by Jess Leong, HaveFunBiking.com

With nine communities and the National Sports Center to explore in the Twin Cities Gateway Area, you will find many fun events and family activities here while visiting. From the Gateway’s southwest border where the Mississippi River flows by, the communities offer many connecting trails to spacious parks. Many along picturesque streams with lakeside outdoor fun, you will find many options for fond memories to cherish. Here are six fun experiences – ones you never want to forget.

1: Spotting Your Feathered Friends in the Twin Cities Gateway 

A birding hotspot can be found along most paved bike trails that meander through the Gateway parks.

Grab your best pair of binoculars and head out on your bike – or take your car – to see the many birds in the Twin Cities Gateway Area. While robins and finches are pretty fine, we’re talking about catching sight of Blue Herons, hawk, and eagles here. Scout the area, and maybe you’ll catch a glimpse of those great raptors and more!

 2: Throwing in a Line and Enjoying the Twin Cities Gateway 

By bike or car Twin Cities, trout Fishing at Cenaiko Lake is worth checking out.

Explore the great area lakes where you can get away from the hustle and bustle and fish in a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for the whole family. Even if fishing in the Twin Cities Gateway isn’t your thing, the beautiful landscape makes a gorgeous backdrop for picnics and outdoor events.

3: Disc Golf – Challenge Yourself and Give it Your Best Throw

Looking for disc golf fun? Here in the Twin Cities Gateway Area, find several scenic and challenging disc parks, all easy to access from the bike-friendly roads and trails here.

Get out there with your best buds or your family to try your hand at the many Twin Cities Gateway disc golf courses in the area. Some of the courses will definitely give you a challenge that even the experienced player will have a run for his money. Whether you’ve done it before or not, try it out – it’s fun no matter what age you are!

4: Bike the Mississippi River Trail then return on the train 

Riders on the Train & Trail Tour arrive in Big Lake, MN, for their journey back to the Twin City Gateway.

A Multi-Modal Adventure, a great experience that can fit your needs can be difficult. But, here with the areas Train and Trail Tour you can easily find a mix of trails and adjustable bike routes, it’s easy and just plain fun, with all the Gateways bike maps available! Plus, let’s not forget the scenic route you’ll take while on the Mississippi River Trail. A fun experience anytime, it’s especially breathtaking in the fall when the autumn colors take hold.

5: Explore the Farmer’s Market – Discover Local Produce and Goods

Have room in your bike bag to stop at one of the many farmers’ markets in the Twin Cities Gateway.

Peruse what the local farms and businesses have to offer, and you may stumble upon fun surprises and foods that you might not have known existed. You thought that yellow watermelon was photoshopped? Or root beer honey was a joke? Think again! You never know what you might find there in the Twin Cities Gateway farmers markets scheduled throughout the week.

A fairytale come true at any age, with superb entrees and desserts, in the Twin Cities Gateway. 

• Pedal/Paddle the Largest Chain of Lakes in the Twin Cities
• Bicycle Races and Events
• An Alice in Wonderland Brunch
• Old Homes and Beautiful Garden Tours
• Fun Weekend Community Events
• Exploring the Local Art and Theater Scene
• The month of Fun in the Halloween Capitol of the World
• Plus many more activities in the Twin Cities Gateway.

So pick some activities to try in the Twin Cities Gateway this year, and have some fun!

Jess Leong is a writer for HaveFunBiking.com.