Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in MN

Cool playgrounds

Playgrounds that actually feel designed for the kids rather than just a patch of grass with a rusted slide.

Based on 678 Opinions
+675
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Shoreview Commons Park image 1
Shoreview Commons Park image 2
Shoreview Commons Park image 3
View all

Spacious park with state-of-the-art playgrounds featuring rubber artificial turf and a wide variety of swings, slides, and climbing structures. Lively and busy atmosphere with areas for all ages including a skate park and nature walk around a pond. Multiple levels and well-designed layout create an engaging outdoor space.

Free access welcomes families to a spacious playground with three distinct areas. Features include rock climbing, swings, jungle gyms, and skateboarding zones designed for kids of all sizes.

Multiple playgrounds offer very large and cool equipment to play on. The skatepark and outdoor concert area add to the cool activities available throughout the park.

People are saying

"This park is super fun for kids of all ages."

"I found the playground to be amazing with lots of room to run."

"I found the playgrounds and equipment here to be really cool."

Good to know

1

The playground is free to use.

2

The playground has rubber flooring for safety.

3

Restroom facilities are limited and may be unclean.

02
Lava Island image 1
Indoor playground

Indoor playground offers spacious layout with themed party rooms and large play structures. Energy is exciting and lively, filled with many activities for kids to run, jump, and play. Noise level can be high, but space remains open enough to avoid feeling crowded.

Huge, colorful play structures offer climbing, sliding, and jumping fun for hours. A spacious toddler area and foam pit, volcano slide, and trampolines keep kids of all ages entertained.

Endless activities include slides, a volcano with a jumpy thing, climbing, and a trampoline park. Party rooms glow in the dark, look very cool, and come with good food.

People are saying

"The fun activities here let kids burn lots of energy."

"This playground has tons of space for kids to run and stay entertained."

"The party rooms here are super cool and themed."

Good to know

1

Lava Island does not allow outside food, so plan accordingly.

2

No gluten-free food options are available on the menu.

3

The facility is very clean and well-maintained for kids.

03
Woodhaven Park image 1

Spacious park offers age-designated play areas with a mix of traditional and modern equipment like ziplines, ropes courses, and unique basketball hoops. The atmosphere is lively and busy, attracting families with children of all ages. Facilities include ample parking, picnic tables, and accessible restrooms, making it suitable for extended visits.

Multiple playgrounds suit toddlers through middle school with varied climbing options and multiple slides. Accessibility includes a handicap-accessible bathroom and paths for wheelchairs or walkers.

Unique basketball area features cool backboards designed for trick shots. Kids find the park really fun and engaging.

People are saying

"This playground has awesome, modern equipment for all ages."

"This playground has awesome, modern equipment with ziplines and a unique basketball game."

"It's a cool park with lots of activities for kids."

Good to know

1

The park has designated play areas for different age groups.

2

There is ample parking available at the park.

3

Restrooms are clean and include changing tables.

04
Good Times Park image 1
Indoor playground

Indoor playground offers large open area with multiple play structures, including a ninja warrior course and bouncy pillow. Atmosphere is energetic and welcoming, filled with children and parents engaging actively. Separate rooms for quiet time and snacks provide balance to the lively environment.

An indoor playground with a great open concept and a separate play area for kids under 2. The space stays cleaner than many other indoor playgrounds.

Open concept playground stands out with its great design. The park offers a cool vibe for both kids and adults.

People are saying

"It's a really clean and spacious place for kids."

"I found the indoor playground to be nice and clean."

"It's a cool place with lots of different activities for kids."

Good to know

1

The park is clean and kid-friendly, making it a safe place for children.

2

There are plenty of activities to keep kids entertained for hours.

3

Parents can bring food and snacks to enjoy in the eating area.

05
Westwood Hills Nature Center image 1

Nature preserve offers quiet nature vibes with pine-covered trails and floating boardwalks around a lake. Indoor spaces include live animal exhibits and rooms for events, while outdoor areas feature a playground and wildlife viewing. The setting feels like a peaceful sanctuary despite nearby urban noise.

A modern playground near the Nature Center stays busy with kids. The outdoor play area suits small children well and keeps them entertained during events.

Indoor nature center offers engaging exhibits for all ages. Trails include rock walking spots that add an interesting twist to the hike.

People are saying

"It's a fun, kid-friendly spot with a great playground."

"The playground here is fun and suitable for children."

"The trails are really cool and interesting."

Good to know

1

Entry to the nature center is free for all visitors.

2

Pets are not allowed on the premises or trails.

3

The center offers birthday party packages for children.

06
Richardson Nature Center image 1

Nature center offers live animal exhibits including birds and reptiles, alongside interactive stations like puppet shows and microscopes. Large windows and a rocking chair room provide wildlife viewing opportunities in a peaceful, family-friendly setting with well-maintained walking trails.

A short walk from the building leads to a kidโ€™s nature play area filled with logs and sticks to play with and rearrange. An indoor play area also offers space for active fun.

Indoor exhibits and live animals create a cool atmosphere. The space offers a compact nature experience that fits well into a short visit.

People are saying

"It's a great Kid Friendly place with an indoor play area."

"It's an awesome nature center with a small children's area."

"It's a cool place to spend an hour or a few."

Good to know

1

The activity of visiting the nature center is free.

2

The trails are well maintained and easy to walk.

3

The center has live animal exhibits inside.

07
Wargo Nature Center image 1
Wildlife park

Wildlife park offers quiet, scenic trails with interactive indoor exhibits and a modern playground designed for young children. The area includes animal statues and a resident owl, creating an educational and engaging environment. Trails circle diverse habitats, providing space for exploration and nature observation.

Outdoor play area features a modern, clean playground suitable for toddlers and preschoolers. Animal statues and a storybook trail add interactive fun alongside nature play and hiking trails.

Wargo Nature Center offers a unique experience with its engaging exhibits. Statues scattered around the park add a cool artistic touch, and the visitor center features fun interactive activities.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park with lots of trails to explore."

"The outdoor playground is fun, modern, and safe for kids."

"The playground here is fun, clean, modern, and safe for kids."

Good to know

1

Wargo Nature Center is free to visit, making it accessible for everyone.

2

The center has a playground and interactive exhibits suitable for toddlers.

3

Parking can be challenging during events, so arrive early.

08
Pump It Up Eden Prairie Kids Birthdays and More image 1

Facility includes multiple bounce rooms and inflatable thrones for birthday celebrations. Atmosphere feels organized and well supervised, designed to keep kids entertained while making parties easy for adults. Energy is lively with interactive games and smooth transitions between play areas.

Three areas offer varied fun: one with a bounce house and slide, another with a bounce basketball pit and air hockey table, and a party zone with inflatable thrones. Activities include bouncing, climbing, sliding, and navigating obstacles.

Inflatable chairs add a fun touch for kids. The vibe feels family-friendly and everyone enjoys the unique setup.

People are saying

"They made organizing the party so easy and handled all the details."

"This playground is a perfect place for kids' parties with lots of fun things to do."

"It's a cool place for kids' parties with lots of fun things to do."

Good to know

1

The birthday party package includes cake, presents, and pizza service.

2

Parties are private, allowing kids to stay together in one area.

3

A complimentary photo is sent to all parents after the event.

09
Harmon Park image 1

Park offers splash pad and playground side by side, creating a lively spot for children of all ages. Lighted ball fields and picnic areas with charcoal grills add to the active, family-friendly atmosphere. Clean, spacious grounds with shaded seating invite relaxation while kids play.

A splash pad sits right next to a playground with plenty of equipment for both bigger and smaller kids. Wood chips cover the playground ground, which stick after playing in the water.

Cool water sprays from the fountains as expected. The water splash pad adds a refreshing touch. Harmon Park serves as a cool spot for birthday parties.

People are saying

"The splash pad and playground are great for kids."

"The playground and splash pad are right next to each other."

"It's a cool little spot for a birthday party."

Good to know

1

The splash pad stays open until 8:00 pm during summer.

2

The bathrooms are open, clean, and stocked.

3

There is plenty of parking available at Harmon Park.

10
Eastman Nature Center image 1

Large building with glass viewing areas showcases live animals and educational displays. Trails offer easy hiking through peaceful forest scenery with floating boardwalks and a nearby pond. Outdoor spaces include nature play areas and activities suitable for all ages.

A large play area features a nature play area with a mud kitchen that encourages exploration. An educational play area adds learning to the fun, alongside activities like disk golf and swimming.

Outdoor play space offers a fun spot for kids. Free programs add to the engaging experience.

People are saying

"It's so Kid Friendly with educational exhibits and fun outdoor activities."

"The nature playground has a fun mud kitchen and animal area."

"It's a cool facility with free programs and interesting displays."

Good to know

1

The visit is free, making it accessible for families.

2

Parking could be tight during peak weekend times.

3

The visitor center offers activities and programming for both kids and adults.

11
Centennial Park image 1

Spacious park with walking trails, multiple playgrounds, and sports fields offers a peaceful atmosphere despite weekend crowds. Amenities include fountains, pavilions with BBQ grills, and an amphitheater, attracting families and active visitors. The park feels safe and provides a variety of activities for all ages.

Multiple playgrounds suit all ages with quality play areas and sports fields nearby. One playground sits far enough off the beaten path to avoid crowds, surrounded by grass.

A cool fountain feature stands out in the park. The overall vibe feels pretty cool and relaxed.

People are saying

"It's really Kid Friendly with a great play area."

"I found this park to be pretty cool, with playgrounds for all ages."

"I found multiple playgrounds suitable for all ages."

Good to know

1

The park has multiple playgrounds suitable for all ages.

2

There are trails for walking and biking throughout the park.

3

The park features pavilions and gazebos with BBQ grills for events.

12
Bossen Field Park image 1

Large park dominated by baseball diamonds and softball fields with lights offers plenty of space for sports and activities. Playground areas feature unique structures and a kiddie wading pool, attracting families and children. Open spaces include seating and walking areas, with planes flying overhead adding to the atmosphere.

Unique structures and a playground set resembling a ninja warrior course stand out here. Multiple areas suit different ages, with a kiddie wading pool and plenty of space to run and play.

A really cool park for kids features a small wading pool and a relaxed vibe. Bossen Field Park feels chill and fun.

People are saying

"It's a big park with lots of baseball and softball fields."

"The playground here has unique structures and lots of space."

"It's a really cool park with a small wading pool."

Good to know

1

The park has plenty of space for activities and is dog friendly.

2

There are lots of free parking spaces and accessibility for handicapped and families with strollers.

3

The only bathroom facilities are a few porta potties and one actual bathroom across the whole park.

13
Mississippi Gateway Regional Park image 1

Park offers great views of river and dam alongside lush scenery and peaceful atmosphere. Multiple playgrounds and treetop boardwalks provide engaging spaces for children. Trails and picnic areas support varied outdoor activities in a well-designed, nature-focused setting.

Multiple playgrounds feature nature-inspired equipment for kids of all ages. A splash pad and treetop boardwalk add variety and fun to the play areas.

Treetop trail offers a unique walk high above the ground. Crossing the dam feels cool with rushing water on one side and a calm surface on the other. Fog adds a mysterious vibe to the whole park.

People are saying

"The treetop trail offers stunning views and is awesome for an evening walk."

"I loved the treetop trail, it was awesome and beautiful."

"The treetop trail here is really cool."

Good to know

1

Parents should supervise children at the playground due to uneven natural stone stairs.

2

Kayak rentals are available for visitors looking to explore the water.

3

The visitor center opens at noon, so plan your visit accordingly.

14
Western Sculpture Park image 1

Small park features large geometric sculptures that move with the wind and invite tactile interaction. Quiet and peaceful atmosphere suits those seeking calm, with a unique playground offering imaginative climbing and spinning activities for kids. Apartments border the area, requiring visitors to be considerate of the community.

A very cool playground offers practical climbing and spinning features alongside an imaginative play space. Apartments border the area, so visitors stay mindful of the community.

A very cool playground offers unique features for kids. The Western Sculpture Park showcases geometric, modern sculptures with impressive welding and stone work.

People are saying

"I saw some cool, geometric sculptures at the playground."

"It's a small park with surprisingly massive sculptures."

"The artworks here are really cool, with some responding to the wind."

Good to know

1

The park features large, geometric sculptures that encourage tactile interaction.

2

Visitors should be respectful of the nearby apartments and community.

3

The park is small and can be easily overlooked, making it a hidden gem.

15
Como Regional Park image 1

Spacious park with beautiful conservatory and Japanese garden offers a peaceful atmosphere and live music under glass. Zoo and outdoor pavilion add variety, while picnic areas support relaxed visits. Free access invites casual exploration despite limited parking.

Playgrounds include a renovated playground up the hill and equipment that helps tire kids out. The area features walking paths, green spaces, and a kids entertainment park with rides.

Admission is free and visitors can bring their own food and drinks, which is pretty cool. The arboretum has unique trees and plants, including the Corpse Flower and a bonsai room. Shows and animals add to the cool experiences.

People are saying

"I loved Como Regional Park's scenic beauty and all the activities."

"The zoo is free, so I highly recommend donating to support it."

"I appreciated the playground and the beautiful, well-maintained grounds."

Good to know

1

Como Regional Park is free to access, but donations are appreciated.

2

Parking can be very difficult to find, especially during events.

3

The park features a small zoo that is also free to visit.

16
Nickelodeon Universe image 1

Indoor theme park with a giant glass roof creates an outdoor atmosphere protected from weather. Bright colors and Nickelodeon character theming fill the space, making it imaginative and lively for kids. Multiple thrilling roller coasters and safe play areas keep energy high and families engaged.

A Paw Patrol-themed soft play area offers a safe spot for toddlers to play. Guardians can watch kids easily without needing security badges. A separate Lego play area adds variety for older children.

Indoor rides offer a very cool experience for kids and ride fans. The theme park includes cool shops and photo-worthy set pieces for Nickelodeon fans.

People are saying

"This Mall has a super fun indoor amusement park with exciting rides."

"It's a really cool place for kids and ride enthusiasts."

"The Paw Patrol playground was my 2 year old's favorite part."

Good to know

1

Tickets are $52 for a wristband to ride all attractions.

2

Toddler Tuesday offers four hours of access for $15, with one adult free.

3

The park hosts seasonal events throughout the year.

17
The Fun Lab image 1
Amusement center

Small amusement center with a science theme and unique games like laser tag, VR, and bumper cars. Bright lighting creates a safe, lively atmosphere filled with kids and families enjoying various activities. Layout feels compact but well-organized, supporting fun for all ages.

An indoor playground features several slides and a foam ball area. A big playground in the middle suits toddlers, including 1-year-olds. A small area for kids under 5 offers a few balls and slides.

Virtual reality experiences stand out with a cool edge. The dark ride and various games offer a good variety of options that appeal to adults.

People are saying

"It's a fun and entertaining place for kids, making parties easy to plan."

"The VR games and dark ride here are super cool."

"The indoor playground has slides and a foam ball area."

Good to know

1

The Fun Lab has four party rooms available for events.

2

Adult night ends at 10:00 PM, so plan accordingly.

3

The Fun Lab is suitable for kids aged 4-10, with limited activities for younger children.

18
Kids Empire Bloomington image 1
Indoor playground

Indoor playground features large colorful play structures with separate zones for toddlers and older kids. Atmosphere stays bright and clean with a dragon-themed design and areas for parents to watch comfortably. Music varies in volume, and activities include go-karts, ball pits, and glow dance rooms.

Indoor playground offers big slides, play motorcycles, and a ball pit that keep kids active and entertained. Equipment is clean, safe, and arranged with engaging activities for children.

A cool jungle gym stands out with soccer and big Legos. The whole setup feels super cool and fun for kids.

People are saying

"It's a great place for kids; they had a blast!"

"The staff at this playground are super friendly and helpful."

"It's cool how many activities there are to do here."

Good to know

1

Admission costs $20 per child for the entire day.

2

Two adults can enter for free with the purchase of a $25 all-day pass for a child.

3

You can't bring food into the facility and can only buy it there.

19
Crayola Experience Mall of America image 1

Large indoor space features colorful walls and multiple playgrounds for different age groups. Atmosphere feels noisy and energetic, with kids engaging in crafts and interactive activities. Bright store area contrasts with dim, cave-like experience zones, offering a mix of creative stations and play areas.

Indoor play areas include a toddler zone with a life-size Lite-Brite and a big kid playground with climbing, jumping, and slides. Spaces let kids run, explore, and use art stations with melting crayons and video features.

Sizable play areas and cool wax molding stations stand out. The spot offers really cool candy and sand creations along with virtual elements and hidden gems throughout.

People are saying

"It's so kid friendly with tons of activities to keep them busy."

"The playground has tons of activities to keep kids busy for hours."

"I thought the crafts and crayon activities were really cool."

Good to know

1

Admission is $24.99 for the entire experience.

2

The cafe at the Crayola Experience has been closed since before Covid.

3

Kids aged 10 and under will enjoy the Crayola Experience the most.

20
Minnehaha Falls image 1
Tourist attraction

Waterfall and surrounding trails create a scenic setting with breathtaking views. Large open grounds include an outdoor theatre and public food court, supporting a relaxed, peaceful atmosphere. Families enjoy play areas and pedal carts, while music and art add cultural touches.

A decent-sized kids playground features swings, monkey bars, slides, and a teeter-totter on a sand base for barefoot play. Nearby areas offer picnic spots, hiking trails to the waterfall, and surrey rentals.

Waterfalls stand out as very cool with flowing water that adds to the vibe. The spot offers a cool place for a hike and a scenic stop that feels refreshing and interesting.

People are saying

"I found the park beautiful with its wonderful waterfall."

"The waterfalls here are really cool."

"The waterfall here is breathtaking and beautiful."

Good to know

1

Entry to Minnehaha Falls is free for all visitors.

2

Parking costs $1.30 per hour and requires license plate recognition.

3

The park occasionally hosts festivals and events, so check the calendar.

21
MiniSota Play Cafe image 1
Children's cafe

Minnesota-themed mini-city with themed play areas and creative play options offers a large, open layout designed for kids of all ages. Atmosphere stays relaxed yet lively, with occasional chaos when many big kids gather. A quiet sensory room and dedicated infant zone provide calm spaces amid active play.

Play areas change regularly to keep things fresh and engaging. Staff clean and disinfect toys and surfaces frequently, keeping the space very clean. The setup encourages imaginative play with little store fronts and varied toys.

Lots of super cool play areas make it a very cool spot for kids. The space feels lively and fun with its unique play setups.

People are saying

"This play cafe is perfect for little kids with lots of areas to explore."

"The Playground's items were mostly old food boxes and clothing."

"This place is so cool with tons of different play areas for kids."

Good to know

1

Grippy socks are required to enter the play area.

2

An adult fee is charged in addition to the children's price.

3

The cafe does not allow outside food or drinks, except water.

22
Maplewood Mall image 1
Shopping mall

Gigantic split-level bookstore anchors wide walkways and well-lit corridors. Play areas include a double-decker carousel and a sustainable petting zoo, creating a family-friendly vibe. Atmosphere mixes warm, inviting decor with a quiet, somewhat dated feel.

Several free play areas exist for kids, including a dedicated playground. These spaces suit toddlers and older children well.

Many cool shops and small owned businesses fill the mall, offering a variety of niche stores to explore. Events like bounce houses and pop-ups add to the lively atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the Mall to be a fun place with activities for kids."

"The food court has yummy, multicultural food options."

"It's a nice playground with lots of fun activities for kids."

Good to know

1

Events at Maplewood Mall often include free food and activities for visitors.

2

Celebrity appearances and vendor shows happen nearly every weekend.

3

Shows typically start at 7 PM and end by 11 PM.

23
Phalen Regional Park image 1

Traditional Chinese pavilion and arch add an oriental flair to the spacious park with lakeside views. The atmosphere stays peaceful and family-friendly, with walking and biking trails, a beach, and water activities. Sculptures and bridges along paths create an interesting environment for visitors.

Multiple playgrounds sit along the walking paths near a lake and picnic areas. The playgrounds look well maintained and offer fun spaces for children.

Walking trails offer great spots to relax by the water. Water features and a splash pad add cool interactive elements throughout the park.

People are saying

"I loved walking and biking the scenic paths around the lake at this park."

"I loved walking my dog on the varied paths here."

"I found the fenced-in playgrounds fun for children."

Good to know

1

Parking is available around the lake, especially on the western shore.

2

The beach area is great for families and swimming.

3

Dogs are welcome at the park, but be mindful of leash laws.

24
Slick City Action Park image 1

Huge indoor space filled with multiple slides, basketball trampoline court, and arcade games creates a lively atmosphere. Noise level is very loud with crowds of energetic kids running and playing. Facilities include areas for all ages, with bounce zones and play areas for younger children.

Slides offer a variety of experiences, from thrilling to more gentle options. Staff know the layout well, including the party room and play areas. Children aged 5 and under can ride the big slides but pay the same rate.

Slides and the overall concept stand out as cool and unique features. The park offers a fun environment for kids.

People are saying

"This place is so kid friendly; my kids had a blast!"

"It's a great playground for kids to burn energy."

"It's a cool place with tons of attractions to keep kids entertained."

Good to know

1

Slick City Action Park offers adult nights for a more relaxed experience.

2

Expect a $40 charge per person for two hours of access.

3

The park has limited food options, so plan accordingly.

25
Ice Castles image 1
Tourist attraction

Hand-crafted ice architecture forms towering walls and spires glowing with colorful lights that create a magical, ethereal atmosphere. Interactive features like ice slides, mazes, and fire pits offer both fun and warmth amid the frozen landscape. The space feels like exploring a crystal palace, attracting families and groups seeking a unique winter experience.

Slides are very fast and enjoyable for all ages. Play areas include polished ice slides, winding crawl tunnels, and castles that combine fun with detailed design.

Ice Castles offer a very cool experience with lights glowing behind the ice, creating a unique and fun atmosphere for all ages.

People are saying

"The ice castles were a stunning, handcrafted winter wonderland."

"The ice castle is a beautiful, breathtaking winter wonderland."

"The lights at night looked really cool."

Good to know

1

The entrance fee for three people is $116.

2

Free parking is available on-site.

3

Visitors must buy tickets ahead of time.

Discover more

Minnesota

Area guide
Loading Map...