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Video: Cook County encouraging visitors, but advising safety

Jun 30, 2020 05:45AM ● By Editor

Watch the WDIO-TV Video here

Photo: Visit Cook County

By Ryan Juntti of WDIO-TV - June 29, 2020

The North Shore is sure to be a popular tourist destination this Fourth of July, but it comes during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cook County has safety recommendations that people are advised to follow, but they say they are more than open to the idea of people going there, if they want. 

"We're hearing from our lodging partners that there is demand, that people are interested in coming," said Visit Cook County Marketing & PR Director Kjersti Vick.

Vick says while most people want tourists to come, others aren't as open to the idea, so she wants to make sure both visitors and residents respect each other.

"It's really important that people are respectful. Both on the local residence side of things, but also the visitor side of things in that we're all just trying to get through this pandemic together as easily as we can," said Vick.

For anyone who does choose to head north, Vick says safety is a top priority.

"At this time, yes we are still encouraging people to travel safely. Be with members of their own party, remain six feet apart from people that are outside of their own party, but the North Shore and Gunflint Trail are welcoming places for visitors, if they choose to travel right now," said Vick.

Visitors are recommended to bring a face mask, and Vick says many businesses will require wearing them.

She says most local businesses have also installed plexiglass, and require their employees wear masks.

"I want to commend our business community for being really thoughtful, and spending a lot of time working together to come up with solutions," said Vick.

Outside of dining in, Vick says restaurants are offering curbside pickup, but there aren't any drive-throughs in Cook County.

So while it's not the typical experience, it's still a chance to get away, and explore the best sights and sounds the Northland has to offer.

"Everything's not going to be the exact same as it always has been, but the same great place exists, and it's open for all," said Vick.

Vick says they have also identified picnic spots for visitors, as she says they have seen an increase in people looking for picnic areas. Click here if you are interested.


To see the original story and read related reporting, follow this link to the WDIO-TV website.  https://www.wdio.com/minnesota-news/cook-county-open-visitors-encouraging-safety/5776508/?cat=10335



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