Minneapolis, often referred to as one of the Twin Cities alongside its neighbor Saint Paul, is an incredible destination for family outings. With numerous educational institutions, secure neighborhoods, and a wide array of cultural experiences, it’s like your own outdoor adventure land! While you might not find sandy beaches with cocktails adorned with little pink umbrellas here, the Twin Cities are far from being frozen year-round—let us show you the vibrant activities waiting for you!
Top Kid-Friendly Accommodations
Finding a family-friendly place to stay is essential during your visit to Minneapolis. If you’re looking to earn some hotel rewards points for a future getaway, the Hotel Ivy offers a charming urban atmosphere with stunning views. For a more trendy option, consider the Towneplace Suites in the Northloop area of downtown. If you prefer a convenient location with spa amenities, The Loews Downtown is a fantastic choice.
If hotels don’t meet your needs and you’d prefer a home-like atmosphere (with a mini kitchen and perhaps a separate bedroom for the kids), Airbnb features some of our favorite Twin Cities accommodations—from treetop apartments to Art District lofts and cozy tiny homes.
Getting Around Minneapolis
If you stay in the downtown area, you can easily navigate the city on foot. However, if you plan to visit the lakes (and we hope you do!), renting a car is a smart idea. Hertz has several pickup locations throughout the city for your convenience.
Unforgettable Experiences for Kids
Beyond the iconic Mall of America (which we totally understand if you want to visit), there are countless unique experiences waiting for you in Minneapolis. Put aside tech devices and explore local gems such as Therapeutic Forest Walks, Pottery Classes, Mochi Making, and even Nordic Spoon Carving (yes, really!).
Interactive Museums for Young Explorers
Dedicate a day to visit Minneapolis’s renowned interactive museums. Head to downtown St. Paul to experience the Minnesota Children’s Museum, an incredible facility dedicated to learning through play for children up to age 10. With constantly changing exhibits and family-friendly spaces, it’s a true gem.
While in St. Paul, don’t miss the Science Museum of Minnesota, where both kids and adults can marvel at intriguing exhibits and enjoy lunch with views of the Mississippi River. And be sure to stop by The Jackson Street Roundhouse, a former steam engine maintenance site that offers children a unique chance to experience the world of railroading up close.
Exploring History in Minneapolis
Set aside time to delve into the rich history of the area. The Minnesota History Center offers a fascinating look into the state’s past. If you’re up for a day trip, explore Historic Fort Snelling, which recreates life on military forts from over a century ago.
Little fans of “Little House on the Prairie” can visit Walnut Grove, while train enthusiasts will adore the Twin City Model Railroad Museum in St. Paul, featuring captivating exhibits and a night train. Over in Minneapolis, the Mill City Museum provides insights into the history of the flour industry and its connection to the city.
Exciting Activities for Kids
Ready for a day at the zoo? The Como Park Zoo in St. Paul is a delightful, free destination (donations welcomed!) where kids can get up close with a variety of animals. There are also lovely picnic spots, a beautiful conservatory, and Como Town Amusement Park for summer thrills. After the zoo, take a stroll around Como Lake for even more outdoor fun.
For another great day out, the Minnesota Zoo offers a plethora of attractions, including penguins, bears, an interactive farm, and an outdoor nature play area—perfect for children and adults alike.
Outdoor Fun in Minneapolis
Known as the land of 10,000 lakes, many of Minneapolis’s lakes are right within the city! The Chain of Lakes offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the city through walking, biking, or even sailing. Take breaks at charming neighborhoods to enjoy a coffee or ice cream from local favorites like Sebastian Joe’s in Minneapolis or Grand Ole Creamery in Saint Paul.
For a picturesque family photo, don’t miss Minnehaha Park, home to the stunning Minnehaha Falls. Summer visitors can also take advantage of the extensive bike paths throughout the Twin Cities by renting a Nice Ride bike.
Sports enthusiasts can catch a minor league game with the St. Paul Saints for an affordable family outing, or cheer for one of the many professional teams in the area, including the Minnesota Twins (baseball), Vikings (football), Wild (hockey), Lynx (WNBA), Timberwolves (NBA), and the Swarm (lacrosse).
Kid-Friendly Attractions in the Twin Cities
The Mall of America is a must-visit, being one of the largest indoor shopping centers in the country, offering exceptional shopping, dining, and entertainment. Inside, you’ll find an amusement park, an aquarium, and an interactive LEGO store, as well as the American Girl Doll store and IKEA just across the street!
For book lovers, two of the best children’s bookstores can be found in the Twin Cities. The Red Balloon Bookshop in Saint Paul features a vast selection of books and delightful story times, and is surrounded by excellent cafes like Cafe Latte. Meanwhile, Wild Rumpus in Minneapolis is a whimsical store known for its playful atmosphere and friendly animals.
Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Walker Art Center and its Sculpture Garden, perfect for a stroll and picnic while enjoying breathtaking views of Minneapolis. The Minneapolis Institute of Arts (MIA) is another highlight; this free museum has fantastic kid-friendly spaces and an on-site restaurant serving delicious family-friendly meals.
Additionally, Minneapolis boasts a vibrant theater scene, including the Children’s Theatre Company, which produces shows loved by both kids and adults. Other notable children’s theaters are located at Steppingstone in St. Paul, Stages in Hopkins, and Heart of the Beast in Minneapolis.
Family Dining in Minneapolis
For a true taste of local culture, visit a farmer’s market! Minneapolis and St. Paul both host excellent markets where you can find fresh produce, local artisans, and snacks for picnics. Be sure to check out the St. Paul Farmer’s Market, the Minneapolis Market, and the Mill City Market!
Essentials for Your Minneapolis Trip
As the designated family packer, you’ll want to ensure you’re well-prepared for your trip. Since Minneapolis is a walking city, comfortable shoes are a must. I recommend sporty sneakers from New Balance for strolling between attractions. Staying organized is simple with a leather backpack to carry all your essentials throughout the day.
Picnic spots at places like the Minneapolis Zoo call for an insulated cooler to pack meals for the family. Additionally, a windbreaker is handy, as the breezes from the many lakes can be chilly. Of course, shopping is part of the fun—whether at the Mall of America or in local bookstores, an oversized tote bag is perfect for your purchases.
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In summary, Minneapolis is a vibrant destination filled with diverse experiences for families. From outdoor adventures and interactive museums to exciting dining options and cultural attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful city.