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Apple Valley, a relatively-modern suburban community at the southern edge of Minnesota's Twin Cities region, is far enough from the city to have plenty of open space to host parkland, a golf course and the state's expansive zoological gardens while remaining close enough to allow easy access to Minneapolis and its big-city amenities.
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This nationally-recognised zoo, established by the state in 1978 as the primary local attraction and "wildest place in the Twin Cities", includes 2500 animals on 485 acres. Themed walking trails range from one to two miles in length. Exhibits are divided by climate, not species, into six themed areas including a Tropics Trail (animals from rain forests and tropical habitats), a Northern Trail (large animals from the world's cold climates, such as musk ox) and a Minnesota Trail (Minnesota native animals including black bears, wolves, wolverines and a beaver pond). There are monkeys, penguins and an aquarium. Extra charge applies for IMAX and the Conservation Carousel ride. Restaurant, souvenir shop, live music venue on-site. 24-hour information line: +1 952-431-9500.
Forests, grasslands, marshes and wetlands. Largest park in Dakota County. Hiking and mountain biking. Canoeing, kayaking, swimming, camping and horseback riding in summer; skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating and ice fishing in winter.
18 holes on 190 acres, banquet space, full scale bar, restaurant and outdoor patio, Valleywood Grill (+1 952-953-2335), pro shop (+1 952-953-2323), lessons.
One of the area's biggest parades, includes local marching bands and a fireworks display.
Ice skating, contests and children's events.
Main Street grill, tavern, event space.
Chinese fast food, delivery within 5 mile radius.
Sandwiches and draft beer.
Locally-owned authentic Thai restaurant.
Osaka Seafood & Stakehouse
A hibachi grill, where teppanyaki chefs put on a show, with many daily specials.
As basic Asian spot. Red-bean buns, Japanese pizza, rice noodles and satay are among the options.
Seasonal menu of eclectic American small plates and mains.
Authentic Indian cuisine.
Poke technique originates from Hawaii, fusing fresh diced fish with rice, veggies, and an array of other delicious toppings. Customize your bowl or choose menu options.
Home-cooked food
Authentic Mexican food
Coastal Mexican food.
Chinese cuisine and delivery
Gourmet popcorn, fire-roasted fresh daily.
Authentic Vietnamese pho and cuisine.
Gourmet cupcakes and homemade ice cream
Sushi bowls and Asian burritos, and other Minnesotasian tastes.
Beer, wine, fresh sashimi and seafood tapas.
A nouveau urban pub with the feel of a local neighborhood restaurant, featuring 32 craft beers on tap and 28 wines on tap (using a nitrogen preservation system).
Craft beer and hand-crafted cocktails.
Burgers, seafood & steak.
Indoor pool, sauna, Wi-Fi, parking. Hot breakfast included.
All-suite hotel, airport shuttle. Breakfast buffet included
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Minneapolis · International · MSP
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