The Cargill Building is secured, a UMN card is required to unlock entry. During the registration and break/social times there will be someone in the atrium to let attendees in. If you arrive while the meeting is in session, text Rebecca (612-845-2710) and someone will come let you in.
WiFi:
Eduroam is available through the St. Paul Campus – if you have trouble, there’s also ‘UofM-Guest’ that can be accessed without a password.
Weather:
April in the Twin Cities is unpredictable - average temperatures are in the mid-50s during the day and mid-30s at night, but this changes a lot as the month goes on. Fingers crossed for weather closer to the 70s.
Food:
St. Paul Campus
Mim’s - mediterranean and coffee spot - mostly lunch though I think open for dinner
Student Center - A few sandwich or grain bowl options, not great
Gopher Stop - downstairs from the Student Center, has some fried options and, importantly, UMN dairy ice cream.
Roseville Area
Tons of places near the mall - a few favorites below
Mi Sant - fast casual Vietnamese sandwiches and bowls
Centro - Mexican
Karta Thai
India Palace
Portillos - Chicago dogs, burgers, Italian beef, chocolate cake shake(!)
Iconic vibes
Matt’s Bar - home of the juicy lucy, I think it’s cash only
Al’s Diner - for early risers, this counter-service only and cash only spot is worth a visit
Marc Heu Patisserie - pastry heaven
Pizzeria Lola or Young Joni - both owned by Ann Kim, Lola is more low-key
Things to do:
The Mill City Museum - this one could be tough, it’s closed Wednesdays and only open 10-4 on Thursday and Friday, but this is a great place to learn a bit about the importance of wheat in the history of the Twin Cities. Also a great place to wander around along the Mississippi river and check out the Stone Arch Bridge.
The Walker Art Center - This is a big museum that features a large sculpture garden. The sculpture garden is free, so a great option if the weather is nice.
The Bell Museum and Planetarium - natural history museum walking distance from The Cargill Building, open 10-4 Wed-Sun $15 dollar admission
The Minneapolis Institute of Art (MIA) - Free admission with an extensive curated collection along with rotating exhibitions
Como Park Zoo and Conservatory - Open 10-4 and a short drive from the St. Paul campus. A great conservatory with free admission ($4 suggested donation)
Baseball - The Twins will be home on Friday April 11 for a 710 game in downtown Minneapolis. For a cheaper, lower key, experience, the minor league St. Paul Saints are home all three nights of the conference with start times of 630 with fireworks on Friday.
