Outside in MN

No experience required. From Minnesota Public Radio and MPR News, Outside in MN provides timely weather updates, events and how-to guides to prepare you for your next outdoor adventure. Download the app and get outside!

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15,000 free hot dogs, wiener dog races and small town charm? That’s Hot Dog Nite in Luverne
The town of about 5,000 nestled along the Rock River in far southwestern Minnesota has been celebrating this quirky little festival for six decades and counting.
Twin Cities named among 2024’s best places to bike
The Twin Cities were ranked in the top 10 of PeopleForBikes’ annual City Ratings. Minneapolis ranked No. 1 and St. Paul ranked No. 4.
How to build a campfire that lasts, in GIFs
Whether you're headed camping or just building a fire in your backyard, follow these steps to build a fire that won't go out before you can spear your marshmallow.
Jay Cooke Swinging Bridge celebrates its centennial with free park day, summer of events
In honor of the bridge’s big birthday, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is celebrating with a summer of educational programming and events for park visitors. It all kicks off with Free Park Day on Saturday.
Nature deficit: Kids have much to gain by going outside
Experts say that getting kids out in nature holds potential to boost their physical and mental health, support healthy development and improve academics.
Black-led nature retreat center faces pushback on North Shore
A nature-based retreat center planned outside Two Harbors aimed at providing a restorative getaway for Black, Indigenous and people of color, is receiving pushback from some local residents over concerns of noise, traffic, and other impacts on their rural “way of life.” 
Inspiration and advice for summer gardening  
Minnesota growing seasons are getting longer and warmer with climate change. MPR News host Angela Davis talks with two gardening experts about what that means for planting and taking care of your garden heading into summer.
Fishing with wolves: New exhibit explores what the predators eat in summer
Wolves in northern Minnesota usually hunt deer and beaver. But in summer months, they also eat berries and fish. A new exhibit at the International Wolf Center in Ely explores how the animals survive during the summer months.
The Minnesota DNR wants your tasty fish recipes
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources wants anglers to add their favorite fish recipe to the Wild Minnesota Recipe Exchange. The agency hopes the exchange will inspire people to try new ways to enjoy their piscatorial success.