Wander Minnesota: A Glimpse Of Spring

Spring has been taking its own sweet time arriving in Minnesota this year, much to the consternation of just about everyone. But there is a place you can visit to get a taste of what spring might eventually be like: the Spring Flower Show at the Como Park Conservatory.

The Sunken Garden is host to this annual extravaganza of perennial blooms. It's definitely a wonderful retreat from the snow that's been piling up this week.

Soak in the bright colors of the beautiful tulips and hyacinths, and you'll feel much more kindly toward current conditions.

How can you possibly resist the gorgeous snapdragons?

Note that the display changes periodically, as some blooms fade and others just begin. Throughout the display there are bulbs that have not quite fully arrived, as in this group of Asiatic lilies.

You might be lucky enough to find some of the "recycled" bulbs for sale at the gift shop.

Who wouldn't want to take home bulbs that produce these beautiful calla and Asiatic lilies?

Or these vivid tulips and pansies:

Or these gentle freesia:

The Spring Flower Show will be on display through April 28, followed by the Summer Flower Show. But you know you need some spring now. Bonus: the brand-new Bonsai Collection is now open at the Conservatory as well.

What else is happening in our state? Be sure to check out the 10 p.m. Sunday night WCCO newscasts, where you can learn more in the weekly segment, Finding Minnesota.