Strolling through the park

Robin Williams was right when he said, "Spring is nature's way of saying, 'Let's party!'" (quotegarden.com). So, accept the invitation and take a stroll through the park, explore some local history, and walk walk walk. Where? Northfield is the perfect place and downtown is the perfect place to begin. Follow the advice of a local poet:  "Do not be afraid to let your mind wander" while your feet search out the winning entries of the Sidewalk Poetry Walking Tour Map (click here).  Or ponder as you stroll about, learning about the history of the local buildings from the Historic Sites and Points of Interest: Northfield self-guided tour map (brochures available at www.northfieldchamber.com).  Stop and shop if hunger grabs your attention or you need a cup of coffee and pastry to help you think or you just want to explore the businesses inside those interesting buildings.

Continue your stroll to the Cannon River Walkway, see what is happening at Bridge Square, and check out the art, crafts, farm produce and goods booths at the Riverwalk Market Fair June through October.  If you have energy to burn, jog on over to Carleton College's Cowling Arboretum to learn about birding or to enjoy a run on one of the many trails on this 800 acre State Game Refuge.  (Go here for more information.)

For a visitor's take on Northfield, click here to read Lara Dunning's post Loonshine, Nature Trails and Jesse James on the Minn-Roadtrip to Northfield, MN.  Compare notes and plan your next foray into spring and Rice County's many offerings for a stroll through the park.

_{CREDIT:     cbsminnesota.files and Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church}