In the heart of Minnesota, you will find a scene of crystal lakes, and wooded hills. Minnesota's Central Region is home to a variety of towns and cities - like Alexandria, Brainerd and St. Cloud - that provide the visitor with a blend of activities for the whole family.Located just to the northwest of Minneapolis / St. Paul, the region is an easy drive for a family vacation or weekend getaway. Many of the Minnesota's 10,000 lakes, including Mille Lacs, are found in the Central Region. Water activities such as boating, water skiing, and fishing are found near almost every community.Minnesotans love to golf, and the scenic golf courses here show it. There are over 70 courses within the region for visitors to enjoy. There are plenty of other activities too - ride the miles of paved bike trails, or spend a day visiting our beautiful scenic byways. Shop till you drop at our shopping malls, outdoor stores, antique and gift shops. Don't miss the art galleries, theatre and the interesting cultural sites You'll find family resorts with fun children's activities, full service resorts with spa's and golf, romantic bed and breakfasts, and hotel accommodations to meet your every needs. http://exploreminnesota.com/region-central/rss-events 2009-11-19T12:30:14.0000000-06:00 http://exploreminnesota.com/event/25214/starbuck/explore-the-minnesota-skies 2009-11-19T12:30:15.0000000-06:00 25214$0 <img align="left" valign"top" src="http://exploreminnesota.com//assets/images/icons/calendar/gr_nightsky3.png" border="0" />Starbuck<br />Join local amateur astronomers and view the night sky as you’ve never seen it before! Learn about the constellations, stars, and planets, and then loo<br style="clear:both;" /> http://exploreminnesota.com/event/19103/willmar/holidaze-parade 2009-11-19T12:30:15.0000000-06:00 19103$0 <img align="left" valign"top" src="http://exploreminnesota.com//assets/images/icons/calendar/gr_parades.png" border="0" />Willmar<br />Come and get into the spirit of Christmas as you watch and enjoy a Christmas parade with lights and decorated floats. A fun event for the entire fam<br style="clear:both;" /> http://exploreminnesota.com/event/23546/st-cloud/gingerbread-arts-and-crafts-show 2009-11-19T12:30:15.0000000-06:00 23546$0 <img align="left" valign"top" src="http://exploreminnesota.com//assets/images/icons/calendar/gr_basket.png" border="0" />St Cloud<br />Annual Craft Show that exhibits amazing work!<br style="clear:both;" />