Oldest Twin Cities: A Guide to Historic Treasures

From an old-school magic shop tracing back to 1899 to a sacred cave tucked below 450-million-year-old bluffs, Oldest Twin Cities pays homage to the enduring treasures and natural wonders in our midst. While blending old-world history with modern-day relevance, local writer Julie Jo Severson shares a wealth of insider nuggets and backstories about the region she's called home most of her life. Discover the rich heritage of Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding communities as she takes you to time-honored shops, eateries, theaters, dive bars, museums, churches, clubhouses, parks, bluff tops, cemeteries, sanctuaries, and neighborhoods. Sit next to a crystal-clear natural spring flowing out of ancient limestone. Hike along a trail in the footsteps of Dakota ancestors. Explore mill ruins and excavated bridge artifacts along the riverfront. Climb a spiraling staircase to the attic and dome of a 150-year-old courthouse. Sip a glass of Ratafia at Minnesota's oldest winery. Feast on spaghetti and giant meatballs at a fourth-generation Italian restaurant, once a favorite hangout for immigrants with nicknames like Moon Face and Chili Joe, who'd climb up from the steep hidden valley across the street. Whether you're longing to reconnect with your metropolitan home, planning a different kind of itinerary for out-of-town guests, or shopping for a smart and timeless gift, you'll marvel at the vibrant glimpses of life, culture, and human perseverance glistening within the stories of Oldest Twin Cities.