Most people in the Twin Cities — and in Minnesota in general — have been to Valley Fair. Many of us have also been to Minnesota's other famous amusement park, Paul Bunyan Land. But did you know there was once a park right outside of Minneapolis? This amusement park entertained locals for nearly 50 years. Today, it is long gone. But its memory lives on in the minds of many Minnesotans who were around back then. Check it out:
The park was owned by a man named Fred Pearce, and it was a popular spot in the Twin Cities for many years. Modeled after Coney Island, it featured exactly the kinds of attractions you'd expect from an early 20th century amusement park. A Ferris wheel offered views from high above the ground, and attractions like boats, a fun house, and and a carousel offered lower altitude fun. The carousel is still in operation at ValleyFair.
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The park's biggest ride was a wooden roller coaster called the Cyclone.
The Cyclone offered thrills to Minnesotans — and out-of-towners — for many years. Other than its rides, the amusement park also hosted musical guests, from the Beach Boys to the Rolling Stones. Inevitably, the park's popularity surged.
But all good things must end. After 48 years, Excelsior amusement park finally closed in 1973. While it may be long gone, this once-popular amusement park lives on in the memories of many Minnesotans. If you were around back then, this nostalgic footage may jog your memory:
Did you ever visit Excelsior Amusement Park? What are your fondest memories there? We'd love to read your memories in the comments below.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Winter in South Dakota means long, leisurely days curled up by a roaring fire and getting outdoors for epic adrenaline rushes as we zip down hills on sleds, snow tubes, and skis, depending on our mood that day. Part of the magic of the season, the holidays add almost non-stop magic with so many ways to celebrate the season, from marveling at the Christmas light displays in South Dakota to attending some of the season's best activities and events. Pack your schedule with some of the best things to do in the winter in South Dakota. Here's some inspiration to get you started.
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Holiday Events In South Dakota
Christmastime in South Dakota allows us to relive some of that childhood magic as we look forward to the merriest day of the year. A drive through the neighborhood to see all of the Christmas lights - and decide which house has the best - allows us to harken back to a simpler time. But that's just the beginning of the seasonal fun. From Christmas light displays to Christmas festivals, South Dakota transforms into a wonderland during the holiday season.
1. Watertown Winter Wonderland
Location: Watertown
Popularity: Can get busy
Price: Free but donations are welcome
Embrace the Christmas spirit by piling the whole family into the car for a drive through the Watertown Winter Wonderland, a magical drive-thru Christmas lights display in South Dakota. Hosted by the Watertown Optimist Club, the beloved annual event generally runs on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from Thanksgiving to Christmas. Turn on the Christmas carols, sing along, and slowly meander through this holiday lights display, one of the best free things to do in South Dakota in winter.
2. McCrory Gardens
Illuminated sleigh in a winter snowy park with lights. Christmas outdoors decoration. Christmas wallpaper.
Location: Brookings
Popularity: Popular, so tickets must be purchased in advance
Price: General admission: $9
Bundle up for a wintertime stroll through McCrory Gardens' annual Garden Glow. One of the best family things to do in South Dakota in winter, Garden Glow boasts thousands of twinkling lights. Meander past shimmering Christmas trees and through a light tunnel on your adventure. Garden Glow runs from early December to the beginning of January. Stop by between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. nightly. The Christmas event in South Dakota is closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Eve. Tickets go on sale in late November and must be purchased in advance.
3. Winter Wonderland
Sioux Falls Park trailhead light with Christmas lights in the winter. High quality photo
Location: Sioux Falls
Popularity: Extremely popular
Price: Free
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Embark on one of the most enchanting Christmastime experiences with a visit to Winter Wonderland at Falls Park. One of the best family things to do in South Dakota in winter, Winter Wonderland promises countless magical moments. The awe-inspiring light display boasts more than 355,000 LED lights, 270 decorated trees, and more than 25 miles of light strings. Don't forget your camera for your visit to this magnificent light display in South Dakota, which runs from mid-November through early January.
4. Holiday Celebration and Winter Market
Location: Rapid City
Popularity: Busy
Price: Free
Kickstart the Christmas season with a visit to the Holiday Celebration & Winter Market at Main Street Square in Rapid City. Set for Nov. 25, 2023, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., the celebration's main event is the lighting of the Christmas tree. While you're there, get a bit of Christmas shopping done at the winter market.
5. Frontier Christmas
Location: Lake City
Popularity: Can get busy
Price: $5 per person for lunch; a park license is required
Travel back through the pages of time and celebrate a Frontier Christmas at Fort Sisseton Historic State Park. Slated for Dec. 9, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., this family-friendly Christmas event in South Dakota will feature a full menu of activities, including crafts, candle lighting, and caroling. Climb aboard a sleigh ride, and indulge in such scrumptious treats as homemade bread and roasted chestnuts.
6. Holidazzle Light Parade
Location: Spearfish
Popularity: Extremely popular
Price: Free
Make your way to Main Street in Spearfish for the beloved annual Holidazzle Light Parade, set for Dec. 2, 2023, at 6 p.m. Find a spot along the parade route that runs from the parking lot at Spearfish High School to Main Street and Grant Street. Don't forget your camera. The Christmas parade, after all, is one of the best free things to do in South Dakota in winter.
Christmas Towns In South Dakota
With all there is to do during the Christmas season, we can sometimes forget to slow down and really enjoy the magic of the season. See if you can carve out some time in your holiday schedule for a day trip, or even a weekend getaway, to one of these delightful Christmas towns in South Dakota.
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7. Pierre
Location: Pierre
Popularity: Can get busy
Price: Free
Embrace the magic of the season with a visit to the enchanting town of Pierre for the beloved Christmas at the Capitol, which runs from late November through Dec. 23, 2023. The celebration, which features a full menu of live entertainment, kicks off with the lighting of the Christmas tree in late November.
8. Mitchell
Location: Mitchell
Popularity: Very popular
Price: Parade of Lights is free
Bring the whole family to the darling town of Mitchell, an idyllic way to get into the Christmas spirit. The small South Dakota town hosts the Parade of Lights at the end of November, and town shops and restaurants compete in a window-decorating contest. Even if you can't make it to the parade, spend a day in this quaint small town, where you can go Christmas shopping and dig into a delicious meal.
9. Deadwood
Aerial View of Deadwood, South Dakota at Dusk with Christmas Lights
Location: Deadwood
Popularity: Can get busy
Price: Free
Feel as though you've stepped into a winter wonderland when you visit the adorable South Dakota town of Deadwood. Join the town in a holiday celebration at Community Christmas, set for Dec. 8, 2023, from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. Spend some time Christmas shopping and indulging in a delicious meal or two, too.
Outdoor Activities
South Dakota is an outdoor lover's paradise all year round, but it's something magical during the winter. Whether you prefer a laidback adventure as you glide around an ice skating rink or you prefer an adrenaline rush by zipping down a hill on a snow tube. Not sure what to do next this winter? Check out these South Dakota winter activities.
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10. Main Street Square Ice Rink
Aerial View of Christmas Lights in Rapid City, South Dakota at Dusk
Location: Rapid City
Popularity: Very popular
Price: $9 day pass; $5 skate rental
Spend a winter day gliding around the ice at the Main Street Square ice rink in Rapid City. One price gives you access to the rink all day, where you can hone your skating skills and enjoy the fresh winter air. The ice skating rink is open seasonally from the end of November to late February.
11. Great Bear Ski Valley
Location: Sioux Falls
Popularity: Gets busy
Price: $8-$24 depending on day and time
Spend the day zipping down the hill on a snow tube at Great Bear Ski Valley. Billed as the largest snow tubing park in South Dakota, Great Bear Ski Valley's Kirby Family Tubing Park boasts 12 lanes and a conveyor belt to take you back to the top. Try to visit for nighttime tubing at least once, too. The resort, which also offers skiing and snowboarding, generally opens in mid to late December.
12. Mitchell Activity Center
Location: Mitchell
Popularity: Very popular; reservations suggested
Price: $4-$6
For one of the best cheap things to do in South Dakota in winter, look no further than Mitchell Ice Arena for a round of bumper cars on ice. If you thought traditional bumper cars were fun, wait until you try 'em on ice. Waivers are required for all participants. If you prefer ice skating to bumper cars on ice, lace up your skates for an ice skating session. Season passes are available for ice skating.
Winter Getaways
Most people naturally think of summer when it comes to planning a getaway. However, there's something oh-so-magical about a winter getaway, especially after it's snowed. The world is a little bit quieter; the landscape transforms into a wonderland, and we have the chance to appreciate nature in a whole new way. Before the doldrums set in, plan a winter getaway in South Dakota.
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13. Custer State Park Resort
Custer State Park is a South Dakota State Park and wildlife reserve in the Black Hills, United States. The park is home to a famous herd of 1500 free roaming bison.[3] Elk, coyotes, mule deer, white tailed deer, mountain goats, prairie dogs, bighorn sheep, river otters, pronghorn, cougars, and feral burros also inhabit the park. The park is famous for its scenery, its scenic drives (Needles Highway and the wildlife loop), with views of the bison herd and prairie dog towns. This park is easily accessible by road from Rapid City
Location: Custer
Popularity: Reservations necessary
Price: Starting at $55
Escape for a winter getaway to Custer State Park Resort, where you'll find a variety of accommodations, including rustic cabins. The resort boasts a full menu of amenities, including some of the best food in South Dakota. If you're looking for one of the best romantic things to do in South Dakota in winter, you've just found it.
14. Hisega Lodge
Location: Rapid City
Popularity: Can get busy
Price: Starts around $155 a night
Both a bed and breakfast and a self-described "adventure lodge," Hisega Lodge Bed and Breakfast provides an idyllic backdrop for a winter getaway in South Dakota. Snuggled in the Black Hills, this quaint B&B makes it easy to relax. Spend the day snowshoeing or exploring the snow-capped landscape before taking it easy in front of a roaring fireplace after a day of fun.
Get away from it all when you check into this secluded cabin at Coyote Ridge Lodge in Spearfish. Tucked on 10 acres, the cozy cabin comfortably sleeps up to six guests in its two bedrooms. Curl up by the wood-burning fireplace or wrap yourself in a blanket to watch the snow fall outside of the picture window. The quaint South Dakota cabin is perfect for a romantic getaway for two or a family vacation.
What are your favorite things to do in South Dakota in winter? Let us know in the comments! On the hunt for more free things to do in South Dakota in winter? How about going on a refreshing winter hike in South Dakota? For even more of the best hikes in South Dakota, head over to AllTrails.
