Homes by architects
Get an inside look at 17 new and remodeled homes in the Twin Cities, all designed by AIA Minnesota-member architects, during the Homes by Architects Tour, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept 16-17. Tickets are $15 in advance at homesby architects.org; $20 at homes on tour days; $10 for a single home.
Design trends
Architecture MN magazine will present a conversation about trends on display at this year's Homes by Architects tour, as part of a "Fall Issue Launch Party." Moderator Chris Hudson and three local experts will discuss small-space living and ecotourism at 5:30 p.m. on Sept. 13. Free. Room & Board, 7010 France Av. S., Edina.
Historic house tour
"Treasures of Ramsey Hill" is the theme of the biennial house tour sponsored by the Ramsey Hill Association. The self-guided tour showcases the history and architecture of 12 homes and seven public buildings in St. Paul's Ramsey Hill neighborhood. Homes on the tour include the Burbank-Livingston-Griggs Mansion, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and an eerie haunted Victorian mansion, 3-8 p.m. Sept. 14. Tickets, $30, are available at ramseyhill.org.
Peony care
Fall is the perfect time to split and move peonies. Swenson Gardens is hosting a free hands-on Peony Workshop that takes gardeners through the steps of digging, dividing and planting. Participants are encouraged to bring a pre-washed peony so that experts can help you divide your prized plant. The workshops are offered at 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m. on Sept. 15-16. A bonus is the peony barn sale, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. Swenson Gardens, 10958 70th St. SW., Howard Lake, Minn.
Transit Tour
Relax on the A Line during a tour of the Twin Cities, sponsored by the Preservation Alliance of Minnesota. The journey begins and ends at Macalester College, passing through various educational institutions and the State Fairgrounds. Other attractions are two streets with lengthy histories, Summit and University avenues. The tour will highlight cultural and social moments throughout the ages and their surroundings. 9 a.m. Sept. 16. $20. Macalester College is located at Snelling and Grand avenues, St. Paul. Register at mnpreservation.org.
Guided bird tour
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is offering a guided stroll through nature. Wear comfortable shoes and bring binoculars or a camera to catch a glimpse of waterfowl, raptors and other species. Bird-watchers will meet the guide at the Oak Savanna Learning Center, 17076 293rd Av., Zimmerman, Minn., at 8 a.m. Sept. 16. The free tour includes both walking and driving. Preregistration is requested at 763-389-3323 or sherburne@fws.gov.
Fall lawns and gardens
Learn about preparing your yard for fall at Gertens Super Workshop Weekend. Get firsthand tips on pruning and seasonal lawn care, fall planting and creating vibrant fall containers, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sept. 16. Free. Gertens, 5500 Blaine Av., Inver Grove Heights. Registration requested at gertens.com/events.
Meet contractors
Do you have a home-improvement project that you haven't tackled because you have no idea where to begin? Here's an opportunity to chat with contractors face-to-face and ask basic questions about your project. Menards is hosting a Local Contractor Connection Event in all stores, 4 to 8 p.m. on Sept. 12, 13 and 14.
MELISSA WALKER
