Things to do in Minneapolis: Based on NeemTime research from most popular to just popular.
Mall of America®, Minneapolis
Overview: Mall of America® is the largest shopping and entertainment complex in the United States, featuring over 500 stores, an indoor amusement park, an aquarium, and countless dining options.
History: Built on the former site of the Metropolitan Stadium, Mall of America opened as a mega retail and entertainment destination to revitalize the Twin Cities’ economy.
Since When: It officially opened its doors to the public on August 11, 1992.
Review: Visitors consistently praise its vast variety, family-friendly attractions, and unique indoor experiences, although it can be overwhelming due to its size.
When to Go: Ideal to visit year-round, especially in winter months (November to March) when indoor attractions provide a warm escape.
How to Go: Easily accessible by car via I-494, by Metro Blue Line light rail, or from MSP Airport, which is only a few minutes away.
What to Do: Shop at global brands, ride roller coasters at Nickelodeon Universe, visit SEA LIFE Aquarium, and enjoy live events and dining.
Free or Paid: Entry to the mall is free, but rides, attractions, and some experiences are paid.
U.S. Bank Stadium, Minneapolis
Overview: U.S. Bank Stadium is a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose sports venue and home to the NFL’s Minnesota Vikings, known for its modern glass design and vibrant event calendar.
History: Built to replace the aging Metrodome, the stadium was constructed as a public-private partnership to enhance Minneapolis’s downtown sports and event infrastructure.
Since When: It opened on July 22, 2016, with a series of concerts and public tours.
Review: Visitors admire its sleek architecture, clean facilities, and vibrant game-day atmosphere, although concessions can be pricey.
When to Go: Best visited during NFL season (September to January) or when attending concerts and major events throughout the year.
How to Go: Located downtown, it’s accessible via Metro Green and Blue lines, with nearby parking ramps and ride-share zones.
What to Do: Attend football games, concerts, public tours, or seasonal events hosted in the stadium.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid for events, while some public tours and activities require separate tickets.
Target Field, Minneapolis
Overview: Target Field is an open-air baseball stadium in downtown Minneapolis, serving as the home of the Minnesota Twins and offering a modern yet classic ballpark experience.
History: Developed to give the Twins a dedicated venue separate from the Metrodome, the stadium was a key part of downtown redevelopment efforts.
Since When: Officially opened on April 12, 2010, with the Twins’ home opener against the Boston Red Sox.
Review: Fans love the intimate seating, city skyline views, and diverse food options, although weather can be a factor due to its open-air design.
When to Go: Baseball season (April to October) is the best time to visit, especially during night games or weekend series.
How to Go: Located in the North Loop, it’s accessible by light rail, bus, walking, or by car with multiple parking garages nearby.
What to Do: Watch Twins games, take behind-the-scenes stadium tours, and enjoy local craft beer and cuisine.
Free or Paid: Paid entry for games and tours; access to surrounding plaza areas is generally free.
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, Minneapolis
Overview: Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is a family-friendly urban park that combines a small zoo, beautiful botanical gardens, and scenic green spaces.
History: Established in the late 1800s as a public park, it expanded over time to include animal exhibits and a Victorian-style glass conservatory.
Since When: The Marjorie McNeely Conservatory opened in 1915, and the zoo component has evolved since the early 20th century.
Review: Visitors love its free admission, kid-friendly layout, and well-maintained grounds, though it can get crowded during weekends.
When to Go: Ideal from spring through fall (April to October) when animals are active and gardens are in full bloom.
How to Go: Located in St. Paul, it’s a short drive from downtown Minneapolis, with free parking and public transportation options available.
What to Do: Explore animal exhibits, stroll through themed gardens, visit the butterfly house, and ride historic amusement attractions.
Free or Paid: Entry is free, though donations are encouraged and some attractions like rides are paid.
Nickelodeon Universe, Minneapolis
Overview: Nickelodeon Universe is a large indoor theme park located inside Mall of America, offering rides and attractions based on popular Nickelodeon characters.
History: Originally opened as Camp Snoopy in 1992, it was rebranded in 2008 in partnership with Nickelodeon to appeal to younger audiences.
Since When: Operated under the Nickelodeon name since March 15, 2008.
Review: Guests praise the variety of rides for all ages and the convenience of having it indoors, though wristbands can be expensive.
When to Go: Weekdays and early mornings are best to avoid lines, and winter is especially popular for its indoor environment.
How to Go: Located within Mall of America, it’s accessible by car, public transit, and directly from MSP Airport via the Blue Line.
What to Do: Ride thrill rides and family attractions, meet characters, and participate in seasonal events or shows.
Free or Paid: Entry to the park area is free to walk through, but rides and games require a paid pass or tickets.
Minnesota Zoo, Minneapolis
Overview: The Minnesota Zoo is a sprawling, modern zoological park located in Apple Valley near Minneapolis, home to more than 4,500 animals representing over 500 species across themed global habitats.
History: Opened as one of the first zoos to emphasize naturalistic animal environments over cages, the Minnesota Zoo was designed to educate the public and promote wildlife conservation.
Since When: It opened to the public on May 22, 1978.
Review: Visitors appreciate the zoo’s well-maintained habitats, educational programs, and seasonal events, although admission can be pricey for families.
When to Go: Late spring to early fall (May to October) is ideal for visiting due to the outdoor exhibits and milder weather.
How to Go: Located about 30 minutes south of downtown Minneapolis, it is accessible by car with ample parking or via select suburban transit routes.
What to Do: Walk through immersive trails, attend animal feedings and shows, visit the Discovery Bay aquarium, and enjoy family play areas.
Free or Paid: Paid admission is required, with additional charges for certain experiences and parking.
Como Regional Park, Minneapolis
Overview: Como Regional Park is a large public park in St. Paul offering lakeside trails, picnic areas, sports facilities, a zoo, and a conservatory, making it a favorite urban green space.
History: Developed around Como Lake in the 1870s, it evolved into a multi-use recreational area as the Twin Cities grew.
Since When: The park has been a popular public space since the late 19th century and continues to be expanded and improved.
Review: Visitors love its diversity of free attractions, scenic beauty, and accessibility, though parking can be a challenge during peak times.
When to Go: Best enjoyed in spring through fall for full access to boating, gardens, and walking trails.
How to Go: Located just north of I-94, it is accessible by car, public bus, and biking from central St. Paul or Minneapolis.
What to Do: Stroll along Como Lake, visit the zoo and conservatory, play golf, or attend summer events and concerts.
Free or Paid: Mostly free to access, though some amenities or events may have small fees.
The Escape Game Minneapolis, Minneapolis
Overview: The Escape Game Minneapolis offers immersive, themed escape room experiences located in the Mall of America, appealing to thrill-seekers and puzzle enthusiasts of all ages.
History: Part of a national franchise known for high-quality storytelling and production, it brought escape gaming to the Twin Cities’ largest entertainment hub.
Since When: It opened at Mall of America in 2018 as part of the mall’s expansion of interactive attractions.
Review: Visitors consistently rate it highly for its challenging puzzles, friendly staff, and creative room designs.
When to Go: Weekdays or early evenings are best to avoid weekend crowds and ensure booking availability.
How to Go: Located inside Mall of America, it’s reachable by car, light rail (Blue Line), or airport shuttle.
What to Do: Choose from a variety of escape themes, work as a team to solve puzzles, and try to “escape” within 60 minutes.
Free or Paid: It is a paid experience, with ticket prices depending on group size and room type.
Minnehaha Regional Park, Minneapolis
Overview: Minnehaha Regional Park is a picturesque urban park best known for its stunning 53-foot waterfall, wooded trails, and connection to the Mississippi River.
History: One of Minneapolis’s oldest parks, it was established in the late 1800s and gained popularity after being featured in Longfellow’s “The Song of Hiawatha.”
Since When: Officially designated a public park in 1889, with the iconic waterfall being a draw for over a century.
Review: It’s beloved for its natural beauty, especially the waterfall and limestone bluffs, though it can be crowded on summer weekends.
When to Go: Visit from late spring to early fall (May to October) for full access to trails, picnic areas, and open facilities.
How to Go: Easily accessible via car, bike, or the Blue Line LRT to the 50th Street/Minnehaha Park Station.
What to Do: View Minnehaha Falls, hike or bike the trails, rent bikes or surreys, and explore historic sites like the John H. Stevens House.
Free or Paid: Entry to the park is free, but parking typically requires a small fee.
SEA LIFE at Mall of America, Minneapolis
Overview: SEA LIFE at Mall of America is an underground aquarium with immersive exhibits including a 300-foot ocean tunnel, touch pools, and a wide variety of marine life.
History: Originally opened as Underwater Adventures Aquarium, it was rebranded as SEA LIFE after being acquired by Merlin Entertainments.
Since When: It opened in 1996 and was rebranded as SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium in 2011.
Review: Families love the hands-on experiences and exotic sea creatures, though it can get busy during peak mall hours.
When to Go: Best visited on weekdays or early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during school holidays.
How to Go: Located in the lower level of Mall of America, it is easily reached by car, light rail, or bus from downtown Minneapolis or the airport.
What to Do: Walk through the ocean tunnel, touch sea stars and stingrays, attend feeding demonstrations, and learn about conservation.
Free or Paid: Entry requires a paid ticket, with discounts often available online or in combo with other attractions.
Minneapolis Institute of Art, Minneapolis
Overview: The Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) is a renowned fine art museum offering over 90,000 works spanning 5,000 years, including Asian, African, European, and contemporary art collections.
History: Founded through a generous donation from Clinton Morrison in 1883, it became a cultural cornerstone in the Twin Cities with continual expansions and acquisitions.
Since When: The current building opened in 1915, designed by architect McKim, Mead & White.
Review: Visitors consistently praise its vast, high-quality collections and free admission, making it a top educational and cultural attraction.
When to Go: Weekdays or weekend mornings are ideal to avoid large crowds and school groups.
How to Go: Easily accessible by car, bus, or bike, located near downtown Minneapolis in the Whittier neighborhood.
What to Do: Explore world-class exhibits, join free guided tours, attend workshops or special exhibitions, and visit the museum café.
Free or Paid: General admission is free, though special exhibitions or events may have a fee.
Game Show Battle Rooms – Minneapolis (St. Louis Park), Minneapolis
Overview: Game Show Battle Rooms is an interactive entertainment venue that lets you and your group experience the thrill of competing in a live, team-based game show format.
History: Part of a growing trend of immersive, themed entertainment, the Minneapolis location was designed to replicate popular TV game shows.
Since When: It has been open since 2018 in St. Louis Park, a Minneapolis suburb.
Review: Highly rated for its energetic hosts, family-friendly atmosphere, and unique group entertainment value.
When to Go: Weekday evenings or weekends are best for group bookings and special occasions.
How to Go: Located just west of Minneapolis in St. Louis Park, it’s best reached by car with free on-site parking available.
What to Do: Participate in fast-paced games like “Survey Battles” and “Spin and Solve,” perfect for birthdays, team events, or just fun with friends.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid and priced per group, with bookings required in advance.
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, Minneapolis
Overview: The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is a public park that blends art and nature, home to the iconic “Spoonbridge and Cherry” and over 40 outdoor sculptures.
History: Created in collaboration with the Walker Art Center, it opened as one of the first urban sculpture gardens in the U.S.
Since When: It was inaugurated in 1988 and underwent a major renovation in 2017.
Review: It’s a favorite for locals and tourists alike for its striking, photogenic sculptures and peaceful ambiance.
When to Go: Visit in spring through fall to enjoy the full garden experience in comfortable weather.
How to Go: Located near downtown Minneapolis, it’s easily accessible by bus, bike, or car, with nearby parking options.
What to Do: Walk among the sculptures, take photos, relax in the green space, and connect to adjacent Loring Park or Walker Art Center.
Free or Paid: Admission is completely free to the public year-round.
Mississippi National River & Recreation Area, Minneapolis
Overview: The Mississippi National River & Recreation Area is a 72-mile protected corridor along the Mississippi River offering scenic beauty, wildlife, and recreational activities within the urban Twin Cities.
History: Designated as a national park unit in 1988 to preserve and interpret the Mississippi River’s cultural and ecological importance.
Since When: It has been part of the National Park System since November 18, 1988.
Review: Visitors appreciate the blend of urban access and natural beauty, ideal for kayaking, biking, or simply relaxing by the water.
When to Go: Late spring through fall offers the best conditions for river activities and scenic views.
How to Go: Accessible from numerous entry points across Minneapolis and St. Paul via car, bike, or public transit.
What to Do: Hike or bike riverside trails, paddle the river, join ranger-led programs, or visit historical sites like Mill Ruins Park.
Free or Paid: Access is free, though rentals and guided tours may cost extra.
Great Wolf Lodge Water Park | Minnesota, Minneapolis
Overview: Great Wolf Lodge is a family-friendly indoor water park resort offering year-round aquatic fun, themed suites, and activities for all ages near the Mall of America.
History: Part of the Great Wolf Resorts chain, it transformed the former Water Park of America site into a themed lodge experience.
Since When: It opened in December 2017 as the first Great Wolf Lodge in Minnesota.
Review: Families love the convenience, safe environment, and all-inclusive entertainment, though it can be pricey during peak times.
When to Go: Visit midweek or during the off-season for fewer crowds and better rates.
How to Go: Located in Bloomington, near the Mall of America and MSP Airport, it is best accessed by car or hotel shuttle.
What to Do: Enjoy the massive indoor water park, magi-quest games, spa, dining options, and nightly storytime.
Free or Paid: Paid entry is included with overnight stays, with limited availability for day passes.
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Minneapolis
Overview: The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is a sprawling 1,200-acre horticultural garden and research center featuring formal gardens, natural landscapes, and plant collections.
History: Established by the University of Minnesota in 1958, it serves as a key center for plant conservation, education, and landscape design research.
Since When: It has been open to the public since its founding in 1958.
Review: Visitors praise the Arboretum for its tranquil walking trails, stunning seasonal blooms, and educational programs for all ages.
When to Go: Spring through fall is ideal to enjoy full floral displays, though winter offers peaceful snow-covered landscapes and light displays.
How to Go: Located in Chaska, a 30-minute drive southwest of Minneapolis, it’s accessible by car with on-site parking.
What to Do: Explore themed gardens, hike or snowshoe scenic trails, visit the visitor center and café, and attend seasonal events.
Free or Paid: Entry requires paid admission, with discounts for members, seniors, and children.
Walker Art Center, Minneapolis
Overview: The Walker Art Center is a premier contemporary art museum known for innovative visual, performing, and media arts exhibits.
History: Originally established in 1927 as a public art gallery, it evolved into one of the nation’s most important contemporary art institutions.
Since When: It became a modern art museum in its current form starting in 1940, with major expansions in the 2000s.
Review: It’s highly regarded for its cutting-edge exhibitions, immersive installations, and world-class curation.
When to Go: Weekdays or early weekends are ideal for avoiding crowds, and special exhibition openings offer added experiences.
How to Go: Centrally located in Minneapolis near the Sculpture Garden, it’s accessible by car, public transit, or walking.
What to Do: View rotating exhibitions, watch indie films, attend live performances, and explore the adjacent Sculpture Garden.
Free or Paid: General admission is free on the first Saturday of each month; otherwise, standard entrance fees apply.
Escape The Room Minneapolis, Minneapolis
Overview: Escape The Room Minneapolis is an interactive puzzle-based attraction where participants solve clues and complete missions within themed rooms.
History: Part of a national chain of escape rooms, the Minneapolis location brings local flair to immersive gaming experiences.
Since When: It opened in the early 2010s as escape rooms surged in popularity across the U.S.
Review: Players enjoy the well-designed, challenging rooms and friendly game masters, ideal for groups and team-building events.
When to Go: Best visited in the evenings or weekends for a fun group activity or unique date night.
How to Go: Conveniently located downtown, it is accessible by car or public transit with nearby parking options.
What to Do: Choose a themed room, solve puzzles as a team within a time limit, and try to escape before time runs out.
Free or Paid: Paid admission is required, with pricing based on group size and room type.
Minnehaha Falls, Minneapolis
Overview: Minnehaha Falls is a dramatic 53-foot waterfall located within a scenic urban park offering hiking trails, historic sites, and picnic areas.
History: A beloved natural landmark referenced in Longfellow’s 1855 poem “The Song of Hiawatha,” it has long been a Minneapolis icon.
Since When: It became part of the Minneapolis park system in the late 1800s.
Review: It’s consistently rated as one of the city’s most picturesque and accessible nature spots.
When to Go: Visit in spring or after heavy rains for the most dramatic waterfall flow, or in winter to see it frozen.
How to Go: Easily reachable by car, bike, or light rail, with convenient access to trails and parking.
What to Do: Hike along the creek, explore limestone bluffs, visit historic buildings, or relax at Sea Salt Eatery nearby.
Free or Paid: The park is free to enter; parking fees may apply.
Can Can Wonderland – St. Paul, Minneapolis
Overview: Can Can Wonderland is a quirky indoor entertainment venue blending artist-designed mini golf, arcade games, live music, and whimsical décor.
History: Opened in a repurposed industrial space in St. Paul, it celebrates local artists and DIY culture.
Since When: It has operated since 2017, quickly becoming a creative hotspot in the Twin Cities.
Review: It’s widely praised for its vibrant atmosphere, imaginative installations, and family-friendly fun with an adult twist.
When to Go: Evenings and weekends are most lively, with live performances and themed nights.
How to Go: Located in St. Paul’s Creative Enterprise Zone, it’s best accessed by car or rideshare.
What to Do: Play an 18-hole artist-designed mini golf course, enjoy vintage arcade games, sip craft cocktails, and catch live performances.
Free or Paid: Admission is free, but activities like mini golf and arcade games require paid tokens or wristbands.
Guthrie Theater, Minneapolis
Overview: The Guthrie Theater is a world-renowned performing arts venue known for its bold productions of classic and contemporary plays in an architecturally striking building.
History: Founded in 1963 by Sir Tyrone Guthrie as an alternative to commercial theater, it was later relocated to its current landmark facility on the Mississippi River in 2006.
Since When: The Guthrie has been producing acclaimed theater since 1963.
Review: Audiences consistently praise the theater for its high-quality performances, innovative stage design, and panoramic views from its public spaces.
When to Go: Evening performances and weekend matinees are ideal, with seasonal schedules offering both classic and new productions.
How to Go: Located in downtown Minneapolis, it’s accessible by public transit, car, or walking, with nearby parking ramps.
What to Do: Watch a play, explore the Endless Bridge, dine at the on-site restaurant, or attend talkbacks and backstage tours.
Free or Paid: Entry to the public spaces is free, but theater performances require paid tickets.
Breakout Games, Minneapolis
Overview: Breakout Games offers immersive escape room adventures where teams work together to solve puzzles and complete missions in themed environments.
History: Part of a nationwide franchise, the Minneapolis location brings a unique local flair to interactive storytelling experiences.
Since When: The Minneapolis branch has been operating since the mid-2010s as the escape room trend gained popularity.
Review: Visitors enjoy the engaging storylines, high production value, and friendly game facilitators, making it ideal for team-building and group outings.
When to Go: Evenings and weekends are the most popular times, especially for group activities or celebrations.
How to Go: Located in the metro area, it’s best accessed by car with ample parking nearby.
What to Do: Choose a themed room, solve puzzles within a 60-minute time limit, and try to escape before time runs out.
Free or Paid: Participation requires a paid ticket, with group pricing available.
Bde Maka Ska, Minneapolis
Overview: Bde Maka Ska is the largest lake in Minneapolis, offering scenic trails, water sports, and a cultural heritage site in a vibrant urban setting.
History: Formerly known as Lake Calhoun, it was renamed in 2018 to honor its original Dakota name, meaning “White Earth Lake.”
Since When: The area has been a recreational hub since the late 1800s, with indigenous roots going back centuries.
Review: Locals and tourists love it for its natural beauty, well-maintained paths, and opportunities for outdoor fitness and relaxation.
When to Go: Spring through fall is best for water activities and trail use, while winter draws cross-country skiers.
How to Go: Easily reached by bike, car, or public transit, with nearby parking and bike-sharing stations.
What to Do: Walk, run, or bike the lakeside trails, rent a kayak or paddleboard, enjoy the beach, or visit the historical interpretive signs.
Free or Paid: The lake is free to access, though rentals and parking may have associated fees.
Centennial Lakes Park, Minneapolis
Overview: Centennial Lakes Park is a beautifully landscaped urban park featuring a 10-acre lake, paved pathways, mini-golf, and seasonal ice skating.
History: Developed in the 1990s as part of Edina’s urban renewal initiative, it transformed office park land into a public green space.
Since When: It has been open to the public since 1991.
Review: It’s highly rated for its family-friendly environment, clean amenities, and variety of leisure activities.
When to Go: Visit in summer for boating and mini-golf or in winter for ice skating on the lake.
How to Go: Located in Edina, it is accessible by car and public transit, with ample parking available.
What to Do: Enjoy walking trails, paddle boat rentals, mini-golf, art installations, and seasonal events like farmers markets.
Free or Paid: The park is free to enter, with small fees for activities like mini-golf or boat rentals.
Game Show Studio Roseville, Minneapolis
Overview: Game Show Studio in Roseville offers interactive game show experiences where guests compete in live-action versions of classic TV-style games.
History: Designed to simulate real TV game show settings, it offers a unique entertainment format in the Twin Cities metro area.
Since When: It opened in the early 2020s, quickly gaining popularity for corporate events, parties, and family fun.
Review: Visitors rave about the energetic hosts, fun competition, and immersive experience that makes everyone feel like a contestant.
When to Go: Best visited on weekends or evenings for maximum group availability and energy.
How to Go: Located in Roseville, it’s just north of Minneapolis and accessible by car with nearby free parking.
What to Do: Participate in a game show-style challenge, cheer on teammates, and take home bragging rights.
Free or Paid: Requires paid tickets or booking in advance, often priced per team or per person.
Theodore Wirth Regional Park, Minneapolis
Overview: Theodore Wirth Regional Park is a massive urban park offering year-round outdoor activities like biking, skiing, golf, and hiking within the city limits.
History: Named after Theodore Wirth, Minneapolis’ famed park superintendent, the park was developed in the early 20th century as part of a broader vision for integrated green spaces.
Since When: Officially incorporated into the Minneapolis park system in 1889 and expanded significantly under Wirth’s leadership in the early 1900s.
Review: Visitors love its diverse terrain, seasonal beauty, and range of recreation from mountain biking to snow sports.
When to Go: Ideal in summer for hiking and mountain biking, and winter for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
How to Go: Located just west of downtown Minneapolis, it’s accessible by car, public transportation, and bike trails.
What to Do: Explore trails, play disc golf, swim at the beach, ski in winter, or visit the Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden.
Free or Paid: Entry is free, though some amenities like skiing or golf require a fee.
Meet Minneapolis Visitor Center, Minneapolis
Overview: The Meet Minneapolis Visitor Center is the official tourism hub offering maps, local advice, event details, and Minneapolis-themed merchandise.
History: Opened to support city tourism, the center was established to enhance visitor experience and connect tourists to Minneapolis highlights.
Since When: It has been operating since the early 2000s, with the current Nicollet location launched in 2016.
Review: Visitors appreciate the friendly staff, abundance of resources, and helpful recommendations for navigating the city.
When to Go: Visit any day during business hours for help planning your Minneapolis itinerary.
How to Go: Centrally located on Nicollet in downtown Minneapolis, it’s easy to access on foot, by bus, or light rail.
What to Do: Gather travel info, pick up brochures, talk to local experts, and shop for souvenirs.
Free or Paid: Free to enter and explore, with merchandise available for purchase.
Sandbox VR, Minneapolis
Overview: Sandbox VR is a cutting-edge virtual reality gaming center offering hyper-immersive multiplayer experiences in full-body VR simulations.
History: Launched globally in the late 2010s, the Minneapolis location brings this futuristic gaming experience to the Mall of America.
Since When: The Minneapolis branch has been operating since the early 2020s.
Review: Gamers rave about the lifelike simulations, collaborative gameplay, and advanced technology that feels like stepping into a movie.
When to Go: Best enjoyed during weekdays or evenings to avoid crowds and enjoy a full session.
How to Go: Located inside Mall of America, it’s easily accessible by car, light rail, or bus.
What to Do: Choose a VR world, gear up with motion capture equipment, and play through exciting missions with friends.
Free or Paid: Paid experience, typically charged per player per session.
Museum of Illusions – Mall of America, Minneapolis
Overview: The Museum of Illusions is a family-friendly attraction offering mind-bending visual exhibits, optical illusions, and interactive experiences.
History: Originating in Europe, the concept expanded globally, and the Minneapolis location opened to bring its educational and entertaining exhibits to the Midwest.
Since When: Opened at the Mall of America in 2022.
Review: Visitors love the interactive, photo-worthy exhibits that blend fun with science, appealing to both kids and adults.
When to Go: Weekdays are less crowded, making them ideal for a relaxed visit and photo opportunities.
How to Go: Located inside Mall of America, it’s reachable by car, Metro Transit Blue Line, or bus.
What to Do: Explore illusion rooms, take photos in Ames and Infinity rooms, and learn about perception and psychology.
Free or Paid: Paid entry with ticket prices varying by age and group.
Hyland Lake Park Reserve, Minneapolis
Overview: Hyland Lake Park Reserve is a sprawling nature park featuring trails, playgrounds, a ski area, and a scenic lake in nearby Bloomington.
History: Developed by the Three Rivers Park District, it was designed to provide outdoor recreation and environmental education in the western Twin Cities suburbs.
Since When: Established in the mid-20th century, with major expansions and the addition of the ski area in the 1970s.
Review: It’s beloved for its natural beauty, well-kept amenities, and diverse options for year-round outdoor fun.
When to Go: Spring through fall for hiking and boating, winter for skiing and snowboarding.
How to Go: Best reached by car; it’s located in Bloomington with clear signage and ample parking.
What to Do: Enjoy the Richardson Nature Center, explore trails, play at the large creative playground, or ski in winter.
Free or Paid: General park access is free; activities like skiing or equipment rental have fees.