Things to do this week in Minneapolis & St Paul with your kids!
This guide covers Twin Cities family activities for the week of September 19-23, 2022. If you are in search of things to do with your family this weekend, jump over to our WEEKEND FAMILY GUIDE.
For more autumn inspiration you can check our SEPTEMBER FAMILY GUIDE, the ULTIMATE GUIDE TO FALL FUN IN THE TWIN CITIES or our FAMILY FUN CALENDAR for more fun ideas on what to do this week in the Twin Cities with your kids – satisfaction guaranteed (or close to it!)
"BEST OF" The Twin Cities: October
Fun Things to do in the Twin cities on Monday, September 19, 2022
TOT TIME OPEN GYMS ON MONDAY:
- APPLE VALLEY COMMUNITY CENTER (9-11am, $15/membership pass or drop in option)
- APPLE VALLEY – MILLZ HOUSE (Open play 9am-4pm, $6/pp)
- MAPLE GROVE COMMUNITY CENTER (9-10:30am, $3/child)
- MINNEAPOLIS PARKS & REC (See schedule for locations, FREE)
- ST PAUL RECREATION CENTERS (See schedule for locations, FREE)
See our full list of Twin Cities Tot Time Open Gyms this fall!
Let them bounce off someone else’s walls! Our list covers open gyms for tots across the Twin Cities where they can work their wiggles off either FREE or at a low cost to you.
Twin Cities Storytimes on Monday:
- ANOKA COUNTY LIBRARY STORYTIMES: Columbia Heights, Coon Rapids Crooked Lake & St Francis branch libraries.
- CARVER COUNTY LIBRARY STORYTIMES: Chanhassen branch library.
- RAMSEY COUNTY LIBRARY STORYTIMES: Maplewood, Roseville, Shoreview & White Bear Lake library branches.
- WASHINGTON COUNTY LIBRARY STORYTIMES: Lakeland, Mahtomedi, Oakdale & Woodbury library branches.
SPOTLIGHT ON SHOREVIEW: After storytime at the Shoreview Library (10:30am), it’s just a quick walk over to the brand new and super cool destination playground at SHOREVIEW COMMONS. Take advantage of the September weather while you can!
Fun Things to do in the Twin cities on Tuesday, September 20, 2022
TOT TIME OPEN GYMS ON TUESDAY:
The start of fall means open season for a new round of Tot Time open gyms across the Twin Cities. A saving grace for parents of squirrelly kids when playground season has come to an end.
- APPLE VALLEY – MILLZ HOUSE (Open play 9am-4pm, $6/pp)
- EAGAN COMMUNITY CENTER (Blast & Play, 9am-12pm, $5/child)
- MINNEAPOLIS PARKS & REC (Type “family indoor playground” into the search box to see schedule for locations, FREE)
- ST PAUL RECREATION CENTERS (See schedule for locations, FREE)
The Blast Indoor Playground
Twin Cities Storytimes on Tuesday:
- ANOKA COUNTY LIBRARY: Blaine Johnsville & Northtown libraries, Circle Pines Centennial & St Francis Rum River libraries.
- CARVER COUNTY LIBRARY: Chanhassen, Chaska & Waconia branch libraries.
- DAKOTA COUNTY LIBRARY: Apple Valley Wescott, Hastings Pleasant Hill & South St Paul libraries.
- HENNEPIN COUNTY LIBRARY: Minneapolis Central & Northeast Library branches.
- RAMSEY COUNTY LIBRARY: New Brighton, Roseville & Shoreview branch libraries.
- ST PAUL PUBLIC LIBRARY: Arlington Hills, Highland Park & St Anthony Park branch libraries.
- WASHINGTON COUNTY LIBRARY: Bayport, Forest Lake Hardwood Creek, Stillwater & Woodbury RH Stafford library branches.
SPECIAL FEATURE! Theater Explorers Storytime at George Latimer Central Library
90 West 4th Street, Saint Paul MN 55102
Teaching artists from Steppingstone Theatre for Youth provide stories, songs and play and art stations to explore independently. September 20, 10-11:30am, FREE.
MORE FAMILY FUN IDEAS FOR TUESDAY:
OUTDOOR NATURE STORYTIME AT SUNFISH LAKE PARK
Sally Manzara Interpretive Nature Center, Sunfish Lake Park, Lake Elmo, MN 55042
The nature center is hosting an outdoor nature storytime featuring music and nature play recommended for ages 0-6. Plus, kids will enjoy the hands-on indoor exhibits and messy play area. September 20, 2022, 10:30-11. FREE. Learn more about things to do in SUNFISH LAKE PARK.
Check out a Twin Cities nature playground while the weather still permits!
Fun Things to do in the Twin cities on Wednesday, September 21, 2022
TOT TIME OPEN GYMS ON WEDNESDAY:
- APPLE VALLEY COMMUNITY CENTER (9-10:30am, $15/membership pass or drop in option)
- APPLE VALLEY – MILLZ HOUSE (Open play 9am-12pm, $6/pp)
- MINNEAPOLIS PARKS & REC (See schedule for locations, FREE)
- ST PAUL RECREATION CENTERS (See schedule for locations, FREE)
FEATURED OPEN GYM! GLEASON’S GYMNASTICS OPEN GYMS
2015 Silver Bell Rd #180, Eagan, MN 55122
So flipping fun! This used to be a family go-to when the cold set in and my kids needed to get their wiggles out. Yours will love the opportunity to bounce on trampolines, scoot through obstacle courses, and play on the gym equipment. Register in advance for a discount. And hey, teens and tweens! There’s an open gym for you, too. September 14, 2022. Preschool open gym: Wednesdays & Fridays: 9:30 – 11:30am. Pre-register: $8/child; $10/family ($10/$15 at the door).
Twin Cities Storytimes on Wednesday:
- ANOKA COUNTY LIBRARY: Blaine Johnsville & Northtown libraries, Coon Rapids Crooked Lake & St Francis Rum River libraries.
- CARVER COUNTY LIBRARY: Chanhassen, Chaska, Victoria & Waconia branch libraries.
- DAKOTA COUNTY LIBRARY: Burnsville Burnhaven, South St Paul & West St Paul Wentworth libraries.
- HENNEPIN COUNTY LIBRARY: Champlin, Minneapolis Webber Park & Minnetonka branch libraries.
- RAMSEY COUNTY LIBRARY: North St Paul branch library.
- ST PAUL PUBLIC LIBRARY: Dayton’s Bluff & West Seventh branch libraries.
- WASHINGTON COUNTY LIBRARY: Cottage Grove Park Grove, Stillwater & Woodbury RH Stafford library branches.
SPECIAL FEATURE! storytime at RED BALLOON BOOKSHOP
891 Grand Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55105
We love to feature independent bookshops and encourage you to explore and support them. Red Balloon offers baby & toddler storytime each Wednesday. Get there early for the best seating! September 21, 2022, 10:30am.
More family fun ideas for Wednesday:
StarWars Stormtrooper Meet & Greet at Mall of america
Hey StarWars fans! MOA is hosting a meet & greet with stormtroopers in celebration of the three-episode premiere of ANDOR on Disney+ September 21. Meets from 4-4:30 & 5-5:30pm. FREE.
Where can I see the trains on Wednesday?
Mid-week is excellent to spot trains in the Twin Cities if that’s what your little ones (or big ones) are into. Here’s a handful of places to consider; plan ahead and find more on our article MINNEAPOLIS-ST PAUL, A TRAIN LOVERS DESTINATION:
- TOTS & TRAINS AT JACKSON STREET ROUNDHOUSE – Play at the train tables, run through a read train car, hear a train-themed story and more. Located in St Paul. September 21, 2022. $7-$11/pp or $30/family.
- GAMES GALORE AT UNION DEPOT – Play life-sized versions of favorite games like chess & Connect Four in the historic depot, then watch some of the modern trains roll in outside. September 21, 10am-8pm. FREE.
- HISTORIC WAYZATA DEPOT MUSEUM – Explore the hands-on exhibits in the depot and play I-Spy with the miniature train outside! Open Wednesdays in September, 12-4pm. FREE.
FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE TWIN CITIES ON THURSDAY, September 22, 2022
TOT TIME OPEN GYM ON THURSDAYS:
- APPLE VALLEY – MILLZ HOUSE (Open play 9am-4pm, $6/pp)
- EAGAN COMMUNITY CENTER (Blast & Play, 9am-12pm, $5/child)
- MINNEAPOLIS PARKS & REC (See schedule for locations, FREE)
- ST PAUL RECREATION CENTERS (See schedule for locations, FREE)
Twin Cities Storytimes on Thursday:
- ANOKA COUNTY LIBRARY: Blaine Northtown libraries, Circle Pines Centennial & St Francis Rum River libraries.
- CARVER COUNTY LIBRARY: Chanhassen & Waconia branch libraries.
- DAKOTA COUNTY LIBRARY: Apple Valley Wescott, Farmington, Inver Hills Inver Glen, Rosemount Robert Trail & West St Paul Wentworth libraries.
- HENNEPIN COUNTY LIBRARY: Edina, Maple Grove, Minneapolis Hosmer & Wayzata branch libraries.
- RAMSEY COUNTY LIBRARY: New Brighton & Roseville branch libraries.
- ST PAUL PUBLIC LIBRARY: George Latimer & Sunray branch libraries.
- WASHINGTON COUNTY LIBRARY: Cottage Grove Park Grove, Forest Lake Hardwood Creek, Stillwater & Woodbury RH Stafford library branches.
MORE Thursday fun in twin cities parks:
Family Nature Time at Westwood Hills Nature Center
8300 W. Franklin Ave, St Louis Park MN, 55426
Aimed at kids ages 2-5, each themed month includes indoor and outdoor exploration time, stories, games and nature education. Register in advance on their website. September 22, 2022, 10-11am. $5-$6/pp, child & adult pay.
LIL’ EXPLORER THURSDAYS AT COMO ZOO
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, 1225 Estabrook Dr, St Paul, MN 55103
The beloved (at least by my family) preschool program is finally back offering weekly themed activities to the 4-and-under set. Think sand tables, sponge painting, worm digs and storytimes. Remember, a reservation to visit the Zoo is free, but required. September 22, 2022, 10am-12pm.
GARDEN STORYTIME AT ELOISE BUTLER WILDFLOWER GARDEN
1 Theodore Wirth Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN 55405
A naturalist hosts a different nature themed story each week within the Garden followed by an activity. Meet just outside the Visitor Shelter. Bring a blanket to sit on. September 22, 2022, 10am, FREE.
More family fun ideas for Thursday:
FREE THURSDAY NIGHT AT AMERICAN SWEDISH INSTITUTE
2600 Park Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55407
Have your kids ever thought it would be awesome to explore a castle? Here’s their chance (and yours) while the very family-friendly AMERICAN SWEDISH INSTITUTE offers FREE admission every Thursday after 3pm. There is a rotating family gallery kids will enjoy playing in and nooks and crannies to explore. September 22, 2022.
PAIR A VISIT WITH DINNER: Our kids have enjoyed the Swedish meatballs at FIKA Cafe in the museum. Plus happy hour pricing from 3 until 8 p.m. on Thursdays.
Fun things to do in the Twin cities on Friday, September 23, 2022
TOT TIME OPEN GYMS ON FRIDAY:
- APPLE VALLEY COMMUNITY CENTER (9-11am, $15/membership pass or drop in option)
- APPLE VALLEY – MILLZ HOUSE (Open play 9am-4pm, $6/pp)
- BURNSVILLE – IGM GYMNASTICS (Ages 1-6, 9:30-11:30am, $10/child)
- EAGAN – GLEASON’S GYMNASTICS (K & under, 9:30-11:30am, pre-register for discount of $8/child or $10/family)
- ST PAUL RECREATION CENTERS (See schedule for locations, FREE)
ROCKIN JUMP JUNIOR JUMPERS
Rockin Jump Trampoline Park, 2015 Silver Bell Road, Suite 195, Eagan, MN 55122
Kids up to 6 years get a special jump time separate from the big kids. Yours will love the trampolines, foam pit and soft play area as much as mine do! September 23, 2022, 2-hr sessions starting at 9 & 10am. $12/child plus $3 re-useable jump socks.
Twin Cities Storytimes on Friday:
- ANOKA COUNTY LIBRARY: Blaine Northtown & Fridley Mississippi libraries.
- CARVER COUNTY LIBRARY: Norwood Young America & Waconia branch libraries.
- DAKOTA COUNTY LIBRARY: Apple Valley Wescott, Farmington & Inver Hills Inver Glen libraries.
- HENNEPIN COUNTY LIBRARY: Minneapolis Penn Lake & Walker branch libraries.
- RAMSEY COUNTY LIBRARY: White Bear Lake branch library.
- ST PAUL PUBLIC LIBRARY: Merriam Park & St Anthony Park branch libraries.
- WASHINGTON COUNTY LIBRARY: Cottage Grove Park Grove & Lake Elmo library branches.
More family fun ideas for Friday:
VISIT A TWIN CITIES APPLE ORCHARD
Apple-picking could make a picture-perfect family fall outing. Browse our list of the BEST TWIN CITIES APPLE ORCHARDS to get planning for a sweet time. This week, our featured apple orchard is AFTON APPLE ORCHARD. There is lots to do here that is included with the admission fee ($5-$7/pp) such as the playground, huge tire mountain and petting farm. We’ve easily made a full day of it just with those diversions and riding the hay wagon into the orchard to pick apples. Open Fridays 10am-6pm.
Free Fun Friday at Gammelgarden Museum
20880 Olinda Trail N, Scandia, MN 55073
You don’t need to take a formal tour to enjoy the outdoor GAMMELGARDEN MUSEUM in Scandia (but they’re available FREE today if you’d like.) Kids will enjoy roaming the grounds to see how many colorful Dala horses they can find. September 23, 2022, tour at 1:30pm.
FREE Outdoor MOVIES!
The days where we can stay out later may be numbered, but there’s still time to pack a blanket and snacks and settle in for a movie in the park. What’s screening this Friday?
- BASS CREEK PARK, BROOKLYN PARK: Movie in the Park: Luca, 8:45pm, FREE.
ST PAUL MOVIES IN THE PARK: Napoleon Dynamite screened at Harriet Island Park. Activities begin at 6:3opm.
FUN THINGS TO DO THIS WEEKEND IN THE TWIN CITIES, SEPTEMBER 24-25, 2022
Too many fun things to list here, I’ll tell you that. So we publish a separate guide each weekend with up-to-the-last-minute ideas for spending family time together. Here’s a sneak peek of what to look forward to this weekend in the Twin Cities:
- FALCON HEIGHTS: GIBBS FARM APPLE FESTIVAL
- ST LOUIS PARK: ROCTOBERFEST
- PLYMOUTH: BRUSHES ON THE BOARDWALK INTERACTIVE ART EVENT
- WOODBURY: BIG TRUCK DAY