Richfield with Kids: A Family Guide of Fun Things to Do in Richfield

Known as “the urban hometown,” Richfield, Minnesota, is a cozy, family-friendly suburb just south of Minneapolis. Tucked between Hwy 62 to the north and Hwy 494 to the south, Richfield is easy for families to find for a fun day out with kids. While its location puts it in the heart of the Twin Cities, Richfield has maintained a friendly, small-town vibe. The city boasts some of the best green spaces and restaurants in the metro area. If you’re planning a family outing or a local staycation, use this guide to the best things to do in Richfield with kids to help you decide where to go. Written by a local mom, this list includes the best parks and playgrounds, places to eat, and more fun things to do across Richfield with kids. Read to discover 15 Fun Things to Do in Richfield, Minnesota, for Families.

Richfield with Kids: Our Picks for Fun Things to Do

If you want fun things to do in Richfield with kids, you’re in the right spot! From summer to winter, this fun city is filled with family-friendly things to do, including a library, community pool, mini golfing, and more! Keep reading to discover fun things to do in Richfield together.

1. Augsburg Park Library

Part of the Hennepin County Library system, Augsburg Park Library is one of the best free things to do in Richfield with toddlers and young kids. The library offers a beautiful location amongst towering trees and a local park.

In addition to an extensive collection of children’s books (including several global languages), the library features a cozy play area ideal for littles. Browse through their story collection while your kids serve up ice cream, drive a local bus, or sort produce at the market. Friendly librarians can also assist you in finding books you might be looking for. Additionally, the library also offers DVD and audiobook lending. Finally, families can easily pair visiting this library with playing at Augsburg Adventure Park (more on this below). A sidewalk leads from the library to the park, pond, and playground.

2. The Riley Lucas Bartholomew House (Richfield History Center and Museum)

A hidden gem in Minnesota, The Riley Lucas Bartholomew House (housed in the Richfield History Center and Museum) is a historic home you can tour with kids. Start your visit inside the Richfield History Center and Museum. Here, you will meet your tour guide and find a few small, curated exhibits about local history.

After exploring the collection, follow your tour guide to The Riley Lucas Bartholomew House. A two-story yellow farmhouse, the Bartholomew House is one of the best examples of how ordinary people would have lived in the 1850s. While you can tour many mansions and large homes in Minnesota, this humble home offers a great perspective into the lives and legacies of everyday Minnesotans. In the house, you will see everything from antique books and kitchen items to other unique historical artifacts. The tour guide will also provide information about the period, the Bartholomew family, and Richfield’s history. Guided tours and visiting the museum’s collections are free for all ages.

Please note: The Riley Lucas Bartholomew House is seasonally open April – November on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 12:00-4:00 PM.

3. Mini Golfing

Located in Veterans Park, mini golfing with Wheel Fun Rentals is one of the best kid-friendly things to do in Richfield. Offering mini golfing, bike rentals, and ice cream, this is a great spot to spend a sunny afternoon with your kids.

The mini golf course features 18 holes amongst giant trees. Across the course, you’ll find a variety of playful and challenging holes, making it fun for all ages. In addition to the mini golf course, Wheel Fun Rentals also offers surrey and tandem bikes to explore the scenic green spaces at Veterans Park. Several rental options mean families of all sizes will find the perfect fit! Then, in the snack bar, munch on yummy menu items like pizza and grilled cheese, in addition to several flavors of ice cream. Finally, parking is free in the large lot near the pavilion and playground. Find more fun things to do at Veterans Park below.

Please Note: Mini golfing is seasonally available from May to October.

4. Richfield Outdoor Pool

One of the best summer things to do in Richfield with kids is the Richfield Outdoor Pool, an excellent option for all ages. Featuring two swimming pools monitored by lifeguards, a snack bar, changing rooms, and ample loungers throughout the facility, this community pool has a lot to love.

Toddlers and young kids can splash and play in a shallow pool and aqua playground designed just for them. A zero-depth entry makes it an excellent option for families to bring tiny tots. The aqua playground features a slide, dump buckets, and more – all under the watch of trained lifeguards. There is even a designated Tot Time (for ages 7 and under) Monday – Saturdayday from 10:00-11:00 am. Meanwhile, older kids and teens will love the larger pool. The main pool showcases two giant slides, a diving board with an additional slide, and a vast pool area for games and swimming together. When you’re hungry, the concession area offers traditional pool fare like pretzels, nachos, pizza by the slice, and ice cream treats.

Please note: The Richfield Outdoor Pool is seasonally open from Memorial Day Weekend to mid-August.

5. Richfield Farmers Market

If you want fun summer things to do in Richfield with kids, the Richfield Farmers Market is a great place to spend Saturday mornings together. Featuring over 50 vendors, families will find a variety of market stalls showcasing everything from fresh produce and bread to jewelry, soaps, and more. While you meander the market, munch on yummy prepared foods like empanadas, momos, BBQ, and more. A rotating variety of food trucks often appear at the market, too.

Since the Richfield Farmers Market is located in Veterans Park, it’s a great place to start the day. Afterward, kids can play at the massive nearby playground, families can go mini golfing (just a short walk from the market pavilion), or you can further explore the many kid-friendly things across Richfield. Finally, parking is widely available in the adjacent parking lot.

Please note: The Richfield Farmers Market is open seasonally on Saturday mornings, May through October.

6. Open Skating at Richfield Ice Arena

The Richfield Ice Arena offers open skate hours and skate rentals during winter. Featuring two indoor ice rinks, Richfield Ice Arena is a great spot to practice your moves and strengthen your abilities. Then there are also two outdoor skating rinks in Richfield for public use. Both pleasure skating rinks offer lights and warming houses. Ice skating is undoubtedly one of the best winter things to do in Richfield with kids!

For those interested, Richfield Ice Arena also offers skating lessons (ages 3+), hockey leagues (kids and adults), curling leagues, and other opportunities to hit the ice.

Please note: Check the live schedule for availability and updated hours for open skating at the Richfield Ice Area.

Best Parks and Playgrounds in Richfield with Kids

Parks and playgrounds are some of the best free things to do in Richfield with kids! Whether you are looking for urban hikes in the Twin Cities, dog-friendly trails, or epic playgrounds, some of the best parks in Richfield have what you’re looking for.

7. Wood Lake Nature Center

Wood Lake Nature Center is a 150-acre nature center with prairies, woodlands, and wetlands in the heart of Richfield. All habitats are viewable along three miles of trails and boardwalks. While most paths are not paved, they are doable with jogging strollers and wagons (with thick wheels). As one of the best free things to do in Richfield with kids, there are many ways to explore this nature center!

Start your visit at the cozy indoor interpretive center. Inside, kids can play dress up, read books, and view several small creatures (like snakes, turtles, and salamanders). From the front desk, you can also check out Nature Exploration Backpacks. Several backpack themes are available to suit your child’s interests, including birds and insects. Alternatively, with older kids, learn about and embark on one of the geocaching experiences. Restrooms are accessible inside the main building (during open hours). Then, it’s time to explore the trails. Watch for turtles, birds, and muskrats along the way!

After meandering the trails, head to the natural playground, which features several fun areas for kids to play. This fenced-in play area includes a slide, a building area, and some wooden musical instruments. Finally, in the winter, kick sleds, cross-country skis, and snowshoe rentals are also available for kids and adults to rent.

8. Richfield Lake Park

Nestled behind Lakewinds Food Co-op is a beautiful walking path, playground, and pond that residents love for its wildlife and paved trail. One of the best parks in the city, Richfield Lake Park is ideal for families looking to stretch their legs, play at a low-key playground, or search for turtles. It’s also dog-friendly for families planning to bring their favorite pooch.

The paved loop trail is less than one mile around a pond/marsh area. The trail is also wide, making it easy with strollers or tiny tots. Along the trail, you’ll be able to spot plenty of birds (including nesting ones!), turtles, frogs, and maybe some fish too. On one end of the park is a small playground with the usual features, like swings, slides, and a small structure to play on.

To access Richfield Lake Park, park in the far corner of the Lakewinds Food Co-op parking lot or on the street near the playground off Dupont Avenue. There are portable toilets near the playground. Finally, make it a picnic day with goodies from Lakewinds Food Co-op or one of the nearby restaurants.

9. Augsburg Adventure Park

The best thing on this list to do in Richfield with toddlers and young kids is Augsburg Adventure Park, which is also one of the newest all-inclusive parks in the Twin Cities. This fenced playground features towering slides, quiet spaces, rubber surfacing, and wheelchair-accessible features (including an inclusive merry-go-round).

Kids will delight in racing down the two-story slide, zooming across the zipline, swinging, spinning, and playing. Babies and toddlers have their nature-themed area, inspired by friendly insects, set away from the hustle and bustle of the other playground equipment. Then, plenty of seating around the park allows parents to have vantage points from anywhere to watch kids play. For older kids, there is also a skate park near the playground. Families will also find a fun sledding hill and sleds available to enjoy a day in the snow in the winter.

If you’ve packed a picnic, there are plenty of picnic tables and green spaces to lay out a blanket. A few picnic shelters also have charcoal grills. A small pond is nearby, home to many geese and ducks. After playing at the playground, head to Augsburg Park Library to read a few stories together. Finally, there is a large on-site parking lot and portable toilets available. Indoor bathrooms are also available at Augsburg Park Library and The Richfield Community Center (during open hours). The Richfield Community Center also has water fountains.

10. Taft Bike Park

Recently opened, Taft Bike Park is one of the newest kid-friendly bike parks in the Twin Cities. Here, families will find off-road bike features for all ages, including berms, rock features, rollers, jumps, pump tracks, and wood decking. Then, there is also a tot track. Trails are color-coded for intermediate and beginner bikers to assist them in finding the right track for their skill level. Plus, the trail is one way (clockwise) to reduce the risk of crashes and injury. For families who enjoy biking together, this is undoubtedly one of the best free things to do in Richfield with kids. The bike park is located at 62nd Street and Bloomington Avenue (on the western side of Taft Park).

As one of the best parks in Richfield, Taft Park also features several other family-friendly activities, including a playground, a one-mile walking path around the lake, sports fields, and picnic areas. In the winter, the park also features an ice rink. Meanwhile, kayak and paddleboard rentals are available in the summer through Paddle Share, an online reservation system. The dock into the lake features an accessible transfer for wheelchair users. Finally, Taft Park is also an excellent place to watch planes take off and land at MSP Airport.

11. Veterans Park + Playground

We’ve mentioned a few of the unique things to do in Veterans Park already. Still, the park itself also boasts a giant playground, several green spaces, and a scenic walking trail. This park is also home to Richfield’s Veterans Memorial (thus the park’s name). This dynamic park has everything you need for a fun day outside together.

Kids will adore the long zipline, massive climbing structures, swings, and slides on the playground. There is even a separate play area with swings and slides just their size for littles. Several picnic tables around the playground offer excellent spots for lunch or for parents to watch their kids play. After playing for a bit, stroll along the beautiful 1.4-mile paved loop trail to look for ducks, geese, and turtles.

As a reminder, families can also challenge each other to 18 holes of mini golf, splash in the nearby outdoor pool, and attend the Saturday morning Richfield Farmers Market in Veterans Park. With so much to offer, Veterans Park is undoubtedly one of the best parks in Richfield!

12. Biking Along Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail

Operated by the Three Rivers Park District, a section of the Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail winds through Richfield (as well as Edina, Hopkins, and Minnetonka). From Richfield, you can also access the Nokomis-Minnesota River Regional Trail. Travel north to Lake Nokomis or south to the Minnesota River, extending the day’s adventure on wheels.

In Richfield, Adams Hill Park and Roosevelt Park offer the best parking options and entrances to the trail. The trail winds past Nine Mile Creek through scenic wetlands and beautiful woodlands. Part of the trail is a boardwalk (through the wetlands), while the rest is paved. If you are looking for kid-friendly things to do in Richfield and love to bike with your kids, Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail has all the makings of a thrilling day outdoors together! Finally, this trail is multi-use for walkers and roller skaters but is predominately used by bikers.

13. Washington Park

Washington Park is next on our list of fun things to do in Richfield with kids. This whimsical park features bright colors and plenty of fun playground equipment. Families will find parent-and-me swings, slides, and large climbing structures on the playground. While kids race through the park, parents can relax in the grass or on one of the nearby benches.

A large grassy field is available for tossing a frisbee or kicking a ball around for more active playtime. A basketball court and pickleball court are also available at Washington Park. Due to its proximity to the MSP Airport, this park is also a great place to watch planes take off and land. Lastly, a small parking lot and plenty of street parking are available. Portable toilets are also available on-site.

Richfield with Kids Fun Places to Eat

After exploring some of the best things to do in Richfield with kids, you will want to grab something to eat. Here are a few of our favorite recommendations for the best places to eat in Richfield with kids, from breakfast to after-dinner desserts.

14. Tous les Jours

No matter what fun things you have planned, start your day exploring Richfield with kids at Tous les Jours. Located on 66th and Nicollet, this bakery has a variety of freshly made pastries and coffee waiting for you and your kids. A mix of Asian and French flavors, you’ll find everything from croque monsieur and pain au chocolat to yuzu pie. The flavors are exquisite and are sure to please everyone in your family – including the pickiest of eaters.

When you arrive, grab a tray and tongs from the stack in the entrance area. Then, wander through the bakery cases and make your selections. Take your time – there is a lot to choose from! Most kids can take a peek inside the cases – though you’ll need to lift toddlers who want to select their pastries. Once you have chosen, check out at the counter (where you can also order coffee and tea). The beautiful dining area offers plenty of seating. Once your tummies are full, you’ll be ready for a fun family outing in Richfield!

15. Protagonist Kitchen and Bar

End your day of exploring with dinner at one of Richfield’s best places to eat. Located on 66th and Lyndale, Protagonist Kitchen and Bar is a hidden gem in the heart of the Twin Cities. They serve up an inspired menu filled with American fare like smash burgers and wings – alongside some unique menu items like poutine, lobster rolls, and smoked gouda mac and cheese. The ambiance is filled with hints of literary and film touches, including cocktails and desserts named for your favorite characters (protagonists like Jack Sparrow, Rainbow Brite, and Rachel Green). As a family-friendly restaurant, Protagonist also offers a lovely kids’ menu with coloring supplies, changing tables, high chairs, and extra games (located near the bathrooms).

Protagonist is located inside Woodlake Centre (on the 1st floor, facing 66th). There is a ramp on the south side of the building, which can be accessed from the south side of the building off Lyndale Avenue. Or, the east side off of 66th Street. The accessible parking ramp is limited to 2 hours during the day, but after 4:00 pm, it is not timed. Street parking is also available.

16. Cone Brothers

While experiencing some of the best things to do with kids in Richfield, don’t forget to indulge in some ice cream, too! Cone Brothers is a neighborhood favorite and has served the community for years. Cone Brothers is set in a 1950s-style parlor and offers 20 ice cream flavors, malts, and specialty candies. Enjoy classics like chocolate, French vanilla, and strawberry, or boldly try spectacular flavors like blueberry cheesecake, cappuccino break, or heaps of love. Then, they even offer Chicago-style hot dogs and pizza by the slice if you need a bit of lunch, too. No matter what you order, it’s sure to be a tasty addition to your day!

Please note: Cone Brothers is only seasonally open, generally late March/early April through October. Check their Facebook page for more information.

Richfield with Kids! We hope you have fun exploring.

We hope you found this article on the best things to do in Richfield with kids helpful in planning your next family outing! Centrally located in the Twin Cities metro, Richfield is a vibrant city with beautiful outdoor parks, great family eateries, and many free things to do with kids! Whether you are looking for the best places to eat or the more kid-friendly parks in Richfield, this guide will have you and your kids having fun and making memories in no time!

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.