Things To Do
Chain of Lakes
Located in Minneapolis, the Chain of Lakes is comprised of Lake of the Isles, Bde Maka Ska, Lake Harriet, Brownie Lake, and Cedar Lake. Here are some recommendations! Lake Bde Maka Ska: beaches, watersport rentals (can go through waterways that connect to Lake of the Isles), playground, walking path Lake Harriet: beaches, playground, walking path, and music & movies in the park (google for updated 2025 schedule - this is a great option for families!)
Minnehaha Falls Regional Park
A great & easy spot to bring the kiddos! Along with viewing the waterfalls, there is a natural wading pool, a splash pad, a playground and bike rentals. Admission: FREE
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
Explore over 60 sculptures along 11 acres in the heart of Minneapolis! Admission: FREE Tickets for the Walker Art Center gallery are $18 for adults and free for children <12 y/o.
Excelsior
Emily grew up going to Excelsior with family and friends to swim at the beach, walk around the lake, shop, eat at Maynard's (waffle fries and seasoned sour cream is a must) and most importantly get ice-cream from Lick's Unlimited! :)
Paisley Park (Prince)
Paisley Park was Prince's home and studio, and is now a museum! The museum tour takes you through Prince's living quarters, multiple recording studios, a live music venue and more. Slightly pricey, but worth the money if you're a Prince fan! Fun fact: It was common to see Prince riding his bike around Chanhassen, and he was an avid Target shopper - Emily once checked him out during her short-lived high-school Target days. Tickets: $75
St. Paul Saints Game
Enjoy a minor league baseball game at a fun outdoor stadium in St. Paul! Lawn seats were our go-to. We loved going to Red Cow for our favorite burgers before/after games.
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
"Founded in 1958, The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is a 1,200-acre public garden in Chaska, Minnesota, that attracts over 600,000 visitors per year. Best known for its beautiful display gardens, nationally recognized tree collections, protected natural areas and research activity, the Arboretum is easy to explore via paved paths, such Three-Mile Walk and Three-Mile Drive, which are open year-round. Many miles of wooded trails, stone pathways and routes for cross-country skiers and snowshoers provide access to the healing power of nature in all seasons." Ages <15: free Ages 16+: $20
Mall of America
If you're brave enough to face the 5.6 million square feet, the Mall of America is a go-to tourist location with over 500 stores, an amusement park, aquarium, escape rooms and more.
Smith Coffee & Cafe
A cute coffee shop that is close to the venue and has great coffee and food!
Matt's Bar and Grill
Home of the original Juicy Lucy!