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Guide to Central Minneapolis

Kid-friendly fun activities

You want to keep the kids entertained without sacrificing your own sanity or enjoyment.

Based on 899 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Bad Axe Throwing Minneapolis City Center image 1
Bad Axe Throwing Minneapolis City Center image 2
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Rustic space with two throwing lanes offers a fun competitive activity centered on axe throwing. The atmosphere stays relaxed and friendly with lively music enhancing the energy. It suits groups, dates, and parties looking for an engaging and social experience.

Coaches give extra attention and keep a close eye on kids to prioritize safety. They run fun games and play music kids request while teaching skills like hitting the bulls eye and throwing knives.

Instructors like Kevin B and Jeremy make the experience super fun and easy. The activity works well for both throwers and spectators, offering a great option for teenagers and groups of friends.

People are saying

"The coaches here make the fun activities feel super entertaining and enjoyable."

"It's so Kid Friendly; the coaches are patient and fun with kids."

"The food here was great and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is validated if you park in the City Center Ramp.

2

Expect to pay around $70 for two people to throw axes.

3

The venue offers a selection of drinks and snacks like pizza and grilled cheese.

02
Trapped Puzzle Rooms image 1
Escape room center

Escape rooms feature intricate themes like dragons, wizards, and superheroes with immersive decor and creative puzzles. Atmosphere stays positive and engaging, offering challenging yet fair experiences. Rooms include unique interactive effects and use space cleverly to enhance immersion.

Puzzle rooms offer fun challenges suitable for kids around 11 to 15 years old. Staff show patience and kindness, even accommodating special needs and calming scared children.

Escape rooms offer two difficulty levels to suit all ages and skill levels. Themed rooms like Marvel's It's All Fun and Games and Dragon's Keep provide a fun challenge for families and mixed groups.

People are saying

"The escape rooms here are so creative and fun!"

"The escape rooms here are so immersive and creative."

"The staff here is so kind and helpful with the kids."

Good to know

1

Parking is readily available on the street, especially on Sundays.

2

The location does not have elevator access, which may affect some visitors.

3

The escape rooms are suitable for families, including kids aged 10 and up.

03
Mill City Museum image 1
History museum

Ruins of an old flour mill create a historic atmosphere with breathtaking views of the river, city, and Stone Arch Bridge from the rooftop deck. Interactive exhibits, including an elevator ride and water features, engage families and visitors. The space feels small and cozy, offering a relaxed experience without crowds.

Plenty of hands-on activities keep kids engaged. Exhibits balance adult and kid-oriented content well.

Docents bring history to life with fun and knowledgeable stories. The Flour Tour offers a creative way to explore the building's past, making it engaging for all ages.

People are saying

"The interactive exhibits at the museums were really interesting."

"It's a fun place to learn about Minneapolis's history."

"It's really kid friendly with so many fun interactive exhibits."

Good to know

1

Adult tickets cost $15 and children's tickets cost $8.

2

The museum offers a Flour Tower elevator show every 30 minutes.

3

Parking is available nearby, but it can fill up quickly during events.

04
Escape The Room Minneapolis image 1
Escape room center

Escape room center offers immersive themes with creative, well-designed sets that include hidden rooms and intuitive puzzles. The atmosphere stays fun and exciting with a difficulty level that suits a wide range of ages and groups. It serves as a popular spot for team building and group activities.

Escape rooms offer kid friendly challenges suitable for children as young as 9. Families with kids aged 10 to 15 enjoy activities like The Apartment and DIG game together.

Escape rooms offer fun and challenging puzzles with clues that keep you moving. Hosts like Alexander and Jake make the experience exciting and well managed.

People are saying

"This escape room experience is so much fun and really creative."

"This escape room is super fun and great for kids."

"I had a great time and highly recommend it for team building."

Good to know

1

The escape room accommodates up to ten players, but 3-5 players is ideal.

2

The event is well organized and suitable for team building activities.

3

The Dig escape room offers a fun and challenging experience.

05
Puttshack - Minneapolis image 1
Miniature golf course

Electronic mini golf courses feature unique themed holes with automatic score tracking via smart golf balls. Multiple bars and a well-appointed interior create a fun, lively atmosphere with good music and friendly competition. The venue suits all ages and skill levels, offering accessible facilities and varied gaming rooms.

Activities suit all ages, from little kids to adults. Kids find plenty to enjoy, making it a solid spot for family outings.

Mini golf offers a lot of fun with engaging courses. Combining golfing and dining creates a lively atmosphere for a fun outing.

People are saying

"The mini golf here is a fun activity with unique, high-tech courses."

"It's a really cool place with a great vibe."

"It's really fun and kid friendly with unique mini golf."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekends and busy times.

2

The venue is wheelchair and stroller accessible.

3

Parking is ample and adjacent to the venue.

06
Five Iron Golf image 1
Indoor golf course

Indoor golf space features state-of-the-art Trackman simulators and multiple seating areas for groups. Atmosphere blends fun, lively vibes with a cozy bar area filled with TV screens. Offers $5 bottomless wings and a variety of cocktails, creating a social, sports-friendly environment.

Offers fun activities suitable for both adults and kids. Hosts birthday celebrations that engage children well.

Golf simulators offer a variety of games that keep both adults and kids entertained. Group outings and parties have a fun vibe that works well for casual gatherings or client events.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and way better than I expected."

"I had a great time and enjoyed the fun atmosphere."

"It's fun for kids and adults alike."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3pm to 6pm with great deals on drinks and appetizers.

2

Validated parking is available for free when you pull into the parking ramp.

3

The booth rental costs $25 per hour, making it affordable for groups.

07
U.S. Bank Stadium image 1

Glass windows and a modern design create a bright, open stadium with comfortable seating and excellent sightlines from every level. The atmosphere is electric and friendly, especially during football games with the SKOL chant and horn energizing the crowd. Spacious outdoor areas support lively tailgating and social gatherings before events.

Kids get to see and even bump fists with the Vikings players. The skip chant and horn before kickoff excite children, and playing or watching football here creates memorable experiences for families.

Events offer raw energy and fun atmosphere with performances by artists like Abel and AC/DC. Sports games bring excitement, including extra innings wins and engaging crowds, plus freebies and discounts on apparel.

People are saying

"The atmosphere at live sports games here is electric and exciting."

"It's a loud, proud, and fun environment with an electric atmosphere."

"It's so Kid Friendly; my son got to meet Mike Singletary!"

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult; arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Food and drink prices are high, so budget accordingly.

3

Bag checks and metal detectors are in place for security.

08
Orpheum Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Historic theater offers an intimate setting with classic, ornate design and great acoustics that support plays, musicals, and concerts. Atmosphere feels old school and classy, creating a timeless experience. Seating includes sloped floors and balconies, though access involves many stairs.

Shows include sensory-based performances with volunteers to assist all guests. Popular kids shows like Paw Patrol Live keep children enthralled and engaged throughout.

Lively shows like Paw Patrol Live and Clue create an energetic and funny atmosphere. Staff keep things fun and accessible, making it a solid spot for a fun evening out.

People are saying

"This theater is visually appealing and beautiful."

"I saw a fantastic show and thought it was a fun place."

"It's a fun, kid-friendly experience with phenomenal shows."

Good to know

1

Expect long waits for women's restrooms, especially during busy shows.

2

Plan for extra time if using a wheelchair due to crowded conditions.

3

Parking in the Hawthorne ramp is recommended for easy access.

09
Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis image 1

Hotel offers stunning city views and a warm, elegant atmosphere that blends comfort with luxury. Spa and pool areas provide a relaxing vibe with well-maintained, spacious amenities. Guests often enjoy personalized touches like welcome champagne and custom desserts, enhancing a romantic and memorable stay.

Rooms include a tent set up for children with robes and slippers in their sizes. Staff pay close attention to detail to make children feel like royalty. Massages help kids relax, even those with high anxiety.

Upstairs offers a unique "Up North" experience that stands out. The prix fixe menu features Minnesota-themed courses with a fun highlight on fondue.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were so kind and helpful."

"It's so Kid Friendly; they even set up a tent and robes in their size."

"The "Up North" experience upstairs was very fun and special."

Good to know

1

Brunch is served on Sundays, offering a unique dining experience.

2

The hotel is a popular venue for weddings and events.

3

Expect noise during events like concerts or festivals nearby.

10
Loring Park image 1

Urban park with well-kept pond and vibrant flowers creates a peaceful refuge amid city life. Open spaces and varied courts support activities for all ages, while benches and walking paths invite relaxation. The atmosphere balances serene natural beauty with lively events and friendly wildlife.

A play area and kiddie pool provide fun spots for kids. Open spaces let children explore and play freely alongside dog walkers.

Events offer fun for all ages. Kids enjoy the cute and playful atmosphere. Activities like K add extra engagement and excitement.

People are saying

"I found the park's paved walkways perfect for walking and jogging."

"It's a fun, kid-friendly place with a great play area."

"It's a fun place for all ages and family."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging, especially during events.

2

Seasonal events and festivals often take place here, adding a lively community feel.

3

During winter, the park's pathways are snow-cleared, ensuring accessibility and safety.

11
Guthrie Theater image 1
Performing arts theater

Performing arts theater housed in an architecturally stunning building with a cantilevered river view and multiple floors offering spectacular cityscapes. Atmosphere feels romantic and cozy with excellent sightlines from all seats and a lively energy during performances. Accessible lounges and bars provide comfortable spaces for socializing before and after shows.

Offers summer programs for kids and young adults in dance, acting, and voice lessons. Stages memorable shows like Christmas Carol that engage children and families.

Cool architecture makes the theater a fun spot. Kids enjoy the space and its rich history adds to the experience.

People are saying

"I found the theater to be a beautiful and fantastic place for performing arts."

"It's a very fun place to visit."

"It's a magical place for kids to have fun."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a ramp directly across the street from the theater.

2

The theater allows public exploration of its spaces during non-performance times.

3

The theater is accessible for all patrons, ensuring a comfortable experience.

12
The Armory image 1
Live music venue

Large venue combines historic architecture with modern amenities like multiple bars and suites. Sound system delivers great acoustics creating an intimate yet energetic atmosphere even with big crowds. Balcony and club level offer comfortable seating and good views for live music events.

Staff accommodations help kids with disabilities enjoy events comfortably. Kids experience memorable first concerts and have fun at various shows, including boxing matches, even in crowded settings.

Events deliver a fun and safe atmosphere with a kind security team. The VIP section on the second floor adds an extra layer of enjoyment.

People are saying

"The bathrooms here are spacious and kept clean."

"I had so much fun at the concerts here."

"The staff here is amazing and really makes it kid friendly."

Good to know

1

Parking is available underneath the venue with a private entrance.

2

Expect heavy traffic and crowds after events.

3

The venue has only one exit, which can create safety concerns during large events.

13
The Nicollet Diner image 1
American restaurant

Classic diner setting combines with neon signs and open patios to create a lively, welcoming space. Energy shifts from relaxed daytime vibes to late-night buzz with an arcade bar upstairs. The atmosphere embraces diversity and community, making it a hub for all walks of life.

Staff keep the environment safe and enjoyable for kids and are very accommodating with toddlers. Kids menu offers good portions with dishes like fried chicken and omelets that kids enjoy.

Van creates a fun and inviting environment that sets the tone. The lively crew, especially Thunder, adds to the great atmosphere making it a very fun spot to hang out.

People are saying

"The food here is simple, elegant, and well-priced."

"The staff here are so friendly and accommodating with kids."

"You'll have a super fun evening with dinner and a captivating drag show."

Good to know

1

The Nicollet Diner is open 24 hours a day, making it a late-night option.

2

Happy hour offers two-for-one drinks until 7 PM on weekdays.

3

The diner hosts a popular drag show event on certain nights.

14
The Fillmore Minneapolis image 1
Live music venue

Live music fills a beautiful venue with intimate size and great sight lines from every spot. The atmosphere feels packed and energetic, creating a close connection between performers and audience. Multiple bars and a lounge offer convenient drink options despite high prices.

Staff offer VIP balcony seating for kids to enjoy concerts with a great view and a private space. Events like toddler techno cater specifically to young children, and staff ensure kids stay well hydrated during shows.

Small venue offers a fun experience with a clean environment and welcoming atmosphere. Friendly bartenders add to the lively vibe during events.

People are saying

"The bathrooms here are nice and clean."

"It's a fun venue with a cool, intimate vibe."

"The staff here are so attentive and Kid Friendly, they even offered my daughter a better view."

Good to know

1

Drinks cost about $20 each, and only card payments are accepted.

2

Expect crowded conditions during sold-out events, making it hard to move.

3

There is only one set of restrooms for general admission attendees.

15
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.

Kids enjoy the sliders and chicken strip basket here. No dedicated kids' meals exist, but sharing dishes like the fried chicken sandwich and pulled pork Mac n cheese works well.

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."

"The kids said the food was bussin' and they loved the sliders."

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

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.

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Central Minneapolis, Minneapolis

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