Brick and Bourbon: Creative cocktails and foodie-pleasing plates

A new addition to Maple Grove’s dining scene, Brick and Bourbon focuses on fresh ingredients, vintage liquors and creative craft cocktails. As self-proclaimed foodies, the founders have created a menu of inventive entrees like roasted short rib ravioli and macadamia-crusted halibut. And, as the name suggests, the restaurant’s bar is staffed with knowledgeable bourboneers to assist you in finding your ideal pour. They also specialize in cocktail innovations like the “I Can’t Believe It’s Not Bloody” clear Bloody Mary or “The Magic Cricket,” a blend of vodka, cocoa and local mint ice cream.

The Lookout Bar and Grill: Maple Grove’s biggest backyard

The family-owned Lookout Bar and Grill has a long history in Maple Grove—they set up shop in 1958, pairing beer and cigarettes with “7 and a half nights of live country music” on the family farm. The bar opened its kitchen in 1968, and today, it’s still is one of the liveliest venues in the area and a local favorite. It’s home to the biggest restaurant patio in the city, a four-season porch, a fire pit, volleyball courts and even palm trees. The Lookout regularly hosts community events and, true to its roots, features live bands multiple nights per week.

One of the Twin Cities’ largest shopping centers, the Arbor Lakes shopping complex is home to more than 150 retailers, from familiar brands to unique local boutiques. Made up of three districts—The Shoppes, Main Street and The Fountains—the center rivals the Mall of America for retail variety. Even if shopping isn’t on your trip itinerary, the outdoor pavilion is stroll-worthy—walkways are lined with seating areas, water fountains and fire pits and the complex plays host to a variety of community events and arts festivals. Plus, there’s no shortage of foodie-friendly dining options.

Elm Creek Park Reserve: Keep calm and hike (or paddle, or snowshoe) on

At 4,900-acres, Elm Creek Park Reserve (just across from the Cambria hotel) is the largest park in the Three Rivers district. Get a guided look at the area’s wildlife at the newly constructed Eastman Nature Center, or venture out to see swans, bluebirds, beavers and deer along the park’s miles of creek-side hiking and biking trails. The park rents out equipment for activities like stand-up paddle boarding, archery, biking and bocce ball—and if you’re visiting in the winter, you can get gear for tubing, snowshoeing or snowboarding.

Rush Creek Golf Club: Painting the farmlands green

Visit the Arbor Lakes shopping complex to browse more than 150 retailers, from familiar brands to unique local boutiques. Photo courtesy of The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes.