Minnesota may be known for its outdoor beauty, but when the weather turns cold or rainy, there’s still plenty of indoor fun to be had. Whether you’re looking for activities for kids, family fun, or a creative way to spend your day, the state offers numerous indoor attractions to explore. Here are some great spots to check out when you want to stay warm and dry!
If you have young children with a lot of energy to burn, Whitney Center’s Kindergym is a fantastic place to spend a few hours. This indoor play area is specifically designed for toddlers and preschoolers, offering a safe and fun environment for them to climb, jump, and explore. From soft mats to tunnels and balls, Kindergym is perfect for kids to get their wiggles out while staying warm inside. It’s a popular spot for parents and caregivers during colder months, offering a great way for little ones to stay active.
Why it’s great: It’s a safe, indoor space for young kids to play and develop motor skills while parents can relax and supervise. The space is also ideal for playdates, as children can interact and socialize with others.
Tip: Check their schedule, as Kindergym may only be available at specific times during the week.
The Lake George Municipal Complex is another excellent indoor destination in Minnesota. While the outdoor lake is a highlight in warmer months, the complex itself offers a playroom with plenty of toddler toys to keep the little ones busy.
When kids need a break from screen time, Rainbow Play Systems offers an excellent indoor play option. This location features a showroom of swing sets and play systems, but the fun part is that kids can play on the equipment! It’s like an indoor playground filled with slides, swings, and climbing structures. Open play sessions are available, allowing children to explore and enjoy the equipment in a safe, indoor environment.
Why it’s great: It’s a fun way for kids to experience playground fun, no matter the weather outside. Parents can supervise while kids enjoy hours of entertainment on high-quality play equipment.
Tip: Open play hours can vary, so check the schedule before you go to ensure availability.
Beyond these great options, Minnesota has plenty of other indoor activities to explore. Museums like the Science Museum of Minnesota and the Minnesota Children’s Museum offer interactive exhibits that are both fun and educational. For those looking for a little retail therapy, the Mall of America in Bloomington provides an entire day’s worth of entertainment, from shopping and dining to amusement park rides inside Nickelodeon Universe. Indoor climbing gyms, trampoline parks, and bowling alleys are also popular spots for family fun or outings with friends.
In conclusion, when the weather outside isn’t cooperating, there’s no shortage of things to do indoors in Minnesota. From the engaging play areas at Whitney Center Kindergym and Rainbow Play Systems to the versatility of the Lake George, there’s an abundance of indoor options for all ages. So next time it’s too cold or wet outside, head to one of these great spots and enjoy a day of fun without stepping outdoors!
North Crest Activity Center Trunk or Treat is a fun yearly event located in Sauk Rapids, MN. This yearly event is one of the best Trunk or Treats we’ve been to with several great perks! Trick or Treat, Open Gym and several large vehicles are all available at this yearly event. A great Halloween event for kids of all ages.
Marcus Theater Summer Film Series is the perfect cure for hot summer days. Every Sunday, Monday & Wednesday at 10:00 am during June, July & August, this film series is designed with children in mind! Click through to find out how to get FREE tickets!
Whitney Center KinderGym is an indoor kids play option in St. Cloud, Minnesota. A full sized basketball court with a small bounce house, toys and balls all available for your child to play with. Play with the provided toys or bring your own! This is a great indoor play date option!
Lake George Municipal Complex offers a variety of amenities free to the public. The Lake George Indoor play area is ideally for children 0-6 years old and free to use! There are also meeting rooms, free Wi-Fi, couches, and a place to work or study.
Jack Splash Open Swim is one of Sartell, Minnesota’s greatest secrets! With a 90*F pool that reaches a depth between 3 – 4 feet, this is a great place to burn off some of that winter energy! Offered during the winter months, this place gets two thumbs up from us!
Rainbow Play Systems in St. Cloud, MN offers an indoor play option during the winter months! Trampoline, basketball hoop and multiple swing sets all inside will keep your kids busy for hours! When it comes to things to do in St. Cloud, MN, this place is a favorite family activity!
If you don’t have time to hit the gym and want great summer abs, try this Easy 10 Minute Ab Workout! You can do it anywhere! 10 different exercises for 1 minute each is all you need for perfect abs!
Home Depot Kids Workshops are free, fun and happen monthly! This step by step guide on all the questions you have will help you experience this fun event with your children. Come, build and learn at this free event in Minnesota.
The Sartell Community Center offers a fun, indoor playground for kids all year round. This inside playground is perfect for toddlers and children of all ages! Free to use and available to rent for birthday parties!
Waffle It Resaturant in St. Cloud, MN makes for a great play date restaurant! Offering a fun play corner for kids with toys, this restaurant has it all. Well, except for one thing. This eat and play restaurant offers a unique collection of waffles that kids and adults go nuts for!
Winter means all things snowman! This Paper Plate Snowman Craft is easy and perfect little or big kids! A fun home school idea or Winter break craft, your kids will love how fun and easy these are to recreate!
Granite City Gymnastics in the St. Cloud, MN metropolitan area is a fun indoor winter activity! Children and parents alike can run, jump, bounce and cartwheel to their hearts content in this fun winter destination!
The Underground Bowling Alley is a hidden gem on St. Cloud State University’s Campus on the lower level of the Atwood Memorial Center. This buried bowling alley offers all of the same amenities as a typical bowling alley for a cheaper price!
The St. Cloud Mall is a go to destination for kids of all ages! Offering a kid friendly play area with soft, climbable structures. Also known as Crossroads Center or Crossroads Mall, it is a perfect place to hang out between shopping, on a rainy day or during a snow storm!