Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Minnesota

Dog-friendly and kid-friendly spots

You need a destination that welcomes your dog and your children with the same level of ease.

Based on 973 Opinions
+970
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Red's Chop Shop image 1
Red's Chop Shop image 2
Red's Chop Shop image 3
View all
Barber shop

Barbershop combines old school vibe with modern, hip atmosphere featuring bikes and choppers on the walls. It maintains a chill, welcoming energy with good music and a friendly shop dog present. The space feels like a place where men can feel confident and connected.

A friendly shop dog named Chopper greets visitors. Chopper acts like a security guard and adds a warm, welcoming touch.

Kids feel welcome with friendly barbers who keep them engaged and comfortable. The shop features a motorcycle display and a dog mascot that kids enjoy, making haircuts fun and memorable.

People are saying

"This place is so Kid Friendly; the barbers are patient and kind."

"You'll love meeting Chopper, the friendly shop mascot dog."

"I got an amazing old school straight edge shave here."

Good to know

1

Appointments are necessary due to high demand for services.

2

Red's Chop Shop hosts community events and fundraisers regularly.

3

Walk-ins are accommodated, but expect potential wait times.

02
Thompson County Park image 1

Country park offers a large modern playground with musical elements and a fenced, carpeted play area for safer children's play. A beautiful lake sits at the center, surrounded by trees and benches, creating a peaceful, quiet atmosphere ideal for relaxation and nature watching.

Open trails offer plenty of room for walking dogs and getting steps in. Stations with doggy bags help keep the area clean and welcoming for pets.

A large playground with a fenced-in area and rubberized ground keeps kids safe and minimizes injuries. Several paths for walking or biking and a beach add to the kid-friendly options.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park with a nice lake for walking."

"It's a great spot for kids, with a large, modern playground."

"It's a great place to walk your dog on the trails."

Good to know

1

There is a ChargePoint EV charger in the south parking lot.

2

The restrooms on site are clean.

3

The park is family-friendly with a large playground for kids.

03
102 Boba Brooklyn Center image 1

Clean, modern space with cozy interior and seasonal decor changes creates a welcoming vibe. Background music features throwback hits, adding to the relaxed atmosphere. Presence of a cute mascot dog enhances the friendly environment.

Kids enjoy the popping boba and fresh fruit options. The mango yogurt with boba and bingsu stand out as popular choices among children.

People are saying

"I loved the smoothies here; the strawberry cloud was amazing."

"They have a super cute dog here; it made my visit more enjoyable."

"It's so Kid Friendly; the kids loved the boba and smoothies."

Good to know

1

They offered a promotion on Valentine's Day where buying two drinks included a free waffle snack.

2

The environment is very clean and well-kept.

3

Sugar levels in drinks are adjustable to suit personal preferences.

04
Lowry Nature Center in Carver Park Reserve image 1

Nature preserve offers wetlands, lakes, and well-marked trails with varying difficulty. Atmosphere stays peaceful and quiet, ideal for families and educational activities. Features include interactive games, a bird sanctuary, and picnic areas, creating a rich outdoor experience.

Many trails welcome dogs for walks. A dog park offers space for off-leash play. The nature center provides a good outdoor spot for dogs.

Many activities keep kids busy, including summer camps and interactive exhibits with an owl and a red-tailed hawk. A sledding hill offers outdoor fun in winter, and staff help make group events like birthday parties engaging.

People are saying

"I loved hiking the beautiful, well-marked trails in these parks."

"It's a great kid-friendly spot with lots of interactive games and activities."

"The walking trails here are beautiful and dog friendly."

Good to know

1

The restroom is open 24 hours for visitor convenience.

2

Public restrooms are available at the Nature Center and along the trails.

3

There is plenty of parking available for visitors.

05
Tangletown Bike Shop image 1

Neighborhood bike shop offers full bike service, bike rentals, and a friendly shop dog that adds warmth to the space. Staff share local and bike knowledge while providing affordable repairs and gear. Bikes ride smoothly and comfortably, making it a reliable spot for riders of all levels.

A super sweet shop dog is always present and very friendly. The dog keeps kids entertained and invites plenty of snuggles.

Expertise in customizing and upgrading bikes suits kids well. The shop features e-bikes great for riding with children and a friendly shop dog that entertains toddlers during visits.

People are saying

"They're so Kid Friendly, helping with my stroller and ensuring helmets fit."

"I snuggled with the super sweet shop dog for ages."

"The bike rental staff here is super friendly and helpful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for bike rentals, especially during peak seasons.

2

The shop offers a 10% discount on accessories with any bike purchase.

3

E-bikes are available for rent, ideal for families with kids.

06
Northwood Park image 1

Park offers paved walking and bicycling trails winding through a suburban setting with mature trees. It feels cozy and secure, tucked away in a neighborhood with plenty of family-friendly play equipment and spaces for picnics. Wildlife like ducks and birds add to the calm, natural atmosphere.

Small dogs enjoy walking here with their owners. People show responsible pet care by picking up after their dogs. The park offers a safe space for pets and kids.

Two ziplines and a variety of play equipment make it fun for kids. The playground feels cozy and safe for small children to explore and play.

People are saying

"It's a nice park for walking or taking the kids."

"It's a nice, safe place for kids to play."

"It's a nice place for walking dogs."

Good to know

1

Northwood Park has a playground suitable for young children.

2

The park features paved trails for walking and biking.

3

Parking is ample, but the lot is a bit far from the playground.

07
Farmington Barber Stylists image 1

Barber shop with a 1980s vibe offers a friendly atmosphere and welcomes families and kids. Walk-in only policy keeps waits short, while barbers provide skilled, traditional cuts at affordable prices.

Friendly dogs are often present, including the barber's dog and Joe's dog, adding a welcoming vibe for dog lovers.

Kids get great haircuts with fun touches like spiked styles. Staff are awesome with children, making the experience enjoyable and family friendly.

People are saying

"It's so Kid Friendly; my son loved his haircut."

"Joel's a great barber, funny and down to earth."

"It's so dog friendly; I loved Joe's dog!"

Good to know

1

The barber shop operates on a walk-in only basis for convenience.

2

Prices are affordable, making it a budget-friendly option for haircuts.

3

Expect short wait times due to efficient service.

08
Central Park image 1

Park offers well-maintained walking paths and multiple playgrounds designed for children of all ages. It hosts free live music at an outdoor amphitheater and provides varied recreational activities including volleyball courts, ball fields, and picnic areas. The space feels lively yet safe, with plenty of room for dogs and wildlife sightings.

Lots of open space lets dogs roam and play freely. Dogs stay on leashes and mix well with bikers and walkers around the lake.

Playgrounds include a jungle gym with toddler and older kid sections. Walking paths, open fields, and a play area with sand volleyball and picnic spots offer activities for all ages. Kids can enjoy critter watching and plenty of space to run and play.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the nice walking paths and trails in the park."

"It's a great dog-friendly place with lots of space to roam."

"The playgrounds here are great for kids of all ages."

Good to know

1

During the summer, expect free outdoor concerts and family movie nights.

2

Parking is available in the lot or across the street from the park.

3

The park features walking trails, an amphitheater, and ball fields.

09
Bassett Creek Park image 1

Large park with extensive walking trails and a 21-hole disc golf course offers varied outdoor activities. Shaded areas and abundant trees create a peaceful, natural atmosphere. Separate dog parks and a spacious playground with a zip line accommodate families and pet owners.

Separate areas for large and small dogs provide tailored space for play. The dog park offers a big open space with plenty to sniff and a nearby long walking trail for exercise.

Multiple areas offer fun for kids of all ages, including a huge playground and a zipline. Open spaces let children run freely and enjoy activities like Frisbee golf and baseball.

People are saying

"It's Dog Friendly with separate areas for large and small dogs."

"It's a huge playground, really fun for kids."

"You can have a great picnic on the huge disc golf course."

Good to know

1

The park features a newly updated 21-hole disc golf course.

2

There are separate areas for small and large dogs in the dog park.

3

Only porta potties are available for restroom facilities.

10
Lake Minnewashta Regional Park image 1

Large beach and extensive playground offer space for swimming and climbing. Open areas with picnic tables and volleyball sand courts create a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Calm water and walking trails provide a peaceful setting amid busy activity.

Large areas offer plenty of space for off-leash activities with separate parks for small and large dogs. A water fountain at the entry keeps dogs hydrated during walks on the off-leash dog trail.

A really huge park offers a big playground with sections for both younger and older kids. The nice beach is great for swimming and playing, while older kids can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards nearby.

People are saying

"This park's playground is challenging and has equipment for younger kids."

"The beach here is wonderful for kids and has shallow water."

"This park is really kid friendly with a huge playground."

Good to know

1

Pavilions can be reserved for larger gatherings.

2

The beach is suitable for children with a shallow entry.

3

The playground has new equipment and is suitable for all ages.

11
OneTen Cycles image 1
Bicycle Shop

Shop occupies a vintage industrial building with an immaculately organized interior. Atmosphere feels friendly and community-driven, enhanced by staff passion and a welcoming dog. Offers wide bike selection and a non-pushy, educational environment.

A friendly dog named Chloe often greets customers warmly. The dog is gentle with kids and adds a welcoming touch to the place.

A friendly dog greets kids gently while staff and the owner show kindness to children. They bring out toys and let kids try the bikes and bells, making the experience interactive and welcoming.

People are saying

"The staff here are so friendly and helpful with your dog."

"It's so kid friendly; the staff is patient and kind to children."

"I loved that it's a woman-owned business with a personal touch."

Good to know

1

OneTen Cycles is a woman-owned business providing a personal touch.

2

The shop offers bike storage services for winter tune-ups.

3

They provide a wide selection of bikes, including e-bikes and kids' bikes.

12
Weaver Lake Community Park image 1

Spacious park with a quiet beach and soft sand offers a calm, family-friendly atmosphere. Multiple courts and fields support basketball, tennis, pickleball, and baseball, alongside playgrounds and picnic areas. Trails wind through woods, and an ice rink adds seasonal variety.

Paths include both paved and dirt trails suitable for dogs. Dogs enjoy the space for walks lasting around 45 minutes. The park works well for outings with family, friends, and dogs.

Big park offers climbing ropes, a play area, and a quiet swimming beach for kids. Ice fishing lessons provide fun, hands-on activities for children.

People are saying

"This park has a great beach and playground for the kids."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with lots of tables in the woods."

"It's so Dog Friendly; my dog really enjoyed the walk."

Good to know

1

Swimming is permitted until 8 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

There are no lifeguards on duty, so swim at your own risk.

3

Parking is usually available, but can get busy on hot summer days.

13
GameRelated image 1
Game store

Small game store offers a spacious gaming area and a laid-back, cozy atmosphere. A friendly French Bulldog mascot roams the clean, well-lit space, which features an excellent selection of Magic: The Gathering and Pokรฉmon cards alongside unique gaming accessories and local artist crafts.

A friendly shop dog named Tron often sits nearby and interacts well with visitors. The dog is well behaved and adds a warm, welcoming vibe to the place.

Kids get recognized by name after a couple of visits. Staff and owners spend time helping kids find cards and keep the shop kid-friendly with a mascot named Tron. The shop is clean and well lit, and other customers often interact kindly with children.

People are saying

"It's so kid-friendly; they knew my kids' names by the end of our visit."

"The staff here is so friendly and welcoming to dogs."

"The staff here make it feel like family, adding to the fun activities."

Good to know

1

GameRelated offers a large selection of trading cards, including Pokรฉmon and Magic.

2

Pricing is fair based on TCG player standards for trading cards.

3

They host regular tournaments for Magic, fostering a strong community.

14
Locke County Park image 1

Winding trails follow a creek through a large wooded area, offering peaceful nature sounds and scenic views including a river overlook. Facilities include playgrounds near ball fields, picnic pavilions, and a dog-friendly park. The atmosphere stays quiet and relaxed, suitable for casual walks, family activities, and small gatherings.

Two parks include a small dog park and easy walking trails suitable for dogs and families.

Background play area offers a sweet spot for kids while adults watch nearby. Walking paths and a nearby waterfall add to the fun, making it easy to keep an eye on children playing at the field.

People are saying

"This peaceful Meditation Spot offers quiet trails and sounds of nature."

"I found the parks here to be nice and well-maintained."

"The playground is sweet and perfect for watching kids."

Good to know

1

The park has three parking lots available for visitors.

2

Public restrooms are accessible within the park.

3

The park is dog-friendly, allowing pets on leashes.

15
Scheels' Aquarium image 1
Tourist attraction

Two vertical pillar tanks form an archway filled with hundreds of colorful fish, creating a gigantic aquarium that visitors can walk under. The space combines arcade games, an indoor Ferris wheel, and a dog-friendly environment, drawing crowds with its lively and interactive atmosphere.

Allows dogs on leash inside the store. Aquarium area is also pet-friendly. Welcomes well-behaved dogs throughout the premises.

Aquarium with overhead fish fascinates kids as they watch fish swim above. Two vertical pillar tanks form an archway where children run around exploring. Small corners with arcades and games add extra fun for kids.

People are saying

"The aquarium is a beautiful and amazing underwater wonderland."

"It's a fun experience with lots to see and explore."

"The aquarium is amazing and totally kid friendly."

Good to know

1

Scheels' Aquarium is free to visit, making it accessible for everyone.

2

The aquarium is located at the main entrance of Scheels, easy to find.

3

Expect large crowds, especially on weekends, which may lead to long wait times.

16
Sauna Camp image 1

Wood-burning saunas sit along a lake shore, offering gorgeous views and easy lake access for cold plunges. The atmosphere feels magical and spiritual, blending raw nature with a calm, welcoming vibe. The setup creates a unique contrast therapy experience that feels both invigorating and deeply relaxing.

Camp dogs roam freely and interact with visitors. Pets include a cute dog at Sauna Camp, making it a friendly spot for dog lovers.

Private saunas accommodate large groups including families with kids aged 13 to 23. Kids can join the sauna experience comfortably in these settings.

People are saying

"The Sauna staff are so friendly and genuinely interested in making your experience amazing."

"The saunas were hot and the cold plunge was invigorating."

"The staff here are so friendly and helpful with our dogs."

Good to know

1

Community cold plunge and sauna events are regularly held at Sauna Camp.

2

Reservations are recommended for events to ensure a spot.

3

Bring sandals or slides for walking to the lake.

17
Excelsior Bay Books image 1

Cozy bookstore with comfortable chairs and a carefully curated collection spanning adult, YA, and children's books. Welcoming atmosphere includes dog-friendly policies and an accessible physical space. Small size with limited inventory, but offers quick ordering for any book not in stock.

Dogs roam freely inside the bookstore, with a sleepy dog often napping in a corner. The owners are friendly to dogs, even when one tries to steal a bone from the shop dog.

A great children's and young readers section offers a wide variety of books. Staff engage in genuine conversations with kids and encourage them to read as long as they want.

People are saying

"The bookstore staff are so sweet and knowledgeable."

"It's Dog Friendly; my dog loved walking around this store."

"The staff here is so friendly and knowledgeable about books."

Good to know

1

The bookstore offers to order any specific books you want.

2

Excelsior Bay Books has a great selection of new adult and children's books.

3

The store is accessible for people with disabilities.

18
Matoska Beach image 1

Park with a shallow sandy swim area and a dock offers a dog-friendly beach where dogs swim and play. Atmosphere is peaceful and clean, with responsible dog owners and occasional police presence managing the space. Limited parking and small size create a cozy, well-used spot favored by dog lovers.

Shallow, clean water lets dogs swim safely and play freely. Most owners stay attentive while dogs run off leash and socialize in this dog-friendly beach environment.

Shallow water and a designated kids' swim area make this beach suitable for younger children and non-swimmers. The setting offers a safe environment for kids to enjoy the water.

People are saying

"It's a great dog friendly beach for running and swimming."

"It's a great Kid Friendly beach with a shallow area for little ones."

Good to know

1

Matoska Beach is a dog beach; expect dogs to be present at all times.

2

There are doggie bags available for cleaning up after pets.

3

Parking at the boat slip is very limited; arrive early.

19
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.

Leashed dogs enjoy walking trails and open spaces. The area welcomes pets for picnics, playground visits, and bike rides.

Fishing along the bank offers kids a hands-on experience, including catching large fish with a telescopic rod. The park features accessible trails and scenic waterfalls that kids enjoy exploring.

People are saying

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

"It's a fun place with a playground and bubbles for kids."

"It's dog friendly, perfect for a walk with your pet."

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.

20
Forgotten Star Brewing Co. image 1

Massive taproom and outdoor space combine with fire pits, games, and a resident food truck to create a lively, family- and pet-friendly atmosphere. The vibe balances a rundown aesthetic with clean, welcoming areas where people gather for excellent local beer and occasional live music.

Huge space welcomes dogs both inside and out. The patio and taproom are dog friendly, with branded leashes and toys available for pets.

Big sandy play area and kids' book reading events create a fun space for children. The brewery welcomes kids and pets, making it suitable for birthday parties and social gatherings.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great beer and vibe here."

"It's a great dog-friendly spot with a huge space inside and out."

"It's super kid friendly with a big sandy area for them to play."

Good to know

1

Kidtoberfest features bounce houses, animals, face painting, music, and great beer selections.

2

Trivia night happens every Monday with a fun atmosphere and prizes.

3

The brewery hosts various events like bingo, yoga, and open mic nights.

21
Aquatore Park image 1

Open green spaces with shaded picnic shelters and extensive playground equipment create a family-friendly atmosphere. Separate areas for dogs and a zip line for all ages add variety to activities. The park stays calm and quiet, making it suitable for long outings.

An extensive dog park with separate areas for big and small dogs, marked by clear signage. Dogs run freely chasing squirrels, but some owners bring larger dogs into the small dog area, causing safety issues.

Play structures suit both big and little kids with multiple swings above solid ground for safety. Kids enjoy the zipline, slides, and a swing setup that lets a mother and toddler swing together.

People are saying

"This place is kid friendly with a great playground and swings."

"It's a great dog park, fun for all the dogs."

"The bathrooms here were clean and nearby."

Good to know

1

The park has separate areas for big and small dogs.

2

The playground is wheelchair accessible.

3

There are lots of trees providing shade during hot summer days.

22
Silverwood Park image 1

Park offers quiet natural spaces with scenic trails, sculpture and poetry gardens, and a large lake for kayaking and fishing. Visitors find it peaceful for walking, relaxing, and small gatherings. Amenities include picnic areas, a pavilion, and a modern lodge with a coffee shop.

Trails welcome dogs for walks and runs. A lake offers a spot for dogs to swim. The environment stays peaceful and open for pets and families.

Walking paths offer easy access for families with kids. A playground and a swimming beach provide fun spots for children. Staff engage well with kids during various family programs and school events.

People are saying

"I found the park's trails perfect for a peaceful stroll."

"I loved the fun sculptures and the pathway that wraps around the area."

"It's so kid friendly with a playground and swimming beach."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for two-hour periods, such as 9-11, 11-1, 1-3.

2

Arriving late blocks the next reservation period, requiring a two-hour wait.

3

The park features a cafe inside the visitor building.

23
Fish Lake Regional Park image 1

Park features beautiful tree-lined trails and a scenic lake with a clean, kid-friendly beach and watercraft rentals. Atmosphere stays peaceful and safe, attracting people for walking, swimming, and dog activities. Amenities include paved trails, a dog park, and plenty of space for relaxation.

Separate dogs' playground offers a dedicated space for pets to play. The dog park provides ample room for exercise and walking. The area is clearly pet-friendly and welcoming.

A kid-friendly beach with a sand bottom and gentle slope offers safe play for children under 6. The splash area provides fun outdoor activities for kids during summer.

People are saying

"The beach here is clean and has lots of shade."

"It's a great dog park, one of the best in the city."

"The beach is kid friendly with soft sand and shallow water."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging during busy times, especially on weekends.

2

The park features a clean beach with shallow areas safe for young children.

3

Canoe rentals are available for those looking to explore the lake.

Discover more

Minnesota

Area guide
Loading Map...