GRETA’S Morgan Creek Vineyards New Ulm, MN
Morgan Creek Vineyards has one of those picturesque spots that you see on Instagram, but are never quite sure really exists. Nestled back way into the rural countryside on a gravel road somewhat near New Ulm is Morgan Creek Vineyards. The setting involves a small shop built into the slope like an underground house. They have a big red barn and the most magnificent old oak tree you have ever seen. You can order all the personal sized wood-fired pizzas you want—my personal favorite includes sauerkraut on it! Oh, and did I mention that they’re a vineyard? So there are plenty of wine options to go around. On Fridays and Saturdays during the summer evenings there is usually live jazz music and a bonfire going, just in case you weren’t already convinced.
WYSIWYG Juice Mankato, MN
WYSIWYG Juice is probably one of the most community-centered businesses I have visited. The owners, Kristi and Marie, founded the juice company to be a place of hope and positivity after both losing their husbands to cancer. I love Kristi’s attitude that every challenge and hardship is “an opportunity”, plus they make the most amazing chia seed pudding and made-from-scratch almond milks. The street where the juice company sits is now thriving with restaurants and shops galore, but had none of that even a few years ago. Co-owner Kristi was a huge part of some of that rehabilitation of the area.
8 MAKE IT MINNESOTA