1. See what's new at the Science Museum of Minnesota

The Science Museum's newest exhibit (on view only until November 15, 2026), Nature All Around Us, explores the world's interconnected natural engineering solutions: how trees cool our neighborhoods, how streams carry storm water away from our homes, and how spending time in nature keeps us healthy. Afterwards, don't miss dinosaurs and fossils, the sportsology exhibit and more.

Over at the Omnitheater, take a journey into space. Journey to Space takes you behind the scenes of the international effort to send astronauts to Mars within the next 20 years. Through dazzling, meticulously rendered visuals, discover the machines that will carry us there — Orion, Olympus, SLS rockets — the spacecraft, habitats, landers and vehicles that will make interplanetary travel and touchdown possible. Then take a virtual voyage all the way to the Red Planet itself.

2. Get spooked at the Minnesota Zoo's Jack-o-Lantern Spectacular

Bring the whole family for a walk through the enchanted forest and see over 5,000 brightly lit pumpkins, each one with a unique carving.

And if you're not into the scary stuff, go during the day! Walk around and observe all types of animals. From penguins to tigers to bears, there are plenty of different species to get familiar with.

3. Solve clues and puzzles at The Escape Room and Trapped Puzzle Rooms

Work together to find clues that will lead you to your great escape. Get away with a heist, plan your prison break or accept a mission to Mars. The Escape Room provides one-of-a-kind experiences for you and your group to work together.

At Trapped Puzzle Rooms, you can choose from all sorts of themed rooms like Eternity Battle, Dragon's Keep, Witchcraft Alley, and more.

4. Take a trip through time at the Mill City Museum

Learn the story of a mighty river, a young city and how one product—flour—fueled the growth of Minneapolis. Witness baking demonstrations, sample fresh bread, observe a model mill explosion, get an amazing view of St. Anthony Falls and the Stone Arch Bridge, experience the Flour Tower, and while you’re there be sure to watch “Minneapolis in 19 Minutes Flat!”

5. Get inspired at the Children's Theater Company

Children's Theater Company (totally not just for children!) will educate, challenge, and inspire you. See their latest production, Pinnochio. Using only the tools of their trade—paint brushes, scaffolding, wallpaper rolls—five theatre painters inventively stage a spontaneous retelling of Pinocchio’s quest to become a “real boy.” Discover the truth, amidst a few lies, in this music-filled play where Pinocchio learns empathy and accountability, things that truly bring a person to life.

6. Go on a hike fit for the whole family

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and get some fresh air on our family-friendly hiking trails! See 53-foot waterfall, Minnehaha Falls, stroll around a rose garden, get skyline views at Boom Island and more.

7. Do all things fall at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

Fall is the most popular time of year at the Arboretum. Bring the family and get immersed into the fall season. Witness the beauty of the red and gold leaves, pick up some apples from the AppleHouse, meet the Scarecrows in the Garden, or pack a picnic and enjoy lunch with a beautiful view. Reservations are required, so be sure to purchase your tickets ahead of time.

8. Get one of the best views in the city at the Foshay Observation Deck

Visit a Minneapolis landmark and learn the history of the Foshay Tower. Head on up to the 30th floor to....and then head further up to experience one of the most unique views in the city. With brilliant fall colors and a stunning picture of downtown, it's something you just can't pass up.

9. Go on a leaf peeping adventure

Walk, run, bike, or drive and marvel at some of the most beautiful fall foliage our city has to offer. From parks to waterfalls to lakes, check out where to find the best fall colors in Minneapolis.

10. Take a trip around the world at Midtown Global Market

Take your family and your taste buds on a trip around the world at the Midtown Global Market. Grab a kebab at Oasis Market and Deli, try Indian and Nepali dumplings at Momo Dosa, indulge in enchiladas from Salsa A La Salsa or enjoy Pad Thai and bubble tea at Sabbai. Choose from over 40 different restaurants and groceries alongside jewelry and fashion from countries all over the world.

11. Get ready to play at the Minnesota Children's Museum

"Play is learning" according to the Minnesota Children's Museum. One of Fodor's Top 10 Best Children's Museums, it's the perfect place to spend the day with your family. Experience the power of play with three floors of fun!

12. Have a day of adventure at Valleyfair Amusement Park

The Minneapolis area’s go-to place for FUN! Featuring both indoor and outdoor family-friendly attractions, Valleyfair is the perfect place for you to play and celebrate! Enjoy the fall spooky season at Tricks and Treats, a family-friendly daytime Halloween event full of mischievous tricks, tasty treats, and spook-tacular entertainment for all ages. This kid-friendly celebration takes place before the sun sets and the scares set up — it’s all fun, no fear during the daytime at Valleyfair.

13. Stroll through the Sculpture Garden or peruse the galleries at Walker Art Center

Admission to the Sculpture Garden is free! Walk the paths and enjoy a variety of outdoor sculptures, each with its own story. Or, head inside and explore the galleries of the Walker Art Center. Take advantage of free admission on Thursday nights. Be sure to get a timed ticket online prior to visiting.

14. Fly, spin, and drop at Nickelodeon Universe at the Mall of America

Get your adrenaline running on the thrilling rides at Nickelodeon Universe in the Mall of America. You can also meet your favorite Nickelodeon characters! While you’re at the Mall, don’t miss the SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium. Get a closer look at sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, jelly fish, seahorses and more. Get your hands dirty at the touch pools and walk through a 300-foot long underwater tunnel.

15. Learn about the history of electronic communication at the Pavec Museum

Ever wonder how things like radios, televisions and telephones came to be? Visit the Pavec Museum in St. Louis Park to learn about the development of technology we rely on each day. Explore over 12,000 square feet of antique radios, televisions and broadcast equipment.