Now that the ground has thawed, the days are getting longer, and we’ve (hopefully) seen the last lingering springtime snowfall, it’s time for Minnesotans and visitors alike to get outside and explore the Twin Cities. Radisson Blu’s #BluRoutes offers pre-planned routes for runners, walkers and joggers alike that start and end at either the Mall of America or locations across downtown Minneapolis. Whether you’re after a brisk morning jog or a leisurely stroll between meetings, #BluRoutes offers a chance to get some exercise and sightsee on foot.
A full list of #BluRoutes for Radisson Blu locations worldwide is available on their website, but below are a few Twin Cities highlights.
Radisson Blu Minneapolis Downtown
Take a tour of Nicollet Mall and the theater district on one of the 5k routes—it’s a perfect way to scout restaurants and entertainment so that you can treat yourself after getting some exercise. Route Two also meanders through some of the best green space in the city through Loring Park and takes you past the iconic sculpture garden.
A taste of local history can be found on a different 5k loop that crosses the Mississippi River in clear view of the Stone Arch Bridge and Mill Ruins Park. You can easily modify the route to cross the pedestrian-only bridge if you’re willing to tack on a little extra distance. St. Anthony Falls adds a touch of nature to the trek before it winds back to the hotel.
For the endurance runner (or the extra-thorough sightseer), a 10k option combines all the sights of both 5k routes. Another quick 1.3-mile route is pet friendly with plenty of downtown green space. And for art lovers, the #BluRoutes website features links to some of the top art locations in the city from outdoor murals to museums.
There’s more to Bloomington than just the Mall of America. Unlike the downtown routes, the MOA #BluRoutes highlight the natural wildlife and scenic beauty Minnesota is known for. A 4-mile journey through the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife refuge brings you from the hotel to forest and borders one of Minnesota’s more than 10,000 lakes. If you’re up for a challenge, an 11-mile route winds through hills and wetlands to the far side of Long Meadow Lake. Keep an eye out for the native wildlife—you might just spot an eagle or white tail deer.
Several indoor options are available for winter travelers or power shoppers at the Mall of America and Ikea. Connected to the Radisson Blu, the Mall of America is a staple for visitors thanks to its colossal size and indoor amusement park, not to mention the state’s 0 percent sales tax on clothing. A single lap inside the mall comes out to 1.15 miles, and three full levels allow you to vary the shopping scenery. Doors open before any retailers at 6 a.m., so get an early start to beat the crowds.
