By Lisa Berkas | Published September 18, 2026 When you want big-metro energy without the hassle, the Twin Cities Gateway delivers the complete Minnesota escape. In this featured episode of Travel Perks, host Perk dives into what makes the 11 northern metro communities an adventure-packed destination for families, foodies, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.   TL;DR The Travel Perks show visited the Twin Cities Gateway to highlight the best dining, recreation, and family attractions just minutes north of Minneapolis and Saint Paul. From championship golf courses and waterpark thrills to mouthwatering Texas-style barbecue, this episode captures why the 11 Gateway communities—Anoka, Arden Hills, Blaine, Coon Rapids, Fridley, Ham Lake, Lino Lakes, Mounds View, New Brighton, Ramsey, and Shoreview—offer the ideal Twin Cities weekend getaway. Highlights from the Episode Adrenaline Family Fun: Watch Perk test out high-energy waterslides and indoor aquatic attractions perfect for all ages. Championship Golf: Get an inside look at premier fairways and public greens that rank among the top golfing destinations in the state. Slow-Smoked Flavors: Experience standout local culinary spots, including authentic Texas-style barbecue that rivals anything down South. Easy Access to 11 Communities: Quick connectivity across Anoka, Arden Hills, Blaine, Coon Rapids, Fridley, Ham Lake, Lino Lakes, Mounds View, New Brighton, Ramsey, and Shoreview. Plan Your Gateway Getaway Whether you are in town for youth sports tournaments, planning a couple’s retreat, or packing up the family for a long weekend, the Gateway makes trip planning effortless. Enjoy free hotel parking, premier shopping, regional park reserves, and hundreds of miles of scenic trails, all just minutes from downtown Minneapolis and Saint Paul. Frequently Asked Questions What is the Twin Cities Gateway? The Twin Cities Gateway is a regional tourism collective representing 11 vibrant communities directly north of Minneapolis and Saint Paul: Anoka, Arden Hills, Blaine, Coon Rapids, Fridley, Ham Lake, Lino Lakes, Mounds View, New Brighton, Ramsey, and Shoreview. Where can I watch the full episode? You can watch the full episode embedded right above or catch it directly on the Travel Perks Facebook and YouTube channels. What activities are featured in the video? The feature focuses on top regional attractions, highlighted by local golf courses, family-friendly  waterparks, and top-tier local eateries like slow-smoked barbecue. Why stay in the Twin Cities Gateway instead of downtown? Staying in the Gateway offers modern lodging, free hotel parking, quieter neighborhood settings, and easy access to both nature trails and major Twin Cities attractions without downtown congestion. Check out our hotels! The post Exploring the Twin Cities Gateway with Travel Perks appeared first on Twin Cities Gateway. ...read more read less