If you think you’re Minnesota’s biggest fan, think again. Jess Heuer, known to her followers as The Minnesota Gal, loves to travel, has a huge heart for local businesses, and hasn’t been on an airplane in a decade — she’s been busy showing off everything Minnesota has to offer instead, so you do the math. She’s a local travel influencer whose energy and passion come through in all of her interactions and content, inspiring others to explore the hometown favorites and hidden gems that make Minnesota one-of-a-kind.
What sparked your journey as a Minnesota travel influencer, and what inspired you to start sharing your adventures online?
I began by sharing my deep love of the North Shore. I wondered if there were other people out there who shared the same sentiment. The biggest thing I saw missing in the Minnesota travel industry was how to find affordability and fun. I’m a person who looks for the best value while traveling, and there wasn’t a lot of information out there like that. That quickly expanded to sharing my love for the whole state.
What do you enjoy most about exploring Minnesota and highlighting local communities?
In general, my favorite thing is the people I meet along the way, but the best thing about highlighting local communities is bringing customers through businesses’ doors because they saw them featured on my page. It warms my heart to help businesses, especially small Minnesota-owned ones.
What are your favorite places in Waconia to visit, eat, shop, or unwind?
My favorite thing about Waconia is that even though it’s expanding, it still has the small-town charm. It’s great having the lake nearby, because I love water sports, especially paddleboarding and wake surfing. My favorite place to eat is on the deck at Lola‘s Lakehouse with the view of the water. Their Brussels sprouts are the best. I like to shop at The Stash when I am feeling a bit fancier for my travels and Shape It Up Fitness and Athleisure Boutique for comfy on-the-go wear and for my workouts. Two other standout spots for me are Lakehouse Candle Co. and Lakeside Loft.
When you’re creating content, what makes a destination or experience stand out to you?
I like to find things that aren’t the everyday norm. I’m passionate about finding hidden gems and lesser-known places that I can share with others.
What’s one Minnesota adventure or experience you think everyone should try at least once?
Everyone needs to do a sunrise paddleboard tour in Duluth with Zenith Adventure. I promise it’s worth the early alarm. You paddle under the lift bridge at sunrise. It’s an incredible experience and so beautiful.
What has been the most rewarding part of building your platform and connecting with your audience?
Hands-down, the people I’ve met, some of whom have become great friends. So much can happen when you find like-minded people and put them together. I’m also so thankful for the experiences that my family and I get to have, creating lifelong memories.
Can you share a little bit about what followers can expect with your Summer Giveaway?
You’ll be entered to win a 2-night stay at Stay Dreamy Waconia vacation home rental, a house in the heart of downtown Waconia. It boasts 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, a beautiful front porch, and a sauna.
Follow Waconia City Lifestyle @waconiacitylifestyle and The Minnesota Gal @the_minnesota_gal so you don’t miss more details on how to enter to win the Summer Giveaway coming up soon!
Be sure to also contact Jess at theminnesotagal.com or on her Instagram to feature your Minnesota business. She loves to help more businesses get exposure!
The biggest thing I saw missing in the Minnesota travel industry was how to find affordability and fun.