Nickelodeon Universe is a full amusement park inside Mall of America. Photo by the author

Fun Things to Do in Minneapolis and St. Paul with Kids

1. Nickelodeon Universe at Mall of America

"A roller coaster going through the mall? Amazing!" These were the exact words of my daughters when we arrived at the Nickelodeon Universe amusement park. There are over 25 rides that will appeal to kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens, as well as opportunities to meet beloved characters like members of the PAW Patrol. We enjoyed the thrill of the high-speed Fairly Odd Coaster, and when we all got tired, it was nice to relax on the Dora the Explorer-themed Ferris wheel.

2. SEA LIFE at Mall of America

The largest aquarium in Minnesota, SEA LIFE is home to thousands of underwater creatures like rescued sea turtles, giant sharks, and the only sawfish in the state. It's really cool watching them swim over your head in the 300-foot-long underwater tunnel, one of the highlights of a visit here. Families also love seeing crocodiles and poisonous frogs in the rainforest exhibit and touching sea stars and sea anemones in the Pacific Northwest rock pool.

RELATED: Mall of America's Most Amazing Attractions for Kids of All Ages

Design your own fashion model at Crayola Experience. Photo by the author

3. Crayola Experience at Mall of America

My daughters live to create, so they always enjoy a trip to Crayola Experience (there are four of them in the US). The Minneapolis installment does not disappoint, with 20 hands-on activities like drip art, molding your own crayon, starring in your own coloring page, and designing your own runway fashion model to see on a big screen. Inside tip: Tickets are slightly cheaper if you purchase them ahead of time online.

4. Indoor Playgrounds and Trampoline Parks

Since the weather often turns soggy and snowy in Minneapolis, the area has a ton of fun indoor playgrounds. One of our favorites is Adventure Peak at Edinborough Park, a one-acre, fully enclosed park in Edina with a 37-foot-tall play structure, a junior Olympic-size swimming pool, and a lush atmosphere. Families also love the foam forest, walk-on piano, and tightrope walk at the Eagles Nest in New Brighton and the giant slides and tree house vibes at the Backyard Indoor Playground in Golden Valley.

5. Ice Skating

Go for a spin around one of Minneapolis' indoor ice rinks. The Richfield Ice Arena offers open skate on Sundays through Fridays. Parade Ice Garden holds open skate most days of the week for a very affordable price. And when the weather cooperates, there are plenty of outdoor ice rinks, too.

RELATED: Best Children's Theaters in the US

Children's Theatre Company brings popular kids' stories to life. Photo courtesy of the theater

6. Children's Theatre Company

See kid classics like Annie and How the Grinch Stole Christmas come alive on stage at this theater located next to the Minneapolis Institute of Art (another one of the best things to do in Minneapolis). Stage productions are tailor-made for families, with plenty of humor and brightly-colored costumes and sets. Visitors also appreciate the comfortable seats. Children's Theatre Company is a great way to introduce preschoolers on up to the world of theater.

7. Pro Sports Games

Professional sports are a big part of Minnesota culture. Feel the excitement of a live game with your family at one of Minneapolis' many sporting venues. The NBA's Timberwolves and the WNBA'S Lynx play basketball at the Target Center downtown. NFL fans can watch the Vikings play inside the enclosed US Bank Stadium. Take hockey fans to Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul to see the NHL's Wild on the ice. In the warmer months, watch the Twins play baseball downtown at Target Field, or cheer on the Minnesota United FC soccer team at Allianz Field in St. Paul.

RELATED: The Best Children's Museums in the US

Perform science experiments at the Science Museum of Minnesota. Photo courtesy of the museum

Best Minneapolis/St. Paul Museums for Kids

8. Science Museum of Minnesota

Curious young minds are bound to be stimulated by the cool exhibits at this science museum, which include dinosaur fossils, an experiment gallery, and a "collector's corner" where kids can bring in objects they find outdoors to trade for other natural treasures. Visitors can also explore the universe in the astronomy area and learn the science behind athleticism in the Sportsology exhibit. With so many interactive elements, expect to spend at least three hours at this museum.

9. Minneapolis Institute of Art

The MIA is one of the largest art museums in the US and is home to more than 90,000 works of art. Don't be intimidated by this, though—it's very family-friendly. There's a cute drop-in kids' space with books, toys, and little-kid furniture, and the museum regularly hosts family events. Plus, young art lovers will be inspired by what's on display, including African masks and sculptures, suits of armor and weaponry, and the mysterious Lady Tashat mummy. Admission is free!

10. Minnesota Children's Museum

There are three floors of interactive exhibits at this St. Paul children's museum. Kids can get their wiggles out on the Scramble, a four-story climber with a giant slide and a catwalk. Youngsters into pretend play will love Our Town, a little city where children can run the fire station, become postal workers, and man the register at a hardware store. The museum also features a water-play room, science experiments, and a rooftop terrace with a sensory garden.

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Step inside the ruins of what was once the world's largest flour mill at Mill City Museum. Photo courtesy of the museum

11. Mill City Museum

This unique museum was built within the ruins of what was once the world’s largest flour mill. Walking around it really does feel like stepping back in time. In the Water Lab, kids can get their hands wet while learning about the power of the Mississippi River (the museum is located on the banks of it). In the Baking Lab, families can catch cooking demos and try samples of fresh-baked treats. Be sure to hit the museum's observation deck for some stunning views of the city, too.

12. Bakken Museum

If you are looking for a STEM attraction, I present to you the Bakken. Founded by one of the people behind Medtronic, this museum explores the history of electricity through interactive exhibits. Young visitors love getting spooked in Frankenstein's Laboratory (recommended for ages 9 and up), making their own stop-motion films in the animation studio, and joining in on "Ben Franklin's electricity party," where they can make their hair rise by cranking up a generator. Bonus: Children 3 and under are free.

13. Minnesota History Center

Part museum, part library, this center in downtown St. Paul has educational material that both kids and parents will approve of. A weather exhibit lets visitors experience the power of a tornado, while children love climbing and sliding through a model grain elevator in a section focused on Minnesota farming. The Gale Family Library houses thousands of old photos, newspaper articles, and other archives related to the state's history. This is a great place for a budding researcher or bookworm.

14. Minnesota Transportation Museum

Open only on Wednesdays and Saturdays, this St. Paul museum deserves a mention for all of the train lovers out there. There are 50 historic train cars that kids can explore, as well as old-timey equipment and photos. On Saturdays, visitors can watch live blacksmith demonstrations and take a 15-minute ride on a vintage caboose as part of their admission. Got a toddler? Be sure to check the museum's calendar for its Tots & Trains program, which features a train-themed story and craft.

15. The Works

This awesome engineering and design museum is located just 10 minutes from the Mall of America and is the perfect spot for kids who love STEM. This museum is designed for kids ages 5-12 and is full of hands-on architectural and building challenges, from the K'NEX exhibit to LEGO brick interactives.

16. Bell Museum

Minnesota's natural history museum is located on the University of Minnesota's Twin Cities campus in St. Paul. Highlights include a planetarium, life-sized dioramas, and the Touch and See Lab where you can get up close with the museum's collection of fossils, gardens, and more.

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The red fox is one of nearly 5,000 animals that live at the Minnesota Zoo. Photo courtesy of the zoo

Outdoor Things To Do in Minneapolis and St. Paul with Kids

17. Minnesota Zoo — Apple Valley

Visit the nearly 5,000 animals that reside at the Minnesota Zoo. One of the largest zoos in the country, it's home to a wide variety of species including bison, bats, wild horses, and snow monkeys. Discovery Bay is the on-site aquarium where kids can touch sharks, rays, and sea stars. There's also a couple of playgrounds, a carousel, an IMAX theater, and a family farm that's open seasonally. Needless to say, an outing to this zoo will likely be an all-day adventure.

18. Lake Harriet

This scenic Minneapolis hot spot is the perfect outdoor family destination with free trolley rides; two beaches; canoe, kayak, and paddle boat rides; fishing; bike paths, a playground; and lakeside concerts. Grab a bite at Bread & Pickle, and in the winter, see the frozen lake transformed into a creative wonderland during the beloved annual Art Shanty Projects. 

19. Chain of Lakes Regional Park

They don't call Minnesota the land of 10,000 lakes for nothing. This group of five lakes, located about five miles southwest of downtown Minneapolis, has a ton to offer in the way of water play. Swim, rent kayaks and paddle boards, go fishing, or just lounge on one of the beaches at this park, which is open year-round. On land, there are bike trails, a playground, a bird sanctuary, and a rose garden. If you visit during the summer, check the park's calendar for live music and other events.

20. Midtown Greenway

Take the kids to bike, rollerblade, walk, or enjoy a stroller ride on the Midtown Greenway. This 5.7-mile trail follows the path of an abandoned route of the Milwaukee Road railway. The Greenway consists of two one-way bike lanes and a two-way walking path, though they're combined in some places. It can get congested at certain times of the day, so be sure to help your little ones mind the traffic.

21. Woodridge Park — Cottage Grove

The largest inclusive playground in Minnesota, Woodridge Park has something for kids of all ages and abilities. The 23,000-foot playground has swings, spinners, slides, climbers, zip lines, and a musical instrument area. Add to that basketball courts, a baseball field, a splash pad, and a seasonal ice rink and it's no wonder this park is a favorite with locals.

22. Stone Arch Bridge

Perhaps you've seen this iconic bridge in images of downtown Minneapolis. Built during the 1880s for rail transportation, it's now recognized as a National Civil Engineering Landmark. Pedestrians can walk or bike across the bridge while taking in panoramic views of St. Anthony Falls, the Mississippi River's only natural waterfall. There is a visitor's center with restrooms at one end of the bridge. It generally takes about 25 minutes to complete the route.

23. Big Stone Mini Golf

This hidden gem features 14 clever mini golf holes with names like “Eye of the Donut” and “Gently Down the Stream.” Admission to this unique course also gets you into the Big Stone Sculpture Garden. Keep your eyes open for friendly roaming farm animals and wild life, plus a massive fire pit with free marshmallows for roasting in the winter.

24. Centennial Lakes Park — Edina

The beautiful and charming Centennial Lakes Park offers scenic walking paths, paddle boating (with boats that look like rubber duckies!), mini golf, and open green spaces that host lots of family-friendly events. In the winter, it becomes a perfect spot for outdoor skating. 

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Don't miss Minnehaha Regional Park's 53-foot waterfall. Photo by Mikael Häggström

25. Minnehaha Regional Park

Natural eye candy awaits your family at one of Minneapolis' oldest and most popular parks. Minnehaha Regional Park features 170 acres of lush greenery, limestone bluffs, seasonal wading pools, river overlooks, and historic buildings. The park's highlight is its majestic 53-foot waterfall, which continuously ranks as Minnesota's most photographed site. Admission and parking are both free!

26. Minneapolis Sculpture Garden

Tour this 11-acre park, home to more than 40 sculptures. They include the quirky Spoonbridge and Cherry, a sculptural fountain featuring a giant spoon with a large cherry resting atop it (kids love this one). The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is free, requires no tickets for admission, and is open from 6am to midnight every day of the year.

27. Como Park Zoo and Conservatory

This free, family-friendly zoo in St. Paul is the perfect budget-friendly outing. Its small size makes it ideal for visiting with young kids who will love the wide range of animals, from lions and gorillas to polar bears and sea lions. Bonus: The Como Town Amusement Park is located right next to the zoo. 

Best St. Paul and Minneapolis Restaurants for Families

28. Litt Pinball Bar

Grab a bite or an adult beverage while the kids play a round of pinball! This locally-owned pinball restaurant boasts a super-fun and laid-back atmosphere, with an impressive collection of pinball machines. The menu features kid-friendly bites like hot dogs, tacos, burgers, and sandwiches. Take note that machines operate on quarters, and after 8pm the bar only welcomes guests 21 and older.   

29. Punch Bowl Social

Great meal in a fun atmosphere? Yes, please! Grab an early dinner before the party crowd arrives at Punch Bowl Social and take advantage of its vintage arcade, bowling lanes, and free games like darts and corn hole. The restaurant is known for its burgers and tacos, but it also has yummy shareable dishes like queso and chips.

30. Hot Plate

Hot Plate serves up delicious brunch items like biscuits and gravy and waffles in a restaurant that's full of kitschy decor. Kids love the board games, the classic dolls on display, and the wall of paint-by-number masterpieces. The only drawback is that lines can get long on weekends, so go early if possible.

31. Tilia

A favorite with locals since 2011, Tilia has a three-course kids menu that goes beyond chicken fingers. Little ones can start off with an appetizer like house-made chips and salsa before moving on to an entree such as Spaghetti Juni (a sophisticated name for buttered noodles), then cap it all off with a chocolate chip cookie. For the adults, there's fresh seafood, pasta, and other new American plates.

32. Market at Malcolm Yards

Young and adventurous eaters love the choices offered at this trendy food hall, where families can get sushi, pizza, vegan meals, and more.

33. Sweet Science — Edina

Indulge that sweet tooth at this small-batch ice cream spot that features unique flavors (sweet corn blueberry, oatmeal cookie, and banana cream pie are just a few), all made with no corn syrup.

34. Taste of Scandinavia

Get your pastry, pie, and cake fix at this local chain, which has a bakery that will make anyone's mouth water.

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Soak up the family fun during a stay at Great Wolf Lodge.

Best Hotels for Families in Minneapolis/St. Paul

35. Great Wolf Lodge

The water park at the Minneapolis location of this popular family resort features giant tube slides, a four-story water tree house, a wave pool, and a lazy river, among its other thrill rides. Kids also love the resort's out-of-the-water attractions, like MagiQuest, a wizardly, role-playing scavenger hunt and game. There are a variety of fun suites for families who choose to stay here, but day passes are also available for those who just want to enjoy the water park.

36. Holiday Inn & Suites Maple Grove

Guests note the cleanliness of this Venetian-inspired Holiday Inn just off I-94 in Maple Grove. Of course, the big draw for kids is the hotel's indoor water park, which features two water slides, a floating obstacle course, basketball hoops, and a toddler splash zone. There's also an arcade and an on-site restaurant, at which kids 11 and under eat free with adults. Plus, families who stay here are within walking distance of a Chik-fil-A and a Benihana.

37. Graduate by Hilton

With dark colors, tartan furniture, and a cozy fireplace, the Graduate Hotel has a warm, woodsy vibe to it. It also feels very collegiate, and that's no wonder as it's located right in the heart of the University of Minnesota campus (a neon sign in the lobby states, "We are All Students"). Families love the clean rooms, the hotel's air hockey tables, and its proximity to local restaurants and shops. Weary parents also love that there is a Starbucks connected to the hotel.

38. Best Western Bloomington Edina

Visiting the Mall of America? Stay minutes away from it at the Best Western Bloomington Edina, which features ample parking, a heated indoor pool, and complimentary breakfast each morning. There's nothing super fancy here, but plenty of convenience for families.

What to Pack for a Trip to Minneapolis

• Comfortable walking shoes: There are lots (and lots!) of lakes to explore, most of which are surrounded by beautiful parks and trails.  
• Layers: Weather throughout the year changes quickly.
• Winter gear: Visiting in the tundra (err... winter)? Bundle up in your most serious winter-weather gear.
• Swimsuits and towels: Don't forget these for long lake days in the warmer months and indoor pool dips in the winter. 
• Snacks and refillable water bottles  
• A stroller or carrier to make the most out of this walkable city with your littles in tow.

FAQs about Visiting Minneapolis with Kids

Is Minneapolis family-friendly?
You betcha, as the Minnesotans say. Minneapolis's lakes alone offer endless outdoor fun, from boating and swimming in the summer to ice skating when it’s cold... and it gets verrrry cold.

What are the best things to do in Minneapolis with kids?
Our top picks are the Minnesota Children’s Museum, the Science Museum of Minnesota, biking around the Chain of Lakes or Lake Harriet and, of course, the Mall of America's indoor theme park.

What is the best time to visit Minneapolis with kids?
While we love Minneapolis all year long, the winter is cold. Like, colder than cold. Our vote for a visit is late spring through early fall (May - September).

Are there free things to do in Minneapolis with children?
Yes! Minnehaha Falls, Como Zoo, local playgrounds, seasonal festivals, and even the Minneapolis Institute of Art are all free and open to the public. 

How many days should I spend in Minneapolis with my family?
Plan to spend at least two to four days to get the most out of your Twin Cities excursion.

Additional reporting by Liz Baill

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