The Cannon River Passport: 10 Stamps, One Perfect Day-Trip
Discover Northfield’s charm on a one-tank trip from Hastings. Collect ten “passport stamps” at local cafes, shops, and eateries – each with its own story, flavor, and friendly flair – all in one perfect day.
Chrome & Sirens: Highlights from Hastings’ 2025 Car-Show Kick-Off—and a Road-Trip Invitation from the Minnesota Fire Engine Club
Classic chrome met ringing sirens at the 2025 Hastings Car Show; view the top shots and plan a quick trip to MnFEC’s glow-lit Pumpers in the Park on May 24.
Battle of the Badges: Police, Fire & Students Score Big for Basic Needs
Police, firefighters, and Park High students teamed up in Cottage Grove’s first “Battle of the Badges” basketball game, raising thousands for Basic Needs Inc. and SoWashCo CARES—and proving that Hastings-area volunteers can slam-dunk hunger together.
Feeding Hope with Dignity: The Story of Basic Needs Food Market
A Hastings-area nonprofit has reinvented the food shelf as a free grocery store where families in need can shop with dignity. Basic Needs Food Market in Cottage Grove provides fresh, healthy food at no cost – no questions asked – to anyone facing hardship. Learn how this volunteer-run market is rescuing tons of surplus food from local grocers, feeding hundreds of local families (especially kids who rely on free school lunches), and inspiring a community-driven fight against hunger.
10 Inver Grove Heights Gems for the Ultimate Hastings Day Trip
Ready to roam beyond Hastings? Buckle up for a short trek to Inver Grove Heights, where a treasure trove of independently owned shops, eateries, and hangouts awaits. We’ve curated ten unique small businesses – from a lakeside brewpub to a retro bowling alley – that embody Minnesota charm and are perfect for an H-Town day trip.
10 Small Businesses in Farmington Worth the Drive from Hastings
Looking for a quick escape with big heart? Just 20 minutes from Hastings, these 10 Farmington small businesses offer unforgettable charm, handcrafted goods, and hometown flavors. From donut dynasties and retro ice cream shops to vintage boutiques and farm-fresh adventures, this list celebrates the hidden gems and beloved staples you’ll be glad you discovered.
Eagan’s Top 10 Local Legends Worth the Drive from Hastings
From a secret whiskey speakeasy behind a burger joint to a sprawling indoor playground where kids rule, Eagan is home to some truly unique small businesses. “Eagan’s Top 10 Local Legends Worth the Drive from Hastings” profiles ten standout spots – iconic restaurants like Jensen’s Food & Cocktails and Hoban Korean Restaurant, family-friendly havens like Good Times Park, and more. Each profile dives into the business’s origin story, evolution, and one-of-a-kind offerings, with current details and insider tips. Whether you’re a foodie, a fashionista, or a family on an adventure, these Eagan gems offer something special – and they’re all just a short drive from Hastings. Read on to see why Eagan’s local legends deserve a spot on your must-visit list.
Cowboy Disco, Vintage Treasures & Grilled Delights: How Local Exchange is Uniting Cottage Grove & Hastings!
Discover the vibrant spirit of our local community in this engaging feature on Cottage Grove's most unique venues! From cowboy disco nights at The Madison and vintage treasures at Boondocks Vintage Boutique to grilled delights at Junction 70 Grill, explore how the Local Exchange program is uniting Hastings and Cottage Grove through creativity, unforgettable events, and authentic connections.
HastingsNow.com’s First "Local Exchange" – A Heartwarming Success in Cannon Falls, Minnesota
Discover the inspiring story of HastingsNow.com’s first-ever Local Exchange in Cannon Falls, MN. From connecting with local businesses to fostering community spirit, this inaugural event showcased the best of collaboration and local pride. Read on to learn how the Local Exchange is building bridges between neighboring communities.