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Minnesota Features presented by
Steve Ganz & Miria Ganz-Thompson
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The Great Lakes Aquarium
Duluth, MN
Photos and story
©2/2/1 by Chas. Campbell
If you haven't been up to Duluth yet to see the new Great Lakes Aquarium, it's a trip that easily provides a day "away" from the typical Minnesota February freeze-outs. It's also a great addition to your next skiing trip to Lutsen. The aquarium is located right next to the convention center for easy access and parking, and offers great views of the lift bridge and harbor.
Besides the typical exhibits, you'll find an emphasis on art within the building. From the lifelike dioramas produced in the exhibits, to the architecture itself, the Great Lakes Aquarium expresses its message on many levels. As you enter, you are confronted with a 24' wall of glass with a thin film of water rippling along its entire surface. Symbols and words for "water" are etched in patterns on the glass.
The aquarium has something for everyone: from kids working on nature, science, and conservation projects, to anglers looking for ideas to use against the competition. There are 5 Centerpiece exhibits and many others with hands-on features.
"Isle Royal" is the central tank containing the deep water species from the lakes. "The Baptism River" exhibit (photo right) exemplifies the area's fast-moving water. "Otter Cove" has a family of live otters for the show, plus it teaches the relationship between larger animals and the water. "The St. Louis River" exhibit is geared toward the angler and features most of the game fish and their habitats.
You actually enter "Chequamegon Bay's" netted aviary to experience a shoreline environment, complete with many species of live birds sharing the exhibit with you.
So, if you are suffering from Cabin Fever or want to add a
cultural element to your next skiing or casino outing, why not try the Great
Lakes Aquarium? The more you look at Minnesota, there's more to like!
Map & Directions
This Minnesota Feature has been brought to you by...
Steve Ganz
Miria Ganz-Thompson
Edina Realty
4425 Hwy 169 N
Plymouth, MN 55442
763-559-2894
http://www.steveganz.com