The Mac Weekly

Issue date: 5/2/08 Section: Features

Media Credit: Taylor Uggla

Believe it or not, Minnesota does eventually have a summer season, much of which is quite delightful. Read ahead to discover the best ways to enjoy our state's natural beauty, as well as how to utilize those events and facilities that only our fair Midwestern metropolis can offer.

1) Summer Music and Movies at Loring Park
On Mondays from July 14 to August 18, you can catch a free concert and vintage film in beautiful Loring Park. The music begins at seven and the movies begin at dusk, so bring your blanket and someone to share it with. Last year's series showcased the 1950s Hollywood films of Douglas Sirk, and performers included such artists as Black Blondie, Metronomy, and Andy Palacio. The Walker Art Center and the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board copresent this event, and Lunds acts as its sponsor.
www.walkerart.org

2) Lake Calhoun
One of the most popular summer spots in the Twin Cities, this lake provides endless opportunities for fun. Swim, sail, canoe, take a gondola ride, or just sunbathe on one of three public beaches. Get a cone or sandwich at the pavilion, or, my personal favorite, walk the perimeter and gush over the beautiful houses along the way. Lake Calhoun is also perfect for biking, roller-blading or dog walking.
www.minneapolisparks.org

3) Minneapolis Farmer's Market
Open from mid-April to mid-November from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Minneapolis Farmer's Market is an experience you just can't miss. Especially lively on Saturday mornings and located just a stone's throw away from downtown Minneapolis, go here for fresh local produce and a few more traveled products (like tropical bananas). Prices are great and the atmosphere is even better.
www.mplsfarmersmarket.com

4) The Vali-Hi Drive-In
Although the amount of drive-ins in Minnesota has decreased dramatically over the years, a few still remain open, and there is no better way to spend a summer evening. The closest location to Macalester is the Vali-Hi Drive-In in Lake Elmo. It's approximately 23 minutes away from campus, but well worth the drive. At Vali-Hi you'll be able to enjoy the summer heat and several films with either a carful of friends or that special someone.
www.drive-ins.com

5) The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW)

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