ST. PAUL, Minneapolis

Well, since this is technically a Minneapolis page, I guess I should mention that St. Paul is a great "off the beaten path" option, although it's notreally off the beaten path. The Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul are really more like one big metro area, so you're likely to find yourself in both cities without even knowing the difference.

This is a picture of the Landmark Center in downtown St. Paul.

This is the place that Garrison Keillor's "'A Prairie Home Companion" is broadcast to millions via National Public Radio and the Arms Forces Radio Network.
Being entertained by one of Minnesota's favorite sons is a great way to spend an evening.

Corner of Wabasha Ave and Exchange St. in St. Paul.

If you can be in the Twin Cities at the end of August you'll be there for the annual Minnesota State Fair, one of the best in the country. The state fairground is a permanent location in St. Paul that houses various exhibit halls and other permanent structures. You'll find foods of all kinds served on sticks, science, technology, agricultural, cultural, and artistic exhibits as well as all kinds of traditional and non-traditional fair-style entertainment. This is an all-day activity if you decide to go.
The fairgrounds is at 1265 Snelling Ave in St. Paul.
Admission is a bargain at $5-7/adult.

If you´re not from Minnesota, you might not know that St. Paul and Minneapolis are different cities.. maybe you do..
St. Paul is older, more scenic, and more residential then Minneapolis.. It´s the capitol of Minnesota, and has wonderful Victorian Mansions on Summit Avenue..
I also recommend going to Grand Avenue.. a trendy shopping district .
The downside to St. Paul is that most things close earlier than in Minneapolis.. There is markedly less nightlife.. Good to visit though.