Hi there! I’m Antonia, the Minnesota mom and writer behind Knead to Roam. I am passionate about creating content – like itineraries, guides, and inspirational posts – that help YOU and your family have fun adventures + make memories together! I also firmly believe in providing kids with experiences over things – which is why you’ll see more ideas for adventures together than things to buy from me.
In addition to this blog, I am a freelance writer and content creator for other publications and tourism boards (see some recent articles found “in the wild” below!). I have been writing about travel, outdoor adventures, and food “full-time” since 2021. Before that, I spent nearly a decade working in Higher Education, while writing on the side since 2019. I have an M.A. degree in Leadership in Student Affairs and have worked in a variety of on-campus offices, from student abroad and academic support to career services. I pivoted in 2021 to be home more with my daughter – and to better enrich our lives through more time spent traveling, in nature, and, of course, together as a family. In my free time, I am an avid baker, reader, trip planner, hiker, and Italian-language learner.
Throughout my blog, you will find extensive guides to our favorite travel destinations in Minnesota, the Midwest, and Beyond, as well as travel-inspired recipes, our favorite hiking trails, and more. My goal is to make your family adventures fun + attainable. Ready to start planning? Let’s go!
Contact Me:
antonia @ kneadtoroam.com
Interested in working together? Learn more here!
Meet My Travel Crew!
My usual travel crew includes my husband and daughter! When I started blogging and sharing our travels online, we decided, as a family, to allow my husband and daughter some anonymity in the process. As such, I lovingly refer to them as Hoagie and Sweet Pea (or, SP), respectively, when writing about them. They both chose their own nom de plumes and have embraced them over the years!
My husband and I have been traveling together since 2007! Our first trip together was to Colorado. We both love experiencing new places through food and meandering local neighborhoods. Before becoming parents, our favorite trips included a European backpacking tour and a honeymoon in St. Lucia. SP joined our travel crew and we’ve continued to embrace our love for travel as a family. When we travel, our little trio loves finding local playgrounds and exploring nature, as well as museums, cooking classes, and more. I still believe playgrounds are the best places to ask for local restaurant recommendations!
Then, we often travel with our extended families too! I love multigenerational travel. When it works and it’s an option (I know it’s not for everyone!), there are so many benefits for everyone in the family, from seeing the world through a new lens and learning from one another to strengthening family bonds. You’ll see us embarking on travels throughout the world with our families, adding a new twist to our adventures!
Fun Facts About Me + My Family
What’s on your family travel bucket list?
Everywhere! But the shortlist includes Japan, Washington DC, Sicily, Paris, Zanzibar, New Zealand, and Argentina.
How old was SP on her first flight?
She took her first domestic flight at 7 months, and her first international flight (to Canada) at 13 months. She was 3 the first time we took her to Europe.
Favorite spot in Minnesota?
Hands down, the North Shore. There is something truly special about this part of Minnesota. In fact, Hoagie and I met in Duluth. And, Hoagie’s parents live in Grand Marais – which means we have a great place to stay whenever we want to visit.
Favorite kid-friendly destinations so far?
I believe you can find kid-friendly things to do everywhere! With that said, particular favorites have been Italy (Rome and Puglia especially), Coastal Maine, Prince Edward Island, Boise, and Seattle.
What countries have you been to as a family so far?
Together, we have been to:
- the Bahamas
- Canada (6 provinces)
- Denmark
- England
- Italy
- Mexico
- Puerto Rico
- Scotland
- and 17 US states
Favorite places to eat in Minneapolis?
Oh gosh, there are SO many. We truly live in a foodie paradise filled with cuisines from across the globe. If I had to pick a few, I’d include Broders’ Pasta Bar, Hola Arepa, Lu’s Sandwiches, Afro Deli, and Italian Eatery.
Places You’ll Find My Writing + Photography
- Families Love Travel (search for Antonia Grant in the search bar)
- Chisago Lakes Visitor Bureau (look for Antonia Grant amongst the Blogs)
- Outdoor Wise Living – Trail Tales: Magnetic Rock Trail, Gunflint Trail – Grand Marais, MN
- Kids Who Explore – Best Hikes on Minnesota’s North Shore with Kids