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 »
In its final year of production, the 2019 Ford Fusion aims to shore up its legacy as one of the top midsize sedans in recent memory. Packed with features and style that leave European models envious, the Fusion is the complete package. However, one thing it might do better the rest is its functionality as a commuter car. With a comfortable interior, loads of tech, and unbeatable driving experience, the 2019 Ford Fusion makes the drive to the office just a tad more bearable. 
- Six Engine Options to Maximize Power or Efficiency
Whether you’re looking to save money on gas or zoom your way through congestion, the 2019 Ford Fusion has a model to meet your needs. A 175-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder is the stock engine, providing up to 31 mpg on the highway.
A 245-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo-four and a 181-horsepower 1.5-liter turbo-four highlight the two four-cylinder turbocharged options, providing 29 mpg and 34 mpg on the highway respectively. For some ferocity on the pavement, an upgrade to the turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6 is a no-brainer. Available solely on the Sport trim, this monster boasts 325 horsepower, yet it doesn’t let efficiency slide, posting 26 mpg on the highway.
Two hybrid options are also available to lower your carbon footprint and maximize your driving distance. The plug-in variant features a 25-mile range on a single charge, while the regular hybrid boasts 41 mpg combined. Read the rest of this entry »
Don’t let summer pass you by without taking the time to make memories with the entire family this year. Check out some of these locations near Bloomington, Minnesota, where everyone is sure to have a good time.
Valleyfair
An amusement park is a great way to celebrate the summer season. Valleyfair’s roller coasters, such as the Delirious, Corkscrew, Excalibur, and High Roller are perfect for families with older kids who are looking for thrill-seeking excitement. Valleyfair also has plenty of smaller attractions for families with younger kids, with rides such as Planet Snoopy, Bumper Cars, and Mad Mouse. On a hot summer day, Soak City is the perfect place to cool off. Soak up the sun while you and your family enjoy the pool, water slides, and splash areas.
Check out one of the live shows at Vallyfair, including Peanuts Showplace with Snoopy and the gang and live music in the water park. Treat your taste buds to one of the many dining and drink options available in the park. Keep an eye out for a few of the upcoming summer events at Valleyfair, including the Food Truck Fest, the July 4th BBQ, Minnesota Eats, and Corn Feast. Read the rest of this entry »
The Ford F-150 remains the best-selling pickup truck in history. With powerful performance and a series of accommodating interior features, it’s no surprise that the 2019 Ford F-150 Super Duty continues with this trend. Check out a few of the best features you’re sure to enjoy with the 2019 Ford F-150.
Power
The 2019 Super Duty is powered standard by a 6.2-liter flex-fuel V-8 engine for 430 pound-feet of torque. For more power, upgrade to the available 6.7-liter Power Stroke turbo diesel engine for 450 horsepower and 935 pound-feet of torque. The 6.7-liter engine comes with a driver-activated exhaust brake that controls pressure and improves control on the steepest of declines.
Opt for the F-150 off-road package, which includes an electronic shift-on-the-fly system that lets you quickly shift to four-wheel drive. The off-road package also comes with a 360-degree camera system that helps you monitor upcoming terrains. Additional features include an electronic-locking rear differential, a hill descent control, skid plates, off-roading tuned shock absorbers, and a special FX4 off-road decal sticker.
Performance
The advanced technologies of the 2019 F-150 Super Duty make its performance among the best in its class. The terrain management system enables you to swap among seven drive modes, including Normal, Sport, Slippery, Deep Snow/Sand, Tow/Haul, Baja, and Rock Crawl. The trail control feature lets you set the cruise control feature on, even when off-roading on the most difficult of terrains.
Tow in confidence with the 2019 Super Duty with a best- Read the rest of this entry »
Perk Up Your Day at One of These Bloomington Cafes
What better way is there to start your day than with a fresh cup of coffee and a hot breakfast? Whether you’re on the go, catching up with a friend, or looking for a spot to relax and sip, these Bloomington, Minnesota, cafes are worth checking out. 
Bruegger’s Bagels Southtown
Bruegger’s Bagels Southtown is a great place to get a fresh New York-style bagel and a hot cup of morning coffee. Each bagel is kettle-cooked and then baked in a stone hearth oven so that you can enjoy the authentic New York taste. You’ll also find breakfast and lunch sandwiches, salads, soups, and desserts on the menu. A few of the must-try bagels are the cheesy hashbrown, the jalapeno cheddar, and the asiago parmesan. Make sure you try one of the flavored cream cheeses, such as the sriracha honey or the honey walnut.
Subscribe to the Bruegger’s Bagels Inner Circle for exclusive offers and discounts on your favorite menu items. As a bonus, you’ll get a free bagel and cream cheese just for signing up.
Mugshots Coffee Company
Mugshots Coffee Company is locally owned and operated and has a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere. It’s a great place to meet up with a friend for some good conversation and a delicious cup of coffee. The staff at Mugshots is committed to creating an environment that will make you feel like you’re part of the family. Mugshots often hosts special events such as family game night, open-mic night, and comedy night. Read the rest of this entry »
2019 Escape or Explorer – Which One Fills Your Bill?
The 2019 Ford Escape and Explorer are both exceptional SUV choices. Consider a few of the differences between the two to determine which Ford SUV is right for you.
Interior Features
One of the biggest differences between the 2019 Escape and Explorer is the size. The Ford Escape can comfortably seat up to five passengers with a maximum of 68 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Explorer can hold up to seven passengers with a maximum of 80.7 cubic feet of cargo space. The Explorer offers third-row power-folding seats, and the Escape has 60/40 split-fold-flat rear seat backs. Each option offers an easy load-in process with a hands-free, foot-activated liftgate.
These 2019 SUVs feature the Sync 3 driver infotainment system. You can sync your smartphone via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for a personalized drive including hands-free text messages and phone calls. The Sync 3 also pairs with Alexa for over 30,000 Amazon skills. With the FordPass app, you can connect to your vehicle for 4G Wi-Fi. Ford Escape drivers have the option to upgrade to satellite radio for even more music streaming choices. Read the rest of this entry »
What the Wear on Your Tires Says About Your Driving
Did you know your tires say a lot about the way you drive? Next time you glance at your car’s wheels, what will you discover? By regularly checking your tires’ tread, you can keep a handle on potentially dangerous issues and expensive repairs. Let’s find out what the wear on your tires says about your driving. 
You’re Not Properly Inflating
If you notice that the outside edge of your tires is wearing away faster than the inside, your tires are underinflated. Underinflation causes stress to the sidewalls, making your tires crack and bulge.
On the other hand, overinflated tires will have a center wear pattern. Overinflating changes the shape of the wheel so your car sits only on the center of each tire, causing less tread surface to have contact with the road.
Both situations can be dangerous. To avoid uneven wear in the future, check your tire pressure often. Ensure to inflate them to the number listed in your owner’s manual or on the sticker inside your door frame. By keeping your tires at the proper pressure, they’ll last longer, and you’ll decrease the risk of damage to other essential parts. Read the rest of this entry »
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