On my cycle ride through the Minneapolis North Loop, took in new construction that integrates with two historic structures, thus retaining some sense of place. I’ve always liked the 1884 Commutator building on the corner, but it was falling into disrepair. The white structure (propped up) was wheeled round the corner while a huge hole…… Continue reading Old Meets New
Category: Minnesota
The Journey Home
Climbed up from Stillwater this morning on the Brown’s Creek Trail to join the Gateway Trail towards St. Paul. Both these leafy trails, repurposed from former railroads, offered a smooth ride with plenty of shade.
Pedal and Stay
Cycled excellent trails from home to the St. Croix River (28 miles), where we checked into our new favorite Stillwater hotel, Lora. This 1886 brewery-turned-boutique hotel features stone walls, caves, and contemporary style. We dined at Dock Cafe, a nostalgic spot filled with decades of memories, before enjoying a stroll across the now-pedestrianized lift bridge.
How Not to Pump Up a Tire
Our building’s fancy new bike repair station got a workout from me today. I tried to pump up my tires, but managed to bend the delicate screw in a Presta valve. When I tried to straighten it, it broke. Across the river at Erik’s in Dinkytown, a technician swiftly replaced the valve without needing to…… Continue reading How Not to Pump Up a Tire
In This Together
As I cycled through the Seward neighborhood of Minneapolis, I couldn’t help noticing the lawn signs. In two cases, I ended up chatting with the homeowners. Near the neighborhood’s edge, in an industrial building, I found Twin City Maker, a 24/7 non-profit offering wood and metal shops, a laser cutter, 3D printers, an electronics workshop,…… Continue reading In This Together
Minnesota’s Get-Together
Today was the day for my annual bike ride to the State Fair. Walked around, visited the poultry barn, and climbed above the crowds to the top of a forest fire watch tower where it was relatively quiet. As usual, after an hour, I was ready to get back on my bike.
Forgotten Bridal Veil Falls
It was raining, so I decided to walk. From East River Road, near the Franklin Avenue Bridge, I heard the sound of rushing water. Peering over a wall, I stumbled upon a hidden gem: Bridal Veil Falls. The stream has been tamed by a culvert, and the Falls diminished by development, and it lacks even a name sign. I later found photos of its untamed beauty. Click through for a glimpse of its past.
A Fleeting Display
Last weekend there was a street art festival on Nicollet Mall in Downtown. The sidewalk chalk art had survived quite well when I reviewed it today, minus crowds.
Concrete Calm
Cycled through this calm place on my random steamy ride. Industrial areas like this one in St. Paul are best explored on weekends, away from the hustle of weekday truck traffic.
Train and Smoke
While cycling past the BNSF Northtown Yard today, watched a freight train roll by. The air quality is noticeably poor due to wildfires in the West and Canada.