With our massive indoor water park, amazing attractions, complimentary daily events and activities, and delicious dining options, there’s no shortage of ways to play.
Culinary Experiences & Food in Minneapolis
The city’s dining scene blends global flavors, inventive chefs, and welcoming atmospheres, making every meal an experience to savor. From refined tasting menus to casual neighborhood favorites, Minneapolis offers something to satisfy every palate.
An upscale destination known for its surf-and-turf specialties, craft cocktails, and inviting patio dining.
A rustic-chic restaurant in a renovated horse stable serving French-inspired dishes with a Midwestern twist.
A bustling hotspot offering acclaimed Italian cuisine, fresh pasta, and an extensive wine list.
An Argentine-inspired eatery featuring wood-fired steaks, empanadas, and bold, flavorful dishes.
A cozy neighborhood favorite serving classic French fare in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
6. Breweries
Minneapolis is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with favorites like HeadFlyer Brewing, Inbound BrewCo, and Surly Brewing Co. offering a variety of innovative brews to sample.
Family-Friendly Activities in Minneapolis
Minneapolis is packed with fun, educational, and interactive experiences the whole family can enjoy. From hands-on art projects to creative workshops and outdoor events, there’s no shortage of ways to explore, learn, and play together.
Spend the day at the Minneapolis Institute of Art creating art, hearing stories, and exploring galleries designed to inspire kids and adults alike.
2. Art in the Park
Join free community events in Minneapolis parks featuring creative activities for children and families of all ages.
Let kids’ imaginations run wild as they design and build their own structures in this interactive workshop at the Minneapolis Convention Center.
Minneapolis is a sports lover’s paradise, offering behind-the-scenes stadium tours, pro games, and world-class venues that celebrate both athletic excellence and architectural innovation.
Tour Target Field and experience the magnificence of the Minnesota Twins’ home. During guided tours, you'll see areas of the ballpark many guests normally don't see. These spaces may include the Herb Carneal Press Box, clubhouse, dugout, suite level, Metropolitan Club, Delta SKY360 Club, Budweiser Roof Deck, and Thompson Reuters Champions Club. Guests will be exposed to the art work, displays of memorabilia, environmental and sustainability features of Target Field, as well as Twins history. All public and private tours are wheelchair accessible, with complimentary wheelchairs available upon request.
U.S. Bank Stadium is a multi-purpose facility and home to the Minnesota Vikings. This state-of-the-art facility hosts prominent national and international programming including the Minnesota Vikings, concerts, family shows, college and high school sporting events, conventions, trade/consumer shows, and corporate or private meetings and other community events. U.S. Bank Stadium has been chosen as the site of the Summer X Games (2017 and 2018), Super Bowl LII (2018) and the NCAA Men’s Final Four (2019). The stadium’s innovative translucent ETFE roofing has inspired numerous other NFL stadium designs.
History and Learning in Minneapolis
Minneapolis offers fascinating ways to explore its past, from industrial landmarks to immersive museums. Visitors can step inside historic sites, take guided tours, and discover how the city’s riverfront and milling industry shaped its growth and culture.
Take a guided walking tour of the Minneapolis riverfront to uncover the city’s milling history and the importance of St. Anthony Falls, then explore exhibits inside the Washburn A Mill Complex for an up-close look at this industrial icon.
A small but rich museum exploring the history of Hennepin County, with rotating exhibits on local stories, artifacts, and influential figures.
Housed in the historic Turnblad Mansion, this museum blends Minneapolis history with Swedish-American culture, architecture, and art.
Step inside Minneapolis’ first skyscraper, learn about its 1920s origins, and take in panoramic city views from the open-air observation deck.
Things to Do in Bloomington, MN This Weekend
Looking for fun things to do in Bloomington Minnesota? From family attractions to unique museums, this city offers plenty to explore within minutes of Minneapolis. Whether you’re planning a day at a water park in Minneapolis or Bloomington, strolling scenic trails, or visiting interactive museums, Bloomington has activities for everyone.
Great Wolf Lodge MN is a premier indoor water park in Bloomington, just minutes from Minneapolis, perfect for year-round family fun. Kids can splash through multi-level play zones, ride thrilling slides, and float along a relaxing lazy river, while adults enjoy cozy cabanas and on-site dining.
The resort also offers interactive attractions like MagiQuest and a climbing wall, making it much more than just a Minneapolis water park . Whether you’re staying overnight or visiting for a day pass, this Bloomington water park is an ideal destination for family getaways and group outings alike.
Mall of America® is located in Bloomington, Minnesota—only 15 minutes from downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul. As one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world, Mall of America features over 500 stores. Some attractions at the Mall of America include: SEA LIFE® Minnesota Aquarium; The LEGO Store; American Girl Minneapolis and more. Great Wolf Lodge to Mall of America[HB9] is only a 5-minute drive!
The refuge is part of a corridor of land and water stretching nearly 70 miles along the Minnesota River, from Bloomington to Henderson, Minnesota. Comprised of more than 14,000 acres, the refuge offers a variety of free outdoor recreational experiences for individuals and families.
Normandale Community College's Japanese Garden is a two-acre oasis on its campus in Bloomington, Minnesota. The garden is open year-round at no charge, except when reserved for special events.
This sprawling park is perfect for hiking, biking, and spotting wildlife, offering beautiful views and plenty of outdoor recreation just minutes from downtown Bloomington.
Step into mind-bending exhibits where optical illusions and interactive displays challenge your senses and spark curiosity for visitors of all ages.
Fuel your creativity with giant play tables, build-your-own projects, and unique LEGO sets at this ultimate stop for brick enthusiasts in the Mall of America.
Located inside Mall of America, this indoor theme park delivers thrilling rides, family attractions, and colorful Nickelodeon characters under one roof.
Walk through underwater tunnels and discover sharks, sea turtles, and tropical fish at this immersive aquarium experience in Bloomington (Mall of America).
Shop for fresh produce, handmade goods, and local treats while enjoying live music and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Escape into nature with peaceful walking and biking paths that wind through Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, perfect for spotting birds and native plants.
Hands-on science and engineering exhibits make this museum a hit with curious kids, encouraging creativity and problem-solving through play.
Challenge your friends to a fast-paced mashup of basketball, hockey, and bumper cars in this unique team sport that’s as fun to watch as it is to play.
Things to Do in St. Paul, MN This Weekend
Saint Paul offers a perfect mix of culture, history, and family fun, making it an ideal weekend destination in Minnesota. Whether you’re into live sports, hands-on learning, or exploring local gems, the city has something for every age and interest.
A modern, soccer-specific stadium that’s home to Minnesota United FC and known for its fan-focused design and electric game-day atmosphere.
Explore interactive science exhibits, a massive dinosaur hall, and an impressive Omnitheater perfect for curious minds of all ages.
Tour this beautifully restored landmark to learn about Minnesota’s history, government, and striking architecture.
Step back in time at this 19th-century military fort where costumed interpreters bring early Minnesota history to life.
Visit this free zoo and botanical garden featuring exotic animals, lush plant collections, and scenic walking paths.
Play artist-designed mini golf, arcade games, and enjoy quirky cocktails in this creative indoor amusement space.
Hands-on exhibits encourage kids to climb, splash, and explore through imaginative play.
Experience one of the nation’s oldest winter festivals, filled with ice sculptures, parades, and family fun.
Savor innovative small plates and craft cocktails at this playful, modern Saint Paul restaurant.
