Things to Do in New Brighton

Since purchasing a used limo in 1993, Leland “Lee” Casto has transported clientele on trips and tours throughout the Twin Cities. These days, however, his fleet has evolved to include stretch limos that fit 6–22 passengers. Guests can sip refreshments from tumblers and champagne flutes as Lee whisks them off on all types of journeys, from bar-hopping excursions to airport-bound jaunts. He also accommodates patrons on several tours, which include winery visits, two gangster-themed expeditions, and a guided trek past ghost-filled mansions and werewolf-proof moon observatories.

Helmed by founder Lawrence Yatch—a retired Navy SEAL who once led his platoon in securing one of the world's largest oil platforms—the instructors of Sealed Mindset Firearms Studio oversee a facility where every room upholds a training philosophy emphasizing knowledge, practice, and experience. The shooting range, for example, trains marksmen by simulating the conditions in which a defensive encounter is most likely to occur. Depending on shooters' ability levels, the range offers scenarios from simulated night to defending against multiple targets in up to a 270-degree shooting view. Other training rooms include a live-simulation room that re-creates encounters such as carjackings, a self-defense and fitness room, and a laser and dry-fire room.

Instructors use these training rooms to lead classes that range from firearms and fitness training for everyday citizens to specialized training for law enforcement and the military. Additionally, they also organize recreational immersion experiences such as Operation Geronimo, a simulated Navy SEAL mission complete with real combat gear, simulated fire, live role players, and a celebratory steak dinner with the president. Sealed Mindset also houses a children's playroom and a members' lounge.

An acronym for "Ridiculously Awesome Visual Expedition," Run to Rave combines the healthiness of a 5K with the party energy of a rave. DJs blasting electronic music energize the event, inspiring participants to power through 3.1 miles of light shows while donning complimentary glow kits. Across the finish line, electronic dance music thrums even louder in Glow Village, where runners become serious dancers. Proceeds from the event benefit Run It Forward, which helps endurance athletes raise money for inner-city children.

Each year for the past 24 years, crowds have gathered near the banks of Lake Calhoun at St. Mary's Greek Orthodox Church to celebrate the proud culinary and cultural traditions of Greece. From the civilization that gifted the Western world with democracy, classical architecture, and the toga party comes an appetizing spread of imported wines, lamb pilafs, gyros, and grilled-chicken souvlaki. After hitting up the food tent, visitors marvel at costumed performers whirling through the lively steps of traditional Hellenistic dance. Chefs and olive growers demonstrate how to cook with phyllo or select the perfect oil. As they peruse the wares of the marketplace or move to the melody of Greek folk music, festival-goers can relish the warm fuzzy feelings they get from being charitable, since Taste of Greece helps raise funds for organizations including the Joyce Uptown Food Shelf and C.A.D.E.

Your Boat Club helps people enjoy the benefits of boat ownership without hassles such as towing, cleaning, and repairs. The club maintains a fleet of more than 70 boats, including leisurely pontoons, fishing boats up to 18 feet long, and runabouts with powerful engines that contain up to 300 tiny horses. Members need only make online reservations for one of these vessels, arrive at their dock of choice, and speed away with a fully fueled and clean boat. Seven different lakes set the stage for these aquatic excursions, giving members—based on the membership level they choose—many boating options. On any given day, Your Boat Club's vessels tow water skis across White Bear Lake and ferry anglers into Lake Minnetonka, where largemouth bass, bluegill, and goldfish crackers swim through 14,528 acres of water.

Twin Cities VIP helps to create memorable nights on the town by staging visits to some of the city's exclusive clubs. Groups may either walk to and from locations, or snag a ride and a drink in one of the fully stocked luxury limousines while a host or hostess tags along to keep spirits high. Not only do club-crawl fees include all applicable cover charges, but they also allow parties to officially jump over any lines without riding the coattails of pogo-sticking celebrities. From there, partygoers are free to lose themselves in the music and flowing cocktails until it's time to depart and head to the next club on the list.