Anoka Travel Guide

A comprehensive tour guide for Anoka, Minnesota including places to visit, hiking/biking routes, must-try dishes, where to stay, and local culture and customs.


Introduction to Anoka

Anoka is a historic city located in the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area of Minnesota, USA. Known as the “Halloween Capital of the World,” Anoka is famous for its spooky Halloween festivities, including parades and events. However, Anoka has much more to offer than Halloween celebrations. The city is full of history, stunning natural attractions, and outdoor adventures. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your visit to Anoka, from places to visit to where to stay, and what to do.

List of Places to Visit in Anoka

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Anoka County Historical Society and Museum

Located in the heart of downtown Anoka, the Anoka County Historical Society and Museum showcases the city’s rich history. The museum’s exhibits feature the city’s founding, its early years, and its development into a thriving community. Visitors can enjoy the exhibits of the museum and learn about the Anoka County’s natural history, archaeology, and art.

The Charles “Uncle Charlie” Brown Museum

Dedicated to the creator of Peanuts, Charles Schulz, The Charles “Uncle Charlie” Brown Museum celebrates the life and career of the famous cartoonist. The museum is a must-visit for Peanuts fans, with displays of original artwork, a replica of Schulz’s studio, and interactive exhibits.

Natural Attractions of Anoka: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Rum River

The Rum River is a natural gem of Anoka, providing a serene and peaceful environment for outdoor enthusiasts. The river features stunning scenery, and visitors can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. The river also has several parks for hiking and picnicking, including Mississippi River Regional Trail, Sand Dunes State Forest, and Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park.

Bunker Hills Regional Park

Located in the city of Coon Rapids, Bunker Hills Regional Park is one of the largest parks in the surrounding area. The park features hiking and biking trails, a swimming beach, camping grounds, and a variety of sports facilities, including golf, archery, and horseback riding.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Anoka

The Mississippi River Trail

The Mississippi River Trail is a 3,000-mile trail that spans ten states along the Mississippi River. The trail is a perfect route for hikers and bikers who want to enjoy the beauty of the river. The trail in Anoka is a scenic route that provides a panoramic view of the Mississippi River.

The Rum River Trail

The Rum River Trail is a popular trail in Anoka that runs along the Rum River. The trail is a perfect route for hiking and biking, with stunning views of the river and surrounding nature.

Best Things to Do in Anoka: Activities and Tours

Anoka County Historical Society Trolley Tours

The Anoka County Historical Society offers trolley tours of the city’s historical neighborhoods from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The tours allow visitors to learn about the city’s history and architecture while enjoying a leisurely ride in a vintage trolley.

Anoka Halloween Ghost Tours

Anoka is famous for its Halloween festivities and its spooky ghost tours. The tours are available throughout the year and allow visitors to explore the city’s haunted history with the help of an experienced guide.

Week-Long Itinerary for Anoka

Day Activities
1 Visit the Anoka County Historical Society and Museum
2 Enjoy a scenic hike along the Mississippi River Trail
3 Take a trolley tour of Anoka’s historic neighborhoods
4 Visit Bunker Hills Regional Park and enjoy nature trails and sports facilities
5 Explore the Charles “Uncle Charlie” Brown Museum
6 Go on a Rum River Trail hike and enjoy outdoor activities
7 Take an Anoka Halloween Ghost Tour and explore the spooky history of Anoka

Food and Drink Scene of Anoka

Must-Try Dishes

Meat Raffles

Meat raffles are a must-try dish in Anoka. It is a fundraiser event that serves meat and other delicacies as raffle prizes. The dish is a local tradition and a fun way to experience the culture of Anoka.

Juicy Lucy

The Juicy Lucy is a famous cheeseburger found on many menus at Anoka. It is a cheese-stuffed burger that is sure to satisfy your hunger.

Local Beverages

Local Craft Beers

Anoka has a thriving craft beer scene, with local breweries offering a wide range of beer styles, from IPAs to stouts.

Milkshakes

Anoka has several local diners that offer delicious milkshakes, a perfect beverage to cool down on a hot summer day.

Where to Stay in Anoka: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Green Haven Resort

Green Haven Resort is a family-owned guesthouse located near the Rum River. The resort offers spacious rooms and amenities, including a pool, playground, and a barbeque area.

Anoka’s Gingerbread House

Anoka’s Gingerbread House is a quaint bed and breakfast located in the heart of Anoka. The B&B features Victorian-style rooms that are perfect for a romantic getaway or a family vacation.

What to Buy in Anoka: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Anoka offers a variety of local products and souvenirs that make for perfect gifts and keepsakes. Some of the most popular items include:

  • Halloween-themed apparel and accessories
  • Local artisan crafts and jewelry
  • Anoka-themed t-shirts, hats, and mugs

Local Culture and Customs of Anoka

Anoka is a friendly community known for its small-town charm and welcoming residents. The city celebrates cultural diversity, and several events throughout the year reflect this. Visitors are advised to respect the local customs and traditions and show kindness and respect to the residents.

Best Time to Visit Anoka

The best time to visit Anoka is during the fall season, especially around Halloween. The city comes alive during Halloween with several events and celebrations, including parades and costume contests. The weather is mild during the fall, making it perfect for outdoor activities. However, Anoka’s natural attractions and cultural events make it an excellent destination at any time of the year.

Do’s and Don’ts of Anoka

Do:

  • Participate in the Halloween festivities
  • Take a trolley tour of Anoka’s historic neighborhoods
  • Try the local food and beverages
  • Respect the local customs and traditions

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural attractions
  • Disrespect the local culture or customs

Safety and Health

Safety in Anoka

Anoka is a safe city with a low crime rate. Visitors are advised to take the usual precautions and avoid walking alone in unlit areas at night.

Health in Anoka

Anoka has several healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance, carry a first-aid kit, and take necessary precautions if they have any health conditions before their visit.

Getting to Anoka: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Anoka

  • Minneapolis−Saint Paul International Airport is the closest airport to Anoka, located approximately 30 minutes away.

Bus Stations Near Anoka

  • Anoka has several bus stations, including the Metro Transit bus service that connects the city to other parts of the Twin Cities.

Other Options

  • Anoka is easily accessible by car, and visitors can also use rideshare services, like Uber and Lyft, to get around the city.

How to Get Around in Anoka

Anoka is a walkable and bike-friendly city, and visitors can easily explore the city on foot or bike. The city also has a local bus service that connects various parts of the city. Visitors can also use rideshare services to get around the city comfortably.

Where to Go Next from Anoka: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Minneapolis

The largest city in the state, Minneapolis has several cultural attractions and natural wonders. Visitors can explore the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, the Mall of America, and the Chain of Lakes.

St. Paul

The capital of Minnesota, St. Paul has several cultural attractions, including the Minnesota State Capitol and the Science Museum of Minnesota. It is also home to several parks and natural attractions, including the Crosby Regional Park and the Indian Mounds Regional Park.

Conclusion

Anoka is a charming city with a rich history, stunning natural attractions, and cultural festivities. This comprehensive travel guide will help visitors plan their visit to Anoka, from places to visit to where to stay and what to do. Visitors can enjoy the small-town charm and natural beauty of Anoka while experiencing the city’s unique traditions and customs.