The Ultimate Family Guide to Exploring the Best Things to Do in Maple Grove, MN with Kids
Maple Grove, Minnesota, is a vibrant northwest suburb of Minneapolis. The city is known for its family-friendly amenities, scenic parks, and lively shopping and dining districts. And it’s one of the Twin Cities’ top spots for family fun, with activities that keep kids of all ages entertained year-round. With easy access to outdoor trails, indoor attractions, and kid-approved eateries, it’s a favorite destination for many Minnesota families.
Slide, splash, and swim all day long at the Venetian Waterpark. Bounce through the thrilling slides at Slick City Action Park. Or, enjoy a relaxed playdate at MiniSota Play Cafe. Of course, older kids love the games at Chuck E. Cheese! Meanwhile, nature lovers will find plenty to explore at Elm Creek Park Reserve, one of the best parks and playgrounds in Maple Grove. When it’s time to eat, you’ll find no shortage of Maple Grove restaurants for families. Each offers kid-friendly menus and a welcoming atmosphere. Use this guide to plan your next family adventure in Maple Grove (whether you need a quick family outing or are making a weekend of it!).
Here are the top 20 best things to do with kids in Maple Grove!
MiniSota Play Cafe
12055 Elm Creek Blvd N, Maple Grove, MN 55369
MiniSota Play Cafe is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Maple Grove with toddlers and young kids! This cozy and creative indoor space lets imagination take center stage. Designed with little ones in mind, this Minnesota-themed play area features “Mini Grove,” “Infant Grove Heights,“ and “Lake Minitonka”—tiny towns filled with a grocery store, cafe, hospital, and more.
Parents can relax with a cup of coffee in hand while their kids safely explore the play zone. It’s one of the most unique indoor activities in Maple Grove for kids, perfect for crawling babies through preschoolers. Open seven days a week, no reservations needed—bring socks (grippy for kids, regular for adults), and get ready for an indoor adventure that’s fun, safe, and creative.
Elm Creek Park Reserve
12400 James Deane Pkwy, Maple Grove, MN 55369
Elm Creek Park Reserve is a must-visit destination for families seeking outdoor activities in Maple Grove. It’s the largest park in the Three Rivers Park District. Elm Creek Park Reserve offers year-round fun—from hiking and biking trails to a swimming pond, mountain biking runs, and even a winter recreation area.
One of the biggest highlights for families is the colorful, mostly fenced playground (it’s one of the largest and best in the Twin Cities). With giant slides, rope structures, a sand pit featuring a buried dinosaur “skeleton,“ and dedicated areas for both big kids and toddlers, it’s a hit for all ages. Parents will appreciate the rubber play surface, the nearby indoor restrooms, and the free on-site parking.
Nature lovers will also enjoy spotting wildlife like sandhill cranes, deer, loons, and trumpeter swans. There are over 12 miles of hiking trails here!
And 20 miles of biking trails that are suitable for all skill levels and abilities. It’s also a hot spot in the winter, with a dedicated snow tubing park and winter trails for cross-country skiers and snowshoers. Whether you’re there to explore, play, or soak up the scenery, Elm Creek has something for everyone.
Fish Lake Regional Park
14900 Bass Lake Rd, Maple Grove, MN 55311
Fish Lake Regional Park is a local favorite among Maple Grove parks and playgrounds, offering lakeside adventure in every season. The park is stunning in fall when colorful maples reflect off the water. With picnic areas and connections to the Medicine Lake Regional Trail, Fish Lake Regional Park is a relaxing and activity-packed spot for families in every season. This park is also part of the Three Rivers Park District.
Families can swim at the sandy beach when visiting Fish Lake Regional Park in the summer. Or, enjoy a peaceful paddle on Fish Lake. Of course, many families enjoy hiking or biking along scenic trails. With 3.3 miles of paved and turf trails, there are plenty of options for strollers, scooters, and little explorers. This includes a 0.7-mile flat trail with rest stops and stunning lake views, making it perfect for younger kids. In winter, snowshoeing and ice fishing keep the fun going. Dog families will also appreciate the fully fenced-off leash area.
Central Park of Maple Grove & Central Park Ice Skate Loop
12000 Central Park Way, Maple Grove, MN 55369
Central Park offers year-round fun for families! As one of the top things to do in Maple Grove with kids, this thoughtfully designed, kid-centered space features endless activities for adventurers of all ages.
The massive playground features seven distinct play zones. It also features rubberized surfaces, sand areas, and standout amenities, including a 24-foot climbing tower and a 120-foot climbing wall. Not to mention four giant slides! It’s a dream for large families, with options to engage toddlers, big kids, and everyone in between. In the summer, kids will also love cooling off in the interactive splash fountain (which transforms into a glowing light show after sunset!).
Central Park of Maple Grove offers more than play equipment. Families can also stroll the labyrinth. Or, explore vibrant gardens filled with thousands of blooming perennials throughout the summer. Then, the expansive Great Lawn is ideal for picnics and kite flying. For a scenic walk, follow the park’s 0.83-mile trail loop. It connects to Maple Grove’s 55-mile trail system and nearby lakes.
Come winter, families can lace up their skates for the Central Park Ice Skating Loop. Twinkling lights and festive vibes surround this 810-foot refrigerated track. Free to enter and open daily in the winter (weather permitting), it’s a magical Twin Cities winter tradition. Skate rentals are also available at an affordable rate. With indoor bathrooms, a snack bar, and a cozy warming house, this park is built for fun in every season.
Weaver Lake Community Park
Address: 8401 Maple Grove Pkwy, Maple Grove, MN 55311
Weaver Lake Community Park stands out among the parks and playgrounds in Maple Grove. The park boasts 80 acres of lakeside fun and recreation for families to enjoy. It is an excellent choice for an active day outdoors! There is plenty of open space for running and playing.
Families love Weaver Lake Community Park for its two playgrounds and many walking and biking trails. Not to mention the sandy swimming beach (which is perfect for hot summer days!). The beach is open daily in summer. It features a viewing deck, concessions, and lifeguard supervision during peak hours. You can also cast a line from the fishing pier.
Make it a full day with a packed picnic or grill at the pavilion. End your day with a game of basketball or volleyball. With restrooms, free parking, and a wide range of amenities, Weaver Lake is a top pick for a full day of family fun in Maple Grove.
Slick City Action Park
10900 Fountains Dr., Suite 130, Maple Grove, MN 55369
If your kids are full of energy and love a thrill, Slick City Action Park is a must-visit! Designed for all ages, it is one of the most exciting kid-friendly activities in Maple Grove (especially when the weather isn’t cooperating!). This massive indoor playground is home to 14 giant dry slides (no water, just speed!). Additionally, there are air courts for playing basketball and dodgeball, a zipline, a trapeze, and even a five-level soft play area specifically designed for younger children.
Parents will appreciate the wide-open layout that keeps kids safely moving and having fun. Created by local parents who wanted more year-round fun for Minnesota families, this is the first Slick City location in the state—and it’s built for big adventure. Whether you’re celebrating or need a day of excitement, Slick City is full of action-packed memories waiting to happen. With so many unique features, it’s no wonder Slick City Action Park is one of our favorite indoor things to do with kids in Maple Grove!
Sky Zone Trampoline Park
16501 County Rd 30, Maple Grove, MN 55311
For families seeking fun activities in Maple Grove with kids, Sky Zone Trampoline Park is a fantastic way to jump, bounce, and burn off excess energy. Kids of all ages will love the Warrior Course. This ninja-style challenge will test their strength, agility, and speed with climbing walls, swinging ropes, and fun obstacles.
Once you’ve conquered the Warrior Course, there’s still plenty to explore! From wall-to-wall trampolines to the Foam Zone and Ultimate Dodgeball, this high-energy indoor park is packed with excitement. You can even test your skills at the Free Climb! Plus, littles have their own dedicated Toddler Zone. Whether you’re up for a family challenge day or just a fun activity on a rainy day, Sky Zone delivers the action. With friendly staff, safety-focused play zones, and options for toddlers through teens, it’s easy to see why this spot ranks among the best indoor attractions in Maple Grove.
WhirlyBall Twin Cities
13644 80th Cir N, Maple Grove, MN 55369
Looking for kid-friendly activities in Maple Grove that will keep your tweens and teens entertained? WhirlyBall Twin Cities offers nonstop indoor action with something for everyone! Start in the arcade, where you’ll find billiards, pop-a-shot, and classic video games.
Then, buckle up for the main event—WhirlyBall! This thrilling game combines elements of bumper cars, basketball, hockey, and lacrosse into a hilarious competition that’s perfect for families with older kids. Add in laser tag and escape rooms (with age and height requirements in place), and you’ve got a full day of excitement!
Between activities, refuel with a great meal from the WhirlyBall restaurant. The restaurant offers family-friendly favorites, including pizzas, sliders, and shareable snacks. This is also where parents can relax with big-screen sports (while older kids and teens play nearby!). With so many unique activities, WhirlyBall stands out as one of the best indoor activities for kids in Maple Grove. It’s packed with laughter, teamwork, and unforgettable memories!
Maple Grove Community Center & Grove Cove Aquatic Center
12951 Weaver Lake Rd, Maple Grove, MN 55369
The Maple Grove Community Center is a one-stop destination for families looking for fun things to do in Maple Grove with kids (rain or shine!)—head straight to the Maple Maze, a jungle-themed indoor playground for kids 12 and under. Younger kids will love the toddler area filled with gentle slides and colorful critters.
For water lovers, Grove Cove Aquatic Center features both indoor and outdoor pools with waterslides, a lazy river, a climbing wall, a rope swing, and splash areas—making it a year-round favorite for family fun.
Active kids can also enjoy the gymnasium, featuring open volleyball and pickleball courts. Or, Tot Time, a special play session for preschoolers. Older kids and teens can hang out at the Teen Center, where they’ll find video games, pool tables, and a welcoming space just for them. Whether you’re swimming, climbing, or just burning off energy, the Maple Grove Community Center has something for every member of the family!
Dave & Buster’s
11780 Fountains Way, Maple Grove, MN 55369
Looking for thrilling things to do in Maple Grove with kids that also satisfy hungry bellies? Dave & Buster’s is the ultimate family-friendly spot, combining great food with nonstop entertainment. The massive arcade features both classic and new games. Think Skee Ball, air hockey, and Connect 4 Hoops! The game floor guarantees fun for all ages. Imagine your kids cheering and laughing as they play. You may even be able to sneak off and enjoy your favorite games!
When it’s time to refuel, head to the on-site restaurant for a menu that pleases everyone in the family. Enjoy a variety of tasty menu items, including burgers, steaks, fresh salads, and kid-approved meals. With plenty of space and TVs streaming the latest sports, it’s also an excellent place for families to chill after a busy day exploring Maple Grove. Add in frequent food and game specials, plus a lively atmosphere, and it’s easy to see why Dave & Buster’s is a go-to destination for Maple Grove restaurants and an excellent place for families to have fun.
Chuck E. Cheese
12945 Elm Creek Blvd N, Maple Grove, MN 55369
Chuck E. Cheese in Maple Grove is where food, fun, and family time come together. This beloved, kid-approved spot goes beyond just cheesy pizza (though the pizza is a big win!). It’s an all-in-one destination packed with kid-friendly eats and activities for all ages.
Your little ones will love the dedicated toddler games, trampoline zone, and digital dance floor. The trampoline zone is a new addition for young visitors! The fenced trampoline area is located away from the big kids, allowing toddlers and young children to safely jump at their own pace (height restrictions apply). Meanwhile, older kids can race, shoot hoops, and test their skills on classic arcade games. Don’t miss the interactive console games, too! With the All You Can Play pass, the fun doesn’t stop. You and your kids can play to your heart’s content and rack up those e-tickets for prizes at the counter.
Parents can also sit back and enjoy casual dining while the kids explore a world of arcade thrills. The menu features several pizzas and shareable options, making it a great food option in Maple Grove for families. Chuck E. Cheese delivers smiles, snacks, and unforgettable memories.
The Original Pancake House
6322 Vinewood Ln N, Maple Grove, MN 55311
For a warm and welcoming breakfast spot, The Original Pancake House is a top choice among Maple Grove restaurants for families. Known for its rich history and nationally acclaimed recipes, this cozy eatery serves up delicious comfort food made with fresh ingredients.
The menu features classic breakfast favorites and specialty items that will truly wow your kids! And satisfy grown-up cravings, too. Don’t miss their famous Apple Pancake, bursting with sautéed apples and cinnamon sugar. Or, the Dutch Baby, a fluffy, oven-baked pancake dusted with powdered sugar.
With its laid-back atmosphere, friendly service, and crowd-pleasing dishes, The Original Pancake House is the perfect spot for a weekend brunch, birthday breakfast, or special morning out with your crew. Arrive hungry and leave happy—it’s a family favorite in Maple Grove for a reason!
Maple Grove Library
8001 Main St, Maple Grove, MN 55369
Looking for fun indoor things to do in Maple Grove with kids? Head to the Maple Grove Library! Little ones can explore a bright and welcoming children’s area that is filled with books and toys. Not to mention some exciting hands-on play opportunities! The children’s area is tucked away from the main library. And, the play area offers a calm, screen-free zone for curious young minds.
Families adore the interactive storytime sessions led by friendly, engaging librarians. Not to mention, the kid-friendly programming, such as Baby Storytime and the Stuffed Animal Sleepovers. There’s also a cozy reading porch (opens seasonally), perfect for curling up with a good book and some fresh air. With plenty of seating and activities for all ages, this library is more than just a place to check out books—it’s a go-to community spot for all ages. Whether it’s a rainy day escape or part of your weekly routine, Maple Grove Library is one of the top family-friendly places in the city.
Playground Plaza
11701 95th Ave N, Maple Grove, MN 55369
Playground Plaza is one of the best things to do in Maple Grove with toddlers and young kids—especially when the weather isn’t cooperating. This massive indoor playground is open 365 days a year and designed for kids ages 2 to 12.
The fully heated, air-conditioned space features a two-story jungle gym, toddler play area, grassy turf zone for kicking balls, a giant jumping pillow, and even oversized building blocks. Parents will appreciate the clean, secure environment and open café seating area (where you can bring your own snacks).
With easy online booking and no on-site staff, you simply purchase your pass through the website, receive a door code, and let the kids run wild—rain, shine, or snowstorm. Monthly memberships and 1-day passes are available. Playground Plaza is a go-to indoor destination for active play and family bonding!
Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant
12650 Elm Creek Blvd N, Maple Grove, MN 55369
For a festive family night out, Buca di Beppo stands out as one of the best restaurants in Maple Grove with kids. Known for its warm, quirky atmosphere and heaping family-style servings, Buca di Beppo serves up classic Italian-inspired favorites that bring everyone together around the table.
Kids and adults will love diving into shareable portions of pasta, pizza, and the legendary World Famous Meatballs. With large portions and endless options, we promise that no one leaves hungry! Choose from delicious options like the hearty lasagna, baked ziti, and chicken carbonara. Kids will also love trying tasty picks off their own menu. The lively dining rooms are filled with fun décor, including a table dedicated to the Pope. And the upbeat, kid-friendly vibes make even weeknight dinners feel like a celebration.
Located near Elm Creek Park, Buca di Beppo is an excellent spot to visit after a day of exploring. With a dedicated kids’ menu, big flavors, and enormous fun, it’s a top pick for family dinners when you want to eat well and have a great time!
Paris Baguette
7855 Elm Creek Blvd N, Maple Grove, MN 55369
From flaky croissants and savory selections to unique items (like pastel de nata—yum!), Paris Baguette brings a whimsical mix of sweet and savory treats to the heart of Maple Grove. This French-inspired bakery is beloved for its exquisite cakes, warm breads, and abundant pastry cases.
Using a self-serve model, kids can grab a tray and pick out their own goodies (making it a fun and interactive stop for families!). Plus, they offer a full menu of expertly crafted drinks to complement your selections. The space is bright and welcoming, featuring cozy seating for all families. Open daily, Paris Baguette is a delicious and unique addition to the best restaurants in Maple Grove with kids. It’s ideal for breakfast, a mid-day treat, or an afternoon pick-me-up that everyone will enjoy!
Benihana
11840 Fountains Way, Maple Grove, MN 55369
Benihana offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience in Maple Grove that’s perfect for families. Known for its lively teppanyaki-style cooking, this Japanese steakhouse lets you sit tableside as a personal chef chops, flips, and grills your meal right in front of you. From sizzling steak and shrimp to perfectly cooked vegetables, it’s dinner and a show all in one.
Kids love the fun and flair, while parents appreciate the flavorful dishes and fresh sushi options. Conveniently located on North Fountains Way, Benihana stands out among Maple Grove restaurants for families looking to share a memorable night out.
The Venetian Waterpark (inside the Holiday Inn & Suites)
11801 Fountains Way, Maple Grove, MN 55369
Make a BIG splash at one of the most unique things to do with kids in Maple Grove: the Venetian Indoor Waterpark. Located inside the Holiday Inn & Suites Maple Grove NW Mpls-Arbor Lks, this massive, hotel guest-only waterpark brings a taste of Italy to Minnesota.
The Venetian Indoor Waterpark features winding waterslides, splash zones, and a zero-depth entry pool perfect for toddlers. Big kids will love shooting hoops in the activity pool and climbing across the thrilling rope course. Meanwhile, parents can unwind in the spacious hot tub. Each feature will make you feel like you’re floating down a Venetian canal!
Best of all, the Venetian Waterpark is open year-round on weekends! It offers a weatherproof staycation that the whole family will love. Whether you’re celebrating, planning a Twin Cities mini getaway, or simply needing a fun family overnight, booking a stay here guarantees hours of screen-free adventure and unforgettable memories!
Have Fun Exploring Maple Grove with Your Kids!
From action-packed arcades to splashy waterparks and cozy breakfast spots, there’s no shortage of fun things to do with kids in Maple Grove. Start your day with pancakes piled high, then head to indoor attractions like WhirlyBall or the Maple Maze for hours of active fun. When the sun is shining, explore the many parks and playgrounds in Maple Grove, offering trails, summer beaches, and open spaces perfect for picnics. After all that adventure, refuel with kids at one of the best restaurants in Maple Grove, where menus are designed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. As you can see, Maple Grove is packed with kid-approved experiences that make it easy to plan a whole day—or weekend—of family fun!
Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam and on her website. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.
