4 Tips for a Stellar Vacation in Bloomington
If you’re taking a vacation in Bloomington, you can find many activities and attractions that will make your trip unforgettable. Read on for some tips for your trip to this Minneapolis suburb. 
Mall of America
We’ll start with a big one: the Mall of America. This iconic mall, the largest in the United States in floor area, has drawn huge crowds since it opened in Bloomington in 1992. In addition to more than 520 stores, there are great spots for family fun, such as Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium and Nickelodeon Universe.
While kids crave the rides at Nickelodeon Universe, adults love to laugh at Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy, or enjoy a number of events from concerts to fashion shows. Forty million people from all over the world visit the mall annually, and now you can come and see why. You can keep the Mall of America front and center by staying in the on-site hotel, but be sure to see what else Bloomington has to offer.
Bloomington Center for the Arts
Bloomington Center for the Arts, in the north end of the Bloomington Civic Plaza, is home to nine arts organizations. One is Artistry, a nonprofit that produces theater and visual arts for 82,000 people within the region. Stage productions, arts-centered community development, educational projects, and exhibitions draw numerous visitors to Artistry, which also provides space to two art galleries. Check the Bloomington Center for the Arts website to see if Artistry or one of the other local arts organizations, such as the Bloomington Chorale or the Bloomington Symphony Orchestra, has an event scheduled. Read the rest of this entry »
4 Tips to Keep Your Ford Edge in Top Shape
After you buy your Ford Edge, the work is just beginning. It is important to keep your vehicle in top shape. A well-maintained vehicle reduces your fuel costs, and regular preventative maintenance helps you get the most out of your vehicle and avoid costly significant repairs in the future. Follow these four steps to keep your Ford Edge in top shape. 
- Take Advantage of Your Ford Pass
The Ford Pass is vital to your vehicle’s health because it alerts you when your vehicle needs attention. Check your fluids from the palm of your hand so you know if you are low and need to add anything. You can also use the app to get your service alerts. It will even alert you if something needs professional attention under the hood.
- Check Your Tires
Checking your tires is essential to keep your Edge in top shape. Proper tire pressure helps increase your fuel economy while good treads are an important safety measure. You can either buy or borrow a tire pressure gauge from a friend. Refer to your owner’s manual for the ideal pressure for your tires. Check it regularly, especially if you live in a climate with extreme temperature ranges. Read the rest of this entry »
Don’t Miss These Autumn Events in Bloomington
With all the events going on in Bloomington, Minnesota, this fall, you’ll want to plan ahead and not miss a thing. Whether you’re an athlete or a shopaholic, you can just drive out and join the fun. See what your local theater troupes and community recreation groups have to offer this year. 
‘Our Town’ Performance
Artistry Theater and Visual Arts will perform “Our Town” Sept. 6-29 in the Schneider Theater at the Bloomington Center for the Arts. Thornton Wilder, a Pulitzer Prize winner, composed this romantic drama about the residents of Grover’s Corners, New Hampshire.
Artistry is located at 1800 W. Old Shakopee Road. Performances are available on on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and weekends.
Making Strides of the Twin Cities
On Saturday, October 26, 2019 take a long morning walk and join the fight against breast cancer at the same time. The Mall of America, located at 60 E. Broadway in Bloomington, is hosting this walk as a charity fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. The walk starts at 8 a.m., with same day registration available on-site at 7:00 a.m.
‘Reclaiming Our Grandmothers’
Head back to the Bloomington Center for the Arts and visit the Atrium Gallery between Sept. 13 and Nov. 3 to see Zamara Cuyún’s paintings in the exhibition, “Reclaiming Our Grandmothers”. Through her art, viewers will see Guatemala in its past and present from a woman’s perspective. The opening reception is September 13, from 6-8 p.m. Read the rest of this entry »
What’s New With Ford
Every season, Ford comes out with brand-new vehicles equipped with innovative features. What new and exciting models will Ford release in 2020? Here are five you will love to test-drive. 
- The 2021 Ford Bronco
The rugged and powerful Bronco SUV is among the world’s most popular four-wheel-drive cars. The model originated in the 1960s and is still going strong in popularity. This year, the 2021 Bronco, which will be available for purchase in 2020, is a midsize SUV with tons of high-tech features and a brand-new style. Stay tuned for updates about upcoming developments and amazing new features for this model.
- The 2020 Ford Escape
The 2020 Escape is aptly named, as it’s large and luxurious enough to take the whole family on a fun journey. The 2020 Escape boasts a roomy interior and impressive new technology features, making this car a must-have for your 2020 getaway. Consider, for example, its new Ford Co-Pilot360 technology, a special class of driver assistance that includes traffic alerts, a precollision assistance program, auto-emergency braking, a lane-keeping system, and even more accessories and optional upgrades to improve your driving.
- The 2020 Ford Super Duty
If you are in need of a truck for work as well as pleasure, look no further than the 2020 Ford Super Duty. A truck of this magnitude requires superpower, and so, it has been supplied with an impressive powertrain gas engine and extra-strong transmission. The F-600 engine takes either diesel or gas, and you can customize your purchase further, opting for deatures such as a 6.7-liter PowerStroke diesel engine or a 7.3-liter V-8. You can also choose between a 4×2 or 4×4 drivetrain. You’ll enjoy a new 10-speed transmission, as well. Read the rest of this entry »
There’s More to Bloomington Than the Mall of America
Bloomington, Minnesota, is a thriving city located outside Minneapolis that offers diverse attractions — most notably the Mall of America. Shouldered by 39 miles of reserved parklands and wetlands, Bloomington is a convenient 20-minute drive from Minneapolis and home to an array of activities beyond the city’s famed mall. Here are a few to check out while you’re in the area. 
- Take a Journey Through Minnehaha Falls Park
Gorgeous Minnehaha Falls is part of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board and operates under the umbrella of the National Park Service. The park is legendary. A product of landscape architect Horace W.S. Cleveland’s vision, it was designed in the late 1800s as a component of the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway system. Take in the beautiful hills, well-maintained trails, and the bridges that run over the waterways.
If you are interested in history, you will certainly enjoy the sites found within the park, including examples of 19th-century transport and architecture (such as the Victorian train depot and the John H. Stevens House built in 1849). The natural beauty makes this attraction worth the visit, particularly for photographers. The impressive 53-foot falls run into the Minnehaha Creek on the edge of the Mississippi.
- Visit Prince’s Domain at Paisley Park
Once you’ve wrapped up your excursion into nature, consider a visit to Prince’s recording studio. It is larger and more significant than you might imagine, as Paisley Park includes not only the recording area but also a large estate. On-site tours give you the opportunity to experience what the musical recording process would have been like, complete with wardrobes and instruments. You can only purchase tickets online, so plan for this musical journey in advance. Read the rest of this entry »
The 2019 Ford Explorer Trims Explained
The Explorer is one of Ford’s most-loved vehicles. With a world-class engine and premium features, it’s the ultimate SUV for going on a fabulous journey with friends and family. With a number of trim levels to choose from, how do you know which one is right for you? Here’s the lowdown on each 2019 Explorer trim’s features. 
XLT Trim
The XLT trim offers drivers a few options. You can choose from the XLT four-door, front-wheel drive or the XLT four-door 4×4. You can also choose between a combined fuel efficiency of 21 or 23 mpg. However, all XLTs have an impressive 290 horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 engine, six-speed automatic transmission, and seats for six to seven people, making the XLT a great choice for a practical and premium ride. You’ll also enjoy comfortable seating in this SUV, due to its eight-way power driver’s seat that’s height-adjustable and has additional lumbar support. Folks riding in the back will love passenger cushion tilts and comfortable armrests.
Sport Trim
If you are interested in a sassy, sporty style, then you will enjoy the Ford Explorer 2019 sport trim. This trim’s features include a trail-blazing 365-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 engine. You’ll adore the look of 20-inch alloy wheels and rear coil springs, as well as assets such as rack and pinion steering, speed-sensing, electric power-assist pinion steering, power steering, and sport suspension. The sport trim has a slick exterior with black handles, body-colored front and rear bumpers, a black grille, and a spoiler. For long journeys, you might find the power liftgate, trailer hitch, and roof rack load especially useful. Read the rest of this entry »
3 Best Burgers in Bloomington, MN
It isn’t always easy to find a great burger. If it’s juicy and well-flavored, and comes with hot, crispy fries, you are in heaven. Here are some places in Bloomington you may want to try the next time you are looking for a delicious burger. 
- Shantytown Bar and Grill
This bar and grill is considered to be “Bloomington’s little secret,” according to an article in StarTribune in 2018. The no. 1 seller on the menu is the Shanty burger, which includes cheddar and Swiss cheese, applewood-smoked bacon, and guacamole.
Other burgers highlighted as bestsellers on their menu include the chili cheeseburger with homemade chili, shredded cheese, onions, and sour cream. There is also the Mexican burger, which has seasoned sour cream, melted pepper cheese, and jalapenos. Finally, the Outback burger is prepped with tender cactus, green salsa, and pepper cheese. There are also a variety of appetizers and chicken sandwiches offered at this restaurant. You can also visit their Facebook page to check out their featured burger of the week.
Shantytown Bar and Grill is located at 8512 Pillsbury Ave. S. and is open Monday to Thursday from 11 a.m.-11 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m.-12 a.m. Read the rest of this entry »
What to Expect from the 2020 Ford Escape
Improved both inside and out, the 2020 Escape ushers in the fourth generation of Ford’s top-selling crossover. Sitting lower to the ground and more car-like in appearance, the Detroit automaker is banking on its sedan and hatchback fans to gravitate toward the Escape as Ford discontinues all of its cars and hatchbacks for the 2020 model year. Stylish, versatile, and packed with extras, the 2020 Ford Escape is one of the most anticipated releases of the year. 
More Interior Space
Although the 2020 Ford Escape has a lower clearance and shorter proportions, it’s actually roomier than its predecessor. The crossover still has seating for five, but with a longer and wider body, it has more legroom, shoulder room, and hip room than ever. Behind the rear seats, a 37.5-cubic foot storage area provides even more storage space, eclipsing the 2019 model by 3.5 cubic feet.
All trims of the 2020 Ford Escape also boast sliding rear seats that move on a 6-inch track. This allows easy access to the rear cargo area without opening the tailgate. For parents, this is a welcomed feature for cleaning, as well as rearranging kids and cargo. Read the rest of this entry »
Take One of These 4 Community Classes in Bloomington
Located 10 miles south of Minneapolis, Bloomington, Minnesota, is a vibrant town that has plenty of nightlife, attractions, and other top destinations. However, if you’re tired of the same social routine or you’re looking to break out of a slump, Bloomington offers community classes to indulge an interest or learn a new hobby. From social interaction to creating a new you, here are some ideas to enrich the mind, soul, and body. 
- Bloomington Adult Enrichment Classes
If you want to find a new hobby or learn something you’ve always wanted to but never had the time, check out Bloomington’s adult enrichment classes. With over 250 courses designed for working adults, you can indulge your curiosity with courses in foreign languages, dance, culinary skills, financial literacy, home improvement, or computer skills.
Courses are available throughout the year, but make sure to sign up before the deadline. All classes take place at the Bloomington Community Education Center, located at 2575 W. 88th St. in Bloomington. Read the rest of this entry »
5 Places to Visit in Mall of America
Covering 4.87 million square feet, the sprawling Mall of America is one of Minnesota’s most famed and acclaimed attractions. If you’ve never been to the world’s 12th largest mall, the sheer size of it can leave you feeling overwhelmed. Fortunately, this guide will help you discover the best things to do in the Mall of America and where to spend your time. 
- Nickelodeon Universe
If you have kids, chances are you won’t leave the Mall of America without taking a few rides in Nickelodeon Universe. With 25 rides for all ages, you can zip through inversions on the SpongeBob SquarePants Rock Bottom Plunge or cool down with a ride on the Log Chute. Other attractions include the Xscape Entertainment Center with hundreds of arcade games, Moose Mountain Adventure Golf, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Shell Shock sky fly. Tickets start at $3.60 for a single ride or $36.99 for an all-day pass.
- Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy
When you’re in need of a chuckle, Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy has you covered. This adults-only venue has several top comedians live throughout the week with headlining acts performing over the weekends. Past acts have included the likes of Jimmy Kimmel, Jimmy Fallon, Jay Pharaoh, Bobby Lee, and Bryan Callen.
Between acts or while you’re waiting for the show to start, grab a cocktail or beer from the bar, or order from their extensive menu that includes sandwiches, pizza, salads, and their world-famous poutine. Read the rest of this entry »
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