15 FREE Can’t Miss Indoor Activities for Families in the Twin Cities
Don’t stay stuck inside with your kids all winter! There are plenty of FREE ways to get out of the house and keep the kids entertained without braving the cold for too long. From hands-on exhibits at free museums in Minneapolis and Saint Paul to family-friendly nature centers and animal encounters, there’s no shortage of fun (and free!) winter activities and kid-friendly things to do in Minnesota.
Read about birds at Richardson Nature Center. Explore interactive fun at the Schubert Club Music Museum. Or, learn something new at the Minnesota State Capitol. Need even more energy-burning ideas in the Twin Cities? Try Como Park Zoo’s tropical rainforest or the indoor play area at your local library. Whether your crew loves animals, history, or creative play, this list of free winter things to do in the Twin Cities with kids will keep everyone busy—and your wallet happy—all season long.
Tour the Minnesota State Capitol
75 Rev Dr Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard, St Paul, MN 55155
Looking for free winter things to do in Saint Paul with kids? Step inside the Minnesota State Capitol for an unforgettable afternoon. This historic landmark offers free guided tours (Monday through Saturday). Families can explore grand marble staircases, breathtaking murals, and the golden Quadriga statues. Kids will be amazed by the soaring dome—one of the world’s largest self-supported marble domes—and might even get the chance to step onto the terrace for a spectacular city view.
Prefer a slower pace? Self-guided tours let you take in the art, architecture, and history at your own speed. Whether learning how laws are made or spotting intricate details in the stunning rotunda, the Minnesota State Capitol is the perfect place for a fun winter outing with your kids—without spending a dime! No wonder it’s one of the best indoor activities for kids in the Twin Cities!
Nature Center with Indoor Interpretive Centers
Nature centers rank among our favorite free winter activities for kids in the Twin Cities. Across the metro area, nature centers offer indoor exhibits that enhance outdoor learning and adventure. These indoor centers and play areas often offer cozy reading nooks, small toys (like puppets!), informational exhibits, rescued animals, and more.
Families can trek peaceful trails at the Tamarack Nature Center in White Bear Lake. Bundle up and explore the Discovery Hollow Play Area while you’re there. You can also rent snowshoes for an outdoor winter adventure to add to the fun. Then, the indoor space features exhibits on local wildlife, making it a great spot to warm up.
Or, head to Richardson Nature Center in Bloomington for an epic indoor play area with books, rescued wildlife, and more. Outside, you’ll find plenty of trails to explore, as well as a huge play area where kids can get creative in the snow!
Discover more of our favorite nature centers in the Twin Cities with kids by reading about the 8 Best Nature Centers in the Twin Cities for Families – Fun in all Seasons!
Keep reading to discover more Free Indoor Activities in the Twin Cities!
Free Indoor Activities: Local Libraries
Local libraries are the perfect escape from the snow and cold with young kids this winter. And many locations in the Twin Cities offer tons of fun, free winter activities for kids. Beyond books, many branches have interactive play areas, craft stations, and hands-on learning spaces designed to spark creativity.
Hennepin County Library locations feature colorful play zones, while Saint Paul Public Library offers storytimes and kid-friendly events throughout the season. Some libraries even have cozy reading nooks where families can snuggle up with a good book. Whether kids are building, exploring, or diving into a new story, libraries provide a warm, welcoming space to learn and play together.
With dozens of locations across the metro, finding a library that fits your family’s needs is easy. Please read about our favorite Twin Cities Libraries Where Kids Can Read, Explore, and Play for specific location recommendations. Be sure to check event calendars for special winter programs and even more fun indoor activities in the Twin Cities with kids!
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
1225 Estabrook Dr, St. Paul, MN 55103
For a free winter adventure in Saint Paul, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory offers the perfect family outing. Step inside the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory, where tropical plants, vibrant flowers, and a koi-filled pond create a lush escape from the cold. Kids can roam winding paths, marvel at towering palms, and soak in the warmth of the Sunken Garden’s seasonal blooms.
The zoo’s indoor exhibits offer a cozy way to meet fascinating creatures, including sloths, frogs, and reptiles. Families can also bundle up and head outdoors to watch polar bears, arctic foxes, and bison thrive in their snowy habitats. Whether you’re enjoying the greenery inside or the winter wildlife outside, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is a must-visit on any list featuring indoor activities in the Twin Cities with kids.
Free admission makes it an easy, budget-friendly way to enjoy winter in Saint Paul (though donations are appreciated and help support this beloved family destination).
Minneapolis Institute of Art
2400 3rd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55404
When winter keeps kids indoors, the Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) offers a vibrant, free way to explore the world without stepping outside the Twin Cities. As one of the best free museums in the Twin Cities for kids, Mia’s vast collection spans ancient artifacts, breathtaking paintings, and contemporary masterpieces. Kids can admire towering sculptures, discover colorful textiles, or find their favorite pieces in the museum’s endless galleries.
For hands-on fun, the Family Center provides creative activities for little artists. Visit on Family Day, held every second Sunday, for interactive exhibits, storytelling, and special art projects designed for kids of all ages. Whether you’re exploring masterpieces or making your own, Mia is one of the best free winter things to do in Minneapolis with kids.
Schubert Club Music Museum
75 W 5th St #302, St Paul, MN 55102
Escape the winter chill with a musical adventure at the Schubert Club Music Museum, one of the best free museums in Saint Paul for families. Located inside the historic Landmark Center, this hands-on museum invites kids to explore instruments from around the world in an interactive and engaging way.
Little musicians can create their own tunes while learning about music history. Kids will love pounding out rhythms on the Wall of Percussion. Or, experimenting with keyboards and other instruments. The Instrument Tornado surrounds visitors with swirling global sounds, creating a truly immersive experience for all ages. Tweens and teens will appreciate the museum’s high-tech exhibits, where historic instruments come to life through audio and video storytelling.
For families searching for free winter activities in the Twin Cities with kids, the Schubert Club Music Museum is a must-visit. It’s a warm, engaging spot that turns a cold day into a creative, musical adventure!
Minnesota Museum of American Art
350 Robert St N, St Paul, MN 55101
For a free winter adventure in Saint Paul with kids, head to the Minnesota Museum of American Art, also known as “the M.” Tucked inside the historic Pioneer Endicott building, this hidden gem is one of the best free museums in the Twin Cities for kids, offering a dynamic space to explore art in new ways together.
From vibrant exhibitions featuring diverse American artists to unique Window Galleries that transform storytelling into visual art, there’s plenty to spark curiosity in young minds. The museum’s engaging displays also encourage kids to see art as interactive and inspiring (not just something to look at passively).
With free admission and an inviting, family-friendly atmosphere, the M is a great way to warm up on a winter day while immersing kids in creativity. Whether admiring bold paintings, exploring sculptures, or simply soaking in the artistic energy, this Saint Paul museum makes for a fun and enriching winter day out at one of the best indoor activities with kids!
The Eden Prairie SCHEELS Aquarium
Eden Prairie Center, Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Located inside the Eden Prairie Center, the 16,000-gallon saltwater aquarium at SCHEELS is a unique winter idea (and sure to be a hit with your kids)! One of the best free things to do in the Twin Cities with kids this winter, the aquarium features over 700 lively fish and vibrant coral. It’s an excellent spot for the whole family to discover marine life for free.
Kids will be fascinated by the weekly scuba divers who clean the tank and feed the fish, making every visit special. But that’s not all! SCHEELS is packed with family fun, from the multi-story Ferris wheel to arcade games, mini-bowling, and Fuzziwig’s candy store.
Best of all, many activities are super affordable (for example, the Ferris wheel is only $ 1 per ride), making it an ideal stop for a budget-friendly outing this winter.
Walk Around the Mall of America
Looking for low-key winter activities and free things to do with kids in Minnesota? The Mall of America offers free entertainment and unique experiences for all ages! For families with toddlers and young kids, the second Tuesday of each month (Toddler Tuesday) provides special events with free entertainment and fun activities. On Toddler Tuesday, many attractions across the Mall also offer special discounts.
Of course, a few things are always free for families at the Mall of America. Kids can get creative at the LEGO Store’s free play tables. Here, they can build and play with LEGO bricks while parents relax nearby. Or, head to Barnes & Noble to let the kids enjoy the train table while you sit nearby. And for memorable family photos, get a picture with your favorite Nickelodeon characters. No wristband is needed! Those with littles will also find endless entertainment in escalators, fountains, and other features across the Mall as you walk around in a warm, well-lit environment.
Finally, when tummies get hungry, grab a bite at the North Food Court. This is the best spot to watch planes take off and land over lunch. With all this and more, the Mall of America offers endless fun for families year-round!
Free Indoor Activities: Visit a Coffee Shop with Play Areas
Cozy coffee shops with play areas are the perfect escape for families looking to get out of the house this winter! These cafes let parents enjoy a hot coffee while kids burn off energy in a safe, indoor space. While the coffee isn’t free, the play spaces are! A little time for yourself with a warm beverage while kids play is undoubtedly one of the best winter things to do with kids in the Twin Cities!
Rebe’s Play Cafe in Saint Paul is a top pick, offering a spacious playroom for kids from birth to age 8, along with delicious coffee and treats. For a relaxing spot in Minneapolis, head to Sovereign Grounds. Here, kids can play in a clean, recently renovated, and inviting space while parents sip house-made blends and catch up with friends. Both cafes are ideal for meeting fellow parents, and with free play areas, they’re perfect for rainy or cold days when you need to get out of the house. Without a doubt, coffee shops with free play areas are among the best indoor activities in the Twin Cities with kids.
Looking for more Coffee Shops with Indoor Play Spaces in Minnesota? Read this!
Landmark Center
75 W 5th St., St Paul, MN 55102
For a magical (and totally free!) winter outing with your crew, head to the Landmark Center in downtown Saint Paul. This castle-like building has been delighting visitors since 1902. Kids love it just as much as the judges and postmasters who once worked inside! With soaring ceilings, marble staircases, and plenty of nooks to explore, simply wandering the halls feels like an adventure.
Families can pop into free galleries, rotating exhibits, and cultural programs. Curious kids will enjoy peeking into the “Uncle Sam Worked Here” exhibit on the lower level. Or, exploring wooden sculptures in the Gallery of Wood Art. Of course, we’ve already highlighted the incredible Schubert Club Music Museum. These are just a start to the many unique experiences families can have at the Landmark Center.
Then, Sundays at Landmark features free cultural performances, hands-on art activities, and community celebrations. They happen throughout the year, and the whole family can enjoy them. Most events start at 1 p.m., making it an easy, low-key way to add creativity and culture to your weekend.
Want to make one of the best free winter things to do in the Twin Cities with kids even better? Pair your visit to the Landmark Center with a stroll through Rice Park. It is often decorated with sparkling lights in the winter! Plus, you can walk around and look at the snow-covered statues. You’ll even find fan-favorites like Charlie Brown.
Union Depot
Address: 214 4th St E UNIT 120, Saint Paul, MN 55101
If your crew loves trains, history, and hands-on exploring, Union Depot is a unique winter outing with kids. This beautifully restored 1926 station is packed with family-friendly fun. You’ll find everything from massive public art to interactive exhibits, making it one of the best free winter things to do in Saint Paul with kids.
Start with the Depot’s scavenger hunt. This is a kid-approved favorite! Pick up a sheet and help your little explorers find nine hidden gems throughout the building. Each discovery shares a cool piece of the Depot’s past.
Inside Gate B, don’t miss the Land to Legacy exhibit. Here, families can learn about Saint Paul’s beginnings and the impact of railroading in Minnesota and around the world. As you wander, take in the Depot’s impressive murals and sculptures created by artists from near and far.
Visit on a Wednesday to try the Union Depot’s Games Galore. Kids will dive right in to play with the oversized puzzles, giant Connect Four, and more. Be sure to check their events calendar too! There are free family programs like this offered throughout the year.
Cafesjian Art Trust Museum
4600 Churchill St, Shoreview, MN 55126
Cafesjian Art Trust Museum is one of the most delightful free museums in the Twin Cities for kids. It needs to be on your weekend outing list! Open for drop-in visits every Saturday, the CAT Museum is modern, welcoming, and perfectly sized for families. Kids can explore colorful contemporary art and discover rotating exhibitions. There is even a scavenger hunt for kids who want to participate!
Don’t miss the family nook. It features cozy seating, sketching supplies, and kid-friendly books. Families also love the interactive prompts that help little ones engage with the art in playful ways. Want something extra? Check the museum’s website for free family programs. They offer exciting family experiences, such as Story Time and Preschool Pals programs. These two programs are designed just for young learners. Programs for other age groups (like babies and teens) are also available.
The museum also offers guided tours on Thursdays and Fridays. Pre-registration is required for these two days. With fresh exhibits every few months, the CAT Museum is an easy, inspiring stop for all kids of all ages.
Free Indoor Activities: Visit a Mall Play Area
When cabin fever hits hard, mall play areas are among the easiest free winter things to do with toddlers and young kids in the Twin Cities. Often, they are easy to get to from the parking lot, near family restrooms, and enclosed.
Maplewood Mall near White Bear Lake has long been a parent favorite thanks to its free play zone, mini train ride, and the nostalgic double-decker Venetian carousel. While the play area is free, the other experiences are only a few dollars and likely worth the addition to your family outing. It’s a quick, low-stress outing that feels magical for little ones.
In Edina, Southdale Center offers a bright, free indoor play area tucked just off the main walkway. It is ideal for toddlers and preschoolers. Parents can sip a coffee while kids climb, crawl, and burn off energy in a safe, enclosed space.
Eden Prairie Center also shines with its spacious play area for kids. It’s conveniently located on the lower level, near Kohl’s. It’s colorful, cozy, and surrounded by seating for adults. Plus, coin-operated rides are nearby for a tiny add-on treat.
Take a Day Trip to Cabela’s
Cabela’s is one of the most unexpectedly awesome Minnesota day trips with kids! This massive outdoor store doubles as a wildlife museum, making it a unique day trip for families who love animals and the outdoors. And it is filled with free winter activities for Minnesota kids.
Little explorers can wander through the towering mountain diorama filled with more than 100 lifelike animals. Along the way, they can spot wolves and moose in recreated habitats. There’s even an indoor waterfall with more creatures to see! The African diorama features a life-sized elephant (always a jaw-dropper for toddlers and young kids!). Of course, you can’t miss the huge aquariums showcasing Minnesota fish.
Families can also check the Cabela’s Facebook page for scavenger hunts, kid-friendly classes, and seasonal outdoor-themed activities. After your adventure, grab a bite at the in-store restaurant and finish with freshly made fudge.
Enjoy These FREE Winter Activities in the Twin Cities with Your Kids!
There’s no shortage of free winter things to do in the Twin Cities with kids, whether you’re exploring museums, enjoying indoor play areas, or discovering new adventures together. From interactive exhibits at some of the best free museums in the Twin Cities for kids to cozy coffee shops with free play areas, keep the whole family entertained without breaking the bank this winter. With so many fun winter activities and things to do with kids in Minnesota, these local gems will keep your little ones engaged and make the colder months much more enjoyable. So bundle up, head out, and make the most of these fantastic, budget-friendly activities!
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.
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