North Star State Adventures: Zoo Animals, Haunted Hotels, and Home
Zoo Animals, Haunted Halls, and Home: Our Minnesota Adventure
I am back from a fantastic, whirlwind trip to Minnesota, and I’m still buzzing from all the different things we packed into one weekend. It was a perfect blend of cozy family time, wildlife exploration, and a little bit of spooky adventure.
The main reason for the trip, of course, was to visit Hunter’s mother. It’s always so grounding to spend time with her - filled with laughs, good food, great conversations, and that family vibe that instantly makes you feel at home. It’s a wonderful kind of calm that offsets the usual busy chaos of life.
The trip was even better because our dearest friend, Sophie, was able to come up from St. Louis to join us! There’s nothing like seeing a familiar face miles away from home to make a place feel instantly warmer. Having her there turned our weekend into a full-on group adventure.
Day of the Beasts: The Minnesota Zoo
One of highlights of the trip was definitely our visit to the Minnesota Zoo. The crisp autumn air make walking between the exhibits really pleasant. I love how the zoo feels less like cages and more like exploring different immersive habitats.
We spent a good chunk of time at the Prairie Dog exhibit. Watching the prairie dogs chattering, darting into their burrows, and standing guard - they were pure captivating energy! It was one of those perfect moments where I felt totally disconnected from the usual noise of life, just absorbing the simple wonders of the natural world.
A Night of Chills: The Haunted Pop-Up at the Hyatt
We checked out a haunted pop-up experience that was running at the Hyatt Hotel. Honestly, I wasn't sure what to expect from a temporary haunt in a city conference area, but wow, it delivered! They did a brilliant job with the theme and atmosphere.
Until Next Time, Minnesota
From the warmth and comfort of visiting Robyn, to the fun with Sophie, to the quiet awe at the zoo, and the sheer terror at the Hyatt, this trip had a bit of everything. It’s a great reminder that the best trips are often about the people you share them with, and the memories you create—no matter how silly or how grand.
Now that I’m back, I’m feeling recharged and ready to get back to writing and exploring the next thing. Thanks for letting me share this slice of my life with you!
P.S. Which sounds more fun to you: a peaceful afternoon with the zoo animals, or a night of screaming through a haunted house? Let me know in the comments!
