


St. Louis Park Library - Hennepin County Library
About
St. Louis Park Library is a welcoming community hub that goes far beyond books, offering an extensive children's section designed to spark young imaginations. With regular storytimes, hands-on educational programs, and engaging family events throughout the year, this modern library provides a perfect indoor activity where kids can explore, learn, and play in a calm, comfortable environment.
Highlights
- ✓Engaging storytimes with songs, movement, and interactive elements for various age groups
- ✓Spacious children's section with cozy reading nooks and age-appropriate book displays
- ✓Educational programs including STEM activities, craft sessions, and summer reading challenges
- ✓Free access to educational toys, puzzles, and learning materials
- ✓Family-friendly events throughout the year including holiday celebrations and author visits
Pro Tips
- 1.Sign up for a free library card online before your visit to check out books and register for programs immediately
- 2.Arrive 10-15 minutes early for popular storytimes as they can fill up quickly, especially during winter months
- 3.Check their online calendar before visiting to catch special events like craft days, author visits, or family movie nights
- 4.Visit on weekday mornings for the quietest experience and easiest access to staff help
- 5.Take advantage of the late Tuesday-Thursday hours (until 8:00 PM) for after-dinner family visits when other activities are closed
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (9:00-11:00 AM) offer the calmest atmosphere for browsing and exploring. Tuesday-Thursday afternoons are ideal if you want to attend scheduled programming, while Sunday afternoons work well for families wanting a relaxed weekend activity without early wake-ups.
What to Know
Completely free to visit and use all facilities. Ample parking available in the dedicated lot. While the library doesn't allow outside food in most areas, there's typically a designated space for snacks if needed.
Seasonal Notes
Summer reading programs (June-August) are particularly popular with special prizes and activities. Winter months see increased attendance for storytimes and indoor programs. Check the library's calendar for holiday closures and special seasonal events like winter craft workshops and spring break activities.
Nearby Eats
Punch Pizza on Excelsior Blvd (about 1 mile away) offers Neapolitan-style pizzas in a casual family atmosphere. For a quick bite, Panera Bread at Knollwood Mall provides kid-friendly soups, sandwiches, and bakery treats with plenty of seating.
More Activities Near St. Louis Park
Wolfe Park
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.
Westwood Hills Nature Center
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.
Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins
Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins offers families a perfect blend of camping comfort and outdoor adventure just outside the Twin Cities. Kids can explore wooded trails, burn energy on playgrounds and basketball courts, then retreat to cozy cabins for a hassle-free camping experience without the tent setup.
St. Louis Park Rec Center
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.