Today we’d like to introduce you to Lilly Miller.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My journey in tourism has been one of constant adaptation. In March 2020, my college moved completely online due to COVID-19. At the time, I was interviewing for internships to finish my degree. With so much uncertainty, I moved back home to West Salem, WI, to figure out my next steps toward graduation. About two weeks after moving home, I experienced the sudden passing of my dad. It felt like nothing good was happening, and I struggled to find any sense of stability in my life.
In the fall of 2020, I was fortunate to be offered an internship at Visit Grand Rapids, with the understanding that it might remain only an internship depending on funding. Luckily, after completing the internship, I was able to stay on part-time while finishing my classes. Less than a year after moving there—after completing the internship and earning my degree—I was offered a full-time position as a Marketing Coordinator.
This experience showed me how interconnected the tourism industry truly is. I worked closely with local businesses, contributed to creative marketing campaigns, helped launch a music festival, assisted with two visitor guides, managed social media for a mountain bike park, and gained countless personal and professional experiences that helped me grow. There is something truly special about Grand Rapids—that’s why their slogan is “It’s in Minnesota’s nature.”
In June 2022, my boyfriend (now husband) was offered a job in the Twin Cities, prompting another big move. That October, we got engaged. I began looking into local visitor bureaus, hoping to do some blogging work to earn a little extra money for our wedding. As luck would have it, there was an opening at Visit Inver Grove Heights—it felt like fate.
In August 2023, I accepted the role of Executive Director and became the organization’s sole staff member. It has been incredibly heartwarming to be welcomed into the community, meet local business owners, and collaborate with local organizations to uplift Inver Grove Heights as a tourist destination.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My professional career and personal life have been filled with many bumps in the road. I have navigated the pandemic, lost my dad, moved five hours away to a new state for an internship, learned a new community, and relocated to the Twin Cities for the first time—without a job for three months. During that time, the unit next to ours in our apartment building caught on fire, and we were displaced for two weeks. I also stepped into a role as the only staff member, learning both the position and the organizational structure, while struggling with low energy due to a heart valve that needed replacing and ultimately underwent my second open heart surgery.
Although these obstacles challenged me, they made me stronger—mentally, physically, and professionally. I can proudly say that I run a visitors bureau with the support of an amazing board of directors. I am proud of pushing myself to move to new places in pursuit of new opportunities. When I look back on those hardships, I think, dang, I really did that.
What gets me through the tough times is knowing they are temporary—a passing feeling or phase. There is always something good coming next.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
What I want people to know about Inver Grove Heights and why they should visit is that our charming community offers the perfect mix of outdoor recreation, history, and unique local businesses. Our slogan, “It’s closer than you think,” truly rings true. Within 15–30 minutes, visitors can reach major attractions, including MSP Airport, downtown St. Paul, downtown Minneapolis, and all major sporting venues, which makes Inver Grove Heights the perfect place to stay.
In Inver Grove Heights, you’ll find locally owned attractions such as axe throwing at PerpBunny’s Axe House, mini golf, escape rooms, an arcade, an indoor haunted house that hosts unique seasonal experiences throughout the year at nowhere entertainment, fantastic live performances at open window theatre, Gertens- Minnesota’s Destination Garden Center and bowling at Drkula’s, which hosted the first U.S. Open in 1971.
My all-time favorite spot in Inver Grove Heights is the Rock Island Swing Bridge. What once functioned as a swing bridge—carrying vehicles on the lower level and trains across the top—was even used by John Dillinger as an escape route from police. Today, it serves as a recreational pier stretching more than 600 feet into the Mississippi River, offering stunning 360-degree views. It’s a remarkable blend of history, nature, and industry that still stands today.
My all time- time favorite season might shock people but it is Christmas time in Inver Grove Heights. We are known as Minnesotas destination for home lights. Inver Grove Heights go all out on home lights, themes and bring the Christmas magic to the community and visitors.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I have been fortunate to have so many amazing mentors. Advice I would give to anyone—whether new to their industry or well established—is to find an organization related to their field that offers education and networking opportunities. With things constantly changing, it is incredibly helpful to have colleagues you can lean on.
Throughout my time in tourism, I have been involved with the Minnesota Tourism Association, serving as Chair of the Education Committee and as a member of the Board of Directors. I can confidently say this organization has taught me so much—I’ve gained lasting friendships, leadership opportunities, and invaluable professional growth.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://visitigh.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visit_igh/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visitigh/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgzEZ09vdVtrvIlNhmieYKg
