Minnesota Summer Family Bucket List

With exciting outdoor adventures and amazing museums, Minnesota is full of ways to celebrate summer together as a family. This summer, we encourage you to take the time previously devoted to school, sports, and other activities and spend it together as a family. Here are some of our favorite activities to add to your Minnesota summer bucket list!

The Como Zoo

The Como Zoo in St. Paul features both indoor and outdoor exhibits including giraffes, polar bears, large cats, an ape house, and sea lions. Next to the zoo is Marjorie McNeely Conservatory that has seasonal and tropical flowers and plants. The Como Zoo is completely free, but donations are accepted.

Minneapolis Institute of Arts

The Minneapolis Institute of Art consists of over 90,000 works of art covering over 5,000 years and six continents. Located just south of Minneapolis, MIA is a must-visit for the family! Admission is free, but advanced reservations are required to tour.

Superior Hiking Trail

The scenic 310 mile Superior Hiking Trail is perfect for a daytime adventure or a week-long backpacking trip. The trail is easy to navigate and goes all the way from Jay Cooke State Park at Lake Superior’s southern tip to the Canadian border. It’s the perfect summer adventure!

Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center

The Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center offers a fantastic voyage into the history of the Great Lakes. Stop by and be amazed by the vessels operating on the Great Lakes and the history behind it all! The museum is free and includes interactive displays and exhibits.