We found 10 unique adventures to do near Minneapolis with the kids!
Families in the Twin Cities are ready for fun! While there are many fantastic museums, splash pads, and playgrounds across the metro area, sometimes parents want to hit the road and go on a micro-adventure with kids. These exciting family adventures near Minneapolis with kids will require a few hours (and maybe a bit of driving), but we promise they will lead to many fantastic memories! Whether you are looking for outdoor fun in the sun, unique places to eat, or a new place to explore together, we’ve rounded up 10 Fun Spots for a Micro Adventure in the Twin Cities with Kids! Plus, everything on this list is within 90 minutes of Minneapolis. Please keep reading to discover some of our favorite recommendations for fun summer activities in and around the Twin Cities with kids this summer!
Micro Adventures in the Twin Cities: Grab a Pizza from Broders’ Cucina + Picnic at Lake Harriet
Nothing says summer fun in Minnesota quite like enjoying a lakeside picnic together. One of our favorite summer activities in the Twin Cities for a fun day out with kids is grabbing a pizza or two from Broders’ Cucina and heading to nearby Lake Harriet for a picnic!
At Broders’ Cucina, you can get pizza by slice or order a whole pie. They also have sandwiches, pasta, and more. Once you have your food, head to Lake Harriet (just a few blocks away) to enjoy a sunny day in Minneapolis together. There are plenty of places to set up your picnic. If you have toddlers and young kids in tow, the lawn around the massive playground is a great place to set up. Or, snag one of the green spaces near the lake for beautiful views with older kids and teens. Once you’ve finished eating, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the day on Lake Harriet, too! Lake Harriet also boasts two beaches, a fishing pier, and a 2.8-mile loop walking path around the lake. Additionally, Wheel Fun Rentals offers canoe, kayak, paddleboard, pedal boat, bike rentals, and more!
Go to a Local Pizza Farm
Enjoy all the best flavors of summer by bringing your kids to a pizza farm! Imagine munching on farm-fresh pizza while your kids meander through wide-open green spaces and encounter farm animals. If you’re lucky, there may even be live music playing! If you are searching for fun things to do in the Twin Cities with kids, there are four pizza farms within 90 minutes of Minneapolis.
Firstly, Red Barn Farm, located in Northfield (about an hour from Minneapolis), serves delicious pizza on their farm every Wednesday and the third Sunday of every month. Plus, the horses and chickens are ready to greet your kids! Then, Alpha and Omega Pizza Farm in Princeton is another family favorite. Just under an hour from Minneapolis, this farm hosts Pizza Nights alongside lawn games, live music, and more on Thursdays. Finally, Pleasant Grove Pizza Farm in Waseca, Minnesota, and Sawmill Pizza & Brew Shed in Clear Lake, Wisconsin, are two more kid-friendly options. No matter which pizza farm you choose, you’re in for a fantastic night of tasty pizza, beautiful pastoral views, and family fun. Talk about one of the best summer things to do with kids in the Twin Cities!
Interstate State Park + The Drive-In Restaurant
This summer, Interstate State Park is one of the best outdoor activities near the Twin Cities. Located in Taylors Falls, less than an hour from Minneapolis, this state park boasts some of Minnesota’s most remarkable rock formations. The park’s iconic glacial potholes are the most significant draw for exploring. These mesmerizing geological formations are sure to spark kid’s imaginations. Meanwhile, parents will love the picturesque views of the St. Croix River. If you want a more extended hiking experience, try Summit Rock, River Bluff, and Echo Canyon Loop. After exploring the trails, enjoy the cozy visitor center with interpretive exhibits.
Once you are done in the park, your next stop on this micro-adventure is The Drive-In Restaurant! This iconic carhop-style diner has been a family tradition for generations (in fact, it first opened in 1956!). The menu features classic American fare like burgers, grilled sandwiches, corn dogs, and more. They have a dedicated kids’ menu, so even the pickiest eaters will find something they enjoy here. Finally, don’t miss knocking back one of their famous malts or mugs of root beer!
Have a Picnic with Alpaca at Evergreen Oasis Farm & Market
Are you looking for a hidden gem filled with summer fun near the Twin Cities? Make Evergreen Oasis Farm & Market your next micro-adventure family outing with kids! This locally-owned farm in Center City will delight kids (and kids at heart) of all ages. On Farm Days (most Saturdays from June to October), Evergreen Oasis Farm & Market welcomes visitors to pack a picnic and enjoy a day on the farm!
Once you’ve found parking, pick a spot on the spacious lawn for your picnic. There is space near the alpaca area and behind the barn near the fields. Be sure to bring your food and refreshments; the market only sells small kitchen items and other odds and ends. Once you’ve eaten, kids are invited to pet and feed the alpaca and sheep. The owners will help families safely enter the alpaca area and meet these gentle creatures. Plus, they can answer any questions about raising alpaca and sheep. This experience is sure to delight your young animal lovers! Finally, in addition to Farm Days, Evergreen Oasis Farm & Market offers u-pick flowers throughout the growing season.
Micro Adventures Twin Cities: Get Your Thrills at Nickelodeon Universe
Everyone can get thrills at Nickelodeon Universe, an indoor amusement park in the Mall of America. This Bloomington attraction is perfect for rainy or too-hot summer days. There is no shortage of fun Twin Cities summer activities here! From high-speed roller coasters and toddler-sized fun to on-site dining, Nickelodeon Universe has everything you need for a great day with kids.
Start your day at the NEW Fly with Appa ride! Inspired by Nickelodeon’s Avatar the Last Airbender series, this ride allows kids of all ages to climb aboard their sky bison and soar through the skies! Afterward, take littles to explore with Dora on Boots’ Banana Swing. Meanwhile, tweens and teens can race down Spongebob Squarepants Rock Bottom Plunge. Afterward, the whole family can see Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox at the Log Chute. When you need a break from the rides, there are other events and character meetings throughout the park. Not to mention other attractions, like mini-golf and arcade games, throughout the Mall of America. Finally, when tummies get hungry, quick-service food can be found throughout the park, or grab a bite at one of the many restaurants in the Mall of America.
Tour Historic Fort Snelling + Walk Around Fort Snelling State Park
Are you interested in local history? Add Fort Snelling in Saint Paul to your list of things to do in the Twin Cities with kids this summer. Located on Dakota land along the confluence of the Minnesota and Mississippi rivers, this National Historic Landmark offers unique insights into the fort’s military history, local indigenous tribes, historic trade routes, and much more. Plus, children ages four and under are free to enter the museum.
Start your micro-adventure at the Fort Snelling Visitor Center. You will find interactive exhibits showcasing the fort’s history and role in Minnesota’s settlement here. Then, Walk & Talk guided tours of the fort are included with admission (5 tour times are offered daily). After your tour, families can further explore the fort grounds. This includes beautiful walking trails, which are perfect for family hiking. Then, head to Fort Snelling State Park. If you’re looking for a gorgeous hike, try the Pike Island Loop on Pike Island. The trail is almost 4 miles long and weaves through beautiful woods near the rivers. Additionally, families can enjoy spending time at the playground, fishing pier, or swimming beach. Finally, picnic areas offer some much-needed space to relax together after exploring the indoor exhibits and trails.
Please note: vehicles must have a Minnesota State Park pass to enter and park at Fort Snelling State Park.
Fawn-Doe-Rosa Wildlife Educational Park
Located in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin, Fawn-Doe-Rosa Wildlife Educational Park is a summer pilgrimage for many Twin Cities families. Just under an hour away, this park is one of the best family adventures near Minneapolis to have with your kids this summer. It has been family-owned and operated since 1963!
Seasonally open from May to September, Fawn-Doe-Rosa is dedicated to conservation and educational efforts around animals, wildlife, and nature. Families can meader trails throughout the wooded park to see its many animals, like deer, elk, foxes, rabbits, badgers, and more! The park is best enjoyed slowly, so be sure to snag a bench and take your time as you enjoy seeing the animals and immersing yourself in nature. Staff are also located throughout the park to answer questions about the animals. Feeding some of the animals is permitted, so bring some extra money to purchase the small food bags that are available. Kids will delight in meeting these animals up close! Finally, children under 2 are free. Check here for coupons. If you want fun things to do near the Twin Cities with kids, add Fawn-Doe-Rosa to your list!
See the Bison at Minneopa State Park
Less than 90 minutes from Minneapolis (near Mankato), Minneopa State Park is a unique addition to your list of fun summer activities near the Twin Cities with kids. Beloved for its scenic hiking trails, double waterfall, and majestic bison herd, Minneopa State Park provides the perfect outing for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages!
As one of the best family adventures near Minneapolis with kids, you can begin your day searching for the bison herd. They roam over 325 acres in the park, which can sometimes be tough to find. However, once you spot them, kids will be in awe of these massive creatures! Tips for finding the bison herd can be found here. Afterward, stop at the Seppmann Mill. You can learn about this historic grist (flour) mill together here. Then, move your car to the park office/ranger station. This is where you can embark on a kid-friendly trail to view beautiful waterfalls. The stunning double falls are worth the short trek! Coincidentally, Minneopa is a Dakota word for “water falling twice,” – which is where the park got its name! Finally, bring a packed lunch with you. This way, you can enjoy everything Minneopa State Park offers during your micro-adventure with kids.
Enjoy Global Flavors Together at Eat Street Crossing
If you love finding unique things to do in Minneapolis with your kids, you’ll love Eat Street Crossing! This exciting dining experience is a great way to travel through your palate. On this micro-adventure, you can explore some of the best cuisines in the world without ever leaving Minnesota! It is a great way to introduce your kids to new foods, cultures, and experiences.
From sushi to ice cream, Eat Street Crossing offers several unique vendors in one food hall! Are you craving pizza? Try Ouro Pizzaria, a Brazilian take on pizza featuring elaborate toppings (both traditional and non-traditional). Then, north meets south at Bebe Zito Burgers, where South American flavors collide with North American nostalgia on a bun. Plus, they offer small-batch ice cream in numerous tasty flavors, too! Finally, embrace the flavors of Japan at Sushi Dori, where you can order several delicious items from the sushi counter. If you’re hungry and looking for fun things to do with kids in the Twin Cities, Eat Street Crossing will satisfy your craving for adventure!
Spend the Afternoon at a Kid-Friendly Brewery
Sometimes, all you need for fun summer activities in the Twin Cities is a patio in the sun, a kid-friendly environment, and a local pint. Visiting a family-friendly brewery can be an excellent way for parents to enjoy beautiful summer days outside with their kids. Local breweries offer kid-friendly additions like special menus, games, and playgrounds.
Perhaps one of the most notable kid-friendly breweries in the Twin Cities, Lakeville Brewing Company is an excellent spot for a sunny summer day! Not only does it have a spacious patio with games, but it also has family seating, a dedicated kids’ menu, a playground, and more! Then, BlackStack Brewing in Saint Paul is ideal for rainy days. They offer a range of family features like large, comfy couches, board games, and snacks. Their outdoor patio is also lovely for warmer days, and they often have food trucks waiting to serve dinner outside, too! Plus, they are located right next door to Can Can Wonderland. Talk about a great outing with kids! Finally, HeadFlyer Brewing in Minneapolis is another excellent family-friendly brewery option. Their play area includes Lincoln Logs, LEGOS, coloring books, and board games.
Need more recommendations? Here are our top picks for the best Kid-Friendly Breweries in the Twin Cities!
Have Fun Exploring the Micro Adventures in the Twin Cities with Kids!
We hope this list has helped you find a few new fun activities in and around the Twin Cities to add to your summer adventures. Whether you are looking for unique things to do near Minneapolis with kids or are up for a quick trek to explore further, these micro-adventures will keep your family having fun together in the Twin Cities all summer. Enjoy summer vacation with your kids!
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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We hope you found some fun micro adventures in the Twin Cities to try with the kids!
