“Because I have a sister, I’ll always have a friend (who steals my clothes, is brutally honest, doesn’t care much for boundaries… and is an absolute blast to be with).”
I think that’s how the saying goes, at least. But in all honesty, sisters have a bond that nothing can replace. So on this National Sisters Day, we want to help you spend some quality time with your sister (or soul sister, or best friend, or cousin… you get it). And what better place to do it than in Greater St. Cloud!
Start your Friday out early – bye, boss – and make an afternoon trip to home-décor-heaven in Waite Park. All located within less than a mile of each other, Modern Barnyard, Salvage Sisters and Rusty Pick are truly unique shopping experiences. Find the cheeky kitchen sign you’ve been missing in your life at Modern Barnyard. Discover the aqua-blue rustic curio you now can’t live without at Salvage Sisters. And reminisce among the rows of antiques at The Rusty Pick. You will not be leaving here empty-handed!
Or, if you’re more into creating your own homey goods, Craft’s Direct is Central Minnesota’s largest craft store. Try not to get lost as you spend hours perusing every aisle of yarn, wood accents, sequins, flowers, canvases, paint and more. Once you’re plum full of DIY treasures, head to your hotel to check in. The Courtyard by Marriott in downtown St. Cloud has rooms that will make you guys feel like the queens you really are, and it’s walking distance from all the hustle and bustle of downtown.
Do a little touch up and then get ready for an evening on the town. Find your inner Carrie and Miranda with happy hour at The Martini Lounge. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, walk over to Olde Brick House for an authentic Irish experience. Don’t skip the appetizers either – the rueben wontons are unforgettable. But don’t linger too long, there’s nightlife waiting for your sassy sister souls! After your meal, the options are endless. Catch a play at the historic Paramount Theatre, rock out to a local band at the Pioneer Place Theatre, indulge in a Hairy Buffalo at MC’s Dugout, catch some chill vibes with a live show at Jules’ Bistro, or dance the night away at The Red Carpet Nightclub. Either way, it’ll be a night to remember!
Saturday morning – feeling good? Ready to go? Let’s do this thing! Start the day with a kick-in-the-pants coffee from Rock Creek Coffeehouse and a donut from Dutch Maid Bakery to go. Bring that tasty treat over to Munsinger and Clemens Gardens for a peaceful stroll while you discuss some family drama (just kidding, we encourage drama-free-sister-cationing). Check out the Riverside Dam while you’re there, and you might even see some duckies!
After your morning walk, hope in the car and head just down Highway 10 to Clearwater, where you’ll find Clear Waters Outfitting. Here, you can rent a kayak, canoe, or paddle board, and they will shuttle you to a starting point along the Mississippi River. Then you can paddle back at your leisure along the wooded shores and scenic bluffs of the Mississippi, with plenty of time for laughter built in. It’s fun for all ages and skill levels!
By the time you’re finished paddling, you might be in the mood for some lunch. If you want to stay in Clearwater, Nelson Brother’s Restaurant is a must-do! Plus: Giant. Donuts. Need we say more? Or if you’re eager to get back into town, we recommend hitting up Crooked Pint Ale House. With the MN classic Juicy Lucy on the menu and several different beers on tap, you can’t go wrong.
All fueled up? How ‘bout a hike? Quarry Park and Nature Preserve was once the site of over twenty granite quarries that are now turned into a natural area with walking paths, swimming quarries, rock climbing, and more. Explore the history of the granite industry at the antique Liberty Derrick and house, stretch your legs along the groomed paths, and don’t forget your camera! Plus, the swimming beach at Quarry 11 was named the best beach in Minnesota by Orbitz!
What’s that you say? It’s time for a beer? We agree, and Beaver Island Brewing Company is calling your name! Share a flight of local brews with your sister on the patio or in the festive taproom. Not a beer lover? Grab a glass of your favorite vino at The Veranda instead! And when you work up an appetite, it’s time to head to the one and only Anton’s Restaurant. Formerly a speakeasy and a transfer point for Minnesota 13 moonshine, Anton’s offers local fare from wild rice to fresh-caught walleye, all in a unique and historic dining experience. When you’ve had your fill, it’s time to call it a day and head back to the Courtyard. In fact, it sounds like the perfect evening for a dip in the hot tub – you know you want to!
Gooood morning! How we doing this morning? Ready for a little bit more adventure? Great! First stop: grub. Looking for that homestyle breakfast? Check out
the Copper Lantern. Craving something more on-the-go? The Courtyard by Marriott’s Bistro serves Starbucks coffee and has a full breakfast menu! Either way, don’t go hungry…
…because you wouldn’t want your stomach to grumble during your sister/sister pedicure, massage, and facial at Daylily Spa Salon. Indulge in complete relaxation – you’ve earned it! Once you’re feeling rested and rejuvenated, keep the train rolling into relaxation station with a trip to see a Sunday Matinee at the Parkwood Cinema in the Dream Loungers. Your only worry will be not falling asleep! If you’ve managed to work up an appetite during your day of rest, we recommend picking up some Ko-z’s Eats & Sweets to go for the road on your way out of town. Healthy, fast, and delicious!
No matter how you choose to spend your time with your sister in Greater St. Cloud, the most important part is that you have fun! If you’re looking for the perfect sister getaway customized to your likes, feel free to reach out to us at Visit Greater St. Cloud – we love making recommendations, and helping you make memories that last a lifetime!