Things To Do
Arboretum
Our favorite stop for a family event. The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in nearby Chaska is 1,200 acres of gardens, trails, and seasonal beauty that's hard to beat in mid-September. A great spot for families to wander at their own pace — kids love the open space, and the fall color starting to show will make for some incredible photos.
Minnehaha Falls
A stunning 53-foot waterfall right in the heart of Minneapolis — free, easy, and beautiful for the whole family. The trails along the creek gorge are a perfect way to stretch your legs and let the kids run around after a long travel day.
Excelsior Commons
The charming lakeside town of Excelsior is just a short drive away and perfect for a leisurely morning or afternoon — grab a coffee or a pastry from one of the local shops, stroll the commons along Lake Minnetonka, and let the kids burn some energy at the playground. It's the kind of relaxed, small-town vibe that makes for a great way to ease into wedding weekend.
Mall of America
No trip to the Twin Cities is complete without a stop at the Mall of America — the largest mall in the country and a legitimate tourist destination in its own right, with hundreds of shops, restaurants, an indoor theme park, and an aquarium all under one roof. Whether you're shopping, riding roller coasters, or just taking it all in, it's a guaranteed hit for kids and adults alike.
