JamieBLT

I can probably count on one hand the number of times I’ve visited my father’s hometown in Minnesota. When I do visit, it’s evident that not many people from San Diego, California venture to Mankato, Minnesota, a town just about two hours away from Minneapolis/ St.Paul. My Driver’s License is always questioned by the bouncers/store clerks etc.  and after scrutinizing every inch of my ID (Yes sir, I’ve been over 21 for quite sometime now, let me in!) the question that follows is always, “What brings you all the way out to Mankato?” Well my answer to that is, “What wouldn’t bring me out here?”

Mankato is an awesome town where you can find stunning natural beauty, rich history, and really genuine people.  When you come here, you will totally understand the meaning of “Minnesota Nice.” I always feel right at home. This is why I can’t get enough of Mankato:

1.  Minneopa Falls

Minneopa roughly translated means “water falling twice” in the Dakota Language.  It is an amazing state park where you can camp, hike, and witness the majestic beauty of the water falls and Minneopa Valley. I hiked down to the falls two times this last trip, and even brought my grandma along once! She was such a trooper!

Some of my cousins and I decided to make a second trip so that Tim could bring out his fancy camera.

My aunt Lisa told me that apparently my great-great grandparents had a house downstream from the falls. Could that be the reason I feel so at home in Minneopa?

Minneopa State Park is also home to Seppman Mill, a former windmill built between 1862 – 1864.  It’s adorable!

2. A trip to Minnesota wouldn’t be complete without a day (or two, or three) at the lake! After all,  it’s not called the “Land of 10, 000 Lakes” for nothing! Lake water is definitely different from the chilly, salty ocean water I’m accustomed to, but it’s just as fun! My cousins taught me how to tube, ride a jet ski, and even tried to teach me how to water ski. Unfortunately the water ski thing for me was a bust…

My boyfriend is an amazing editor and this was his first time in Minnesota! Check out this video he put together of some time we spent on the lake. It’ll give you a little taste of the fun we had! We borrowed Keith Urban’s awesome tune “Days Go By” for our video. We don’t own the song in case this isn’t obvious to YouTube copy right guidelines blah blah blah…

3. I’m proud to say that my family roots on my dad’s side go deep in Mankato. The Lairds have lived in Mankato since the 1850s! This last trip was special to me because I got some time to do a little hands-on family research. I only had an afternoon so I had to put that B.A. in History to the test and do some speedy research.

If you are looking to explore a place with incredible outdoor activities, a warm community feel, and nice folks, look no further than Minnesota. I know you’ll have as much fun as I always do! Of course, it does help to have kick ass family to hang out with while there!

Until next time Mankato!