Twin Cities Southeast Metro: Things To Do This Summer – Covering the Twin Cities, Minnesota, communities of Apple Valley, Burnsville, Cottage Grove, Eagan, Inver Grove Heights, Mendota Heights, Rosemount & Woodbury.
Twin Cities Southeast Metro summer events 2024
School’s out and your family is just itching to explore beyond the backyard. We have the scoop on your community entertainment – live music in the parks, family festivals, swimming and splash pads, the puppet wagon and lots more to keep you busy this summer.
Not the Twin Cities community you’re searching for? We’re also covering events in the following areas:
Get started planning your best summer!
Everything under the sun you need to know about family fun this summer in the Twin Cities. Beat boredom and fill your long school break days exploring the best the Twin Cities has to offer in the way of parks, swim spots, community entertainment and local festivals with our Ultimate Summer Events Guide.
- APPLE VALLEY -
Summer fun in Apple Valley parksÂ
Music in Kelley Park
6855 Fortino St, Apple Valley, MN 55124
Free summer concerts in the park, food available for purchase, prizes and an animal-themed splash pad for the kids to cool off in. Starts mid-June, 2024. Ongoing Fridays, 6-9pm.
MORE FUN FOR KIDS IN APPLE VALLEY PARKS
- APPLE VALLEY PUPPET WAGON: Visits 20 Apple Valley parks over the course of the week – Mon-Fri followed by a traveling puppet wagon show craft. Please check the link for parks & times. June 10- August 16, 2024.
- SUMMER PARKS PLAYGROUND PROGRAM – Six sessions this summer just $9/session for supervised programming 4 days per week at two Apple Valley parks: CEDAR ISLE PARK & WILDWOOD PARK. Participants should be between -11 years of age. Please see the link for the details. June 17-August 8, 2024. 9am-12pm.
- FAMILY OUTDOOR STORYTIME – Stories for toddlers and preschoolers at KELLEY PARK. Tuesdays, June 13-July 25, 2023. (No July 4) 9:30am. FREE.
Apple Valley summer festival
Apple Valley Freedom Days
Carnival, Music in the Park, Family Fun Night and the Freedom Days Parade are all parts of the city’s annual summer festival leading up to Independence Day. June 28-July 4, 2024.
Apple Valley swimming pools
Apple Valley Family Aquatic Center
14421 Johnny Cake Ridge Rd., Apple Valley, MNÂ 55124
The outdoor swimming facility includes multiple waterslides, a diving well and a lazy river for soaking up the sun. A new “spray ground” opened a couple summers ago. Open June 6 – August 21, 2024. $13/pp.
Redwood Community Outdoor Pool
311 150th St. W. Apple Valley, MNÂ 55124
A smaller and less expensive outdoor swimming option than the Aquatic Center. Open June 6-August 21, 2024, 12:30-4pm daily. Just $6/pp.Â
Apple Valley summer library events
The GALAXIE LIBRARY is a branch of the Dakota County Library system. We recommend this library for its creative Play and Learn Space. See the library events calendar for upcoming summer programs.
Summer reading program: Read, write, draw and play during Summer Discovery, starting June 12, 2023.
- BURNSVILLE -
Summer fun in Burnsville parksÂ
Want to get out and play in Burnsville parks this summer? Great idea to get moving! Try starting with our list of the best: BURNSVILLE FAMILY FUN – 9 Fun Parks To Explore This Summer.
Nicollet Commons Park
12550 Nicollet Ave, Burnsville, MN 55337
The public space is part of the area Burnsville calls the “Heart of the City“. Families will love the park’s amphitheater where the city hosts summer concerts, movies and story times. There is also room to picnic and a beautiful water feature to splash in.
Â
Summer activities at Nicollet Commons Park:
Friday Night Flicks on the Bricks screens free outdoor movies in Nicollet Commons park:
June 21: Grease
July 26: Wonka
August 9: Jurassic Park (plus pre-show entertainment)
 7:30pm seating, show at dusk.
Shrek Jr! The Musical performed in the park with an all-youth cast. July 25, 2024, 12-1pm. FREE.
Â
Thursday Rockin Lunch Hour concerts – bring a picnic lunch and swimsuits to enjoy the landscaped splash pad! June 13-August 15, 2024.
Terrace Oaks Nature Play Area
12700-12750 Co Rd 11, Burnsville, MN 55337
Burnsville’s first official nature play area offers features that include painted animal tracks to follow, tree cookies and sticks for building, logs and rocks for climbing and jumping and log trails. FIND MORE NATURE PLAYGROUNDS IN THE TWIN CITIES SOUTHEAST METRO.
Burnsville summer festivals
Burnsville Party on the Plaza
Nicollet Commons Park
A day-long community event with live music, craft vendors, kids’ activities and more. June 6, July 11 & August 22, 2024.
International Festival of Burnsville
Nicollet Commons Park
Features events that will appeal to families such as crafts, cuisine and cultural entertainment. July 20, 2024, 3-9pm.
Burnsville swimming & beaches
Crystal Beach Park
1101 Crystal Lake Rd E, Burnsville, MN 55306
The park is located on an isthmus between Crystal & Keller Lakes in Burnsville. Its highlight is a swimming beach open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. The park has a concession stand where visitors can rent canoes or paddle boards. Other family-friendly amenities include a large playground, space to picnic, and a hard-surface trail.
Burnsville splash pads
- BURNSVILLE LIONS PLAYGROUND splash pad (located in Cliff Fen Park– 120 Cliff Rd E, Burnsville, MN 55337)
- NICOLLET COMMONS PARK operates a gorgeous, landscaped water feature (weather dependent). Pick a Thursday for Thursday Rockin’ Lunch Hours in Nicollet Commons Park beginning in June.
Burnsville summer library events
The BURNHAVENÂ LIBRARY is a branch of the Dakota County Library system. See the library events calendar for upcoming summer programs.
Summer reading program: Read, write, draw and play during Summer Discovery, starting June 2024.
- COTTAGE GROVE -
Summer fun in Cottage Grove parks
Highlands Park
6975 Idsen Ave S, Cottage Grove, MN 55016
Home of Cottage Grove’s splash pad and some sweet, creative structures that are perfect for preschool play.
Cottage Grove summer festival
Strawberry Fest
9195 75th St S, Cottage Grove, MN 55016
Cottage Grove celebrates in Kingston Park with a free kids tractor pedal pull, free petting farm, carnival, annual Monster Bash Parade, fireworks, hot air balloon rides, Water Wars water balloon stations and more. June 20-23, 2024
Cottage Grove bike trails
Cottage Grove Bike Park
West Draw Park, 7050 Meadow Grass Ave S, Cottage Grove, MN 55016
Currently recruiting all mountain biking enthusiasts – the bike park is 2.4-acres of fun: a pump track, dirt jumps, skills area and a four-cross track. But please be warned, most of the park is not for beginners. Admission is free.
Cottage Grove summer library events
The PARK GROVE LIBRARY is a branch of the Washington County Library system. We recommend this library for its preschool-friendly Play and Learn Space. They also offer preschool story times and preschool drop-in play times. See the library events calendar for upcoming summer programs.
Summer reading program: Summer Adventures at Your Libary.
- EAGAN -
Summer fun in Eagan parks
Want to get out and play in Eagan parks this summer? Excellent idea! Try starting with our carefully curated list of the best (yes, we kid-tested each one!): Eagan Family Fun: 10 Best Parks in Eagan to Explore This Summer.
Eagan Market Fest
1507 Central Pkwy, Eagan, MN 55121
The Eagan Central Park grounds buzz with weekly concerts and themed nights including one devoted solely to families. Get some fresh produce and let the kids enjoy the splash pad – located next to a fun outdoor challenge course! Ongoing Wednesdays, 4-8pm starting June 5, 2024.
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
860 Cliff Rd, Eagan, MN 55123
Lebanon Hills Regional Park is the largest park in the Dakota County park system. Bring your family for miles of trails, lakes, swimming, camping and free nature programs. We personally recommend swimming at Schulze Lake Beach (pictured) and hiking the Jensen Lake Trail with kids.
SPECIAL EVENT! Forever Wild Family Friday – free family programming in Lebanon Hills. July 12, 2024, 6-7:30pm.Â
MORE SUMMER FUN FOR KIDS IN EAGAN PARKS
Spark! Mobile Puppet Wagon
Bring a blanket for the 20-minute shows, spread throughout ten of Eagan’s parks and the Westcott Library. Mon-Fri starting June 17-August 2, 2024. FREE.
Spark! In the Park
Puppets and live musical performances in Eagan parks and CAPONI ART PARK. Thursdays, June 20-August 1, 2024. 6:15pm. FREE.
Patrick Eagan Park Nature Play AreaÂ
3995 Lexington Ave S, Eagan, MN 55123
This park combines elements of traditional playground equipment — like a zipline and climbing webs – with natural elements.
Eagan summer festivals
Eagan LakeFest
Blackhawk Park, 1629 Murphy Parkway, Eagan MN
Activity booths centered around fishing and live reptiles, nature coloring pages, kids plays about protecting lakes, and a visit from the Fire Department’s rescue boats. Fishing equipment provided. June 20, 2024, 5-7pm. FREE.
July 4th Funfest
Eagan Community Center Festival Grounds, 1501 Central Pkwy, Eagan, MN 55121
Independence Day in Eagan done right with a parade, carnival, music and fireworks. July 2-4, 2024.
Eagan swimming & beaches
Schulze Lake Beach
860 Cliff Road, Eagan, MN 55123Â
The tranquil, sandy swimming beach is just one of the gems in LEBANON HILLS REGIONAL PARK. We’ve included in on our list of the top picks for beaches in the Twin Cities.
Cascade Bay Water Park
1360 Civic Center Dr, Eagan, MN 55122
The outdoor destination water park in Eagan includes zero depth entry and a splashy play area for little ones, large leisure pool, the lazy river tube ride, Sandpiper Beach, seven waterslides and a miniature golf course. Little Mates Preschool Swim offers exclusive water time to children 0-6 years old between 9:30 and 10:30 a.m., every day except Wednesdays, $6/child. Opens June 7, 2024. Purchase either a half-day or all-access day pass, $13-$19/pp.
Eagan historic sites
Holz Farm Park
4665 Manor Dr, Eagan, MN 55123
At historic Holz Farm, visitors can experience what life was like on the farm between the Great Depression of the 1930s through the 1940s World War II era. A number of special events are held at the park throughout the year. Expect down-on-the farm fun with a little bit of history mixed in.
- OLD FASHIONED PICNIC – Bring a picnic out to the farm and learn how ice cream was made in the 1940’s. June 8, 2024, 5:30-7:30pm. FREE.
- VISITING AT THE FARM: COOKIES & QUILTS – Special cookies in the farmhouse and beautiful quilts on display. August 18, 2024, 2-4pm, FREE.
Eagan summer library events
The WESCOTT LIBRARY is a branch of the Dakota County Library system. The library is large, bright with murals and packed with interactive materials for kids. See the library events calendar for upcoming summer programs.
Summer reading program: Read, write, draw and play during Summer Discovery, starting June 2024.
- HASTINGS -
Summer fun in Hastings parksÂ
Hastings is a beautiful city to explore in the summertime. You could spend time exploring parks along the Mississippi or move a few blocks into the city to find a surprisingly powerful waterfall and a deep river gorge. Many of these city and regional parks are included on our list of the BEST THINGS TO DO IN HASTINGS, MINNESOTA, WITH KIDS.
Levee Park Summer Events
20 Ramsey St. Hastings MN
LEVEE PARK is front and center on the river and a hub of summer entertainment starting with a kickoff party on June 6 complete with music, live raptor shows, food trucks and free kids activities. Then, a full lineup of FREE fun including:
- Music in the Park – Thursdays, June -August, 2024. 7pm.
- Movies in the Park – one Friday/month June-September 2024, start times vary.
- Storytime in the Park – one Wednesday/month June-September 2024, 11:15am.
- Performances in the Park – kids entertainment one Tuesday/month June-September 2024. 6pm.
Carpenter Nature Center
12805 St Croix Trail S, Hastings, MNÂ 55033
Perched on bluffland north of the junction between the St. Croix and Mississippi Rivers, hiking trails wind throughout the pines, savanna, prairies, ravines, an apple orchard, and along the river. Kids will also enjoy the indoor exhibits at the nature center.
Hastings bike trails
A scenic 10-mile loop circles the city of Hastings. We biked the circuit after planning the route with this map.Â
Hastings summer festival
Hastings Rivertown Days
Levee Park & Jaycee Park, Hastings MN
Family-friendly events at the city’s summer festival include a carnival, live music and family events around Hastings. July 19-21, 2024.
Hastings swimming & beaches
Hastings Family Aquatic Center
901 Maple St, Hastings, MN 55033
Fun features at the pool include zero-depth entry and a water play area for the littlest swimmers, two substantial slides for the bigger ones, and umbrellas and deck chairs for those who need a break. Open June 7-August 25, 2024. Admission ranges from $5-$9 from 12- 5pm. Or, choose to swim Tuesday or Thursday when the pool closes at 5pm and all ages pay $7/pp.
Point Douglas Park & Beach
14593-14741 Point Douglas Dr S, Hastings, MN 55033
For those hoping for more of a traditional summer beach swim, try this simple sandy spot. The park sits on the St. Croix River, just above its confluence with the Mississippi. FFTC’s own Joy P. says her family enjoys this park for short picnic stops on their way to Wisconsin. Admission to the beach is free.
- INVER GROVE HEIGHTS -
Summer fun in Inver Grove Heights parksÂ
Need inspiration to get out and play in Inver Grove Heights parks this summer? We certainly gave our own tour a big thumbs up. Read all about it on our list of the 10 Best Parks in Inver Grove Heights & South St Paul.
Inver Groove Music in the Parks
South Valley Park, 2810 70th St E, Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
Formerly known as Terrific Tuesdays, the name has changed but the kid-friendly musical entertainment hasn’t. Bring your blanket or chairs and a picnic lunch. Select Tuesdays June 25-August 6, 2024, 10:30am. FREE.
INVER GROOVE SCHEDULE
June 25: Will Hale & the Tadpole Parade
July 9: Tricia & the Toonies
July 16: The Bazillions
July 23: Todd ‘n Tina
July 30: Will Sings Songs
August 6: Riffin’ Griffin
Inver Grove Heights summer festival
Inver Grove Heights Food Truck Days
Rich Valley Athletic Complex, 1841 105th St E, Inver Grove Heights, MN 55077
The trucks roll in for food and family fun, music and entertainment. July 18, 2024, 4-8pm.Â
Inver Grove Heights bike trails
Harmon Park Reserve
1642 Upper 55th Street East, Inver Grove Heights MN
It’s the best in the Heights – the family will love the 4.3 mile mountain biking course that winds through Harmon Park.
Mississippi River Greenway
The paved bike trail makes its way south into Inver Grove Heights from South St Paul. Jump on at the Kaposia Landing trailhead and coast along the Mississippi to the historic Rock Island Swing Bridge in SWING BRIDGE PARK, Inver Grove Heights. A one-way trip is 7 miles.
Inver Grove Heights summer library events
The INVER GLEN LIBRARY is a branch of the Dakota County Library system. See the library events calendar for upcoming summer programs.
Summer reading program: Read, write, draw and play during Summer Discovery, starting June 2024.
- MENDOTA HEIGHTS/WEST ST PAUL -
Summer fun in Mendota Heights parks
Mendota Heights Music in the Park
720 Main St, Mendota Heights, MN 55118
Live, outdoor music in Market Square Park, generally the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month this summer (with a few exceptions, please see the calendar). May 15-August 21, 2024. 6-7:30pm. FREE.
Mendota Heights & West St Paul Tour de Rec
Drop in to Mendota Heights and West St Paul parks for this FREE program on select Tuesdays. Park staff will provide activities and equipment, including games, sports, arts, crafts, and more. Best for ages 6-12. June 11-August 6, 2024. 1:30-2:30pm.
- ROSEMOUNT -
Summer fun in Rosemount parksÂ
Kids Music in the Park
Rosemount Central Park, 2893 145th St W, Rosemount, MN 55068
Kids entertainment weekly culminating in a free summer celebration at the splash pad. Thursdays, June 6 – July 18, 2024, 10am.
Puppets in the Park
The Rosemount Puppet Wagon travels to four local parks to perform their shows for kids. Fridays, June 21-August 2, 2024, 9:30-11:45am.
KIDS MUSIC IN THE PARK SCHEDULE
June 6: Wonderful World of Woody
June 13: Wendy’s Wiggle Jiggle & Jam
June 20: Sticks & Tone
June 27: Bob the Beachcomber
July 11: The Bazillions
July 18: Royal Order of Chords & Keys (plus a free summer celebration, 11am-12pm)
Thursdays, 10am
Movie in the Park
 August 2024. TBD
Rosemount summer festivals
Leprechaun Days
Celebrate with Midsummer Faire in Central Park, the Grand Day Parade and Family Fun Night. July 20-27, 2024.
Rosemount summer library events
The ROBERT TRAIL LIBRARY is a branch of the Dakota County Library system. See the library events calendar for upcoming summer programs.
Summer reading program: 2024’s program is Summer Discovery.
- WOODBURY -
Summer fun in Woodbury parksÂ
Woodbury parks have much to explore – get started with our list of 19 of the best Woodbury has to offer this summer.
SPECIAL FUN FOR KIDS IN WOODBURY PARKS
FUN IN OJIBWAY PARK
Storytime in the Park
Aimed at toddlers and preschoolers – stories, songs and rhymes with Washington County Library. Fridays, June 14-August 16, 2024. 10am, FREE.
Starlight Cinema Outdoor Series
The free outdoor movie series is hosted at OJIBWAY PARK. Five dates: June 13 & 27, July 25 and August 8, 2024. Activities start at 7pm
.
WOODBURY PUPPET WAGONÂ travels around to more than 20 Woodbury parks with fun puppet shows. See link for schedule. Ongoing Mon-Thurs, June 10-August 8, 2024.
Woodbury summer festivals
Woodbury Days
Ojibway Park, 2695 Ojibway Dr, Woodbury, MN 55125
Buttons required for many events ($5/pp or $15/4-pack – children’s coin hunts, workshops and art activities), petting zoo, magic shows and Grande Parade. Learn more at the page. August 23-25, 2024.
Woodbury 4th of July Hometown Celebration
4125 Radio Dr, Woodbury, MN 55129
Fireworks at M Health Fairview Sports Center, 10pm.Â
Woodbury swimming & beaches
Carver Lake Park
3175 Century Ave S, Woodbury, MN 55125
Offers a family-friendly swimming beach along with a volleyball court, a picnic area, an accessible playground, and a 5 1/2 mile bike trail (hilly in many spots). This park hosts a family campout June 28-29, 2024, $25/pp.
M Health Fairview Sports Center Splash pad
4125 Radio Dr, Woodbury, MN 55125
A splash pad and MADISON’S PLACE PLAYGROUND combine to create one of the most popular playgrounds in the metro. Madison’s Place is an all-inclusive playground with sun-shaded play decks, swings, sensory play equipment and ramps for wheelchair access.
Woodbury summer library events
The RH STAFFORD LIBRARY is a branch of the Washington County Library system and is located in lovely indoor Central Park. (Tip: if you need some AC this summer, combine a trip to the library with a run around LOOKOUT RIDGE INDOOR PLAYGROUND, also calling Central Park home.) The library’s summer events can be found online here.
Summer reading program: Summer Adventures at Your Library.Â
150+ things to do this summer in the Twin Cities with kids!
Drop us a comment if you are aware of something else in the Twin Cities Northwest Metro that we missed. We will share it with the community.