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Guide to Minnesota

Fun activities with cheese curds

Made for those who need a side of entertainment to go along with their cheese curds.

Based on 838 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
MN State Fairgrounds image 1
MN State Fairgrounds image 2
MN State Fairgrounds image 3
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Massive event grounds host live music, animal exhibits, and a skyline ride offering wide views. The atmosphere stays safe and fun with plenty of space to avoid feeling crowded. Families and all ages enjoy diverse entertainment and food options throughout the day.

Mouse Trap cheese curds stand out for their flavor and quality. Cheese curd tacos and classic fried cheese curds also appear as popular options, consistently delivering on taste.

Plenty of fun rides and entertaining activities fill the fairgrounds. Various events like car shows and flea markets offer a safe and clean environment for a fun day.

People are saying

"I loved all the great food available here."

"I had a lot of fun experiencing the fairgrounds."

"I loved the Wisconsin Cheese Curds and the corn dogs."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $20, but can be much higher if you arrive late.

2

Tickets are $15 each, and food costs extra.

3

Expect large crowds, especially on weekends, which can be overwhelming.

02
New Bohemia image 1
German restaurant

Long tables and full-wall windows open to a covered patio create an open, casual space with a laid back vibe. Loud music and elbow-to-elbow seating give a lively, downtown feel, especially on game and trivia nights. Board games and an extended happy hour add to the fun, social atmosphere.

Cheese curds here melt in your mouth and come in a variety that rivals the state fair. They pair well with items like truffle fries and bratwurst, making them a standout choice.

Trivia nights on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday bring a fun atmosphere that fills up quickly. Staff and guests share a variety of appetizers while enjoying the engaging games.

People are saying

"I loved the great variety of local beers here."

"The giant pretzel with pepper jack cheese dip is amazing."

"These Wisconsin cheese curds melted in my mouth."

Good to know

1

Trivia night occurs every Thursday at 8pm, making it a popular evening.

2

Happy Hour offers $3 pints from 4-7pm on weekdays.

3

Expect busy crowds during Happy Hour and trivia nights.

03
Pints & Paddle image 1
Restaurant

Spacious venue combines pristine pickleball courts with a well-designed taproom offering a wide selection of beers, ciders, and cocktails. Atmosphere stays easy-going and relaxed, attracting groups for both sports and socializing. Large outdoor patio and numerous TVs add to the versatile entertainment options.

Square cheese curds come with a hot honey sauce and are less greasy than typical versions. They serve as a flavorful, well-presented option alongside other dishes like sliders and wings.

Numerous pickleball courts create a fun and welcoming atmosphere. The vibe suits beginners and makes it a great spot for work outings and casual play.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and tasty."

"You can pour your own beer from the self-serve taps."

"I really enjoyed the Wisconsin cheese curds with honey for dipping."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Wednesday at 7pm with no entry fee.

2

Bingo is hosted every Tuesday at 6pm; arrive early for a good seat.

3

Self-serve beer taps allow you to pour your own drinks from 73 options.

04
Minnesota State Fair image 1

Fairgrounds transform into a post-apocalyptic wonderland with over 60 rides and games spread across a well-designed layout. Lively crowds create a celebratory atmosphere filled with diverse live entertainment including music, comedy, and animal shows. Food stands offer a wide variety of treats, making it a melting pot for all ages.

Buckets of Mouse Trap cheese curds stand out, offering a generous portion for $20. Classic cheese curds come alongside other fried favorites like corn dogs and mini donuts, making them a staple snack here.

Events offer tons of things to do for all ages. The atmosphere stays super fun with plenty to see and eat.

People are saying

"The food options here are diverse and plentiful."

"I found the fun activities here to be great for all ages."

"I enjoyed the classic Wisconsin Cheese Curds at the fair."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $25, and availability can be limited during peak times.

2

The Minnesota State Fair runs from late August to shortly after Labor Day each year.

3

Restrooms are plentiful and well-maintained throughout the fairgrounds.

05
PINZ image 1
Bowling alley

Bowling alley combines well-maintained lanes with a huge arcade and two-story laser tag for diverse entertainment. Atmosphere stays friendly and fun, welcoming families and groups with lively music and lighting. Seating offers excellent views to watch games, while VIP areas provide quieter spaces.

Cheese curds arrive on time and pair well with other items like pizza and fries. They taste delicious and are a consistent part of the food offerings.

Games and bowling create a fun vibe for families and groups. The arcade offers chances to win jackpots, and pizza adds to the enjoyment during outings or birthday parties.

People are saying

"The staff here is so helpful and friendly during bowling."

"I had so much fun bowling here."

"I enjoyed eating the Wisconsin Cheese Curds here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for birthday parties and group events at PINZ.

2

Trivia night occurs every Wednesday at 7pm with no entry fee.

3

Kids Bowl Free program is available during summer for children under 15.

06
Sandy's Tavern image 1
Bar & grill

Classic neighborhood dive with old school finishes and a small, cozy space offers a laid back vibe and cold beer on tap. Outdoor patio and porch seating add casual comfort, while pinball machines and pulltab games provide simple entertainment. Burgers stand out as a signature offering in a setting that feels safe and welcoming.

Cheese curds come out perfect and tasty with a solid flavor. They pair well with onion rings and burgers, making for a great combo.

Wednesday Bingo Night and Monday night trivia offer fun weekly activities. Karaoke on Sunday evenings adds to the old-school dive bar atmosphere with a lively crowd and engaging staff.

People are saying

"The food here is awesome, fast, hot, and tasty."

"I thought their burgers were the best I'd ever had."

"The Wisconsin Cheese Curds here are so tasty."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Monday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Bingo night is held every Wednesday evening starting at 7pm.

3

Karaoke takes place on Sundays at 9pm with a two-drink minimum.

07
Northern Taphouse- Woodbury image 1

Bright bar space with big TVs and ample booth seating creates a lively setting, especially during sports events. Outdoor patio offers a spacious area for gatherings, while the atmosphere stays warm and welcoming. Music tends to be soft, keeping the vibe friendly but less energetic.

Ellsworth cheese curds come lighter than traditional breaded versions and are very filling. They serve them with zesty orange or sweet chili sauces.

Games create a fun atmosphere that stands out. The interior design adds to the unique and lively experience.

People are saying

"They have a really great and ever-evolving beer selection."

"These Wisconsin cheese curds are state fair style and delicious."

"The food and drinks here are great, especially the craft beer selection."

Good to know

1

On Thursdays, they have a .99 wing special and $5 off drafts.

2

Expect a 2-hour wait for dinner time on weekends.

3

Happy hour runs from 3-6 PM M-F with $2 off taps and appetizers.

08
Pub 42 image 1
American restaurant

Large space divides into separate areas for bar, dining, and an amazing patio with an outdoor bar. Atmosphere shifts from cozy by the fireplace to loud during events like bingo night. Menu features house-made sauces and standout dishes like black and blue burger and jambalaya.

Light, fluffy cheese curds melt in your mouth with a side of honey mustard that stands out. Fried cheese curds pair well with sandwiches and cold beer for a solid snack.

Daily fun specials and an Initials game create a lively vibe. Friendly bartenders and a raffle add to the fun atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Pub's food is great, especially the millionaire bacon burger."

"The patio here is really nice and large outdoor seating."

"The food and drinks here are excellent with a huge menu."

Good to know

1

Bingo night happens every Wednesday with a raffle ticket for each drink ordered.

2

Happy hour includes all appetizers at $2 off, but craft beers are excluded.

3

The buffet is only available on select dates, like Thanksgiving.

09
Pauly's Pub & Grill image 1

Bar and grill filled with numerous TVs and loud jukebox music creates a high-energy atmosphere that caters to sports fans. Live music and a fire pit on the patio add variety to the experience. Seating is comfortable, but noise levels make it less suitable for quiet conversation or children.

Fried appetizers include habanero cheese curds and dill cheese curds that stand out for their flavor. The cheese curds are consistently delectable and a popular choice.

Fun vibe caters to sports fans with a jukebox adding to the atmosphere. Framed portraits create a guessing game, making it a fun neighborhood bar with solid pub grub.

People are saying

"You have to try the burgers at this Pub; they're amazing."

"The vibe here is fun, with a great jukebox."

"I had the best Wisconsin Cheese Curds I have ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Thursday between 9 and 11 PM with great deals on drinks.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere during happy hour with affordable drink options.

3

Prices for appetizers and burgers are on the higher side.

10
328 Grill image 1

Grill operates within an American Legion setting, blending a homey, small town vibe with a lively atmosphere marked by bar arguments and discussions. Seating divides between a bar area and a spot near pull-tabs and gaming, creating a tight but well-loved space. Live music plays behind the restaurant, adding to the energetic, community feel.

Cheese curds come with thin breading that stays light and not greasy. They are hot and melty inside, often described as cheesy clouds and have won awards for quality.

Playing BINGO at 328 Grill offers a fun atmosphere with friendly, knowledgeable staff at both the Legion and Grill. The vibe stays lively despite the location.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were top tier."

"These Wisconsin cheese curds are the best I've had anywhere."

"The burgers here are great and always tasty."

Good to know

1

328 Grill hosts weekly bingo and a monthly comedy show.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait during peak dinner hours.

3

The burger of the week offers a unique flavor each visit.

11
MC's Pub - Oakdale image 1
American restaurant

Bar space with many TVs and varied games creates a lively, sports-focused atmosphere. Noise levels rise after events, making conversation difficult at times. Crowd tends to be mellow and laid back, with a fresh, updated look throughout.

Hosts run fun bingo games with lots of bingo-related games and tabs. The atmosphere stays lively with a short pull-tab girl adding to the entertainment.

People are saying

"The burgers here are big and made with fresh, not frozen, beef."

"The pub staff are so friendly and make you feel welcome."

"I enjoyed the novelty cheese curd appetizer; it was really good."

Good to know

1

Bingo night occurs weekly, offering multiple games and prizes.

2

Special deals on appetizers and wings are available during Vikings games.

3

Thursday burger special features any burger for $8.99.

12
Off the Rails image 1
Bar & grill

Long bar with many taps and patio overlooking stadium create a lively setting. Live music and DJ energize the space, especially before games when the crowd is loud and festive. Dog friendly atmosphere attracts locals who enjoy games, drinks, and casual fun.

Mostly crumbs make up the cheese curds, with only about five good-sized pieces. They take a long time to arrive, sometimes after others who came later have left.

Trivia night happens on Mondays at 6 with an amazingly kind host. A fun darts game adds to the lively atmosphere, and the staff keeps things friendly and engaging.

People are saying

"The food at this bar is genuinely delicious and great."

"You'll find a great beer and cocktail selection here."

"I thought the Wisconsin Cheese Curds were really good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available, but ask for the menu during busy times.

2

Trivia night occurs weekly, providing a fun activity for visitors.

3

Expect a reduced menu on days with special events at the nearby ballpark.

13
Wagner's Drive-In image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Old-school drive-in with carhop service and retro canopy creates a nostalgic vibe. Picnic tables with umbrellas offer outdoor seating alongside covered parking. Burgers and fries receive consistent praise for classic taste and quality.

Cheese curds come fresh and incredible here. They pair well with burgers and onion rings, adding a delicious touch to the meal.

Offers a fun old-fashioned drive-in experience with a retro atmosphere. Hosts car shows featuring old cars and their owners, making it enjoyable for all ages, especially kids.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were outstanding and never disappoint."

"These Wisconsin cheese curds are fantastic and especially excellent."

"I found the drive-in experience to be a fun, old-fashioned time."

Good to know

1

Wagner's Drive-In hosts classic car shows every Monday in summer, creating a fun atmosphere.

2

Prices are reasonable, averaging around $40 for three burgers and sides.

3

The new paved parking lot enhances the overall experience for visitors.

14
Jameson's Tavern image 1

Large space with a 40's style bar and live music creates a fun, chill atmosphere. Backyard and game areas offer unique gathering spots. Crowd enjoys karaoke and cocktails like espresso martinis and MN Bulldogs.

Cheese curds here stand out for their undercooked texture sometimes, likely due to busy bartenders. They pair well with chicken tenders and voodoo shrimp, making them a notable dish on the menu.

People are saying

"You've gotta check out the bar's Tuesday car show."

"The staff here made our party weekend so special."

"The food here is amazing, honestly the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The Tuesday Classic Car Show starts at 6pm and features live music.

2

Trivia Night occurs every Thursday at 7pm with a $5 entry fee.

3

Parking is available on-site, but it can fill up quickly during events.

15
Hop House image 1
Sports bar

Sports bar offers ultra-large main TV and many screens for watching games, creating a high-energy atmosphere with loud sound and live DJs. Interior is well lit and beautifully designed, attracting a stylish crowd and maintaining a fun, safe vibe.

Cheese curds come as a safe choice here with decent quality. The curds are okay but the dipping sauce does not match up.

Live music and sports create a fun atmosphere with good energy. Sundays get lively when the Vikings play, adding to the excitement. A solid drink selection complements the vibe.

People are saying

"The food here is excellent while watching live sports."

"It's a fun place for watching sports with tons of TVs."

"I thought the Wisconsin cheese curds were a good choice."

Good to know

1

Reservations are advisable during busy event days to secure a good table.

2

Service can be slow in the lounge area, especially during peak times.

3

No outside food is allowed, so plan accordingly.

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