Even if Jason DeRusha weren’t an early bird to begin with, as an anchor on WCCO’s morning and mid-morning shows, he is now. (As in 2:28 a.m. wake-up call, early.) While Minnesotans know him best for light-hearted segments like “The Good Question” or his current foodie one “DeRusha Eats,” he has convened every type of story in Minnesota, from the joyful to the tragic. If anyone knows the spirit of the Twin Cities, it’s DeRusha.

Kelly A. Pederson

What made you first interested in journalism?

I’ve wanted to be a journalist since I was a kid. I grew up watching the news every night with my family in suburban Chicago, but I vividly remember watching live coverage of the Tiananmen Square uprising and sitting in my living room as journalists are standing there reporting what I knew was going to be in the history books someday. It blew my mind to watch that live coming into my house in my middle class suburb of Chicago. I knew I wanted to be apart of that. I love history, I love telling stories, and that’s really what we do every day. I’m one of those lifers where, from a very early age, this is what I wanted to do.  

When you were first starting out, did you think that you’d be here in the Twin Cities still?

The Twin Cities have a national reputation, so when I started as a reporter in the quad cities of Davenport, Iowa, and Moline, Illinois, and moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, we of course knew the Twin Cities had a reputation of having really high quality TV newsrooms, so I was always interested in coming here, but I never would have guessed that here I would be, almost 15 years later in the Twin Cities.

I think a lot of people in my business end up coming here and think, “Oh, I’ll be here for three years or five years …” That’s kind of how television news works, spend a couple years in one city and then move onto a big city, but when people come here they tend to fall in love with it. It’s a great place to live and a great place to work.

What was your first impression of the Twin Cities?

When I first moved here, my wife and I got married in the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis. So it was 1998, and here I am, this 23-year-old kid standing at the front of one of the nation’s most beautiful churches and the longest aisle you could imagine, my wife-to-be to have to walk up. And that’s the memory.

You know, we took our wedding party pictures in the sculpture garden across the street, which is one of my favorite places to bring people in the Twin Cities. The sculpture garden is so cool. Right? I mean, you have the skyline right there, you can walk to the Walker of course, which is right there, but to have all of these crazy, beautiful, thought-provoking sculptures smack in the middle of downtown Minneapolis is pretty cool.

This year, we went to visit the sculpture garden in Washington, D.C., and I thought, “Oh, it’s going to be pretty good,” right? “It’s in Washington, D.C.” It’s nothing. It’s tiny compared to our sculpture garden, which really is fantastic.

After all of the stories that you have done for the Twin Cities, is there one that you still come back to time after time?

Unfortunately the story that is seared in my mind the most is the worst thing I ever had to cover here,  which is the 35W bridge collapse. I was one of the first reporters on the scene that night. We saw the worst thing that’s ever happened in the history of the state on that night. But we also saw the best, that people regardless of their politics or their race or their background, they jumped in to help, and you saw an incredible response that night that I’ll never forget.

You’ve seen so much of the community here. How would you describe it?

Minnesotans genuinely are friendly and helpful people, so I think of our community as active, friendly, helpful and extremely proud of where we live. if you ask a Minnesotan to tell you about their favorite place to go in their city, you better be in a comfortable chair to hear all of the things they’re going to tell you. People love this place. I know everyone thinks that people love where they live. But I’ve lived in different cities—it’s not always the case. People here are really proud of this state. They’re proud of the natural beauty; they’re excited about the fact that we’re starting to get more national attention for our museums and our restaurants and our beers and our spirits. People are really proud.. That pride is infectious. As a newcomer, you start … It’s hard not to fall in love with it.

Kelly A. Pederson

What do you like about the Twin Cities as far as a place to live?

You’ve got everything you could want here. You’ve got great culture; you’ve got all the sports teams, the professional and the college. I would say that the food scene we have today, I would put up with just about any city in the country. Plus you have all of the urban amenities, and you’re a 20-minute drive from a gorgeous lake—no matter where you live here, you’re 20 minutes from a gorgeous lake. You can enjoy the beautiful nature that you have here in Minnesota as well as the nightlife, the culture, the sports that come with the big city. It’s a very unusual combination. I have kids now, so the schools are amazing here; the neighborhoods are fantastic. I live in a block that has about 15 kids who line up at the bus stop. I mean how great is that when you have kids, where you have that kind of environment for them to grow up in?

You mention the food scene: How did you get started out as a food critic?

Basically I’m an example of somebody who started a Twitter account about food: You know how people say, “Oh, Twitter is just people tweeting pictures of what they had for lunch?” I was tweeting those pictures, and people seemed interested in it, and so I did more of it and more of it. Then I judged that cooking competition (for Minnesota Monthly in 2008). …

In 2008, 2009, I started doing restaurant reviews of suburban spots. Over the years I’ve tried to apply the perspective of an eater and a journalist to my food writing. I’m not a cook, although my wife and I like to cook at home. I’ve never worked at a restaurant unless you count the concessions stand at a swimming pool that I was the manager of when I was in high school. I just try to learn and ask questions and to ask more questions and try to come at it from that perspective.

I’m always thinking of the person who’s eating out. I’m not writing for the chefs; I’m not writing for the culinary community. I’m writing for the average person who might be spending $80 on a babysitter, $10 to park the car and $100 on a special dinner. That’s who I care about.

And on your rare days off, what do you do?

I love riding my bike. This is something I’ve really started doing these past couple of years. We have an incredible network of trails, even in the suburbs in the Twin Cities. I can ride my bike from my suburb all the way down to downtown Minneapolis on a bike trail, which is pretty crazy if you think about it. But I like to ride my bike through the Elm Creek Park Reserve and around to the Coon Rapids dam. We’ll do that as a family as well, so that’s fun for us.

You know, a calm day off for the DeRusha family would be an absolutely insane, jam-packed day for most people. My wife works at home—she’s a financial analyst for a bank—so the weekends come around and she’s ready to get out. We’re not a big, hang-out-on-the-backyard, kind of family. We like to get out and explore and be doing things in the community.

Sponsored by Pedal Pub Twin Cities

Minneapolis and St. Paul are full of bustling scenes—the dining scene, the arts and culture scene, the nightlife scene, and especially in the warmer months, the outdoor scene. We have the big names in each, of course, but to really get a sense of the Twin Cities and to meet new people, don’t overlook the hidden gems. Here are five of our top picks:

Pedal Pub Twin Cities

Sip some suds with new friends with Pedal Pub Twin Cities. Pedal Pub gives you a couple of hours of cruising around Minneapolis and St. Paul to visit some of the best spots around town for a beer or drink.

Buy an individual seat on a mixer tour and meet people who are interested in some of the same things you are: good drinks, Twin Cities living, a bit of fresh air and fun. With seven routes across both metros, you’re bound to find a new hangout spot for later and meet someone to go to it with. If you want to create a customized tour with family, friends or coworkers, check out their private events, too.

Taste Twin Cities Food Tours

Food is one of the great uniters of life. Join a public tour by Taste Twin Cities and walk along the scenic Minneapolis riverfront, in Northeast Minneapolis, around either downtowns, or even in the skyways. (Trust us—the skyways have their own ecosystem, and it’s largely centered around food.) Once the food is served, conversations starts flowing. Also check out their themed public bus tours on pizza and wineries or their private tour options.

Open Mic Nights

Open Mic nights combine local sound, local venues, and of course, local artists and art appreciators. For poetry, one option is to go to Kieran’s Irish Pub in downtown Minneapolis every fourth Tuesday for Poetry SlamMN!; you might even get picked as one of the five random judges. Moto-I has one of the biggest music open mics in the city every Tuesday, but for something more intimate, where performers come to play and chat, try The Warming House. Don’t forget about comedy; the weekly one at Comedy Corner Underground is always a good option.

Social Dances

The Twin Cities have a bounty of social dance places where you can move to the beat, no shoes required. Of course we have hopping night clubs, but for ones that can give you a taste of salsa, ballroom, swing and more.

Check out places like Tapestry Folkdance Center, with drop-in and beginner classes for line dancing, international dances, ballroom parties, and more; the popular Mediterranean Cruise Cafe, which offers late night Salsa Saturdays; and one of the favorites, St. Paul’s historic Wabasha Street Caves for swing dancing. (Find even more places in our roundup.)

Each starts the night with some introductory lessons, and then from there, you can dance the night away and mingle when you want to take a break from the dance floor. People who go know it’s called social dance for a reason, so you’ll find that people are usually more than willing to say hello or even share some moves.

Outdoor Yoga

Through September, Mill City Farmers Market is hosting semiweekly outdoor yoga, courtesy of Alchemy 365 and YogaFit. Bring a mat or just go on the grass and stretch out, and meet other people who like to hit refresh in the same ways you do. Make sure to check out the farmers market before or after.

Let’s get one thing clear: Hiking is a big deal in Minneapolis. As you probably know, there are many benefits of taking the dirt-trail less traveled. Aside from the obvious peace of mind, tranquility and thigh burn, hiking is a great way to experience the great outdoors while staying close to the city.

Sure, many cities in America have urban hiking trails, but few have as many trails as Minneapolis. Maybe that’s why Minneapolis has been named one of the best places to live by Outside Magazine time and time again.

We’ve rounded up some of the best hikes in the city and surrounding area that will satisfy your hiking itch. Even better, most of these hikes can be reached by city bus or light rail. While you’re at it, check out our guide to hiking in St Paul. 

Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden 

Molly O.

Summer at Eloise Butler

The gold standard of urban hiking, the trails of Eloise Butler take hikers through a web of scenic Minnesota low-land. Park your car at Eloise Butler (or, better yet, take the city bus there), and set off on one of the many trails that meander through untouched ponds and vibrant marsh ecosystems. If you take the hike in the summer, the buzz of the freeway will soon fade away, replaced by the hum of frogs and cicadas.

Minnehaha Falls Regional Park

Kyle Smelter

Minnehaha Falls

Minnehaha Falls Regional Park has something for everyone—including the hikers who want to escape the buzz of the city but also want to end up at a cool urban eatery afterward. Starting at the Minnehaha Falls picnic area, the trail drops visitors into rolling, bucolic wonderland that includes over 10-miles of trails and handsome views of the 53-foot-tall Minnehaha waterfall. Even better, you’ll end up right where you started, at the crux of Minnehaha Falls and the adjacent Sea Salt Eatery. The crawfish po’boy is always worth the wait.

Carver Park Reserve

Allan Tokuda

Carver Park Reserve Canopy

Boasting the most trails in the west metro, Carver Park is a great place to spend an afternoon. If you go at dusk, you’ll no doubt be joined by local swallows and perhaps even a bald eagle or two. Take in Minnesota’s diverse swampland from Carver Park’s boardwalk—a 1,700 foot floating boardwalk that will transport you in the eerie tamarack swamps.

Fort Snelling 

Nature Nerd

Fort Snelling State Park

 Long before Minnesota received its statehood, Fort Snelling was a military outpost. During the Civil War era, it even served as a training ground for Union soldiers. Now, the trails—which traverse through the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers and link up to the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge—will immerse you in this history and the decades of conflict between the colonizers and the rivers’ original settlers, the Objibwe people.

Murphy-Hanrehan Park 

Starting at the Old Cedar Bridge, the Murphy-Hanrehan trail system is an oasis for hikers and mountain bikers. You’ll link up with the Wood Duck trail which will lead you through some of the hilliest terrain in the Twin Cities. At 20 miles, Murphy-Hanrehan is one of the most diverse parks in the metro area, providing both hilly forests and flat marshlands. The diversity makes for some of the best bird watching in town. Expect to see blackbirds, blue herons and egrets on this hike.

Talking about the Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival (MSPIFF) ends up including a huge line of astounding numbers: Two hundred sixty-eight films from 75 nations, six screening venues, and more than 40 screenings with the director and subjects attending all pack into the 17 days that make up the festival’s 37th year.

While MSPIFF has a number of program categories, such as Science on Screen, Nextwave, Minnesota Made and Dark Out, the spotlight for 2018 is Chasms and Bridges: Cinema and the Search for Common Ground. Stories and art have long been recognized as a way to bridge perceived divides and to bring to light to obscured voices, and these films, whether fictional or real, show how no matter how old we are, how we identify ourselves, where we live and how much money we have, common threads still unite us.

Check out 10 films from this Spotlight category plus a note on one of the three short compilation screenings. However, as this list makes up a mere 9.5 percent of the total feature length films at the festival and a quick sentence doesn’t begin to encapsulate them, make sure to look through the MSPIFF website or the MSPFilmSociety app to find what films speak to you April 12-28.

“RBG,” April 12, two screenings. Tickets are sold out, so come early for rush tickets. Follow the life of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and see how she became the political and feminist icon she is today—plus, learn about the moments that just made her, her. Director Betsy West will be attending, and tickets include admission to the Opening Night Party at Jefe: Urban Hacienda.

“Black Kite,” April 14, 15, 18. When the Taliban outlaws flying kites, Arian can’t stand the thought of his daughter’s freedoms being stripped away and vows to fly a kite with her in this film shot over two weeks while the production crew evaded the real Taliban. Director Tarique Qayumi will be attending.

“Wajib,” April 14, 18, 25. The dynamics of leaving or staying in Palestine creep into this dramedy by the “preeminent female filmmaker in the Arab world” about a father, teacher and visiting son as they hand deliver the latter’s wedding invitations.

“What Will People Say,” April 15, 19, 21. After high school student Nisha’s parents discover the Western lifestyle she lives outside of their traditional Pakistani household, they send her to live with her aunt in Pakistan.

“The Workers Cup,” April 15, 20, 28. Adam Sobel’s documentary shows the exploitation and endurance of Qatar’s migrant workers as they work to construct the 2022 FIFA World Cup stadium while holding their own football tournament.

“The Cakemaker,” April 15 and 24. When Thomas learns his lover Oren died in a car accident, he leaves his home in Berlin to travel to Jerusalem to meet Oren’s wife and son who never knew about him and ends up working as the widow’s pastry chef.

“Of Father and Sons,” April 20, 23, 28. Documentary filmmaker Talal Derki pretended to be a jihadist sympathizer and provides singular access to the household of Osama, an Al-Nusra Front member, where he reveals a family that experiences love, darkness and radicalization.

“Western,” April 19, 25, 28. A German construction team clash with the Bulgarian villagers they now share the land with in order to build a hydroelectric plant, and one man walks the middle.

“Crime + Punishment,” April 27 and 28. This documentary peers into an abyss full of corruption and systemic racism in the New York City Police Department through one group of officers’ frank conversations and hidden recordings.

“Minding the Gap,“ April 27 and 28. A documentary captured from a skateboard—Bing Liu records the lives of himself and two of his friends as they find themselves on the edge of being men in the Rust Belt. Director Bing Liu will be attending.

Bonus: “Chasms and Bridges II, April 17.“ One of three Spotlight short compilations, “Chasms & Bridges II” shows five stories, including a 21-minute documentary on undocumented workers in Wisconsin’s dairy industry, a 5-minute animation depicting the meeting of a Chinese mother and her British-born daughter, and a 22-minute story on the transformation of an Israeli commissioned officer as he transports a prisoner.

Minneapolis St. Paul Film Society

With Bon Jovi, Shania Twain, Harry Styles, Charlie Puth, Justin Timberlake and Bruno Mars coming to the Xcel Energy Center this year and Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift and Jay-Z and Beyonce (iconic, right?) coming to U.S. Bank Stadium, it’s pretty safe to say we’re not lacking in the concert department here in the Twin Cities. But what about the smaller venues and the up-and-coming artists? If you’re anything like me, my music/concert funds only allow me to spend breath-taking amounts of money on tickets maybe once a year. But the good news is that with our thriving music scene here in the Twin Cities, plenty of talented musicians come this way for more intimate concerts at venues such as First Avenue and 7th St. Entry, Varsity Theater, Cedar Cultural Center and Palace Theater—and the tickets to see them up close won’t cost you half your paycheck. Here are just 14 concerts (out of many) coming up in the next two months that you won’t want to miss.

Courtney Marie Andrews (with Molly Parden)

WHERE: 7th St. Entry
WHEN: April 2
COST: $12
SONGS: “Kindness of Strangers” by Courtney Marie Andrews, “Who Did You Leave for Me?” by Molly Parden

Phillip Phillips (with The Ballroom Thieves)

WHERE: First Avenue
WHEN: April 3
COST: $25
SONGS: “Gone, Gone, Gone” and “Miles” by Phillip Phillips, “Can’t Cheat Death” by The Ballroom Thieves

Robert Earl Keen

WHRE: Varsity Theater
WHEN: April 12
COST: $35
SONGS: “Feelin’ Good Again” and “Corpus Christi Bay”

Echosmith (with The Score and Jena Rose)

WHERE: First Avenue
WHEN: April 13
COST: $24
SONGS: “Over My Head” by Echosmith, “Legend” by The Score and “Reasons” by Jena Rose

Margo Price (with Blackfoot Gypsies)

WHERE: First Avenue
WHEN: April 15
COST: $30
SONGS: “Hurtin’ (On the Bottle)” and “A Little Pain” by Margo Price and “Coming Through the Pines” by Blackfoot Gypsies

Current Swell (with Trevor Devine and The Immaculate Beings)

WHERE: 7th St. Entry
WHEN: April 16
COST: $10
SONGS: “Young and Able” and “When to Talk and When to Listen” by Current Swell, “Teach Me How to Love Again” by Trevor Devine and The Immaculate Beings

Robbie Fulks (with Buffalo Gospel)

WHERE: Cedar Cultural Center
WHEN: April 20
COST: $20
SONGS: “Long I Ride” and “Alabama At Night” by Robbie Fulks and “Hard Labor Side of Gettin On” by Buffalo Gospel

Lord Huron

WHERE: Palace Theater
WHEN: April 22
COST: $33.50
SONGS: “Wait by the River” and “The Night We Met”

FRENSHIP (with Yoke Lore)

WHERE: 7th St. Entry
WHEN: April 27
COST: $15
SONGS: “Capsize” and “LOVE Somebody” by FRENSHIP and “Fake You” and “Goodpain” by Yoke Lore

Mary Bridget Davies and Mia Dyson

WHERE: Cedar Cultural Center
WHEN: April 28, 2018
COST: $22
SONGS: “Take It to the Limit” by Mary Bridget Davies and “Fool” by Mia Dyson

George Ezra (with Noah Kahan)

WHERE: First Avenue
WHEN: April 30
COST: $35
SONGS: “Paradise” and “Hold My Girl” by George Ezra and “Hurt Somebody (with Julia Michaels)” by Noah Kahan

Sofi Tukker

WHERE: Fine Line Music Café
WHEN: May 4
COST: $16
SONGS: “Best Friend” and “Baby I’m A Queen”

Randy Houser

WHERE: Varsity Theater
WHEN: May 12
COST: $35
SONGS: “Runnin’ Outta Moonlight” and “How Country Feels”

Marian Hill (with Michl)

WHERE: Palace Theater
WHEN: May 16
COST: $31.50
SONGS: “Down” and “Differently” by Marian Hill and “Die Trying” and “Better With You” by Michl

If I see one more treadmill, I might just throw up my protein shake. Spring is one of my favorite times of year. It allows me to get back out on the running trails I love so dearly, and leave behind fighting for an empty treadmill at a crowded gym. Spring also gives me the opportunity to breathe some fresh air instead of the BO from the people on both sides of me, and I can even work on my tan. And fortunately for others such as myself, the Twin Cities is filled with trails snaking their way throughout the metro.

Design for Health//flickr

Luce Line

Luce Line State Trail

My personal favorite, and one you can often find me running on most of the year, Luce Line State Trail winds its way for 63 miles from Plymouth to the small town of Cosmos in west-central Minnesota. Once an old railroad line, the trail now consists of a crushed limestone path and an adjacent trail for horseback riding that treats runners, walkers and cyclists to forest and lake views.

MN Photos//flickr

Pike Island Trail

Fort Snelling State Park

As a runner myself, I know all too well how much of creatures of habit we can be. And if the thought of trail running has you too intimidated to leave the familiarity of the treadmill or sidewalk outside your home, Fort Snelling State Park has just what the doctor ordered. The Pike Island Trail is on, you guessed it, Pike Island, and consists of 1-,2- and 3-mile loops that are flat and made of gravel, and give runners views of the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers. The Snelling Lake Trail is a flat, gravel 2.5-mile loop that showcases the beauty of Snelling Lake. The Picnic Island Trail is a flat, gravel 1-mile loop that makes it easy for beginners to get into the sport. And veterans can find a challenge in a 6-mile one-way, uneven, gravel trail along the Minnesota River.

Brett Whaley//flickr

Elm Creek Park Reserve

Elm Creek Park Reserve

I’d be doing an injustice if I didn’t include the largest park in Hennepin County. More than 50 miles of trails can be found nestled inside the park’s 4,900 acres, and feature views of woodlands, wetlands, old farm fields, and plenty of wildlife.

Drew Geraets//flickr

Afton State Park

Afton State Park

This 1,600-plus-acre patch of green is a trail runner’s dream. The 20 miles of maintained trails will take runners on a rollercoaster ride up and over hills, through prairie, forests and ravines along the St. Croix River. Afton State Park is also home to one of the most challenging and beautiful trail races around—Afton Trail Run—that runners from all over the country consistently flock to every year.

jpellgen//flickr

Theodore Wirth Regional Park

Theodore Wirth Regional Park

For some of the best trail running in the immediate city, look no further than the largest regional park in the Minneapolis park system—Theodore Wirth Regional Park. With miles upon miles of trails in its 759 acres, there’s scenery for every branch of trail runner, including hardwood forest, prairie, lakeshore and pine forest. It’s also a prime spot for wildlife such as deer, foxes, badgers and a wealth of a bird species, thanks to the bird sanctuary located within the park.

Get your “awwww”s ready: Spring is here, which means so are baby farm animals. Check out three of our places to see cute, little fuzzy things plus an extra one for those who like their baby animals a little long-necked.

Gale Woods Farm (April 7-May 26)

Rise and shine (or at least swing by before noon) every Saturday morning to meet the baby farm animals, walk in the garden and help out around the working farm. Tip: Wear some farm clothes—you’re going to want to be able to play around in the dirt. If you can’t wait to don the overalls, go to the first event of the season on March 30 called Spring Into Farming.

Minnesota Zoo Farm Babies (March 23-April 30)

Watch as the littlest chicks, goats, piglets, lambs, calves and bunnies grow up on the Wells Fargo Family Farm. Besides walking among the critters and learning about how farms work with exhibits and daily cow milking demonstrations, make sure to check the calendar for other weekend family activities like pony rides, metalsmith demonstrations and square dance lessons and pony rides. Afterward, check out animals from other corners of the world or learn more about the wilder animals in the state on the indoor/outdoor Minnesota Trail.

Oliver Kelley Farm (April 1-May 27)

Stop by on the weekends for hands-on learning about what goes on at the farm. The Kelley Farm has been around since the 1860s and is still functional—with a little help sewing, pumping water and completing animal care chores from visitors like you. Costumed staff will show you the lay of the land and tell you about the farm’s history, and the added Farm Lab where you can see what farming has looked like since the 1900s to modern day.

I wanna be the very best
At looking at my phone
To catch them is my real test
And not get hit by cars
I will travel across the land
Swiping strong and true
Each Pokémon to understand
The candy that’s inside

I’ll stop my Weird Al Yankovic impression here.

While the excitement has cooled off a bit since its release, the game that swept mobile devices by storm and had hoards of people staring down and swiping at their screens while seemingly wandering around aimlessly is still alive and well. Niantic, the game’s creator, has done a pretty good job at keeping people interested with the release of second and third generation Pokémon, raid battles, and legendaries for eager trainers to fill out their Pokédex—Professor Oak would be so proud. But if you’re just as tired as I am at catching Pidgeys, Sentrets and Swinubs—don’t get me wrong, Pidgey, you’re great, I just don’t need 1,000 of you—you might have a little more luck with these trainer-tested X marks the spots. Disclaimer: you are not guaranteed to catch anything outside the norm, but these hotspots are known for being home to a wealth of player activity, rare spawns, nests and raids.

Pokemon GO party in Edina Mn at Centennial Lakes Plaza Park! pic.twitter.com/pGKeXivIfS

— KoopaGDC (@Koopatroopa787) July 9, 2016

Centennial Lakes Park

Nestled in Edina, Centennial Lakes Park was at one point a Dratini goldmine at the game’s inception—ah, the good ol’ days. And while the Dratini may have moved on to greener pastures, the spot’s popularity hasn’t faded. Thanks to four Pokéstops situated right next to each other, trainers can often be spotted luring the quad in hopes that the more elusive ‘mons are attracted to their eventual captured fate. In addition, the park is host to gyms—and where there are gyms there are raids—and mini golf and paddleboats to enjoy.

Victory Memorial Parkway

A proverbial Yellow Brick Road of Pokémon, Victory Memorial Parkway is reminiscent of walking down a grocery store aisle. But instead of cans of green beans or Cinnamon Toast Crunch lining the shelves, it’s Pokéstop, after Pokéstop, after Pokéstop thanks to a number of memorials lining the path. And while you aren’t able to shop for specific Pokémon like you are items in a grocery store, your odds of meeting other trainers—and sought after Pokémon—are through the roof.

State Fair Grounds

Now of course the best time to visit this spot is the 12-day window at the tail-end of summer when nearly 2 million visitors make their way through the gates and turn styles for the Minnesota State Fair, but the gyms, Pokéstops and trainers don’t call it quits when the fair folds up shop. Players on the prowl for the rarest of Pokémon and raids can still be found scouring the grounds year-round. But if you’re lucky enough to visit during fair time, and the sheer amount of trainers luring every Pokéstop in sight and filling every raid within the first 10 seconds aren’t enough to get you to venture out, the food will. Nearly 500 foods available at 300 food concessions are available to provide players with plenty of fuel—and I’m talking food, not battery life.

This is the Mall of America. pic.twitter.com/VxEmDwYnJf

— Brian Shea @ GDC (@BrianPShea) July 16, 2016

Mall of America

It should come as no surprise that one of the biggest tourist attractions in the country is an oasis of ‘mons. Spread out among all four levels and Nickelodeon Universe, trainers can catch ‘em all while dining at Rainforest Café, shoe shopping at DSW or riding the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Shell Shock ride—just kidding, don’t do this one.

Rice Park

In the heart of St. Paul is a park of legend to local trainers. Known for spawning wild Aerodactyl, Machamp and the legendary Dragonite, Rice Park is one of the most popular spots to play Pokémon Go in all of Minneapolis and St. Paul. While the park’s size is nothing to write home about, its central location, amount of Pokéstops and gyms, and rare Pokémon sightings make it a real life Safari Zone.

Even though Easter feels a little early this year, none of our Twin Cities restaurants were caught off guard. Check out 28 Easter brunches happening in 2018. They’re all fantastic, but we couldn’t help but tell you a little more about four of our favorites:

Nicollet Island Inn Easter Brunch. Even on a normal day, the Nicollet Island Inn is one of the most quaint and idyllic places you can eat in Minneapolis because of its Mississippi River views and antique detailing, and on Easter they tailor the menu and the atmosphere to create the sunny and charming brunch you’ve been looking for. Enjoy a five-course Scandinavian meal (three course for the kids!) that begins with fresh pastries, has multiple options for each course that include quiche, creamy cauliflower soup and Swedish meatballs (of course), and ends with chocolate mousse or almond genoise cake.

St. Genevieve Easter Brunch. A two-course prixe menu provides the perfect meal to fill you up without leaving you too drowsy while you’re visiting with family. Besides spring-focused dishes like salmon tartare, terrine of spring hen and stewed chick peas, other accompaniments include Spyhouse coffee, sparkling beverages, oysters, beignets, carrot crepe cakes and more.

Surly Easter Brunch 2018. Surly knows just how to blend an endless buffet, comfort and festivities for their Easter Brunch. From 10 a.m.-4 p.m., you have your choice of food from pastries, cheese and meats, a carving station, a seafood station and a huge main buffet area that includes breakfast and side favorites. Everything goes down easy with the Surly brews on tap plus some specialty infusions. To make the brunch even better, at 12:30 p.m. there’s an Easter Egg Hunt with, as they eloquently put it, “a guy in an Easter Bunny suit.”

Windows on Minnesota at the Marquette Hotel Easter Brunch. Windows on Minnesota event space is aptly named for its floor-to-ceiling windows that provide expansive views of the Minneapolis skyline. To add even more ambiance, the Marquette has slotted live music, and for fun, they made sure the Easter bunny would be there, too. Enjoy a suite of options that include truffle risotto with mixed mushrooms, assorted cheese cakes, and lamb leg stuffed with pine nut, garlic and pesto.

Pre-Easter Bunny Brunch: Lakeshore Grill at Macy’s, American, at Ridgedale March 24, 35 and 31; at Southdale, March 25

Afton House Inn Holiday Brunch, American, Afton

Axels Easter Brunch, American, metro locations

Betty’s Eggstraordinary Easter Brunch at Betty Danger’s Country Club, Mexican, Minneapolis

Birch’s on the Lake Easter Brunch, American, Long Lake

Bonfire Easter Brunch Buffet, American, metro locations

Buca di Beppo Easter Weekend, Italian, Minneapolis

Cafe Lurcat Easter Brunch, American, Minneapolis

The Capital Grille, American, Minneapolis

Citizen Easter Brunch Buffet, American, St. Paul

Cosmos Easter Brunch at the Loews Hotels, American, Minneapolis

Crooners Lounge & Supper Club Easter Joy, with gospel and R&B singers Robert Robinson and Gwen Matthews, American, Minneapolis

Fogo de Chao, Brazilian steak house, Minneapolis

It’s Greek to Me 2018 Easter Brunch & Dinner, Mediterranean, Minneapolis

Hazellewood Grill and Tap Room Easter Brunch, American, Tonka Bay

McCormick & Schmick’s, seafood and steaks, Minneapolis

Mercury Dining Room and Rail Easter Brunch family style, American, Minneapolis

Ninetwentyfive Easter Brunch Buffet at Hotel Landing, New American, Wayzata

Pazzaluna Easter Brunch, Italian, St. Paul

Public Kitchen + Bar Easter Brunch (with Easter bunny), American, St. Paul

Rudolphs Easter Sunday, barbecue, Minneapolis

St. Paul Grill Easter Brunch, American, St. Paul

Stella’s Fish Cafe Easter Brunch, seafood, Minneapolis

Urban Eatery Easter Brunch, American, Minneapolis

Monday

7th Street Social
7 p.m.
Head to this St. Paul restaurant to exercise your brain muscles with Trivia Mafia, one of the largest and most popular bar trivia groups in the Midwest. Enjoy happy hour pricing on craft beer, cocktails and appetizers (we’re talking $5 homemade Reuben bites, beer cheese fries and more).

Tuesday

Republic
9 p.m.
Trivia Mafia is at it again at this craft beer bar—one of the Top 100 Beer Bars in the country three years running—located a few minutes from downtown Minneapolis. With just about every beer you could ever wish for on tap, there is also a dinner menu that goes well beyond the typical pub fare. Play for prizes, gift cards and (most importantly) bragging rights.

Lakes & Legends Brewing Company
7 p.m.
Tuesday nights are trivia nights at Lakes & Legends; join the brewery for Trivia Mafia, food and its latest craft beers in the taproom.

Merlins Rest Pub
7:30 p.m.
Merlins Rest has its own type of trivia—Merlins Rest Pub Quiz. “Minister of Culture” Bill Watkins is the quizmaster and his subjects range from sports to things you’ve probably never even heard of before. The event fills up quickly so make sure you arrive plenty early!

Wednesday

Fair State Brewing Coop
7 p.m.
This member-owned craft brewery in Northeast Minneapolis hosts several rounds of trivia every Wednesday night in its cozy taproom. Challenge your memory on one-hit wonders, obscure politicians from the 1970s and more. And don’t forget to bring food from one of the neighboring restaurants–we recommend El Taco Riendo located just a few doors down the street.

Crooked Pint Ale House
8 p.m.
Join the Crooked Pint Ale House for its Sassy Lassy movie and music trivia event every Wednesday night. While correct answers are preferred, “wit, grit or lip” responses may award participants sassy points—the winner takes home a $50 gift certificate to the Crooked Pint.

Stanley’s Northeast Bar Room
8 p.m.
Located in Northeast Minneapolis, pick from Stanley’s selection of 36 rotating craft beer and order some appetizers while you play (and win) Get a Clu Trivia with friends.

Glam Doll Donuts
7 p.m.
What’s better than doughnuts? Doughnuts and trivia of course. Join Glam Doll for its Trivia Against Humanity event every Wednesday night. Participants receive points for factual responses as well as funny answers to questions that go right over their heads. Grab a doughnut and a beer before the questions begin.

Thursday

New Bohemia Wurst + BierHaus
8:30 p.m.
A little bit of Germany right in Northeast Minneapolis and Uptown. Choose from a variety of gourmet sausages like chicken and apple and Cajun andouille, or get adventurous with the rattlesnake rabbit jalapeno. Pair it with a pint of craft beer and Sporcle-style trivia, where you bet points on each correct (or incorrect) answer, and you have the makings for a fun evening.

Sporty’s Pub and Grill
9:30 p.m.
Hosted by Mark and Kyle (Sporty’s dubs them the masters of dry humor and hilarity), Sporty’s invites teams to put their knowledge to the test every Thursday while enjoying food and drinks.

Friday

Adagio’s Pizza Factory
9 p.m.
Sure, it’s a bit of a drive, but this trivia night is well worth a few extra minutes in the car. Adagio’s has long been a local favorite among residents of the northern suburb of New Brighton. Enjoy a slice while you test your knowledge at their bar trivia.

Saturday

331 Club
7:30 p.m.
Maybe you’ve participated in bar trivia before but what about a bar spelling bee? Partnering with Trivia Mafia, 331 Club hosts The Drinkin’ Spelling Bee on the first and third Saturdays of every month. You can buy your tickets here.

Sunday

The Herkimer Pub and Brewery
8 p.m.
This Uptown joint hosts trivia on Sunday evenings. If winning food, drinks and gift cards isn’t enough to get you through the front door, consider the trivia drink specials: $5 Jameson, $7 BFF (beer and a shot) and more.