Ames Center

The Ames Center originally opened its doors in 2009 under the name of the Burnsville Performing Arts Center, and is the hub of artistic excellence for the Burnsville area. It's the home of the following resident companies: the Chameleon Theatre Circle, the Twin Cities Ballet of Minnesota and the Dakota Valley Symphony. You'll also find a wonderful art gallery featuring monthly exhibits on rotation. Additionally, the center brings in many top-tier professional actors, musicians and comedians for special performances.

Parking at the Ames Center
You'll find plenty of parking for patrons of the Ames Center. Your first consideration for parking should be at the Heart of the City Parking Ramp located adjacent to the Ames Center. This is a two level parking structure and will minimize foot travel to the venue. If that ramp is full, there's another parking structure called the Heart of the City Park and Ride located one block south on 126th Street and Pillsbury. If that's full, there's always nearby street parking.

Best and worst time to visit the Ames Center
The best time to visit the Ames Center is in the evening when the lights and the exterior water features seem to come to life. During the summer evenings and special performance dates you'll want to plan ahead for your parking needs because of the high traffic volumes.

Admission to the Ames Center
The admission price to the Ames Center is free, with the exception of special events. Check their calendar for pricing to the events.

Must see/do at the Ames Center
It's highly recommended that you take in the Ames Center during the outdoor music or family events. The lighting, the stone seating and the fountains make the amphitheater appear even more beautiful. One event you probably won't want to miss is Handel's Messiah.

Insider tips for visitors to the Ames Center
If you're attending an outdoor event and need something softer than the stone amphitheater seating, bring along a comfy, yet stylish personal lawn chair. If you're planning to purchase tickets to an event, they only use Ticketmaster as their re-seller –- don't risk buying from another ticket re-seller.

Other places to visit near the Ames Center
There are so many things to do locally that to name a few would certainly be amiss to the rest. However, if you're looking for local outdoor activities, I recommend The Landing in Shakopee. If you're in the mood for a little shopping, there's the Mall of America in Bloomington. Looking for something a little more 'racey'? Go check out the ponies at Canterbury Park in Shakopee.

Author's bio: Julie Bergh has lived in Minnesota most of her life -- and loves it (except for those really cold winter days that send a shiver down her spine). She loves to laugh and travel locally, nationally and internationally -– finding secret location treasures and amazing deals along the way. She loves spending time with her family, reading a good mystery and fooding it up. You can catch her on several blogs as well as women's websites writing about her other passions in life.