National Geographic features Minneapolis as a top summer spot in its just-out
list of '10 Best Summer Trips of 2011,' which also includes international destinations.
Minneapolis comes in fourth place while Muskoka Cottage Country, Ontario, Canada, is number one.
The city deserves such praise thanks to its pedestrian- and bike-friendly routes, lively summer cultural events, farmers' markets, and fun baseball-related activities--all things that National Geographic took into consideration.
The story elaborates on some of the city's amenities, including cultural and natural resources: "Survey the vibrant scene from the new CRAVE restaurant rooftop patio near the State Theatre, then grab a bike at the nearest Nice Ride Minnesota kiosk ($5 plus trip fees) and cruise all or part of the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway, a 50-mile urban trail loop. With 22 city lakes and the mighty Mississippi, playing on, in or near the water always is an option."