A Memorable Journey with My Wife to Visit Our Son in Minneapolis:
(Sorry for this belated post)
In April 2009, my wife and I embarked on one of the most memorable journeys of our lives—a trip to the United States to visit our son, who was working and living in Minneapolis. It was our first long visit to America, and for nearly a month we experienced the warmth of family life, explored beautiful cities, admired architectural marvels, and created memories that we cherish even today.
Journey to America
On 25 April 2009, we departed from Chennai by Emirates with a layover in Dubai and reached John F. Kennedy International Airport, New York. The next day, we boarded a Delta Airlines flight to Minneapolis. Our son warmly received us at the airport and drove us to his apartment. After resting for a couple of days and adjusting to the weather and time difference, we eagerly began our sightseeing adventures.
1. Mall of America – 29 April 2009
St.Paul Science Museum of Minnesota – 1 May 2009
Located about 10 miles (16 km) from Minneapolis, the Science Museum offered interactive exhibits on science, dinosaurs, space exploration, and human biology. We especially enjoyed watching an educational movie in the museum's giant-screen theatre, which was an immersive experience.
A beautiful 53-foot waterfall, Minnehaha Falls is located only about 5 miles (8 km) from downtown Minneapolis. The sound of cascading water, lush greenery, and walking trails created a serene atmosphere that made this one of our favourite spots.
4. Stillwater – 3 May 2009
Stillwater is a charming historic town situated about 25 miles (40 km) east of Minneapolis on the banks of the St. Croix River. We admired its quaint streets, old buildings, and scenic river views. The peaceful atmosphere made our visit especially enjoyable.
We also enjoyed to watch the lifting of Still water Bridge to allow a ship to cross the river. The Stillwater Bridge (alternatively known as the Stillwater Lift Bridge, St. Croix River Bridge at Stillwater) is a vertical-lift bridge crossing the St. Croix River between Stillwater, Minnesota, and Houlton, Wisconsin, United States. Around 18,000 vehicles crossed the bridge daily.
5. Minneapolis Sculpture Garden and Cathedral of Saint Paul – 7 May 2009
The Sculpture Garden, about 2 miles (3 km) from downtown Minneapolis, is famous for its iconic "Spoonbridge and Cherry" sculpture. Later, we visited the majestic Cathedral of Saint Paul, around 10 miles (16 km) away, admired for its grand dome and beautiful architecture.
Visit to Chicago – 10 to 15 May 2009
Willis Tower (Sears Tower)
On 12 May 2009, we visited the iconic Sears Tower, now called Willis Tower. From the Skydeck on the 103rd floor, we enjoyed breathtaking panoramic views of Chicago and the surrounding region.
Other memorable places in Chicago
- Navy Pier
Navy Pier is one of Chicago's most popular tourist attractions, stretching along the shores of the beautiful Lake Michigan. We enjoyed a leisurely walk along the waterfront, admired the panoramic views of the lake and the Chicago skyline, and soaked in the lively atmosphere filled with restaurants, shops, and entertainment. The cool breeze from the lake and the vibrant surroundings made our visit especially memorable.
- Shakespeare Theater:Located on Navy Pier, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater is an internationally acclaimed cultural institution dedicated to the works of William Shakespeare and other classic and contemporary plays. Even the exterior of the theatre and its location by the lake exuded elegance and artistic charm, making it an important cultural landmark of Chicago.
- Baháʼà House of Worship
The Baháʼà House of Worship, situated in the suburb of Wilmette, is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places we visited. Its striking white dome, adorned with intricate lace-like carvings, stands majestically amidst beautifully landscaped gardens and fountains. The serene atmosphere of the temple invites visitors of all faiths to pray, meditate, and reflect in peace and harmony.
- Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple (Balaji Temple)
Popularly known as the Balaji Temple, this sacred shrine is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, the presiding deity of Tirumala in India. The temple architecture closely resembles that of traditional South Indian temples, complete with beautifully sculpted gopurams and sanctums. Visiting the temple gave us a feeling of being back in India and filled us with devotion and spiritual happiness.
- Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago
Situated in the peaceful suburb of Lemont, this is one of the oldest and most prominent Hindu temples in the Midwestern United States. The temple houses shrines dedicated to various Hindu deities and serves as a vibrant centre for religious and cultural activities. The beautifully carved structures and tranquil surroundings created a deeply spiritual experience for us.
- BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
This magnificent temple is an architectural masterpiece built entirely of intricately carved Italian marble and Turkish limestone. Every pillar, dome, and arch is adorned with exquisite carvings showcasing ancient Indian craftsmanship. As we walked through the temple premises, we were amazed by its grandeur, artistic beauty, and the serene atmosphere that inspired devotion and inner peace.
After spending five enjoyable days in Chicago, we returned to Minneapolis on 15 May 2009.
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum – 16 May 2009
Located about 25 miles (40 km) southwest of Minneapolis, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is a paradise for nature lovers spread over more than 1,000 acres of beautifully maintained gardens, woodlands, and scenic trails. During our visit in spring, colourful flowers were in bloom, and the fresh greenery all around created a peaceful and refreshing atmosphere. We enjoyed leisurely walks through the gardens, admired the variety of plants and flowering trees, and spent some quiet moments amidst nature. The Arboretum offered a perfect escape from the busy city life and left us with pleasant memories of its natural beauty.
Cultural Experiences in Minneapolis
During the remaining days, we enjoyed meeting our son's friends and attending cultural events. We watched the world-famous The Phantom of the Opera and also attended a captivating symphony performance at Orchestra Hall. Orchestra Hall, one of Minnesota’s cultural and architectural touchstones, opened in 1974 as the home of the Minnesota Orchestra, and has since drawn upwards of 10 million people to its concerts. Designed by architect Hugh Hardy, the venue is known for its modernist design. These experiences added a rich cultural dimension to our trip.
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New York City – 21 to 24 May 2009
Times Square
The dazzling lights, giant electronic billboards, and bustling crowds of Times Square created an unforgettable atmosphere. It truly felt like the crossroads of the world. As we walked through the brightly illuminated streets, we were amazed by the energy and excitement that surrounded us. People from different countries, street performers entertaining visitors, and the towering buildings covered with colourful advertisements made the place vibrant and lively. Even late into the night, Times Square was buzzing with activity, making it one of the most exciting places we visited during our trip.
The dazzling lights, giant electronic billboards, and bustling crowds of Times Square created an unforgettable atmosphere. It truly felt like the crossroads of the world. As we walked through the brightly illuminated streets, we were amazed by the energy and excitement that surrounded us. People from different countries, street performers entertaining visitors, and the towering buildings covered with colourful advertisements made the place vibrant and lively. Even late into the night, Times Square was buzzing with activity, making it one of the most exciting places we visited during our trip.
United Nations Headquarters
We visited the headquarters of the United Nations, a symbol of international cooperation and peace. Situated along the East River, the impressive complex houses the General Assembly Hall, conference rooms, and offices representing countries from around the world. Walking through the premises, we felt inspired by the ideals of peace, friendship, and mutual understanding among nations. Seeing the rows of flags of member countries fluttering in the breeze was a memorable sight and reminded us of the importance of global unity and cooperation.
We visited the headquarters of the United Nations, a symbol of international cooperation and peace. Situated along the East River, the impressive complex houses the General Assembly Hall, conference rooms, and offices representing countries from around the world. Walking through the premises, we felt inspired by the ideals of peace, friendship, and mutual understanding among nations. Seeing the rows of flags of member countries fluttering in the breeze was a memorable sight and reminded us of the importance of global unity and cooperation.
Rockefeller Center
From the observation deck, we enjoyed spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline, including the iconic skyscrapers of New York. The panoramic view stretching across the city, with its countless buildings, bridges, and the distant rivers, was truly breathtaking. Rockefeller Center itself is a historic and vibrant complex known for its elegant architecture, art installations, and cultural significance. Standing high above the city and admiring the magnificent skyline was one of the highlights of our visit to New York and a memory we continue to cherish.
September 11 attacks Memorial Site
We also visited the site of the former World Trade Center, where reconstruction was underway. The visit was moving and reminded us of the resilience and spirit of the American people.
From the observation deck, we enjoyed spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline, including the iconic skyscrapers of New York. The panoramic view stretching across the city, with its countless buildings, bridges, and the distant rivers, was truly breathtaking. Rockefeller Center itself is a historic and vibrant complex known for its elegant architecture, art installations, and cultural significance. Standing high above the city and admiring the magnificent skyline was one of the highlights of our visit to New York and a memory we continue to cherish.
September 11 attacks Memorial Site
We also visited the site of the former World Trade Center, where reconstruction was underway. The visit was moving and reminded us of the resilience and spirit of the American people.
Visit to New Jersey
On 23 May 2009, we travelled by train from New York City to New Jersey to visit my cousin. The journey was comfortable, convenient, and offered a different perspective of American urban life. As the train departed from the bustling streets and towering skyscrapers of Manhattan, the scenery gradually changed to residential neighbourhoods, commercial areas, and green open spaces. We enjoyed watching the orderly railway system, the clean stations, and the beautiful views along the route.
Travelling by train in the United States was an interesting experience for us, as it was efficient and well-organized. The journey was smooth and relaxing, allowing us to admire the changing landscapes and observe the everyday life of people commuting between the two states. Upon arriving in New Jersey, we were warmly welcomed by our cousin and spent a pleasant evening reminiscing about family memories and sharing our experiences in America.
We spent a pleasant evening and stayed overnight before returning to New York the next day.
Journey Back Home
On 24 May 2009, we boarded our Emirates flight from New York to Dubai and then continued our journey to Chennai, arriving on 25 May 2009.
Conclusion
Our 2009 trip to the United States was much more than a holiday. It was a wonderful opportunity to spend precious time with our son, explore famous landmarks, experience American culture, and strengthen family bonds. The memories of Minneapolis, Chicago, and New York—the waterfalls, museums, theatres, temples, and dazzling city skylines—remain fresh in our minds even after many years.
It was truly a journey of joy, discovery, and cherished family moments.
