Paddleboarders in Alexandria
photo by John Magnoski, courtesy Explore Alexandria Tourism
The pressures on Minnesotans vary, but we all have them. There’s work, family, school, the world, an empty fridge, nothing good on Netflix, you name it. Even plotting a few days’ respite from it all can be a pressure point. How about waking up somewhere else without feeling like you need another vacation by the trip’s end? These five options are all doable this spring.
Alexandria
Lake Pepin
Wayzata
Sioux Falls, SD
Bayfield, WI
Gear Up to Get Out
Spring weather ranges from lion to lamb, so flexible packing choices are a must. Make these fashionable and practical upgrades to minimize convenience store runs and maximize weekend adventure time.
photo by TJ Turner
1. Duluth Trading Company can protect your vehicle’s interior from spring’s muddy paws. Try Scout’s Convertible Seat Saver ($59.95) or see other styles at Bloomington, Duluth, Fridley, Red Wing, or Woodbury locations. duluthtrading.com
2. Add sparkle to your feet with Minnesota-made Itasca Leathergoods’ Cota moccasins. The rainbow of options includes leather-soled, silvery gunmetal ($158) and comfy crepe-soled, rubber-bottomed mocs in shades such as lilac, sunshine gold, and salmon. itascamoccasin.com
3. Add a layer of warmth and color under spring skirts with these asymmetrical striped footed or footless tights ($43) from Minnesota’s Heim-Made. heimmade.com
4. Pick up a dressy Bison Leather Market Tote, at left, ($285) from the Minnesota-made Duluth Pack Store. The marbled, buttery-textured leather is sturdier than cowhide. Duluth Pack also upgraded its all-purpose Deluxe Market Tote with a leather base. It’s available in 14 canvas choices. duluthpack.com
5. Stay hands-free for an umbrella or suitcase in your pocket-rich, periwinkle trench coat ($195) by SCOTTeVEST. The travel company specializes in vests and jackets loaded with places to keep phones, wallets, glasses, and even water bottles or tablets. scottevest.com
