Minnesota Parent Family Directory & Favorites Issue 2026

FAVORITES WINNERS

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ANIMAL EXPERIENCES, FARMS & ZOOS

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FREE FAMILY FUN

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ART STUDIOS uPAGE 23 SPLASH PADS uPAGE 59 INDOOR

uPAGE 39 SKIING & TUBING HILLS uPAGE 63

November 3, 2026-January 3, 2027

February 23-April 4, 2027

April 21June 14, 2026

October 13-November 22, 2026

January 12-February 7, 2027

May 4-June 27, 2027

Thank You!

Editor

Katie Heruth

katie@minnesotaparent.com

For 40 years, Minnesota Parent has been proud to support and inspire families with trusted resources, local insights, and meaningful connections. We’re honored to be part of so many parenting journeys and grateful to grow alongside the communities we serve. 6 12 16 73

Brand Partnerships & Sales

Retailers I 9

Food & Drink I 10

Services I 11

Things to Do in 2026

Amusement Parks I 18

Animal Experiences, Farms, & Zoos I 19

Apple Orchards I 21

Art Studios I 23

Bookstores I 25

Bowling Alleys I 30

Coffee Shops with Play Areas I 32

Family Entertainment Centers & Arcades I 35

Free Family Fun I 37 4Indoor Playgrounds I 39

Mini Golf I 44 4Museums I 45 4Parks & Playgrounds I 51 4Pools & Water Parks I 54

Splash Pads I 59

Skiing & Tubing Hills I 63

Over 92,000 family favorite votes were cast from January 1st - January 31st, 2026. We congratulate this year’s winners. Thank you to our premier sponsor

Ann Knuttila ann@minnesotaparent.com

Graphic Designer

Amanda Del Vecchio

Focuspoint Designs

Contributor

Antonia Grant

Minnesota Parent is published by Minnesota Parent Publications, LLC. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Minnesota Parent cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Family Favorites: 4Entertainment I 6

Theatres & Music Venues I 65 Local Partner Directory

CHECK OUT OUR RESOURCES ON SOCIAL MEDIA, TOO!

FAMILY FAVORITES

ENTERTAINMENT

BEST BEACHES FOR SWIMMING

Elm Creek Swimming Pond u

Lake Elmo Park Reserve Swim Pond v

Lake Nokomis Beach

BEST MUSEUM FOR FAMILIES

Minnesota Children’s Museum

Science Museum of Minnesota

Bell Museum w

BEST ARCADE

Can Can Wonderland

Dave & Busters

The Burrow

BEST DESTINATION PLAYGROUND

Hyland Park Reserve

Shoreview Commons

Elm Creek Park Reserve

BEST FAMILY RESORT

Great Wolf Lodge u

Grand View Lodge

Breezy Point Resort

BEST TRAMPOLINE PARK

Sky Zone Trampoline Park

Urban Air Adventure Park

Lava Island

BEST ZOO

Minnesota Zoo

BEST SPLASH PAD

Madison’s Place Playground

Nicollet Commons Park

Oak Hill Park

BEST NATURE CENTER

Tamarack Nature Center

Dodge Nature Center

Westwood Hills Nature Center

BEST INDOOR WATER PARK

Great Wolf Lodge Water Park

Tropics Indoor Waterpark and Bamboo Bay

Treasure Island Resort Water Park

BEST FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT CENTER

Grand Slam Sports Center

Urban Air Adventure Park

The Fun Lab

BEST FAMILY AMUSEMENT PARK Valleyfair

FAMILY FAVORITES

ENTERTAINMENT

BEST ART STUDIO

Color Me Mine u

Kidcreate Studio v

ARTrageous Adventures w

BEST PLACES TO SEE TRAINS

North Shore Scenic Railway u

Twin Cities Model Railway Museum v

Union Depot w

BEST OUTDOOR WATER PARK

Bunker Beach Water Park u

Cascade Bay Water Park v

Soak City at ValleyFair w

BEST APPLE ORCHARD

Minnesota Harvest Apple Orchard u

Afton Apple Orchard v

Aamodt’s Apple Farm w

BEST INDOOR PLAY SPACE FOR YOUNGER KIDS

MiniSota Play Cafe u

Peekabooboo Play Cafe v Play Date w

BEST BOWLING ALLEY

Bowleroo u

Pinstripes v

TIE - PINZ Bowling Center & Bryant Lake Bowl and Theater w

BEST FAMILY CAMPGROUND

Lebanon Hills Regional Park-Campground u

Kamp Dels v

Wildwood Campground

BEST CHILDREN’S BIRTHDAY PARTY VENUE

TIE - Mall of America, Urban Air Adventure, Grand Slam

Sky Zone Trampoline Park

The Fun Lab w

BEST CHRISTMAS TREE FARM

Krueger’s Christmas Tree Farm u

Rum River Tree Farm v

Hansen Tree Farm w

Edinborough Park

Good Times Park

The K.U.B.E.

AMC Theater

Emagine Movie Theater

Mann Theater

Pinehaven Farm

Dehn’s Pumpkin Patch

Spirit

Children’s Theatre

FAMILY FAVORITES

BEST PIZZA SPOT

Pizza Luce u

Pizza Ranch v

Punch Pizza w

BEST COFFEE SHOP

The Fox and Pantry u

Smith Coffee & Cafe v

Annabelle House w

BEST DONUT SHOP

Glam Doll Donuts u

Uffda Donuts v

Duck Donuts w

BEST KID’S EAT FREE RESTAURANT

Willy McCoys u

Sunshine Factory v

Tamarack Taproom w

BEST FAMILY-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT

Snuffy’s Malt Shop u

Rainforest Cafe v

Pizza Ranch w

BEST FAMILY-FRIENDLY BREWERY

St Paul Brewing Company u

Forgotten Star Brewery v

Elm Creek Brewing w

BEST CANDY SHOP

Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store u Candyland v

Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop w

BEST BAKERY

Nadia’s Cupcake Shoppe u

Key’s Cafe and Bakery v

Yum! Kitchen & Bakery w

BEST ICE CREAM SHOPPE

Nelson’s Ice Cream u

Sebastian Joe’s Ice Cream Shop v

Grand Ole Creamery w Discover South Loop’s public art with the Otocast app!

FAMILY FAVORITES

26 Things to do in 2026

Developmental Evaluation for Infants & Toddlers

If your baby or toddler is missing physical milestones, moving unevenly, or developing differently, getting answers early matters sometimes more than families realize.

At Gillette Children’s Developmental Evaluation Clinic, we help families understand what’s happening sooner, when early treatment can have the greatest impact.

Early evaluation matters because a child’s brain is most adaptable in the first few years of life. Identifying physical developmental differences as soon as possible can improve long term movement, function, and confidence.

1 - 3 mo nt h s

B r i n g s h a n d s to m o u t h

C a n l i ft h e a d a n d c h e s t

w h e n l y i n g o n s to m a c h

S h o w s i n te re s t i n

- 6 mo nt h s

o b j e c t s a n d fa ce s 6 - 9

ro

Don’t panic if your child doesn’t reach a specific milestone by a certain age. All children develop differently.

I f s o m e t h i n g d o e s n’ t fe e l

r i g h t , i t ’s wo r t h c h e c k i n g

e a r l y. A n e a r l y eva l u a t i o n c a n

p rov i d e e i t h e r re a s s u ra n ce o r

a c l e a r p l a n .

Signs to Trust Your Instincts

Consider an evaluation if you notice:

Missed or delayed milestones, especially in sitting, crawling, or walking

Stiff or floppy muscle tone

Uneven movement or posture

Persistent head lag or fisted hands

Early hand preference (before 12 months)

9 - 1 2 mo nt h s

C r a w l s

Loss of previously learned motor skills 1 8 mo nt h s

1 2 - 1 8 mo nt h s

P u l l s s e l f i n to

s t a n d i n g p o s i t i o n

I m i t a te s s o u n d s

a n d g e s t u re s

KE Y 15 MONTH

MILESTONE :

One Visit. One Team. Clear Direction.

Three convenient locations in Maple Grove, Burnsville, and St. Paul Minnesota. Instead of months of separate appointments, your child is seen in one coordinated visit by a specialist team that may include:

A pediatric neurologist

A pediatric rehabilitation medicine physician

A pediatric physical or occupational therapist

Together, they evaluate your child’s movement, muscle tone, and development so you spend less time waiting and more time moving forward.

Take the Next Step

Make an appointment with the Gillette Children’s Developmental Evaluation Clinic

Call: 651‐290‐8707

Learn more: gillette.mn/gillette-dev-eval

Nickelodeon Universe

Located inside the Mall of America, there are 25+ rides and activities featuring popular Nickelodeon characters, entertainment stages, and dining options. Toddlers and their families enjoy free entertainment and activities from 10 a.m. to noon once a month at Toddler Tuesdays. Bloomington • nickelodeonuniverse.com

Valleyfair

Valleyfair boasts 75+ rides and attractions! Rides come in different shapes, sizes, and speeds (from roller coasters to swings). On hot, sunny days, pack your swimsuits and cool off at Soak City Waterpark, featuring even more splish-splashin’ family fun! Shakopee • valleyfair.com

Como Town

This urban outdoor amusement park, adjacent to the Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, is designed for children ages 2 to 12. It features 15+ kiddie rides. Plus, a Hodge Podge Park in spring and summer. Seasonal experiences are also offered for even more kid-approved fun!

St. Paul • comotown.com

Paul Bunyan Land

An amusement park, museum, and campground all in one! It’s home to the largest talking animated man in America, Paul Bunyan (who greets kids by name!).

Amusement park-style rides for all ages, including a merry-go-round, Ferris wheel, space shuttle, and more.

Brainerd • paulbunyanland.com

SCAN FOR AMUSEMENT PARKS

Adventure

ANIMAL EXPERIENCES, FARMS, & ZOOS

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory

One of the last free zoos in the U.S., Como Park Zoo is open 365 days a year. It is home to many animals and plants. Additional features include Cafesjian’s historic carousel and the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory. A donation is optional but highly encouraged. St. Paul • comozooconservatory.org

International Owl Center

Families love meeting the owls and seeing them fly. Explore informational displays and attend special events. Just steps away is a natural play area. Featuring buried fossils, stone tunnels, a willow forest, and more!

Houston • internationalowlcenter.org

International Wolf Center

The center features several observation windows to look in on their ambassador pack (featuring 5 wolves). The center also features a museum, daily educational programs, an indoor toddler play area, and a gift shop. Ely • wolf.org

SCAN FOR ANIMAL EXPERIENCES, FARMS, AND ZOOS

Minnesota Zoo

View a wide variety of animals indoors and out, including penguins, bison, otters, tapirs, bears, birds, leopards, tigers, fruit bats, and lemurs. Plus, many marine animals in the Discovery Bay exhibit, including sharks, rays, and fish. In February, check out the annual Tropical Beach Party with a super-sized indoor sandbox. In April, families can also visit the Farm Babies.

Apple Valley • mnzoo.org

SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium

More than 10,000 sea creatures live beneath the Mall of America in several interactive exhibits, including a 300-foot-long underwater glass tunnel. As you walk through, you’ll be surrounded by stingrays, sharks, sea turtles, and more.

Bloomington • visitsealife.com/minnesota

Snake Discovery

Snake Discovery offers fun and educational reptile programs at area schools, birthday parties, scouts, and libraries. You can also learn about reptiles on their kid-friendly YouTube channel!

Maplewood • snakediscovery.com

ANIMAL EXPERIENCES, FARMS, & ZOOS

The Raptor Center

Learn all about hawks, falcons, owls, eagles, and other raptors. The Raptor Center rehabilitates more than 700 sick and injured raptors each year. Pre-registration for tours is strongly encouraged. St. Paul • raptor.umn.edu

Safari North Wildlife Park

Safari North Wildlife Park features more than 150 species from six continents. The park also offers an amusement park with rides for all ages, giraffe feedings, and a petting zoo. You can also treat your kids to fresh-squeezed lemonade, mini doughnuts, and funnel cakes. Brainerd • safarinorth.com

Farmamerica

This 360-acre living history museum honors Minnesota’s farming heritage. Take a guided tram tour to view a country church, a feed mill, and a blacksmith shop. Visit the 1930s Dairy Farm to see farm animals like pigs, cows, and sheep. Farm baby events are available in the spring!

Waseca • farmamerica.org

Wildlife Science Center

Meet wolves, bears, foxes, bobcats, coyotes, lynx, and raptors in a living classroom designed for student groups and other visitors. The Wildlife Science Center is home to Minnesota’s largest wolf pack! Stacy • wildlifesciencecenter.org

Dodge Nature Center

Miles of trails through prairies, forests, and wetlands. See animals on the working farm and birds in the raptor mews. They also offer a variety of free/low-cost programs for all ages. West St. Paul, Mendota Heights & Cottage Grove • DodgeNatureCenter.org

Hemker Zoo

Located 90 miles north of the Twin Cities Metro Hemker Park & Zoo is one of Minnesota’s premier zoo experiences—both for animals and people of all ages. It features over 20 animals, including rhinos, zebras, takin, and more. This seasonal zoo is open May - October.

Freeport • hemkerzoo.com

Great Lakes Aquarium

This North Shore aquarium inspires people to explore habitats found in Lake Superior and the Great Lakes. Experience two floors of live animal displays, hands-on interactive exhibits, an indoor playground for toddlers, and stunning views of the waterfront and twin ports. Duluth • glaquarium.org

Working organic farm on Whaletail Lake, where you can observe farm animals like cattle and sheep. Families can attend events, take tours, purchase fresh food and yarn, have a picnic by the lake, and participate in skill-based classes.Educational programs and camps are available for kids of all ages. Minnetrista • tinyurl.com/galewoods

Gibbs Farm

Experience pioneer and Dakota life through festivals, farm tours featuring animals, and interactive chore days on the farm and in the orchard. Engaging community events, often led by costumed interpreters, share the rich history of the Gibbs family and the land.

St. Paul • rchs.com

Oliver H. Kelley Farm

Step into a working farm and barn (filled with cute animals!). Pick fresh vegetables and see what’s cooking inside the Kelley farmhouse. Costumed guides work the fields with oxen and horses.

Elk River • mnhs.org/kelleyfarm

Sustainable Safari

Located within the Maplewood and Burnsville Malls, this family-owned animal adventure works to educate the public through safe animal encounters. Maplewood & Burnsville sustainablesafari.net

APPLE ORCHARDS

Minnesota Harvest Apple Orchard

Let kids pick-your-own apples and pumpkins at this family-owned orchard. They also offer numerous activities in Apple Blossom Park. Spend the day in the giant corn maze, jumping in the corn pit, trying the apple cannons, and riding the cow train! Grab an apple cider donut, too!

Jordan • fergusonsorchard.com

Afton Apple Orchard

This family-owned orchard spans over 250 acres in the scenic St. Croix Valley. Pick your own apples, pumpkins, and fall raspberries. A 15-acre corn maze, petting farm, Straw Mountain, and a giant playground. Enjoy fresh apple cider, donuts, and more.

Afton • aftonapple.com

Aamodt’s Apple Farm

Expect a full day of fun with pick-your-own apples, wagon rides, and a charming goat farm at this family-owned orchard. Families also love the swing set and Honeycrisp Express barrel train. Stay for lunch to try Aamodt’s famous Apple Brats and fresh apple pies.

Stillwater • aamodtsapplefarm.com

Minnetonka Orchards

Fall activities begin in mid-August, including hayrides and Halloween events. Visitors can also enjoy nature trails, a play train, and an animal barn.

Minnetrista • minnetonkaorchardmn.com

Pine Tree Apple Orchard

This orchard offers weekend wagon rides and a corn maze. Pick your own pumpkins, a large variety of apples, homemade bakery products, caramel apples, fresh cider, gifts, and more. White Bear Lake pinetreeappleorchard.com

Apple Jack Orchards

You’ll find more than just apple picking here! Explore a corn maze, enjoy wagon rides, and let the kids conquer the ropes course and spider web. Plus, there are over a dozen fun farm attractions, including Farm Ball, Gaga Ball, and the Wooden Train Climber.

Delano • applejackorchards.com

LuceLine Orchard

Pick apples, climb Hay Mountain, and navigate the 30-acre corn maze. Kids will also love the Bee Train, Pony Rides, and Zip Lines. Don’t miss the mouthwatering treats and live music!

Watertown • lucelineorchard.com

AppleHouse at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

The AppleHouse is a treasure trove of Minnesota-grown apples, including varieties from the Arboretum’s own Horticultural Research Center. Attend the annual Apple Fest to enjoy apple-themed activities like bobbing for apples and an apple-peeling contest!

Chaska • arb.umn.edu/AppleHouse

Deer Lake Orchard

Enjoy a family-run orchard with a diverse range of activities and free admission for everyone. Families can enjoy a leisurely wagon ride, jumping pillow, corn maze, and pedal carts.

Buffalo • deerlakeorchard.com

Pleasant Valley Orchard

This charming, family-run orchard offers pick-your-own apples, pumpkins, and mouthwatering baked goods. Enjoy scenic hayrides, apple slushies, and live music on weekends.

Shafer • pleasantvalleyorchard.com

providing high quality preschool programs

The Kinderberry Hill Preschool childcare program is thoughtfully designed to support children’s growing curiosity about the world around them.

Our Minnesota childcare centers provide a safe, cozy, and comfortable environment that feels much more like home than a classroom.

the Unique advantages of kinderberry hill

Year-Round Outdoor Classrooms

Large Indoor Gym & Atelier

On-Site Nurse

Small Group Sizes

Sign Language Curriculum STEAM Curriculum

Spanish Curriculum

On-Site Chef

ART STUDIOS

The Art Academy

Kids and adults are invited to learn drawing, painting, origami, sculpture, and more in private or group lessons. Lessons emphasize technical skills and the creative process.

St. Paul • theartacademy.net

ARTrageous Adventures

ARTrageous is a full-service art studio offering creative programming for all ages. Its mission is to “unleash your creative power by connecting with yourself, your community, and the diversity of the world!”

ARTrageous offers a variety of themed camps and events, such as Flower Power and Cosmic Creations.

Minneapolis • artrageousadventures.com

Color Me Mine

Kids can unleash their inner artist by painting a variety of ceramics, from mugs to figurines. Parents can join in the fun, too! After painting, the studio glazes and fires your child’s masterpiece (ready for pick-up in about a week). It’s an easy, no-mess way to enjoy an art project with the whole family. Eagan, Maple Grove & Woodbury colormemine.com

Kidcreate Studio

These local studios specialize in children’s art classes, camps, and art-themed birthday parties for ages 18 months to 12 years. Kids can create fridge-worthy masterpieces while learning art concepts and experimenting with different materials.

Eden Prairie & Woodbury kidcreatestudio.com

Kidz Art

Attend classes, camps, or workshops that teach everything from art appreciation to easy-to-learn drawing skills. Programs emphasize creative thinking and problem-solving.

Twin Cities • nwmpls.kidzart.com

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Family FUN at the Walker ART Center

Spoonbridge and Cherry is just the beginning. Explore more inside during our monthly familyfriendly programs:

Free First Saturday

Enjoy FREE gallery admission and art-making on the first Saturday of every month. 10 am–5 pm

Sensory Friendly Sunday

Explore the museum for FREE with a calm environment on the second Sunday of every month. 8–11 am

Plus, youth ages 18 and under always get free admission. Plan your visit! Reserve tickets at walkerart.org.

Free First Saturday is sponsored by

Family Programs are supported by the KHR McNeely Family Foundation, thanks to Kevin, Rosemary, and Hannah Rose McNeely.

This project is made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Lead support for the Walker’s Learning and Public Programs is provided by the Pohlad Family Community Engagement Fund.

Northern Clay Center

This clay center offers fun ways to keep your kids engaged in ceramics. They offer summer camps, an after-school clay club, a weekly Teen Boot Camp, one-day workshops for families, and take-home camp kits. MInneapolis • northernclaycenter.org

Rum River Art Center

They celebrate the individual potential of all artists by exploring multiple art media. They focus on enhancing creativity, talents, and passions through painting, pottery, and more!

Anoka • rumriverart.com

The Mess Hall

Mess Hall is the place for hands-on messy art experiences, where creative dreams come true! Their specialty is messy art (you know, the kind of art you don’t want to do at home!). Check out their fun art experiences for birthday parties and other one-of-a-kind kids’ art programs.

Hopkins • messhallmn.com

Tinker + Nudge

They offer art classes, workshops, playdates, birthday parties, and camps where kids are encouraged to explore a wide range of materials and techniques, including sculpture, printmaking, collage, drawing, and painting. Be prepared to get messy and have fun!

Minneapolis • tinkerandnudge.com

BOOKSTORES

Barnes and Noble

Located throughout the Twin Cities, this is one of the largest bookstores in Minnesota. It offers a robust, dedicated children’s section with small tables with trains and other small toys. Plus, they have a cafe on-site. You can grab a coffee and a snack while you snuggle up with a new book. Twin Cities Metro Area barnesandnoble.com

Wild Rumpus

This dedicated children’s bookstore offers a whimsical mix of books (alongside its furry and feathered friends!). Discover several nooks and crannies to search for the store’s resident animals and cuddle up with their new books. They offer books in many global languages, too. Minneapolis • wildrumpusbooks.com

The

Red Balloon

Red Balloon is an independent and woman-owned children’s bookstore. It is loved for its children’s author visits and storytimes. It is located on historic Grand Avenue in Saint Paul. Saint Paul • redballoonbookshop.com

Birchbark Books & Native Arts

Birchbark Books & Native Arts is an eco-chic, independent bookstore offering hand-picked titles for all ages, including Native American books and crafts. It specializes in books about indigenous peoples and cultures. They have a tiny loft and a “hobbit hole” for children to enjoy. Minneapolis • birchbarkbooks.com

The Irreverent Bookworm

The Irreverent Bookworm is an independently owned bookstore in south Minneapolis. Careful consideration is given to curating their diverse selection of books, including those in the cozy kids’ room. Minneapolis • irrevbooks.com

Excelsior Bay Books

Excelsior Bay Books is just a short walk from Lake Minnetonka in Excelsior. This location makes reading and picnicking along the lake easy and fun! They also have a section just for teens.

Excelsior • excelsiorbaybooks.net

The Thinking Spot

The Thinking Spot is intentionally designed to encourage reading, reflection, conversation, and connection. It focuses specifically on offering science-themed books for kids and adults. Wayzata • thethinkingspot.us

Summer Adventures Start at the Library

Join Twin Cities PBS and your friends from Hero Elementary and Skillsville for hands-on activities at the library all summer long.

Learn more at TPT.org/events

Fair Trade Books

A charming used book store in downtown Red Wing. It offers a broad selection of puzzles and books for kids and adults. First-time visitors are gifted a free book to take home.

Red Wing • fairtradebooksrw.com

Zenith Bookstore

Colorful murals, high ceilings, and trendy exposed bricks make this vibrant bookstore a warm and inviting spot. Kids adore the quirky and fun layout when browsing for books or games.

Duluth • zenithbookstore.com

Drury Lane Books

Cherry Street Books

This independently owned bookstore in the heart of downtown Alexandria has

Bowlero

Six Twin Cities locations, including Blaine, Bloomington, Brooklyn Park, and St. Paul. Features premium bowling lanes, online reservations, arcades, laser tag, and billiards. On-site dining includes a kids’ menu. Great for fun family outings across the metro! Twin Cities • bowlero.com

Cedarvale Lanes

Eagan bowling alley with 32 lanes, a pro shop, and the Incred-A-Bowl music and light show. It also features pool tables, darts, and arcade games. On-site dining at Fitz’s Bar and Grill includes a kids’ menu.

Eagan • cedarvalelanes.com

Town Hall Lanes

This cozy 10-lane bowling alley in Minneapolis’ Nokomis neighborhood is a local gem. The alley features automatic bumpers, a full-service pub, and craft beers from Town Hall Brewery. The menu is family-friendly, with a kids’ section. You can eat alleyside for uninterrupted play. Minneapolis • thlanes.com

Bryant-Lake Bowl

This is a vintage 1950s-style 8-lane bowling alley in Uptown Minneapolis. There are no leagues, ensuring open play all week. This funky spot features bumpers, affordable pricing, and a full restaurant with vegan and vegetarian options. It is also home to a theater for live performances! Minneapolis • bryantlakebowl.com

BOWLING ALLEYS

Memory Lanes

A retro-modern bowling alley in South Minneapolis with 30 lanes, bumpers, and cosmic bowling nights. Families can enjoy a full menu with a dedicated kids’ section. In summer, outdoor sand volleyball and block parties add to the fun. Becomes 21+ after 10 PM.

Minneapolis • memorylanes.com

Sun Ray Lanes

Saint Paul bowling alley with 24 lanes, bumpers, ramps, and kid-friendly ball sizes—it’s designed to make bowling fun for all ages and abilities. They offer adaptive bowling programs for inclusive fun for all.

On-site dining at Pub 300 features a full menu and a Small Appetites section. They also have an arcade for added entertainment. Online reservations are available.

St. Paul • tripleshift.com/sun-ray-lanes

Park Tavern

This bowling alley in St. Louis Park offers 20 lanes, an arcade, and on-site dining. Offers open bowling daily, plus weekly events like bingo. The family-friendly menu includes options for kids and seniors.

St. Louis Park • parktavern.net

Blainbrook Entertainment Center

Blaine’s pinball hotspot with over 40 games! All ages game play, including everything from the classic pinball machines to the latest virtual reality games. Plus, pool tables and darts. Blainbrook Entertainment Center also features game cards that you can save and reload.

Blaine • blainbrookbowl.com

BOWLING ALLEYS

Tuttle’s Eat Bowl Play

This Hopkins bowling alley has 24 lanes, automatic scoring, bumpers, and cosmic bowling. Plus, an arcade with classic and modern games. On-site dining offers gourmet burgers, prime rib, and kid-friendly options. Participates in the summer “Kids Bowl Free” program! Hopkins • tuttlesbowling.com

PINZ Bowling Center

This bowling alley has 34 lanes, automatic scoring, bumpers, ramps, and Galaxy Bowling (with vibrant lights and surround sound!). They also offer laser tag, arcade games, and VIP suites for parties. Features a “Kids Bowl Free” program in the summer. Dining options include a full menu and a Small Appetites section. Accessible facilities and adaptive programs are available. Oakdale • tripleshift.com/pinz

Bogart’s Entertainment Center

This family-owned bowling alley in Apple Valley offers 24 modern lanes, bumpers, and ramps. The summer “Kids Bowl Free” program is offered to kids 15 and under. On-site dining at Back Alley Tavern with a kids’ menu. Also features arcade games, live music, and outdoor sand volleyball. Apple Valley bogartsentertainmentcenter.com

Pinstripes

Edina venue offering bowling, bocce, and Italian-American dining. It features wood-fired pizzas, pasta, and a kids’ menu with seasonal gelato. Both indoor and outdoor seating are available. Reservations are recommended for bowling or bocce. This is a fun, family-friendly spot with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Edina • pinstripes.com/edina

Please share! Once you are done reading, please share it with your friends, family and/or co-workers! Thank you.

COFFEE SHOPS WITH PLAY AREAS

Rebe’s Play Cafe

Saint Paul coffee shop with a spacious playroom for kids ages 0-8. Enjoy delicious coffee, snacks, and treats while your children freely explore the play area. Hosts language classes and family events. A welcoming spot for parents to relax or work while kids have fun.

St. Paul • rebesplaycafe.com

Sovereign Grounds

This coffee shop features a spacious playroom for toddlers and young kids. Parents can relax with house-made coffee, tea, and delicious baked goods while their children enjoy the play area. This community hub in Minneapolis offers affordable snacks and a welcoming environment. Minneapolis • sovereigngrounds.com

Community Grounds

Columbia Heights coffee shop with a spacious play area for kids (located in a backroom). Enjoy Corner Coffee beans, Mrs. Kelly’s Tea, Heights Bakery pastries, and customizable breakfast sandwiches. A relaxed atmosphere with affordable prices makes it a perfect spot for parents and little ones to enjoy a casual outing.

Columbia Heights facebook.com/CommunityGroundsMN

Corner Coffee Camden

This Minneapolis café has a cozy, family-friendly vibe. Enjoy carefully sourced coffee, sandwiches, and freshly baked goods while your kids play in the backroom with a mock barista setup, books, and a playhouse. It’s perfect for a relaxed outing with little ones!

Minneapolis • corner.coffee.com

Black Sheep Coffee Café

This family-friendly café offers houseroasted coffee, organic sandwiches, and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. It also features toys for kids and comfy armchairs (ideal for nursing moms). Enjoy local art and a laid-back vibe at this family-owned gem!

South St. Paul • blacksheepcoffee.com

Owl’s Nest Cafe

A lovely café in downtown Jordan serving coffee, baked goods, and food. Enjoy vintage vibes in a historic building, shop at the Blossom children’s boutique, and explore the free Nest Play area with Montessori-inspired toys. Fun for families with kids of all ages!

Jordan • owlsnestcafe.com

Compassion Coffee

A casual cafe with a welcoming space and a mission to provide employment, skills-training, and resources for people affected by homelessness. They offer coffee and tea with pastries from a local bakery. Kids can play in the area created just for them, which includes a cute coffee cart!

Anoka • compassioncoffeemn.com

MiniSota Play Café

MiniSota Play Café offers a fun, imaginative play area for kids with a café for parents to enjoy coffee. Kids can explore mini-worlds like a grocery store and hospital, while adults relax with a drink. A cover charge for kids applies, with socks required for entry.

Maple Grove • minisotaplaycafe.com

New in the Minneapolis Area!

CENTERS CONVENIENTLY LOCATED IN CHAMPLIN, RAMSEY & PRIOR LAKE

ENROLLING INFANT, TODDLER & PRE-K PROGRAMS

• Extended hours

• Seedlings® Early Childhood Education Curriculum

• STREAM, Yoga & Mindfulness, Sign Language, Spanish, and Music included

• Parent eCommunication app

• Interactive whiteboards and iPad technology

• Enhanced health & safety protocols with air purification and filtration

• ParentView® Internet Monitoring

• State-of-the-art security systems

FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT CENTERS & ARCADES

The Burrow

Discover a wide selection of arcade games at both locations. From virtual reality and single and multiplayer games to a wide selection of pinball games, this is an excellent spot for a fun family day out! Pickleball, axe-throwing (age 11+), minigolf, excellent food and drinks, and even more family-friendly shenanigans are the hallmarks of The Burrow. Activities vary by location.

Oakdale & Victoria • theburrowmn.com

Dave and Busters

With hundreds of games to play, the whole family will be entertained for hours. This arcade and restaurant is filled with classics like Pac-Man and skee-ball. Plus, you’ll find a new favorite game every time you go since new games are added regularly.

Maple Grove & Edina • daveandbusters.com

Sky Zone Trampoline Park

Jump around on interconnected trampolines. Play trampoline dodgeball. Take on an obstacle course. Littles can enjoy a toddler-only zone by jumping into foam-block pits.

Twin Cities • skyzone.com/locations

Zero Gravity Adventure Park

Zero Gravity Adventure Park offers high-energy fun for all ages, including an open jump, dodgeball, a foam pit, and an arcade. Test your skills on the Aerial Ninja Obstacle Course or jump into a heart-pumping trampoline arena. Don’t miss the intergalactic-themed laser tag! Mounds View • zerogravitymn.com

Smash Park

Smash Park offers a variety of indoor and outdoor games, including classic arcade games, pickleball, duckpin bowling, cornhole, and giant Jenga. With a large menu, including a kids’ menu, it’s perfect for fun family outings. Check for 21+ hours. Game reservations available. Roseville • smashpark.com

Grand Slam Family Fun Center

This local favorite in Coon Rapids offers a fun-filled experience with mini golf, bumper cars, arcade games, and a ninja course. Enjoy the Roman Colosseum-themed Play Zone, 360-degree VR gaming, batting cages, and more. You can also order yummy bites from the diverse menu while you play— perfect for all ages.

Coon Rapids • grandslamcoonrapids.com

The Fun Lab

The Fun Lab boasts amazing attractions not found anywhere else, including one-of-a-kind birthday experiences and fantastic food—all under one roof! Spend the day going from bumper cars and laser tag to a ropes course and virtual reality experiences.

Blaine • thefunlabcenter.com

Ninjas United

Obstacle courses for kids of all abilities and ages 6+. Ninjas United promotes confidence through fun challenges. Participants can go at their own pace and tackle various obstacles in a welcoming, inclusive environment. Open Gym sessions do not require a membership.

Maple Grove • ninjasunited.com

FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT CENTERS & ARCADES

WhirlyBall Twin Cities

With two metro locations, WhirlyBall offers a thrilling experience for families with tweens and teens, featuring bumper cars, arcade games, laser tag, and Escape Rooms. Enjoy food and drinks while competing in action-packed games like WhirlyBall (a mix of basketball, hockey, and lacrosse). Each location offers its own mix of activities. Maple Grove & Bloomington whirlyballtwincities.com

The Fair on 4

Located in the Mall of America, The Fair on 4 offers year-round fun with fair-inspired foods like corn dogs and cheese curds. Families with tweens and teens can enjoy activities like go-karts, axe throwing (ages 11+), and other games. Becomes 18+ after 9 p.m. on Fridays & Saturdays. Bloomington • thefairon4.com

Urban Air Adventure Park

This adventure park includes trampolines, an indoor zip line, a ropes course, climbing walls, a warrior-style obstacle course, a battle-beam foam pit, a play structure, go-karts, an arcade, concessions, and more with locations across the Twin Cities. 3 Twin Cities Locations urbanairtrampolinepark.com

Nowhere Entertainment

Nowhere Entertainment offers unforgettable experiences, from thrilling escape rooms and a spooky year-round haunted house (low-scare option available) to mini golf and an exciting arcade. Enjoy unique escape room themes like a pirate adventure or a glowing circus. Don’t forget to grab a bite at the concession stand, which offers pizza, hot dogs, and snacks! Inver Grove Heights nowhereentertainmentcenter.com

FREE FAMILY FUN

Toddler Tuesdays at MOA

Toddlers and their families can enjoy free entertainment, including special character appearances, story times, crafts, and more. Plus, great deals at various locations around the Mall of America, including free kids’ meals offered on select Tuesdays just for toddlers!

Bloomington • mallofamerica.com

Family Day at MIA

The Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) offers free admission for all ages to explore its galleries and exhibits every day. On the second Sunday of every month, visitors can also enjoy free family-friendly storytelling, gallery hunts, performances, and art projects. Minneapolis • artsmia.org

Eastman Nature Center

This large nature center is a great spot to see local wildlife with kids. It features quiet reading and observation rooms, large classrooms, a wildlife viewing area, an open-air deck, coffee service, and an after-hours restroom. For more local nature centers, visit mnparent.com/nature. Dayton • tinyurl.com/eastmannature

Free First Saturdays at the Walker Art Center

Gallery admission is free on the first Saturday of each month, which features family-friendly live performances, films, gallery adventures, and hands-on artmaking (with an emphasis on ages 6 to 12). Admission is always free for ages 18 & under, and to the adjacent Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. Bonus: Free admission for all is also available every Thursday night from 5-9 p.m. Minneapolis • walkerart.org

Tamarack Nature Center

The Discovery Hollow Nature Play Area lets you run wild in nature. Walk along turf, paved, and boardwalk trails to explore forests, prairies, ponds, and a natural play area.

White Bear Township tinyurl.com/ramseycoparks

Saturday Vibes at Our Local Libraries!

See something new every Saturday (magicians, puppets, wild animals, storytellers, and more) at the George Latimer Central Library. Other St. Paul library locations also host summer reading programs and activities for all ages. Check Hennepin, Dakota, and Ramsey county library systems for even more free family events at locations across the Twin Cities. St. Paul • sppl.org

Schubert

Club Music Museum

This music museum, located on the second floor of the Landmark Center in downtown St. Paul, inspires, educates, and entertains visitors as they navigate the galleries. Visitors can hear and play instruments from around the globe, either hands-on or through innovative technologies.

St Paul • schubert.org

Open Eye Theatre Driveway Tour

Open Eye Figure Theatre performs puppet shows in backyards, front yards, parks, and driveways, bringing communities together with original, family-friendly theater. All Driveway Tour performances are free and open to the public.

Twin Cities • openeyetheatre.org

Sundays at Landmark

St. Paul’s historic community in the heart of downtown offers a variety of free, all-ages activities on select Sundays throughout the year, including multicultural music and dance performances. Plus, an Urban Expedition series that helps children learn about cultures from around the globe. Most events are free and open to the public.

St. Paul • landmarkcenter.org

Westwood Hills Nature Center

Get away from the bustle of the city in this 160-acre natural area featuring a marsh, woods, a restored prairie, and a nature-inspired play area.

St. Louis Park • westwoodhillsnaturecenter.org

Music & Movies in the Parks: St. Paul

St. Paul’s outdoor summer concert and film series will feature family-friendly events at parks around St. Paul, including Mears Park, Rice Park, and Como Park & Como Lakeside Pavilion. Most performances are free for all ages. Events are offered all summer long.

St. Paul • stpaul.gov/musicintheparks

Free Sundays at Minnesota Children’s Museum

Admission is free on select Sundays at the Minnesota Children’s Museum. Ticket reservations for this event sell out quickly. Mark your calendar and reserve your free tickets.

St. Paul • mcm.org

Music & Movies in the Parks: Minneapolis

Attend free outdoor concerts at several Minneapolis locations (Memorial Day through Labor Day), including Nicollet Island Park, Minnehaha Bandstand, Bryant Square Park, and Lake Harriet Bandshell. Concerts feature everything from swing, folk, and rock to bluegrass and classical. Plus, movies for all ages run at more than 30 parks from June through August.

Minneapolis tinyurl.com/mplsmusicintheparks

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Want a little practice before taking a trip? Buckle up.

The Navigating MSP Airport program was created in partnership with the Fraser organization to allow people to practice unique airport experiences— including security screening, boarding and fastening your seatbelt—before you fly. Thinking forward. Rising above.

Learn more about Accessibility at MSP.

INDOOR PLAYGROUNDS

Edinborough Park

Numerous slides, tunnels, and a 30foot-tall play structure are at the heart of this hugely popular indoor park, which also boasts a dedicated toddler area. There is also an amphitheater, a snack bar, a pool, and a fitness center on site. Edina • edinboroughpark.com

The Blast

Check out several space-themed climbing structures at this Eagan Community Center attraction. Play equipment caters to ages 18 months to 12 years.

Eagan • cityofeagan.com/blast

Backyard Indoor Playground

This multi-level, indoor play area is located in Golden Valley’s Brookview Community Center. Play spaces include a main area designed for ages 2–12. There is a separate area for ages 2–5. Brookview also offers lawn bowling, golf, a park, tennis courts, and disc golf. There is also a family-friendly bar and grill located on-site near the play area. Golden Valley • brookviewbackyard.com

Little North Playland

Explore a 2-story jungle gym, interactive ball wall, rotating merry-go-round, infant area, trampoline, rock wall, track with cars, and multiple houses filled with imaginary play! Isanti • .littlenorthplayland.com

Lookout Ridge Indoor Playground

Indoor playground for kids 12 and under. Kids can climb through cliffs, forests, and a treehouse (modeled after scenes from the St. Croix River Valley). It is located on the lower level of Woodbury Central Park’s main building. Woodbury • woodburylookoutridge.com

InnerActive Playground

Activities for all ages are available at this climate-controlled facility, including a large playground area for older children, a separate area for ages 5 and under, a kangaroo jumper, a basketball court, a turf field, and large building blocks from Imagination Playground. Plus, there is a cafeteria with vending machines. Open 365 days a year. Equipment may vary by location. Plymouth & Mounds View inneractiveplayground.com

Good Times Park

This large, family-owned indoor playground includes play structures, a basketball court, a turf field, a 38-foot inflatable jumper, and a buildatorium construction zone. Day passes and memberships are available. Open daily with family-friendly hours. Woodbury & Eagan goodtimespark.com

SCAN FOR INDOOR PLAY AREAS

INDOOR PLAYGROUNDS

Maple Maze Indoor Playground

Explore a playhouse, tunnels, a rock wall, hopping pogo sticks, and a swirling slide for ages 12 and younger. Plus, a toddler area for ages 3 and younger.

Maple Grove • tinyurl.com/maplemaze-mn

Play Date

Located in Carver County, Play Date specializes in gross motor play for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. Offering high-quality playscapes, creative activities, and a safe, fun environment for children and caregivers. Available for weekly play dates and birthday parties.

Chaska • playdatemn.com

Peekabooboos

This one-of-a-kind play space is filled with so many exciting things to do! Relax in their unique sensory room. Let your child’s imagination run wild in the playhouses. Enjoy the indoor playground structure. And, even diving into a fun ball pit.

Albertville • peekabooboosplaycafe.com

Playground Plaza

This self-serve membership-based facility is open 365 days a year. It features a large play structure, a jumping pillow, an artificial turf field, and building blocks from Imagination Playground. They also have a cafe area and a reservable party room.

Maple Grove • playgroundplaza.com

Avery’s Adventure

This one-of-a-kind indoor playground inspires creativity and imagination in children of all ages. Avery’s Adventures provides families with a safe and stimulating environment where children can explore, learn, and grow. Elk River • averysadventures.com

Slick City Action Park

Slick City Action Park brings year-round thrills to the Twin Cities! This indoor park features huge, patented dry slides, air courts for basketball and dodgeball, a zipline, a trapeze, and a five-level soft play area.

Woodbury & Maple Grove • slickcity.com

INDOOR PLAYGROUNDS

The K.U.B.E. at the Plymouth Community Center

The Kids Ultimate Backyard Experience (K.U.B.E.) Indoor Playground is an accessible play area designed to bring outdoor fun indoors! Features ramps, slides, climbing towers, playhouses, and other structures. The K.U.B.E. also features a 28-foot-tall tower with netting and a spiral slide, activity spinners, and a basket swing. Designed for kids ages 2-12. Plymouth tinyurl.com/plymouthcommunitycenter

Tropical Adventure Indoor Playground

Let kids get their wiggles out in this twostory, jungle-themed playground located inside the Shoreview Community Center. Features a five-level spiral slide, a waterfall slide, tunnels, tubes, and ropes. They also offer a toddler structure for ages 3 and under. Shoreview shoreviewcommunitycenter.com

The Play Group

A beautifully designed space for babies, toddlers, and their grown-ups to experience a calm, soothing environment with toys and playthings. They provide enrichment classes, open play, and special events. Choose from an unlimited class membership, pay-per-class, or class packs.

St. Louis Park • theplaygroupmn.com

Lava Island

This tropical-themed indoor playground is filled with foam pits, trampolines, and more. Designed for siblings of all ages, from toddlers to teens, to play and have fun together. Refuel throughout the day with a snack or a drink from the restaurant!

Eden Prairie • lavaisland.com/eden-prairie

Kid’s Empire

This indoor playground offers family entertainment for all ages in 2 metro locations. Play space includes a three-story play structure with slides, tunnels, soccer turf, and more. Plenty of seating for parents (with 2 free adult entries per child). Play equipment may vary by location.

Roseville & Bloomington • kidsempire.com

Wild Things Indoor Play

Lakeville’s newest indoor playground is packed with towering climbs, twisty slides, and nonstop fun. Locally owned and operated, this jungle-themed indoor playground is designed for kids ages 0–12. There is a separate soft play zone just for kids ages 0-3.

Lakeville • wildthingsplayground.com

Jump Start Adventure Park

Bounce, climb, and race together through an inflatable ninja adventure. This indoor play space is packed with slides, climbing walls, mazes, obstacles, and a colorful ball pit!

There is a separate toddler space, too. Don’t miss the on-site concessions and prizes.

Chanhasse • jumpstartpark.com

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A Spanish immersion preschool where your child feels safe, loved, and inspired every day. #MisAmigosWay! #MisAmigosWay! • NAEYC Accredited • 4-Star Parent Aware Rated

MINI GOLF

Big Stone Mini Golf and Sculpture Garden

This hidden gem offers creative minigolf holes and unique sculptures. After your round, explore the beautiful Big Stone Sculpture Gardens, featuring rolling hills, life-sized games, ponds, and open pastures—perfect for a playful and scenic day out.

Minnetrista • bigstoneminigolf.com

Can Can Wonderland

Enjoy indoor mini golf and a boardwalk-style arcade at this whimsical, slightly edgy venue. Stick around for pinball machines and a bite to eat!

St. Paul • cancanwonderland.com

Puttshack

Puttshack puts a high-tech twist on mini golf with automatic score tracking and interactive challenges. Experience multiple vibrant indoor mini-golf courses and globally inspired dining. Perfect for family outings or birthday parties. This immersive experience is fun for all ages.

Minneapolis & Edina • puttshack.com

Lilli Putt

Family-friendly mini golf with a twist! Come for the mini golf, stay for the go-karts, bumper boats, a jump pad, and more! Plus, seasonal events all summer and fall for nonstop fun.

Coon Rapids • lilliputt.net

Pirates Cove Adventure Golf

The adventures and legends of infamous pirates come to life in this theme park-like setting. Two 18-hole courses, with lavish landscaping. Next door, find Billy Bones Raceway go-kart complex.

Brainerd • tinyurl.com/piratescove-mn

Veterans Memorial Park Mini Golf & Malt Shop

Enjoy 18 holes of miniature golf surrounded by gardens, small waterfalls, ponds, and streams. This course is the right mix of playful and challenging. Afterward, enjoy a malt or ice cream cone! Plus, there is a large playground and walking trails nearby.

Richfield • tinyurl.com/malt-t-mn

Golf Zone

Enjoy year-round play with mini-games and world-renowned courses. They offer a full-length heated driving range with Toptracer Range monitors and an 18-hole indoor mini-golf course. No reservations needed!

Chaska • golfzonemn.com

Moose Mountain Adventure Golf

Located in the Mall of America, this 18-hole miniature golf course features a Northwoods theme, complete with a life-size moose! Spot the logging truck, steam time, and biplane, while you putt.

Bloomington • mallofamerica.com/directory/moose-mountain-adventure-golf

MUSEUMS

Hennepin-Overland Railway Museum

Rail fanatics with the Hennepin Overland Railway Historical Society invite visitors to watch as they operate unique model railways. Open September - April.

Minneapolis • hennepinoverland.org

Minnesota Air National Guard Museum

See dozens of aircraft from the early days of aviation to the present on an active military base. Guided tours and birthday parties are available year-round.

St. Paul • mnangmuseum.org

Science Museum of Minnesota

Perched on the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, this 370,000-square-foot, kid-friendly museum features many interactive exhibits focusing on technology, natural history, paleontology, the human body, and the people and cultures of the Mississippi River. There’s also an Omnitheater, offering educational big-screen films for all ages.

St. Paul • smm.org

Landmark Center

Originally the Federal Courthouse and Post Office for the Upper Midwest, this National Historic Monument in downtown St. Paul features six free museums and exhibits, including “Uncle Sam Worked Here,” highlighting the building’s unique history. From September to May, attend free community and cultural events on Sundays at Landmark.

St. Paul • landmarkcenter.org

Bell Museum

Minnesota’s official natural history museum, featuring a digital planetarium, wildlife dioramas (including a woolly mammoth), outdoor learning experiences, hands-on opportunities, and more.

St. Paul • bellmuseum.umn.edu

Alexander Ramsey House

As one of the nation’s best-preserved Victorian-era homes, this Minnesota Historical Society site is a virtual portal to the Victorian era, featuring enthusiastic costumed guides (sometimes bearing freshly baked cookies) who give glimpses of family and servant life in the 1870s. St. Paul • mnhs.org/ramseyhouse

American Swedish Institute

Housed in the historic Turnblad Mansion, this museum showcases Swedish art, glass, and textiles, along with special activities for children. Enjoy performances at the Nelson Cultural Center. Explore the interactive Family Gallery, offering a new, immersive exhibition each year. Minneapolis • asimn.org

The Bakken Museum

Learn about electricity, magnetism, and more at this immersive and whimsical museum on the shores of Lake Bde Maka Ska. They offer a variety of kid-friendly activities throughout the year, including popular summer camps. Minneapolis • thebakken.org

Firefighters Hall and Museum

Explore numerous historic fire department artifacts, including fire trucks, equipment, photos, and interactive displays for kids. Some museum artifacts date back to the 1860s!

Minneapolis • minnesotafiremuseum.org

Historic Fort Snelling

Discover an 1820s military outpost and take part in the fort’s everyday life: mend clothes, scrape a hide, or sing along with the soldiers. A living-history program, with costumed guides, is presented throughout the summer and on select weekends. This is also a

popular outdoor destination and state park with year-round recreational activities for all ages and abilities.

St. Paul • historicfortsnelling.org

The Fendt Lodge

Learn all about agriculture by looking at some of the largest farming machines and how they’ve evolved over the years. The Intivity Center and the AGCO manufacturing facilities are where premium tractors like the Massey Ferguson Series and Challenger tractors roll off the assembly line. Tours are available by appointment for ages 12+.

Jackson • intivitycenter.com

The Landing

Experience life on the scenic Minnesota River as it was during the 1880s through historical buildings, costumed guides, and special activities at this Three Rivers Park District site.

Shakopee • tinyurl.com/landing-mn

Mill City Museum

Built into the ruins of what was once the world’s largest flour mill, this museum helps visitors of all ages learn about the shared histories of the flour industry, the Mississippi Riverfront, and the city of Minneapolis. Stop by the baking lab, play at water tables, and watch history unfold as you take an eight-story elevator ride in the Flour Tower.

Minneapolis • millcitymuseum.org

Minnesota Children’s Museum

Explore a variety of exciting exhibits and permanent attractions, such as The Scramble (a four-story adventure with climbing towers, a spiral slide, and a suspended netted catwalk), Sprouts (a discovery area for babies and toddlers), visiting exhibits, and more.

St. Paul • mcm.org

MUSEUMS

Minnesota History Center

This beloved museum brings Minnesota’s history to life for all ages with hands-on activities and multimedia presentations. It also serves as the home base for the Minnesota Historical Society, which oversees 26 unique and engaging historical sites across the state.

St. Paul • mnhs.org/historycenter

The Museum of Russian Art

Explore Russian art from the 19th and 20th centuries and beyond, including Russian Orthodox icons, photography, lacquer art, porcelain, Soviet stamps, textiles, and Matryoshka nesting dolls. Minneapolis • tmora.org

Minneapolis Institute of Arts

Mia features collections of ancient works from Asia, Africa, Oceania, and the Americas, as well as contemporary art and sculpture. Free activities for families are offered every month. Mia’s Family Center is open daily, featuring toys, kid-friendly books, and space to play.

Minneapolis • artsmia.org

Minnesota State Capitol

Free guided and self-guided tours offered. Tours explore this domed architectural gem, providing an overview of its history, art, architecture, and our state’s government.

St. Paul • mnhs.org/capitol

Minnesota Wing

Commemorative Air Force

This working museum is dedicated to preserving and restoring military aircraft from World War II, including vintage aircraft, a large motor pool fleet, and a unique collection of World War II artifacts. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.

South St. Paul • cafmn.org

The Works Museum

Discover hands-on engineering activities for kids in grades K through 6 that encourage invention, exploration, and problem-solving with creative thinking. Programs include family engineering nights, camps, birthdays, Tech Fest, and more.

Bloomington • theworks.org

Pavek Museum of Broadcasting

You can create your own radio broadcast, use a ham radio to talk to people all over the world, and listen to classic radio programs. Then, check out the collection of antique radios, televisions, and broadcast equipment. Youth programs, camps, and tours are also available.

St. Louis Park • pavekmuseum.org

Sibley Historic Site

Experienced guides lead visitors through four of Minnesota’s oldest surviving buildings, all fully furnished. Enjoy captivating stories about the American Fur Company from 1825 to 1853.

Mendota • mnhs.org/sibley

Schubert Club Music Museum

This music museum, located on the second floor of the Landmark Center in downtown St. Paul, inspires, educates, and entertains visitors as they navigate the galleries. Visitors can hear and play instruments from around the globe, either hands-on or through innovative technologies.

St. Paul • schubert.org

Twin City Model Railroad Museum

Check out detailed models of Twin Cities railroads from the 1930s to the 1950s, plus dynamic displays from the Greater Midwest LEGO Train Club. Plus, Circus Trains is a special event featuring circus trains, models, and parades in several museum exhibits. St. Paul • tcmrm.org

Walker Art Center & Minneapolis Sculpture Garden

Wander diverse galleries featuring contemporary art, watch a film, or enjoy a performance. Visitors can also explore the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, featuring more than 50 works of outdoor art (including the city’s iconic Spoonbridge and Cherry!). Admission is always free for ages 18 & under, and to everyone at the adjacent Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. Special children’s activities are offered on the first Saturday of each month. Minneapolis • walkerart.org

Weisman Art Museum

American artists, such as Georgia O’Keeffe and Marsden Hartley, are on display in this gleaming modern metallic building on the University of Minnesota campus. Minneapolis • wam.umn.edu

Minnesota Transportation Museum

Learn local history through the lens of railroading. At St. Paul’s Jackson Street Roundhouse, take a caboose, explore interactive exhibits, and enjoy special events throughout the year. At the Osceola and St. Croix Valley Railway, take train rides through the St. Croix River Valley in vintage equipment. St. Paul • transportationmuseum.org

Landmark Center in downtown Saint Paul offers free or low-cost programming featuring music, dance and theater. Free to visit, it hosts five museumsalong with family events year-round.

PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS

Chutes & Ladders Park

at Hyland Park Reserve

This award-winning creative play area has something for the entire family. Explore platforms, hexagonal climbers, and slides up to 50 feet long. There is also a section designed just for young children to climb, swing, hang, and slide!

Bloomington • tinyurl.com/hyland-park

Shoreview Commons Park

This fantastic destination park is like something out of The Lorax! The playground includes artificial turf leading up to slides, traditional swing sets, a 50-foot zip line, and climbing activities. Don’t miss the treehouse tower, it’s more than 20 feet tall and has super-long slides.

Explore, learn, and grow at Dodge Nature Center in every season!

• Free trails open daily

Shoreview tinyurl.com/shoreviewcommonspark

Elm Creek Park Reserve

This brightly colored playground has five play areas to explore. Each area has unique features, including two zip lines, a dino dig, saucer swings, a 4-story play structure with slides, and climbing nets. The swim pond is located nearby, making this a full day of fun all summer.

Maple Grove • tinyurl.com/elmcreek-park

Teddy Bear Park

Whimsically decorated playground equipment for all ages, featuring teddy bears, trains, climbing webs, and log slides. This beloved park is a bucket list playground for many local families.

Stillwater tinyurl.com/mn-teddybearpark

French Regional Park

The playground offers huge towers, 47 climbable nets, six slides, music activities, and a water mister. Nearby, explore walkable trails, bridges, and the Medicine Lake swimming area with a beach. Seasonal rentals are available at the visitor center in youth and adult sizes.

Plymouth • tinyurl.com/frenchreg-park

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• Nature activities for all ages

• Day camps

• Nature preschool and more!

Located in: West St. Paul Mendota Heights Cottage Grove

Central Park

This popular Maple Grove park features a playground with a 120-foot-long climbing wall, a 24-foot tower, a labyrinth, an interactive fountain, a great lawn, trails, and more.

Maple Grove • tinyurl.com/centralparkmn

Madison’s Place Playground

This inclusive outdoor playground offers sun-shade-covered play decks, swings, sensory play equipment, and ramps for wheelchair access. Large grassy areas, picnic tables, indoor restrooms, and water fountains are also available. Summer visitors can enjoy the splash pad!

Woodbury • woodburymn.gov

Woodbridge Park

This inclusive playground is a fantastic destination for all ages, skills, and abilities. The nature-based playground is designed to integrate with the existing amenities at Woodridge Park.

Cottage Grove • cottagegrovemn.gov

Thompson County Park

PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS

This charming park provides a quiet getaway for families, featuring a large picnic area overlooking Thompson Lake and miles of trails connecting the River to River Greenway. This trail system links Thompson County Park to Kaposia Park and the Mississippi River Greenway.

West St. Paul • co.dakota.mn.us/park

Caponi Art Park

30 works of art,scattered along dirt paths and rolling woodlands. Many of the sculptures are built whimsically into the sides of the hills or tucked under ferns. The park’s Theater in the Woods hosts several summer events. In the fall, check out the Medieval Fair. Eagan • caponiartpark.org

Rambling River Park

This castle-themed park encourages kids to pretend they’re knights in shining armor. Check out Westview Acres Park, too, which offers challenges for big kids and special features for toddlers.

Farmington • tinyurl.com/rambling-mn

Centennial Lakes Park

Paved pathways meander around this beautiful lake, featuring seating areas, art installations, swinging benches, and fountains. Fun activities keep this urban oasis busy year-round, including swan boats in the summer, an arts festival in the fall, and ice skating in the winter.

Edina • tinyurl.com/centenniallakes

Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary

This urban oasis is located on the north shore of the Mississippi River. Explore towering limestone bluffs, spring-fed wetlands, and paths that lead to river and skyline views.

St. Paul • tinyurl.com/ventosanctuary

OPEN FOR ENROLLMENT

AGES 6 WEEKS TO 5 YEARS

YMCA EARLY CHILDHOOD LEARNING CENTERS

At YMCA ECLC, kids grow through hands-on exploration, social-emotional learning, and joyful play that builds strong kindergarten readiness. Guided by caring teachers, every day nurtures confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning.

SCHEDULE A TOUR! ymcanorth.org/eclc

PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS

Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary

Trails lead you through serene woodlands, wetlands, and open prairies teeming with native plants and birdlife. Just across the street, Theodore Wirth Park offers a playground and a sandy beach for even more outdoor fun.

Minneapolis • tinyurl.com/eloise-mn

Lake Rebecca Park Reserve

This gently rolling, big-woods landscape includes wetland areas for families to explore together, plenty of play space, picnic areas, and a public beach. Spot wildlife like trumpeter swans!

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

Minnesota’s largest public garden. Highlights include tulip displays, a crabapple collection, a maze garden, a shade tree exhibit, and the bee center. Activities include hands-on family garden time, festivals, and, during the holiday season, Winter Lights displays. Free for ages 15 and under.

Chaska • arb.umn.edu

Minnehaha Regional Park

This urban park boasts a stunning 53-foot waterfall, trails, a dog park, playgrounds, a wading pool, bike rentals, concerts, and the beloved Sea Salt Eatery.

Minneapolis • tinyurl.com/minnehaha-mn

Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway

Rockford • tinyurl.com/lakerebecca

Featuring more than 50 miles of walking trails and paved cycling paths, the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway loops around some of the most scenic areas of Minneapolis, including seven districts. Along the way, find more than 50 interpretive sites! Minneapolis tinyurl.com/grand-rounds-mn

POOLS & WATER PARKS

Anoka Aquatic Center

Soak up summer at this destination, featuring a 200-foot-long water slide, a 12-foot climbing wall, a diving board, a huge water-play structure, and a zero-depth-entry pool.

Anoka • tinyurl.com/anoka-aquatic

Apple Valley Family Aquatic Center

Some of the most popular features at this giant pool include water slides (two big and two small), a bowl slide, fountains, and a lazy river.

Apple Valley tinyurl.com/applevalleyaquatic

Battle Creek Waterworks

Families are invited to try out this park’s interactive water-play system, a lily-pad walk, a three-story slide, a sand play area, and more.

Maplewood tinyurl.com/maplewood-water

Bloomington Family Aquatic Center

Explore interactive water-play features, an aqua climbing wall, diving boards, and water slides at this summertime escape.

Bloomington tinyurl.com/bloomington-aquatic

Bunker Beach Water Park

Bunker Beach is Minnesota’s largest outdoor water park, featuring a wave pool, water slides, lazy river, splash pad, adventure pool, and more! Located just minutes from Minneapolis and St. Paul, it is a thrilling destination for summer fun in the sun.

Coon Rapids • bunkerbeach.com

Edina Aquatic Center

Located in Rosland Park, this venue features water heated to 82 degrees, a surf simulator, a high-flying cable ride, diving boards, and an Olympic-sized pool. Enjoy water slides, tube rides, a kiddie pool with slides and sprayers, and a large, treehouse-themed playground. Edina • edinaaquaticcenter.com

Great River Water Park

Visitors to this indoor water park will find a children’s activity pool with age-appropriate water slides, a pirate-themed play area, and more.

St. Paul • tinyurl.com/great-river-mn

Great Wolf Lodge

Experience a world of play where you can splash, slide, swim, and relax together. Go with the flow in the water park resort or find adventurous dry-play throughout the lodge—with over 50 other attractions, including a resort-wide digital scavenger hunt known as MagiQuest. Book a room for a family getaway, or purchase an Indoor Water Park Day Pass to enjoy the fun!

Bloomington • greatwolf.com/minnesota

Grove Cove Aquatic Center

This indoor-outdoor facility includes a leisure pool with a zero-depth beach area, water-spray activities, a 130-foot water slide, and a tot slide. The indoor lap pool features 25-yard lanes and a thrilling rope swing that drops into a 12-foot-deep pool.

Maple Grove tinyurl.com/mgcc-swimmingpool

Visit our splash pad directory here: tinyurl.com/splashpadsmn

POOLS & WATER PARKS

The Lagoon at Treasure Island Resort

It’s a year-round pool party at The Lagoon! This indoor waterpark features a zero-depth spray-and-play toddler area, dump bucket and geysers, two looping body slides, a relaxing lazy river, and an activity pool. Book a room for a family getaway, or purchase

Highland Park Aquatic Center

At this neighborhood favorite, you can ride down a 200-foot water slide, explore a prehistoric whale-bone splash pad, and check out the 8-lane lap pool.

St. Paul • facebook.com/highlandaquatic

Valleyfair Soak City

Included in the Valleyfair’s general park admission, this 3.5-acre water park includes a splash pad, a wave pool, cabanas for rent, raft rides, body slides, and sand volleyball. Shakopee • valleyfair.com

Tropics Indoor Water Park

This destination features a three-story water slide, complete with lights and a jukebox system. Don’t miss the zero-depth-entry beach area, interactive splashing palm tree, boat slide, and giant floating sea creatures. Kids also like the water volleyball and basketball areas.

Shoreview • tinyurl.com/tropics-shoreview

At this fun-filled spot, you can enjoy big and small water slides, a log crossing, a rock wall,

Hastings • tinyurl.com/hastings-aquatic

This destination features five unique pool structures, including waterslides, a water walk, a drop slide, and a zero-depth-entry

Please share! Once you are done reading, please share it with your friends, family and/or co-workers! Thank you.

POOLS & WATER PARKS

Jim Lupient Water Park

This beloved water park in northeast Minneapolis features three large water slides and a tube slide, a log water walk, interactive spray features, lap swimming, and a zero-depth entry area. Minneapolis • tinyurl.com/jim-mn

Minneapolis Wading Pools

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board boasts 50+ wading pools in neighborhoods throughout the city. Many are small and intimate, just right for a few families at a time. Others, like North Mississippi Regional Park (featuring rock walls and waterfalls), are more adventurous.

Minneapolis • tinyurl.com/wading-minn

Richfield Outdoor Pool

Little ones will love the zero-depth-entry children’s wading pool and water play equipment. The 50-meter main pool has a double water slide, a diving board, water volleyball, and two lap lanes. There is a free splash pad just outside the pool area, too. Richfield • tinyurl.com/pool-richfield

Cascade Bay Water Park

Open daily June - August, this waterpark features a leisure pool, a zero-depth entry pool, seven waterslides, a lazy river, a sand play area, mini-golf, concessions, and more. Eagan cityofeagan.com/cascade-bay-waterpark

St. Louis Park Outdoor Aquatic Park

Ride down winding water slides, drop slides, and a toddler-sized whale slide. You can also enjoy a picnic gazebo, a lap pool, and a water playground.

St. Louis • tinyurl.com/slp-aquatic

SCAN FOR POOLS & WATER PARKS

SPARKING CURIOSIT Y. INSPIRING LIFELONG LEARNING.

Early Childhood Programming in ISD 191

Community Education ignites curiosity and suppor ts every child’s learning journey from bir th through kindergar ten entry. Our programs are designed to nur ture development, build strong family connections, and prepare children for a successful transition to kindergar ten.

Childhood

A welcoming space for the whole family to learn and grow together

Engaging parent-child interaction time

Meaningful parent discussion and suppor t

Classes for children from bir th to kindergar ten entry

Flexible scheduling: morning, afternoon, and evening options

Fees based on family income

ECFE builds strong foundations by suppor ting both children and the impor tant adults in their lives.

A joyful, play-based introduction to school

Half-day preschool experience

Morning and afternoon sessions available, Monday–Friday

Children must be 3 years old by September 1 Scholarships are available or sliding fee based on income

Through play, children develop social skills, independence, and a love of learning in a nur turing environment.

Star t Strong Grow Together Thrive in ISD 191

We are proud to par tner with families to suppor t every child’s early learning journey.

D iamondhead Education Center

Voluntary Prekindergar ten (VPK )

Preparing confident learners for kindergar ten and beyond

Half-day and full-day programming available, Monday–Friday

Play-based learning focused on:

Literacy

Math

Social-emotional development

Children must be 4 years old by September 1. Free or sliding fee based on eligibility

VPK provides a strong academic and social foundation while honoring developmentally appropriate practices

Early Childhood Screening

A free and impor tant first step in your child’s educational journey

Available for children ages 3–5

Screens development, vision, hearing, and health

Required before preschool or kindergar ten enrollment

Screening helps ensure children receive the suppor t they need to thrive

Ready to G row, Ready to Learn Licensed Child Care

Flexible, nur turing, and designed with families in mind Ready to Grow, Ready to Learn provides high-quality child care that suppor ts development, independence, and a love of learning.

Flexible Child Care Options:

Designed to meet the needs of busy families

Full-time and par t-time options available

Choose 2, 3, 4 or 5 days per week

Flexible hours:

7:00 AM – 5:30 PM 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM

Our program offers consistency for children and flexibility for families

Natural Playground

A space where imagination and movement come to life Our natural playground inspires curiosity, creativity, and active play

Dinosaur skeletons for imaginative exploration

Sand and water tables for sensory play

Sensory swing for regulation and fun

Mini parking lot for interactive learning

Climbing structures to build strength and coordination

Children explore, create, and develop strong motor skills all while learning through play

Suppor ting children as they prepare for kindergar ten success KinderSpark provides targeted instructional suppor t for children who are not yet fully ready for the demands of kindergar ten

Grounded in developmentally appropriate practice

Focus areas include: Literacy

Math

Social-emotional development Builds confidence, independence, and school readiness

Program Details: Monday–Friday 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM

Wraparound care available

Sliding fee scale for ISD 191 families KinderSpark helps children grow at their own

SPLASH PADS

Round Lake Park

Located next to a lake, beach, and playground, Eden Prairie’s second splash pad features palm-tree sprayers and a soft rubber matting surface for slip-free fun.

Eden Prairie edenprairie.org/amenities/splash-pads

HealthEast Sports Center

Located next to the inclusive Madison’s Place playground, this splash pad lets kids activate bubblers and water buckets by pressing a button on a special flower. Every four minutes, they get to restart the fun! The area includes a larger platform with dumping buckets, nozzles, and flower showers, as well as a separate platform designed just for toddlers.

Woodbury tinyurl.com/woodbury-splashpad

Central Park in Maple Grove

Oak Hill Park

This well-known interactive destination is ideal for no-plunge fun, complete with sprayers, sprinklers, tip buckets, and more. It’s located in Louisiana Oaks Park off Highway 7, featuring sprawling lawns, beautiful trees, and a playground.

St. Louis Park • tinyurl.com/oak-hill-splash

Andrews Park

This splash pad features boat motifs (including sprayer masts), rings, watertable-like attractions for early walkers, flower showers, a sunshade, and numerous benches and picnic tables, too.

Champlin tinyurl.com/champlin-splashpad

Burnsville Lions Playground

This splash pad is located at Cliff Fen Park, next to a huge playground with more than 87 play features. This site also offers access to the Minnesota Valley Wildlife Refuge. tinyurl.com/burnsville-splash

This popular park’s interactive fountain encompasses a large splash pad plaza with 49 jet sprays and 18 arching sprays. Once the sun goes down, LED lights turn the fountain into a light show. The adjacent playground features a climbing wall. There is also a great lawn and trails.

Maple Grove tinyurl.com/mg-centralpark

Nicollet Commons Park

This community hub includes a beautiful man-made creek filled, where kids splishsplash to cool off on hot days. Nearby is a timed town-square-style sprinkler display and grassy hills for picnicking and relaxation. In summer, stop by for concerts and movie night events, too!

Burnsville • tinyurl.com/nicolletcommons

Every parent deserves a village

From prenatal movement and birth education to

FIND YOUR VILLAGE AT BLOOMA.COM

Cedarcrest Park

Located in Bloomington near Cedar Valley Church (which allows visitors to use its parking lot), this splash pad is the highlight of the park. This splash pad features rubber tiles designed to increase safety and comfort. There is a playground located nearby, too!

tinyurl.com/cedarcrest-splashpad

Conway Park

Featuring sprays and splashes that emerge from a concrete plaza, conveniently located next to a playground with features geared toward ages 2–5 and 5– 12. There are ample benches and shade trees for parents to observe the fun or set up snack breaks.

St. Paul • stpaul.gov/conway-park

Harmon Park

Sprayers high and low let kids cool off after you hit the 19-acre park’s baseball/softball diamonds, batting cages, picnic areas, soccer field, playground, and concession stand.

West St. Paul • tinyurl.com/harmon-splash

SPLASH PADS

Highlands Park

Kids can play with overhead and waist-level sprayers. Nearby, you’ll find open grasslands, paved trails, sports fields, and a pretty pond for setting up a family picnic.

Cottage Grove tinyurl.com/cottagegrove-splashpad

Huset Park West

This neighborhood splash pad features large walk-through rings, a deck that shoots water, and ample nearby seating and picnic space. The park also features a bocce ball court, playground, and a picnic shelter.

Columbia Heights • tinyurl.com/splash-deck-ch

Miller Park

This playful splash pad, featuring a variety of sprayers, blends seamlessly into the Miller Park Barrier-Free Playground. The playground has accessible pathways and surface structures that give children and adults of all mobilities the opportunity to reach all levels of the play structure.

Eden Prairie edenprairie.org/amenities/splash-pads

SPLASH PADS

Kelley Park

Kids can’t resist running through the huge blue rings that spray and mist here. There’s also a gazebo decked out with picnic tables, plus a rubber-matted playground. Apple Valley • tinyurl.com/kelleypark

Roy Wilkins Park (Lewis Park)

This is a fun, plaza-style splash pad with simple sprays and jets shooting out of a concrete plaza. Nearby, you’ll find playground equipment, including a tot lot for younger kids.

St. Paul • stpaul.gov/lewis-park

Parque de Castillo

This park features a play area, splash pad, public art, grills, and a picnic area. It’s adjacent to the Gilbert de la O baseball and multi-use fields, as well as El Rio Vista Recreation Center.

St. Paul • tinyurl.com/castillo-splash

SCAN FOR SPLASH PADS

Phalen Park

This splash pad offers views of Phalen Lake, complete with plenty of bench seating for grown-ups and easy access to the free, guarded beach and the rest of the fullservice park.

St. Paul • tinyurl.com/phalen-splash

Rivers Edge

Large and dotted with spinning sprayers, this northwest metro splash pad sits next to a playground (including swing sets), a sunshade, picnic tables, and a sports park. Waite Park • tinyurl.com/waite-water

Rosemount Splash Pad at Central Park

This water spot is perfect for kids, with nozzles that spray water up from the splash pad’s rain deck, plus a moving water feature that lets younger children direct the flow as it passes through a maze. There’s plenty of seating for parents and a covered shelter with picnic tables, too.

Rosemount rosemountmn.gov/849/Splash-Pad

Orono Park

Orono Park is a family-friendly 28-acre park on the west shore of Lake Orono. It offers an expanded beach area, an open recreation lawn, a Kayak/SUP rental facility, a large splash pad, lighted pickleball and basketball courts, and more.

Elk River • elkrivermn.gov

Prairie Park

Located behind Otsego Prairie Center, this park offers a thrilling splash pad experience. The park also features a Skate Park, an archery range, and a large playground area for kids.

Otsego • www.ci.otsego.mn.us

SKIING & TUBING HILLS

Buck Hill

Experience skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing within 15 minutes of downtown Minneapolis. There is a magic carpet to make the climb easier for all ages. This destination even offers summer skiing, thanks to an artificial ski slope that simulates real snow conditions!

Burnsville • buckhill.com

Lutsen Mountain

This is the largest ski resort in the Midwest, offering a vertical drop of 825 feet and an impressive 1,000 acres of skiable terrain. Kids and adults can explore 95 diverse runs, from gentle slopes to challenging steep drops like The Plunge. Ski-in/ski-out accommodations available. Lutsen • lutsen.com

Spirit Mountain

22 downhill runs, ranging from easy to difficult. They also feature four freestyle terrain areas. It is also home to the Courage Kenny Ski & Snowboard program, which offers adaptive lessons. Enjoy other activities, like snow tubing and cross-country skiing. Duluth • spiritmt.com

Trollhaugen Outdoor Recreation Area

Trollhaugen features 30 ski and snowboard runs, 3 terrain parks, chair lifts, tubing hills, and rope tows. They offer ski trails ranging from beginner to advanced. Snow tubing recommended for 3+. All snow tubes are single rider (lap riding is not permitted). Dresser, WI. • trollhaugen.com

Hyland Hills Ski Area

Boasting one of the prettiest chalets in the state, this close-in hill offers skiing and snowboarding, with a training zone for tots. There are a dozen runs with great views of the Minneapolis skyline. Bloomington • tinyurl.com/hyland-mn

SKIING & TUBING HILLS

Mount Ski Gull

Afton Alps

This sprawling resort offers nearly 300 skiable acres, 50 trails, and 18 lifts, ensuring there’s something for every skill level. Plus, the new terrain park features 60-foot big-air jumps. Snow tubing has a 42” minimum height requirement, and is single-rider only. Lanes are divided for maximum safety and fun!

Hastings • aftonalps.com

Wild Mountain

Ski, snowboard, or go tubing less than an hour from the Twin Cities. There are 26 runs traversing 100 acres of snow-covered terrain. Try their tubing park—the largest in the area—where a conveyor belt takes you to the top for easy fun!

Taylors Falls • wildmountain.com

Welch Village

Located less than an hour from the Twin Cities in the Cannon River Valley, this ski and snowboard destination offers 60 runs covering 140 acres. There’s terrain for all skill levels, from beginner slopes to the challenging Back Bowl. The new terrain park includes a rope tow.

Welch • welchvillage.com

Giants Ridge

This resort boasts 35 runs and a vertical drop of 500 feet, catering to all skill levels. Adaptive skiing programs are also offered for all abilities. Families also love the snow tubing lanes for all ages. Ski-in/ski-out accommodations are available for a weekend of fun in the snow.

Biwabik • giantsridge.com

Mount Ski Gull offers 12 runs that cater to all skill levels (including night skiing!). The dedicated high-speed rope tow terrain park is ideal for skiers and snowboarders looking to enhance their skills. Families can also enjoy a thrilling day of snow tubing down five 700-foot lanes!

Nisswa • mountskigull.com

Mount Kato Ski Area

This ski hill features 19 runs, with a 240-foot vertical drop. Mount Kato has something for all skill levels, including 3 terrain parks packed with features for snowboarders and skiers. Snow tubing includes specially designed tubes and handle tows for easy trips up the hill.

Mankato • mountkato.com

GET CLOSER THAN EVER GET CLOSER THAN EVER GET CLOSER

THEATRES & MUSIC VENUES

Ames Center

This venue includes two theaters: a 1,000seat Masquerade Dance Theater and an intimate 150-seat black box theater. Presentations include cultural events, theater and dance productions, musical acts from local arts organizations, and nationally touring artists.

Burnsville • ames-center.com

Artistry Theater and Visual Arts

This award-winning theater, located at the Bloomington Center for the Arts, is dedicated to providing vibrant and diverse arts experiences. They produce a wide range of work that informs and enriches the South Metro community. On-site, there are also free art galleries. Bloomington • artistrymn.org

Bunce Performing Arts

A non-profit, community theatre in Maple Grove. They bring stories of hope and encouragement to people of all ages through affordable, high-quality productions. Maple Grove/Osseo bunceperformingarts.com

Capri Theater

Plymouth Christian Youth Center owns and operates this historic theater. Productions and programs aim to enrich the skills, prospects, and spirits of youth and adults in North Minneapolis. Minneapolis • thecapritheater.org

Hennepin Theatre District

This nonprofit organization owns the 900 Hennepin event center, the historic Orpheum Theatre (recommended for ages 6+), and the Pantages Theatre. Each theater hosts a variety of productions, including Broadway shows, concerts, dance performances, and special events. Minneapolis • hennepintheatretrust.org

HALL PASS

Chanhassen Dinner Theatres

Enjoy a variety of dinner theater, comedy, concerts, and other events at this multi-stage venue. Children aged 5 and older are generally welcome. They also offer theater-education programming and camps for ages 5+.

Chanhassen • chanhassendt.com

Chaska Valley Family Theatre

Founded in 1995, this community-organized theater provides live performances at three different venues with an emphasis on family involvement and local talent.

Chaska & Chanhassen • cvft.org

Children’s Theatre Company

One of the largest and most revered children’s theater companies in the country, CTC includes a main stage and a smaller, more intimate stage. Both feature awardwinning productions and community programs (including camps) for audiences of all ages.

Minneapolis • childrenstheatre.org

The Fitzgerald Theater

Circus Juventas

Located in St. Paul’s Highland Park neighborhood, this is one of North America’s largest youth circus schools. Founded in 1994 by real-life circus performers, the school offers programs for ages 2+. Plus, summer camps for kids ages 6 to 18.

St. Paul • circusjuventas.org

This 100+ year-old theater is owned by the same company that owns First Avenue. They offer a variety of unique performances. This is also Saint Paul’s oldest surviving theater space!

St. Paul • thefitzgeraldtheater.com

THEATRES & MUSIC VENUES

Guthrie Theater

Situated on the banks of the Mississippi River, this multi-stage theater includes a classic thrust stage for grand-scale classics, a proscenium stage for more contemporary classics, and a studio theater for developing the classics of the future. Youth classes and camps are available. The Guthrie generally recommends that children be at least 12 years old for most shows. Minneapolis • guthrietheater.org

Northrop

This performing arts venue at the University of Minnesota features concerts, ballets, lectures, and special events, including many family-friendly productions. Minneapolis • northrop.umn.edu

Lundstrum Performing Arts

Classes, camps, and workshops at this multispace venue offer an integrated dance, voice, and drama curriculum for ages 3+ that includes ballet, hip-hop, musical theater, and more.

Minneapolis • lundstrumcenter.org

Minnesota Orchestra

Designed for children in grades 1–6, the Minnesota Orchestra’s Young People’s Concerts combine entertainment and education. Each concert focuses on musical literacy, composers, history, and storytelling through sound. They offer an engaging introduction to live symphonic music. Minneapolis tinyurl.com/mnorch-ypc

In

the Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theatre

Using ancient traditions to explore contemporary issues and values, this community theater offers puppet-forward productions and programming for all ages.

Minneapolis • hobt.org

Park Square Theatre

This acclaimed contemporary theater offers year-round student matinees as part of its award-winning theater program. They also offer Summer Camps for grades K–12.

St. Paul • parksquaretheatre.org

Penumbra Theatre Company

Since 1976, this historic theater has focused on giving voice to AfricanAmerican perspectives and performers. Its mission is to raise public awareness of the significant contributions African Americans have made in shaping a diverse American theatrical tradition.

St. Paul • penumbratheatre.org

Celtic Junction Arts Center

Minnesota’s award-winning Irish cultural center! Located in St. Paul, they offer traditional Irish music concerts, literature performances, dances, and more. They also offer language classes, craft and cultural classes, and a heritage library.

St. Paul • celticjunction.org

SteppingStone Theatre

This theater is committed to access and inclusion for all people and collaborates with families to meet students’ needs. They offer camps and classes for young artists of all ages.

St. Paul • steppingstonetheatre.org

THEATRES & MUSIC VENUES

Stages Theatre Company

Operating out of the Hopkins Center for the Arts, this popular children’s theater company hosts performances, classes, workshops, and special events for all ages. Accessible productions and pay-what-you-can pricing are available for all shows.

Hopkins • stagestheatre.org

Ordway Center for the Performing Arts

Hosting performances by the Minnesota Opera, the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, and the Schubert Club, this popular venue also features Broadway shows, dance performances, and music concerts. Every summer, the Ordway hosts the free Flint Hills Family Festival. Most productions are geared toward school-aged children and older.

St. Paul • ordway.org

Youth Performance Company

This award-winning youth theater company helps young actors, singers, and dancers reach their artistic potential and become community leaders through classes, camps, and more.

Minneapolis • youthperformanceco.org

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MONTESSORI SCHOOL

Learn. Explore. Thrive.

Included in Tuition:

Montessori philosophy and trained teachers

Infant, Toddler and Preschool classrooms

Catered, nutritious lunches

Low teacher-to-child ratios

Cloth diaper and training underwear service

MacPhail music classes for all

Loving staff and community

Large gym for inside days

GO DISCOVER.

WHY BE A BEAR?

• Student-centered instruction. We believe all students grow and learn in different ways and at different rates, all can achieve.

• More academic opportunities to explore interests, excel and design your future.

• Students are agents and owners of their own learning in an environment that is safe, supportive and challenging — with high expectations for student success.

• Our educators inspire, facilitate, and challenge students, nurturing curiosity and confidence. We provide a window to their future.

• We are transforming learning. Our flexible learning spaces and learning studios ignite opportunities for communication, collaboration, creativity and critical thinking.

These local partners support our goal to feature stories on various topics that appeal to today’s parents, from health to education, travel, entertainment, and more.

GOLD LEVEL

LOCAL PARTNER LISTINGS

ARTrageous Adventures

Make birthdays or other occasions unforgettable—create, play, and pARTy your way! We host at our studio or bring the fun to you. All supplies included, tons of themes (or invent your own). Perfect for all ages! Minneapolis • ARTrageousAdventures.com

Ballet Co.Laboratory

Explore dance through music, movement, stories, & games at Ballet Co.Laboratory. With 28 unique classes offered for ages 3+, you are sure to find time to dance! Led by professional dancers, our classes will help your budding dancer unleash their creativity while making lifelong friends.

Saint Paul •balletcolaboratory.org

Child Development Laboratory School

For 100 years, the Child Development Laboratory School at the University of Minnesota has provided top-tier early education. We are NAEYC-accredited and consistently earn a 4-star Parent Aware rating. Experienced teachers and thoughtful, play-based curriculum foster children’s growth and learning. Minneapolis • lab-school.umn.edu

Can Can Wonderland

Can Can Wonderland is a world famous, nationally acclaimed, one-of-a-kind mini golf course made by artists right here in Minnesota. It’s creative, colorful, fun, and for all ages. Built inside a big old can factory, it’s always 70 degrees and sunny inside this venue. 150 retro pinball and arcade games set to free play covered by the cost of admission. 5 and under are free. St Paul • cancanwonderland.com

Children’s Theatre Company

CTC’s classes and camps spark curiosity, creativity, and confidence! Available for early learners, explorers, and advanced students. Led by professional teaching artists, students shine in experiences that celebrate their ideas and skills—plus, scholarships make participation accessible to all. Minneapolis • childrenstheatre.org

CHIRO FOR MOMS

A perinatal specialty clinic delivering focused chiropractic and pelvic floor care for women and kids - no treatment plans, just real support in a space built entirely for moms. Trusted by medical professionals!

PREGNANCY POSTPARTUM PELVIC FLOOR PEDIATRIC

City of Lakes Waldorf School

CLWS offers a dynamic educational experience for students ages 18 months8th grade. Since 1988, CLWS has been celebrated for its commitment to a true whole child approach, blending art, music, and movement into a rigorous academic curriculum that uniquely prepares students for high school and beyond. Minneapolis • clws.org

District 191

Burnsville-Eagan-Savage School District 191 is a future-forward school district creating barrier-free pathways for learning for everyone in our community. We believe learning is a lifelong pursuit, and create programs, services and opportunities that inspire this belief.

Burnsville • isd191.org

Dentistry for Children & Adolescents

Since 1968, we have been dedicated to delivering the highest standard of pediatric dental care to families. Our team of professionally trained pediatric dentists is committed to ensuring your children have a positive dental experience. From infancy through age 18, we specialize in treating children, including those with special needs, making us an ideal place for your family.

Burnsville, Eden Prairie, and Edina childrensdent.com

Forgotten Star Brewing Co.

Founded in 2019 in a historic WWII manufacturing facility. Today, guests can enjoy brews, mocktails, seltzer cocktails, eats and plenty of N/A beverages in the taproom, beer garden and year round patio. With public events, private event space and more, there’s something for everyone!

Fridley • forgottenstarbrewing.com Visit minnesotaparent.com to sign up for our newsletter!

LOCAL PARTNER LISTINGS

FREE FAMILY EVENTS

MONTHLY STORY TIME

KIDS MEALS AND N/A DRINKS

38 NORTHERN STACKS DRIVE. FRIDLEY, MN

Foss Swim School

Foss teaches children of all ages and abilities how to be safer swimmers. Since 1993, FOSS has taught nearly 400k children how to swim confidently. Their unique Swim Path curriculum personalizes learning for every student, making it fun and effective.

Twin Cities Metro Area fossswimschool.com

Forest History Center

Experience the stories of the north woods and learn about the lumberjacks who called these forests home. Explore Minnesota’s forests of yesterday and today through exhibits and nature trails.

Grand Rapids • mnhs.org/foresthistory

Historic Fort Snelling

This National Historic Landmark resides on Dakota homeland, known as Bdote, with history spanning 10,000 years. Learn about the military fort and surrounding area, home to history that includes Native peoples, trade, soldiers, veterans, enslaved people, immigrants, and the changing landscape.

St Paul • mnhs.org/fortsnelling

Gillette Children’s

For more than 125 years, Gillette Children’s has focused on some of the toughest challenges in pediatric medicine. We care for brain, bone, and movement conditions that require specialized expertise. Our research, treatment, and supportive technologies enable every child to lead a life defined by their dreams, not their diagnoses.

St. Paul with clinics around Minnesota gillettechildren.org

Just Between Friends

JBF Eagan/Apple Valley; JBF Blaine/ Andover: JBF Twin Cities NE Metro are pop-up consignment sales for infants to teen plus maternity new and gently used items at 50-90% off of retail.

Twin Cities Metro Area jbfgo.com/MNParent

Please share! Once you are done reading, please share it with your friends, family and/or co-workers! Thank you.

LOCAL PARTNER LISTINGS

Kidcreate Studio

Kidcreate Studio offers award-winning art, science, and sensory classes, camps, and birthday parties designed to spark curiosity and creativity in children. Perfect for ages 12 months to 12 years, we create experiences that inspire and delight young minds!

Eden Prairie • kidcreate.com/eden-prairie

Kinderberry Hill

Child Development Centers

Kinderberry Hill is so much more than daycare. With certified outdoor classrooms, Spanish and STEAM enrichment programs, an onsite nurse, and more, Kinderberry Hill is proud to provide the finest learning experience for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and pre-kindergartners.

7 Twin Cities Locations kinderberryhill.com

Kids’ Hair

Kids’ Hair understands that children have unique haircare needs. With skilled stylists who specialize in children’s haircuts, our salons provide a fun and welcoming environment for all ages. We have proudly served Twin Cities families for 33 years!

10 Twin Cities Locations • kidshairinc.com

Landmark Center

Landmark Center, a vibrant cultural hub in downtown Saint Paul, offers music, dance, theater, exhibitions, and family-friendly events. Enjoy the arts together in this beautiful National Historic Monument!

St Paul • landmarkcenter.org

Lake Area Discovery Center

A leader in Early Childhood Education since 1999, is NOW ENROLLING infants through age 5 at their 17 metro locations! Highlights include Faith-Based Learning, National Accreditation, a Four-Star Parent Aware Rating & Flexible Scheduling. Schedule your tour today!

Twin Cities Metro Area • ladcfamilies.org

Ages 1-12

PLAY

LOCAL PARTNER LISTINGS

Mis Amigos Preschool

Discover The #MisAmigosWay—The Twin Cities’ premier Spanish immersion preschool and child care! Serving infants to preschoolers (6 weeks–5 years) with play-based learning, music, and movement. NAEYC-accredited, 4-Star rated, and joyfully nurturing across five convenient locations. Twin Cities Metro Area misamigospreschool.com

Minnesota United FC

Calling all young soccer fans. Minnesota United FC Kids Club is here for you! Free memberships include Discounts, free events, and newsletters. Register today!

St. Paul • mnufc.com/kidsclub

Minnesota History Center

With inspiring exhibits, thoughtprovoking events, engaging speakers, and action-packed discovery, the History Center feeds your curiosity about Minnesota’s stories, people, and places. St Paul • mnhs.org/historycenter

Mill City Museum

Explore where old mingles with new at Mill City Museum, built into the ruins of what was once the world’s largest flour mill.

Minneapolis • mnhs.org/millcity

Minnesota Orchestra

Kids under 18 can experience the Minnesota Orchestra for free! All family and sensory-friendly concerts are free for children under 18 years old. Most Classical concerts are available for kids over six years old as well.

Minneapolis • minnesotaorchestra.org

Minnesota Children’s Museum

Minnesota Children’s Museum sparks children’s learning through play. Explore three floors of hands-on fun for the whole family! With 11 unique exhibit galleries, the museum is filled with open-ended, interactive play spaces where families have fun together and children take the lead.

LOCAL PARTNER LISTINGS

Music Together in the Valley

In these award-winning classes, we show parents and caregivers how to help their children become confident, lifelong music makers just by having fun making music themselves. Bond more closely with your child though song. Make new friends for you both. Join us for 45 minutes of PURE FUN each week!

Multiple Twin Cities Locations musictogetherclasses.org

MELSA

MELSA is the Twin Cities Metro regional library system, including the more than 100 public library branches in the 7-county metro.

St Paul • melsa.org

New Horizon Academy

Family-owned and operated New Horizon Academy has been providing the highest-quality childcare and education for more than 50 years. Now enrolling part-time and full-time in all age groups! Visit www. nhacademy.net to schedule a tour.

70+ Minnesota Locations newhorizonacademy.net

Navigating MSP Airport

Ease your anxiety about traveling with children with specials needs a practice run through MSP Airport. Minneapolis-St Paul International Airport mspairport.com/navigating

Nickelodeon Universe

Host your next birthday party at Nickelodeon Universe! Birthday party packages include a two-hour private party space overlooking the park, a five-hour Unlimited Ride Wristband for the birthday person, plus customizable themed decorations! Bloomington • mallofamerica.com

Oliver Kelley Farm

Experience the story of farming, food and agriculture — past and present! Explore the original 1860s working farm, and get an up close view of the animals and gardens. Elk River • mnhs.org/kelleyfarm

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LOCAL PARTNER LISTINGS

Saint Paul Brewing

O’Shea Irish Dance (OID)

Offering world-class Irish dance training, solo and team competition, and professional Irish dance and music shows, Led by Cormac O’Sé, T.C.R.G.(original Riverdance cast). Dancers of all ages train as athletes, artists, and performers in a supportive community, gaining confidence, fitness, and lifelong friendships.

St Paul • osheairishdance.com

Parent Aware

Parent Aware offers free resources to help families find quality child care and early education programs, including an online search tool, helpful guides, and phone support.

St. Paul • ParentAware.org

Sharkey’s Cuts For Kids

St Paul • tcmrm.org Visit minnesotaparent.com to sign up for our newsletter!

Haircuts are an adventure! Kids ride in cool cars, watch movies, and play Xbox while expert stylists create amazing styles. Balloons, lollipops, and mini manicures included—stress-free for parents, unforgettable fun for kids!

Apple Valley, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, White Bear Lake, Woodbury sharkeyscutsforkids.com

Split Rock Lighthouse

Behold 1000 watts of ship-stopping power! Experience the sights, the history, and the technology behind this signature Minnesota landmark anchored on the rocky coast of Lake Superior.

Two Harbors • mnhs.org/splitrock

Stages Theatre Co

We offer professional, youth-focused productions and a dynamic theater education program. Their classes, camps, and workshops inspire creativity, confidence, and collaboration, providing kids of all ages with hands-on theatrical experiences in acting, musical theater, and storytelling. Hopkins • stagestheatre.org/education

GREAT meet-up spot for friends, family, moms, dads, grandparents, kids. This is a brewpub restaurant with cozy conversation corners, seating vignettes, and tons of plants and fun pops of color. Kids meals available with a fun sippy cup. Free parking, chill vibes.

St Paul • stpaulbrewing.com

Schubert Club Music Museum

The Schubert Club Music Museum on the second floor of Landmark Center in downtown Saint Paul provides inspiration, learning, fun and interactivity through music. Music and history come to life as you hear and play instruments from around the globe.

St Paul • schubert.org/museum

Twin Cities Model Railway Museum

Enjoy a private party room for two hours plus access to all 14,000 square feet of interactive toy train layouts, play tables and more! Just bring the cake and the guests, we provide everything else!

A PLACE TO GROW

At the Y, we’re all about creating unforgettable experiences for kids!

Whether your child loves the outdoors, sports, swimming, or just having fun with friends, we have something for everyone this summer.

LOCAL PARTNER LISTINGS

The Fun Lab

The Fun Lab in Blaine, MN is the ultimate indoor entertainment center for kids! With thrilling attractions, exciting arcade games, and hassle-free birthday parties, we make every visit unforgettable. Safe, clean, and packed with fun—your kids will love it! Blaine • TheFunLabCenter.com

Tinker + Nudge Art Studio for Kids

Tinker + Nudge is a process-based art studio for kids located in South Minneapolis. What do we mean by “process-based” art studio? It just means we focus on the creative process - not the final product. Every project that goes home is as individual as your kiddo(s)! We offer art classes, workshops, playdates, birthday parties and camps where kids are encouraged to explore a wide range of materials and techniques including sculpture, printmaking, collage, drawing, and painting. We love to say, “I don’t know, let’s try it!” And, yes, we get messy! Minneapolis • tinkerandnudge.com

Urban Air Adventure Park

The Ultimate Indoor Adventure Park! With attractions that cater to any level of adventurer, there’s something fun for everyone.

Apple Valley, Plymouth & Coon Rapids urbanair.com

YMCA Early Childhood Learning Centers

At YMCA ECLC, kids aged 6 weeks to 5 years discover a safe and playful environment that nurtures social-emotional wellbeing, builds kindergarten readiness, and sparks a lifelong love of learning. No membership required. Financial assistance is available.

Twin Cities Metro and Greater Metro Locations ymcanorth.org/eclc

you looking for child care?

Your Twin Cities Metro Public Libraries are great places for

Spaces designed with kids— and their grownups—in mind.

Visit a library near you.