Things To Do With Kids in Minnetonka, MN

Giannis Steakhouse & Seafood offers families a relaxed lakeside dining experience with stunning Lake Minnetonka views that keep kids entertained while you enjoy quality steak and seafood. The dedicated kids menu and outdoor seating options make this a comfortable choice for families who want a nice meal out without the stress of overly formal dining.

CōV Wayzata offers a rare combination of upscale-casual dining and outdoor fun right on Lake Minnetonka. While parents enjoy fresh seafood and craft cocktails on the waterfront patio, kids can play beach volleyball, watch boats cruise through the marina, and order from a dedicated kids menu that keeps even picky eaters happy.

The Eden Prairie Historical Society Museum offers children a hands-on glimpse into pioneer life with authentic artifacts, period clothing they can try on, and interactive exhibits that bring local history to life. This small but engaging museum makes history accessible for young learners through special educational programs and kid-friendly displays that showcase what life was like for early Minnesota settlers.

Purgatory Creek Park Pavilion offers families an incredible outdoor adventure with over 5 miles of trails perfect for exploring with kids of all ages. The paved paths are stroller-friendly, while adventurous families can tackle mountain biking trails together, and the scenic creek provides endless opportunities for spotting turtles, frogs, and birds along the way.

Aquila Park is a welcoming neighborhood gem in St. Louis Park that delivers everything families need for an active outdoor day. With well-maintained playground equipment, tennis courts, open athletic fields, and plenty of shaded picnic areas, it's perfect for everything from casual playground visits to full-day family gatherings with sports and games.

Meadowbrook Golf Course offers an excellent introduction to golf for young players in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. With dedicated junior programs and practice facilities, this Golden Valley course welcomes beginners and helps kids build confidence while learning proper technique in a supportive environment that doesn't intimidate first-time golfers.

The Minnehaha Creek Greenway offers families a beautiful, paved multi-use trail that winds alongside the tranquil Minnehaha Creek through Edina. It's an ideal spot for easy family bike rides, nature walks, or letting kids practice their rollerblading skills in a safe, scenic environment away from traffic. The gentle terrain and peaceful creek views make this trail accessible for even young riders with training wheels.

Frio Frio brings ice cream entertainment to St. Louis Park with their mesmerizing cold stone mixing technique that kids absolutely love to watch. Families can create endless custom combinations as staff expertly blend mix-ins on frozen granite slabs right before your eyes, making dessert time an interactive performance that's as fun to watch as it is to eat.

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.

The Chanhassen Library is a family favorite with an impressive 4.8-star rating, offering much more than just books. This modern community hub delivers excellent children's programming including regular storytimes, engaging summer reading challenges, and educational activities designed to spark young minds while giving parents a welcoming space to explore literacy and learning together.

Westwood Hills Nature Center offers 63 acres of outdoor exploration perfect for getting kids connected with nature right in the heart of St. Louis Park. With miles of easy hiking trails, live animal exhibits, hands-on nature displays, and excellent educational programming, it's an ideal spot for families to spend a morning or afternoon discovering local wildlife and ecosystems without venturing far from the Twin Cities metro.

General Mills Nature Preserve offers families an easy escape into nature right in Golden Valley. This 27-acre gem features well-maintained walking trails and boardwalks that wind through beautiful wetlands, making it perfect for introducing kids to local wildlife and ecosystems without venturing far from the city.

Chanhassen Dinner Theatres combines Broadway-caliber musical entertainment with family dining in an intimate theater setting that brings kids up close to the magic. With multiple stages featuring family-friendly productions throughout the year, it's a wonderful way to introduce children to live theater while enjoying a complete meal together before the show.

Parkers Lake Community Playfield is a versatile lakeside destination that offers something for every member of the family. With a well-equipped playground, open sports fields for active play, fishing access for budding anglers, and scenic walking trails that wind around the lake, this park makes it easy to spend an entire afternoon outdoors without anyone getting bored.

Eden Prairie Library is a modern, welcoming space that goes beyond books with its extensive children's section designed to spark young imaginations. With regular storytimes, engaging summer reading programs, and family-friendly technology resources including tablets and educational games, it's a fantastic free destination for learning and entertainment rain or shine.

Eden Prairie Center offers more than just shopping,it's a family destination with a dedicated kids' play area, diverse dining options, and year-round community events that keep children entertained. The mall's spacious layout and variety of stores make it easy to combine errands with family fun, especially on hot summer days or cold Minnesota winters when indoor activities are essential.

Brookview Golden Valley is a year-round family recreation hub that truly delivers on variety. With an indoor pool, ice skating rink, snow tubing hills in winter, and a golf course plus outdoor activities in summer, this facility ensures families have engaging options no matter the season or weather.

Eden Prairie Outdoor Center is a year-round family destination that truly has it all. With a sandy beach on Staring Lake, playground equipment, fishing opportunities, paddle boat rentals in summer, and excellent sledding hills in winter, this park keeps kids entertained no matter the season. The well-maintained trails are perfect for family walks, and the variety of activities means siblings of different ages can all find something they enjoy.

Brookview Park is a Golden Valley gem that truly delivers year-round family fun. With multiple playgrounds for different age groups, expansive open spaces for running around, and popular sledding hills that draw families from across the metro area in winter, this park has something for every season and every energy level.

Lake Ann Park is a Chanhassen gem that offers something for every family member throughout the year. The sandy swimming beach and fishing pier make it a summer favorite, while the scenic walking trails and playground provide year-round entertainment. With picnic areas overlooking the beautiful lake, it's perfect for everything from quick afternoon outings to full-day family adventures.

Lake Susan Park is a family-friendly gem in Chanhassen offering the perfect blend of active play and nature exploration. With its accessible fishing dock where kids can try catching their first fish, a well-equipped playground, and scenic walking trails that circle the lake, families can easily spend hours enjoying both structured play and natural discovery.

Wolfe Park is St. Louis Park's crown jewel for family fun, offering something for everyone with its expansive playground equipment, refreshing splash pad, and wide open spaces perfect for picnics and play. The park's summer concert series at the amphitheater creates magical evening outings where kids can dance on the lawn while parents relax under the stars.

Valley Square Commons is a welcoming neighborhood park in Golden Valley that's perfect for families with young children looking for a relaxed outdoor play experience. With its well-maintained playground structures and generous open spaces for running around, it's an ideal spot for burning energy on a sunny afternoon while parents can enjoy the community atmosphere.

The Edina Art Center is a welcoming community art hub where families can create together through hands-on workshops, pottery classes, and seasonal programs. With its highly-rated family workshops and dedicated children's summer camps, it's the perfect spot for budding artists to explore painting, ceramics, sculpture, and mixed media in a supportive, creative environment.

The St. Louis Park Rec Center is a year-round family favorite offering everything from indoor swimming and ice skating to organized sports leagues and fitness classes. With its impressive 4.5-star rating from hundreds of families, this community hub provides affordable, climate-controlled fun whether you're looking to beat the summer heat in the pool or enjoy winter ice skating.

Wooden Hill Brewing is a refreshingly family-friendly neighborhood brewery where parents can enjoy craft beers while kids are genuinely welcomed and entertained. With a dedicated kids menu, board games to keep little ones busy, and a spacious patio for warmer days, this Edina spot strikes the perfect balance between adult relaxation and family dining.

Life Time St. Louis Park is a comprehensive family fitness and recreation destination that goes far beyond a typical gym. With indoor and outdoor pools, a rock climbing wall, dedicated kids' programs, summer camps, and on-site childcare, it's designed to keep the whole family active and entertained under one roof.

Bluff Creek Elementary School opens its well-maintained playground to the public during non-school hours, offering families in Chanhassen a safe, modern play space without the cost of admission. The combination of updated play equipment and open fields makes it an ideal spot for burning energy after school or on weekends.

Fredrick-Miller Spring offers families a peaceful escape into nature right in Eden Prairie. Kids can explore interpretive trails winding through authentic prairie landscapes, discover educational signage that turns a walk into a learning adventure, and observe wildlife around the natural spring. It's an ideal spot for introducing children to native Minnesota ecosystems without venturing far from the city.

Riley Creek Conservation Area is a spacious Eden Prairie gem that offers something for every member of the family. With multiple playgrounds catering to different age groups, expansive open fields perfect for kite flying or pickup games, and well-maintained walking trails winding through natural areas, this park delivers hours of outdoor fun without the crowds of larger metro parks.

Red Cow 50th & France is a neighborhood gem that elevates the casual burger joint with creative gourmet burgers, hand-crafted sodas, and a dedicated kids menu in a laid-back atmosphere. The welcoming vibe and attentive service make it easy for parents to relax while kids enjoy quality comfort food that's a step above typical fast-casual fare.

The Chanhassen Recreation Center is a one-stop destination for active families, offering an indoor pool perfect for year-round swimming, an exciting climbing wall that challenges kids of all skill levels, and a gymnasium hosting various sports programs. With extensive youth programming and drop-in activities, this full-service facility keeps kids entertained while parents can enjoy fitness areas or join in the family fun.

50th & France is a charming, walkable shopping district in Edina that's perfect for a leisurely family outing. With its tree-lined streets, kid-friendly boutiques, delicious ice cream shops, and family restaurants all within easy strolling distance, it offers a pleasant alternative to mall shopping. The neighborhood hosts year-round community events and festivals that create a festive, small-town atmosphere kids will enjoy.

Flying Cloud Airport offers a thrilling, free aviation experience where kids can watch small planes, helicopters, and private jets take off and land from just feet away. The observation areas provide an up-close look at general aviation that's far more intimate than a commercial airport, and special fly-in events throughout the year add extra excitement with vintage aircraft displays and pilot meet-and-greets.

Breck School McKnight Stadium offers families a well-maintained athletic complex perfect for active kids who love sports and outdoor play. With quality ball fields, open green spaces for running around, and walking paths for family strolls, it's an ideal spot for everything from impromptu soccer games to organized practices and watching school sporting events.

Sebastian Joe's is a Minneapolis institution that's been delighting families with homemade ice cream since 1984. Kids will love choosing from creative, small-batch flavors served in fresh-made waffle cones, while parents appreciate the quality ingredients and nostalgic neighborhood atmosphere that makes this a true local gem worth seeking out.

Centennial Lakes Park is Edina's crown jewel for family fun, offering a stunning 24-acre oasis where kids can paddle boat across scenic lakes, putt through mini golf courses, and splash in fountains during summer. With paved walking paths perfect for strollers, winter ice skating, and beautifully landscaped grounds, this versatile park delivers year-round entertainment that keeps families coming back season after season.

Wirth Beach House offers families a perfect urban beach escape in Theodore Wirth Park with sandy shores ideal for castle-building, supervised swimming areas for safe splashing, and plenty of shaded picnic spots for lunch breaks. The adjacent trails make it easy to combine beach time with a nature walk or bike ride, giving you a full day of outdoor adventure without leaving the metro area.

The University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum offers families an expansive outdoor adventure across 1,200 acres of beautifully maintained gardens, woodlands, and prairies. With miles of kid-friendly hiking trails, interactive nature discovery areas, and year-round seasonal activities from summer concerts to winter snowshoeing, it's an ideal destination for families wanting to explore nature without traveling far from the Twin Cities.

While Hazeltine National Golf Club is primarily a prestigious golf course, the surrounding Chanhassen area offers beautiful scenic trails perfect for family walks and bike rides. Families can enjoy peaceful outdoor time exploring the well-maintained paths that wind through the neighborhoods near this landmark location, making it ideal for low-key nature outings and safe exercise opportunities.

Bassett Creek Park offers families a peaceful retreat with the perfect blend of nature exploration and playground fun. The scenic walking paths along the creek provide excellent opportunities for spotting wildlife and teaching kids about local ecosystems, while the playground equipment keeps younger children entertained for hours. Its natural setting makes it ideal for families looking to unplug and enjoy outdoor time together.

Edinborough Park is an indoor wonderland that saves the day when Minnesota weather won't cooperate. This spacious community center features a stunning one-acre indoor park complete with a playground, splash pad, and amphitheater under a beautiful glass roof, plus seasonal amenities like an outdoor pool and fitness facilities,making it a year-round destination for active families.

Memorial Park in Shakopee offers families a perfect riverside escape along the Minnesota River with something for everyone. The well-maintained playground keeps little ones entertained while scenic walking paths and expansive picnic areas make it ideal for family gatherings, afternoon adventures, or watching boats glide by on the water.

Valleyfair is Minnesota's premier amusement park offering something for every age with over 75 rides and attractions spread across the park and Soak City water park. From thrilling roller coasters for teens to the dedicated Planet Snoopy area for little ones, plus a full water park included with admission, families can easily spend an entire day (or multiple days) enjoying this 125-acre entertainment destination.

Donaldson Park is a beloved Richfield neighborhood gem that delivers classic outdoor fun for the whole family. With its well-kept playground equipment, open athletic fields for impromptu games, and shaded picnic shelters, it's the perfect spot for everything from toddler playdates to family gatherings. The paved walking paths make it stroller-friendly, while the spacious layout gives kids plenty of room to run and explore.

Huber Park is a beloved Shakopee community gem that offers something for every family member. With its well-maintained playground equipment, extensive walking trails, and wide-open green spaces, it's the perfect spot for everything from toddler play dates to family picnics and casual ball games. The park's thoughtful layout and variety of amenities make it easy to spend several hours here without the kids getting bored.

Clancey's Meats & Fish is a beloved Minneapolis neighborhood spot that cleverly combines a butcher shop and deli with a surprisingly family-friendly cafe atmosphere. Parents can enjoy quality coffee and browse locally-sourced products while kids stay entertained in the play area, making it an ideal spot for a casual lunch or quick bite when running errands on Grand Avenue.

Augsburg Park is a beloved Richfield neighborhood gem that delivers exactly what families need for an active outdoor day. With its well-maintained playground, open athletic fields, basketball courts, and shaded picnic areas, this park offers the perfect mix of structured play and open space for kids to run free.

The Children's Theatre Company is one of the nation's premier professional theaters dedicated entirely to young audiences, bringing beloved stories to life with Broadway-quality productions, innovative staging, and age-appropriate storytelling. With an impressive 4.8-star rating from over 1,400 families, this Minneapolis gem offers everything from classic fairy tales to contemporary stories, ensuring kids experience the magic of live theater at its finest.

The Shakopee Community Center is a family-friendly hub offering year-round indoor fun for kids of all ages. With an indoor pool, spacious gymnasium, and diverse programming including everything from swim lessons to youth sports, it's the perfect spot for active families looking to burn energy regardless of Minnesota's weather. The center's high rating reflects its clean facilities, welcoming staff, and variety of drop-in activities that make it a local favorite.

Tahpah Park is a beloved Shakopee destination that combines the best of summer fun with its free splash pad featuring interactive water features that keep kids cool on hot days. Beyond the splash pad, families can enjoy a well-equipped playground, basketball courts, and shaded picnic areas, making it perfect for extended family outings without spending a dime.

Richfield Dual Language School offers a modern playground that's open to neighborhood families when school isn't in session. This convenient community resource features up-to-date play equipment perfect for burning off energy after school hours, on weekends, and during summer break.

SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium offers an immersive underwater adventure in the heart of Bloomington's Mall of America complex. Kids can walk through a spectacular 300-foot ocean tunnel with sharks swimming overhead, get hands-on at interactive touch pools with sea stars and anemones, and meet thousands of fascinating sea creatures from seahorses to stingrays. The indoor setting makes it a perfect year-round destination regardless of Minnesota's weather.

Cooks of Crocus Hill transforms mealtime into memories with hands-on parent-child cooking classes that teach real culinary skills in a fun, supportive environment. Kids don aprons and work alongside parents to create delicious dishes from scratch, learning everything from basic knife skills to complete meal preparation while building confidence in the kitchen.

The Savage Tap offers a unique family entertainment experience that goes beyond typical dining. This casual outdoor venue combines food trucks, lawn games, and the exciting thrill of axe throwing in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere where parents can unwind while kids stay entertained.

The Works Museum is an engineer's dream playground where kids become hands-on inventors and problem-solvers. This interactive museum lets children dive deep into the world of mechanical engineering by building with real pulleys, gears, levers, and other engineering components. Unlike traditional museums, everything here is designed to be touched, manipulated, and experimented with, making it perfect for curious minds who love to figure out how things work.

FlyOver America at Mall of America offers families an unforgettable virtual flight adventure across iconic American landscapes without leaving Minnesota. This thrilling flight simulation ride combines a massive spherical screen with moving seats, wind effects, and gentle mist to make kids feel like they're truly soaring over mountains, coastlines, and cityscapes,no passport required!

Mississippi River Park offers families a peaceful escape with scenic, stroller-friendly trails perfect for biking, walking, or scooting alongside the mighty Mississippi. The easy, well-maintained paths make it ideal for young cyclists learning to ride and toddlers who want to explore nature without challenging terrain, all while taking in stunning river views that provide endless opportunities for spotting boats, birds, and wildlife.