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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Saint Paul

Fun activities with outdoor space

Made for those who prioritize fresh air and open environments when planning their recreational time.

Based on 899 Opinions
+896
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Updated April 2026
01
Como Lakeside Pavilion image 1
Como Lakeside Pavilion image 2
Como Lakeside Pavilion image 3
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Performing arts theater

Outdoor pavilion on a lake offers covered seating with orchestra-quality live music and a cool breeze from the water. Visitors enjoy walking trails, paddle boats, and a relaxed, cozy atmosphere with space for sitting or dancing. The crowd is diverse and friendly, creating a welcoming community vibe.

Paddle boat swans light up at night for a unique ride. Summer concerts at the pavilion offer live music by the water and fun choir events with engaging setlists.

Located right on a lake, the venue offers outdoor seating and an outdoor bar near the stage serving beer and light drinks. It suits picnics, weddings, and casual lunches with family and friends in a natural setting.

People are saying

"It's a great outdoor space with a nice walking path around the lake."

"I enjoyed the fun live music while sitting by the water."

"I found the live music here to be really fun."

Good to know

1

Free concerts are held regularly at Como Lakeside Pavilion during the summer.

2

Parking is free but can be difficult to find on weekends.

3

The pavilion hosts live music events, often at no cost to attendees.

02
Waldmann Brewery image 1

Historic building hosts a German-style brewery with a heated biergarten featuring outdoor fire pits and live music. Atmosphere feels cozy and inviting, blending traditional charm with a lively social scene. Space welcomes families and pets, offering a relaxed yet vibrant experience.

Festive atmosphere and enthusiastic crowds create a lively setting. Music during Oktoberfest adds to the fun vibe while excellent beer and delicious food make activities dazzling and enjoyable.

A heated patio out back offers a comfortable spot for outdoor seating. Live music often plays, adding to the beer garden vibe. The space welcomes pets and suits casual dinners or events.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great beer brewed right on site."

"The patio is dog friendly and has great seating."

"The Oktoberfest celebration had a cheerful band and festive atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Oktoberfest celebration occurs annually in October with special events.

2

Tuesday night events feature live music and food specials.

3

Parking is limited to street parking, so arrive early.

03
White Squirrel Bar image 1

Small bar with a cozy atmosphere and live music every night creates a chill vibe for socializing. Spacious, pet-friendly patio with a fire pit offers a relaxed outdoor space. Drinks include signature cocktails and sour beers, with occasional food pop-ups on the patio.

Bingo night on the 3rd Sunday offers a fun group activity. Live music adds a lively vibe to the chill, dive bar atmosphere.

A spacious, cozy patio features huge pine trees and a fire pit, creating a tucked away vibe. It hosts a pop-up burger spot and offers a pet friendly environment with room for live music.

People are saying

"I loved the live music; the band had a great punk-rockish vibe."

"The patio is spacious and cozy with a fire pit."

"You can catch live music here almost every night."

Good to know

1

Bingo night occurs on the 3rd Sunday of each month.

2

Live shows happen almost every day with no cover charge.

3

Early shows run from 6 to 8 PM, perfect for a quick visit.

04
The Essence Event Center image 1

Spacious event venue combines exposed brick and natural light to create a warm, elegant atmosphere. Integrated sound and lighting systems energize the large dance floor, while versatile spaces accommodate both intimate and grand gatherings. The layout supports seamless flow, enhancing the overall experience.

Spacious outside courtyards and a large outdoor patio area create great spots for gatherings. The layout includes a brick patio with a bar and easy access to bathrooms.

People are saying

"This place is a stunning backdrop for any party, with beautiful rustic details."

"The staff here made our wedding day perfect and seamless."

"The outdoor space is stunning and well-designed."

Good to know

1

The venue has an open catering policy, allowing you to choose your own caterer.

2

Guests appreciate the free surface and garage parking right in front of the venue.

3

The venue rental includes a wooden arch, reducing the need for additional decorations.

05
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.

Shows at the zoo offer fun entertainment for both kids and adults. Como Regional Park provides a relaxing and educational outing suitable for all ages.

Outdoor covered venue offers a good view of the lake. The area features a carousel with historical significance and an outdoor zoo with giraffes, big cats, foxes, flamingos, and a duck pond.

People are saying

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

"It's a fun time with rides and attractions for the kids."

"It's a beautiful outdoor space with scenic walking paths."

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.

06
Patrick McGovern's Pub image 1

Historic building offers a spacious interior and a large outdoor patio with a waterfall feature and fireplaces. Atmosphere feels lively and welcoming, with TVs and games keeping energy up. Crowd enjoys casual dining and drinks in a comfortable, semi-outdoor setting.

Fun atmosphere creates a lively setting. Watching sports games adds to the engaging experience.

A huge patio offers a comfortable semi-outside space with a waterfall feature. The outdoor area feels rare and beautiful in the city, great for enjoying fresh air and gatherings.

People are saying

"The patio is a great spot for watching games."

"The covered patio area is a really comfortable outdoor space."

"It's a fun place to watch sports games."

Good to know

1

The upstairs area can be reserved for events, but may not be accessible for everyone.

2

Patrick McGovern's Pub hosts a New Year's Eve party annually.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere during major events like St. Patrick's Day.

07
Bad Weather Brewing Company image 1

Spacious brewery with indoor and outdoor seating including a year-round patio with fire tables and an outdoor ice bar. Atmosphere is lively and welcoming, often featuring arcade games and food trucks, attracting groups and families. Music can be loud, creating a vibrant but sometimes noisy environment.

Loads of arcade games and space for big groups create a lively setting. Trivia nights and fun music add to the engaging atmosphere for all ages.

Spacious outdoor patio stays open year-round with fire tables for warmth. Walls feature awesome murals, and the area offers plenty of room to relax by a bonfire or in the sun.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great beer they served."

"The patio has awesome vibes and plenty of space."

"The beer selection here is great, making for fun activities."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Wednesday at 7pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

The brewery is dog-friendly, allowing leashed dogs inside.

3

Food trucks are available on-site, with a schedule posted on their website.

08
Allianz Field image 1

Open stadium design offers fantastic views from every seat and a friendly, fun atmosphere with lively energy during matches. Well-distributed vendors and a brew hall create a social vibe, while a large playground and sensory kits support family-friendly experiences.

Energetic and loud fan atmosphere creates a super fun environment. Games offer a great place to have fun and enjoy the fun fan-base.

A spacious parking lot makes arriving easy. The Great Lawn offers a green spot for fans to gather and enjoy pre-game activities. A nice park just outside adds to the outdoor appeal.

People are saying

"The live sports atmosphere here is awesome with high-energy fans."

"The family fun before the match was really enjoyable."

"The outdoor space offers a fantastic game-day experience with great views."

Good to know

1

Clear bags are allowed, but larger bags will be turned away at security.

2

Food and drinks are available, but prices can be quite high.

3

Expect long lines for food and drinks during halftime.

09
Minnesota Transportation Museum image 1

Roundhouse setting hosts a cozy, casual space filled with train cars to walk through and model trains. Atmosphere stays quiet and friendly, welcoming families and solo visitors alike. Interactive features like a kids' zone and caboose ride keep children engaged for hours.

Kids find plenty of fun with a short train ride and varied exhibits. The TOTs and Trains morning event offers a relaxed, engaging time for toddlers and caregivers.

A climate-controlled outdoor train car serves as a party room. Volunteers show additional rolling stock and a steam engine in a large shed. Outside, car and engine restoration happens near a tent selling hotdogs and burgers.

People are saying

"I loved walking through the train cars at this museum."

"It's a fun, kid-friendly place with lots of trains to see and play with."

"You can explore huge, impressive old trains in the outdoor space."

Good to know

1

The museum hosts 'Tots and Trains' events on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays at 10:30 am.

2

Parking is very limited, so arriving early is advisable.

3

Admission includes train rides, making it a great value for families.

10
Alary's Bar image 1
Sports bar

Sports bar offers plenty of TVs and a full bar with various games like darts, pool, and ski ball. Bright, clean, and spacious interior includes a beautiful outdoor patio with covered and uncovered seating. Shuttle service connects to major events, creating a lively and comfortable atmosphere.

Fun atmosphere and friendly staff create a lively environment. Drinks and service add to the overall great fun on weekends.

Outdoor space features a beautiful patio with both covered and uncovered tables, offering options for sun lovers. The backyard patio adds an awesome vibe to the setting.

People are saying

"The brisket here is the best I've ever had."

"The patio is beautiful and inviting with flowers and umbrella tables."

"It's a fun spot with a great atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Breakfast at Alary's Bar starts at 9 AM and ends at noon.

2

They host Bar Trivia sessions available any time of day.

3

Alary's Bar offers validated parking in the ramp next door.

11
Dual Citizen Brewing Company image 1

Spacious brewery with indoor and outdoor seating and a large patio creates a fun, festive vibe. Music features hipster folk pop, and classic pinball games add to the atmosphere. Several TVs and a projection screen make it a good spot to watch local sports.

Events here are super fun and keep the energy high. Games add to the fun time atmosphere consistently.

Spacious outdoor seating fills former parking spots with tables under a large tent and on the patio. Music and classic pinball games add to the fun, festive vibe outside.

People are saying

"You have to try the beer; the IPAs and sours were amazing."

"The patio is spacious with fun, festive seating options."

"I thought this was the best brewery in town."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 7pm; expect a lively crowd.

2

Free music events occur every summer weekend, attracting many visitors.

3

Parking can be challenging; arrive early or consider public transport.

12
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.

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.

A patio offers a solid outdoor spot with a fire pit adding warmth and ambiance. Eating outside feels nice on a clear evening.

People are saying

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

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

"The patio here is great, especially with the fire pit."

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.

13
Hoggsbreath image 1
Sports bar

Small space with a tiny dance floor and great patio offers a friendly, fun atmosphere where people enjoy line dancing and games like pool and darts. The crowd mixes well, creating a mellow yet lively vibe with a variety of entertainment options downstairs. Cold beer and solid food choices add to the casual, social setting.

Cosmic bingo and Saturday bingo nights bring a ton of fun with an energetic atmosphere and great music. Line dancing on Friday nights and karaoke also add to the lively activities available.

A great patio offers a relaxed outdoor spot where kids and older patrons mingle easily. Below the patio, a fun game room adds extra entertainment.

People are saying

"This neighborhood bar has a really nice, friendly feel."

"The bingo here is really fun and has an energetic atmosphere."

"The patio is a great outdoor space, especially in the summer."

Good to know

1

Bingo events occur on Tuesdays and Saturdays, with a $20 entry fee per card.

2

Line dancing happens every Friday night at 8pm.

3

Reservations are recommended due to the popularity of events.

14
The Cherry Pit Bar & Grill image 1

Cozy bar and grill with a pet-friendly patio and charging stations at tables. Atmosphere shifts from chill and welcoming to rowdy at night with live DJs and raffles adding energy. Offers cold beer and tasty Bloody Marys alongside solid food options like burgers and chili.

A fun atmosphere thrives with friendly bartenders and staff hosting raffles and giveaways. Saturdays feature a DJ playing millennial jams, and watching Vikings games draws a lively, fun crowd.

A pet-friendly patio offers a great spot to enjoy drinks and dinner. Staff keep the area tidy and drinks topped up, making the outdoor seating more pleasant than inside.

People are saying

"The bar's Bloody Marys are definitely some of the best I've had."

"You can play electronic and pull tabs for some fun activities."

"The patio is beautiful and dog friendly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Karaoke nights are on Wednesdays and Sundays at 9:30 PM with food specials.

3

Free music video bingo takes place every Tuesday at 6:30 PM.

15
Wandering Leaf Brewing Company image 1

Brewery filled with living plants hanging and spread throughout the space creates a unique green vibe. Dog friendly environment with an amazing patio and plenty of games offers a relaxed, social atmosphere. Beers like Hazy IPA and sours stand out alongside food from local vendors.

Playful and creative brew names add a fun element to the atmosphere. Three pinball machines and a dog friendly environment make it lively and family friendly.

Spacious outdoor patio offers plenty of room and cool awnings for shade. Dogs are welcome both inside and on the dog friendly patio, making it a relaxed spot for pet owners.

People are saying

"I enjoyed their fantastic beer and friendly atmosphere."

"It's a bright, open space filled with plants."

"It's like a greenhouse with all the plants and fresh air."

Good to know

1

The brewery is dog friendly to well-behaved pets.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere during trivia nights.

3

Drag Bingo is free to play and happens on Sundays.

16
HmongTown Marketplace image 1
Asian grocery store

Spacious indoor and outdoor market offers colorful ethnic environment with spicy aromas filling the air. The place hosts a variety of vendors selling unique Asian foods, groceries, and live plants. The atmosphere feels like traveling to the Orient, with a warm and inviting outdoor farmers market.

A fun drink stall offers a huge menu to explore. The marketplace provides a lively spot to hang out and spend time with family and friends, making it a fun place to explore.

Outdoor market offers a warm and inviting space with fresh produce. Browsing during warmer months highlights the lively farmers market atmosphere.

People are saying

"I loved the food, especially the meat sticks and spring rolls."

"I found exploring the marketplace and trying the food to be a fun activity."

"The outdoor space is a warm, inviting farmer's market in the summer."

Good to know

1

Bring cash for vendors as many do not accept credit cards.

2

Parking is limited and can be a challenge during busy hours.

3

Expect a wide variety of Asian food and unique cultural items.

17
Highland Park Aquatic Center image 1

Outdoor aquatic facility offers Olympic-sized pool, diving boards, and water slides alongside areas for toddlers and kids. Atmosphere balances family-friendly fun with lap swimming sessions that follow distinct lane practices. Space includes grassy areas and ample seating, creating a relaxed environment without overcrowding.

Large pool with deep and shallow ends, a diving pool, and a slide offer varied fun activities. The spot suits families and provides a lively swim experience on hot days.

A 50-meter outdoor lap pool offers a solid spot for lap swimming. Plenty of rules shape the outdoor experience by the water.

People are saying

"It's a great place for family fun and swimming."

"It's so kid friendly with slides and toddler areas."

"I loved the outdoor lap pool for swimming laps."

Good to know

1

The hot shower water could cause burns, so be careful when showering.

2

Toddler time ends at 10:15 am, not 10:30 am as the website states.

3

Arriving at 10:30 am does not allow entry for toddler time.

18
The Midway Saloon image 1

Dive bar with an eccentric, nostalgic vibe and live music featuring covers across genres. Pool tables add to the chill atmosphere where locals gather. The place offers a huge whiskey list and well-regarded pizza and wings.

A chill spot with a decent environment for laughing and having fun. Nights often feature original music that adds to the lively vibe.

A newer outside patio offers space to hang out. The patio sits next to a bar area. A bouncer interacts directly with people on the patio.

People are saying

"The food here was surprisingly good and delicious."

"It's a chill place for having fun."

"I experienced the newer patio and bar area."

Good to know

1

Jazz performances happen every Wednesday night featuring local musicians.

2

The kitchen closes at 11 PM, so plan your food orders accordingly.

3

Parking is available in a limited lot behind the saloon.

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