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Local picks

Kid-friendly unique spots in Saint Paul

Somewhere genuinely different that keeps the kids engaged without relying on the usual play-center tropes.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Trapped Puzzle Rooms image 1
Trapped Puzzle Rooms image 2
Escape room center

Escape room center offers immersive themed rooms with multi-layered puzzles suitable for all ages. Spaces encourage collaboration and communication among groups, featuring family-friendly designs and interactive challenges. Party and arcade rooms provide additional entertainment options.

Rooms offer a beginner level designed for kids, making puzzles accessible and fun. Staff assist well with children, helping groups of various ages solve challenges within the time limit.

Intricate challenges and puzzles stand out with their unique and varied designs. Family ownership adds a personal touch to the enticing puzzle selection.

People are saying

"It's really Kid Friendly; the kids loved contributing to the puzzles."

"The puzzles are smart, fun, and challenging in the best way."

"The puzzles here are so creative and intricate."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure availability.

2

The escape rooms are suitable for ages 5 and up, making them family-friendly.

3

Expect to spend about 60 minutes in each escape room experience.

02
Rebe's play cafe image 1
Children's cafe

Big, open labyrinth of rooms filled with high-quality toys creates a child-centered, inclusive atmosphere. Friendly adults gather, fostering a community feel while kids play and socialize. Space supports both play and work with rooms for parents to focus as children explore.

Many activities keep kids busy and entertained. Adults can relax with coffee while kids play in a safe, supervised space. Birthday parties are easy to organize and fun for toddlers.

A coffee and play business shares space with a language school, creating a unique blend of activities. This setup stands out as a great unique space combining learning and leisure.

People are saying

"It's so kid friendly with a great play area and toys."

"I found the snacks and drinks here to be affordable."

"It's a really unique space, unlike anything else."

Good to know

1

Play is free at Rebe's Play Cafe, with only cafe items available for purchase.

2

Expect the cafe to get busy by 9 AM, especially on weekends.

3

There is plenty of parking available in the back of the cafe.

03
2 Scoops Ice Cream Eatery image 1

Red and white checkered decor creates a 50s diner vibe with indoor and outdoor seating including sidewalk tables. The atmosphere feels vibrant and cozy, filled with sunshine and a local neighborhood energy. Kids have a dedicated area with books, and waffle cones and bowls are made on site.

Staff handle groups of kids with ease and help them with their money. Ice cream flavors like Birthday Cake and chocolate are popular, and staff replace dropped cones. It works well as a meetup spot for parents and play dates.

Flavors stand out with unique combinations like exhausted parent and blackberry lemon alongside classics. Waffle cones add a nice touch to the robust, tasty ice cream.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is amazing and loaded with goodies."

"The staff here are super sweet and friendly, making it feel Kid Friendly."

"The ice cream flavors are unique and robustly delicious."

Good to know

1

The shop offers at least 18 different flavors of ice cream.

2

Prices are very reasonable for the ice cream servings.

3

Parking is easy at this neighborhood spot.

04
Karol Coffee Co. image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop offers quiet, kid-friendly atmosphere with a fenced-in outdoor play area and vintage interior design. Space includes multiple seating rooms and a large, shady outdoor yard with picnic tables. Friendly vibe attracts families and locals seeking a neighborhood-focused experience.

A fenced-in outdoor play area with limited gate access keeps kids safe while parents enjoy coffee. The space includes play equipment and feels very welcoming to families with toddlers and young children.

Espresso Mule stands out as a unique and delicious drink. The spot features tasteful decor and offers a variety of unique beverage options.

People are saying

"The coffee staff here is so friendly and welcoming."

"It's a great kid-friendly spot with a fenced-in patio and play area."

"I loved the unique beverage options, like the Espresso Mule."

Good to know

1

The shop frequently hosts pop-up events with local businesses.

2

Seating can be limited, especially during busy hours.

3

Breakfast sandwiches are around $10, which may seem pricey.

05
Micho love image 1
Ice cream shop

Spacious, bright shop with vibrant wall designs creates a fun atmosphere. Offers a wide selection of unique Latin American ice cream flavors including non-dairy options. The vibe is casual with friendly associates and a clean, spotless environment.

A wide variety of sorbets suits kids with dairy sensitivities. The strawberry crepes with Nutella and coconut sorbet stand out as favorites for children.

Offers a wide selection of unique Latin American flavors in homemade ice cream. The menu features many Mexican-inspired options that stand out for their distinct taste.

People are saying

"I loved their unique homemade ice cream flavors and creamy pistachio."

"The staff here is so friendly and kind, making it feel Kid Friendly."

"The ice cream flavors here are so unique and delicious."

Good to know

1

The shop offers a wide variety of unique Latin American flavors.

2

Prices at Micho Love are generally fair, with a total cost around $20 for two.

3

The place is very clean and maintains good hygiene standards.

06
PuzzleWorks Escape Co. image 1
Escape room center

Escape rooms feature immersive horror themes with spooky atmospheres and theatrical design that create a lifelike experience. Groups encounter unique puzzles requiring teamwork in settings like haunted museums and dungeons. Private rooms and detailed props enhance the engaging, exciting vibe throughout.

Escape rooms include kid-friendly puzzles that kids around age 11 can solve with some adult help. Game masters assist without giving away answers, creating a fun and manageable experience for groups of kids during events like birthday parties.

Rooms feature unique puzzles and creative storytelling that stand out from typical escape experiences. The design includes many distinctive elements requiring teamwork and offering surprising endings.

People are saying

"The game masters here offer fun activities with just enough hints."

"The puzzles here are unique and really fun."

"The game masters here are awesome and helpful with kids."

Good to know

1

PuzzleWorks offers a variety of themed escape rooms suitable for all ages.

2

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure availability.

3

The escape rooms are designed for groups of 2 to 8 players.

07
Hail Mary Piercing image 1
Body piercing shop

Bright, clean studio with pink decor and comfy sofas creates a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere that emphasizes bodily consent and supports LGBTQ+ community. Staff work together with open energy, making the space feel safe and kind. Walk-in only policy and local art displays add to the creative, friendly vibe.

Piercers connect well with kids, explaining the process clearly and addressing them directly. Staff show professional kindness, making ear piercing a smooth experience for children as young as six.

Creative designs stand out here, with staff welcoming unique requests. Some anatomy challenges affect piercings, showing care for safety over fitting every request.

People are saying

"The staff made me feel so comfortable and at ease."

"Hannah's unique skill and friendly personality make you feel comfortable."

"It's so Kid Friendly; Hannah makes you feel comfortable and well cared for."

Good to know

1

Hail Mary Piercing only accepts walk-in customers.

2

They need two forms of ID for minors.

3

They only take cash or Venmo.

08
Brake Bread image 1

Bus seating area offers a unique cozy spot with heating and AC, creating a fun and inviting atmosphere for conversation and play. Patio seating complements the space, which feels joyful and community-focused. Lines form early, reflecting its popular reputation for exceptional bread and pastries.

A cozy school bus seating area offers a fun spot for kids to play or enjoy a snack. Weekend mornings feature a relaxed vibe where kids can crush a croissant and share conversation.

Bus seating features a unique design that makes hanging out fun. The bakery offers a fantastic selection in a shop with a distinct vibe.

People are saying

"I found the bread here to be fresh and delicious."

"The bus seating area is a fun, cozy spot for kids."

"The unique bus seating area is really fun to hang out in."

Good to know

1

The shop is take-out only with a walk-up window for ordering.

2

Expect to wait in line, especially on Saturday mornings.

3

All items go fast, so consider ordering ahead.

09
Life Juices Super Food Bar image 1

Bright space with plant-based menu and community-oriented vibe offers fun music that energizes the atmosphere. Limited seating focuses attention on quick, healthy treats like vegan tacos and smoothie bowls. Pricing leans higher, reflecting the quality and unique flavors.

Kids enjoy the loon smoothie bowl and the mango ice cream options. The menu offers treats that kids often want to keep for later.

Smoothies stand out as unique and delicious. The place has a super unique atmosphere with vibing music that hits right when you walk in.

People are saying

"You'll have a great time trying this Mexican food!"

"It's so kid friendly, my kids loved every bite."

"I thought this was the best smoothie place I'd ever been to."

Good to know

1

Prices for juices are around $9, smoothies $8, and tacos $5.

2

Limited seating is available, with only one table for customers.

3

Street parking is convenient along Lexington, with shared parking available.

10
Mischief Toy Store image 1

Unique toy store set in a cozy old house offers a colorful, welcoming atmosphere with a large, thoughtfully curated selection of toys, games, and gifts for all ages. The space feels quiet and inviting, fostering a strong sense of community support and inclusion.

A large selection of fun gifts for kids of all ages fills the shelves. The store welcomes children warmly and offers toys that engage both young kids and adults alike.

An old house filled with retro and nostalgic toys creates a space full of unique personality. The selection includes toys, books, stickers, slime, games, and craft kits not found in big box stores.

People are saying

"This place is so Kid Friendly, with amazing toys and games for all ages."

"This Local Spot has an amazing selection of toys, games, and puzzles."

"It's a unique toy store with a great variety of games and books."

Good to know

1

Mischief Toy Store offers a unique selection of toys, games, and craft kits.

2

Expect a variety of items for all ages, including retro and nostalgic toys.

3

The store features a large selection of board games for casual and hardcore players.

11
Ax-Man Surplus Stores image 1

Surplus store with an eclectic mix of old and new items, including electronics, crafts, and unusual supplies. Atmosphere is quirky and wacky, enhanced by off-key children's recital music and fun decor. Large space invites long browsing sessions to discover unique, affordable treasures.

Unique craft supplies and costumes make it easy to find items for kids' projects and events. Kids can discover interesting things like a genuine WWI helmet, adding to the fun experience.

Shelves hold a mix of random, slightly weird items and practical supplies like masking tape. Crafts, homemade balms, and oils sit alongside unique finds not available on Amazon, all at good prices.

People are saying

"It's a cool store with tons of random, interesting stuff."

"You can find cool costumes and genuine WWI helmets here for kids."

"I found so many unique and practical items here."

Good to know

1

The store has no air-conditioning, so dress accordingly.

2

Expect to find a wide variety of unusual items, from electronics to crafts.

3

Prices range from $4 to $9+ for mismatched casters of various sizes.

12
Little Brazil MN Market & Cafe image 1

Cafe combines authentic Brazilian style with a small grocery market offering Brazilian imports and foods hard to find elsewhere. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, vibrant with colorful decor and plenty of seating both indoors and on a spacious patio. TVs show Brazilian football, creating a lively spot for groups and casual gatherings.

A children's play area sits in a cozy corner with children's books and a reading section for kids. It offers a quiet spot for parents to work while kids stay entertained.

Unique spots like this offer a distinctive selection of groceries alongside options for food and coffee. The variety stands out compared to typical stores.

People are saying

"The food at this grocery store is amazing, especially the chicken sandwich."

"The empanadas and sandwiches here are surprisingly light and tasty."

"I loved the unique selection of groceries and delicious food."

Good to know

1

On Saturdays, they have a special feijoada available.

2

The cheese bread costs only $1.50 each.

3

Food options are available for under $10.

13
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.

Enough space exists to set up a pack and play for kids to play in. Bathrooms stay clean and accessible for families with children. Staff enforce rules strictly, with no exceptions for expired IDs.

Many green plants hang and spread throughout the space, creating a warm and attractive atmosphere. The brewery offers a great selection of unique beers and draws a distinct crowd.

People are saying

"I enjoyed their fantastic beer and friendly atmosphere."

"It's so unique how dog friendly this place is."

"It's really Kid Friendly, with clean bathrooms and plenty of room."

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.

14
Treats Cereal Bar & Boba image 1

Ice cream shop blends cereal into ice cream with unique flavors and fresh handmade pearls. Space offers indoor and outdoor seating in a cozy, trendy atmosphere with calming music and bright neon accents. Customers enjoy a calm vibe suitable for small dates and casual visits.

Fun treats like a monster waffle banana Nutella sundae and a mango smoothie keep kids happy. Ice cream and birthday surprises add to the kid-friendly vibe.

Offers unique flavors and varieties of milk tea. You can buy half gallons of your favorite milk tea, which is a trendy feature.

People are saying

"I thought the brown sugar boba ice cream was amazing."

"I thought the smoothies were delicious and unique."

"The strawberry matcha boba here is unique and delicious."

Good to know

1

They offer a variety of options including boba tea, ice cream, and waffles.

2

The prices are high, with two items costing around $20.

3

They make their boba pearls fresh by hand.

15
The Lodge of Lazarus Crowe image 1
Escape room center

Escape room center set in a former church with Addams Family-esque decor and immersive, interconnected spaces that feel like stepping into another world. Atmosphere blends mystery and warmth, with corridors filled with artwork, artifacts, and interactive elements. Includes a full restaurant and cocktail lounge offering themed drinks and a unique playable common area.

Escape rooms offer a challenging experience suitable for kids and adults. The Apothecary Room game requires teamwork and problem-solving, with puzzles that can be solved just in time.

Escape rooms offer a truly unique and immersive adventure with very high production value. The facility's vibey and distinctive interior design, once a mortuary, adds to the cool and unique concept.

People are saying

"I found these escape rooms to be a unique and fabulous experience."

"The escape rooms here are a truly unique and well-curated experience."

"It's a cool, creepy, and immersive adventure that kids will love."

Good to know

1

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

2

Special events are hosted regularly, check the schedule for details.

3

Reservations are recommended for escape room experiences, especially on weekends.

16
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.

Plenty of activities for kids and free ID bracelets for children and strollers make it easy to navigate. The building stays well air conditioned and offers good information to keep kids engaged.

Unique foods push the boundaries of traditional fair cuisine and can't be found elsewhere. The event blends traditional county fair nostalgia with a dystopian atmosphere, featuring one-of-a-kind art, sizzling food stands, live music, and a lively crowd.

People are saying

"The food options here are diverse and plentiful."

"It's so fun bringing my kids here to make new memories."

"The immersive set design created an alternate reality with unique food."

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.

17
Wedding Shoppe, Inc. image 1

Bridal shop inside a remodeled Edwardian house offers private fitting rooms with floor-length mirrors and cozy, home-like atmosphere. Bright, welcoming spaces create a calm, pressure-free environment where groups can enjoy privacy and comfort. Multiple rooms allow for a tailored, intimate experience away from distractions.

Staff spend time with kids and offer many options to make them feel special. Measurements for children can be inaccurate, leading to sizing issues with dresses.

Shopping offers a unique and special atmosphere with talented consultants guiding guests. Dresses stand out as affordable yet distinctive compared to other stores.

People are saying

"The staff made me feel so comfortable and at ease."

"I found my unique dress because they listened and took a chance."

"It's so kid friendly; they made my daughter feel like a princess."

Good to know

1

Schedule a weeknight appointment for a more relaxed shopping experience.

2

Make an appointment to ensure personalized service during your visit.

3

The shop is known for being queer and trans friendly.

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Saint Paul, Minnesota

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