Recreation

Sporting events and recreational activities are plentiful throughout the state of Minnesota. The Twin Cities are home to major-league sports teams including the Twins (baseball), the Vikings (football), the Timberwolves (men's basketball), the Lynx (women's basketball), the Wild (hockey), and a number of minor league sports teams.

Minnesota also boasts the title of the land of 10,000 lakes and offers a playground to outdoor enthusiasts. The rivers and lakes, green parks and water parks, playgrounds, and recreational facilities provide access to a wide selection of sports such as fishing, biking, boating, hiking, downhill and cross-country skiing, skating, swimming, field sports, and walking. Minnesota has 75 state parks and 58 state forests, including 2 national forests.

The Minnesota Zoo and the Como Zoo, the Bell Museum of Natural History, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, and the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge provide excellent opportunities to observe and learn about nature and our environment.

Shoppers will find stores and malls galore ranging from quaint antique shops and specialty boutiques to nationally recognized stores and outlet malls. Bloomington, just minutes from the Twin Cities, is home to the nation's largest shopping center, the Mall of America. Both Minneapolis and St. Paul have vibrant downtowns that are easily accessible by car, bus, and light rail.

Visit the Explore Minnesota website for more information on things to do, where to go, places to stay, events, travel ideas, and more.