Radisson Hotel and Waterpark Of America in Bloomington, MN

For our family's biggest summer vacation, we headed to Bloomington, MN, to stay at the Radisson Waterpark Of America and to visit the Mall Of America. We got all packed up and headed 4 hours south to The Cities. This will be our first time staying at the Radisson Waterpark Of America. We were worried because Jodi called to ask if they had an ADA handicapped room with a roll-in shower. They said they did not. I called the same place not knowing Jodi called there earlier. I asked the same thing that Jodi asked: if they had an ADA handicapped room with a roll-in shower, and they said they did. So, we were not sure what to expect when checking into our room, but we were hopeful that our stay would go smoothly.

Arriving at the hotel, the lobby was packed with people. The line was very long, and they had ropes to the counter, but a kind gentleman that was staying as well helped move the ropes for me. When getting up to the counter to check in, the counter was too high for being in a wheelchair. It would have been nice to see a lower counter for me to sign and not be looked down on. We were not recognized for being Club Carlson members. I showed the hostess my number, and she said, "Oh I have it right here." 

We got the package that got us four passes to Waterpark Of America and four passes to Nickelodeon Universe at the Mall Of America. We needed to get me a dry pass, since I am in a wheelchair and could not access all the areas. When I made the reservation, they said that it would be at a discounted price. 

As we got to our room we saw room service plates in front of our door. It was very unappealing and not a good start to our stay. There was cleaning staff down the hall. As we are getting ready to go to the waterpark, we thought she would take it. But, when we left the room, the plates were still there. Also, while in the room, I had to use the bathroom, and the toilet seat was very loose. I was afraid to fall off or that it was going to break. Others used the toilet and said the seat being that loose was scary. 

We headed down to the waterpark and wanted to talk to a manager. We were not looking forward to being in the long line. We saw a maintenance staff coming by. His name was Roberto. We told him we wanted to speak to a manager. He asked what the issue was. Roberto went and got the manager on duty, William (Willie). While we were waiting to talk to the manager, Roberto went right away to fix the toilet seat. We told William the issues that we had since check-in, and he said, if we had any other problems, to let him know. 

We got to the waterpark counter to get my dry pass, and the same thing as in the main lobby: the counter was too high. We asked for a pass for wheelchair, and the lady was charging us full price. We said that it was for wheelchair, and that I am not going to be able to take full advantage of the park. But, she still rung us up for full price. Then, we mentioned that when we made our reservation, they said I could get a dry pass that would be at a discounted price. She finally gave us the correct pass.

 

Overall, our family enjoyed Waterpark Of America, there just needs to be more tubes for the amount of people that visit. For wheelchairs, there is plenty to do, with easy access to the wave pool and in Fort Snelling (the water playground with the giant bucket). There was a lift chair to lower you into the water into a tube near the Lazy River. The only challenge was the accessible ramp that goes across to the other side of the park. It had some steep parts, so being by myself would have been difficult. And the visitors that use the ramp would have to turn around so we could get by, luckily people were considerate, but that may not be the case all the time. A standard size 32" wheelchair will work best in the waterpark and in the hotel. Also, inside the waterpark the air was cold, a lot of us were shivering.  

 

Back in our room to shower, I rolled into the shower, and I couldn't reach the showerhead. If someone was staying by themselves, they wouldn't be able to reach the showerhead. So, I am glad I had my family there. When I was not using the showerhead, there was nowhere to hang it, raise it, or lower it to where I needed it. The bar that I would place the showerhead to where I needed it was there but the hook on the showerhead was missing. 

The king-size bed was a nice size for Jodi and I. But, with having one leg to get up from the bed, the bed was too low. When we were lying in bed, I noticed inside the light above the bed was full of dust. It was gross and didn't seem to reach the Radisson's high standards. Christopher and Jonathan really enjoyed the bunk beds that were in the wall, with little nightlights, and a curtain. KayMarie thought the sofa bed was okay, but the bar in the middle hurt her back. And, there were no blankets for her. I had to call and request them. 

When checking out, we talked to the manager on duty. His name was Willie. He listened to our concerns, was understandable, and made corrections for us that were fair. Even though there were some issues, our family did enjoy our stay and would visit again. We recommend Radisson Hotel and the Waterpark Of America as a STOP IN, but fixing these minor issues will make it a even more enjoyable stay for all who visit. 

Check out all the rides at Radisson Hotel and Waterpark of America!

Ledge Rock Grille in Two Harbors, MN

 

It was my month to take Jodi out on our monthly date night. I searched on the internet for places outside of Duluth, and Ledge Rock Grille came up. The reviews looked outstanding, so I looked at their website and was very impressed. They have their menu online, showed pictures of their dining room, and I saw a link that caught my interest about eating at the Chef's Table. I had to call to get more information.

When I called Ledge Rock Grille, the staff worker was very helpful while explaining the Chef's Table. It's a six-course meal that the chef puts together himself, and it's a personal way to show their skills that is different than what's on the menu. While at the Chef's Table, the chef interacts with you during the courses. The price to sit at the Chef's Table is $75.00 per person. For the experience, I thought it would be worth it. 

He mentioned that, since I'm in a wheelchair, the counter will be too high to sit at the Chef's Table. He said its close to five feet in height, but they would accommodate me with a table close to the Chef's Table. Before we hung up, he asked if there was anything else that they should know about, like food allergies or any other accommodations. That really impressed me a lot. They made me feel that our needs were a priority, and they valued us as a customer. 



Asian Spinach Salad

When we arrived for our reservation, handicapped parking was good. The outside of the Lodge was clean and inviting. We brought my standard size wheelchair. The doorway was wide enough, but my bigger wheelchair may not fit. Inside the Lodge, it was clean and warm. The staff welcomed us with smiles and asked if we needed help. 

When we got to the restaurant area, we were greeted kindly by the hostess, but we weren't asked if we had a reservation. I thought they knew, because I made sure that the reservation had that I was in a wheelchair. But, I had to mention it to the hostess. Going into the dining area, the tables were close together. So, I would have had a problem getting through, but the staff moved the tables without hesitation. It may have been a problem, if the tables were full.

Duck Liver Pate on Herb Crostini

The hostess sat us at a table near the Chef's Table. I did go up to the actual Chef's Table seating, and the counter was too high for a wheelchair. So, I am glad that they accommodated me. To be honest, I think I would rather sit at a table than the high bar stools, they would possibly get uncomfortable during a six-course meal. 

Our chef for our dinner was Chef Alex. He came over to our table, introduced himself, and explained his menu for the night. Then, our waitress came over and explained about having a wine pairing with each meal for an extra $19.00, which I did. 

 

Raspberry Sorbet & Champagne

Even though Jodi and I enjoyed everything on the menu, we did have some favorites. We both enjoyed the bacon-wrapped scallops the most. They were so good and cooked perfectly. The rack of lamb was very good as well. It was not in a marinade, but seasoned and grilled very well. The raspberry sorbet in champagne was very refreshing, but their famous S'mores cake was a great dessert to end the dinner. It was warm and gooey, just like a real S'more.


Grilled Lamb Rack with Rosemary Pesto

On the way out, the staff moved the tables, so I could get through. And, they were all kind to us during our visit. And, when going past the front desk, they were kind and friendly, saying thanks for visiting. We felt that our needs were taken care of, and we were treated as a priority as a guest. It was very personal.

Ledge Rock Grille also offers a Culinary Club. It's free to sign up. You can sign up online, or ask your server. You get a card in the mail, and, when you visit Ledge Rock Grille, you get 1 point for every dollar you spend. They have different levels of points that you can redeem to get rewards from Ledge Rock Grille to free nights in a cottage.



Smores Cake

If you are looking for a romantic dinner that offers a personal six-course meal from the chef's menu, then Ledge Rock Grille is a must STOP IN! Or, if you are looking for a family outing dinner overlooking Lake Superior, then stop in at Ledge Rock Grille. They do offer a menu with items such as steaks, seafood, lamb, wood-fired flatbreads, soups, salads, chicken, duck, burgers, and pastas. They also have a wine list and beer. They also have a 3-2-1 Happy Hour which is Daily from 3 – 5pm. Save $3.00 on any appetizer. Save $2.00 on any specialty drink. Save $1.00 on your choice of wine or beer.

Also, heated outdoor deck seating is now open for the summer! And, if you are looking for lodging, they have cottages at different rates. You can look online, call, or they have an online chat available on their website: Ledge Rock Grille.



Lakes 10 Cinema in Hermantown, MN

This was our first movie theater outing together as a family. We surprised the boys by seeing Monsters University. They were excited!

I used my bigger wheelchair and it fit thru the doors just fine. They were double doors with no bar in the middle. As we got up to the counter, we were greeted in a very friendly manner and with a smile. There was plenty of room to get around the ticket booth and enough room to get inside where our movie was. 

There was a family sitting in the wheelchair row. I wanted to sit with my family, so I went to the ticket counter and asked if they could ask some people to move. Without hesitation, they said they would be happy to help and ask them to move. Even though she told the wrong row, it was nice to be at a place with the willingness to accommodate. 

The family said they were comfortable in the seats, and I was able to see the movie just fine. For me, I am glad I had good brakes on my wheelchair. It seemed like I was at a slant, so I didn't want to move around too much. The sound and video quality was loud and crisp and gave that theater sound.
 

We have not been to a movie theater in years, but it seemed that they were in the price range of other concession stands. It would have been nice if they could offer free refills on drinks. 

We really enjoyed ourselves at Lake 10 theater. The staff was friendly when we arrived and when we were leaving. Lake 10 offers a free rewards program. When you visit, you gain points for rewards. We will definitely be back and suggest that you STOP IN for your next movie night out.

Research your visit at Lakes 10 Hermantown!

Five Guys in Duluth, MN

We have seen shows about the history on Five Guys, and a lot of people we know have tried Five Guys. On July 13, 2013, our family went to try Five Guys. I did not call ahead to ask about handicapped accessibility, or if was kid friendly, but we were excited to try it.

We brought both wheelchairs because we were going to see a movie afterwards. I went in with the 32" chair just to be on the safe side. The first set of doors were double but no bar in the middle, which then made me hopeful that the 36" chair would fit inside. Nope, the second set of doors only the 32" would fit, unless I would have pivoted. 

Once inside, we noticed other patrons getting salted peanuts in the shell to eat. We didn't see a sign saying free peanuts. but assumed it was ok. The peanuts were a nice added snack while we waited for our food. 

On the walls, for their decor, were awards and news articles they had been in. I remember from the show I watched that the five squares on the wall represents the five brothers. Colors were white and red, with a decent size dining area. It worked fine for the 32" chair, but not for the bigger one. 

We got up to the menu, and the cashier asked what we would like to order. I told her that we are first timers at Five Guys. She was very friendly and helpful explaining the menu. The Little Burgers are single patties, the others are double. It was amazing to see the toppings were free, and the fries you can order Five Guy style or Cajun style. We asked if the Cajun seasoning was really spicy, and she said it has some kick to it. She offered to put some of the Cajun seasoning in a container on the side, so that we could try it. 

After paying, they give you a number that they will call out when food is ready. We sat at the table listening to the upbeat music and watching the cooks work in unison while waiting for our number to be called. 

One thing we ask is why use canned mushrooms on good quality restaurant food? You have fresh tomatoes, lettuce, you even post where you got your potatoes. So why serve processed, spongy, canned mushrooms when fresh would taste so much better? Hope to see this changed on our next visit. 

Jodi ordered a Bacon Cheeseburger with onions, mayo, and mushrooms. She really liked the burger. She said it tasted really good and liked the simpleness of the wrappers. It let the food be the star. 

 

KayMarie ordered a Bacon Cheeseburger with pickles, tomatoes, mushrooms, and A1 Sauce.
 

Brian ordered a Bacon Cheeseburger as well, but all the way. I asked how much would it cost to add jalapeños, and the cashier said it costs nothing. I really liked the burger a lot. It tasted so good, but it needed fresh mushrooms. 

Christopher and Jonathan had a Little Bacon Cheeseburger with pickles, tomatoes, onions, ketchup, mustard, and mushrooms. They liked their burgers a lot. They got so full. 

We liked the fries a lot. They seemed like the old-fashioned fries you get at a carnival. They were in a cup in a brown paper bag, with a side cup of Cajun seasoning. Next time, we would like to try the seasoning cooked with the fries. Brian really enjoyed that they offered malt vinegar. He says it brought back memories as a child at the fair. 

Five Guys in Duluth, MN, is a STOP IN, kick back, enjoy the music, and the burgers, you will not be disappointed. 

Check it out at Five Guys!

Pizza Lucé in Duluth, MN

When we write a post, we like to visit the place to get the full experience. But, this post will be a little different. We had Pizza Lucé delivered to our hotel room at The Edge. The food was so good that we have to share about it.

The first thing we liked about Pizza Lucé was the unique pizza flavors. The second was the late hours that they still delivered. It allowed us to enjoy the waterpark longer and eat later. And, the third was that they delivered promptly and the food was done well. We didn't want to just order a pie that we can get back at home. 

Garlic Cheese Toast

Tangy BBQ Wings

We ordered Garlic Cheese Toast, served with sprinkled oregano and a side of red sauce. You can also order it dairy free with their vegan cheese or Rinotta* which contains nuts. 

 

We also ordered Luce's Chicken Wings they are a  21 time winner at the Minneapolis Wing-Capades. We ordered Tangy BBQ that is served with blue cheese dressing, but we believe we got an order of the Spicy Buffalo. They were so spicy that the family did not like them. Now, I like spicy foods, but I can say they were hot. You can order the wings Gluten Free upon request as an option as well. 

For our pizzas, we ordered the Greek Athena with fresh spinach, tomato, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, red onions, Greek oregano and toasted garlic with light mozzarella on Bianca sauce (white pizza). This is our new favorite pizza. We were not sure at first if we would like it, but all the flavors worked well together and tasted great, too. You can order Vegan and Gluten Free as well, upon request. 

Pizza Athena

The other pizza we ordered was the Pizza Lup'e, the flavors of Mexico, with black bean salsa, fresh pico de gallo, black olives, cheddar cheese, green onion, and seasoned beef. It is also served with shredded lettuce and a side of sour cream. We liked this pizza as well. It was stacked with ingredients, and the taste of fresh ingredients made a great Mexican pizza. You can order this pizza Gluten Free as well. 

Pizza Lup'e

So, if you are looking for a great pizza or other great menu choices, whether by delivery, take out, or dining in, Pizza Lucé is the place to get it. I know we will like to try dining in next time we are in Duluth. Pizza Lucé is a STOP IN or, in this case, a great choice for delivery. 

Check out their website at Pizza Luce!

Duluth Huskies At The Wade Stadium In Duluth, MN

 

We went to see the Duluth Huskies, as a start of our summer outings. I called the main number and left a message to get information about how accessible the park was. The Head Coach Daniel Hersey of the Huskies called me back and was very informative on how to get tickets, the handicapped accessibility, and how I would be able to sit together with my family.

We went on a Sunday June 2nd, 2013 for the Family Pack, you get 4 hot dogs, 4 small sodas, and 2 popcorns for $30.00 on home games. But, we needed an extra ticket for KayMarie with the food options, as well. Head Coach Daniel Hersey said they would charge $10.00 extra for the ticket and food. When we got to the gate to purchase our tickets and mentioned that we needed an extra ticket with the food, it took them awhile to completely understand what we needed. I even told them that the head coach called me and that is the price he said. They charged us the extra $10.00, and we were in. 



Huskies Dugout

The gate entrance was easily handicapped accessible, I was in my large chair which is bigger than the standard 32" chair. We didn't know where to go for the handicapped seating. The staff were kind, but they would just point directions. It would have been nice to have been ushered, since this was our
first time here. 

We got to the handicapped seating, and there were steps that I had a hard time getting passed. A standard chair would fit just fine, but my chair had to be angled just right to get through. People had to wait for me to get through. They were kind, but I got a bent wheel out of it. The handicapped seating was right next to the teams dugout, which brought an added bonus for Christopher's and Jonathan's first experience at a baseball game. My family was able to sit with me in the handicapped seating area which was great. 



#3 Kyle Teaf

Harley D. Huskie

The Sunday we went, it was a Double Header, and staff had said there was going to be fireworks. But, there was not, which was a little disappointing. That's why we stayed for second game, but, in the long run, it was a long day.

Another suggestion we have is having someone at the gate entrance directing visitors with kids to the information booth to sign up for the kids activity contests. Both Christopher and Jonathan asked where they could enter to try to win, we had to tell them that we were not sure. 





#6 Aaron Hernandez

We did have a lot of fun watching the Huskies play and buying a baseball for the meet and greet at the end of the game. Jonathan got to meet the players, and had them sign the baseball. He was really excited to be that close to the players for his first time. It was hard to get the wheelchair through the grass to get to the players, because it was wet and muddy, but it was worth it. 



#7 Garrett LaRosa and #22 Josh Alexander

For a reasonable, fun time at the ballpark and to support our local team this is a STOP IN.

Check it out at Duluth Huskies!

Restaurant 301 at the Sheraton Hotel in Duluth, Mn

Jodi made the reservation here for our date night on June 22nd, 2013, and what a great restaurant to visit! The whole time we were there, we were the only ones there, which was sad. Between the chef's skills and his tasty menu, this place should be filled every night. 

The setting was very romantic: white table tablecloth, linen napkins, candle, flowers, and nice dinnerware. The menu is made up of different ingredient combinations that work so well that it is the most unique menu we have tasted on the Northland. Our waitress, Sara Jean, was very helpful, kind, and knowledgeable of the menu items.

 





Lemon Balsamic Vinegar

Bread Basket

Restaurant 301 provides their menu on their website, so we knew what we would order when we got there, but it was still hard to choose. They brought us out a basket of bread with lemon balsamic butter. It was different: lemony, but so good.
 

Brian ordered two glasses of wine. He likes a more fruity taste. Our waitress, Sara Jean, suggested a red and a white wine, Marietta red old vine California lot 58 and Discoveries moscato California 2010. They were both very good: great aroma and accents.





Marietta Red Old Vine California lot 58





Beef Tenderloin Crustini

Spring Cheese Plate

We both ordered appetizers, so that we could try a little bit of everything, because everything sounded delicious. Jodi ordered the Beef Tenderloin Crustini, it had Cave-Aged Blue Cheese, Toasted BBQ Sauce, and Scallions. She said it was really good. The only thing that was different about it was the dollop of blue cheese. It seemed overpowering and out of place, but the other tastes worked together. 

 

Brian ordered the Spring Cheese Plate that came with Goat Cheese with Strawberry and Black Pepper Compote (which, in French, means "mixture" that is a dessert made of whole, or pieces, of fruit in sugar syrup). Manchango (which is cheese made from sheep's milk) with Greek Olives, Warm Brie with Smoked Almonds. I really liked this appetizer a lot, the goat cheese and strawberries was my favorite. As a cheese fan, I would order this again and would recommend this starter.

Spring Bone-In Lamb


For our entrees, Jodi ordered the Spring Bone-in-Lamb made with Butter Basted Domestic Lamb, Chocolate & Red Chili Veal Glace, Pan Fried Ricotta Polenta, Fava Beans & Tricolored Baby Carrots. She was concerned that the chili would be too spicy. Our waitress, Sara Jean, said that the chocolate will offset the chili heat, and she confirmed with Chef Kevin llenda it would be more on the sweeter side than heat. It was sweet. You couldn't taste the chili heat. The combinations worked very well. 




Whole Calamari

Yellow Curry Seafood Stew

Brian ordered the Yellow Curry Seafood Stew made with Coconut Shrimp Broth, Calamari, Shrimp, Scallop, Blue Crab, Mussel, Tomato, Scallion, Fresno Chili, and Cilantro. What more could I ask for? It has the seafood that I like, and I enjoy a good curry dish (oh, yes, I asked if I could have extra curry).  Everything was done perfectly, and the stew was seasoned very well. I really enjoyed the whole calamari! I never had them this way; they're usually fried and over done. The portion size was spot on with a nice balance of seafood and Coconut Shrimp Broth.   





Trio of House Made Cakes

We then ordered dessert. Jodi ordered the Trio Of House Made Cakes, which included Ginger Carrot Cake, Red Velvet, and Chocolate Fresno. She said they were delicious, but the Chocolate Fresno was a bit of a surprise. It was a good start of chocolat, but then, when you swallow, the spice hits the back of the throat. Her favorite cake was the Ginger Carrot Cake, the touch of ginger and the pineapple really made the flavors pop, but it blended very well together. 






Green Tea Cre'me Brûlée

Brian ordered the Green Tea Cre'me Brûlée,  the caramelization was beautiful, not over burnt, and had a nice crisp when breaking into it. The green tea custard base tasted amazing, the green tea was not overpowering or too strong, but it was smooth and creamy. This dessert was a perfect way to end a great meal and just makes you want more on a nice warm day. 

Another reason we liked Restaurant 301 was that our waitress Sara Jean didn't rush for us to order our next choice. She let us get to where we were about done, then she asked. It was a smooth, flowing experience. Sara Jean would refill our drinks when they were low often and bring out clean plates, and silverware when we got another fresh basket of bread. We also got word that Chef Kevin Ilenda changes his menu with fresh flavors and ingrediants according to the season and local flavors, so keep on eye out on their website for the current menu. 

Restaurant 301 is a must to STOP IN, whether staying at the Sheraton Hotel, shopping in Duluth, or, if you work in downtown Duluth, you can call for a free complimentary ride on your lunch break. When you're done, they will bring you back. If you are looking for a place to bring your loved one, Restaurant 301 is the place to be, from the atmosphere and kind staff to  Chef Kevin llenda, who has passion for Duluth, MN, and his menu. The food reflects all of that. I know we will be back very soon to try the other great menu choices.  

Check out the exciting options at Restaurant 301!