Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Maynards
★3.4(487 reviews)$$Restaurant
🕑 1-1.5 hours👶 Best for all ages. The kids' menu and comfortable booth seating work well for toddlers through teens, while the casual atmosphere means parents don't need to worry about restless little ones.
About
A Hopkins institution since 1938, Maynards offers classic American comfort food in a relaxed, no-fuss atmosphere that welcomes families with open arms. The longstanding restaurant features a dedicated kids' menu and the kind of welcoming vibe where parents can relax while children enjoy familiar favorites in the heart of historic downtown Hopkins.
Highlights
- ✓Dedicated kids' menu with American classics children actually want to eat
- ✓Casual, relaxed atmosphere where families feel genuinely welcome
- ✓Historic setting in downtown Hopkins since 1938
- ✓Comfortable booth seating ideal for families
- ✓Classic comfort food that appeals to picky eaters
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early for dinner (before 6pm) to avoid the evening rush and get seated faster with hungry kids in tow
- 2.Request a booth when you arrive,they're more spacious for families and give kids a sense of their own space
- 3.The restaurant is located in walkable downtown Hopkins, so consider arriving early to explore the nearby shops and parks before your meal
- 4.Parking is available on Excelsior Boulevard and in nearby public lots,the municipal lot behind Mainstreet is usually your best bet
- 5.Ask about their daily specials, which often include family-friendly portions at good value
Best Time to Visit
Weekday lunches or early dinners (4:30-5:30pm) on weekends offer the quietest experience. Weekend brunches can get busy but have a lively, family-friendly energy that many parents enjoy.
What to Know
Moderately priced ($$) with most entrees under $15 and a kids' menu available. Street and public lot parking available in downtown Hopkins within easy walking distance.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round. The location in downtown Hopkins makes it a convenient stop after visiting nearby Central Park in summer or during Hopkins' seasonal events and festivals.
Follow Maynards
More Activities Near Hopkins
Adventure
Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail
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Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail offers families a beautifully maintained paved path perfect for introducing kids to biking adventures or enjoying a leisurely stroller walk. The scenic creek views and gentle terrain make it ideal for all skill levels, from toddlers just learning to balance to older kids ready to log some serious miles on their bikes.
Theater
Hopkins Center For the Arts
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The Hopkins Center for the Arts brings culture and creativity to families through engaging theater productions, hands-on art classes, and seasonal camps in a welcoming historic building. Located in the heart of downtown Hopkins, this community arts hub offers year-round programming designed to spark imagination and introduce children to the performing and visual arts in an accessible, family-friendly atmosphere.
Park
Burnes Park
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Burnes Park is a quintessential neighborhood gem in Hopkins that delivers everything active families need for an afternoon of outdoor fun. With its well-maintained playground equipment, multiple sports courts and fields, and generous open spaces for running around, this park offers the perfect mix of structured play and free exploration that keeps kids entertained for hours.
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Cottageville Park
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Cottageville Park is a welcoming Hopkins neighborhood gem that offers everything families need for a classic park day. With well-maintained playground structures for multiple age groups, open sports fields perfect for pickup games, and shaded walking paths for stroller-pushing parents, this 4.6-star park provides a comfortable outdoor escape without traveling far from the western suburbs.