At A Glance: Exploring the Twin Cities – Fun and Food
Located on the northern edge of Minneapolis and St. Paul, the Twin Cities Gateway location is a Minnesota vacation destination where having a bicycle can be an advantage. Here you will find top-ranked golf courses, Minnesota’s largest outdoor water park, the National Sports Center (the world’s largest amateur sports facility), and countless other family attractions, all accessible from your hotel room by paved trail systems and bike-friendly roads. The Gateway area also offers a stunning natural environment where outdoor recreation opportunities are abundant. Also, there are shopping areas galore that range from your favorite stores to charming and unique boutiques.
A young lady rides her bike along the trail in the Twin Cities Gateway area as the fall colors peak.
Where to Bike In the Area
HaveFunBiking TCGateway Area Map
With nine bike-friendly communities encompassing the Gateway Area, explore and enjoy the beauty of these North metro suburbs with your bike or a rental. With many parks connected by a vast trail system throughout the area, you will have many chances to see and experience Mother Nature as you pursue your favorite outdoor activities here. One of many options when visiting the area is a bike ride along the Mississippi River Trail (MRT).
Below is a brief description of each T.C. Gateway Community and ideas for things to do when you’re not biking. Additionally, places to stay, places to eat, and valuable links to help you Find Your Next Adventure are included.
Area Bike Shop and Rental Services
Car’s Bike Shop | 2661 County Road I, Mounds View, MN 55112 | 763-784-6966
Jerry’s Schwinn | 4136 Coon Rapids Blvd. N.W., Minneapolis, MN 55433, USA| 763- 421-4270
Penn Cycle | 12555 Ulysses Street N.E., Suite 160, Blaine, MN 55434 | 763-432-9430
Pioneer Cycle | 12741 Central Ave. N.E., Blaine 55434 | 763-755-8871
Where to Play When Not Biking
Along with the bike opportunities in the Twin Cities Gateway Area, you will also find Adventure Seaplanes, golf, shopping, aquatic centers, the National Sports Center, and more. Plus, there is the Theatre District, the Mall of America, and more that are just a short drive or train ride away.
Where to Eat
In each of the nine communities of the Twin Cities Gateway, you will find many options to choose from.
Where to Sleep When Visiting the Twin Cities Gateway
Stay at a comfortable, convenient, and affordable Twin Cities Gateway hotel or a quaint Bed & Breakfast. All 25 quality lodging properties in Anoka, Arden Hills, Blaine, Coon Rapids, Fridley, Ham Lake, Mounds View, New Brighton, and Shoreview are easily accessible and offer free parking. Each is located within minutes of many Minneapolis and St. Paul attractions.
Click here for a complete list of lodging properties for your next Twin Cities Gateway adventure.
Things to do
Anoka
1551 7th Ave, Anoka, MN 55303
2371 7th Ave, Anoka, MN 55303
1423 5th Ave, Anoka, MN 55303
420 E Main St Anoka, MN 55303
HaveFunBiking’s Area Map
Twin Cities Gateway’s Map of Anoka’s Bike Trails
Anoka is easily accessible with a North Star Commuter Rail Station to get you to and from Minneapolis so you can visit the “Halloween Capital of the World.” Anoka is filled with many fun attractions, events, and activities. The historic Downtown boasts an array of unique shops, restaurants, and services, all surrounded by beautiful city parks, trails, and neighborhoods. Events such as Anoka Riverfest & Craft Fair and the Anoka Classic Car Show draw visitors from all over the summer. As the “Halloween Capital of the World,” Anoka’s Octobers are filled with fun activities, including three parades and a 5K Grey Ghost Run.
Here’s a list of just a few of the many things Anoka has to offer:
Lyric Arts Main Street Stage – this theatre has a full season of musicals, plays, and music events | 420 E. Main Street, Anoka, MN 55303 | 763-422-1838
Anoka Aquatic Center – featuring a climbing wall, diving board, water slide, sand volleyball court, and many other attractions | 1551 Seventh Avenue, Anoka, MN 55303 | 763-576-2980
Historic Downtown – the heart of Anoka is perfect for every shopper, whether you’re looking for clothes, décor, gifts, or antiques
Hans Bakery – known for their tasty treats such as the BeeHive and Texas doughnut | 1423 5th Avenue, Anoka, MN 55303 | 763-421-4200
Broncos of Anoka – one of Anoka’s unique restaurants specializing in slow-roasted sandwiches | Menu | 2371 7th Ave. Anoka, MN 55303 | 763-421-0602
Click here for Information about Anoka.
Blaine
1250 126th Ave NE #100, Blaine, MN 55434
1700 105th Ave NE, Blaine, MN 55449
9250 Lincoln St. NE Blaine, MN 55434
11888 Aberdeen Street Northeast Blaine, MN 55449
(763) 757-9700
Have Fun Biking’s Area Map
Twin Cities Gateway Map for Blaine’s Bike Trails
Located just 12 miles north of downtown Minneapolis along Interstate 35W and Highways 10 and 65, Blaine is home to the National Sports Center. The National Sports Center is an Olympic-class training facility and international hub for youth sports, as well as the TPC – Twin Cities golf course, which annually hosts the 3M Championship of the PGA Champions Tour. Don’t miss the Blaine Festival in late June, fun for the whole family. With more than 60 parks, you will find 140 miles of trails within Blaine’s boundaries.
Here’s a list of just a few of the many things Blaine has to offer:
Carol’s – great for delicious home-style American food| Menu | 11888 Aberdeen St. N.E., Minneapolis, MN 55449 | 763-757-9700
Big Dipper Creamery – family-owned ice cream shop with 52 flavors of tasty homemade ice cream | Menu | 1250 126th Ave. N.E., Blaine, MN 55434 | 763-276-9972
Fogerty Arena – known as the “Ice House,” this is a great place to watch a game of hockey, have fun during free skate, or learn how to curl at the home of Four Seasons Curling Club | 9250 Lincoln St. N.E., Blaine, MN 55434 | 763-780-3328
National Sports Center – the world’s largest amateur sports facility with 50 soccer fields and eight hockey sheets; this center is also home to Minnesota’s professional soccer team Minnesota United F.C. | 1700 105th Ave. N. E., Blaine, MN 55449 | 763-785-5600
Click here for more information about Blaine.
Coon Rapids
2500 Coon Rapids Blvd NW, Coon Rapids, MN 55433
12800 Bunker Prairie Rd NW, Coon Rapids, MN 55448
12761 Riverdale Blvd, Coon Rapids, MN 55448
HaveFunBiking’s Area Map
Twin Cities Gateway’s Map for Coon Rapids’ Bike Trails
Traveling to Coon Rapids is made easy with the North Star Commuter Rail Station. This makes going back and forth to Minneapolis or a multi-modal bike ride using the Mississippi River Trail a breeze. The community offers a unique combination of urban excitement and small-town friendliness for residents and visitors alike. There are many recreational activities in Coon Rapids within Bunker Hills Regional Park. Visitors can also enjoy Coon Rapids’ softball and baseball fields, tennis and basketball courts, hiking and biking trails, skateboard parks, fishing, boating docks, and more! Be sure to check out Coon Rapids’ 4th of July festivities too!
Here’s a list of just a few of the many things Coon Rapids’ has to offer:
Riverdale Village – a one-stop shop for all your shopping needs, this shopping center has a variety of stores from clothing to groceries and everything between | 12921 Riverdale Blvd. N.W., Coon Rapids, MN, 55448
Mississippi National River and Recreation Area – this National Park Service natural wonder runs through Fridley, Coon Rapids, and Anoka, offering 72 miles of wilderness in an urban setting. | 111 E. Kellogg Blvd., Suite 105, Saint Paul, MN 55101 | 651-293-0200
Kendall’s Tavern & Chophouse – conveniently located next to Bunker Hills Golf Course and event center, this excellent restaurant offers customers a variety of options | Menu | 12800 Bunker Prairie Road N.W., Coon Rapids, MN 55448 | 763-755-1234
Rose Garden – a family-owned restaurant for over a decade that provides you with delicious Chinese cuisine | Menu | 2500 Coon Rapids Blvd., Coon Rapids, MN 55433 | 763-323-2080
Click here for more information about Coon Rapids.
Fridley
1298 E Moore Lake Dr, Fridley, MN 55432
611 Mississippi St NE, Fridley, MN 55432
255 57th Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55432
1258 E Moore Lake Dr, Fridley, MN 55432
HaveFunBiking’s Area Map
Twin Cities Gateway’s Map for Fridley’s Bike Trails
There are various ways to get from the Twin Cities to Fridley. One of which is the North Star Commuter Rail. Fridley is home to the first station on the North Star Commuter rail, and this rail can bring you down to Target Field. Here you can enjoy the many outdoor activities and recreational facilities just a short drive away from the bustling downtown Minneapolis. Find many attractive recreational park facilities on the Mississippi River, like Manomin Park, the Reidel Estate and Farm, and Riverfront Park. The City’s northwest corner is nestled within Springbrook Nature Center, a 127-acre nature preserve and interpretive learning center. On the City’s east side, Moore Lake features a beach, sandy dunes, park shelters, and a fishing pier.
Here are just a few of the many things Fridley has to offer:
Grandpa’s Ice Cream – a family-owned shop that has “Premium Homemade Ice Cream” in 32 flavors and sorbets lets you mix and match tastes to make shakes and malts | 1258 East Moore Lake Drive, Fridley, MN 55432 | 763-572-2078
Zantigo – a restaurant exclusive to Minnesota, Zantigo provides delectable Mexican flavor to their food | Menu | 255 57th Avenue N.E., Fridley, MN 55432 | 763-586-1044
Shortstop – a local bar and grill that gives a good hometown feel with favorites such as wings, burgers, pasta, and wraps | Menu | 1298 Moore Lake Drive, Fridley, MN 55432 | 763-571-3417
Fridley Historical Center – take a walk around the local museum to learn more about the history of the area | 611 Mississippi St. N.E., Fridley, MN 55432 | 763-571-0120
Click here for more information about Fridley.
Ham Lake
14200 Lincoln St NE, Ham Lake, MN 55304
701 Bunker Lake Boulevard Ham Lake, MN 55304
Bar & Grill
(763) 755-2140
16220 Aberdeen St. NE Ham Lake, MN 55304
(763) 434-1515
1431 147th Ave. NE Ham Lake, MN 55304
Fine dinning
(763) 413-9950
Twin Cities Gateway’s Map for Ham Lake’s Bike Trails
Travel to Ham Lake – home of Majestic Oaks Golf Club – one of the metropolitan area’s largest and most highly regarded championship courses. Summertime is when a boom of travelers visit the area to camp on the rustic shores of Ham Lake. Some of these summer visitors are hosted by the Ham Lake Campground, one of a handful of campgrounds in the metropolitan area. This facility stands out with its assortment of recreational activities, boat rentals, and themed weekends throughout the seasons.
Here are just a few of the many things Ham Lake has to offer:
T-Box Bar & Grill – a cozy place to grab a bite to eat while also featuring an array of drinks | Lunch Menu | Dinner Menu | 1431 147th Ave. N.E., Ham Lake, MN 55304 | 763-413-9950
Brown Family Adventures – a large indoor playground unlike any other complete with a large tree house, suspension bridges, and slides | 14200 Lincoln Street NE, Suite 500, Ham Lake, MN 55304 | 763-331-0265
Mansetti’s Pizza & Pasta – a great place to swing in and grab a bite of your favorite foods | Menu | 16220 Aberdeen St. N.E., Ham Lake, MN 55304 | 763-434-1515
Majestic Oaks – a gorgeous golf club that includes the 46th Hole Bar and Grill and a dinner theatre which is great after a round or two of golf |701 Bunker Lake Blvd Ham Lake, MN 55304 | 763-755-2140
Click here for more information about Ham Lake.
Lino Lakes
700 Aqua Ln, Lino Lakes, MN 55014
8001 Lake Dr, Lino Lakes, MN 55014
6505 Ware Rd, Lino Lakes, MN 55014
426 Pine St, Lino Lakes, MN 55014
HaveFunBiking’s Area Map
Twin Cities Gateway’s Map for Lino Lake’s Bike Trails
Lino Lakes is a city with a chain of 13 lakes and easy access to both Interstates 35W and 35E. Lino Lakes is a great location to tap into the Twin Cities’ excitement and then retreat to the tranquility of the City’s natural surroundings. Biking, hiking, canoeing, and camping are at your doorstep in Lino Lakes. Families will enjoy canoeing and kayaking on the Rice Creek Water Trail. Visitors can bring their canoes and kayaks or rent them at Wargo Nature Center in the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park. Campers will find that the Regional Park campgrounds are a little bit of heaven right in the metro area!
Here are just a few of the many things Lino Lakes have to offer:
Rehbein’s Indoor BMX Park – known as “The Barn,” it is Minnesota’s only indoor BMX Park | 426 Pine Street, Lino Lakes, MN 55014 | 651-784-5824
Kingdom Baking – exclusive to Lino Lakes, Kingdom Baking serves tasty baked goods and coffee with some gluten-free and vegan options | 6505 Ware Road, Lino Lakes, MN 55014 | 651-484-0240
The Tavern on Main – a great sports bar conveniently located close to 35W, making it easy to enjoy their delicious menu | Menu | 8001 Lake Drive, Lino Lakes, MN 55014 | 651-783-7106
Chomonix Golf Course – bring your clubs for a round of golf at this beautiful golf course | 700 Aqua Lane, Lino Lakes, MN 55014 | 651-482-8484
Click here to learn more about Lino Lakes.
Mounds View
2400 County Hwy 10, Mounds View, MN 55112
2292 Woodale Dr, Mounds View, MN 55112
HaveFunBiking’s Area Map
Twin Cities Gateway Map for Mounds View’s Bike Trails
Check out the Festival in the Park or just plan a great leisurely getaway in Mounds View. A charming city located at the juncture of Interstate 35W and State Highway 10, it is just a short ten miles from both downtown Minneapolis and Saint Paul. When not biking, check out the many attractions such as the Mounds View Community Center/Event Center/YMCA, their ten city parks, or the hiking and biking trail system. Don’t forget Mounds View’s Festival in the Park (link provided above) held each August. The parade and the Car & Tractor Show are the Festival’s main attractions.
Here are just a few of the many things Mounds View has to offer:
Zero Gravity Trampoline Park – more than just trampolines, Zero Gravity also has laser tag, a foam pit, and an arcade to keep the kids entertained all day | 2292 Woodale Drive, Mounds View, MN 55112 | 763-231-3033
Mounds View Community Theater – catch a show put on by the members of Mounds View | 651-638-2139
Moe’s of Mounds View – a fun place to go for a distinctive menu and fun events such as trivia nights and Bingo | Menu | 2400 Highway 10, Mounds View, MN, 55112 | 763-786-1800
Click here for more information about Mounds View.
New Brighton
400 10th St NW, New Brighton, MN 55112
1435 Silver Lake Rd NW, New Brighton, MN 55112
1431 Silver Lake Rd NW, New Brighton, MN 55112
500 5th Ave NW # 109, New Brighton, MN 55112
HaveFunBiking’s Area Map
Twin Cities Gateway’s Map for New Brighton’s Bike Trails
A century-old city that is truly young at heart, New Brighton is conveniently located at the intersection of I-694 and I-35W, a 15-minute ride to downtown Minneapolis or Saint Paul. New Brighton offers 13 neighborhood parks, an exceptional community center, and a beautiful executive golf course, Brightwood Hills. New Brighton’s Community Center offers a versatile location for meetings and events. In August, don’t miss Stockyard Days, New Brighton’s week-long celebration with a parade, fireworks, street dances, and more!
Here are just a few of the many things New Brighton has to offer:
New Brighton Community Center – home to Eagle’s Nest, one of the Twin Cities’ largest indoor playgrounds, a full-size gym, and an indoor track with something for everyone | 400 10th Street, New Brighton, MN 55112 |651-638-2130
Bru House – more than your typical coffee house, the Bru House also has a breakfast, and lunch menu that is open at 6 a.m. every weekday and even has a drive-thru for those times when you are in a rush | Menu | 1431-A Silver Lake Road, New Brighton, MN 55112 | 651-631-1112
Limu Coffee – for a non-traditional coffee fix, Limu offers “true Ethiopian flavor” in all of their coffee drinks but also has some non-coffee beverages for everyone to enjoy | Menu | 500 5th Ave., New Brighton, MN 55112 | 651-633-3454
Giuseppe’s Italian Ristorante – a homey cafe with traditional Italian cooking | Menu| 1435 Silver Lake Road, New Brighton, MN 55112 | 651-631-2774
Click here for more information about New Brighton.
Shoreview
1056 Hwy 96 W, Shoreview, MN 55126
3600 Lexington Ave N #106, Shoreview, MN 55126
1049 Hwy 96 W, Shoreview, MN 55126
4580 Victoria St N, Shoreview, MN 55126
HaveFunBiking’s Area Map Our Map
Twin Cities Gateway’s Map here for Shoreview’s Bike Trails
Experience the numerous attractions the picturesque community of Shoreview has to offer. Just ten miles north of Saint Paul and Minneapolis, Shoreview is amidst a beautiful natural landscape for riding your bike. Shoreview’s beautiful environment includes lakes, parks, wetlands, and open spaces. There are eleven lakes in the community, including three with public beaches. Visitors enjoy outdoor recreation in 14 parks, and the City has more than 50 miles of trails and sidewalks. During late July, don’t miss the Slice of Shoreview Days, featuring an art fair, parade, and fun for the whole family.
Here are just a few of the many things Shoreview has to offer:
Shoreview Community Center – complete with a large indoor playground and water park, Shoreview Community Center is a great place to have fun with the whole family | 4580 Victoria St. N., Shoreview, MN 55126 | 651-490-4700
Razs Coffee & Ice Cream – a great place to grab some coffee and ice cream along with some soup and salads | 1049 Highway 96 W., Shoreview, MN 55126 | 651-766-6965
Marianne’s Kitchen – specializing in sandwiches, this shop has a good homey feel and offers gluten-free options | Menu | 3600 Lexington Ave. N., Shoreview, MN 55126 | 651-484-2585
Meister’s Bar & Grill – has great American and German food with fun events such as a trivia night, karaoke night, and live music to keep you entertained as you eat | Menu | 1056 Highway 96 West, Shoreview, MN 55126 | 651-482-8829
Click here for more information about Shoreview.