If you’re looking for a playground that can keep kids entertained for hours, the Hyland Play Area in Bloomington absolutely lives up to the hype. I’ve known of this park for years by its local nickname: the “Chutes and Ladders” playground, as this massive play area is one of the most popular destinations for kids […]
How to Do Minnesota Twins Games on a Budget (2026 Family Guide)
Hooray for summertime in Minnesota! It’s finally here. A Minnesota summer always fills up fast with lakes, parks, camping trips, and all the free things we love doing with kids. But there’s one experience that belongs on the “must-do” list for summer: Minnesota Twins games at Target Field. It’s not just a baseball game — […]
Free Rides on Cafesjian’s Carousel at Como Zoo on These Dates in 2026
Free Carousel Rides at Como Zoo are back in 2026! The famous Cafesjian’s Carousel at Como Zoo is open all summer long from May 1st through Labor Day, plus weekends in September and October, and offers free rides from 11:00am – 4:00pm on select dates in the summer. You can ride FREE on the last […]
Free Minnesota Twins Youth Baseball & Softball Clinics for Kids
If you’re looking for a fun, active, and completely free way to get your kids involved in sports this summer, the Minnesota Twins Community Fund Youth Baseball & Softball Clinics are back—and they’re traveling all across the state! Running from May 2nd through August 14th, 2026, these clinics bring the joy of baseball and softball […]
Free Planet Fitness Memberships for Teens this Summer (2026)
Teens can sign up at any Planet Fitness location, but if they’re under 18 they must have a parent or guardian present at sign up. Check their website for more information.
Family Movie Night on a Budget: Summer Movie Deals to Grab Now
If you’ve got kids like mine — especially teens who love big releases — then you already know summer movie season is a big deal. Between animated sequels, live-action remakes, and a few fan-favorite franchises coming back, there’s a lot hitting theaters over the next few months. And if your family is anything like mine, […]
Free Summer Fun for Twin Cities Kids & Families 2026
Free Summer Fun for Twin Cities Kids & Families 2026 The Twin Cities has so many fun activities and events for kids and families – but did you know that many are FREE? So every year I compile a list of all the free fun I could find! Plus a free gift – here’s a […]
Free Summer Reading Programs for Kids 2026
There are some great summer reading programs that your children can take advantage of to earn FREE books and other prizes! Here is a roundup for programs available to families in Minnesota! Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program – This summer reading program through Barnes & Noble gives your child the ability to earn a FREE […]
Twin Cities Area Summer County Fair List 2026
Twin Cities Area County Fairs and the Minnesota State Fair! SUMMER 2026 LIST It’s time for summer fairs! Note that this information is based on each fair’s website at the time of posting and may change. (See bottom of list for my tips on having a great time with kids!) JUNE Hennepin County Fair: June […]
Sunflower Fields Near Minneapolis–Saint Paul (2025 Edition)
Nothing says late summer in Minnesota like a stroll through glowing sunflower fields. Whether you’re chasing the perfect golden-hour photo, planning a family outing, or just craving fresh air and flowers, there are plenty of vibrant sunflower destinations within an hour or so of the Twin Cities. Here’s where to go this August and September […]