Columbia Heights-Fridley Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Columbia Heights-Fridley in Twin Cities, Minnesota, with our comprehensive guide. Explore its natural wonders, cultural attractions, delicious cuisine, and more!


Introduction to Columbia Heights-Fridley

Located in the heart of Midwest in the state of Minnesota, Columbia Heights-Fridley is a peaceful and picturesque city that is a perfect blend of modern urban life and natural wonders. Twin Cities, which includes Minneapolis and St. Paul, is just 15 minutes away from Columbia Heights-Fridley. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, Columbia Heights-Fridley has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Columbia Heights-Fridley

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Heights Theater

Built in 1926, the Heights Theater is a historic landmark of Columbia Heights-Fridley and is known for showing classic and current movies. Don’t miss the stunning interior of the theater, which is designed with Italian Renaissance decor.

Columbia Heights Historical Society

Visit the Columbia Heights Historical Society to learn about the city’s history, heritage, and culture. You can explore the archives, take a guided tour, or participate in various activities and events.

Natural Attractions of Columbia Heights-Fridley: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Silverwood Park

Silverwood Park is a 164-acre park that offers a peaceful and serene environment with walking trails, gardens, and an art gallery. You can also enjoy fishing, boating, and picnic areas.

Springbrook Nature Center

Springbrook Nature Center is a 127-acre park with beautiful walking trails through wetlands, woodlands, and prairies. You can also visit the nature center to experience various exhibits and learn more about the local flora and fauna.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Columbia Heights-Fridley

Rice Creek North Regional Trail

The Rice Creek North Regional Trail is a 5.5-mile trail that connects various parks and natural areas in the city. The trail is perfect for hiking, biking, or jogging.

Mississippi River Trail

The Mississippi River Trail is a 26-mile trail along the Mississippi River that offers scenic views of the river and the surrounding landscape. The trail is perfect for hiking, biking, or just a leisurely walk.

Best Things to Do in Columbia Heights-Fridley: Activities and Tours

Segway Tour

Explore Columbia Heights-Fridley in a unique way with a Segway tour. You can book a tour with Segway Tours of Minnesota and explore the city with a guide on a Segway.

Brewery Tour

If you’re a beer fanatic, don’t miss the opportunity to take a brewery tour. Visit the dozens of breweries and taprooms in the Twin Cities to sample the local brews and learn more about the brewing process.

Week-Long Itinerary for Columbia Heights-Fridley

Day 1: Visit the Heights Theater and explore the city’s historic landmarks.

Day 2: Visit Silverwood Park and take a leisurely stroll through the gardens.

Day 3: Take a Segway tour of the city to explore all the sights.

Day 4: Visit Springbrook Nature Center and learn about the local flora and fauna.

Day 5: Take a brewery tour and sample the local brews.

Day 6: Explore the Rice Creek North Regional Trail on foot or on a bike.

Day 7: Relax and enjoy the city’s various parks and walking trails.

Food and Drink Scene of Columbia Heights-Fridley

Must-Try Dishes

Swedish Meatballs

Columbia Heights-Fridley has a strong Swedish heritage, and Swedish meatballs are a must-try dish. You can find this dish at various restaurants in the Twin Cities area.

Juicy Lucy

The Juicy Lucy is a mouth-watering burger that is stuffed with cheese. You can find this dish at Matt’s Bar, which is just a short drive from Columbia Heights-Fridley.

Local Beverages

Grain Belt Beer

Grain Belt beer is a local favorite and a must-try for beer lovers. The beer is brewed in Minneapolis and can be found at various bars and restaurants throughout the Twin Cities.

Summit Beer

Summit beer is another local favorite that is brewed in St. Paul. This beer is known for its smooth taste and can also be found at various bars and restaurants throughout the Twin Cities.

Where to Stay in Columbia Heights-Fridley: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Livinn Hotel

Livinn Hotel is a great option for those looking for a comfortable and convenient stay. The hotel is located in Fridley and offers various amenities, including a fitness center and free parking.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Minneapolis Downtown

Embassy Suites by Hilton Minneapolis Downtown is a more upscale option for those looking for a luxurious stay. The hotel is located in the heart of Minneapolis and offers various amenities, including a spa and fitness center.

What to Buy in Columbia Heights-Fridley: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Swedish Dala Horse

The Swedish Dala Horse is a popular souvenir that represents the city’s Swedish heritage. You can find these hand-carved wooden horses at various stores in the city.

Wild Rice

Wild Rice is a local delicacy and a great gift to bring back home. You can find various vendors at the Twin Cities farmers’ markets selling wild rice.

Local Culture and Customs of Columbia Heights-Fridley

Columbia Heights-Fridley has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its Swedish and Polish heritage. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and it’s important to respect their customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Columbia Heights-Fridley

The best time to visit Columbia Heights-Fridley is from June to September when the weather is warm and sunny. You can enjoy various outdoor activities and events during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Columbia Heights-Fridley

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

  • Explore the city’s natural wonders and historic landmarks.

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural areas.

  • Disrespect the locals or their customs.

  • Ignore the traffic laws and regulations.

Safety and Health

Safety in Columbia Heights-Fridley

Columbia Heights-Fridley is a safe city with low crime rates. However, it’s always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Health in Columbia Heights-Fridley

There are various hospitals and healthcare facilities in the Twin Cities area that offer high-quality medical care.

Getting to Columbia Heights-Fridley: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Columbia Heights-Fridley

The Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport is the closest airport to Columbia Heights-Fridley and is just a 30-minute drive away.

Bus Stations Near Columbia Heights-Fridley

The Greyhound Bus Station is located in downtown Minneapolis and offers various connections to other cities in the Midwest.

Other Options

You can also rent a car or take a taxi to Columbia Heights-Fridley.

How to Get Around in Columbia Heights-Fridley

The best way to get around Columbia Heights-Fridley is by car or by bike. The city has various bike trails and bike lanes that make it easy to explore.

Where to Go Next from Columbia Heights-Fridley: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Minneapolis

Minneapolis is just a short drive away from Columbia Heights-Fridley and is known for its vibrant cultural scene, breathtaking architecture, and world-class dining options.

St. Paul

St. Paul is the capital of Minnesota and is known for its historic landmarks, stunning architecture, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Conclusion

Columbia Heights-Fridley is a hidden gem in the Midwest that offers a perfect blend of natural wonders, historic landmarks, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, Columbia Heights-Fridley has something for everyone. So come and explore the city and discover its beauty for yourself!

The Heights Theater The Heights Theater