'''Virginia''' is a city in Minnesota.

Understand

Virginia, "The Queen City of the North," is located in St. Louis County on Minnesota's Mesabi Iron Range. Recently, Virginia gained notoriety as the city in which the movie "North Country" was filmed.

Get in

Take I-35 North from Duluth and Minneapolis.

Take 169 South from International Falls.

Get around

See

'''The Loon''' In the summer, Virginia sets a large fiberglass loon (Minnesota's state bird) afloat on Silver Lake, in the middle of town.

'''Mineview in the Sky''' A scenic overlook that features a huge mining truck, a visitor's center and gift shop, and a playground. The Mineview offers a view on the entire city.

Do

  • Land of the Loon. A festival held in Olcott Park the third week of June, the Land of the Loon features a parade, ethnic foods and dancing, and an arts and crafts fair.

    Buy

    Eat

  • La Cocina & Cantina. 07 Chestnut St. 1 218-749-8226. A great, reasonably-priced Mexican restaurant.

  • Natural Harvest Food Cooperative. 05 3rd St N. 1 218-741-4663. ttp://naturalharvest.virginiamn.com. -F 8AM-8PM, Sa 10AM-5PM, Su 10AM-3PM. This popular co-op sells organic, locally-grown and health food.

    Drink

  • Flaimer's Bar. 27 Chestnut St.. 1 218-749-6802.

  • Rainy Lake Saloon & Deli. 07 Chestnut St. 1 218-741-7665.

  • Sawmill Saloon. 478 Mountain Iron Dr. 1 218-741-8681. ttp://sawmill-saloon.com.

    Sleep

  • Coates Plaza Hotel. 02 Chestnut St. 1 218-749-1000. 1 218-749-6934. ttp://www.coatesplazahotel.com/. 60-80.

    Get out