My Favorite things to do with Kids in Minneapolis!

Introduction

I’m bias but Minneapolis is an amazing city to live in, and there are so many things to do with kids! We have parks galore, fun museums, lots of local shops and boutiques, and plenty of places to eat. Whether you live here or are visiting Here are a few of my favorites.

Leonardos basement

Leonardos is a great place to go with kids. It’s located in the heart of South Minneapolis, and you can have a lot of fun there. The age limit is six years old, so it’s perfect for kids going into first grade. They have lots of activities that your kids will love: make inventions using hand tools and repurposed materials; create art from recycled materials or play on their playground equipment. You can even rent out a room for birthday parties! They even have lego classes to take with your kiddos!

Movies in the Park Minneapolis Park summer

If you’re looking for a fun and affordable way to spend an evening with your kids, consider Movies in the Park Minneapolis Park summer. This event takes place every Thursday night at dusk throughout July and August, so you can take advantage of it once or twice without having to go back-to-back nights. It’s also free! Did I say free? So when you kids lost their minds and you have to leave half way through the movie- no biggie!

The movies are shown on a big screen that’s set up in one of the parks’ grassy areas–the location changes each week–and there will be concessions available for purchase before or during the movie (think popcorn, candy and water). There will also be music playing prior to each showtime from local bands who have been chosen by city officials as being appropriate for all ages.

The best part about this? You don’t need tickets ahead of time because there aren’t any – just show up! Honestly you can’t go wrong with Movies in the park. As a mom- it’s one that always makes my list for summer activities to do with my kids. If you have younger children make sure to check out my favorite things to toddlers.

Paddle Boarding on Lake Harriet

We just started this last summer and it was great for one of my kiddos. The one that has little patience and like to move and groove non-stop still prefers jumping off and swimming. Either way it was a day well spent. You can rent paddle boards at Lake Harriet, or you can bring your own. This is seriously a great way to spend time with your kids and get them outside in the summer thats just a beautiful location.

If they fall in, don’t worry! Just be sure they are wearing life jackets and know how to swim before going out on the water.

Splash pads and water parks

We love water and seek it out in all forms around the twin cities. Splash pads are a great way to cool off in the summer, and there’s one around every corner. You can find them all over Minneapolis – so you’ll never be too far from one when you need it most. If your kids love splashing around in puddles or playing with hoses at home, they’ll love splash pads too!

Water parks are another fun option for hot days where you want more than just a sprinkler or hose. We loved Richfield when my kids were small and now prefer Edina. Honestly, they both are great. I just suggest you go on off times so it’s not too busy!

Beach Days!

• Lake Harriet
• Minnehaha Falls
• Minnehada Park Beach (Hiawatha)
• Lake Calhoun (I like this one because it’s right in the heart of Uptown Minneapolis and you can walk around pretty much all day without having to go far)
• Bring plenty of towels, sunscreen, hats and water bottles! You never know how hot or cold it will be outside so it’s good to be prepared. Also, bring some snacks if your kids are hungry since there isn’t any food nearby other than what you brought with you! We love a pop up tent for shade. Basically have a bag you never unpack for the beach and just restock. Makes beach life so much easier!

There are lots of fun things to do with kids in Minneapolis!

Minneapolis is a fantastic city to raise a family. There are many things to do with kids! We love Minneapolis for all of these reasons. My family was made for minneapolis summers- Winter not so much.

Conclusion

There are so many fun things to do with kids in Minneapolis! I hope this list has inspired you to get out there and explore all that this amazing city has to offer. If you have any other ideas, please leave them in the comments below! Thank you for reading and Happy Parenting!