The clean, modern Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul straddle the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers. Visit the University of Minnesota and its funky Dinkytown district in St. Paul, the capital, then cross the river for fantastic dining in Minneapolis. Hike along the Gateway trail, and old rail route connecting St. Paul to Stillwater, and pass by plenty of rolling hills, ponds, and marshes. For a city escape, try skiing or hiking through lovely Fort Snelling.