The Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul are vibrant, modern cities rich in American history and natural beauty. Bordered by the Mississippi River on one side and expansive forests on the other, the Twin Cities couldn’t be a more family-friendly location.
Whether you’re new to the area or have loved living here for decades, there are tons of fun things to do with kids in Minneapolis and St. Paul.
To help you have the best possible day on the town with your nearest and dearest, we’ve created this handy guide to the best family activities in the Twin Cities.
The Dodge Nature Center
The best family activities in the Twin Cities cannot be completed without a visit to the Dodge Nature Center. This is one of the most popular nature centers in the area and it is easy to see why. With a large area to explore, the options for activities are endless.
Hiking, picnicking, bird watching, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing are just a few of the things that families can enjoy while visiting the center. There is also an on-site cafe and gift shop for those who need a break from the outdoor activities.
Discovery Hollow Nature Play Area
The best family activities in the Twin Cities include a visit to the Discovery Hollow Nature Play Area! This outdoor play space is designed for kids of all ages and features a wide variety of activities to keep everyone entertained.
There is a treehouse, a water play area, mud pies kitchen, a sand play area, and so much more. Discovery Hollow is the perfect place to spend a day exploring nature and having fun with the family.
Minnesota Children’s Museum
The best family activities in the Twin Cities are the ones that keep everyone happy and busy. At the Minnesota Children’s Museum, there is something for everyone. From the youngest child to the oldest adult, there is something to enjoy.
The museum has interactive exhibits, educational programs, and a variety of ways to have fun. A museum is a great place for family fun in Minneapolis.
Bunker Beach Water Park
The Bunker Beach Water Park is one of the best family activities in the Twin Cities. The park is full of exciting features, including a wave pool, a lazy river, and slides. The slides are the main attraction at the park, and they are sure to thrill any member of the family.
The best time to visit Bunker Beach Water Park is on a weekday when the crowds are smaller and the lines are shorter.
Minneapolis Institute of Art
One of the best as well is a trip to the Minneapolis Institute of Art. The MIA is one of the world’s finest art museums, and it’s right in our backyard. A visit to the MIA is a great way to spend a day with the family, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
From the world-renowned paintings and sculptures to the hands-on activities for kids, to the special exhibitions and events, there’s something for everyone at the MIA. And best of all, admission is free, so you can spend as much or as little time as you like exploring the incredible art on display.
Crayola Experience
The Crayola Experience is a great place to take the kids to enjoy some time together while they learn about and create art. The experience is interactive and fun, and the staff is very friendly and helpful.
There are plenty of activities to keep the kids busy, and they’ll love learning about all the different colors and how to use them. The Crayola Experience is a great place for a family day out, and you’ll want to come back again.
Sea Life at Mall of America
Sea Life at Mall of America is an educational and fun experience for all ages. The Sea Life staff is very knowledgeable about the sea creatures and their habitats. They are also very friendly and will answer any questions you have.
The exhibits are very well maintained and the sea life is healthy and active. There is a wide variety of sea life to see including sharks, stingrays, seahorses, and many others. The Sea Life at Mall of America is a great place to learn about the wonders of the sea.
Afton Apple Orchard
The best family activities in the Twin Cities are definitely at the Afton Apple Orchard! What to expect there? Well, for starters, the orchard is huge and there are plenty of apple trees to pick from.
You can also expect to find a variety of other activities for the family to enjoy, such as a petting zoo, hayrides, and a playground. And, of course, there are plenty of apples to buy and take home with you.
The Bakken Museum
This museum is all about energy and how it works, so it’s perfect for curious kids. There are plenty of hands-on exhibits to keep little ones entertained, and the staff is always happy to answer questions. The Bakken Museum is a great way to learn about the science of energy and have a lot of fun too.
The Great Escape Room Minneapolis
The Great Escape Room Minneapolis is a live-action puzzle game that is perfect for families with kids of all ages. Work together to solve puzzles and find clues to escape the room before time runs out.
It’s perfect for a rainy day or when you’re looking for something fun and different to do. Best of all, it’s affordable and located right in the heart of downtown Minneapolis.
Minnesota Zoo
The Minnesota Zoo is a great place for families to visit. There are many different exhibits to see and activities to do. The zoo also has a variety of educational programs for children and adults. The Minnesota Zoo is a great place to learn about different animals and their habitats.
Bring Your Kids to the Best Family Activities in the Twin Cities
The best family activities in the Twin Cities are waiting for you and your kids! From zoos and museums to parks and playgrounds, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So what are you waiting for? Get out and explore the Twin Cities with your family today!
If you had fun reading this article, check out the rest of our content — we have a lot to share with you!