Planning family vacations has never been easier than it is now, in the era of the Internet. You can get all the information you want, along with the list of places to visit and the budget you would require for the trip. If you’re not sure where to go this time, you might want to take a look at Minneapolis.
The larger of the Twin Cities, it is divided from Saint Paul by the Mississippi river. It is known for its lakes, parks, and natural attractions. But the city has much more to offer to its visitors than this. If you are planning a family vacation with kids to Minneapolis, we have a list of places that you might like to visit.
Check out the kids’ and family attractions in Minneapolis that you will love to visit this summer or spring.
Natural and Outdoor Attractions
Minneapolis is filled with outdoor spaces and natural attractions that would give you and your family ample opportunities spend some time in the lap of nature. Check out these outdoor spaces and natural attractions in Minneapolis that you will love to visit in summer.
Lake Harriet and Lake Harriet Park
Lake Harriet is one of Minneapolis’ most popular lakes in terms of family destinations. Here, you can swim at two beaches in the north and southeast sides, attend concerts for free, have a hearty meal with family, visit the Rose Garden, and hop on the trolley between Lake Harriet and Lake Calhoun.
There are paths for hiking and biking and bikes, kayaks, and paddleboards can be rented at Wheel Fun Rentals. The Lake Harriet Park remains open from 6 AM to midnight. It is a great place for family picnic, playing and spending time with your kids, and have a great day outdoors.
Minnehaha Regional Park
Minnehaha Park is the city’s most visited outdoor park that offers you recreational activities like biking, two-person choppers, quad sport bikes, and volleyball. You can also watch the picturesque Minnehaha Falls. The park has attractions like fountains, disc golf course, garden, public art space, picnic area, etc. There is also a playground and Tot Lot for toddlers.
The park remains open from 6 AM to midnight and also provides Spring Regional Park Tours for visitors. There is also a dog park here, and many historical sites like the Longfellow House, Princess Depot, and John H. Stevens House. This place also has hiking trails, and hosts beautiful outdoor weddings.
St. Anthony Falls and Stone Arch Bridge
The St. Anthony waterfall can be seen by taking a walk on the Stone Arch Bridge. You can also see the Mill City Museum from this place. This perfect outdoor tour won’t take up much of your time, so you can squeeze it among some other outdoor plans for the day.
You can stand on the bridge and watch the historic buildings, get a good view of the waterfall, and spend some family time here. The bridge does not allow cars, so it is perfectly safe to let your kids run free. There is a Lock and Dam at the Upper At. Anthony Falls, which provides a great view of the area. There are exhibits at the visitor center and you can also arrange tours with rangers.
Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary
The Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary is a beautiful place to spend a summer day. It does not open in other seasons because of the icy and snowy conditions in the trail. But when it opens, it is a picture of natural beauty that you will love to watch with your family. There are several events and programs that you can enjoy in the park, along with watching rare flowers and bird species.
Sport leagues are held here, along with school camps and summer activities. In winter, you can see another side of the park, with activities like snowboarding, ice fishing, sledding and tubing, snowshoeing, etc. You can also watch movies and enjoy music shows here.
Como Park Zoo and Conservatory
The Como Park Zoo and Conservatory is a free place that houses several species of animals and plants. It remains open throughout the year and is a great place to visit with your family and kids. The park hosts events like senior walks, weddings, and other social events. Kids can also volunteer in the zoo and conservatory, to learn more about the animals and plants here.
There is mini golf, Como Lake, Como Pool, and many other attractions in this place. You can have a picnic with your family, go on the Cafesjian’s Carousel, and take a stroll through the numerous gardens, enjoying the real feel of nature. You can also choose to host events and parties here.
Kerfoot Canopy Tour
If your family is adventurous and loves to go on an adrenaline-pumping ride, the Kerfoot Canopy Tour is the place for you to visit. It is an outdoor adventure park that lets you do several activities. Its coolest attraction is the zipline tour over the Minnesota River Valley. Scenic beauty and adventure sports are found rolled into one here.
The Adventure Park offers about 45 unique adventures that take place 50 feet above the ground. You can hire a guide for taking you through the different activities. There is something of interest for people of all ages. The self-navigating adventure course will be a great experience for your kids. And you can also have a wonderful time garnering new experiences.
Afton Apple Orchard
If you are farm and country people, Afton Apple Orchard is a great place to get in touch with nature. Spread over 200 acres of land, this orchard has trees bearing strawberries, pumpkins, raspberries, and several varieties of apples. Visitors can see around this place and pick the fruits for tasting. In the fall, you will also find a huge corn maze to navigate.
Apple picking activities start in August and continue until October. General admission is $5 for children above 5 and adults. It is $4 for children younger than 5. This place also has a large playground, Straw Mountain, Retread Hill, and Johnny Combine. It also offers rides on a farm train and a huge Jump Pad on weekends.
Museums
Minneapolis has a historic side and its museum capture that essence very well. You can visit several museums here, both for kids and adults. It is never too late to learn. So, check out these interactive and educational museums in this city that you can drop by.
Minnesota Children’s Museum
This museum is a perfect place to take your kids as they offer several exhibits to entertain, enlighten, and inspire children. It is a world of fun, with many interactive activities and a million things to learn, which you and your kids can explore together.
Your kids can have play dates here, explore new areas of learning through interactive activities, and also attend special events. The museum remains open from 9 AM to 5 PM. Bring your kids here for physical and mental stimulation through exercise and learning. They will love the exhibits and their creativity will be aroused through fun and games.
Bell Museum of Natural History
The Bell Museum of Natural History has been in operation since the last 146 years and has preserved the state’s legacy perfectly. It is located in the university’s St. Paul campus presently. Here, you can find many high-tech exhibits, wildlife dioramas, learning experiences, a digital planetarium, and much more.
This is Minnesota’s official natural history museum. Learn about nature, get to know the endemic animals and birds more, and also get acquainted with America’s space history. The museum remains open from 10 AM to 5 PM, apart from Monday. You can catch a planetarium show with your family or just enjoy your day learning more about the world around you.
Science Museum of Minnesota
Science is always easier to learn when it is through interactive experiences and demonstrations. The Science Museum at Minnesota is one such place where you and your kids will learn science in a fun way. The best part about this place is that you can take part in the activities with your children and find a way to strengthen your bond.
The museum holds classes and educational programs by learned instructors, as well as camps for all. You can also catch movies, exhibits, and shows at the auditorium here. There are several programs lined up in a single day, so you will always find something of your choice.
Amusement Parks and Shows
Amusement parks are always great for a day out with family, and Minneapolis offers many of this kind. You can also catch shows, movies, and plays here. People of all ages will be able to enjoy these attractions. So check out these cool things to do in Minneapolis with your kids and family.
Valleyfair
The largest amusement park in the city, Valleyfair has more than 75 rides and exciting offerings, including Planet Snoopy, Dinosaurs Alive, Route 76, Soak City Waterpark, etc. Kids and adults can spend an equally good time here. Valleypark also hosts group corporate outings, family tours, and other such events of your choice. Both dry and water rides are available for people of all ages here.
Apart from the conventional attractions, Valleyfair is also home to unique events, like Minnesota Eats, Corn Feast, Food Truck Festival, etc. You can have a relaxing time with your family or take on the adrenaline-pumping rides. The park remains open from 10 AM to 8 PM.
Nickelodeon Universe
Nickelodeon Universe is located at the Mall of America and is a theme park full of unique attractions and rides. Guests of all ages and interests will be able to find something of choice here. Its specialty is the Certified Autism Center that has trained individuals who can interact with autistic kids and make them feel welcome and entertained.
Your kids can meet fictional characters here, like SpongeBob and Dora, along with getting to go on numerous rides. It also hosts special events depending on their calendar. You can check out their website before visiting this place, to make sure you do not miss out on the event of your choice.
Good Times Park
This is a unique indoor park with a basketball court, inflatable jumper, turf field, and an Imagine & Build area. It is a perfect place to enjoy a day out of the sun and still have as much fun as possible. Its play area has several soft units where your kids can indulge in construction play without the risk of getting hurt.
You can get a pass for the whole day and sit back and relax, while your kids have the time of their lives. It is a perfectly safe place and offers a variety of attractions that will appeal to both boys and girls. It is operational between 7 AM to 9.30 PM daily. Its Hologram Games are also extremely interesting and would prove to be a new experience for your kids.
Children’s Theatre Company
Although Minneapolis has several theatres like Stages in Hopkins and Heart of the Beast, Children’s Theatre Company deserves a special mention. It puts on shows and plays that appeal to both kids and adults alike. These shows have got some rave reviews from visitors, and if you choose to check out this place, we guarantee you won’t be disappointed. This place guarantees to provide unique theatre experiences that help in educating and inspiring viewers.
You can plan your visits to this place and also select your play based on the categories they offer, divided by age groups. Some of their shows are The Hobbit, Matilda The Musical, Cinderella, Circus Abyssinia, etc. They also provide classes and camps for theatre enthusiasts, where kids will get the best training in drama. Schools can also organize tours and field trips here.
Apart from all the attractions mentioned, Minneapolis has a huge list of things you can do with your kids and family. Be it spring, summer, or fall, there is always an opportunity to explore the city and have a great family vacation here. You can plan an outdoor trip, an adventurous tour, or a fun-filled day at an amusement park. The city is full of budget friendly entertainment options. So don’t think twice, get up and plan your vacation now.