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AAlphabet to Remember
You’ve heard it before: A is for apple. B is for ball. But this issue of Mpls.St.Paul Jr. is not your average alphabet. In this magazine—made just for you, a Minnesota kid—we’ve traveled all over the state to bring you a complete lineup of exciting stuff to do and even cooler stuff to see! We explore everything from the Amazing to the Zany with a whole lot of Cool, Funky, Surprising, Unusual, and Wacky in between. You might wonder how we found such rad things for every letter. Q? U? X?! We’ll let you in on a little secret: The hard part wasn’t finding awesome adventures—the hard part was narrowing the list down to fit them all into just one magazine! The pros at Explore Minnesota helped us by sharing some of their expertise, and we even received a couple of tips from kids!
We have silly expeditions and quirky MN lingo. We cycle the streets and find picturesque places to stop and smell the roses. We roam our amazing twin towns, explore wilderness, and travel to the far corners of our state for some hidden secrets.
We cover it all, from A to Z, and every bit of it is Fun made just for Y O U!
W IS FOR THE WORLD WIDE WEB
And at mspmag.com, you’ll find all the awesome things we couldn’t fit in this magazine! For family-fun ideas in the Twin Cities, visit mspmag.com/ kids-and-family.
Emily Sefton EDITOR
Kim Jackson ART DIRECTOR
Ruthie Nelson COPY EDITOR
Caitlin Abrams PHOTOGRAPHER
Kevin Cannon ILLUSTRATOR
Mpls.St.Paul Jr. is published by Mpls.St.Paul Magazine
Jayne Haugen Olson EDITOR IN CHIEF
Shelly Crowley PUBLISHER
Michael Norseng CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Rebecca Rowland EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Irene Peterson VICE PRESIDENT, STRATEGIC GROWTH
Lisa Rounds EDITORIAL DIRECTOR, BRANDED CONTENT
Madeline Cisneros, Alexandra Tostrud, Natasha Delion EDITORIAL INTERNS
953 Westgate Dr., Suite 107
St. Paul, MN 55114
612-339-7571
mspmag.com
Volume 6 | Copyright 2025
RANKED PRIVATE
SCHOOL IN MINNESOTA ON NICHE
MPA FAMILIES
HAIL FROM
79 DIFFERENT ZIP CODES
7:1 STUDENT TEACHER RATIO
COLLABORATIVE, ÇAČ ÝÇ EXPERIENTIAL
LEARNING
100% COLLEGE PREPARATORY
PRIVATE ĀĄK¶ ON ONE CAMPUS
RIGOR WITH MEANING AND PURPOSE
100+ ATHLETIC TEAMS AND CLUBS
GUIDE TO A UPERSIZE MN FUN! ENDLESS A-Z S
• You may know your ABCs, but this is not your typical alphabet. Journey across our great state and discover all the fun, funky, silly, and smart things that Minnesota kids can do—in alphabetical order! Head north for starry nights and a slew of wacky wildlife excursions before jaunting south for some high-flying fun and a couple of really big ideas. Double down on dinos, cozy up with local lit, and visit some zany zoos. Your Minnesota ABCs will soon rank as your favorite guide to all things fun, so what are you waiting for? Won’t you read along with us?
AA Is for Aurora Borealis
A perk of living in the North Star State is easier access to the northern lights, otherwise known as aurora borealis. This colorful light show in the sky gets more visible the farther north you go, so Voyageurs National Park, near Canada, is a primo place to view the world wonder. Plus, it’s a certified International Dark Sky Park, so light pollution doesn’t spoil the show. 360 Hwy. 11 E., International Falls, 218-283-6600, nps.gov
Bound for Greatness
Row, row, row your boat right on over to the B o u n
Boundary Waters Canoe
A r e a Wi l d e r n e s s Area Wilderness, where there are more than 1,000 lakes, 2,000 campsites, and 1,500 miles of canoe routes just waiting for a merrily good time. Planning makes perfect when it comes to this camping extravaganza. Ask your parents to secure a permit, then help compile a checklist of the gear you’ll need from a local outfitter. Everything from canoes to tents can be rented, but the fixings to make s’mores are on you, kid. bwca.com
C Is for Cycling the Cities
DID YOU KNOW THAT MINNEAPOLIS IS THE MOST BIKEABLE CITY IN AMERICA?
THAT MAKES US THE BIKING GOAT. SPIN AROUND OUR WINNING CITY BEFORE MOVING ON TO SOME OF OUR STATE’S BEST (AND MOST BEAUTIFUL) TRAILS.
If Minneapolis is the Oz of the biking world, then the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway is its yellow brick road. The 55 miles of trail take you through the heart of the city. It rolls around Bde Maka Ska, Lake of the Isles, and Lake Harriet, yet you might also find yourself over by the Mississippi River or Theodore Wirth Park. There’s plenty to see and even more to do, but consider yourself warned: It’s as pop-u-lar as Glinda, so it can also get crowded. minneapolis parks.org
Over the hills and through the woods, to the Gateway State Trail
you’ll go! Experience all manner of landscape on this track, which runs from St. Paul to Stillwater. There’s city living, lakes, wetlands, and fields, so it’s a topnotch spot for seeing all kinds of creatures. It’s also the perfect path for a rousing game of I Spy while you ride. dnr.state.mn.us
If you’re new to the whole mountain biking thing, you might want to start at Lebanon Hills Regional Park in Eagan before cruising into the great unknown of northern Minnesota. The Blue Trail Loop is roughly 2.5 miles long, so if biking on a dirt road is not for you, it
won’t be too hard to find your way back home. co.dakota. mn.us
Any Minnesotan can tell you that Paul Bunyan is the state’s favorite lumberjack. He was also a seriously big dude. So, it’s no surprise that the route boasting his name is the longest continuously paved rail-trail in the country. Clocking in at 115 miles, the Paul Bunyan State Trail runs from Brainerd to Bemidji. A stop at the Pine River Trailhead allows you to step into Bunyan’s baby shoes, which supposedly grew into some seriously big boots. Legend has it that Lake Bemidji, another stop on the trail, grew out of one of Bunyan’s monstrous footprints. Whether you tackle a tiny part of the path or journey across the state, one thing is certain: Giant amounts of fun await! dnr.state.mn.us
You’ll be turning red like Mei when you hit the Cuyuna Lakes Mountain Bike Trails in Ironton. The red-dirt pathways run through Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, which is filled with A-plus views and enough animals to make Zootopia look boring. Ready yourself for some pretty tough tracks, however. Because the paths aren’t paved, there are twists, turns, and unexpected surprises along the way. cuyunalakesmtb.com
Double Down on Dinosaurs
STOMP YOUR WAY AROUND THE CITIES AND SEE ALL THE BIG WAYS YOU AND SOME DINOSAUR PALS CAN HAVE A ROARING GOOD TIME.
What do you know about a massospondylus—other than it’s a mouthful? The Science Museum of Minnesota has dino bones and all kinds of factoids about this prehistoric predator. While you’re there, hit the Sportsology exhibit and race a T. rex. 120 Kellogg Blvd. W., St. Paul, 651-2219444, new.smm.org
Make your world a Jurassic one at Elm Creek Park Reserve This dino-mite playground has faux bones buried in the sandbox and a giant dino skeleton for climbing. For a spot of smarts, pop into the nearby nature center before cooling off at the swim pond. 12400 James Deane Pkwy., Maple Grove, 763-694-7894, threeriversparks.org
Dinosaur bones and glowin-the-dark rock—talk about a dynamic duo! See both at Raptor Ridge Museum in Spicer. The privately owned facility is a treasure trove of natural history discoveries; just make sure to let the museum know you’re coming. 12050 Co. Rd. 40 NE, Spicer, 320-295-3838, willmarlakesarea.com
Practice being a paleontologist at the Touch and See Lab at the Bell Museum. You may not be digging up dinos, but you’ll learn the art of searching for and studying fossils. 2088 Larpenteur Ave. W., St. Paul, 612-626-9660, bellmuseum.umn.edu
A local brainiac uncovered fossils of a giant prehistoric snake called the Titanoboa. Fortunately, the sea creature is extinct, but a friendlier version of a sea serpent is on display at Crosby Memorial Park. Wave hello to the 20-foot statue before hitting the beach. 2 SW 2nd St., Crosby, 218546-5021, cityofcrosby.com
We know dragons aren’t dinosaurs, but the large tails, scaly skin, and all-around hugeness make dragons a fictional sidekick to our prehistoric friends. See what other dinosaur-like characteristics adorn the jolly green dragon that snakes around the Lego Store at the Mall of America. MOA, 952266-7989, lego.com
Dinosaurs roamed our lands roughly 65 million years ago, but just 10 years ago, a researcher found a velociraptorlike claw in northern Minnesota. Put your eagle eyes to the test and hunt for pelecypods (clams) and other fossils at Shadow Falls Park. 30 N. Mississippi River Blvd., St. Paul, 651-266-6400, stpaul.gov
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E Is for Exploration
There’s a journey for everyone—you just need to know where to look!
Every explorer needs to see the Aerial Lift Bridge
It certainly is a sight to behold as the center of the bridge moves up and down, allowing large ships to pass through. You can listen for the lift: Ships—and the bridge—use a horn sequence to communicate! 601 Lake Ave. S., Duluth, dot.state. mn.us
Once upon a time, trains rolled around the Midwest on the Chicago Great Western Railway. Now that path is home to the Cannon Valley Trail, which is perfect for hiking, biking, skating, and maybe the occasional “choo-choo” whoop. 500 W. Main St., Cannon Falls, cannonvalleytrail.com
Go beyond your standard Lego sets and hit up Brickmania. The Minneapolis location displays various creations that show how wonderful the world of brick building can be, and it holds the largest collection of past and present Brickmania prototypes. You’ll learn as you look, and by the time you’re done, you’ll be a brick-building boss who’s more revered than Boss Baby! 1618 Central Ave. NE, Mpls., brickmania. com
The giant spoon and cherry is an iconic Minnesota landmark, but have you ever actually seen it up close? The Walker Art Center has scavenger hunts for the Sculpture Garden located online, so download a key before you go! You’ll grow smarter with every answered riddle. And you’ll leave knowing the next time you see the big blue rooster, you can say, “Been there, done that.” 725 Vineland Pl., Mpls., 612-3757600, walkerart.org
Elsa’s powers may have protected Arendelle after the dam was destroyed in Frozen 2, but unfortunately, Elsa wasn’t around in 1909 when a large concrete dam collapsed in Minnesota after a flood. See if this peculiar site will show itself on a hike alongside the Otter Tail River. 600 Broken Down Dam Rd., Fergus Falls, ottertaillakescountry.com
If you’re not familiar with terms like belay and bouldering, take yourself to new heights at Vertical Endeavors. The indoor climbing structure has challenges for all ages, so the whole family can fly. Several metro locations, verticalendeavors. com
Summer nights are made for movies in the park. The Minneapolis Institute of Art features flicks on a big inflatable screen in Mia’s Target Park. These special evenings have art-making opportunities and food trucks, but consider yourself warned: The sunset start time makes it beyond the bedtimes of tinier tykes. 2400 3rd Ave. S., Mpls., 888-642-2787, new.artsmia.org
It’s our very own version of Candy Land, only instead of getting lost in the Lollipop Woods, you get to take all kinds of candy home! Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store is an emporium of sweets, both retro and relevant, so mom and dad might find a little something from their childhoods that hits their sweet spots, too. Bonus points if you convince them to play “I Want Candy” on the drive. 20430 Johnson Memorial Dr., Jordan, 952-492-6380, minnesotaslargestcandystore. com
Dorothy may have thought there was no place like home in The Wizard of Oz, but the actress who played Dorothy had her real home in northern Minnesota. Learn about her life at the Judy Garland Museum—and be sure to ask about the mystery of the missing ruby slippers. It’s a case straight out of The InBESTigators. 2727 Pokegama Ave. S., Grand Rapids, 218-327-9276, judygarlandmuseum.com
Build your brain a little differently at STEMfocused museum The Works Explore how engineers from various cultures complete specific tasks at the Carry a Load exhibit, which was created with partners from local Dakota, Ojibwe, Hmong, Mexican, and Somali communities. Make your world a little bigger, and things around you are bound to get a whole lot brighter. 9740 Grand Ave. S., Bloomington, 952-888-4262, theworks.org
Snoopy, Linus, and Charlie Brown are all waiting for you at Landmark Plaza. Sit alongside the famous cartoon characters, who were created by a local artist and inspired some of your favorite books—namely, the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series! 379 St. Peter St., St. Paul, 651266-6400, stpaul. gov
This city was once known as the “Flour Milling Capital W H A
T ’S YO U R
F O O D IQ?
Take a bite out of this quiz and see if your state smarts reach super-foodie status.
3
Lutefisk and gravlax aren’t just tongue twisters, they’re Scandinavian dishes (famous in Minnesota) made from this animal.
4
1
It grows in water, is actually grass, and is our state grain.
2
Name the type of tasty red fruit that U of M brainiacs created by crossing Honeygold and Macoun apples.
5 A third-grade class lobbied for this to become the official muffin of Minnesota.
9
This fictional character got her start in a Minnesota kitchen and was dubbed the “First Lady of Food” in 1945.
6
This former president noshed on a Jucy Lucy at Matt’s Bar.
8
What animal does a famous coffee chain based in Brooklyn Center have in common with Santa Claus?
10
This specific pan from Minnesota creates an oh-so-sweet, donut-like cake.
7
The city of Austin is famous for selling canned meat. There’s even a museum celebrating this
Family Fun at the Fair
EVERYONE HAS A PLAN FOR THE STATE FAIR , SO WHY SHOULDN’T YOU?
PUT THESE KID-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES AT THE TOP OF YOUR LIST.
The littler you are, the bigger the fun at the Kidway. On a hot day, there’s nothing cooler than the kiddie bumper boats, while the mini swings and the Tilt-A-Whirl are a dizzying good time. See how loud you can scream on the kid-size roller coaster before dancing your way through the rolling barrel in the fun house!
Old MacDonald loved his farm so much he wrote a song about it. See if life as a farmer suits you at the Kemps Little Farm Hands exhibit, where helpers experience the whole agricultural process! You can collect items from the farm before bringing them to “market.” Then use your “earnings” on real products. Just don’t forget to sing “E-I-E-I-O” as you work.
You know how the very hungry caterpillar becomes a beautiful butterfly at the end of the book? There are thousands of former caterpillars that call the Butterfly House home, so step into this magical world of whimsy and take in the awesomeness that is being completely surrounded by winged beauties. You probably won’t make it out of there without at least one butterfly kiss, so pucker up!
If there’s one thing you absolutely need to do at the State Fair, it’s taste the food. There are thousands of finger-lickin’ treats; the trick is finding the right one (or two). Whether you nab a cookie from the oh-sodelicious Sweet Martha’s Cookie Jar or stop at the deep-fried candy bar booth (we’re partial to the Oreos), our State Fair is positively famous for its food. Come hungry, but don’t overdo it. Sugar crashes are real and no fun for your parents.
Taylor Swift had her Eras Tour. We have our Giant Sing Along Ready your vocal cords for this unique experience where fairgoers get to connect over the shared experience of crooning their hearts out! A field of microphones and a large screen with lyrics await your musical prowess.
Spread the word or try making one up. Guests of the Alphabet Forest are encouraged to add their own words to the forest’s Fair Dictionary, so your mark will forever be left at the fair! Located in Baldwin Park, this shady retreat makes it easy to take a beat and regroup. Once you’re ready to hit the pavement, take one of the many alphabet activities for between rides and cookies!
“The Giant Slide is my favorite part of the fair! I love how fast it goes—my stomach drops just a little bit. It may look scary, but it’s not! I smile the whole time!”
–Elizabeth, 12
Going Off the Grid
If Mother Nature had her favorites, Dorothy Molter would be at the top of her list. The pioneering woman was one of the last full-time residents of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, living completely off Lake. When she died in 1986, the town of Ely came together to preserve her legacy and honor her love of the Northwoods by creating the log cabins show what Dorothy’s life was like without electricity, running water, and (gasp) cell phones.
...And Other Gardens We
MAKE LIKE A TREE AND LEAVE YOUR PLAYGROUND ROUTINE FOR ONE OF THESE OUTDOOR
RETREATS!
Fairies are everywhere; you just need to know where to look. Follow the glitter beyond the bridge on the northwest side of Arden Park. A fairy garden is tucked into the woods, surrounded by smiling trees and glimmering branches. Come prepared with a note—you never know; the fairy just might write back.
5230 Minnehaha Blvd., Edina, edinamn.gov
If Roz from The Wild Robot were
Landscape
Arboretum, she’d feel right at home. The 1,200-acre property is brimming with different plants, trees, blooms, and terrains. Uncover secrets in one of the 28 specialty gardens, or go on a scavenger hunt for Minnesota’s state flower. (Hint: It’s the lady’s slipper!)
3675 Arboretum Dr., Chaska, 612-6242200, arb.umn.edu
The wise and wonderful Bandit from Bluey once said, “Flowers may bloom again, but a person never has the chance to be young again.” Put your youthful energy to good use with a trip to the sunflower field at Fresh Acres Farm. You can frolic
H IS FOR HOTDISH
Kids have their own preppy lingo. So do Minnesotans. Learn the local language and you will absolutely slay all day.
HOTDISH
72nd St., Monticello, 763-290-0156, freshacresmn.com
Gardens do so much more than grow pretty flowers. The St. Paul-Changsha China Friendship Garden honors our
Teens might make up their own words—we’re looking at you, skibidi—but here in Minnesota, we make up our own casseroles! The hotdish is a smorgasbord of goodies that is specific to the North Star State. It has a starch, protein, vegetable, and yummy sauce. It’s baked in a single dish, and it’s also totally delish.
UFF DA
Why say “whoops” when you can say “uff da!”? The Scandinavian American phrase is best when you’re trying to express dismay, relief, or annoyance. Test it out on your sibs and see how they react.
YOU BETCHA
relationship with China, all while creating a quiet place to reflect on cultural diversities in our cities. Share kindness and smiles with other park goers at the Xiang Jiang Pavilion or the Hmong Heritage Wall—they’re languages everyone can understand. 1624 Phalen Dr., St. Paul, 763-913-4438, mnchinagarden.org
There’s agreeable, and then there’s the Minnesotan way to say OK. If you’re looking to express assurance or excitement or simply agree, a “you betcha” just hits different.
DONTCHA KNOW
Its literal translation is “don’t you know,” but it’s really more like a casual exclamation at the end of a sentence. For example: “That ’fit is fire, dontcha know.”
DUCK, DUCK, GRAY DUCK
You’ve played it since you were a kid, but did you know that Minnesotans are the only ones who call out a gray duck? The whole rest of the world plays Duck, Duck, Goose. Our minds were blown, too.
I Is for Ice Cream, Obviously
HERE’S THE SCOOP ON THE TASTIEST PLACES FOR ICE CREAM, SUNDAES, SPRINKLES, SAMMIES, AND ANYTHING ELSE THAT’S COLD AND CREAMY .
1. FrioFrio: If you’re looking for a sweet place to get a frozen treat, this is it. There are no boring flavors from the master chef who mans the scoop. Try an ice cream sammie or the Piñata Cake Batter—it’s got gummy bears and sprinkles, which is pretty YummyYummy to us. 8100 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, friofriomn.com 2. Grand Ole Creamery: We scream, you scream, we all scream for Grand Ole Creamery! The St. Paul staple is a must on everyone’s ice cream bucket list—and Black Hills Gold (with its caramel ice cream, crushed cookies, and praline pecans) is what makes our shrieks of joy the loudest. 750 Grand Ave., St. Paul, 651-293-1655; 4737 Cedar Ave. S., Mpls., 612-722-2261, grandolecreamery.com 3. Fletcher’s Ice Cream and Cafe: The mint ice cream with homemade rainbow cake, mini M&M’s, and white chocolate bark is beyond mouthwatering—it’ll make you drool. 306 Hennepin Ave. E., Mpls., 612-751-1739, fletchersicecream.com 4. Selma’s Ice Cream Parlour: There’s a lot to like about this Afton ice cream parlor. We heart its status as Minnesota’s oldest ice cream parlor, and we seriously adore the Heaps of Love ice cream. It’s got Oreos, brownies, cookie dough, pecans, caramel, and chocolate. 3419 St. Croix Tr. S., Afton, 651-436-5131, selmasicecream.square.site 5. Pumphouse Creamery: The fact that this ice cream is made from scratch with fresh ingredients is something your parents will appreciate. The explosion of flavors that will envelop your taste buds is yours to enjoy. 4754 Chicago Ave., Mpls., 612-825-2021, pumphouse-creamery.com 6. Love Creamery: They say anything done with love is done well. So it makes perfect sense that the ice cream at this Duluth creamery is more than a little yum-tastic. Banana Chip with PB Ripple is the ideal blend of fruity and sweet; it’s so tasty, you just might fall in love. 366 Lake Ave. S., Duluth, 218-576-5220; 1908 W. Superior St., Duluth, 218-576-5639, lovecreamery.com
•J • Jump for Joy at Every Age!
We sure do have a lot of lakes! Bounce on over to the one that’s right for you.
Ages 6-7
Don’t stare at the edge of the water like a young Moana. At Wayzata Beach , you won’t be able to stop yourself from jumping right in! The H-shaped swimming structure allows you to access the water from all angles while your parents relax in the nearby Adirondack chairs. 220 Grove Ln. E., Wayzata, wayzata.org
Ages 5 and under
Even the littlest among us can live the lake life! Parents will breathe easy when youngins dip their toes at Lake Johanna Beach in Tony Schmidt Regional Park. The swim area is relatively shallow, and lifeguards are on duty. Plus, there’s a large playground for waterlogged tykes who need a break. 3500 Lake Johanna Blvd., Arden Hills, ramseycounty.us
Ages 8-9
Adventure awaits on the Minnehaha Creek . Grab your tube and jump in near Wooddale Avenue in Edina for a lazy fl oat down the river. If you pop in west of Wooddale Avenue, you may experience a rush of adrenaline as you ride the rapids. East of Wooddale, it’s smooth sailing! minneapolisparks.org
Ages 12-13
Quarry Park is probably the coolest spot in the state for swimming. Don’t believe us? Just check out this picture! The former mine has 20 quarries that are now fi lled with water, and there are two spots that are specifi cally geared toward swimming. Be like Buzz Lightyear and take fl ight from the high rock formations in Quarry #2. You may not make it to infi nity, but you’ll certainly fall with style. 1802 Co. Rd. 137, Waite Park, stearnscountymn.gov
Ages 10-11
It’s not every day you see a diving board in a lake, but that’s precisely what you’ll fi nd at Shady Oak Beach . Summon all your courage and tackle the high dive. Afterward, you can reward your bravery with a treat from the nearby concession stand. 5200 Shady Oak Rd., Minnetonka, 952-908-7083, minnetonkamn.gov
Ages 14 and up
Once you get your toes wet in Duluth, you’ll hole-heartedly agree that the swimming hole at Lester Park is rockin’. For a tamer way to take a fl oat, stay near “the shallows” at the east branch of the Lester River. “The deeps” is an epic yet dangerous spot that teens love. Proceed with caution, however, and don’t jump from the highest point. The risk isn’t worth the rush. 61st Ave. E. and Superior St., Duluth, duluthmn.gov
Rock out!
Paint a rock with a kind message and add it to a local rock garden. Need inspiration? The Colfax Kindness Garden (@colfaxkindnessgarden) in the Kenny neighborhood and the Anoka Kindness Rock Garden (anokakindnessrockgarden.com) are great places to start.
Collect old kicks and donate them to Soles 4 Souls. soles4souls.org Hold the door open for someone.
Host a lemonade stand with help from the pros at Alex’s Lemonade Stand. Part of the proceeds go toward fighting childhood cancer. alexslemonade.org
Build snack kits for unhoused children helped through Avivo. avivomn.org
Color a picture for our troops and include a note of thanks. You can drop off your masterpiece at Cheap Skate in Coon Rapids. 3075 Coon Rapids Blvd., 763-427-8980, amillionthanks.org
Show off your skills!
Kids 8 and up can help baseball players in the Miracle League at the YMCA. duluthymca.org
Bingo!
Plan an afternoon of games with seniors in your community. eastsideelders.org
Spreading Kindness
GO BEYOND MINNESOTA NICE! HERE ARE WAYS TO DO GOOD DEEDS AND SPREAD CHEER .
Be a sous-chef at Open Arms and prep meals going to critically ill Minnesotans and their families. openarmsmn.org
Done with your Legos? Box ’em up so someone else can give them a try. brickrecycler.com
Snuggle a puppy as a puppy party volunteer with The Bond Between. 5959 Baker Rd., Minnetonka, thebondbetween.org
Plan a backpack build to assemble backpacks with essential supplies for kids who need them. kinf.org
Bake a treat and share it with your neighbor!
Legendary Local Lit
YOU CAN NEVER BE TOO EAGER TO READ. TAKE A PAGE OUT OF CURIOUS GEORGE'S BOOK AND EXPLORE THESE NOVEL ADVENTURES THAT TIE TO HOME.
New things can be scary, but local authorillustrator Cori Doerrfeld uses a tiny sea turtle in Nellie’s Big Splash to show that pushing past your fears can result in some pretty great things. Available at Red Balloon Bookshop, 891 Grand Ave., St. Paul, redballoonbookshop.com
Let your imagination run wild as you page through One Spring Up North, which is a wordless tome about springtime in the Boundary Waters. Authorillustrator John Owens intentionally skips words in his BWCA books about the seasons—this is the third in a series of four—because he wants readers to invent their own plot. upress.umn.edu
It may be an oldie, but it sure is a goodie. Millions of Cats by Wanda Gág has been around for nearly 100 years, and surprisingly it’s one of only a few picture books to ever win a Newbery Honor (that’s a pretty big deal in the world of children’s lit). Gág, who was born in New Ulm, pioneered the act of splaying illustrations across two pages of a book, permanently changing picture books for the better. wandagaghouse.org
Travel all the way to Italy with local author Ursula Murray Husted in Botticelli’s Apprentice. The graphic novel for 8-to-12-yearolds tells the tale of a talented young artist who must stand up for herself and her work when someone else threatens to take credit for it. harpercollins.com
It’s a prime rhyme at bedtime with A Bear, a Bee, and a Honey Tree by Daniel Bernstrom. Journey with a fuzzy friend as he takes on a swarm of buzzing bees in this energetic picture book, written by a local author. It’s the bee’s knees! danielbernstrom.com
Sometimes the best way to navigate tricky emotions is to write about them. Kao Kalia Yang came to Minnesota from a refugee camp in Thailand when she was 6 years old. Her book, The Diamond Explorer, shares the journey of a Hmong American boy who struggles to find his place in the world. Available at Wild Rumpus, 2720 W. 43rd St., Mpls., 612-920-5005, wildrumpusbooks.com
Meet Me Halfway is a modern-day The Parent Trap about a girl who moves to California from Minnesota and happens upon a secret sister. It may not have the shnazzy handshake of The Parent Trap, but it’s bound to have some recognizable references since the author, Anika Fajardo, was raised in Minnesota. anikafajardo.com
Is there a better combo than pizza, tacos, and graphic novels? We think not. Local author Stephen Shaskan combined three of our favorite things to make the Pizza and Taco series for young readers. There are nine books in the series; try one or devour them all! stephenshaskan.com
L O O K I E , L O O K I E
In the Land of 10,000 Lakes, you’re bound to find some pretty unique names. See if you can seek out some of our favorite watering holes in the search below!
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MINNESOTA L A K E NAMES:
Mighty
Great
The Mall of America is so big it could fit 43 airplanes inside, but its size isn’t the only thing that makes it special. There’s so much to do, you could spend an entire day seeking excitement and still not see it all. Nickelodeon Universe is a scene to be seen, but before you spin to oblivion on the Fairly Odd Coaster, detour over to ClimbZone. With 44 unique walls to scale, a high and mighty bird’s-eye view of the mall awaits. Bloomington, 952-883-8800, mallofamerica.com
N Is for Nature
GO OUTSIDE AND DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF NATURE.
ALL IT TAKES IS A LITTLE CURIOSITY , A BIT OF BRAVERY, AND A WHOLE LOTTA SUNSCREEN.
Get a hearty dose of vitamin D at French Regional Park . You’ll fly high and swing low on the park’s many slides, towers, and ramps. The playground also has 47 nets—try to crawl across them all. 12605 Rockford Rd., Plymouth, 763-694-7750, threeriversparks.org
Discover the many branches of Mother Nature’s family tree at the Richardson Nature Center. Skip down the trails that weave between forests, wetlands, and prairies before stopping off at the indoor facility, where you’ll see an active beehive and meet Richardson’s resident raptors, reptiles, and amphibians (oh my!). 8737 Bush Lake Rd. E., Bloomington, 763-694-7676, threeriversparks.org
Take a break from brightly colored
swings and slides and head to the Fawn Crossing Nature Play Area for a more natureforward quest. You can build forts from sticks, balance on logs, create sand sculptures and water dams, and climb about on rocks and stumps. Your imagination is in charge, which means the possibilities are endless. 17100 Station Tr., Farmington, 952-891-7000, co.dakota.mn.us
Did you know that sandwiched between the Rose Garden in Lyndale Park and Lake Harriet’s band shell exists a bird mecca? The T.S. Roberts Bird Sanctuary attracts more than 200 species of birds. Wander through
ORCHARD OBSESSIONS
(AND OTHER FARMS WE LOVE)
AFTON APPLE ORCHARD
WHERE IT IS: 14421 S. 90th St., Hastings, 651-436-8385, aftonapple.com
the wetlands, wet prairie, and forest to see what kinds of winged creatures you can discover. Bonus points if you glimpse Minnesota’s state bird take flight—usually when a loon takes off, it runs on water. 4124 Roseway Rd., Mpls., 612-230-6400, minneapolisparks. org
Have you ever been to a hobbit house?
See how the fictional creature lives at the Tamarack Nature Center, where there’s a hobbit house, cliffs to climb, and a slew of other outdoor activities to pique your curiosity. Discovery Hollow is designed specifically for kids, but the entire preserve has more than 300 acres of wooded wonder. 5287 Otter Lake Rd., White Bear Township, 651-266-0360, ramseycounty.us
WHAT TO DO: In the summer months, choose from fresh strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries, while the fall has apples, pumpkins, and gourds. WHY WE s IT: Fresh strawberries and crunchy apples. Is there anything sweeter?
APPLE JACK ORCHARDS
WHERE IT IS: 4875 SE 37th St., Delano, 763-972-6673, applejackorchards.com
WHAT TO DO: Pick apples, get lost in a maze, shoot apple cannons, fall into the corn pit. There’s something for everyone. WHY WE s IT: The grounds are endlessly entertaining, but the baked goods in the orchard’s sweet shop are the real treat.
KNAPTON’S
WHERE IT IS: 5695 Hwy. 55, Rockford, 763-479-1184, knaptons.org
WHAT IT HAS: There’s never a day without raspberries, but Knapton’s also has cherries, plums, pears, and—of course—apples! WHY WE s IT: Raspberries are bursting with vitamins A and C. Just watch your fingers as you sift through the brambles; they can be a tad prickly.
BERRY HILL FARM
WHERE IT IS: 6510 185th Ave. NW, Anoka, 763-753-5891, berryhillfarm.com
WHAT IT HAS: If you’re a berry lover, this is the spot for you! WHY WE s IT: It’s a familyowned farm that’s been in business since 1991, so you know they’ve perfected the art of growing the juiciest berries around.
The Woodpile A place that kids and parents both want to visit? It’s a dream come true. This northern stop is a combination restaurant/mini golf course, and it pairs handmade fare with a challenging but doable course. 1408 Co. Rd. 5, Longville, thewoodpilegrill. com
Putt Shack
Make a rainy day more interesting with a trip to this indoor mecca of mini golf. With four courses—each filled with light-up features and unique themes like air hockey and pinball—you won’t even miss the sun. Complete your day indoors with dinner and a Supertube Sundae. Southdale Center, Edina, 952-900-7888, puttshack.com
Pirate’s Cove
Ahoy, matey! Jump aboard this pirate ship of fun, where you’ll putt your way through a mountain cave, across a pirate ship, over footbridges, and around waterfalls. Choose between two 18-hole courses, or see how great you arrr, matey, and play all 36! 5197 Birchdale Rd., Brainerd, 218-828-9002, piratescove.net
Putt N Pets
The Links at Dred Scott Chances are your ball will take at least one dip in the water, as this tricky course is chock-full of mini ponds, lakes, and waterfalls! 10820 Bloomington Ferry Rd., Bloomington, 952-9412444, linksminigolf. com
Par Your Next Putt-Putt
TAKE YOUR MINI GOLF GAME TO THE NEXT LEVEL AT THESE PUTT-PUTT COURSES.
You may not get a round of applause if you score a hole in one, but you could get an enthusiastic baaaahhh. Yep, that’s right! At this Grand Marais mini golf course, you’ll be swinging alongside a herd of farm animals. Don’t worry about errant putts harming roaming chickens; the animals live in ball-proof pens around the course. 2014 W. Hwy. 61, Grand Marais, 218-387-3570
Centennial Lakes Mini Golf
There’s golf. There’s mini golf. And then there’s Centennial Lakes. This course is anything but typical. With holes that range in length from 57 to 125 feet, this Edina course is more like real golf, only you have to play the whole round with your putter. 7499 France Ave. S., Edina, 952-833-9580, edinamn.gov
Lilli Putt
Not everyone is destined to follow in the footsteps of Tiger Woods. If golfing is more of a side sport, this is the place for you! Lilli Putt also has go-karts, bumper boats, escape rooms, and a giant jump pad for non-golfers. 1349 Coon Rapids Blvd., Coon Rapids, 763-755-1450, lilliputt.net
Big Stone Mini Golf
Is it a sculpture garden? Is it a golf course? Yes and also yes. This course incorporates large structures into each of its 14 holes. Take your ball on a spin around the hole called “The Spiral” before testing your sea legs on the “Holey Ship” hole. Cap off your day by roaming around the nearby sculpture garden and animalfilled pasture. 7110 Co. Rd. 110 W., Minnetrista, 952-472-9292, bigstoneminigolf. com
Quaint Stops with a Side of Quirk
Charming towns abound in Minnesota, but these cute places are perfect for kids.
Lindström
If Oaken were ever to move from Arendelle, Lindström would be the place for him. Dubbed “America’s Little Sweden,” Lindström is home to all kinds of Nordic treasures. Start the day at Gustaf’s Eatery (13045 Lake Blvd., 651-263-0737, gustafseatery.com) and try the Swedish pancakes—they’re fluffier and yummier than your everyday flapjacks. Continue on to Allemansrätt Park (31316 Olinda Trail N., cityoflindstrom.us), which nods to Sweden at every turn. Allemansrätt means “every man’s right,” so anyone can roam the 125-acre park, but we suggest a 1.3-mile loop that has paths and boardwalks, making it manageable for your little legs. End your excursion at Franconia Sculpture Park (29836 St. Croix Tr. N., Shafer, 651-257-6668, franconia.org), which is just outside of town but definitely worth the detour.
Put your best foot forward at the Red Wing shoe store, where you’ll find the world’s largest boot Standing more than 20 feet tall, the size 638½ shoe was added in 2005 to celebrate 100 years of being in the boot biz. 315 Main St., Red Wing, 651-388-6233, redwingshoes.com
Stillwater
Way over yonder, just before our friendly neighboring state to the east, lies the charming town of Stillwater. And in this town there’s oh so much to do if you’re a kid. We suggest starting at Teddy Bear Park (207 E. Nelson St., Stillwater), which has cuddly bear statues and nets, slides, tubes, bridges, and a climbing wall. Once you’re done playing the day away, bop on over to the famous Lift Bridge, which is historically significant for its vertical-lift structure. End your journey with a trip to Nelson’s Ice Cream (920 W. Olive St., Stillwater) for a scoop of deliciousness that’s bigger than your head.
Have a ball in Darwin, where the world’s biggest ball of twine rolled by one man sits in the center of town. The landmark, which is visited by roughly 150 fans a day, is 13 feet wide and weighs 17,400 pounds—that’s a mighty big ball! 298 1st St., Darwin, darwintwineball.com
New Ulm
There’s no harm in adding a little history lesson to your trip, especially if your destination is known as “the most German town in America.” Start your quest for knowledge at the Brown County Historical Society Museum (2 N. Broadway St., 507-233-2616, browncountyhistorymn.org), where an exhibit, aptly titled 170 Years of the City of Charm and Tradition, tells the story of New Ulm since its founding in 1855. Spoiler alert: The tornado of 1881 was one for the record books. Once your brain is brimming with fun facts, continue on to Riverside Park (101 S. Front St., newulmmn. gov), where you can climb the pirate-ship playground and meet Gertie the Goose, the area’s unofficial mascot. End your day with a traditional German meal—if schnitzel and sauerbraten aren’t for you, pretzels are a safe bet.
Henderson
Zippity-do-da right on over to Henderson, where Kerfoot Canopy Tour (30200 Scenic Byway Rd., 952873-3900, kerfootcanopytour.com) awaits. The zip line park has 14 unique tracks that allow you to fly high through the sky from treetop to treetop. There’s also a ropes course that tests your bravery with a four-story tower and 60 different challenges. Once your adrenaline is thoroughly pumping, head over to the Hummingbird Garden (located at the corner of Oak St. and 4th St.) for a moment of calm. If you’re in town on a Tuesday during the spring and summer, hit Main Street for the Classic Car RollIn (hendersonrollin.com), where antique autos, live music, and door prizes abound.
SOMETHING SILLY, SWEET, STRANGE, AND SUBTERRANEAN
THE SILLY
Shake your hips and do a twirl during the family dance portion of the Mini Mia program at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, which takes place the first Wednesday of the month. The free program has a kid-centric tour and a cozy story time, so it’s educational and entirely entertaining. 2400 3rd Ave. S., Mpls., 888-642-2787, new.artsmia.org
THE SWEET
You may know the Hulk, but did you know another big green dude lives in Minnesota?
Blue Earth’s Jolly Green Giant statue stands 60 feet tall and reminds onlookers what a big deal agriculture is in Faribault County. 1126 Green Giant Ln., Blue Earth, 507-5262916, blueearthchamber.com
Follow your nose to the Baking Lab in the Mill City Museum, where you’ll get the dish on how Minnesota helped change the flour industry. Step into a test kitchen and see how different grains of wheat find varying ways to rise to the occasion. 704 S. 2nd St., Mpls., 612-341-7555, mnhs.org
THE STRANGE
It’s not every day you get to celebrate canned meat, but that’s precisely what you’ll do at the SPAM Museum. Learn about the meat’s role in World War II before testing your canning abilities in a mock assembly line. May the best can win. 101 3rd Ave. NE, Austin, 507-437-5100, spam.com
THE SUBTERRANEAN
You might not happen upon Poppy and Branch in Wabasha Street Caves, but you can’t stop the feeling of joy you’ll experience at the kid-specific Troll Tales tour. 215 S. Wabasha St., St. Paul, 651-224-1191, wabashacaves.com
Triumphant Team Spirit
ROOT FOR ONE—OR ALL—OF THESE SUPER SPORTY HOME TEAMS!
Hey batter, batter! Take yourself out to a baseball game and cheer on the Minnesota Twins
Attend a Sunday game at Target Field and you can get free face painting, some tasty kids’ meals, and a chance to run the bases after the final out. mlb.com/twins
Minnesota is the land of 10,000 rinks, so it’s only natural that its two professional hockey teams are at the top of your lungs, er, list. The Minnesota Wild have a Kids Club so you can stay up to date on what’s happening on—and off—the ice. Meanwhile, the women’s professional team, the Frost , hosts fan appreciation games, but we should be the ones offering thanks since the Frost are one of six inaugural teams in the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL). nhl.com; thepwhl.com
Get your kicks at a Minnesota soccer game!
The Minnesota United Football Club plays at Allianz Field for much of the spring, summer, and fall, while Minnesota Aurora Football Club is a community-driven women’s soccer club that plays at TCO Stadium. Don’t be alarmed if you see a giant dinosaur-like creature on the sidelines. Rory the Aurorasaurus is the Aurora’s mascot. mnufc.com, mnaurora.com
For a rollicking good time at the ballpark, a St. Paul Saints game is just the ticket! The Triple-A minor league team uses ushertainers and Mudonna, the pig mascot, to keep things lively. But if ants in your pants drive you out of your seat, the play area behind center field has a climbing wall, a bounce house, and a life-size game of Candy Land. milb.com/st-paul
Skol! A ticket to a Minnesota Vikings game might be beyond your allowance, but by joining the Minnesota Vikings Kids Club, you could find yourself an invitation to an even hotter event—Viktor the Viking’s birthday party. His last celebration was at Sky Zone; who knows what next year will bring? vikings.com
Spot the difference between an alley-oop and a hook shot while watching one of Minnesota’s two top-notch basketball teams. The Timberwolves are part of the NBA, while the Lynx dominate the WNBA. nba.com/ timberwolves; lynx.wnba. com
The Timberwolves are Minnesota’s NBA team, and shooting guard Anthony Edwards is our superstar. You choose what’s more entertaining: watching Edwards sink three-pointers or the Wolves’ mascot, Crunch, and his sideline antics!
“I love the Wolves because of Ant!”
U Is for Urban Art
AND OTHER SITES TO SPARK YOUR CREATIVE SIDE! FROM MURALS TO MUSEUMS, COLOR YOUR WORLD AT THESE ARTSY SPOTS.
1. Practice your Minnesota lingo at the You Betcha mural in Brainerd. 711 Laurel St., Brainerd 2. Play a giant game of hideand-seek at the Waves of Discovery mural, where 50 objects are hidden across the wall of artwork. 102 W. Main St., Perham 3. Make something magnificent in the ever-changing artist studio at the Children’s Museum . Clay, crafts, and so much creativity await. 10 W. 7th St., St. Paul, 651-225-6000, mcm.org 4. When your parents don’t want to deal with the mess of your next art project, direct them to Mess Hall Arts , where you can splatter, smear, sprinkle, and smudge to your heart’s content. 906 Mainstreet, Hopkins, 952-207-2267, messhallmn.com 5. Sometimes it’s OK to paint outside the lines—or even paint on walls, which is what kids from the Lyndale School did to make the Lyndale Mural a colorful reality. 312 W. 34th St., Mpls. 6. Da Vinci had to start somewhere. Drop into an open studio Saturday at Artrageous Adventures, and someday one of your creations might reach Mona Lisa status. 2121 W. 21st St., Mpls., 612-423-7554, artrageousadventures.com
• V •
Fun is full steam ahead in Moorhead, where a giant replica of a 9th-century Viking ship lives in the Hjemkomst Center. The Norwegian burial ship made its maiden voyage from Duluth to Norway in 1980 before returning back to Minnesota in ship-shape condition. 202 1st Ave. N., Moorhead, hcscconline.org
T H E P ER FEC T MATC H
Test your park smarts and see how well you know our state! Connect the description with its park and earn a pat on the back!
1. Is named for a one-and-ahalf-mile-long cliff of Sioux quartzite.____
2. Our state’s only national park, which turns 50 this year!____
3. Sometimes called the birthplace of the Mississippi River.
4. Is the largest state park in Minnesota.____
5. Photographers flock here to snap a famous beacon.____
6. Holds the childhood home of a famous aviator.
7. Features Minnesota’s tallest waterfall.____
8. A herd of bison lives in this state park in Mankato!____
9. Where you can see glacial potholes.
10. Minnesota’s newest state park, which opened in 2014.
ANSWERS: 1b, 2f, 3a, 4d, 5j, 6e, 7g, 8c, 9h, 10i
A. Itasca State Park
B. Blue Mounds State Park
C. Minneopa State Park
D. St. Croix State Park
E. Charles A. Lindbergh State Park
F. Voyageurs National Park
G. Grand Portage State Park
H. Interstate State Park
I. Lake VermilionSoudan Underground Mine State Park
J. Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
Wet ’n’ Wild
From body slides to lakeside rides, consider this your guide to cooling off!
The climbing wall and lazy river might make Como Regional Park Pool an awesomely good time, but the zip line makes it mind-blowingly fun. Diving platforms and a tot pool make it suitable for kids of all ages. 1151 Wynne Ave., St. Paul, 651-489-0378, stpaul.gov
Be one of the first to try the new and improved Splash Valley in Apple Valley. The aquatic park got a serious upgrade with new water features, cool slides, and a lazy river that’s a chill place to hang all day long. 14421 Johnny Cake Ridge Rd., Apple Valley, cityofapplevalley.org
Peter Pan says you need to think happy thoughts to be able to fly. Peter and Tink likely haven’t been to Foster Arend Park in Rochester, where a water park made from inflatables is primed and ready to bounce you high into the sky. Then again, as you jump from floating inflatable to floating inflatable, happy thoughts are inevitable. 4051 East River Rd. NE, Rochester, 507328-2525, rochestermn.gov
Get ready to shake, rattle, and roll your way across the Wiggly Water Walk at Bunker Beach. It’s a test of your balance as you try walking on water via giant (unstable) lily pads. A suspended cargo net is your only support, so hold on tight! 701 Co. Pkwy. A, Coon Rapids, 763-324-3310, bunkerbeach.com
ILLUSTRATIONS BY KEVIN CANNON
Put your math hat on for a second and consider the size of a bucket that holds 350 gallons of water—that’s what’s waiting for you at Wild Adventure Island. There’s also a lazy river and waterslides, but the dump bucket ready to pour water all over your head is definitely bucket-list material.
Splish and splash your way around the water geysers at the St. Louis Park Aquatic Park. What’s a geyser, you ask? Imagine a blast of water that shoots into the sky, drenching you and your pals. For more timid tots, there’s a kiddie whale slide that’s a pretty sweet ride.
3700 Monterey Dr., St. Louis Park, 952-924-2540, stlouisparkmn.gov
Surf’s up! Hang ten like a true surfer brah at the Edina Aquatic Center, where a surf simulator teaches you to go with the flow! Smaller friends can bodyboard, while those big kids can tackle the Big Kahuna! 4300 W. 66th St., Edina, 952-833-9560, edinamn.gov
Have a need for speed? The green and yellow drop slides at Cascade Bay will zoom you right down the chute, while the purple tube slide is a cushier ride that plops you into the lazy river. The orange slide deposits you into super shallow water and is an easy place to start. 1360 Civic Center Dr., Eagan, 651-675-5577, cityofeagan.com
37200 Wild Mountain Rd., Taylors Falls, 651-465-6365, wildmountain.com
There’s no better place on a hot summer day than Jim Lupient Water Park in Minneapolis. The multiple spray features will cool you off in a jiffy, while several slides will keep you slipping and sliding all day long. 1520 NE Johnson St., Mpls., 612-370-4937, minneapolisparks.org
No one is safe from the drips, drops, and serious splashes that accompany Thunder Canyon at Valleyfair. The river rapids and whooshing waterfalls make this a totally tubular ride that’s bound to get you drenched. 1 Valleyfair Dr., Shakopee, 952-4457600, valleyfair.com
You Gotta Yurt
WHAT’S A YURT, YOU ASK? IT’S LIKE CAMPING, BUT WITH A ROOF AND A BED. SWEET DREAMS. Pop stars hang out there, sports stars sweat there, and ESPN called it one of the best stadium experiences in all of professional sports. What is it? The Xcel Energy Center! It’s the place to see a concert, a sporting game, or the sold-out high school state hockey tournament. 199 Kellogg Blvd. W., St. Paul, 651-265-4800, xcelenergycenter.com
Play house in the wilderness at the Wildhaven yurt near Two Harbors. The whole experience is more glamping than camping— there’s electricity, a refrigerator, and Wi-Fi—but you’ll be snug as a (stylish) bug tucked into the woods with your fam for some moments of quiet and calm. There’s a queen bed and a pullout bed, so four of you can fit comfortably and enjoy the board games, puzzles, and crafts! wildhavenmn.com
Fresh air and endless activities under the stars—some may say there’s nothing better. But they haven’t had mac and cheese fresh from a microwave in the middle of a camping trip. If you opt to rent a
yurt from Yurt Village at Cabin O’ Pines, you’ll still get to reenact all your favorite Nature Cat moments, but you’ll also have a bed, a mini fridge, and a microwave. But the best part of this already amazing sitch—golf carts that match the color of your yurt are available to rent. 4378 Pelican Rd., Orr, 218-757-3122, cabinopines.com
Nights can get a wee bit chilly during the fall. For camping during the cooler months, a yurt blends outdoorsy shenanigans with cozy sleeps. The yurts at Afton State Park are heated by a woodstove and are insulated, so you needn’t worry about your little toesies getting too frosty. You will want to pack some snuggly layers, however.
It’s a trek to the bathroom, and all cooking is done outside in a fire ring. 6959 Peller Ave. S., Hastings, 651-201-6780, dnr. state.mn.us
You know how Ms. Frizzle is always up for all kinds of antics on The Magic School Bus? She’d love a trip to Glendalough State Park, where accessing the two yurts on the shore of Annie Battle Lake is quite the adventure. You can bike, hike, or canoe to your temporary home in the woods, but you know what Ms. Frizzle says: “Where the road ends, adventure begins!” 24869 Whitetail Ln., Battle Lake, 218-261-6900, dnr.state.mn.us
Zany Zoo Days
GO WILD WITH SOME OF OUR FAVORITE LIONS AND TIGERS AND BEARS (OH MY)!
Brown bear, brown bear, what do you see at the Minnesota Zoo?
Chances are it’s a ton of kids looking at you!
Grin at a grizzly before roaring with a tiger at this beloved home to animals from around the globe. If the sun is shining, you may want to bring a swimsuit—the splash pad beckons after a morning of talking to animals. 13000 Zoo Blvd., Apple Valley, 952-431-9200, mnzoo.org
You know how older things are sometimes wiser? Well, the Lake Superior Zoo is the 19tholdest zoo in the country, so it sure knows how to be a really, really awesome zoo. There are red pandas and kangaroos, bears and tigers, and there’s even a cotton-top tamarin, which is one of the world’s most endangered primates. 7210 Fremont St., Duluth, 218-461-3527, lszoo.org
Channel your inner Sonic the Hedgehog and race to the center of Oxbow Park valley, where you’ll find the Dr. Paul E. Zollman Zoo and Nature Center. Experience the healing power of nature at this unique zoo, because all the animals are either permanently injured or surplus friends from other zoos. 5731 Co. Rd. 105 NW, Byron, 507-328-7340, olmstedcounty.gov
Meet Mumford, the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory resident lion. He may not be in cahoots with Kion, Kiara, and the other Lion Guard gang, but his roar can be heard across the park as you visit the zebras, tigers, monkeys, and more! 1225 Estabrook Dr., St. Paul, 651-487-8201, comozooconservatory.org
Watch as Clark the Shark’s shark pals zing, bang, and boom around the aquarium at Sea Life. An underwater tunnel offers a different view of some of your favorite flippered friends and foes—there are also 9-foot sand tiger sharks. MOA, visitsealife.com
Did you know there’s a rhino rock star at the Hemker Zoo? At the only zoo in the state with a rhinoceros, this thick-skinned creature will grow to be 5,000 pounds, making him a pretty big deal at this women-led zoo. 26715 Co. Rd. 39, Freeport, 320-8362426, hemkerzoo.com
The Secret Life of Pets 2 isn’t the only place where you can see a white tiger. Spend a lovely day at Safari North in Brainerd, where you can meet white and orange tigers, an emu, a cheetah, and so much more! You can also feed giraffes and hit some rides when you’re all animaled out. 8493 Hwy. 371, Brainerd, 218-454-1662, safarinorth.com
