I played hooky on Tuesday and visited the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. Located in Chaska, it features 1,137 acres of natural areas, public gardens, and more than 5,000 plant species. The day was hot – almost 90 – and the sun was out in full force. I hiked all over the place taking photos and admiring the beautiful flowers, thoroughly exhausting myself by the end of the day.

The arboretum has different displays every now and then, and the current display is of 26 LEGO creatures throughout the grounds. Sean Kenney, the artist and “professional kid,” uses LEGO brick pieces to design and create contemporary sculpture for high-profile clients, major corporations, and venues around the globe.

The morning started with an hour-long open-air tram ride around what they call “Three Mile Drive.” The guide was interesting and full of facts, and I got an overview of the whole place so I new what to spend my time walking to.

The arboretum has a restaurant – cafeteria style – and the food was delicious! I chose the half chicken salad sandwich on a croissant, fresh fruit, a very interesting potato salad, and a chocolate chip cookie for dessert – $11.00 and worth every penny.

It is a gorgeous place, and if you’re in the twin Cities area, it’s definitely worth going to. They are open 363 days a year (closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day). For more info visit http://www.arboretum.umn.edu/