5 Historic Places to Visit Around the Twin Cities

Learning about the history of our area is a great way to strengthen your roots and sense of belonging. Here are five fascinating historic places to visit near our Springs at Apple Valley and Springs at Egan Drive communities.

Experience rural Minnesota life during the 19th century at The Landing, an 88-acre living history museum. Historical buildings such as Major Murphy's Inn and the Pond Grist Mill are laid out to follow a timeline from pre-territorial days up to the late 1800s. Stroll the scenic trail alongside the Minnesota River or participate in hands-on demonstrations led by authentically costumed interpreters. Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for kids 17 and under. Hours change seasonally.

This museum is dedicated to preserving Scott County's rich history for current and future generations. Current exhibits include "Wish You Were Here: Tourism in Scott County" and "The Minnesota River." Visitors can also tour the neighboring Stans House, a Dutch Colonial Revival home that belonged to the family of noted political figure and philanthropist Maurice Stans. Admission is $4 for adults and $2 for students. Visit the website for hours.

The centerpiece of this historic site in Mendota, one-time center of the region's fur trade, is the oldest private home in the state. It originated as the headquarters for the building's namesake, Henry Sibley, who became the first elected governor of Minnesota. In the 1840s Sibley converted the building to a family home for himself, his wife and their nine children. One-hour guided tours are given between 1  and 4 p.m. on weekends between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Admission is $7 for adults and $5 for kids between the ages of 5 and 17.

Fort Snelling is a piece of frontier history standing in the modern metropolis of St. Paul. Built at the intersection of the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers, Fort Snelling was an important military outpost during the Civil War and World War II. Visitors today can view artifacts, documents and photographs from the fort's history as well as special programs and exhibits. Fort Snelling is open to the public from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Admission is $12 for adults and $6 for kids between the ages of 5 and 17.

Minneapolis was once the leading international producer of flour, and as the name indicates, the park is literally built on the ruins of the old mills. The grounds are open for walking and biking, and visitors can tour Mill City Museum, which is located only a block east. The adjacent St. Anthony Falls and Stone Arch Bridge are also popular attractions. Mill Ruins Park is open 6 a.m. to midnight seven days a week.

Have you discovered a favorite spot we missed? Share it in the comments!