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What does it take to make the Twin Cities Gateway a happy visit? First, what is the Twin Cities Gateway? The organization represents tourism for the following ten cities in the North Metro. Anoka, Arden Hills, Blaine, Coon Rapids, Fridley, Ham Lake, Lino Lakes, Mounds View, New Brighton, and Shoreview make up the involved cities. They work together to bring tourism to the area. They believe in the old adage, “A Rising Tide Lifts all Boats.” However, if you also want to know more about the Twin Cities, here’s another post to enjoy.
What’s here, and where is it?
The Twin Cities Gateway communities represent the north metro, where visitors from the north and northwest enter the area. It’s a great place for any visitor, regardless of which direction they come from. As “The Driveby Tourist,” I visited the area to write about why it’s a fun and family-friendly place to be.
Much of this post includes an overview and links to the four “adventures” I created. I have individual posts about two destinations, as the people there talked with me about their destinations. (The company through which I did the work is Shpa.com. Here’s a reference: @tryshrpa. Shrpa puts creators in touch with destinations and pays us a limited amount. We have the right to use anything, including links to the product we created on our own blog or publications.)
Did you know that blogs are typically reader supported? So, buy me a hot chocolate! Or not!.
Let’s look at the New Brighton & Blaine area, including Regional Parks
The two destinations I’ll cover in more detail are Northern Soda and the New Brighton History Center. First, I’m sharing the Adventure that includes Northern Soda.
In addition to Northern Soda, I visited the National Sports Center in Blaine, Turtle Lake Regional Park in Shoreview, Wargo Nature Center in Lino Lakes, and Northtown Mall in Blaine. Here’s a link to the adventure Northern Soda and several regional parks.
Here’s a quick summary if you didn’t click on the link above. (No, you don’t have to do so!!) First, the National Sports Center. It’s the world’s largest amateur sports facility. It hosts over 100 events annually and draws 4 million visitors. The center has about 50 soccer fields, eight indoor Olympic-size hockey rinks, and much more! Here’s a link to the Center. You may visit the area to view or participate in an event here. Three of my granddaughters played hockey in this facility for tournaments.
Other stops include Turtle Lake Regional Park and the Wargo Nature Center in your Twin Cities Gateway Visit. Turtle Lake Park focuses on family recreation and features a play area, a few hiking trails, and a beach on Turtle Lake.
If you need to shop, Northtown Mall is in Blaine. If you need more clothes or other goods, it’s a handy place to visit. The mall has several outlet stores, and soon, it will include an Asian section with an Asian-flavor food court, various Asian bulk foods, and other items.
Want to see a shop for my road trip photos? You can have them printed as wall art or puzzles. They also work on coffee mugs, t-shirts and more! So, take a look. Maybe you'll see something you will like!
Northern Soda
Follow the link here to learn more about Northern Soda!
While I was there, I purchased 12 flavors, all of which were very tasty! Again, follow the link to learn more.
Include New Brighton in your visit.
New Brighton (next to Blaine) has a fascinating history. It was once a “railroad town,” and the museum is in an old railroad car. Following that visit (currently weekends only), pay a visit to a nearby park, the National Sports Center, and Northern Soda, particularly the production part of their business. End the day with a music visit to Crooner’s Supper Club in nearby Fridley. Read on for more about it.
New Brighton (next to Blaine) has a fascinating history. It was once a “railroad town,” and the museum is in an old railroad car. Following that visit (currently weekends only), pay a visit to a nearby park, the National Sports Center, and Northern Soda, particularly the production part of their business. End the day with a music visit to Crooner’s Supper Club in nearby Fridley. Read on for more about it.
New Brighton History Center
Here is a link to more information about the New Brighton History Center.
Long Lake Regional Park
Discover paradise in this lakeside park! Enjoy a refreshing swim at the beach with the convenience of a nearby concession stand. Little ones can play in the toddler sand area, while two playgrounds and volleyball courts offer fun for all ages, all within easy reach. Launch your boat, fish from the pier, or explore over three miles of paved trails. With such various activities, there’s always something new and exciting to discover at the lakeside park! With a playfield, 32 picnic tables, and more, it’s the perfect outdoor destination for everyone, regardless of age or interests! You may also rent the shelter for larger groups.
National Sports Center
Eight hockey rinks, over 50 soccer fields, a golf course, and many more sporting fields await your visit. Whether you are here for a sporting event or viewing the facility, it’s fascinating. Many are captivated by the 8 Olympic size hockey areas, a testament to the center’s prestige. The hockey tournaments are renowned, attracting teams from as far away as Alaska.
Crooners Supper Club
This remarkable club features four diverse music opportunities, catering to a wide range of tastes. The main stage hosts the most significant events in an inviting nightclub setting, promising a variety of genres to keep you excited and intrigued. With its cozy and intimate setting, the Dinsmore Jazz Room is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy jazz in a more casual and relaxed atmosphere. The Belvedere offers seasonal entertainment in a tent-like structure from May through October. Finally, Maggie’s Lounge offers a piano lounge and casual entertainment outside the ticketed concerts. For those seeking an exclusive experience, our VIP seating at the three ticketed concerts offers premium seating and a reserved location.
Visit “The Hardware Store”
While in Anoka, visit The Hardware Store! You’ll have to make an appointment. Why, do you say? Read on for more.
What do you have when you see this at your given address? You walk in and tell them what kind of tool you want to buy! (Be careful with that “passcode,” as you don’t want the police to raid the place!)
It’s a replica of a prohibition-era speakeasy! And it’s a great place for a drink! Check out this link to learn more about The Hardware Store and the other stops on this day.
Visit the Anoka Social District while on your Twin Cities Gateway Visit
Here’s the link to the places visited in the Anoka Social District. Working with the State of Minnesota, the city developed this Social District to give the area entertainment flexibility in the summer. During the season, you can take beer, wine, or mixed drinks with a “to-go” cup anywhere in the social district. It works like New Orleans and other places that allow this activity.
The program is a trial for 2024 but existed in 2023 while the city and state decide how to handle it going forward. Other stops here include the Rum River Dam, Anoka downtown, and Ginny Bites. Have a fun but not calorie-free visit!
Hope you had a fun Twin Cities Gateway Visit!
The ten suburbs that make up the Twin Cities Gateway welcome you and hope you come back again. You’ll see and experience many different activities here.
Classic Rock Recollection
“Summer in the City” by ‘The Lovin’ Spoonful
Cool town, evening in the city
Dressed so fine and lookin’ so pretty
Cool cat lookin’ for a kitty
Gonna look in every corner of the city
‘Til I’m wheezing like a bus stop
Runnin’ upstairs, gonna meet you on the rooftop
Written by: John Sebastian, Mark Douglas, Steve Boone
#thedrivebytourist #northernsoda #twincitiesgateway