Minneapolis, Minnesota, is the ideal destination for a family vacation. The city offers plenty to see and do without the crowds and high prices of some of America’s larger city centers. Keep the following tips in mind when planning a kid-friendly Minneapolis getaway.
Find a Kid-Friendly Minneapolis Hotel
Your hotel will be your home away from home while you’re away. Just like home, the hotel you choose should have plenty of room for your kids.
Your kids will never be bored at the Loews Minneapolis Hotel, which offers younger guests the use of toys, games, and free wireless internet. The Hilton Garden Inn Minneapolis Downtown hotel and Hotel Ivy Minneapolis both have indoor swimming pools. Parents of fussy eaters will appreciate the kids’ menus at The Westin Minneapolis and The Marquette Hotel. Consider what features matter to you and your children when you’re thinking about the accommodations offered at Minneapolis hotels.
Look for Free Attractions and Events
Sightseeing can get expensive when you’ve got kids in tow. Thankfully, Minneapolis has plenty of free attractions to keep your family amused. Kids will love browsing the children’s exhibit and riding the old-fashioned elevator at the family-friendly Minneapolis Institute of Art. If you’re visiting during the summer, you can catch free family concerts and children’s movies in the local parks. Also look for free events such as the Holidazzle parade and Juneteenth Minnesota.
Explore Parks in Minneapolis
Family time in Minneapolis wouldn’t be complete without visiting the parks. These award-winning green spaces will give kids plenty of room to play. Don’t be surprised if they’re so worn out that they’ll turn in early so that you can enjoy some couple time.
Young children shouldn’t miss Hyland Lake Park Reserve and its massive playground dubbed Chutes and Ladders. They’ll love the long slides and climbing area. The reserve’s splash pad is also a hit during the summer months, so be sure to pack their swimming gear.
Older children may prefer hanging out at Minnehaha Park. On-site bike rentals allow them to easily explore all this beautiful park offers.
Find Family-Friendly Restaurants for Less Mealtime Stress
Remember the days before you had children when eating out was a pleasant experience? Sadly, for many parents, dining out means arguments over meals, bad behavior, and a lot of stress. Thankfully, your meals don’t have to be so difficult when you’re in Minneapolis. The city has many family-friendly restaurants your kids will love.
Mexican cuisine can be a little scary for kids, but they needn’t fret at Salsa A La Salsa. This restaurant has a special children’s menu with dishes that go easy on the spice and come with cookies. Salsa A La Salsa also has a play area to amuse them while you’re lingering over the pineapple tamale dessert.
You’ll find two big reasons to check out D’Amico & Sons. First, kids eat free on Sundays, so you needn’t stress if they only pick at their plates. Second, the Italian restaurant also acknowledges the work parents do each day with bottomless glasses of Chianti and pinot grigio. Cheers to that!
With some careful planning, Minneapolis offers the type of vacation destination you and your kids can enjoy together.