Visiting Minnesota

Minnesota, the land of 10,000 lakes, with over 70 state parks and 58 state forests is a mecca for outdoor summer fun. The capital Saint Paul and the largest city, Minneapolis merge to form the largest metropolitan area in the state, which is home to over 60 percent of the states residents. The Twin Cities are Minnesota's center of business, industry, arts and culture. Duluth, north on the shores of Lake Superior, the world's largest lake, hosts residents and summer visitors outdoors at Hartley and Barton Peak Forest Parks. Travelers motor along the North Shore Scenic Drive, a designated National All American Road.

Tall Ships Duluth 2010 takes place July 28th through August 3rd. Tall Ships is a rare opportunity to see eight spectacular tall ships participating in the Great Lake United Tall Ships Challenge. Duluth is the only port of call on Lake Superior and only one of six US cities on the challenge. Catch the magic of earlier seafaring times as you witness their arrival, the Grand Parade of Sail or actually step aboard one for a tour. Bring friends and family for a weekend of special events, fun and the amazing site of the tall ships.

Duluth and Superior across St Louis Bay are home to three Best Western Hotels. The Best Western Downtown Motel in Duluth is close the the waterfront and within walking distance of downtown. The Best Western Bridgeview Motor Inn and the Best Western Bay Walk Inn in Superior are also conveniently located near Lake Superior. With affordable rates, consider booking a few extra days to check out the Great Lakes Aquarium or enjoy the outdoors, golfing or hiking in the area.

The perfect summer event, the 2010 Minnesota State Fair runs August 26th through Labor Day September 6th. The fairgrounds are located mid-way between Minneapolis and St Paul, north of I-94 and south of highway 36. With all the traditional exhibits of the states winning agriculture, livestock and homemade goods, there is plenty to see. There is also no lack of things to do with the midway, kidway, carnival rides, contests and free entertainment. Grandstand headliners include Brandi Carlile, Carrie Underwood, MercyMe and Garrison Keeler in A Prairie Home Companion.

The State Fair is one of Minnesota's largest and most popular summer events. With over ten Best Western Hotels in the Minneapolis Saint Paul area, choosing Best Western for your lodging needs makes sense. The unique Best Western Bandana Square is the closest location to the fairgrounds. Bandana Square is a historic train repair shop and the Best Western has maintained the original wood beams and train tracks.