Free Fun Alert: Why the Minneapolis Institute of Art Is the Best Twin Cities Family Spot
Address: 2400 3rd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55404
About the Minneapolis Institute of Art
If your kids love creativity—or you want to spark their imagination—the Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) is one of the best family-friendly museums in Minnesota. Located in the heart of Minneapolis, this world-class museum is home to more than 100,000 works of art spanning 5,000 years of world history.
And the best part? Admission is always free!
Families can wander through galleries featuring a diverse range of art, from Native American beadwork to Japanese armor, as well as masterpieces by Monet, Van Gogh, and Matisse. Kids will be awestruck by towering sculptures, vibrant textiles, and rooms that transport them back in time. Since the exhibits rotate often, every visit offers something new to discover.
Families across Minnesota keep Mia on their go-to list because it’s more than just an art museum. It’s a place where kids can imagine, create, and see the world from new perspectives. With free admission and an abundance of colors, textures, and inspiration, the Minneapolis Institute of Art is a must-visit museum for families.
Related Article: The Ultimate Guide to Free Minnesota Museums
Family Day & Other Programming
Mia truly shines when it comes to making art accessible for kids. Family Day, held on the second Sunday of every month, transforms the museum into a hub of hands-on fun. Each family day also comes with a unique theme! Families can dive into art-making activities, enjoy storytelling, watch artist demonstrations, and set off on gallery scavenger hunts. These interactive experiences bring art to life in a way kids can really connect with.
Beyond Family Day, Mia offers special programs, visiting exhibits, and workshops throughout the year that give kids and parents new ways to explore art together. Want to deep dive into specific pieces or mediums with your older kids? Set up a museum tour with an expert! Private and public tours are available.
Family Center
Looking for a break from the galleries or a quiet spot to take a minute? Head to Mia’s Family Center. This cozy drop-in space is designed for kids and families. Kids can play with the provided toys, flip through books, or just be themselves for a moment. Parents will appreciate the thoughtful touches (like the private family restroom and nursing room).
Minneapolis Institute of Art Museum Highlights
- Always free for everyone (no tickets needed)
- Galleries feature over 100,000 artworks
- The collection includes art from six continents, spanning about 5,000 years
- Family Center with kid-friendly books and toys, as well as nursing areas
- Themed Family Days on the second Sunday of every month
- Tours are available
- On-site store with souvenirs, small prints, and more
- They offer visitor information in Spanish, Somali, Hmong, Dakota, and Anishinaabe
Know Before You Go to Minneapolis Institute of Art
- Website
- Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (with extended hours on Thursdays until 9:00 pm). The museum is closed on Mondays.
- Parking: Street parking and nearby ramps are widely available around the museum.
- Gallery Map
- Upcoming Events and Programs
- Youth and Family Programs
- Accessibility Resources
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.
