12+ Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Apple Valley with Kids
Planning a little visit to Apple Valley, Minnesota? Or maybe you live in the city and want something new to do? You’ll be happy to know that Apple Valley is filled with fun things to do with kids! This Twin Cities south metro gem (just minutes from downtown Minneapolis and Saint Paul) is packed with year-round family fun.
To kick things off, you’ll find exciting adventures at local favorites like the Minnesota Zoo and Splash Valley Water Park. Plus, Apple Valley has plenty of parks and playgrounds, perfect for unstructured fun and games. Not to mention thrilling indoor activities, too! When it’s time to recharge, grab a sweet treat with your kids at one of Apple Valley’s many tasty eateries. If your crew is up for a short drive, several nearby attractions make for easy add-ons to your day. Whether you’re a local or planning a Minnesota day trip, Apple Valley offers everything you need for a fun day out with your kids. Please keep reading to discover our favorite 12+ Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Apple Valley with Kids!
Minnesota Zoo
13000 Zoo Blvd, Apple Valley, MN 55124
Hit the road for your next wild family adventure! It’s time to check out the Minnesota Zoo. Over 5,000 animals make every visit unforgettable! As one of the best things to do in Apple Valley with kids, this zoo features nine scenic walking trails. Plus, several immersive indoor exhibits open year-round.
Kids can journey from the Northern Trail (home to bison and moose) to the lush Tropics Trail (filled with lemurs and red pandas) all in one day! Of course, you can’t miss the brown bears at Russia’s Grizzly Coast. They are a crowd favorite! Beyond the animal exhibits, families enjoy hands-on activities like carousel rides and a seasonal petting zoo.
Splash Valley Water Park
14421 Johnny Cake Ridge Rd, Apple Valley, MN 55124
Looking for kid-friendly summer activities in Apple Valley? Dive into a world of family fun at Splash Valley Water Park (formerly known as the Apple Valley Family Aquatic Center)! After a major renovation, this local favorite is back and better than ever, offering everything families love about summer in Minnesota.
Little ones can make a splash at the Sprayground Splash Pad. Meanwhile, older kids can try the inner tube and body slides (height restrictions apply). The zero-depth entry to both the Lazy River and Leisure Pool makes it easy for swimmers of all ages to enjoy the water safely.
Between swims, relax in one of the new shaded areas. Or, challenge your family to a round of lawn games. Of course, you can always grab a tasty treat to cool down from the on-site concessions. With its fresh new theme, expanded features, and season passes available, Splash Valley Water Park is your go-to spot for summer fun in Apple Valley!
Bogart’s Entertainment Center
14917 Garrett Ave, Apple Valley, MN 55124
Bogart’s Entertainment Center is a strike with kids of all ages! This family-owned venue features 24 modern bowling lanes with automatic scoring. Plus, bumpers and ramps for little bowlers. They even host regular events (think karaoke, trivia, and bingo) and live music!
As one of the best kid-friendly indoor activities in Apple Valley, the Kids Bowl Free program is a favorite for families. It usually runs from late May through early September and offers two free games daily for kids 15 and under (perfect for summer fun on a budget!).
Between rounds or after you play, enjoy a meal at the Back Alley Tavern. It features a full menu and kid-friendly options. Kids can also test their skills in the sizable arcade. Whether it’s a family night out or a birthday celebration, Bogart’s brings big fun for all ages.
Millz House
Rain or shine, Millz House in Apple Valley is a unique (and inexpensive!) spot for kids to play and explore. During certain hours, this massive indoor showroom doubles as a playground. It’s filled with swing sets, trampolines, basketball hoops, and ping pong tables. The indoor space is perfect for year-round fun. Designed for children 10 and under, Millz House offers plenty of space to climb, jump, and run.
Open play is available during regular business hours. The relaxed atmosphere gives everyone room to play safely. Families can bring snacks or lunch to enjoy in the picnic area. You can also book birthday parties for groups of up to 20 kids. For an easy, energy-burning outing, Millz House is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Apple Valley with kids.
Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park
7370 153rd St W, Apple Valley, MN 55124
For nonstop indoor excitement, Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park is a top pick for Minnesota families. This south metro favorite is packed with action. Kids will soar across the Sky Rider zipline. Tackle the Warrior Course. And bounce across the APEX trampolines.
Designed for kids of all ages (and parents, too!), it’s the perfect spot for rainy days or anytime energy levels are high. Younger kids can explore the Tubes Indoor Playground. Meanwhile, older kids and teens take on Wipeout. Or the daring Leap of Faith! Parents can relax at the on-site café and watch the fun unfold. With safe, engaging attractions and plenty of space to explore, Urban Air is a thrilling indoor adventure park for kids in Apple Valley.
Kelley Park
6855 Fortino St, Apple Valley, MN 55124
Kelley Park is a family favorite in Apple Valley, and its updated Purple Bear Playground gives families even more reasons to visit! 🐻💜 The newly renovated park features a fun bear-themed playground with plenty of opportunities to climb, slide, explore and play.
Families can also cool off at the interactive splash pad, explore the park’s town square-style layout, relax in the green space, or enjoy the amphitheater and picnic areas. Kids can climb and play throughout the colorful playground, while families can take advantage of the looped trail, expanded parking, food-truck space and other updated amenities. With its playful purple bear theme and variety of things to do, Kelley Park is a great spot for an afternoon of family fun.
Johnny Cake Ridge Park (East and West)
East Side: 5800 140th St W, Apple Valley, MN 55124
West Side: 14255 Johnny Cake Ridge Rd, Apple Valley, MN 55124
For kid-friendly outdoor activities in Apple Valley, Johnny Cake Ridge Park offers two vibrant spaces (East and West), each filled with family-friendly amenities. If you’re looking for wide open spaces to run or put together a family ball game, this is the spot!
At Johnny Cake Ridge Park East, families will find a welcoming mix of playgrounds, picnic shelters, and ballfields. It’s the perfect place for a casual pick-up game or summer gatherings with friends. Littles can play, swing, and slide at the playground. Meanwhile, teens may prefer to join a friendly volleyball game. Near the play areas, parents can grill lunch or relax in the shaded picnic area.
Nearby, Johnny Cake Ridge Park West keeps the fun going year-round with an ice rink and warming house in winter. Then, warmer weather means pickleball, tennis, and a skatepark! With restrooms, concessions, and plenty of green space, both parks make it easy for families to play, picnic, and enjoy the beautiful weather together.
Galaxie Library
14955 Galaxie Ave, Apple Valley, MN 55124
For creative indoor fun in Apple Valley, the Galaxie Library is an exciting place for kids to play, imagine, and read. The library’s colorful children’s area offers interactive features. Kids love the giant Lite-Brite wall and the magnetic wall. Both activities are filled with kid-friendly pieces that invite hands-on exploration! Plus, young storytellers can perform in the kid-sized amphitheater. Toddlers also enjoy a special room designed just for them, with exhibits at their level.
Parents will also appreciate the quiet atmosphere, cozy reading spots, and a variety of programs for all ages. Whether escaping the rain or the summer heat, the Galaxie Library offers a bright, welcoming space where kids can read, play, sing, and explore year-round.
Pahl’s Market
6885 160th St W, Apple Valley, MN 55124
For a taste of farm life, local flavor, and family fun, Pahl’s Market in Apple Valley is a year-round favorite. This sixth-generation family farm has grown from selling produce out of a truck to becoming one of the Twin Cities’ most beloved garden centers and seasonal destinations. Families can stroll through the greenhouses. Browse homegrown produce. And shop for plants, gifts, and seasonal décor at the market.
Throughout the year, Pahl’s hosts family-friendly events like a spring Easter egg hunt, greenhouse tours, and a lively Fall Festival. The Fall Festival is a family favorite, complete with a corn box, pallet maze, pumpkin bouncer, and more. Whether you’re picking out pumpkins, sampling pickles, or admiring colorful blooms, Pahl’s Market offers plenty of fun, seasonal things to do in Apple Valley with your kids.
Rita’s Italian Ice
Cobblestone Lake Commercial, 15594 Pilot Knob Rd, Suite #400, Apple Valley, MN 55124
For a cool and colorful treat, Rita’s Italian Ice in Apple Valley is a kid-favorite destination. With Italian ice, frozen custard, gelati, and milkshakes, everyone can find something to enjoy. Kids love playful flavors like Cotton Candy, Cherry, and Rocket Pop.
Every treat is made fresh daily, ensuring a smooth, flavorful experience with every bite. Rita’s is more than frozen treats. Their mission is to create happiness and memories. Each visit brings friendly service, a rotating menu of over 95 flavors, and a community-focused vibe. Stop by and let the kids enjoy a sweet taste of fun. This is one of the best places to eat ice cream in Apple Valley with kids!
Fun Parks near Apple Valley that are Worth the Quick Trek
Looking for even more fun things to do near Apple Valley with kids? A short drive can take you and your kids to fantastic parks perfect for a family outing. Here are two honorable mentions just minutes from Apple Valley:
- Woodhaven Park in Eagan. This outdoor park and playground is a hidden gem for families. Woodhaven Park features a sensory-rich, accessible, and all-inclusive playground. Kids can climb, swing, and explore to their heart’s delight. Plus, this destination playground even has a Bankshot basketball court!
- Good Times Park in Eagan (3265 Northwood Circle, Suite 100, Eagan, MN 55121). True to its name, this colorful indoor playground delivers endless fun for kids. It features a modern indoor playground, basketball court, jumping pillow, ninja course, soccer field, and more. They even have an indoor picnic area for snacks and lunch brought from home. Or, snag a quick treat from the vending machines.
Kid-Friendly Activities Just a Short Drive from Apple Valley
Families searching for kid-friendly activities near Apple Valley have no shortage of options just a short drive away. Add these nearby honorable mentions to your bucket list for an upcoming family outing. Each attraction is just minutes from Apple Valley and promises hours of fun and adventure for kids.
- Grand Slam in Burnsville. A classic family entertainment center, Grand Slam offers batting cages, mini golf, laser tag, and a video arcade. With so many fun activities, it is a hit with kids of all ages and interests! If you need an exciting spot to burn off energy on a rainy or snowy day, this is the place!
- Skateville Family Rollerskating Center in Burnsville. This indoor roller skating rink offers nostalgic fun for the whole family. With skate rentals, music, and special themed nights, it’s a fantastic place for active play and kid-friendly entertainment.
- Mall of America in Bloomington. Beyond the typical mall shopping, the Mall of America features several beloved family-friendly attractions. Think Nickelodeon Universe, SEA LIFE Aquarium, and Crayola Experience. With endless kid-centric attractions, the Mall of America is a must-visit for a fun day trip.
- Holiday Inn Lakeville is a family favorite hotel—even for local families looking for a staycation! Just 15 minutes south of Apple Valley, families adore the indoor children’s pool with a slide. It’s an affordable and fun spot for a night of splashing and swimming together! Plus, the rooms are comfortable, and kids eat free.
Have Fun Exploring Apple Valley with Your Kids!
Apple Valley is filled with kid-friendly fun that will keep the whole family entertained. Spend sunny afternoons at parks, playgrounds, and splash pads. Or, when the weather calls for indoor adventures, Millz House and Urban Air Trampoline offer climbing, bouncing, and games for kids of all ages. Don’t forget to treat the family to something sweet at Rita’s Italian Ice! From beautiful parks and playgrounds to indoor attractions and tasty treats, Apple Valley has something for every family outing. Grab the kids, explore the city, and make a day of it. Apple Valley, Minnesota, has no shortage of memories to make!
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.
