Minnesota is known as the 'Land of 10,000 Lakes' and is located in the country's upper Midwest region. Home styles in the state vary, even between its twin cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul. The colonial style is prevalent in the state's oldest homes, while other styles such as Victorian, Craftsman, split-levels and ranch homes are also popular. New home construction can be found throughout the state, but is mostly concentrated around its major metropolitan areas.
The most populous cities in Minnesota are actually neighbors, appropriately nicknamed the twin cities. Saint Paul is the state's capital and has been dubbed America's most livable city. It is a center for entertainment and government. It is the home of the Minnesota Wild, an acclaimed science center and the state's government offices and facilities. The other half of the twin cities is Minneapolis, which is actually the state's largest city. It has a number of James Beard awarded restaurants and chefs, as well as professional sports teams. It has a thriving arts and culture scene as well. It was voted as being home to the nation's best art district and has more live theaters per capita than anywhere in the US besides New York. Outside of the state's largest metropolitan area sits Duluth, the second largest city on the coast of Lake Superior. It is situated towards the north of the state and is a popular regional tourist destination, with beautiful shopping districts, restored historic architecture and red brick streets.
Minnesota's economy was once heavily reliant on industrial and manufacturing trades. As those have declined, Minnesota has drawn in several key industries to boost its economy. It has a healthy mix of business sectors to create a diverse economy that is well suited for business. In fact, several of the country's top companies have chosen to make Minnesota the home of their headquarters. The Mayo Clinic, the State of Minnesota, and the U.S. Federal Government are the top employers in the state.
