8 Fun Things to Do with Kids in Minneapolis

Looking for creative ways to keep your kids entertained in the Minneapolis and St. Paul area? You’re in luck! The Twin Cities region is packed with family-friendly attractions that offer everything from active outdoor adventures to engaging learning experiences. If your children prefer splashing around at a local lake, exploring hands-on museum exhibits, or settling in for a cozy story time at the library, this is the place for them. We’ll dive into some of the most exciting spots to help you plan memorable outings, spark your kids’ curiosity, and make the most of family time in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

Minnesota Children’s Museum

Address: 10 West Seventh St, St. Paul, MN 55102

The Minnesota Children’s Museum is a vibrant, hands-on destination designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning in kids of all ages. With interactive exhibits that let children explore everything from science experiments to imaginative pretend play, it offers countless opportunities for hands-on discovery. With creative exhibits like “Forces at Play,” “Our World,” and a multi-story climbing structure known as “The Scramble,” kids can experiment, pretend, and burn off energy while gaining valuable problem-solving and social skills. The museum’s thoughtful design caters to different ages and developmental stages, as well as its regular themed events and rotating exhibits that keep each visit feeling fresh for frequent fliers. Overall, the museum’s immersive, play-based approach ensures that children are both entertained and inspired to learn, making it a standout family-friendly attraction in the Twin Cities.

Review their calendar of events and hours here.

Summer Music at Town Green

Address: 7991 Main St N, Maple Grove, MN 55369

The free summer concerts at Town Green in Maple Grove are a fantastic community tradition that offers kid-focused live entertainment in a beautiful outdoor setting. On Thursday mornings, families can gather on blankets and lawn chairs at the scenic bandshell, enjoying music, dancing, and sunshine for no cost! With restrooms, concessions, and ample free on-site parking, it’s easy to relax and watch little ones run around, play, or even join the show. The venue’s lakefront backdrop and laid-back vibe make these weekly events an enjoyable way to bring families together in the spirit of summer fun.

Each concert spotlights a different performer or act—from lively kids’ bands and acoustic sing-alongs to dance parties and whimsical puppet shows—so there’s always something fresh and exciting. Performers encourage plenty of audience participation, inviting children to clap, jump, and sing along. These free music events for younger kids are a summertime highlight for families in the northern Twin Cities area! Older kids may even enjoy the other free music offerings in the evenings, as well!

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Como Park Zoo & Conservatory

Address: 1225 Estabrook Dr, St. Paul, MN 55103

Como Park is a fantastic destination for families looking for budget-friendly fun—admission is free (with a voluntary donation), and there’s plenty for kids to explore. The zoo features a variety of popular animals like lions, giraffes, zebras, and gorillas, giving kids the chance to observe wildlife up close and learn about conservation. A highlight for many young visitors is the Sparky the Sea Lion show, a local celebrity who reigns supreme in my childhood memories. Meanwhile, the adjacent conservatory showcases beautiful themed gardens, like the tropical rainforest and sunken garden, providing a vibrant environment where kids can experience nature’s diversity year-round.

Beyond the zoo and conservatory, Como Park offers additional kid-friendly activities for a full day of exploration. Families can enjoy a spin on the Cafesjian’s Carousel—an antique merry-go-round with hand-carved horses—or visit Como Town, a small amusement park featuring rides and games for younger children. Picnic areas and walking paths around Como Lake allow for leisurely breaks and seasonal events like Zoo Boo or the Holiday Flower Show add variety throughout the year. Overall, Como Park is an engaging, family-oriented spot that combines animal encounters, interactive exhibits, and a welcoming park environment—all at a price accessible to everyone.

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The Mall of America

Address: 60 E Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425

As every Midwest mom knows, the Mall of America is a mega-destination offering countless family-friendly activities and events that cater to children of all ages. Visitors can explore Nickelodeon Universe (previously Camp Snoopy, a change my inner child will never adjust to)—an expansive indoor amusement park with rides and attractions featuring beloved cartoon characters—or dive into immersive fun at the Crayola Experience, where kids can unleash their creativity by crafting their own crayons and engaging in colorful hands-on projects. Other highlights include the Sea Life Aquarium, where little ones can walk through underwater tunnels and spot sharks, rays, and tropical fish. But, for those families looking for more budget-friendly activities and less shopping, the mall also hosts special events throughout the year ranging from character meet-and-greets to seasonal celebrations, ensuring that families always have something new and exciting to discover.

One of the most popular recurring programs for young children is Toddler Tuesdays, a weekly event designed to engage and entertain preschool-age visitors (generally ages six and under). Held on Tuesday mornings, it often features interactive story times, live performances, craft sessions, and exclusive ride deals at Nickelodeon Universe. Local organizations and businesses frequently collaborate to offer educational activities—from simple science experiments to musical play—helping little ones learn through fun, hands-on experiences. Parents can also utilize discounts available at select restaurants and stores during Toddler Tuesdays, making what could be an expensive weekly ritual a budget-friendly outing.

Twins Baseball Games

Address: Target Field, 1 Twins Way, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Taking children to a Minnesota Twins game at Target Field can be a fun experience for the whole family. The ballpark’s open-air design provides a laid-back summer atmosphere, making it easy for little ones to move around without feeling cooped up. Friendly staff, various concession options, and plenty of restrooms (some with family-friendly facilities) help ensure a stress-free outing. Kids especially love meeting TC Bear, the Twins’ playful mascot, who often roams the stands greeting fans and posing for photos.

Special promotions are geared toward younger fans on select game days—like Kids Day on Sundays, where children can run the bases after the game, receive free giveaways, or even snag special ticket deals. Consider areas near the main concourse or lower-level sections if you want seats that keep kids close to the action but also allow quick access to concessions and restrooms. Families on a budget can snag standing-room-only tickets, often for as little as $4. This is nice for little ones who probably won’t be ultra-focused on the game anyway; pop back and forth between the game and the play areas in the stadium. While parking downtime is sometimes challenging, Target Field hosts a light rail station, making it easier to park in a larger lot outside the city and unload strollers onto the train. Ultimately, with the right planning, a Twins game offers a lively, family-oriented environment where children can soak up the excitement of baseball while creating lasting memories.

Splash Pads

Address: Around Minneapolis and the suburbs

Free splash pads around the Twin Cities offer an exciting and budget-friendly way for families to cool off during the warm summer months. These community-managed outdoor water playgrounds are often located in public parks and provide fun, interactive features such as spraying fountains, misting arches, and dumping buckets that delight children of all ages. Parents appreciate the casual, come-and-go atmosphere where little ones can splash around and burn off energy, usually with nearby picnic areas or playgrounds for a full day of recreation. Many MN cities maintain their own splash pads—like those in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Maple Grove, and Eagan—so families can easily find one close to home or make a mini road trip to explore a new spot or establish a favorite. Best of all, free admission makes splash pads a consistently appealing summer outing that combines exercise, water play, and community fun without breaking the bank.

Lake Activities

Address: Around Minneapolis and the suburbs

Minnesota isn’t known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes for nothing. In addition to enjoying free splash pads in local parks, families can explore the many lake activities the Cities offers. The Chain of Lakes—encompassing spots like Bde Maka Ska, Lake Harriet, Lake Nokomis, and Lake of the Isles—offers sandy beaches for swimming and sandcastle-building and paved paths perfect for stroller walks or bike rides. Many of these lakeside parks feature playgrounds, picnic areas, and rentable watercraft such as kayaks or paddleboards, giving children a chance to enjoy gentle waves and develop basic boating skills in a safe environment. Fishing from the shore (or off a dock) is another popular pastime, offering little ones an exciting introduction to local aquatic life. Adding to the fun, summertime often brings live music at the Lake Harriet Bandshell or seasonal food stands, creating a laid-back, community-focused atmosphere that invites families to spend the entire day lakeside.

If Minneapolis or St. Paul lakes are too populated for you, I can guarantee that your local area has a lake or two open to the public for a variety of activities! Think Lake Minnetonka, White Bear Lake, or even Lake Mille Lacs.

Hennepin County Library Programs

Address: 347 E 36th St, Minneapolis, MN 55408

Taking kids to a Hennepin County Library branch can be an enriching and low-cost outing that supports a lifelong love of learning. The library features welcoming children’s sections filled with age-appropriate books, interactive displays, and comfortable reading nooks, allowing little ones to explore stories at their own pace. This location and many branches offer regular story times, craft sessions, and special programs—such as book clubs or STEM activities. Beyond traditional books, families can check out music, movies, or even learning kits, providing diverse resources that cater to different interests and learning styles.

Families can also take advantage of free Wi-Fi, computers, and reading areas to make homework, reading practice, or digital learning feel more relaxed and accessible. With multiple locations throughout Hennepin County, a trip to the library is not only educational but also an opportunity for kids to connect with others in a safe, encouraging space.

Bonus - Paul Bunyan Land

Address: 17553 State Highway 18, Brainerd, MN 56401

While this is a drive north of the Twin Cities in Brainerd, Paul Bunyan Land is receiving an honorable mention because it’s one of the most Minnesota places to take children! The legend of Paul Bunyan, the giant lumberjack, says that his footprints created the lakes in the north, along with the help of his giant blue ox, Babe. When families enter the park, they’re greeted by a giant animatronic Paul who calls out visitors by name, delighting children and setting a playful tone. Inside, the park blends classic amusement rides—like a Ferris wheel and carousel—with Paul Bunyan-themed attractions, ensuring there’s something for a variety of ages. Younger kids can explore the petting barn or try their hand at gem mining, while older children and adults might enjoy classic carnival games or the vintage Pioneer Village, complete with historical displays and interactive exhibits. Paul Bunyan Land captures the charm of small-town Midwestern fun, making for a memorable family outing that both entertains and introduces little ones to a bit of Minnesotan legend!