Head to Lake Calhoun for some fun in the sun. Splash around in the lake with the kids, canoe together, watch the kids from a distance as you windsurf or even teach them how to ride - that's just the tip of the iceberg for family fun at the lake. If you're looking to stay dry, take a scenic walk around the lake. Whatever you do, don't forget the sunscreen!
Stroll through the Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary and take in all the beauty and floral attractions that Mother Nature has to offer. While walking the area and the 2/3 mile trail, you'll see over 500 plant species and 130 different birds. The 15-acre garden harkens back to 1907 and is said to be the oldest public wildflower garden in the nation.
Make a trip to Minnehaha Park and explore the 193-acres of one of Minneapolis' oldest parks. The park overlooks the Mississippi River and Minnehaha Falls. If you're not too busy using the park's hiking and biking trails, hang out at the Wabun picnic area and enjoy relaxing in the wading pool, playing disc golf, volleyball, or a picnic with the family.
Head to one of the eight units of the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge. This natural attraction stretches along 34 miles of the Minnesota River, making it the largest American national wildlife refuge near an urban area. Certain areas of the refuge allow hiking, biking, skiing, fishing, hunting, and birdwatching.
Hang out with monkeys, flamingos, tigers, moose, and crocodiles at the Minnesota Zoo. While strolling through the exhibits and attractions, you'll see about 4,000 animals - sounds like a daunting task but you'll be having a blast and at the end of the day, you'll be wondering where the time went! There is so much to learn about the animals at the zoo, making the visit an educational and fun experience.
Get a closer look at the creatures of the ocean by exploring the exhibits and attractions at the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium. While peeking in the tanks, you'll see jellyfish, clownfish, sharks, stingrays, seahorses, octopuses, sea turtles, and much more. Be sure to visit the touch tanks for a hands on experience, and walk through the ocean tunnel - it allows you to get a look at ocean life from the inside, out!