Things to Do in Robbinsdale

Dappled light from an overhanging crystal chandelier catches the glittering fibers of yarn skeins arranged in displays, on tables, and covering the towering walls of StevenBe's high-ceilinged atrium. Store proprietor Steven Berg continues to redefine the traditional knitting methods he first learned as a child, infusing patterns with creative twists, nontraditional materials, and enough sparkle to rival a Swarovski Lite Brite. In an interview with Patch.com Berg stated, "We want the knitting experience to be] fun and playful, lighthearted—we want this to be a happy place where—whatever troubles you might have at home—you can leave them behind." StevenBe's eye-catching displays of chunky yarns, wools, cottons, and novelty materials wrap visiting knitters in a fibrous embrace faster than a lonely box of Wheaties, and paintings from local artists adorn the walls. Animal-print armchairs support a growing circle of crafters during special events and sun-soaked afternoons that may feature refreshments or live musicians' buzzing instruments above the gentle clicking of knitting needles.

Rainbow Play Systems’s expansive showrooms introduce kids aged 2 to 10 to a wonderland of gym equipment, all of which is available for purchase. A multitude of swing sets with spiral slides, trapeze rings, and tire swings exercise tykes while preparing them for the physics portion of the SAT.

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.

Owner and stained-glass enthusiast Judy assembles custom pieces for cabinets, doors, and windows, as well as hanging decorations including address signs, reproductions of drawings, and flower mosaics. In her introductory classes, students create easy-to-follow designs, such as a three-dimensional Moravian star. Judy teaches pupils the basics, from cutting and soldering glass to comforting elderly glass with stories of a promised afterlife as beach sand.

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.