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Guide to Central Minneapolis

Kid-friendly scenic views

You want to take in the scenery without worrying about whether the environment is welcoming to your children.

Based on 862 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Mill City Museum image 1
Mill City Museum image 2
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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.

The observation deck on the top floor offers sweeping panoramas of the Mississippi River and the Stone Arch Bridge. The Flour Tower provides a great view of the city and river from the outdoor observatory.

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

People are saying

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

"The views from the top floor are amazing."

"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.

02
North Loop Playground image 1

Playground sits along river walking trail with unbeatable river views. It offers varied play equipment that stimulates imagination for kids of all ages. The park features beautiful walking trails and many benches for relaxing.

Great views of the water stand out here. The park offers nice river views that many find beautiful and unbeatable.

North Loop Playground offers a variety of play items that engage kids of different ages. The park stimulates children's imagination and provides a nice view of the river while kids play.

People are saying

"This playground is great with lots of things to do."

"It's a kid-friendly park with beautiful river views."

"The river views from the park are beautiful."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $1 per hour on Saturday.

2

Bring your EpiPen if you are allergic to bee stings.

3

The playground is suitable for kids of different ages.

03
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.

Suites offer stunning views of downtown and the city skyline. Rooms on higher floors provide amazing cityscapes, and the pool area also features nice views.

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.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were so kind and helpful."

"You get amazing city and river views from up high."

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

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.

04
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.

Cantilevered architecture offers unobstructed views of the city and river. Multiple rooms and decks provide spectacular sights of the Stone Arch Bridge, Mississippi River, and historic mills.

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.

People are saying

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

"You can see amazing views of the river and bridges from the observation deck."

"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.

05
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.

Views stay unobstructed from nearly every spot, including the balcony and even the back. No one blocks the stage sightline at all.

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.

People are saying

"The bathrooms here are nice and clean."

"The scenic views are great from just about everywhere."

"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.

06
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.

Every seat offers a great view of the field with no bad spots. The stadium is modern and clean, making it easy to enjoy the wonderful views from anywhere inside.

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.

People are saying

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

"The stadium's scenic views of the downtown skyline are amazing."

"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.

07
Embassy Suites by Hilton Minneapolis Downtown image 1

Repurposed office building offers spacious rooms with spectacular city views and a tasteful modern design. The atmosphere mixes quiet comfort inside with lively street noise and late-night music outside. Amenities include a well-equipped gym, pool, and complimentary breakfast with made-to-order omelets.

Rooms offer amazing city views including a mix of historical buildings and modern development. Suites like the Corner King provide spectacular panoramas of downtown and local landmarks.

Suites offer separate sleeping areas so kids can sleep early while parents stay up. Snacks and non-alcoholic drinks are available for children. Rooms are spacious, fitting families comfortably.

People are saying

"The complimentary breakfast here was extensive and well worth it."

"The beds here are really comfortable and clean."

"The rooms are large and roomy, perfect for families with kids."

Good to know

1

The hotel offers a complimentary evening reception daily at 5 pm with drinks and snacks.

2

Happy hour features complimentary snacks and one free alcoholic beverage each evening.

3

Valet parking is available for $57 per night, but no self-parking options exist.

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.

Great views are visible from all seats, including the balcony. The balcony offers a clear view of the entire stage and the audio remains very clear even from the cheapest seats.

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

People are saying

"This theater is visually appealing and beautiful."

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

"The theatre's interior is stunning and beautiful."

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
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.

Outdoor seating offers views of the park and US Bank Stadium. The patio provides a great vibe alongside these sights.

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.

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."

"The outdoor seating offers a great view of the park and stadium."

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.

10
Foshay Museum and Observation Deck image 1

Observation deck offers spectacular city views with stationary binocular stations on each corner for extended sightlines. The space features an Art Deco ambiance that evokes a sense of stepping back to the 1920s. A small museum shares the building's history, complementing the visual experience above the city.

The observation deck offers a 360-degree view of downtown with stunning cityscapes you can't find anywhere else. It's the only public spot in town with these unique views and entry is free.

Kids under 12 enter for free, making it easy to bring children along. Adult tickets cost around $15 to $18, and the space could be more child-friendly.

People are saying

"The view from the observation deck is amazing."

"The historical sites offer really cool views of the city."

"I enjoyed the amazing, great views from the observation deck."

Good to know

1

The Foshay Museum participates in Doors Open Minneapolis every year.

2

Expect over 30-minute wait times during the Doors Open event.

3

Entry to the observation deck costs $10 for non-hotel guests.

11
The Marquette Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton image 1

Hotel offers spacious rooms with excellent views and warm, sophisticated decor. Lounge areas encourage socializing with comfortable seating and lively amenities like a golf simulator. On-site parking and a sizable gym add convenience to the experience.

Rooms offer wonderful views that often exceed expectations. Suites and common areas feature exquisite layouts and decor that complement the scenery.

Staff like Julia interact well with kids, showing great care. Kids have access to pool tables for play.

People are saying

"The hotel staff here is so friendly and helpful."

"The room views were even better than I expected."

"The staff here are brilliant and so helpful with kids."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $65 daily for valet service.

2

The hotel does not offer free continental breakfast.

3

The hotel failed to mention they do not accept specific debit card carriers like Chime.

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.

Three levels offer great views with the club level standing out for its private bar and a ledge to set drinks. Balcony recliners and VIP areas provide excellent sightlines to the stage and good sound quality.

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.

People are saying

"The bathrooms here are spacious and kept clean."

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

"The views from the balcony seats were great."

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
Hyatt Regency Minneapolis image 1

Hotel offers spacious, quiet rooms with luxurious feel and beautiful city views. Fitness center stands out as a world-class gym with extensive equipment and basketball courts. Atmosphere varies from peaceful indoors to lively poolside noise during the day.

Rooms offer beautiful downtown skyline views that many book specifically for. The hotel sits close to a park with a lake and playground, adding to the scenic city views just a short walk away.

Children enjoy playing on the basketball court available at the hotel. The executive suite offers enough space for families with toddlers. Staff interact well with kids, adding a friendly touch.

People are saying

"The Hotel staff, especially Anita, helped me with parking validation."

"I loved the great skyline views from my room at night."

"The front desk staff is so nice and jokes around with your kids."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $30 per night, or $37 if you leave and return.

2

The hotel does not validate parking, leading to high fees.

3

The hotel is a popular venue for conventions like Anime Detour and Comic Book Convention.

14
Hilton Minneapolis image 1

Large lobby offers grand seating areas and connects to nearby venues via skyways. Rooms provide quiet, soundproof spaces with amazing city views despite busy surroundings. Gym includes an amazing lap pool and sauna, though workout space is limited.

Rooms on higher floors offer great views of downtown and the city skyline. Fireworks can be seen clearly from the 20th floor, adding to the scenic experience.

Staff show patience with children and help with unexpected messes by providing towels. The pool offers a fun spot where kids can enjoy themselves.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were so friendly and helpful."

"I had an amazing view from my room."

"The staff here are so understanding and helpful with kids."

Good to know

1

Parking is not owned by the hotel; use the kiosk for payment.

2

Expect safety concerns as multiple vehicles were broken into in the parking garage.

3

Rooms may not meet cleanliness standards; some reported issues with dirt and maintenance.

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