way

Since Phoenix (the closest city to the east) is 300 miles away, the eastern side of Joshua Tree National Park is one of the best areas in the country for viewing the stars and the Milky Way. Although many areas in Joshua Tree are great places to stargaze, the most popular spots include Skull Rock, Arch Rock, and the Ocotillo Patch. For a guided stargazing experience, visit Sky’s the Limit Observatory, where you can look through telescopes, crash a star party, and even participate in the annual Night Sky Festival in September.

Visit The Town Of Joshua Tree

If you’ve made the trek out to Joshua Tree National Park, don’t forget to stop by the Western-style town of Joshua Tree, California. Although you won’t find any fast-food chains, you’ll enjoy unique local establishments. You can pick up a local brew at Joshua Tree Coffee Company, relax at Instant Karma Yoga across the street, and enjoy live music at the Joshua Tree Saloon.

What To Know Before You Go

There are no shops or restaurants within the national park, so make sure to bring food and water with you. Generally, a gallon of water per person per day should be enough. However, if you’re active (for example, if you’re a hiker, climber, or cyclist), bring at least 2 gallons of water per day. There is a water fill-up station near the West Entrance.

In the desert, it’s important to be sun-conscious — wear sunscreen, bring a wide-brimmed hat, and avoid dark-colored clothing. Wear sturdy shoes for uneven surfaces and bring layers for cold evenings. Also, be aware that there is no signal within the park. GPS and cell-phone service are not reliable, so make sure to bring a map.

Tents set up in a campground at Joshua Tree National Park. — Tracie Hall / Flickr (CC BY-SA .20)

Where To Stay In Joshua Tree National Park

The closest towns to Joshua Tree National Park are Yucca Valley, California; Joshua Tree; and Twentynine Palms, California. In any of these places, you’ll be able to find vacation rental homes and hotels. In recent years, rental homes have become very popular, and you can find many artistic and creative homes, Airstreams, and RVs to rent for your visit.

However, if you don’t want the hassle of driving in and out of the park and want to enjoy the incredible natural landscape, then by all means, set up a tent! There are eight campgrounds and several hundred campsites within Joshua Tree National Park. Half of the campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, including Belle Campground, Hidden Valley Campground, White Tank Campground, and Ryan Campground. If you would rather book your campsite in advance, you can reserve one at Black Rock Campground, Indian Cove Campground, Cottonwood Campground, or Jumbo Rocks Campground up to six months in advance.

Most of the campsites come with picnic tables, fire grates, and pit toilets. Black Rock and Cottonwood are the only two campsites that have water and flush toilets. It’s important to note that some campsites close during the summer months of June through August.

If you’re traveling in an RV, there are two main spots to camp: Joshua Tree Lake RV and Campground and Twentynine Palm RV Resort. Both have full hook-ups plus facilities and community events.

17 Airlines That Offer Free (Or Nearly Free) Hotels During Your Stopover

Gone are the days of sleeping on cold airport chairs and using my carry-on bag as a pillow during an overnight connection! These days, some airlines will pay for my hotel room — and more! — if I’m subject to a long layover.

In fact, some airlines, like Air Astana, offer free (or nearly free) opportunities to stop over in their home country (Kazakhstan, in Air Astana’s case) as a way to tease visitors to return for a longer trip. Other airlines offer a free hotel night when you have a long layover in their hub city, but they don’t broadcast this benefit.

On international flights, stopovers are defined as being in a transiting airport for many hours — usually six or eight, depending on your class of flight — between your departing city and final destination.

Here are 17 airlines that offer free — or nearly free — hotels when you have a long layover. You might actually plan a long layover to take advantage of some of these airline’s stopover programs — which usually come with other deals — as an opportunity to break up your long itinerary, acclimate gradually to your new time zone, and dip your toe into a new country.

1. Almaty Or Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan, Via Air Astana

When flying from Southeast Asia to Europe, I always check Air Astana, Kazakhstan’s national airline. Twice I’ve taken advantage of their stopover holiday promotion, which allows you to stay one or two nights at a local hotel for a rock-bottom price that includes breakfast and private round-trip airport taxi.

A few years ago, I spent two nights and a day in Almaty, the City of Apples. I visited an art museum, toured the president’s residential palace, rode a cable car to the top of Kok-Tobe Hill, and finished my day at a traditional Russian spa. Instead of power sightseeing, you could spend a day golfing, trekking, or mountain biking at your own expense.

More recently, I spent one night in Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan’s capital. Since it was January and literally freezing, I decided to spend only one night. Although I arrived at my four-star hotel at 9 p.m. and was picked up the next day at noon, I enjoyed the hotel’s Olympic-size pool, jacuzzi, and two saunas (open until a generous 11 p.m.) and full buffet breakfast (complete with a custom omelet station) — plus personal round-trip airport transfers — for $1. Yes, one U.S. dollar!

2. Seoul Via Asiana Airlines

Asiana Airline passengers can book a downtown Seoul hotel for $150 USD for two people ($120 USD for a solo traveler) and receive round-trip airport transfer by airport bus, a gift card worth 10,000 won ($8 USD) for duty-free shopping at Incheon International Airport, a 10 percent discount at a specified airport restaurant, and a free pass to the Matina airport lounge (worth $33 USD).

Or choose to discover Incheon, South Korea’s new “smart city,” for $120 to $250 depending on hotel class, day of the week, and optional additional tours. Enjoy a one-day Incheon City Tour pass, round-trip airport transfer by bus, a 10,000 won airport duty-free shopping voucher, and free entry to the Matina airport lounge. It doesn’t matter which airline you are flying out on, but your onward flight must depart within 72 hours of your arrival in Seoul.

Or enjoy a luxury stay at Hotel Paradise or Hotel Art Paradiso and enjoy a swimming pool, fitness center, half-price use of the sauna, three meals at the cafe, a 70,000 won (approximately $60 USD) casino betting coupon, free admission to the Paradise art galleries and exhibits, and other discounts to Paradise attractions. Packages start at 220,000 won ($185 USD) for double occupancy. Note that Hotel Art Paradiso is adult-only.

Information on all three experiences is available here. Navigate between the “Asiana Stop,” “Discover Incheon,” and “Stopover in Paradise” tabs to find the deal you’re interested in.

3. Abu Dhabi Via Etihad

Fly Etihad and enjoy two free nights in Abu Dhabi at one of 15 three- and four-star hotels, most of which offer pools and fitness centers. When en route from Tokyo to London, I broke up my trip with a tour of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the world’s largest mosques, and a visit to the gold souk (market), a truly opulent experience! You can also book free bus service from the airport on Etihad’s web site.

4. Doha Via Qatar Airways

Explore Doha for up to four nights to break up your Qatar Airways flight. Stay at one of 19 four- and five-star hotels for as little as $23 USD a night. Enjoy spas, pools, fitness rooms, and other luxuries. Those participating in Discover Qatar stopovers can apply for free transit visas.

An Asiana Airline plane. — Markus Mainka / Shutterstock

5. Singapore Via Singapore Airlines

For as little as 41 Singapore dollars ($30 USD), Singapore Airlines passengers can enjoy a night on the town while staying in one of nearly 40 hotels. For an additional 22 SGD, partake in any of 20 attractions. Stroll through the Gardens by the Bay, soar over the city with a cable car Skypass, float down the Singapore River in a bumboat, and more! One-way airport transfer is included.

6. Istanbul Via Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines passengers get a free night in a four-star hotel when transiting for 20 or more hours through Istanbul. Tickets must be round-trip with both inbound and outbound flights through Istanbul and departure and destination cities must be on Turkish Airlines’ designated list. Costs for visas and airport transfers are not included. You can transit through either Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW).

7. Montreal, Toronto, Or Vancouver Via Air Canada

Fly through Montreal, Toronto, or Vancouver on Air Canada and get a free or discounted hotel room for a night. No round trip necessary, but you can take advantage of this stopover promotion both coming and going — stay in one city on the way out and another on your way home! Note that to be eligible for this deal, your itinerary must include a city outside Canada or the U.S.

8. Beijing, Chengdu, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Tianjin, And Chongqing Via Air China

Break up your trip with a free night at a hotel, breakfast, and round-trip airport transfer, compliments of Air China. Your transit time can be as little as six hours, providing a nice break for a shower and nap, or as long as 24 hours for domestic flights or 30 hours for international flights, giving you time to catch a glimpse of whatever city you’re in.

9. Shanghai, Xi’an, And Beijing Via China Eastern Airlines Or Shanghai Airlines

Travel from Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), New York (JFK), Chicago (ORD), Honolulu (HNL), Vancouver (YVR), or Toronto (YYZ) and transit through Shanghai, Xi’An, or Beijing for more than 12 hours to be eligible for a free hotel room whenever an earlier flight to your final destination is not available.

10. Guangzhou, Beijing, Urumqi, Wuhan, Shenzhen Via China Southern Airlines

Spend the night in Guangzhou or Beijing, enjoy breakfast and airport transfers, and receive up to 144 hours (or six days) of visa-free entry to China! Free accommodations and hotel/airport transfers are also available to China Southern Airlines passengers who transit through Urumqi, Wuhan, or Shenzhen.

11. Dubai Via Emirates

If your connection in Dubai is more than eight hours (six hours for business class passengers), and that’s the best routing available, Emirates will treat you to a hotel room, restaurant meal, airport transport, and visa assistance.

A China Eastern Airlines plane. — TonyV3112 / Shutterstock

12. Addis Ababa Via Ethiopian Airlines

Enjoy a free night in a hotel, round-trip transportation, and visa assistance from Ethiopian Airlines if your only connection option leaves you stuck in the Addis Ababa airport for eight hours or longer.

13. Bahrain Via Gulf Air

Enjoy a leisurely evening in Bahrain, plus breakfast and private transportation, starting at 47 Bahraini dinars ($125 USD). Gulf Air offers several stopover tour packages for up to three nights, which sometimes include tours. And all waive the visa fees!

But if your transit time is more than seven hours and less than 24 with no other connecting options, Gulf Air will provide you with a free or discounted hotel room depending on the cost of your airline ticket.

14. Xi’an, Haikou, Guangzhou, Lanzhou, Dalian, Hangzhou, Shanghai Pudong, Chongqing, Shenzhen, Chengdu, Tianjin, And Changsha Via Hainan Airlines

If you are transiting through one of these Chinese cities on Hainan Airlines during the night for more than six hours, avail yourself of their free hotel room and airport shuttle service. Meals and visa fees are not included.

15. Amman Via Royal Jordanian

An overnight stopover of at least eight hours in Amman will get you a free hotel room, a meal, and ground transportation as long as you are not flying on a discounted ticket or able to book an earlier flight to your destination. Contact the airline directly for booking instructions.

16. Colombo Via Sri Lankan Airlines

If you are flying through Colombo with an eight-hour layover and no earlier connection options, contact your nearest Sri Lankan Air ticket office to secure a voucher for a free hotel room. Note that your round-trip ticket must cost at least $700 USD (or $350 for a one-way ticket).

17. Xiamen, China, Via Xiamen Airlines

Spend a free night in a hotel in Xiamen if your connection is six hours or longer and there’s no earlier option. Breakfast is included, but not round-trip transportation or visa fees.

A Gulf Air plane. — Mehdi Photos / Shutterstock

Pro Tips For Planning A Stopover

Ask whether your luggage will be checked through to your final destination or if you’ll need to claim it in the transiting city. If it will be checked through, be sure to pack a separate carry-on bag with clothes that are appropriate for the weather in your transiting city. Be sure to carry on a bathing suit or gym clothes, too, as many of the transiting hotels have pools and fitness centers!

Book early. Most airlines require at least three days to process and confirm a hotel reservation.

Print all reservation details. Your phone might not work in the transiting airport, and it’s best to have your confirmation handy in a format that can be handled by anyone. Someone assisting you might need to walk into a back room to consult a supervisor. (Not all airline personnel know about these stopover programs.)

Read the fine print. Some airlines have strict rules regarding your ticket’s fare class; others have blackout periods or require a round-trip itinerary.

Finally, check the visa requirements for visiting your transiting city.

Don’t have time to spend the night but want to make the most of your transit time? Read up on these seven surprising things you can do during a long layover.

The Smithsonian: 12 Can’t-Miss Sights For History Lovers

Washington, D.C., offers so much to see and do that incorporating a visit to the Smithsonian might seem overwhelming. After all, the Smithsonian isn’t a single museum. Rather, it’s a collection of 19 museums, galleries, gardens, and a zoo, making it the world’s largest museum complex.

How do you know which exhibits to focus on when you visit the capital city? If you’re a history lover, you can start with the following iconic exhibits.

Pro Tip: Nicknamed America’s Treasure Chest, the Smithsonian’s collections include more than 156 million artifacts and works of art. However, only a small percentage — about 2 percent — is on display at any given time. So be sure to visit the Smithsonian’s website before you go to ensure that the object you wish to see is on display (or to select an alternative from that era in history).

James Smithson’s Crypt

Smithsonian Institution Building (The Castle)

Begin your adventures at the Smithsonian with a stop at the Smithsonian Institution Building, also known as the Smithsonian Castle. Not only does the red sandstone building house the Smithsonian Visitor Center, but it is also the final resting place of James Smithson. An English chemist and lifelong learner who never married or had children, Smithson left his estate to a nation he never visited to form what would become the Smithsonian Institution.

The Treaties between the U.S. and American Indian Nations. — Sage Scott / EverydayWanderer.com

Treaties Between The United States And American Indian Nations

National Museum Of The American Indian

For centuries before the first European set foot on North America, nearly 600 distinct Native American tribes called this land home. Over the years, as settlers usurped Native American lands and chipped away at their way of life, more than 370 treaties were ratified between Europeans and Native Americans.

This exhibit at the National Museum of the American Indian features a rotating display of eight treaties. To preserve the fragile documents for future generations, each treaty can only be displayed for about six months before being returned to the archives.

As you visit the museum, be sure to take note of the unique structure. Not only did a team of Native Americans design the five-story museum, but Native Americans also manage its daily operations. From the seasonal Native American-inspired menu in the museum’s cafe to the displays throughout the museum, the experience is quite different from those offered by museums of European and Euro-American culture.

Star-Spangled Banner (Great Garrison Flag)

National Museum Of American History

Chances are you’ve heard how the “broad stripes and bright stars” of the American flag raised above Fort McHenry during the War of 1812 inspired Francis Scott Key to pen our national anthem. But have you seen the original? On display at the National Museum of American History, the 15-star banner is missing at least eight feet of fabric due to deterioration and patriotic Americans who snipped pieces as keepsakes.

Declaration Of Sentiments Table

National Museum Of American History

The Declaration of Independence states that each of us possesses the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. But the truth is that American women were treated as second-class citizens for many years. Fed up with the inequality, Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott drafted a declaration of rights specifically for American women in 1848. And the table where the Declaration of Sentiments was signed is on display at the Smithsonian.

The microphone FDR used for his Fireside Chats. — Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)

‘Fireside Chat’ Microphone

National Museum Of American History

Before social media, the Internet, and television shaped communication in America, there was radio. And it was through this “new” medium that President Franklin D. Roosevelt addressed the American public as he led the nation through some of its biggest challenges, including the Great Depression and World War II. The 32nd president used the NBC microphone on display at the Smithsonian to broadcast 30 “fireside chats” during his presidency.

Entrenching Tool From World War I

National Museum Of American History

The world’s first truly global conflict, World War I was known for trench warfare. Along the Western Front, young men dug long, narrow trenches between warring Germany and the Allied Powers of France, Belgium, and the Netherlands; there, they’d hunker down for weeks at a time. The entrenching tools used to dig miles of trenches were less than 2 feet long.

Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit Of St. Louis

National Air And Space Museum

When I think of the history of flight in America, the Wright brothers, Amelia Earhart, and Charles Lindbergh come to mind. In his silver, single-engine plane (named for the folks who financed the custom-built craft), legendary aviator Charles Lindbergh became the first person to fly nonstop from New York to Paris in 1927. Today, the trendsetting aircraft is prominently displayed in the Boeing Milestones of Flight Hall.

The Mobile Quarantine Facility from the Apollo 11 Landing. — Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Mobile Quarantine Facility (MQF) From The Apollo 11 Landing

Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center

About 40 minutes west of Washington, D.C., near Dulles International Airport, the 760,000-square-foot Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center contains a variety of additional air-related artifacts beyond those at the National Air and Space Museum. And whether you witnessed the historic moon landing in real time on television or learned about it after the fact, you’ll likely recall the Apollo 11 astronauts peering out of the back of the MQF as they were welcomed home by President Richard Nixon.

Rosa Parks’s Dress

National Museum Of African American History And Culture (NMAAHC)

During her commute home in 1955, Rosa Parks was arrested for refusing to give up her bus seat to a white man. At the time of her arrest, the seamstress was stitching a long-sleeved, shawl-collar floral print dress that you can see at the NMAAHC.

Pro Tip: While there is no admission fee to visit any of the Smithsonian museums, galleries, or gardens, timed-entry tickets are currently required to visit the NMAAHC.

Apple Macintosh Personal Computer

National Museum Of American History

Launched via an Orwellian commercial that aired at the Super Bowl XVIII, the Apple Macintosh revolutionized personal computing by being the first home computer with a built-in screen and mouse. The Mac’s graphical user interface (GUI) allowed users to click, drag, and drop instead of typing out commands. Computers have advanced tremendously since the mid 1980s, so don’t miss this first-generation Apple computer when you visit the Smithsonian.

Julia Child’s Kitchen

National Museum Of American History

Whether you remember it from her television show, The French Chef, or from the end of the award-winning movie Julie & Julia, you won’t want to miss Julia Child’s kitchen at the National Museum of American History. Built with higher-than-standard countertops to accommodate the chef’s height, the kitchen was moved from Child’s home in Cambridge, Massachusetts, to the Smithsonian in 2001.

Portraits Of Barack And Michelle Obama

National Portrait Gallery

Although an official portrait of each president is hung in the National Portrait Gallery at the end of their term, President Barack Obama made history by being the first black American elected to the highest office. It was also the first time that a black artist was commissioned to paint an official presidential portrait.

While it’s in the 20th-Century Americans exhibit instead of the America’s Presidents gallery, First Lady Michelle Obama’s portrait by Amy Sherald is also a first — the first portrait of a First Lady painted by a black artist.

The portrait of President Obama in the National Portrait Gallery. — Sage Scott / EverydayWanderer.com

Tips For A Fantastic Visit To The Smithsonian

The Smithsonian welcomes nearly 30 million visitors per year, so you’re likely to experience a crowd when you visit. Consider starting your tour on the top floor and working your way down.
The Smithsonian is an inclusive attraction and provides detailed information about accessibility on its website.
Whether you visit one exhibit, one museum, or multiple Smithsonian buildings, be prepared to do a lot of walking. In addition to wearing comfortable shoes, take a load off by relaxing in the Hirshhorn Museum’s sculpture garden or by watching a movie at the Air and Space Museum.

How To Spend A Day At Royal Gorge

“Fortune favors the bold,” the proverb says. At Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, the bold can find high-flying adventure without spending a fortune. The 1,050-foot deep Royal Gorge, 12 miles west of Canon City, Colorado, is spanned by one of the world’s highest bridges. And a park full of bold adventures has grown up around it. Plan to stay all day, and build your itinerary around our Royal Gorge suggestions.

Dawn's First Light Royal Gorge Bridge — Bridget Calip / Shutterstock.com

Morning

Get A Taste Of Royal Gorge

Start your Royal Gorge day at the Elkhorn Loop Picnic Area and overlook. The free Overlook Trail enables visitors to see the gorge and get a taste of what they are about to experience. The trail is easy and offers beautiful views of the gorge and bridge. To reach the trail, turn left at the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park turnoff and follow County Road 3A until you reach the trailhead. The overlooks offer good photo and selfie opportunities with the gorge and/or bridge as a backdrop. Stretch your legs in preparation for the adventure to come.

Enter The Royal Gorge Bridge And Park

Once you’ve taken some pictures, head into the park proper. The park offers free parking on the north side of the bridge. Oversized vehicles may park in Upper Parking Lot B. Accessible parking is on the visitor center’s north side.

During warm weather, visit the park’s fascinating Water Clock behind the visitor center. Cascading water drives the clock’s gears.

Red gondolas at the Royal Gorge in Colorado — Gino Santa Maria / Shutterstock.com

Glide Through The Sky On The Aerial Gondola

Begin your tour on the Aerial Gondola behind the visitor center. Enjoy the gondola’s serene gliding as it rolls 1,200 feet above the Arkansas River. The ride spans 2,200 feet and only lasts a few minutes. On your ride, you’ll be entranced by the gorgeous 360-degree view of the river, gorge, park, and surrounding mountains. For the best photos, place your camera lens directly onto the gondola’s glass to avoid reflections.

The gondola has six eight-person cars and lines can be long. While waiting, watch the cables pull the gondolas across the gorge. Their propulsion mechanisms, called bullwheels, are exposed below the towers.

Check Off The Top Colorado Bucket-List Item: Royal Gorge’s Zip Line

Travel Channel named the “heart-racing” Cloudscraper Zip Line the number one thing travelers must do in Colorado. You’re guaranteed an adrenaline kick when you fly 1,200 feet above the Arkansas River. The ride provides a jolt of exhilaration you’ll always remember.

The cost is $45 per rider. Save 10 percent when you buy online. Weight, height, and age limits apply. High winds can change the weight requirements.

Especially in summer, mornings are the best time to ride, climb the Via Ferrata, or experience the park’s trails. The weather is cooler and fewer thunderstorms arrive in the morning.

Boldly Free Fall On The World’s Scariest Skycoaster

If you are a true adrenaline junkie, you’ll also want to ride the Royal Rush Skycoaster. Bon Voyage called it the world’s scariest skycoaster.

Note: Skycoasters combine skydiving and hang-gliding, and Skycoaster’s manufacturer says that the ride, which involves flying 70 miles per hour over 1,200-foot Royal Gorge means “a one-of-a-kind thrill ride experience.”

Up to three people can ride together. Height requirements apply. Small children must try on flight suits to determine what type of ride they’re eligible for. Cost is $30 for one rider, $55 for two, and $75 for three.

Climb The Royal Gorge On The Via Ferrata

Channel Spiderman during a bold adventure along Royal Gorge’s Via Ferrata. A via ferrata (Italian for “Iron Path”) is a protected climbing route where relatively inexperienced climbers can safely climb. Royal Gorge offers two levels of Via Ferrata tours. The easier Revelation Tour lasts 2.5 to 3 hours. The more strenuous Royal Tours last all day. The Revelation Tour costs $135 per person and the Royal Tour costs $165. All tours require a short training session and familiarization run.

Hike Royal Gorge’s Park Trails

If you prefer hiking, hit the trails in Royal Gorge Park. The Canyon Rim Trail parallels the Overlook Loop for part of its route, but it offers a more expansive view of Royal Gorge. The trail is rated intermediate. The trail system includes 10 more trails, which are rated from beginner to advanced.

Afternoon

Grab Some Lunch

When lunchtime arrives, the park offers plenty of options. The park offers one year-round restaurant, Cafe 1230, and three seasonal ones.

Cafe 1230 in the visitor center is named for the restaurant’s height above the Arkansas River. Enjoy great views while you try a pizza or a bacon burger.

Cliff Side Patio looks across the gorge from the visitor center. Take some pictures while you’re eating a twisted ice cream cone.

On the south side of the bridge, follow your nose to Bridge View BBQ. Try ribs with a stuffed potato and baked beans, washed down with a root beer float. Or drink a beer from Colorado Springs’ Bristol Brewing Company.

When a band is playing in the Elk Park Amphitheater, listen to the musicians while you eat Italian sausage at Grill on the Hill.

Learn The Park’s Story At The Plaza Theater

Royal Gorge’s history ranges from dinosaurs to the Royal Gorge Railroad War to a devastating fire in 2013. The Plaza Theater tells that history. Watch the mini-documentary and see park artifacts. The theater also has restrooms and a concession stand. Allow for about 45 minutes here.

Play At Tommy Knocker Playland

Let the kids and grandkids burn off energy at Tommy Knocker Playland near the theater. Ropes, slides, nets, tunnels, and towers are always ready at this kid-centric dream destination. The playland is home to a seasonal splash pad and carousel, which adults can ride with the children.

Tourists cross Royal Gorge suspension bridge — Gary C. Tognoni / Shutterstock.com

Find Bold Thrills On The Highest Suspension Bridge In The United States

The park’s central attraction is the bridge. When it opened in 1929, it was the world’s highest suspension bridge, and it kept the title for 75 years. It is still America’s highest bridge.

CBS Denver called it one of the world’s most-frightening bridges, but that designation is misleading. Yes, the lack of stiffening trusses makes the bridge shake and jiggle in high winds, but don’t worry. The builders made sure the bridge would be safe.

As you walk the bridge, find signatures on the planks. People signed them during the bridge’s 90th birthday celebration in 2019. Look down at the Arkansas River running 956 feet below. Imagine the Empire State Building standing below with enough room for a 3-foot-tall flagpole. Appreciate the various colors and forms in the gorge walls. State flags are attached to bridge cables all along the bridge span.

Make sure to examine the bridge’s structure above and below the bridge deck. The structure’s sculptural forms are fascinating.

Away from the bridge, examine some of its cable anchors. The ascending cables make for interesting images for those feeling creative and wanting to document their visit in photographs.

Evening

Enjoy Sunset On Skyline Drive

On your way out of the park, watch the sun set along Canon City’s Skyline Drive. Skyline Drive is a 2.6-mile one-way paved road west of Canon City. The route starts with a steep hill headed to a narrow road flanked by sheer cliffs on both sides — and no guardrails. Skyline Drive will reward your boldness with thrilling views. Allow about 20 minutes to drive from Royal Gorge.

Make sure to arrive well before sunset, especially on summer weekends. Traffic can be bumper-to-bumper with nowhere to turn around. Drive only small cars, trucks, or vans. The route is not fit for motorhomes. Hike up to the trail on top of the ridge for even better views. Make sure to bring a flashlight. Allow at least an hour to explore, more if traffic is heavy.

Get A Bite To Eat In Canon City

Skyline Drive ends in Canon City’s Downtown Historic District. While exploring downtown, try hand-tossed Colorado pizza or The Big One at Pizza Madness, open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

Colorado's Royal Gorge as a train rounds the bend — Martin Haas / Shutterstock.com

Enjoy Royal Gorge From The Bottom Up

If you have an extra day, reserve 2.5 hours to ride the Royal Gorge Route Railroad from Canon City. The train leaves daily at 12:30 p.m. from the Santa Fe Depot a block south of the intersection at Highway 50 and 3rd Street in Canon City. The railroad adds additional departure times to its schedule from April to October. Check the schedule for departure times. Ticket prices begin at $49 for adults and $44 for children. If you ride coach, make sure to bring a blanket and wear a jacket.

Where To Stay

For a unique experience, stay at Royal Gorge Cabins. Rent luxury vacation cabins or glamping tents with 21st-century comforts. The tents even include electrical outlets and in-floor radiant heat. Tents start at $179 per night. Cabins start at $355 per night.

Stay at Bighorn Mountaintop Lodge and you’ll get a ticket discount and not even have to leave the park at night. Prices range from $175 per night during off-peak season and $250 per night during peak season.

Canon City has many other lodging options available, from budget to luxury.

Royal Gorge Pro Tips

Before you leave, visit the Tasting Room at The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey. The Canon City winery has won numerous awards, including 2018 Colorado Winery of the Year. The winery is open 10 a.m to 5 p.m. daily, except for Sundays. Sunday hours are noon to 5 p.m. Most wines are free to taste, but reserve wines cost $1 each. Book VIP tastings from May to September with 24 hours’ advance notice.

An entire day at the park costs $25 per adult and $20 for children from 6 to 12 years old. Prices are $2 less per person during off-peak season, October 1 to April 31. However, since peak season’s hours are longer, peak prices offer the most time and options to enjoy the park. Tickets include a second day. Save an additional $2 by purchasing tickets online.

More To Know

Park closing times vary. The park always opens at 10 a.m. but may close as early as 4 p.m. depending on the time of year. Check the schedule before making your plans.
Afternoon thunderstorms are common, especially in the summer. To avoid them, arrive in the morning and plan your activities accordingly.
Wear flat, sturdy shoes, since the park has stairs and some rough surfaces.
Leashed dogs may walk around the park but bring a water dish. Dogs are not permitted in buildings or on rides, but the park does have five kennels.
Visitors may bring their own food and water.
While you are at altitude, drink plenty of fluids to avoid altitude sickness. Limit alcohol and caffeine.
Wear plenty of sunscreen and use lots of lip balm.

Want to stay somewhere nearby? Consider how to spend 48 hours in Colorado Springs.

8 Things To Know About Colorado’s Million Dollar Highway

Sometimes, you’re just in the mood for a road trip. That’s how my wife and I were feeling when we stumbled upon one of the best drives we’ve ever taken: southwestern Colorado’s Million Dollar Highway. We hadn’t seen it on a map, nor had someone told us about it. We were simply driving through Durango, Colorado when we looked at a map, saw that Highway 550 would take us north toward Grand Junction, and drove up into the mountains. What awaited us was a drive that we’d never forget.

The Million Dollar Highway portion isn’t the entire route. Highway 550 runs from northern New Mexico all the way up to southern Colorado. But the section from Silverton, Colorado, to Ouray, Colorado — the section high in the mountains — has been dubbed the Million Dollar Highway.

Here are some things to know if you are going to make the drive.

Fall foliage along the Million Dollar Highway. — SNEHIT PHOTO / Shutterstock

1. Legends Abound About Its Name

There are many legends about how the highway got its name. Some say it was named for the million-dollar views. Others claim the nickname stuck after would-be road-trippers claimed they wouldn’t drive the highway for a million dollars.

But the name actually came from a planning meeting in the 1920s where, while discussing rebuilding the highway between Ouray and Silverton, someone at the meeting remarked that the project would cost a million dollars — an incredible sum for such a short span of road construction at the time. Once construction was complete, the name stuck, and the Million Dollar Highway was born.

Colorado Million Dollar Highway around Uncompahgre Gorge between Ouray and Silverton — SageElyse / Shutterstock.com

2. It Passes Through The Uncompahgre Gorge

The Million Dollar Highway is all about the views. It twists and turns through a deep gorge, the Uncompahgre Gorge.

To orient yourself, remember that the Uncompahgre Gorge is in southwestern Colorado. On the west side of the gorge is Bald Mountain, and on the other side of the mountain is Telluride Ski Resort. At one point on the Million Dollar Highway, you’re only 4 miles from Telluride as the crow flies — but to drive there would take more than an hour and a half, because there aren’t any roads from the gorge up and over La Junta Peak to Bald Mountain and Telluride.

And when you’re there, you’ll understand why there are no roads that cover those 4 miles. The walls of the Uncompahgre Gorge are so steep that you’ll wonder how the road you’re driving on was ever built in the first place. If you want to get anywhere other than Ouray or Silverton, you’ll have to drive out of the gorge and go around. There’s only one way through.

Mountain views along the Million Dollar Highway. — Jay Krishnan / Shutterstock

3. There Are No Guardrails

Believe it or not, there are no guardrails on the Million Dollar Highway. You’re driving along the edge of a cliff, and there are no barriers at the edge of the shoulder!

This isn’t as scary as it sounds. The shoulder is quite wide, so it’s not like you’re driving with a steep dropoff right next to the edge of the pavement. But it can be intimidating, especially since the drop is so steep.

If you prefer the security that guardrails provide, let someone else do the driving. You’re going to want to take at least 100 pictures anyway, so let your travel partner drive while you snap away.

Red Mountain from Red Mountain Pass along Colorados Million Dollar Highway — Steve Hanchett / Shutterstock.com

4. The Views Are Incredible

It’s hard to describe the incredible views — this is one of those “pictures don’t do it justice” kind of places. You’ll have to drive the road yourself to really appreciate it.

There are several areas where you can pull off and take pictures, and you’ll probably want to stop at several of them — especially at the top of Red Mountain Pass, where you can take photos in many different directions.

Aerial of million dollar highway near Ouray, Colorado — NSC Photography / Shutterstock.com

5. The Road Climbs And Descends

Speaking of views, one of the best parts about driving the Million Dollar Highway is seeing where the road goes next. If you drive it from the south (Silverton) to the north (Ouray), you will climb up Red Mountain to Red Mountain Pass and then begin a long descent through the Uncompahgre Gorge down to Ouray. It is on this descent that you’ll get the best views. You’ll come around a corner, see the highway winding below you, and say, “We’re going to go there?”

Make sure to stop at the overlook above Ouray, too. The view of the town from above is spectacular. Even if you’re driving from the north to the south, stop here and look back at the town — and take at least a dozen photos!

Abandoned mining shaft along Colorados Million Dollar Highway — SNEHIT PHOTO / Shutterstock.com

6. You’ll See Lots Of Mining Operations

Silverton is an old mining town (hence the name). As you depart Silverton (if you’re driving south to north) or just before you arrive in Silverton (if you’re driving north to south), you will see the remnants of many mining operations on the hillsides.

The largest operation you’ll see is the old Longfellow Mine. As you reach the top of Red Mountain Pass, you’ll see even more abandoned mining operations. Ultimately, they’re the reason this road exists. There had to be a way to get to this extremely rich mining region.

7. You’ll Wonder How They Built It

One thing I kept wondering over and over as we drove the Million Dollar Highway was how in the world they built this road without modern machinery. There are parts of the highway that seem to be carved out of the side of the cliff. Indeed, the workers more or less cut a notch in the side of the cliff, and that’s the road that takes you from the mountain pass down and out of the gorge.

So if you’re a construction buff, this is your drive. When you’re looking at the mining operations, think about how the discovery of the mining riches of the region led to incredible feats of engineering. The construction, which was completed more than 100 years ago, is as impressive now as it was then.

Ouray, Colorado — Jay Krishnan / Shutterstock.com

8. Nearby Ouray Is A Delight

The gem of our trip was Ouray (the pronunciation is tricky, but after asking the locals, we learned that it’s somewhere between you-ray and yerr-ray). On our second trip to the area, years after our first trip, we decided to spend two nights in Ouray, and we were so glad that we did.

Ouray has been nicknamed Little Switzerland, and the name doesn’t lie. It’s a town that sits on the valley floor with steep cliffs surrounding it, and it really does look like a town in the Swiss Alps. There’s even a waterfall halfway up the cliff on one side that provides a stunning backdrop for the town below.

The town is great as well. It’s your typical Colorado mining town-turned-vacation destination. There are plenty of shops and restaurants all up and down the main street. The area is also known for its hot springs, and there are many resorts and lodges with hot springs access.

If you’re feeling adventurous (my wife was, and I’m glad she dragged me along), hike the rim trail around Ouray. The initial climb is a doozy, but once you reach the level of the trail, it’s basically a flat walk around the cliffs above town. I still have about 40 photos from that hike.

At the end of the day, when you’re walking the main drag with an ice cream in hand, don’t forget to look up at the cliffs surrounding you, remember where you are, and think about the incredible roadway that got you there.

11 Things To Do In Saint Cloud, Minnesota

Located about an hour northwest of the Twin Cities, Saint Cloud may be Minnesota’s best-kept secret. With a population of only about 66,000, it sometimes feels like a small town. People are friendly, the food is delicious, and there are enough attractions to merit a three-day weekend or longer stay.

From kayaking the Mississippi River to watching some of the best college hockey in the country, Saint Cloud offers a wide range of fun activities. Here are just a few great things to do in the area.

Quarry Park and Nature Reserve in St. Cloud — Jacob Boomsma / Shutterstock.com

1. Explore The Quarry Park And Nature Preserve

Saint Cloud was once home to a number of granite quarries, and its red granite was popular for homes and public buildings. The Hundred Acres Quarry operated in the area from the early 1860s until the mid-1950s. In 1992, Stearns County purchased the site and transformed it into the Quarry Park and Nature Preserve.

Today, visitors enjoy nearly 700 acres of hiking trails featuring oak and aspen trees and wetlands full of wildlife, including deer and great horned owls. The quarry pits offer swimming holes for area residents as well as dynamic views with reflections of the stones in the dark water. Artifacts and old equipment are located throughout the park, so you’ll get a dose of history along with some good exercise.

2. Learn About The Area’s History At The Stearns History Museum

At the Stearns History Museum, you can learn about the area’s history through exhibits on everything from the evolution of nature to the history of toys. You’ll also learn about the role prominent families have played in the development of Saint Cloud. If the building looks familiar, that’s because scenes from the movie The Mighty Ducks were filmed inside.

The museum is situated in Heritage Park, so you can enjoy a walk through 70 acres of nature after your museum visit.

Mississippi river near St Cloud, Minnesota — Vladimir Daragan / Shutterstock.com

3. Enjoy Time On The Mississippi River

Explore the Mississippi at the water level by kayaking the country’s most famous river. Bring your own boat or rent one; either way, you’ll enjoy taking in the nature that surrounds you. As you navigate, you might see loons or herons along the shoreline.

Located about 20 minutes south of Saint Cloud, Clear Waters Outfitting is the place to go to rent kayaking equipment.

Fountain and Flowers in The Clemens Gardens in St. Cloud — Randy Runtsch / Shutterstock.com

4. Stop To Smell The Roses At The Munsinger And Clemens Gardens

Hugging the shoreline of the Mississippi River, the Munsinger and Clemens Gardens provide a beautiful spot to enjoy a walk, take in the views, and smell the roses. The area actually consists of two separate botanical gardens.

Opened in the 1930s, Munsinger Garden features 14 acres of flower paths underneath scores of pine trees. Munsinger is also recognized for its well-groomed grass and flower island beds that reflect the shape of the nearby river.

The 7-acre Clemens Garden was founded in the 1990s and is located on a hilltop overlooking Munsinger Garden. With smaller gardens including roses and perennials, Clemens also features a series of water fountains and ironworks displays.

During the summer months, the gardens host a series of outdoor concerts featuring local musicians.

5. Catch A Show Downtown

Offering outstanding community theater and concerts, the Paramount Center for the Arts is a throwback to the days when people flocked to downtown theaters to catch Vaudeville acts, silent movies, or other performances. Today, the Paramount remains the place to go to enjoy community theater performances. The theater also hosts live concerts, primarily starring local or regional musical acts. As a community arts center, the Paramount offers workshops and classes on a variety of subjects, including painting and pottery.

Originally opened as an Elks Lodge in 1913, Pioneer Place on Fifth is now an intimate setting for concerts, typically tributes to performers such as Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young; Janis Joplin; Queen; and the Carpenters.

6. Stroll Through Lake George Park

Located a short walk from downtown Saint Cloud, Lake George Park offers a variety of activities, from hiking to paddleboarding to kayaking. Bring a picnic basket and enjoy a nice meal under the shade of the trees. A veterans memorial near the lake pays tribute to the men and women who have served in the military.

During the summer, the park is filled with the sounds of outdoor concerts and special events such as the Middletown Market, which features food trucks and other vendors.

7. Hike The Beaver Island Trail

Running 5 miles from Saint Cloud State University to downtown, the Beaver Island Trail features views of the Mississippi River from a paved trail through wooded areas. During your walk, you may see some of the area’s wildlife.

Traveling through River Bluffs Regional Park, the trail eventually leads to the Saint Cloud River Walk, a half-mile trail near the River’s Edge Convention Center. While on the river walk, stop at the giant picture frame for a fun photo to remember your visit to the area by.

8. Watch A Huskies Game

If you visit during the college hockey season, you can watch Saint Cloud State’s men’s and women’s teams take on some of the best teams in the country. At the Herb Brooks National Hockey Center, the teams compete as members of the best leagues in college hockey — the men in the National Collegiate Hockey Conference and the women in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association.

The Huskies have been the top-ranked team in men’s hockey in recent seasons, while the women continue to build their program. Several former players have gone on to play in the National Hockey League, and Saint Cloud State has become a popular team for players who dream of playing professionally. On the women’s side, the Huskies have produced Olympians for both the United States and Canada.

9. Visit Saint John’s University

Home to one of the world’s largest stained glass windows, Saint John’s University in nearby Collegeville, Minnesota, provides an opportunity to take in beautiful scenery while exploring cultural and religious attractions. The stained glass window at Saint John’s Abbey Church stands about 65 feet tall and stretches almost 200 feet wide. As you stand inside the church viewing the stained glass, you’ll notice the size and beauty of each pane. The nearly 50-year-old concrete church is designed in a semicircular fashion and seats up to 1,500 people.

Standing in front of the windows, the bell tower is more than 100 feet tall and can be seen for miles. As the bells sound, they create music to your ears.

A short walk from the church is the Saint John’s Bible Gallery. It’s home to the Saint John’s Bible, which features beautiful calligraphy and illustrations completed over a 10-year period beginning in the late 1990s. The exhibit includes folios of the Saint John’s Bible as well as other Bibles from around the world. The museum also features Bible-related artifacts and artwork.

10. Enjoy A Cold One At A Local Brewery

A hop, skip, and a jump from the Mississippi River in downtown Saint Cloud, Beaver Island Brewing Company produces great-tasting craft beer. Once a home-brewing operation, Beaver Island still produces its beer on-site. As you sample a flight of core and seasonal drinks from a serving tray that resembles a canoe oar, you can watch the brewmasters at work. Beaver Island also sells cans for home enjoyment.

Next door to Saint Cloud in Saint Joseph, Minnesota, Bad Habit Brewing Company also features locally brewed beer. From ale to dark beer, there’s something for everyone on tap. Bad Habit also makes its own soda.

11. Appreciate The City’s Culinary Scene

Saint Cloud’s culinary scene is second to none. With its outstanding restaurants that rival those in the Twin Cities, you could spend your entire visit sampling the local cuisine.

The Pickled Loon will delight your taste buds with its fried Brussels sprouts tossed in a housemade maple honey sauce and topped with sliced almonds. You may want to skip the entrees and just keep ordering more Brussels sprouts, but you’d be depriving yourself of even more amazing tastes. From the sriracha barbecue meatloaf to the fish tacos, you’d swear you were dining at a high-end eatery in the Twin Cities instead of a bar and grill in downtown Saint Cloud.

Not to be outdone, Anton’s challenges you to walk away hungry. The restaurant’s decor resembles that of a lodge (it’s actually in a log cabin and is located next to the Sauk River, which you can view during your meal). You can enjoy its famous oversized popovers as bread with your meal (try the honey butter on a warm slice) or as an entree. The menu also features items such as maple-glazed roast duck, fresh fish, and steaks, and the portions are huge and filling.

For a truly impeccable breakfast, head to the Nelson Brothers Restaurant inside the Clearwater Travel Plaza. Not many people would recommend a truck stop for a dining experience, but after one visit to the travel plaza, you’ll be a fan. With a bakery recognized for its head-sized pastries, the restaurant offers a menu with sizable portions. From pancakes that cover the plate to omelets that run the length of a dish, breakfast at Nelson Brothers needs to be on your Saint Cloud bucket list.

Where To Lay Your Head

Several chain hotels call Saint Cloud home, and they are reasonably priced and centrally located. The Best Western Plus and Kelly Inn is located adjacent to the Mississippi River and convention center and features impressive artwork in its lobby area, as well as outstanding suites and rooms. The GrandStay Residential Suites Hotel is located downtown and offers outstanding accommodations and amenities.

If you prefer a bed and breakfast experience, The Estates Bed and Breakfast in Saint Joseph features three elegant suites. Is there anything better than a home-cooked meal at a bed and breakfast?

From exploring nature on the trails and the Mississippi River to enjoying great food, a visit to Saint Cloud provides adventure, culture, and culinary delights. You’ll leave excited to tell others about this Minnesota hidden gem.