Things to do in the Twin Cities Southwest Metro this weekend – with kids & family!
This Weekend Family Guide includes events and activities near the Twin Cities, Minnesota, communities of Bloomington, Burnsville, Chaska, Eden Prairie, Edina, Hopkins, Minnetonka, New Hope, Prior Lake, Richfield, Shakopee, St Louis Park, Victoria & Waconia.
This guide covers the weekend of February 24-25, 2024. Not locating the city you’re looking for? We also cover tons of fun family events in the areas of:
What month is this, anyway?
We hang here in the uncertain time between late winter and early spring, contemplating puzzlers like, do we wash the kids’ barely-worn snowpants and stash them away until next season or do we leave them hanging by the back door in case an April blizzard rears its head? Do we bother to replace all those missing right mittens before March or do we wait for the growth spurt in September? And is it about time to have the lawn mower gassed up and standing by? If you’d rather put these decisions off and plan for family fun with this weekend with your loved ones, keep scrolling here (we don’t blame you). Or, for more ideas, hop over to our FEBRUARY FAMILY GUIDE or our FAMILY FUN CALENDAR.Â
Fun outdoor activities in the Twin Cities Southwest Metro parks this weekendÂ
We’ve got the details on dozens of outdoor activities presented by local, county and regional park systems across the greater Twin Cities. The following are a few of our best suggestions for activities near your neighborhood this weekend. You can get more ideas on our FAMILY FUN CALENDAR or peruse the links below to seek out local outdoor things to do with kids this weekend in the parks.
Winter Play Day with Three Rivers Parks
Here’s a taste of the free winter fun presented specially this weekend at Three Rivers Parks District locations in the Twin Cities Southwest Metro. Some previously scheduled activities have been modified due to weather. All take place on Saturday, February 24:
- HYLAND LAKE PARK RESERVE, Bloomington: A whole festival with free mini ski lessons, free rentals, guided nature trail walks, bonfires with free marshmallow roasts and live music. 11am-3:30pm.
- RICHARDSON NATURE CENTER: Free smores by the campfire. 10am-3pm.
Free Family Fun Day at Richardson: Insects Inside
Richardson Nature Center, , 8737 E Bush Lake Rd, Bloomington, MN 55438
Explore the indoor exhibits along with the interesting bug species that call the nature center home. Learn more about all the kid-friendly details at RICHARDSON NATURE CENTER. February 25, 2024, 3-4pm. FREE.
Living History Tours at Pond Dakota Mission Park
Pond Dakota Mission Park, 401 E 104th St, Bloomington, MN 55420
Come by the historic Gideon Pond house in the park for guided tours. There are extensive trails to hike around the park property if you want to stretch your legs. February 24, 2024, 1-4pm. FREE, donations appreciated.
Jungle-themed Family Yoga at Wood Lake
6710 Lake Shore Dr S, Richfield, MN 55423
Specially designed for kids ages 2-6 with their caregivers – practice jungle-themed yoga poses (costumes encouraged!). You’ll want to stay to explore the indoor exhibits at the nature center, too. Registration required as space is limited. February 24, 2024, 1p-2pm. $14/family.
Low cost & free things to do this weekend in the Twin Cities – Southwest Metro
Try Hockey for Free Day in Minnesota
Eden Prairie Community Center, 16700 Valley View Rd, Eden Prairie, MN 55346
The decision to place your kiddo in hockey is not one to be taken gently! (We know this from years of personal experience – that little guy in the photo grew up to be a high school goalie.) Why not dabble first at Try Hockey Free Day in Minnesota? Kids (ages 4-9) can a get a feel for the basics of hockey alongside coaches who will offer tips and provide free equipment. Just make sure to register in advance. February 24, 2024. 11:30am-12:30pm.
Little Roos Boutique: Spider-Man Storytime
122 Pioneer Trail, Chaska MN
Your ticket includes admission to the storytime and a $5 shop credit. Encounter is 30 minutes total. Register in advance, space is limited. February 24, 2024, starting at 10am. $5/child.
Marcus Theatres Kids Dream Family Film Series
8380 Hansen Avenue, Shakopee, MN 55379
Marcus Kids Dream series entitles ticket holder to two free passes to the movie of the weekend. You do need to get an e-voucher prior to the show! Grab popcorn and drink specials for just $3.50 each plus tax. This weekend screens Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie. February 23-25, 2024.
More ideas for things to do this weekend in the Twin Cities with kids – Southwest Metro
The Works Museum: Tech Fest
9740 Grand Ave S, Bloomington, MN 55420
Fun, interactive STEM exhibits for all ages make this museum a prime choice for an educational outing – keep this in mind, even if you’re not able to attend the annual Tech Fest. What sets the festival apart are the visiting STEM professionals that offer special activities and demos. Best enjoyed by kids ages 4 & up. February 24, 2024, 10am-4pm. Tickets $13/advance, $15/door.
Dragons Love Tacos: The Musical
1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins, MN 55343
FINAL WEEKEND! The young actors at Stages Theatre present a live adaptation of the book by the same name – set to song! Appropriate for all ages. February 24, shows at 10am & 1pm and February 25, show at 1pm. Tickets $17-$24.