27 Free & Budget-Friendly Family Activities in Minneapolis
Looking for free things to do in Minneapolis with kids? From artsy spots like Mia and the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden to scenic strolls along the Stone Arch Bridge and hidden playground gems, here are 27 unforgettable free and budget friendly experiences across the city that spark creativity, exploration, and connection.
1. Get lost in exhibits at the Walker Art Center on First Free Saturdays and every Thursday night.
2. Take a walk through the Sculpture Garden at the Walker Art Center and take your photo with the iconic Spoonbridge & Cherry.
3. Walk across the Stone Arch Bridge and take a look at the Mississippi River.
4. Explore Minnesota’s largest art educator, the Minneapolis Institute of Art, which is free and open to the public daily.
5. Take a walk around the Mall of America, the largest indoor shopping center in the nation.
6. Stroll or bike through the Mill District, the historic birthplace to Minneapolis. Be sure to stop in the free Mill City Museum to learn more about the city's history as the flour capitol of the world.
7. Read your way through the Minneapolis Central Library, located downtown between Hennepin Avenue and Nicollet at Third Street. Check out Children’s section for an interactive play and family story time events.
8. Stroll the Mill City Farmer’s Market and take in free entertainment and fun shopping on the riverfront on Saturday mornings.
9. Hike near Minnehaha Falls and Creek and stop to see the Song of Hiawatha statue.
10. For a small fee, visit the Foshay Observation Deck and Museum and get the only outdoor skyscraper view of the city of Minneapolis.
11. Shop from local and diverse businesses and have an inexpensive lunch at the Midtown Global Market.
12. Visit Como Zoo and Conservatory in Saint Paul, a free zoo and historic indoor gardens with a Japanese garden and an inexpensive Carousel ride.
13. Bike or walk along the Midtown Greenway Regional Trail, a 5.5-mile long former railroad corridor that winds throughout the city.
14. Grab takeout and have a picnic at one of our many parks.
15. Learn about innovations in science, technology, and the humanities at the Bakken Museum.
16. Grab a sweet treat from Mel-O-Glaze Bakery and then walk around Lake Nokomis.
17. Take a walk through Boom Island Park and enjoy beautiful views of the downtown skyline.
18. Stroll through the gorgeous Lyndale Rose Gardens in the Kingfield neighborhood and Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary at Theodore Wirth Regional Park.
19. Head to one of our family and pet friendly breweries and enjoy craft beer, food, and nonalcoholic beverages.
20. Go for a swim at one of our many beaches, wading pools, or splash pads.
21. Visit the Weisman Art Museum and get a tour. Both admission and weekly tours are completely free!
22. Run, walk, bike or people watch at Bde Maka Ska.
23. Check out the American Swedish Institute - one of the most kid friendly museums in the city. Between the availability of amenities for families, the outdoor play area, and the wide variety of family friendly events, this museum is a must-visit for families in Minneapolis.
24. Explore at the Guthrie Theater and take a look at the Mississippi River and St. Anthony Falls from the Endless Bridge, or take family snapshots in the iconic Amber Room.
25. Enjoy a movie or concert in the park. During the warmer months, the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board hosts more than 60 movies in parks throughout the city and countless concerts - all free!
26. Attend a festival. Minneapolis festivals offer low-cost admission and free entertainment, making them an easy way for families to enjoy music, food, and culture together.
27. Catching a Twins game at Target Field is a budget-friendly family outing in Minneapolis, with affordable tickets, family promotions, and plenty of fun built right into the ballpark experience.