Apple Valley Travel Guide
Planning a trip to Apple Valley, Minnesota? Look no further! This guide provides everything you need to know about the city, from where to stay to what to do and see.
- Introduction to Apple Valley
- List of Places to Visit in Apple Valley
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Apple Valley
- Best Things to Do in Apple Valley: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Apple Valley
- Food and Drink Scene of Apple Valley
- Where to Stay in Apple Valley: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Apple Valley: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Apple Valley
- Best Time to Visit Apple Valley
- Do’s and Don’ts of Apple Valley
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Apple Valley: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Apple Valley
- Where to Go Next from Apple Valley: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Apple Valley, located in Minnesota’s Twin Cities region, is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. With over 50 parks and more than 60 miles of biking and hiking trails, there’s plenty to explore. In addition to its natural beauty, Apple Valley houses several cultural and historical attractions, making it a fantastic destination for history buffs and art lovers alike.
Introduction to Apple Valley
Founded in the mid-19th century, Apple Valley is a suburban city that offers visitors the perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. Although it may be smaller than some of the surrounding cities, its diverse range of activities makes it a popular destination for travelers.
List of Places to Visit in Apple Valley
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- The Apple Valley Heritage Center: This museum showcases the history of the area, including the city’s founding and development.
- The Minnesota Zoo: With over 300 species of animals, this large zoo is a must-see.
- The Bell Museum of Natural History: Visitors can explore natural history exhibits and view specimens that include fossils, Minnesota wildlife, and historical exhibits.
- The Museum of Russian Art: This museum offers a view of traditional and contemporary Russian art and culture.
Natural Attractions of Apple Valley: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge: A vast expanse of natural beauty that offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing, hiking, and exploring.
- Lebanon Hills Regional Park: This park has miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and even beach volleyball courts.
- Apple Valley Golf Course: A perfect place to get outside and enjoy the scenery while playing a round of golf.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Apple Valley
- Pennock Trail: This six-mile trail is perfect for a leisurely bike ride or a jog.
- Lac Lavon Trail: Another great trail is Lac Lavon Trail, which is six miles of paved trail that runs through the heart of the city.
- Minnesota River Bottoms Trail: This 17-mile trail winds its way through wooded areas and along the river, making it a beautiful destination for both hiking and biking.
Best Things to Do in Apple Valley: Activities and Tours
- Apple Valley Family Aquatic Center: Perfect for families, this waterpark has waterslides, a lazy river, and a children’s play area.
- Apple Valley Art Center: Visitors can enjoy various art exhibitions and events at this center.
- Escape MSP: A fun and thrilling experience, players must solve a series of puzzles in a set amount of time to escape the room.
Week-Long Itinerary for Apple Valley
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Visit The Minnesota Zoo and explore the exhibits. |
| Day 2 | Spend the day at Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, hiking and wildlife viewing. |
| Day 3 | Visit Lebanon Hills Regional Park and enjoy a picnic and games. |
| Day 4 | Take an art class at the Apple Valley Art Center and explore local galleries. |
| Day 5 | Go golfing at the Apple Valley Golf Course. |
| Day 6 | Spend the day shopping at the local markets and boutiques. |
| Day 7 | Enjoy a day at the Apple Valley Family Aquatic Center and relax in the lazy river. |
Food and Drink Scene of Apple Valley
Must-Try Dishes
- Juicy Lucy: A cheese-stuffed burger that originated in Minnesota.
- Walleye: A freshwater fish that is popular in the state’s cuisine.
- Wild Rice Soup: A creamy soup made with wild rice and other ingredients.
Local Beverages
- Vikre Distillery: Located in Duluth, this distillery creates whiskey, gin, and vodka from local ingredients.
- Summit Brewing Company: With over 30 years of brewing experience, Summit beers are a must-try.
Where to Stay in Apple Valley: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- GrandStay Hotel & Conference: A family-friendly hotel that offers amenities such as an indoor pool, hot tubs, and a free breakfast buffet.
- AmericInn by Wyndham Apple Valley: This hotel is located near many popular attractions and has its pool and complimentary breakfast.
What to Buy in Apple Valley: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Minnesota Made: A store that sells gifts and souvenirs made by local artisans.
- The Dakota County Farmers’ Market: A weekly market that sells local produce, crafts, and more.
Local Culture and Customs of Apple Valley
Apple Valley prides itself on being a close-knit community. Respect for others, politeness, and a welcoming mentality are core values that are evident in the way people treat each other.
Best Time to Visit Apple Valley
The best time to visit Apple Valley is from May to October when the weather is mild and conducive to outdoor activities.
Do’s and Don’ts of Apple Valley
Do:
- Respect local customs and culture.
- Use your manners and be polite.
- Enjoy outdoor activities.
Don’t:
- Litter or damage the environment.
- Be rude to fellow visitors or locals.
- Disrespect the local culture and its customs.
Safety and Health
Safety in Apple Valley
Apple Valley is a relatively safe city, and visitors should always take precautions to stay safe, especially in densely populated areas.
Health in Apple Valley
There is no specific health threat in Apple Valley, and visitors should take precautions such as using sunscreen when outdoors and staying hydrated.
Getting to Apple Valley: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Apple Valley
- Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport: This airport is the closest international airport, located only 10 miles north of Apple Valley.
Bus Stations Near Apple Valley
- Greyhound: The nearest Greyhound station is located in St. Paul, just a short drive from Apple Valley.
Other Options
- Car rentals: Renting a car is a great option for visitors who want to explore the surrounding areas at their own pace.
How to Get Around in Apple Valley
Getting around Apple Valley is easy, and visitors can choose from public transportation, taxis, or rental cars.
Where to Go Next from Apple Valley: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Minneapolis: A thriving and culturally rich city that is home to many attractions, including the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Walker Art Center, and more.
- St. Paul: The capital city of Minnesota is known for its neoclassical architecture, the Science Museum of Minnesota, and more.
Conclusion
Apple Valley has something for everyone. From outdoor adventures to cultural attractions, visitors will leave with memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re there for a week or only a few days, the city’s charm and friendly locals will make an unforgettable trip.
