5 Top Ford SUVs for 2020Whether you’re looking for an adventure-ready SUV, a family vehicle, or just a vehicle that can give you the space and power you need when you need it, Ford’s SUV lineup has you covered. There are plenty of options to choose from, each with their own benefits. Here are Ford’s greatest SUVs for the 2020 model year: 

  1. EcoSport

The 2020 EcoSport is the least expensive SUV Ford has to offer, which makes it a top choice for shoppers. Though it boasts a low price tag, it still gives its drivers everything they need for a dynamic and comfortable ride. It’s also the smallest crossover SUV on this list, making the EcoSport a top choice for city-bound and teenage drivers. Efficient, easy to drive, and fun, the EcoSport starts the Ford SUV lineup off at a good point. 

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3 Awesome Animal Encounters Around BloomingtonFrom farm animals to a hive of bees, there’s an exciting animal kingdom full of adventures right out your front door in Minnesota. From the meek to the savage, untame your day outside. Whether you’re a family with kids or you’re young at heart, discover these three awesome places for an animal encounter around Bloomington.

  1. Minnesota Zoo

Located at 13000 Zoo Blvd in nearby Apple Valley, Minnesota Zoo is a prime local destination where you can glimpse some of the world’s most exciting and exotic creatures, including sharks. The zoo’s spectacular Tropics Trail features floor to ceiling underwater viewing windows that give visitors an up-close look at these majestic and terrifying creatures. Don’t miss the chance to watch the savage beauty of resident sharks during their daily feedings.

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4 Reasons Eco-Conscious Motorists Love the 2020 Ford Fusion HybridThe 2020 Fusion Hybrid is a terrific choice for earth-conscious shoppers looking for a four-door sedan with an upscale interior and loads of high-tech features. From its sporty handling to its performance at the pump, there’s a lot to like about this hybrid. Here are four reasons eco-conscious motorists like you love this new Ford and why you should put it on your shortlist.

  1. Fuel-Efficient Powertrain

The Fusion Hybrid is sportier than most rivals in the hybrid and electric car arena. It’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine combines nicely with the 88-kW electric motor to produce 188 horsepower. This sedan is quick off the line thanks to the near-instant torque delivered by the continuously variable automatic transmission. It’s a terrific, midsize commuter car and gets an outstanding EPA-estimated 43 mpg in the city and 41 mpg highway.

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Much More Than Shopping at the Mall of AmericaFrom fine dining to an amusement park, it’s no surprise this retail extravaganza is one of the most visited tourist spots in the country. Discover an exciting adventure for the whole family at the Mall of America. It’s so much more than merely shopping.

  1. Get Your Thrill at Nickelodeon Universe

Are you the kind of person that loves white-knuckle thrill rides? Then the Nickelodeon Universe is sure to become your new favorite place in the mall. It sits right in the middle of the complex and touts seven acres of rides and entertainment. This is not your typical mall merry-go-round for the kiddos.

Get ready for 27 heart-wrenching rides, such as the twisting, turning, Fairly Odd Coaster and the inverted, vertical drop of the Spongebob Rock Bottom Plunge. There’s something for the younger kids too, like the Dutchman’s Deck Adventure course or parents can soaring 55 feet above the park thanks to the Barnacle Blast. It’s the longest indoor zip line in North America.

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5 Top Tire Storage Tips Most experienced Minnesotans opt for winter tires when the snow flies. As the weather starts to warm up, Bloomington residents will want to switch back to summer alternatives. Here are five top tips for storing tires, so you’re ready to safely hit the road next winter.

  1. Keep Them Clean

Always give your tires a once-over before putting them away. During the snowy season, tires accumulate plenty of dirt and grime. That gunk will lead to disaster if it sits on your tires all summer long. Use warm soapy water and a tire brush to give your wheels a good scrubbing. Let them dry completely before you pack them up, and skip the dressing or tire gloss this time around.

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Enjoy a Winter Day Cross Country Skiing in BloomingtonWhether you live in Bloomington, Minnesota, or are just visiting, you should take advantage of the winter weather and enjoy a day of cross country skiing. There are several excellent spots in the area to explore while on your skis.

Como Park Ski Center

Como Park Ski Center features more than five kilometers of groomed cross country trails. Rentals are available for skiers who don’t own their own equipment. The center’s friendly and knowledgeable staff offer lessons for all ages and skill levels.  After a day spent skiing on the beautiful, snowy trails, you can warm up at the ski center’s chalet with a cup of hot chocolate.

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Which Ford Escape Should You Drive?Are you considering the five-passenger 2020 Ford Escape but aren’t sure which trim is perfect for your family? As you narrow your choices from five to the perfect one, think about what type of engine you want. You’ll also want to consider any special features that would make it the ideal SUV for you and your family.

S

The S trim features a 60/40 split-folding rear seat that gives you plenty of space for all of your cargo. There is also plenty of room for people with 40.7 inches of legroom in the second row. If you keep the seat up, it has 33.5 cubic feet of space. There are 65.4 cubic feet of space if you have the back seat folded down. The 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine includes auto start/stop technology to increase your fuel mileage.

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Get Out on the Ice at these Bloomington Area Skating RinksWhether you live in Bloomington, Minnesota, or are visiting, it’s well worth you’re time to check out some of the area’s ice skating rinks. Ice skating is an excellent activity that the entire family can enjoy both indoors and outside. Let’s explore some of the area’s best rinks and what they offer.

Bloomington Ice Garden

Bloomington Ice Garden has been a favorite destination for ice skaters since 1970. The facility has three rinks, one of which is Olympic-sized. In addition to open skate sessions, the Bloomington Ice Garden also offers lessons for all ages and skill levels, year-round. The facility also hosts adult and junior hockey leagues.

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Choose Your Ford SUVAre you looking for a new SUV for your next family adventure? Ford offers seven different options for you to consider. As you narrow down your choices, keep in mind how many people typically travel with you and any specific features you need.

EcoSport

This five-passenger SUV features a unique cargo door. Rather than having a liftgate that goes above your head, it has one that swings open like a regular door making it easier to load cargo. It also features an auto start/stop technology. The cargo management system on the SE and above organizes your stuff and gives you an adjustable floor and shelf.

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Weekends are better with brunch and that’s a fact. Bloomington has plenty of places where you can grab some food and mimosa and spend the morning relaxing. Here are the best places to get brunch in Bloomington. 

Uptown Cafe

For a great weekend brunch spot, you have to check out Uptown Cafe. Their brunch menu is available until 2 p.m. You can try out their creme brûlée French toast which is a flaky croissant on top of a vanilla-almond custard. Another one of their specialties is their classic eggs Benedict which is Canadian bacon, two eggs, a toasted English muffin, and hollandaise sauce all served with home fries. Drink wise you should definitely try out their delicious Espresso Martini with is Monopolowa Vodka, fresh espresso, and Cardinal coffee liqueur. Uptown Cafe is located at 102 East Kirkwood Avenue.

Bedrak Cafe

At the Bedrak Cafe, they specialize in American style food. Their Brunchennette menu has some truly delicious items made from scratch. We recommend trying out their vegan Avocado Toasts which is your choice of bread toasted with olive oil and red pepper. They also have individually sized ‘Quiche of the Day’ that is served with one side. You can also try out one of their smoothies or juices for something a little lighter. The Bedrak Cafe is located at 409 South Walnut Street.  Read the rest of this entry »