Pamper Yourself at These Day Spas in Rochester, MN
When you’re looking to unwind and pamper yourself, there’s no better place to go than a day spa. Whether you need a massage for those sore muscles or you want to treat yourself to a manicure, you’ll find all the services you need at these top day spas in Rochester, Minnesota. 
Cloud 9 Spa & Salon
Cloud 9 Spa & Salon has two locations in Rochester, which makes it even easier for you to find a spot where you can kick back and relax. The day spa offers customized and affordable massage therapy and acupuncture services. Your massage options include a relaxation massage, sports massage, or hot stone massage. You can get relief from achy feet with a foot massage and reveal rejuvenated skin with the body scrub. Other treatments at the spa include cupping therapy and salt hot moxa bag therapy.
Serenity Couture Salon & Spa
Serenity Couture Salon & Spa is an award-winning day spa that offers the services you need to indulge your body and spirit. In the salon area, you can get your hair cut, colored, textured, and styled. You can also come in for a manicure and pedicure. In the spa area, you can unwind with a massage, facial, or body wrap treatment. For a real treat, choose one of the spa packages. The Day of Rejuvenation is a popular option that includes a 60-minute massage, 60-minute customized facial, pedicure, blowout, and lunch from one of the menus provided by Serenity Couture. Read the rest of this entry »
Discover the 2020 Ford Expedition
The powerful and eye-catching 2020 Ford Expedition is an impressive SUV designed to help you tackle every project. If you’re thinking about getting a new SUV, meet the 2020 Expedition and discover why it has everything you need and more. 
Imposing Good Looks
The 2020 Ford Expedition has bold looks that create an imposing presence on the road. To help increase your visibility and give the SUV an extra dash of style, it comes standard with fog lamps, quad-beam reflector headlights, and incandescent taillights. If you’re looking for even more sharp style, you can also get the available LED fog lamps, LED headlights, and LED taillights. For convenience, the Expedition comes standard with power-adjustable and heated side mirrors with security approach lamps and is available with rain-sensing windshield wipers and a hands-free liftgate.
Outstanding Power
No matter what type of adventure you’re ready to take on, the 2020 Expedition has the power you need. The standard 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine produces 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. If you plan on bringing along extra gear during your travels, you can equip your SUV with the heavy-duty trailer tow package to enjoy an outstanding maximum towing capacity of 9,300 pounds. Plus, if you’re looking to make your drive even more exciting, the Platinum trim level has a stronger 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine that pumps out 400 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque. Read the rest of this entry »
The 2019 Ford Ranger is a fun and sporty pickup truck that packs plenty of great features into one stylish body. If you’re thinking about getting a new midsize truck that has all the features you need to take on every adventure, check out what the 2019 Ranger has to offer.
Stylish Good Looks
The 2019 Ford Ranger showcases tough good looks that let you know this truck is up for any feat. To make your ride more convenient, the truck comes standard with side mirrors with an integrated spotter mirror, automatic headlights, and daytime running lights. The Ranger is also available with power-folding and heated side mirrors with built-in security approach lamps and turn signal indicators, LED lights, and a power-locking tailgate. For a touch of extra style, the truck is also available with chrome exterior finishes.
Impressive Power
Whether you’re hitting an off-road trail or the concrete jungle, the Ford Ranger has the power you need. The truck comes standard with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine that combines with a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission to deliver 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Not only does this engine provide plenty of power, but it also includes auto start/stop technology for excellent efficiency. Plus, to bring along extra gear, the Ranger offers a maximum tow rating of 7,500 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 1,860 pounds.
Best Ways to Spend a Rainy Day in Rochester, MN
Rochester, Minnesota, offers a variety of fun activities to enjoy throughout the year. However, sometimes the weather doesn’t cooperate and you end up with a rainy day. If you’re dealing with some dreary weather in Rochester, check out a few of these top indoor attractions worth exploring.
Apache Mall
If you want to do a little shopping on a rainy day, head to the Apache Mall. This is the largest shopping mall in the city, and it offers something for everyone. You can pick up some new clothes for the entire family at stores like Forever 21, H&M, and The Children’s Place. Then, stop by Country Bathhouse and 5th Grant Boutique to discover items for your home. You’ll also find a great selection of Minnesota-themed products at Love From Minnesota.
Is the 2020 Ford Expedition Right for You?
The Ford Expedition is in a league of its own. With a comfortably spacious interior and ample technology features throughout, it surpasses the competition. Check out a few top features you can expect from the 2020 Ford Expedition.
Modern Exterior
The Ford Expedition is both spacious and stylish. Drivers can choose from two trim options which include Standard or Max, based on sizing needs. With a distinctive grille and colored running boards, the 2020 Expedition is more modern than ever before. The 2020 model comes with five additional exterior color choices with options like the Burgundy Velvet and Rapid Red. Available 22.0-inch platinum wheels complete the overall modern look of the Ford Expedition.
Capable Performance
Whether you are heading into the office or out on a weekend adventure, the 2020 Expedition can manage it all. The Ford Expedition comes equipped with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine with 400 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque. With features like hill start assist and hill descent control, you can easily explore the open road in the Ford Expedition. Bring along your camper or RV with a maximum towing capability of 9,300 pounds.
The integrated trailer brake controller assists you with braking when towing at maximum weight. An available 4X4 off-road package is ideal for more adventurous drivers. Paired with the intelligent four-wheel drive with the terrain management system, you can easily swap between drive modes to better accommodate your road conditions.
Comfortable Interior
The interior of the 2020 Ford Expedition is designed with premium materials, offering you and your passengers a comfortable commute. With a best-in-class legroom rating, each passenger can sit back and enjoy the ride ahead. The panoramic Vista roof gives you a breath of fresh air, even when you’re stuck in traffic. Bring along all your cargo with a maximum of 20.9-cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. Need even more room? Drop down the backseats for a maximum of 121.5-cubic feet of cargo space. With wooden grain accents and leather materials throughout, you might never want to get out of the driver’s seat.
The Sync3 8.0-inch driver infotainment system is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capable, meaning you can manage your phone calls and text messages, without ever taking your focus off the road. With available LGE Wi-Fi and a charging pad, you can keep your devices charged. Listen to your favorite playlists on the available premium Bang & Olufsen audio system.
Upgraded Safety
Equipped with upgraded safety features, you can rest easy knowing that the 2020 Expedition will keep you and your passengers safe on the road. The Ford Co-Pilot 360 package comes standard on the Ford Expedition with features like pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, auto high-beam headlamps, a blind spot information system with cross-traffic alert, and a lane-keeping system. A rearview camera feature also makes it easier than ever to reverse out of busy parking lots.
With a comfortable and accommodating design, the Ford Expedition can easily transition from workday vehicle to weekend-ready SUV. Come by Rochester Ford today to check out the 2020 Ford Expedition in person.
Best Pizza in Rochester, MN
You don’t have to travel to New York or Chicago to enjoy a delicious pizza, it’s right here in Rochester, MN. In fact, any of these top pizza restaurants are sure to satisfy your pizza craving.
Pi Pizza
Pi Pizza offers Rochester locals an authentic, wood-fired pizza option. Their menu is inspired from classic Neapolitan recipes while also adding in a modern twist for an entirely unique flavor. The dining room is welcoming, encouraging guests to enjoy a delicious Italian meal together. Just a few items worth checking out at Pi Pizza are the Esposito sausage and the lasagna with ragu. The oven-roasted breadcrumb crusted cod is also a top choice.
Of course, you could also always stick with the traditional pizza at Pi Pizza and you won’t be disappointed. Try the vegetable pizza or go with a specialty Pi like the white clam which comes with New England Clam, garlic, parsley, and Pecorino Romano. If you’re in a rush, you can also order ahead online and pick up Pi Pizza in store.
North Mr. Pizza
North Mr. Pizza is family-owned-and-operated, which you can tell from the minute you walk into the inviting dining room. The staff is friendly and accommodating and always ready to recommend their favorite dishes, if you can’t decide. North Mr. Pizza offers a long list of specialty pizzas or you can create your own.
Begin with your crust with options like double dough and New York style and then choose your sauce and toppings. You can choose just one topping or fill your pizza with your favorite ingredients like bacon, salami, pineapple, and black olives. In addition to pizza, North Mr. Pizza also receives a lot of exceptional reviews for its pasta, salads, and mouthwatering desserts.
Forager Brewery
You might not initially consider a brewery when in search of the best pizza, but the Forager Brewery just might surprise you. Forager Brewery has a dining experience that is locally sourced and fresh. The scratch kitchen creates items like the spicy soba noodles and the Cuban burger.
They also have a long list of wood-fired pizzas like the Margherita and the stoned love. The vegan delight is a good choice for those who require a vegan menu. You can also build your own pizza which comes with your choice of sauce and up to four of your favorite toppings.
Pasquale’s Neighborhood Pizzeria
For authentic-tasting New York pizza, try Pasquale’s Neighborhood Pizzeria. The owner implements his favorite New York recipes from his childhood into the menu at Pasquales. Try one of the calzones like the ricotta or the Della mamma. Popular pizza items on the menu include the la Fresca or the Sicilian thick crust. Pair your favorite pizza with one of the cold drinks on the drink menu. When the weather is nice, you can grab a pizza and enjoy it on the relaxing outdoor patio with friends.
Whether you prefer your pizza with traditional toppings like pepperoni and ham or you want to try something different, any of these local restaurants are a great option. Grab a few friends and try out the best pizza restaurants in the Rochester area.
The 2020 Ford F-250 Can’t Be Beaten
An update to the already impressive Ford F-250 is finally here. The 2020 F-250 is more technologically equipped and accommodating than ever before. Check out a few of the top features you can expect on this durable and accommodating truck.
Durable Exterior
The F-250 will easily accommodate your busiest of workdays with its durable exterior design. The durability begins with the high-strength exterior design that is made with aluminum alloy and steel materials. An upgraded grille adds a modern look to the F-250 and the LED head and tail lights improve both the design and visibility. The 2020 F-250 also comes with brand-new wheel options, designed to give you more traction on more difficult terrain. Drivers who prefer to explore the open road will enjoy the available Tremor Off-Road trim.
Capable Power
The 2020 F-250 is not only durable, but it’s also capable. Drivers can choose from an available three engines. Standard is a 6.2-liter V-8 engine and an upgraded turbocharged 7.3-liter V-8 engine with 430 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque is also available. A 6.7-liter turbo diesel engine is newly available for the 2020 year.
Equipped with maximum power, drivers can easily meet their towing needs with a towing capability of 37,000 pounds. Each engine is paired with a 10-speed TorqShift with SelectShift transmission. Drivers can swap between five drive modes for better traction which include normal, eco, tow/haul, slippery, and deep sand/snow.
Connected Interior
With the upgraded technologies found in the interior of the Ford F-250, you can easily stay connected when on the road. A 4G LTE W-Fi is available for up to 10 devices and is standard on all 2020 trim levels. An available wireless charging pad keeps all your technological devices charged when on the road. The Ford Telematics fleet management system allows you to keep an eye on your drivers.
In addition to an interior that is well-connected, you will also enjoy a comfortable ride in the Ford F-250. With available leather and suede materials, the 2020 F-250 offers you the comfort and support that you deserve. The interior is spacious, giving you ample room for both passengers and all your cargo.
Reliable Safety
Push safety to the back of your mind and focus on the workday ahead with the advanced safety features in the 2020 F-250. Available safety features include pre-collision assist with automatic braking, trailer reverse guidance, blind spot with cross-traffic alert with trailer coverage, and a pro-trailer backup assist feature.
Reversing is a breeze in the 2020 F-250 as you can easily activate the pro trailer backup assist feature with the turn of a knob. An available 360-degree camera system allows drivers to view the area directly surrounding their Ford F-250. Adaptive cruise control is available on some trim levels.
If you’re looking for a truck that can keep up with your busiest of workdays, then you will definitely want to check out the Ford F-250. Equipped with both accommodating interior and exterior features, this truck is one of the most impressive trucks on the road. Come by Rochester Ford today to check out the 2020 Ford F-250.
Get Fit in Rochester
Those who like to stay fit, or have made a decision to hone a more active lifestyle, have no shortage of options when it comes to ways of doing so in Rochester. The city is home to many gyms, sport clubs, and fitness studios that feature a variety of exercises and sports. Here are three places that offer different ways to stay in shape.
Fitness Evolution
Fitness Evolution is a state-of-the-art gym that boasts the latest equipment, professional trainers, and convenient amenities at affordable rates. In addition, you also don’t need to enter into a long-term contract to join this gym, which is convenient if you’re not sure about joining. However, considering all that this gym has to offer, you’ll probably remain a client for a prolonged period of time.
Convenient amenities at Fitness Evolution include a Kids club with supervised care, a sauna, and tanning booths that you can use as often as you want. The gym also offers many different fitness classes, such as zamba, cycling, hatha yoga, and bootcamp classes. As a member, you can also make use of the gym’s online nutrition and fitness programs to assist you in reaching your personal health goals.
Pure Barre
This facility offers four different classes that are based on the Pure Barre technique, which involves toning and strengthening specific muscle groups, such as the arms, thighs, and abs, through a series a small and controlled movements. As is the case with yoga, Pure Barre strengthens lean muscle by employing a person’s own body weight as opposed to the use of external weights, which radically reduces the occurrence of both short and long-term injury to the body.
The four group class formats include the Pure Foundations class, which is a 50-minute introductory class; the original barre class, called Pure Barre Classic, which is a 50-minute class that offers an effective and full-body workout; the Pure Empower class, which is a 45-minute high-intensity workout; and the Pure Reform that involves resistance-based training.
Rochester Athletic Club
If you prefer staying fit by playing sports, Rochester Athletic Club is a good fit. This fitness club features a wide range of sports facilities, including racquetball, squash, and badminton courts, as well as an outdoor sand volleyball court. Members also have access to three pools — a family pool, a lap pool, and a family whirlpool — that all use a salt purification system. For those who are into tennis, the club offers league competitions and lessons, or you can just book a court for a friendly game.
The club also features the Neighborhood, which is a family activity center and gym that boasts an 18-hole miniature golf course, two golf cages, an indoor soccer court, as well as baseball and hockey areas at the back of the center. Parents who visit the gym can leave their children in the play area of the Neighborhood where they can play on the equipment under strict supervision.
Whether you like staying fit by attending fitness classes, playing sport, swimming, or working out in the gym, Rochester has a facility that caters to your needs and tastes.
Ford has done it again, creating a stylish, comfortable crossover SUV you’ll love driving. With four trim levels to choose from — the S, SE, Titanium, and SES — you’ll find the EcoSport that fits your lifestyle. Each model comes standard with front-wheel-drive or available in four-wheel-drive.
Ford has also packed the EcoSport full of technology enhancements and performance features. Here’s a look at some of the best features you’ll find on the 2019 EcoSport.
Performance
The EcoSport is equipped with the standard 1.0-liter turbocharged, direct-injection EcoBoost engine. Paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, this engine puts out 123 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque. With this car’s massive power, you get to go anywhere you want. This car also gets 27/29/28 city/highway/combined MPG ratings, so you won’t spend a lot of money getting to your destination.
You can also opt for the 2.0-liter Ti-VCT (GDI) engine with Intelligent four-wheel-drive. This engine produces 166 horsepower and 149 lb-ft of torque, with 23/29/25 city/highway/combined MPG ratings.
Style
This Ford masterpiece offers a variety of stylish features to choose from. Standard on all EcoSport models (except the S trim) is a power moon roof with a sunshade that will let you enjoy the fresh air and sunlight as you cruise to your destination. On top of that, the unique swing-out rear gate gives you access to the rear cargo space.
Also standard on all but the S model is an LED signature lighting package including halogen projector headlamps. With this, you’ll be able to see and be seen wherever you go.
Every model, other than the S, comes with the standard heated leather-trimmed front bucket seats. You’ll enjoy your rides in these comfortable yet elegant seats.
Technology
The EcoSport offers a selection of standard and optional technology features. You can stay connected to your smartphone through Ford SYNC 3 with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, which can be accessed through the 8-inch colored LED touchscreen.
The available FordPass Connect technology allows you to use your smartphone to lock, unlock, or start your vehicle remotely. Get the 4G LTE WiFi hotspot and turn every destination into a remote office or stream movies to keep the kids entertained.
Do it all hands-free with Ford+Alexa voice activation. Just ask Alexa to access directions, play a song, make a call, or send a text. It’s that easy.
Ford’s Intelligent Access allows you to keep your key fob in your pocket while still unlocking doors or starting your vehicle.
The EcoSport is also equipped with MyKey technology, a unique service that helps promote good driving habits with children. You simply program your key to specific settings for mandatory seatbelt use, maximum driving speeds, and even volume levels on the sound system.
SiriusXM Satellite Radio comes free for six months on all new EcoSports. You’ll have access to over 150 radio stations including commercial-free radio, sports, news, and entertainment programming. Upgrade to a 5-year subscription to get SiriusXM Travel and Travel Link and get detailed traffic reports, weather forecasts, and news wherever you go.
There’s a lot to like about the 2019 Ford EcoSport. Come test drive one today and see what features you like the best.
Sit and Chill at These Coffee Shops in Rochester, MN
Coffee is one of the most popular beverages on the planet, as it’s enjoyed morning, noon, and night by millions. People go and have a cup of coffee. Sometimes they bring their laptop to get some work done or meet friends and catch up over coffee. Coffee shops are even used for first dates.
That said, it is surprising how hard it can be to find a good coffee shop. Here are three of the best coffee shops to sit and chill in Rochester, Minnesota.
Cafe Steam
This one-of-a-kind coffee shop can actually be found in four Rochester locations. With two locations on South Broadway, another on 2nd Street SW, and a fourth on 4th Street SW, there is a Cafe Steam easily accessible to everyone.
Cafe Steam takes coffee brewing to the next level. Highly trained baristas work with the finest ingredients to create an almost magical experience. They have the traditional coffee, espresso, cappuccino, and latte on the menu. Their baristas also brew interesting espresso-based drinks like their Flat White, Pour Over, and Chemex.
The cafe has ten different teas they brew to order, from White Peony to Imperial Dark, and everything in between (like Golden Turtle and Valley Peak). Coffees, teas, lattes, and more can be served hot or over ice.
For a truly exceptional flavor experience, try one of their signature drinks like the Shakerato, which is three shots of espresso mixed with Turbinado sugar, then poured over a rocks glass. Taste the orient in their Spiced Thai Coffee: a combination of espresso, drip coffee, and sweetened condensed milk flavored with cinnamon, cardamom, and clove.
Bravo Espresso
This family-owned coffee shop has been pleasing patrons in Rochester for 28 years. You’ll find them on South Broadway downtown, in the Shops at University Square, serving up all your favorite coffees, teas, cappuccinos, and espressos.
Take a break from shopping and relax over a delicious, fresh-brewed beverage that is sure to get you back browsing the shops in no time.
Lumen Coffee
Lumen Coffee is a classic coffee shop with two locations in Rochester — 55th Street NW and South Broadway. Traditional drip coffee and freshly brewed teas are served up with delicious, locally made pastries and sandwiches.
This coffee shop also offers adventurous options like Miel, Mocha Bianca, and Americano Bianco. Lumen Coffee also provides you with an exciting “Specialty” tea menu that includes London Fog, Lavender Floral Fog, and a White Raspberry Chai tea, among others.
There, you will be presented with a variety of milkshakes and frappes, such as regular strawberry and a Matcha Frappe. With over twenty flavored syrups to choose from, you can jazz up your coffee, tea, or latte your way.
At Lumen Coffee, you can choose from the “Specialty” latte menu featuring flavors like Fluffernutter, Almond Butter, Honey Lavender, and more. Machiatto, espresso, and cappuccino are all served up hot and brewed to order.
With so many choices for coffee, it’s good to know where to go for a good cup. Next time you crave a decent coffee and want to chill out, visit one of these three venues. Your taste buds will thank you.
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