I know there is some nervousness as the trade deadline looms and as a further diversion during this two day break in the schedule, I'd like some input on places to visit in Minnesota. Occasionally, one of the posters from elsewhere in the world will joke about visiting us here in Minnesota or at least taking in a game. I know most foreign visitors probably don't even consider coming here when they come to the US, but if someone was coming what would you recommend they see? (I also love visiting things that are new to me.)

I'd suggest the North Shore drive (and going all the way around to Sioux Saint Marie which no one here ever seems to do.) Eagle Mountain is also amazing and well worth the trek. (It wouldn't be extraordinary in Montana or Colorado, but it is hard to believe you are in Mn when you are up there.) Another unexpected pleasure is Split Rock Creek, in extreme southwest Minnesota. A canyon in Minnesota! Actually the more spectacular parts are in South Dakota.

Lanesboro and Ely are my two favorite small towns. I love the boundary waters because the wilderness as an experience is becoming more and more remote. What would you pick? What are the gems or little known highlights of the TC metro area?