Planning a trip to Saint Paul with your family? Minnesota's capital city offers an incredible mix of educational museums, outdoor adventures, and interactive experiences that will keep kids of all ages entertained. From getting up close with animals at Como Park Zoo to exploring hands-on exhibits at world-class museums, St. Paul delivers unforgettable memories for the whole family. Whether you're visiting during summer fun season or planning a weekend getaway, this guide covers the best kids' activities the city has to offer.
TLDR:
- Como Park Zoo and Conservatory offers free admission and amazing animal encounters
- The Science Museum of Minnesota features interactive exhibits perfect for curious minds
- Outdoor adventures include mini golf, fishing, and scenic parks throughout the city
- Year-round family-friendly events and festivals keep the calendar packed with fun
Ready to Experience St. Paul with Your Family?
Make your Twin Cities adventure unforgettable by booking a spacious Roami rental in St. Paul. With room for the whole family and all the amenities of home, you'll have the perfect home base for exploring everything this vibrant city has to offer. Book your St. Paul stay today and start creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Explore Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
Como Park Zoo stands as one of St. Paul's crown jewels, offering families a chance to spend quality time with animals from around the world without spending a dime. This beloved attraction has been delighting visitors for generations, and it remains one of the top things to do in St. Paul with kids.
Meet Animals from Around the World
Your kids will be amazed by the diverse collection of animals calling the Como Park Zoo home. From majestic lions and playful primates to fascinating polar bears, the zoo provides an up-close look at wildlife that sparks curiosity and wonder. The Tropical Encounters exhibit is particularly popular, where families can explore a lush rainforest environment filled with exotic birds, reptiles, and free-roaming monkeys. Parents will appreciate how the zoo balances education with entertainment, making it easy for children to learn about different species and their habitats while having a blast.
Wander Through the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory
Adjacent to the zoo, the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory offers a completely different but equally captivating experience. This stunning glass structure houses multiple gardens showcasing plants from various climates and regions. Kids can wander through the Palm Dome, discover colorful orchids in the Orchid House, and enjoy the seasonal flower shows that bring vibrant life to Minnesota winters. The peaceful atmosphere provides a nice contrast to the excitement of the zoo, giving families a relaxing spot to explore nature's beauty together.
Get Hands-On at the Science Museum of Minnesota
Located along the Mississippi River, the Science Museum of Minnesota ranks among the premier educational attractions in the Twin Cities. This isn't your typical museum where kids just look at displays behind glass—this is a place built for exploration and discovery.
Interactive Exhibits for Curious Minds
The museum's hands-on exhibits invite children to touch, build, play, and experiment their way through scientific concepts. The Collections Gallery allows kids to examine real artifacts and specimens, while the Experiment Gallery encourages them to think like scientists through interactive challenges. Young visitors can dig for fossils, learn about the human body, and even experience what it's like to step inside a tornado. Every corner of this museum is designed to ignite creativity and foster a love of learning that extends far beyond your visit.
Catch a Show at the Omnitheater
Don't leave the Science Museum without experiencing a film at the massive Omnitheater. This giant dome screen surrounds viewers with stunning imagery and immersive sound, making you feel like you're truly part of the action. From underwater adventures to space exploration, the rotating film selection offers something for everyone. It's the perfect way to cap off your museum visit and give everyone a chance to sit back and be amazed.
Discover Art and Creativity at Local Museums
St. Paul's museum scene extends beyond science, offering families multiple ways to engage with art, history, and culture.
Bell Museum: Natural History Comes Alive
The Bell Museum brings Minnesota's natural world indoors with beautifully crafted dioramas and exhibits that showcase the state's diverse ecosystems. Kids can get nose-to-nose with mounted wildlife specimens, explore the night sky at the planetarium, and participate in hands-on programs designed for young naturalists. The museum does an excellent job of connecting children to the nature that exists right in their own backyard, inspiring future conservationists and outdoor enthusiasts.
Engaging Young Artists
Art museums in the area often feature special programming designed specifically for children, including interactive tours, art-making workshops, and family days where creativity takes center stage. These experiences help kids develop an appreciation for the visual arts while giving them the freedom to express themselves through their own creations.
Outdoor Family Fun in St. Paul
When the weather cooperates—which it beautifully does during Minnesota summers—St. Paul's outdoor offerings truly shine. The city's commitment to maintaining quality parks and recreational spaces means families always have somewhere new to explore.
Mini Golf Adventures
Nothing says summer fun quite like a round of mini golf with the family. Several locations around St. Paul offer courses that range from classic windmill-and-castle designs to more creative themed layouts. It's an activity that works for all ages and skill levels, making it perfect for families with children spanning different age groups. The friendly competition and laughter that come with trying to navigate tricky holes create bonding moments you'll cherish.
Parks Perfect for Play and Picnics
St. Paul is home to an impressive park system that offers something for every type of outdoor enthusiast. Beyond Como Park, families will find countless neighborhood parks equipped with playgrounds, walking trails, and open spaces perfect for a picnic lunch. Many parks feature splash pads that provide relief on hot summer days, while others offer sports fields and courts where older kids can burn off energy. Pack a lunch, bring a blanket, and spend the day letting your children explore, play, and connect with nature.
Fishing Spots for Young Anglers
Introducing kids to fishing is a time-honored tradition, and St. Paul makes it easy with numerous accessible fishing spots. Many of the city's lakes and ponds are stocked with fish, increasing the chances that even novice anglers will get a bite. The patience and focus required for fishing provide a wonderful counterbalance to more high-energy activities, and there's nothing quite like the pride on a child's face when they reel in their first catch. Don't forget to check local regulations and obtain any necessary licenses before heading out.
Summer Activities and Family-Friendly Events
St. Paul's event calendar stays packed throughout the year, but summer truly brings the city to life with festivals, concerts, and special programming designed with families in mind.
Seasonal Festivals Throughout the Year
From summer concerts in the park to winter celebrations, St. Paul hosts festivals that highlight everything from local food and culture to music and art. These events often feature activities specifically designed for children, including face painting, crafts, games, and performances. Many festivals also showcase the diverse cultural heritage of the Twin Cities, exposing kids to different traditions, foods, and artistic expressions. June through August sees the heaviest concentration of outdoor festivals, making summer the prime time for event-hopping families.
Weekend Adventures in the Twin Cities
St. Paul's proximity to Minneapolis means families can easily explore both cities during a single trip. When you're looking to expand your adventures beyond St. Paul, consider exploring things to do in Minneapolis for even more family-friendly options. The Twin Cities region offers an almost endless variety of attractions, restaurants, and experiences that keep families entertained week after week. Many families make a tradition of dedicating one weekend per month to trying something new in the area—a habit that ensures you'll never run out of adventures.
Indoor Entertainment for All Ages
Minnesota weather can be unpredictable, which is why St. Paul offers plenty of indoor options for days when outdoor plans don't pan out.
Arcade Games and Play Spaces
Several family entertainment centers around the city feature arcade games, climbing structures, and interactive play areas that let kids burn energy regardless of the weather outside. These venues often combine classic arcade games with modern gaming technology, creating an experience that appeals to both nostalgic parents and tech-savvy children. It's the perfect rainy day backup plan that still delivers plenty of excitement.
Rainy Day Activities
Beyond arcades, St. Paul offers numerous indoor attractions that make cloudy days just as fun as sunny ones. Libraries often host story times and craft sessions, community centers offer drop-in programs, and several indoor play facilities provide safe environments for climbing, jumping, and exploring. Having a mental list of these backup options ensures that your family vacation stays on track no matter what Mother Nature has in store.
When you're ready to refuel between adventures, don't miss the chance to visit some of the best restaurants St. Paul has to offer, many of which feature kid-friendly menus and welcoming atmospheres.
Planning your trip at the right time can make a big difference in your experience. Check out our guide to the best time to visit St. Paul, Minnesota, to help you choose dates that align with your family's interests and preferences.
For those wondering if the Twin Cities are worth adding to your travel bucket list, our article on is Minneapolis worth visiting provides insights into what makes this region such a special destination for families and travelers of all types.
If you're making St. Paul part of a larger vacation plan, you might also enjoy reading about things to do in New Orleans with kids and things to do in Miami with kids—other cities where Roami offers spacious family accommodations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best location for families visiting St. Paul?
Downtown St. Paul offers excellent access to major attractions like the Science Museum and various dining options. Staying in a central location makes it easy to navigate the city and reduces travel time between activities. Consider exploring downtown St. Paul to get a feel for the area's layout and discover what each neighborhood offers families.
Are there zoos besides Como Park Zoo in the area?
Como Park Zoo is the primary zoo in St. Paul itself, but the Twin Cities metro area offers additional options for animal lovers. The Minnesota Zoo, located in nearby Apple Valley, provides another world-class experience with different species and exhibits. Both zoos offer unique experiences worth exploring if your family loves animals.
What can we do in St. Paul during the school year versus summer break?
The school year brings quieter museums and attractions, making it easier to explore without crowds. Many venues also offer special programming during this time. Summer break, however, features the most festivals, outdoor events, and extended hours at popular attractions. Both seasons have their advantages—choose based on whether you prefer a more relaxed pace or a jam-packed event calendar.
How should we spend a typical day visiting St. Paul with children?
A well-planned day might include a morning at Como Park Zoo, lunch at a family-friendly restaurant, and an afternoon at the Science Museum. This combination offers variety while keeping travel time manageable. Build in downtime between activities to prevent burnout, and be flexible if kids want to spend extra time at a particular attraction they're enjoying.
Where can families enjoy the life and culture of Minnesota?
St. Paul excels at showcasing Minnesota's unique culture through its museums, festivals, and public spaces. The Bell Museum highlights the state's natural history, while local events celebrate everything from Nordic heritage to modern art. Simply walking through different neighborhoods gives families a sense of the diverse communities that make up the Twin Cities.
What makes St. Paul different from other places to visit with kids?
St. Paul combines Midwestern friendliness with big-city attractions, creating a welcoming environment where families feel comfortable exploring. The city's manageable size means less time stuck in traffic and more time making memories. People here genuinely love sharing their city with visitors, and that warmth enhances every experience. Whether you're here for a weekend or an entire week, you'll find that St. Paul offers the perfect balance of education, entertainment, and relaxation for families.
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