Get Out ... and Explore the Mendota Heights Area July 7-10

1.) Illuminated Text

When/Where: 2-4 p.m. Thursday, July 7/Wentworth Library, 199 East Wentworth Ave, West St. Paul

Why Go: Learn ornate design and lettering techniques developed during the Middle Ages, courtesy of the Eagan Art House.

Pricing: Free, registration required

2.)

When/Where: 5-11 p.m. Friday, July 8; noon-11 p.m. Saturday, July 9/, Sibley Memorial Highway

Why Go: The music and beer garden begins Friday night. Saturday, the annual parade has a few special highlights in-store, and a new addition to the lineup, Hard Days Night Beatles Cover Band is sure to be a crowd-pleaser on Saturday night.

Pricing: Free admission, no cover

3.) Woolly Bears

When/Where: 10-11:30 a.m., Saturday, July 9/Dodge Nature Center, 365 West Marie Avenue, West St. Paul

Why Go: Parents and preschoolers age 3-5 can bond over nature-themed lessons and activities. This Saturday’s lesson is all about “Dragons and Damsels.” (Think dragonflies!)

Pricing: Members $12, public $14. Registration is required.

4.) Minnesota Sea Life Aquarium

When/Where: Weekend hours are Friday, 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Saturday, 8:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sunday, 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m./Mall of America

Why Go: It’s hot out there! Time to head under the sea for a relaxing reprieve. Bonus: State workers who provide a copy of their layoff notice get in free, and their family members receive a half-off discount.

Pricing: $12.99-22.99 Prices vary based on day and time, child or adult. Discounts available for early bird and evening hours. Buy online for additional discounts.

5.) Dakota Valley Summer Pops Orchestra

When/Where: 6:30 p.m., Sunday, July 10/ Caponi Art Park outdoor amphitheater

Why Go: Enjoy a celestial-themed program of music drawing from classical artchives as well as pop culture.

Pricing: Free, a donation of $4 is suggested.