The Långe Jan lighthouse — 'Tall John' — first cast its light over the Baltic waves on November 1, 1785. Rising from the craftsmanship of, perhaps, Russian prisoners of war, it stands as a beacon of history and maritime safety on Öland's southernmost point. Initially measuring a soaring 36 meters and requiring a 197-step ascent, it now proudly stretches to 41.6 meters, claiming the title of Sweden's loftiest lighthouse. Once cradling an open flame against the Nordic sky, Långe Jan has seen transformations from bare stone, borrowed from a bygone chapel, to a whitewashed pillar with a distinguishing black band. Surrounded by the thriving Ottenby bird station, Långe Jan's legacy is as enduring as the coastal winds, welcoming visitors each summer to scale its heights and embrace a panoramic sweep of sea and sky.

The Långe Erik — 'Tall Erik' or oficially 'Ölands norra udde' — lighthouse, perched on the northern tip of Öland on Stora Grund, is a 32-metre-tall structure built from limestone. Climbing the 138 steps to the balcony, positioned at approximately 28 meters, affords visitors a commanding view of the surrounding seascape.

There’s no better place than the Minnesota State Fair to get a feel for what Minnesota is all about. The “Great Minnesota Get-Together” draws over 1.5 million attendees every year and is the largest 12-day fair in North America. The annual celebration features endless games and rides, animal exhibits, and over 400 free concerts. The fair celebrates everything that is special about Minnesota. If you’re looking for an experience you won’t find anywhere else, visit the North Woods area to see lumberjack and stunt dogs performances, and make sure to catch the State Fair Parade at 2pm every day. Popular musical artists visit the Grandstand each year to play to sold-out crowds. Food is also a highlight of the State Fair; past culinary innovations included SPAM sushi, deep fried grilled cheese bites, and a Reuben pickle dog!