Train ride: other than being on a train or waiting for a train for 12+ hours, traveling Amtrak was very comfortable and I will take it again. Must remember to pack more food and water, though. $2.25 for a water bottle? No thanks.
As for the Cities themselves, very cool. I got to see the Stone Arch bridge, the mills, the sculpture garden, Minnehaha Falls, Mall of America, the St. Paul RiverCentre, and the X. On race day, I got to walk in the Metrodome concourse, which was pretty nice.
Food wise, Cossetta's was a good pick. The portobello mushroom ravioli was worth every penny. I went to Mickey's before I boarded the train to come home, and I love that they cook everything in butter. Hopefully I can return for the Final Five, and when I do, I'll be visiting Matt's Bar and Gasthof's for sure.