1. The Backyard at Brookview

Best Indoor Playground for Younger Kids

Located in Golden Valley, Brookview is one of the top indoor play destinations near Minneapolis for kids ages 2–12. The Backyard indoor playground features super slides, twisty tubes, cargo climbs, bumper balls, log rollers and cave crawls — perfect for burning off spring break energy. When hunger strikes, stop in next door at the Three One Six Bar + Grill for classic American fare including burgers, salads, sandwiches and flatbreads, along with plenty of kid-friendly favorites.

2. Game Show Battle Rooms

Best Interactive Group Activity for Ages 10+

If your crew loves friendly competition, Game Show Battle Rooms in St. Louis Park brings the excitement of TV game shows to life. A live host guides your group through high-energy rounds like Survey Battles, Spin & Solve, What’s That Cost?, MatchUp Wars and Time Rush Games. Perfect for families with older kids and teens looking for something different during spring break.

3. Park Tavern Bowling & Entertainment Center

Best Classic Family Fun Night

A St. Louis Park favorite for more than 60 years, Park Tavern offers 20 lanes of bowling, arcade games and dart boards — making it one of the best indoor family activities near Minneapolis.

The full-service restaurant serves freshly made pizza, tater tots, burgers and options for vegan and gluten-free diners. Two bars offer wall-to-wall TVs for cheering on your favorite team. In warmer weather, the outdoor patio features lawn games and seating for 150+ guests.

4. Pavek Museum of Electronic Communication

Best Educational Indoor Activity

The Pavek Museum in St. Louis Park houses one of the world’s most significant collections of vintage radio and television equipment. Kids and adults alike can explore the science of sound and electromagnetism through interactive exhibits and hands-on learning.

Highlights include a Theremin, Spark Gap Generator, Magnetaphon and the Philco Mystery Control Radio. The museum is also home to the Minnesota Broadcasting Hall of Fame — making it a unique educational stop during spring break.

5. Schaper Park Challenge Course

Best Outdoor Adventure for Active Kids

Golden Valley’s Schaper Park features Minnesota’s first outdoor fitness challenge course, inspired by Ninja Warrior-style obstacles. Kids and adults can race through a 40-yard dash and test their skills on the obstacle elements. The park also includes an inclusive playground designed for younger children and families of all ability levels, making it a great free outdoor option near Minneapolis.

Photo: GameTime

6. Marcus West End Cinema

Best Rainy-Day Activity

Catch the latest movie releases at Marcus West End Cinema, located at The Shops at West End in St. Louis Park. With stadium seating, advance seat selection and free ramp parking, it’s an easy spring break outing.

Pro tip: Join the Magical Movie Rewards program (free to sign up) for food and drink discounts.

7. Westwood Hills Nature Center

Best Free Nature Escape

Explore 160 acres of marsh, woods and restored prairie at Westwood Hills Nature Center in St. Louis Park. With more than three miles of accessible trails, families can enjoy birdwatching, wildlife spotting and even geocaching.

The eco-friendly Interpretive Center features hands-on exhibits and live animal ambassadors, including a red-tailed hawk, American kestrel and barred owl. It’s one of the best free things to do with kids in St. Louis Park.