Fun Activities for Kids to Experience in Minneapolis This Summer

Don't worry, you don't have to keep the kids bored in the house all summer. We have some ideas for how to keep them occupied with fun activities all across Minneapolis.

1. Virtual Reality/Gaming
Keep your video-game-loving kids active by exploring the world of virtual reality. REM5's state-of-the-art VR Lab is a hit for all ages and interests. Get your kids off the couch and transform them into Spiderman, a fruit ninja, a star quarterback and more.

2. Museums
If your kids missed out on field trips while everyone was trying out distanced learning, they'll be excited to hear about all the new exhibits happening at our museums. The Bakken, Walker Art Center, Science Museum, Mia, American Swedish Institute and The Bell Museum are all ready to welcome you back and expand your knowledge.

3. Cooking Classes
Have an aspiring chef experimenting in your kitchen? Get them some professional training with Cooks of Crocus Hill's Kids Camps. Classes range from global cuisine to baking to recreating popular restaurant dishes. 

4. Solve a Puzzle
Get your kids thinking creatively by trying to solve their way out of an escape room at Trapped Puzzle Rooms. Race against the clock while finding clues in "Diagonal Alley", uncover secrets in a supervillain's lair or travel back in time and help save a kingdom. 

5. Beaches and Parks
Do your kids need some place to release their energy? Minneapolis is full of parks and beaches where you can run and swim, and still keep your distance.
Beaches are open during regular park hours, from 6 a.m. to midnight daily. Check individual beaches to see when lifeguards will be on duty.
If you don't feel like swimming, why not take a picnic to the park? With so many takeout options, and plenty of green space to spread out, social distancing suddenly doesn't seem so bad. Grab your favorite food, bring a blanket, and enjoy some outdoor time with the kids!

6. Water Taxi
If your kids enjoy being out on the water then they'll love the Minneapolis Water Taxi experience. This hour-long boat ride can accommodate a family of 6 and takes you on a trip up and down the Mississippi River. The whole family will get to take in incredible views of the city and appreciate some nice relaxing time on the river.

7. Patio Dining
The whole family can enjoy a mix of food and sunshine, by going out to lunch at one of the many patios that are now open. It's the perfect way introduce your kids to your favorite restaurant spots around the city.

8. Go Out for Ice Cream
What could be better on a hot summer day than a scoop or two...or three of ice cream? Many Minneapolis ice cream shops serve up plenty of unique flavors that are sure to put a smile on your kid's face.

9. Minnesota Zoo
Visit our animal friends again at the Minnesota Zoo. Take a stroll through the tropical rain forest enjoying natural waterfalls and exotic wildlife. Afterwards, wander around Discovery Bay and marvel over the serene aquariums and marine wildlife. Or learn about what's in our own backyard at the Minnesota Trail. Whichever road you take you'll find endless learning opportunities.

10. Twins Game
Get your kids cheering for the home team at a Minnesota Twins game. Target Field provides a beautiful outdoor atmosphere, delicious and kid-friendly food options and a reason to dance, sing and sometimes even yell and shout in public.


​https://www.minneapolis.org/things-to-do/seasonal/summer/kid-activities/?fbclid=IwAR2EOgkd8DZnNAX1BgzHBgm8d8CdznY6Wj0T2sv0mJ0A9m_FaguEBGuzz_M