0 In 2025/ Free stuff/ Parent Tip/ Raising boys/ Things to do in Minnesota

Play Like it’s 1985: Screen-Free Summer Fun

School’s out… and the screens are calling...

Kids don’t actually need screens to have fun (shocker!). They need space to explore, create, and connect. Whether you’re looking to cut back on screen time or just add more balance to your family’s routine, here are screen-free activities that inspire joy, movement, and imagination.

1. Have a “What’s in the Box” Challenge

George and Clark: What’s in the Box Challenge

Cut holes a in box
Choose an item to put inside
Allow someone to reach their hand inside the box and “guess” what it is.
Take turns finding items to hide, then guessing “What’s in the Box?”

Want to read about the Egly boys “What’s in the Box” challenge that takes an unexpected turn? Get a copy of Turtle Trouble on Amazon by clicking here. This playful tale celebrates sibling teamwork, imagination, and adventure—perfect for young readers and their families to enjoy together!

2. Build something

The Home Depot and Lowe’s offer free monthly workshops for kids called Kids Workshops and DIY-U Kids Workshops. These workshops are designed to teach children ages 5-12 about building, crafting, and using tools, fostering creativity and practical skills. The workshops are held on the first Saturday of each month at participating stores, with The Home Depot’s workshops generally running from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Can’t join on Saturday? Home Depot has created take home kits for kids – Go to customer service to ask for one for each of your kids. My 11 year old was able to follow the simple instructions and build a battleship on his own.

3. Play a Game or Complete a Puzzle

Uno
Rat-a-tat Cat
Hide and Seek
Memory

4. Set out art supplies and CREATE!

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Set out Pencils, markers or crayons and blank paper – Set the timer for 15 minutes and encourage everyone to sit and draw. I’m amazed at some of the things they will come up with. If they don’t know what to draw, set a stuffed animal on the table or pull out a favorite book and ask their favorite page!

5. Make playdoh

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Click here for a recipe. We like to make a batch and then I give my boys ideas things to make: a snake, a snowman, a fidget spinner!

6. Balloon games

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Blow up balloons and work together to keep them from touching the ground. Or, use a tennis racket outside with balloons.

Here’s a link to 18 different balloon games.

Here’s a link to a balloon pack to add to your cart!

7. Take a bike ride or go for a walk

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Get some exercise! Go for a walk, run, bike ride!

8. Learn a Life Skill

Practice introducing yourself to strangers
Plant a Garden
Cook a Meal
Clean a room together

9. Explore and Play Outside!

Create an obstacle course in your yard. Use cones, chalk, hula hoops, or whatever’s in the garage to build a backyard challenge.
Play Soccer, sharks and minnows, kickball, or catch
Climb a tree

Click here for a post I wrote sharing three fun backyard games.

10. Build a blanket fort

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A classic rainy-day activity—perfect for reading, snacks, and make-believe adventures.

11. Lemonade stand

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Let kids practice math, creativity, and entrepreneurship with a lemonade stand!

12. Turn old boxes into games

Clark created a game called “Hit It” – Targets for Nerf Guns

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Create a maze or arcade games out of old boxes.

13. Build paper airplanes and test them

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See whose airplane flies the farthest or fastest. Bonus points for decorating!

14. Exercise or have a dance party

15. Have a picnic

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Take lunch outside for a picnic—fresh air does wonders for moods, and the best part? The crumbs stay outside!

16. Make puppets and put on a show

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Use socks, paper bags, or spoons. Then perform for the family.

Click here to buy bags

17. Read a book or write your own

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One of the best screen free activities for kids is, of course, reading – or writing!

Find a book you and your children can enjoy together this summer. My recommendation? The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. My kids were excited to listen to a new chapter each day. When we finished, Luke said, “Can we find another book just like that one?”

Buy blank books and allow kids to write their own stories or journal about their summer!

18. Sidewalk Chalk Art

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Turn your driveway into an art gallery, obstacle course, or hopscotch.

Click here to order a 64 pack of chalk!

19. Have a spa day

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Use items you have at home whether it’s face masks, cucumber slices, or nail polish. This is perfect for a relaxing afternoon or evening around the house.

20. Let them be bored

Call it “NO Tech Day” and let them figure out what to do without electronics. Their creativity will spike when they are forced to figure it out on their own. Plan for unplanned time for your kids and see what they come up with.

Click here to read more about boredom and getting rid of it!

Want more? Click here for 55 Boredom Busters!

Click here for Would you Rather!

Click here for Minute to Minute Games!

Affiliate links in post!

May 23, 2025 By Kathryn

0 In 2025/ Peek into our Week/ Raising boys/ Things to do in Minnesota/ Traveling

Life Lately: Full Hearts and Full Calendars

Spring has been full in every sense of the word—full of travel, sports, special moments with family, and glimpses of God’s goodness in the everyday. From college visits and basketball tournaments to sweet time with my sister and a meaningful Mother’s Day, these past few weeks have reminded me how precious it is to slow down and savor the people and moments that matter most.

Home Sweet Oklahoma

Over Spring Break, we spent a long weekend in Oklahoma and packed it full of goodness. It’s never enough time with family, and saying goodbye is always the hardest part. We soaked up every minute with Nana and Papa, my sisters, stepmom, and a few lifelong friends—time that truly fills the soul. There were so many laughs and memories made.

The boys loved all the classic “boy stuff”—backyard football, fishing, and a stock car race with Papa. One of the highlights was getting to see Nana’s brother, who captivated us with stories of his childhood on St. Thomas Island with Shirley. Tales of swimming with sharks and fishing adventures brought family history to life in the best way.

Spring Sport in Full Swing

Clark is playing AAU basketball with a fantastic group of boys, Paul is back on the soccer field, and Luke is back on the diamond for another season of baseball.

Basketball, Buzzer-Beaters, and Big Wins

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Ted took Clark to Iowa for an out-of-town tournament, and they came home as champions! One highlight was having friends who live in Iowa come out to cheer Clark on. Another unforgettable moment was the most exciting game of the weekend: the boys were down by three, and in the final second, Clark’s teammate made a three-point shot to send the game into overtime. With the clock winding down in OT and the score tied again, the team pulled off a Hail Mary—heaving the ball across the court to Clark’s teammate, who caught it between two defenders and nailed the game-winning layup. It was such a fun, high-energy game and a memory they won’t forget!

Watch it here:

My First Twins Game

Luke’s school reserved a section of seats for all students, so he took me to my very first Twins game. One of the highlights was getting to meet the team’s organist, who’s been playing at every game since 1999! We had a blast cheering on the team—and even better, the Twins beat the Angels!

Sisters, Sweet Tea, and Speaking at Summit

I was so honored to be the guest speaker at a ladies’ event at Summit Church in Acworth, GA. My brother-in-law is the pastor there, which makes my sister the pastor’s wife. The event was beautifully done, and the time I spent with my sister made it even more special. We shared delicious meals, sipped sweet tea, watched chick flicks, went to church together on Sunday, and explored the charming town of Woodstock. It was a weekend full of meaning, connection, and joy.

Exploring NDSU with George

I took George on his first out-of-state college visit to North Dakota State University, about 3.5 hours northwest of us. The campus was beautiful, and the staff gave an outstanding tour. We explored the impressive architecture building and the College of Business, both of which left a good impression. George was happy to learn that the meal plan includes unlimited visits to the dining hall (TBH, I was excited about this as well). He’s also pumped about the chance to attend sports games at this D1 school. NDSU is high on the list of future contenders!

A VIP Soccer Experience

Ted won four tickets through work to the Minnesota United vs. Miami soccer game. As part of the special event, Paul and Luke had the incredible opportunity to step onto the field for the National Anthem, standing in front of Lionel Messi, one of the greatest soccer players of all time. The excitement didn’t stop there—Paul was thrilled to see Justin Jefferson at the game, the Vikings wide receiver. According to Paul, Jefferson even “dabbed him up.”

God’s Good Gifts on Mother’s Day

On Mother’s Day, Clark had two basketball games (I’d love to have a word with whoever made that schedule), so Ted took him to those. But before they left, Ted woke up extra early to go pick up Starbucks coffee and a breakfast sandwich. He even set the dining table out on our back deck so I could relax with my book, coffee in hand, surrounded by morning sunshine. He also bought me beautiful flowers and had the boys write me handwritten cards—the very best kind.

While Clark was at his games, the other three boys and I went to church, then enjoyed a picnic lunch on Lake Minnetonka. We strolled around Wayzata and stopped by the old Railroad Depot, now a charming little museum. That evening, Ted picked up Mexican food (my favorite!), and we ended the day with a family dinner on the deck.

It was a truly wonderful day, and I’m so grateful—for the boys God has blessed me with, and for a husband who went out of his way to make it all so special.

This spring has reminded us of the importance of family, fun, and embracing every moment. We can’t wait to see what summer has in store!

Thanks for reading and please consider subscribing.

May 12, 2025 By Kathryn

0 In 2025/ Free stuff/ Minnesota/ Raising boys/ Things to do in Minnesota

14 Free and Family-Friendly Activities in the Twin Cities

Let’s face it—life is expensive. Between groceries, gas, and that “quick” Target run that somehow cost over $100, spending money on entertainment isn’t always in the budget. But good news! The Twin Cities are packed with amazing things to do that won’t cost you a dime.

From scenic parks to quirky museums, and even places where you can pretend to be cultured for free, here’s your ultimate guide to having fun in and around Minneapolis and St. Paul!

1. Minnehaha Falls:

Visit this beautiful urban waterfall located in Minnehaha Park. You can hike around the falls, explore trails, and have a picnic.

2. Como Park Zoo & Conservatory:

This free zoo and botanical garden in St. Paul is a great place to see animals, explore beautiful gardens, and enjoy family time.

Bonus Tip – There’s a fantastic park across the street. Click here for a peek into our visit.

3. Lake Harriet Bandshell:

In the summer, enjoy free live music and movies at the Lake Harriet Bandshell in Minneapolis. The area around the lake is also great for walking, biking, and picnicking.

4. The Chain of Lakes:

Walk, bike, or paddle around Minneapolis’ Chain of Lakes, including Lake Bde Maka Ska, Lake Harriet, and Lake of the Isles. There are beaches, playgrounds, and plenty of spots to relax.

5. Minneapolis Sculpture Garden:

Visit this outdoor art park next to the Walker Art Center. It’s home to the famous “Spoonbridge and Cherry” sculpture and offers plenty of space to explore and enjoy.

6. Walk along the Mississippi River:

Walk or bike along the Mississippi Riverfront in downtown Minneapolis or St. Paul. The Stone Arch Bridge, Mill Ruins Park, and the St. Anthony Falls area are particularly scenic.

7. Go for a Hike:

Eloise Butler Garden
Lebanon Hills
Theodore Wirth Park
Fort Snelling State Park: Located near the airport, this park offers trails, picnic spots, and historic sites. It’s free to enter by foot or bike, though there’s a fee for vehicles.

8. Minnesota History Center:

The history center provides free admission one afternoon each week. With interactive exhibits and engaging activities for the whole family, I HIGHLY recommend a visit.

9. Minneapolis Institute of Art:

Explore a wide variety of art from around the world at this museum. Admission is free every day, though special exhibits may have a fee.

Location: 2400 3rd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55404.
Phone Number: (612) 870-3000.
Website: new.artsmia.org

10. Library Hop:

Explore a wide range of libraries throughout the Twin Cities. The Stillwater library is big with a large playarea and patio looking over downtown. Many libraries have free classes, tutoring and experiences for all ages!

11. Park Hop:

Chutes ladders — Chutes and Ladders Park in Bloomington MN

Explore a wide variety of playgrounds around the Twin Cities. A few favorites:

Elm Creek Playground in Maple Grove
Steve Michaud Playground in Lakeville
French Park in Plymouth
Chutes and Ladders in Bloomington
Teddy Bear park in Stillwater
Woodhaven Park in Eagan
Grassman Park in Jordan
Wabun Picnic Area in Minnehaha Park has a great playground and a decent wading pool with waterfall feature

Bonus tip: Become a Junior Naturalist (click here for info).

12. Go for a Swim:

Explore a wide variety of public beaches around the Twin Cities.

Two options: Antlers Park in Lakeville – recently updated; and Wayzata Beach!

13. Play Ball:

There are a variety of free pickleball and tennis courts, baseball fields, batting cages, soccer fields and basketball courts around the Twin Cities.

14. Explore a Nature Center

Richardson Nature Center – The visitor center houses interactive exhibits, live critters, and expert naturalists. 8737 East Bush Lake Rd. Bloomington, 753-694-7676, threeriversparks.org

Woodlake Nature Center – The visitor center is full of interactive displays featuring more live creatures! Wood Lake Nature Center, 6710 Lake Shore Drive, Richfield Drive, 612-861-9365, richfieldmn.gov

What did I miss? Please leave a comment with free things to do in the Twin Cities! I’d love to know, and so would my readers.

Click here to read 24 Kid-Friendly Places to Visit in the Twin Cities

Mind-Bending Fun at the Museum of Illusions – A Must-Visit at Mall of America!

When I first suggested a trip to the Museum of Illusions at Mall of America, my teens weren’t exactly thrilled. “A museum?” They weren’t convinced. But the second we stepped inside, everything changed.

From the moment we walked in, they were completely hooked—calling me over to check things out, snapping photos, and constantly saying, “Whoa! Cool! Mom, look at this!” This isn’t your typical museum where you quietly observe from a distance—it’s an interactive, hands-on funhouse of mind-bending illusions that will have you questioning reality.

Walk on walls …

…. shrink and grow,

….defy gravity,

… and question reality in mind-tricking rooms.

Every corner is a new surprise, and trust me—you’ll want (and need) your camera!

✅ Perfect for all ages
✅ Great for families, friends, or date nights
✅ Absolutely worth the visit!

If you’re looking for something different and seriously FUN at MOA, add the Museum of Illusions to your list. Even the skeptics (like my teens) will leave amazed!

📍 Located at Mall of America

Teachers:

As a special thank you for their dedication and hard work, Museum of Illusions at Mall of America is offering teachers free admission during Teacher Appreciation Week and the remainder of the year with a valid school ID. Educators who visit during Teacher Appreciation Week will automatically be entered into a raffle to win a free class field trip to the Museum of Illusions Mall of America.

Click here to read my post on things to do at Mall of America besides shop

Click here for 24 FUN and Family Friendly things to do in and around the Twin Cities

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March 15, 2025 By Kathryn

0 In 2024/ Things to do in Minnesota

1. How to Host an Amazing Back Yard Birthday Party

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I know most birthday parties are held at a ‘play place’ these days, but there is something special about a backyard birthday party. Some of my favorite childhood memories involve backyard games with friends. Now I enjoy re-creating those memories with my kids and their friends. Not only are backyard parties fun and memorable, they can cost less and save you some money.

If you are considering an outdoor birthday party, click here for some tips and tricks to make it a memorable day.

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2. 24 places to explore in the Twin cities

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If you are looking for some family fun in Minnesota, this post is for you!

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3. Best Gifts for Teen Boys

Before I had teens, it was challenging for me to think of something to give them besides cash, now I have three teens and a bunch of ideas for what to gift them. Click here for ideas.

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4. Four books to read in 2024

Here are four amazing books to check out and consider reading this year.

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5. Fun and Easy Elf on the Shelf Ideas

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Parents (me included) have a love/hate relationship with the Elf on the Shelf. Our kids love it and look forward to this Christmas tradition – but the work of REMEMBERING to move him each night, and the problem of coming up with creative places to hide him, sap some of the joy out of this tradition. Many parents found this post helpful during the holidays.

6. 15 Fun Facts about Minnesota

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I had so much fun researching this post! I was surprised by how much there was to learn about Minnesota when I moved here.

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7. How Not To Hate Winter

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I spent the majority of my life dreading winter, but I’ve discovered that with the right mindset (and a few tricks), you can actually enjoy it. Click here for some tips to help shift your perspective from ‘I hate this season’ to ‘Okay, this isn’t so bad!’

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8. How to Host an Indoor or Outdoor Scavenger Hunt

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A scavenger hunt is the perfect mix of adventure, problem-solving, and excitement. Whether indoors on a rainy day or outside exploring nature, it’s a guaranteed hit! Click here to read more.

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9. 20 Free, Fun, Family-friendly Places to Visit in Colorado Springs

If you live in Colorado Springs, or are planning a trip with family, click here to see some amazing places to visit for free!

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10. 12 Verses that will help you Choose Faith over Fear

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Did you know that there are 365 verses in the Bible about fear? A verse for EVERY SINGLE day of the year! Nothing surprises God. He knew that every single day of our lives, we’d have something to fear. So, he gave us a Scripture for every day to combat our fears. Click here to see the verses.

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Thanks for reading and please consider subscribing!

Click here to read highlights and top posts from 2023.

January 7, 2025 By Kathryn

0 In 2024/ Family/ Memories/ Minnesota/ Peek into our Week/ Raising boys/ Things to do in Minnesota

Fall Break in the Twin Cities

When we moved to Minnesota I didn’t understand why people would go “up north” for vacation. Wouldn’t they want to go SOUTH and find sunshine and warm weather. Well, when I finally went “up north,” it all made sense. It’s magnificent.

As fall break approached, we thought about indulging in more of that ‘up north’ beauty. But instead, we decided to stay home, check out some local spots, and take a breather before sports and the holiday busy-ness have us running.

Here are some highlights:

Clark and Paul found recipes on TikTok. While I was working at the Artisan Home tour, they road their bikes to Aldi, bought groceries with their own money, and cooked chicken and pasta for the family! I could not have been more proud.

I took my first painting class and I loved it! I got to learn new techniques and meet some wonderful people

We made a trip to the Mall of America, where we explored the new Museum of Illusions—such a fun and mind-bending experience.

First college visit for George! We got a tour of the University of Minnesota. What a BEAUTIFUL campus.

The U of M has one of the largest campus bookstores in the county.

Beautiful historic buildings on the U of M campus!

We went to a Minnesota Timberwolves preseason game against the Denver Nuggets. Unfortunately, AntMan was not playing, but it was still a fun game to watch.

Clark was back on the court. He is playing on a ‘pre-seaon’ team before his first ‘high school’ try out. Here’s a quick video highlight:

Luke had one additional day off so we spent the day together playing pickle ball and going to The Wild Robot. It was a cute movie, but we like the book better.

We are loving this unusually warm fall in Minnesota. The tree outside my house is bringing me absolute delight!

Thanks for reading and happy fall, y’all!

October 23, 2024 By Kathryn

0 In 2024/ Minnesota/ Peek into our Week/ Things to do in Minnesota

Spring Break Adventure on Minnesota’s North Shore

While most families flock to Florida or Mexico for a warm beach escape during spring break, our family of six heads north. With four boys who don’t need a break from the cold and love to ski, we find it both fun and budget-friendly to pack up our gear and head to Minnesota’s beautiful North Shore.

We packed out car to the brim with six pairs of skis, ski boots, snow boots, helmets, gloves, winter clothes, and enough food to feed an army. Our first stop was in Two Harbors for a delicious lunch and some coastal exploration. The boys enjoyed exploring, despite the chilly winds whipping off Lake Superior.

Though we didn’t make time for it on this trip, I highly recommend exploring Gooseberry Falls state park while in (or passing through) Two Harbors, MN!

Next up, we visited the iconic Split Rock Lighthouse and State Park. Last year, the boys spent over an hour just skipping rocks, but this year, the wind and waves kept us from spending much time there, so we made our way to our cozy cabin in the Lutsen woods. It’s not fancy, but the boys love the ski-in/ski-out setup, and I appreciate the full kitchen and two bathrooms.

Once settled in, we took a winter walk though the woods, played some silly snowball games, and capped off the night watching basketball.

The next morning, we were up early and off to Lutsen Ski Hill. The slopes were quiet due to a mild winter in Minnesota. The boys sped down every run – from green to black, leaving me to navigate the icy slopes with all the muscle power I could muster. My youngest, Luke, already skis better than me at age nine.

We gathered for lunch in the lodge, then I decided to stay there and enjoy the stunning view of Lake Superior, while the boys and Ted continued skiing.

After a fun-filled day of skiing, the boys skied their way to the cabin. I love that they can navigate this by themselves. Ted and I drive ourselves and our gear back to the cabin. We ordered pizza for the boys, who were, believe it or not, worn out and ready to relax in the condo. Ted and I snuck away to enjoy live music at a local winery.

We also made a memorable visit to Grand Marais, taking a trek to the lighthouse. Though the famous donut shop was closed, it just gives us another reason to return and explore this charming town further at another time.

On our way home we stopped in Duluth. This is a great place eat, explore, and watch the ships come in an out of the harbor. (For a full Duluth itinerary, click here)

In just three days, we packed in a lot of fun and relaxation. Our North Shore ski trips are always filled with adventure, laughter, and cherished memories. Until next time, keep exploring!

Here’s a visual recap of our trip:

Click here to read about our weekend in Duluth.

Click here to read “24 Family-Friendly things to do in the Twin Cities”

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June 3, 2024 By Kathryn

0 In 2024/ Minnesota/ Things to do in Minnesota

24 Kid-Friendly Places to Explore Around the Twin Cities

Are you in Minnesota and looking for something fun to do with your family? Do you have guests coming to town and want to try something new and unique? Well, I’ve got you!

Here are 24 family-friendly places for fun around Twin Cities:

1. Science Museum of Minnesota

This museum in downtown St. Paul features hands-on exhibits, an Omnitheater, and interactive activities that are both educational and entertaining for kids. My boys and I LOVED it!

2. Nickelodeon Universe

Inside the Mall of America in Bloomington, Nickelodeon Universe is the largest indoor theme park in the United States, offering rides for all ages. I love that you can PAY PER RIDE – or get an all-day pass.

3. Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store

This is a GIANT store in Jordan, MN that not only sells every kind of candy you can imagine, but popcorn, pie, soda, meat and cheese! There is so much to see inside this store, your family will love it. Come for the candy store, or make it a day of adventure.

Click here to read my post about our day in Jordan.

4. Mill City Museum

The Remains of the inside of the General Mills Factory

Learn about the history of Minneapolis and its flour milling industry at the Mill City Museum, which offers interactive exhibits and a chance to explore the ruins of a historic flour mill.

Click here for a peek into our visit to the Mill City Museum.

5. Minnesota Children’s Museum

Located in downtown St. Paul, the Minnesota Children’s Museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits and activities designed to engage children’s curiosity and creativity. All four of my kids enjoyed visiting this museum and want to go back.

6. Minnehaha Falls

Enjoy the outdoors by visiting Minnehaha Falls – you’ll find a scenic waterfall, a hiking trail, swimming spots, and lots of space for exploring. Bring extra clothes or wear some that can get wet or muddy.

7. The Bakken Museum

This museum in Minneapolis focuses on electricity and magnetism, offering hands-on exhibits and demonstrations that are both fun and educational for kids.

Here’s a peek into our visit with more info!

8. Fort Snelling State Park

Explore nature and history at Fort Snelling State Park, where you can hike, bike, picnic, and learn about the military history of the area. Here’s a peek into our visit to the Fort.

9. Minnesota History Center

This museum, located in St. Paul, explores the history and culture of Minnesota through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays. It’s a great place to learn about our state’s past. My kids and I loved our time in this museum and leaned so much in the ‘hands on’ exhibits!

10. Sky zone/Urban Air

Jump and play the day away!

11. Eloise Butler Garden

Founded in 1907, the Wildflower Garden is the oldest public native plant garden in the United States. This area has a beautiful walking path through the grounds.

Click here a peek into our fun day at Eloise.

12. Tactical Urban Combat

The world’s largest indoor nerf and laser tag battle ground. My boys LOVED this experience!

Here’s a peek into our visit with all the details.

13. Crayola Experience

Bursting with more than 20 hands-on activities, this one-of-a-kind family attraction is where color, chemistry and technology combine to create a colorful adventure for a child’s imagination. Name and wrap your own crayon, create a coloring page with YOU in it, bring your art to life in 4-D and so much more! Perfect for a day of family fun.

All four of my kids had a GREAT time! Click here for a peek into our visit.
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14. Roller Skate at Skateville

My children (and inner child) had the BEST time rolling around Skateville! It was good exercise and just SO much fun!

15. Bell Museum

Located in St. Paul, Bell Museum is a place kids can explore science, nature and history. You will find a geology exploration area, solar station, and an area with snakeskins, animal pelts, and bones, rocks and fossils. They have a planetarium and really cool life-size dioramas.

16. Museum of Illusions: A mind-bending fun house

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The Museum of Illusions, located just below the food court in the Mall of America, is a must-visit! My kids and I were captivated by the hands-on, mind-bending exhibits—perfect for amazing photos and endless laughs. It’s a fun, educational experience for all ages. Even the gift shop is stocked with interactive toys and reasonably priced products.

17. American Swedish Institute

The magnificent fireplace inside the entrance to the home. Anyone else have a foyer fireplace like this one?

This museum celebrates Swedish-American culture through art, exhibits, and programming. It’s housed in a stunning, historic mansion and includes a cafe serving Nordic cuisine. Click here to read about my visit.

18. Fly Over America

We LOVED flying over the US! I wish it lasted longer.

Here’s a peek into our visit with more pictures and details.

19. Lake Harriet

Take a walk around Lake Harriet, play on the Beard’s Plaisance playground, have lunch at George and the Dragon or Broder’s Pasta Bar, then visit Wild Rumpus book store.

20. Como Zoo

In St. Paul, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is free to enter and features a zoo with animals from around the world, as well as a conservatory with beautiful gardens.

Click here for more details.

21. Fawndoerosa

This place is just across the Wisconsin border, but deserves to be on the list! It’s an amazing park where deer and other animals roam free for you to pet and feed. Make a day of it and stop by the Franconia Sculpture Garden and Taylor Falls.

Click here to read about our visit.

22. Conquer Ninja Gym

Conquer Ninja Gym is offers ninja training and an obstacle course for ages five and up.

23. The Arboretum

My kids weren’t super excited about a visit to the Arboretum, but I wanted to go, so I created a challenge for them. “Whoever can capture the BEST picture will win $1.” My boys are always up for a contest and it PAID OFF (no pun intended). They enjoyed trying to capture the BEST picture and I enjoyed the BEAUTY all around.

New this year: educational and fun Discovery Booths, featuring a different theme each month. Drop in between 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursdays and Sundays, May 2 through Oct. 27, for a variety of hands-on activities.

Visitors age 15 and under get in free!

Click here to read more about our visit and to see their pictures.

24. Sea Life Aquarium

SEA LIFE is the Minnesota’s largest aquarium. My boys and I enjoyed walking through a tunnel of sharks and getting to pet a few sea creatures.

Here’s a peek into our visit, which includes more pictures and more info.

Though I’ve given you 24 options, Minneapolis and its surrounding areas have a wealth of activities to offer families with children.

Which place do you plan to visit?
Do you have a favorite?

Please let me know by leaving a comment. (Click that little box by the title of this post)

Thanks for reading and I’d love for you to subscribe.

Click here for 55 fun THINGS TO DO with your kids this summer.

Check out my Minnesota Bucket List for more ideas!

Click here for FREE things to do in the Twin Cities!

April 11, 2024 By Kathryn

0 In 2023/ Minnesota/ Things to do in Minnesota

A Peek into Two Multi-Million Dollar Homes in Minnesota

When a neighbor mentioned that he needed some help with a Parade of Home’s Artisan Home Tour, I thought, “Why not? It’s a chance to see some stunning houses and meet new people in the process!”

You can see these dreamy homes (and 18 others!) today through Sunday. Visit one house for $5 or all of them for $25 (with promo code HOLIDAY). All the details are just a click away, so check out more info by tapping right here.

Here’s the scoop on two fabulous homes I played host to over on the west side of Minneapolis.

Which one of these jaw-dropping homes could you see yourself living in?

A 3400-square-foot modern masterpiece out in Medina, MN. It sits on 7 forested acres (yet is still close to restaurants and shopping).
Or, maybe you’re more into the 6700-square-foot, 3 story beauty (with an elevator) on Lake Minnetonka.

House #1 in Medina, MN built by City Homes

I was crazy about this blue porcelain shower.

Here’s an inside tour:

House #2 in Orono, MN on Lake Minnetonka built by Lecy Brothers

This property has been in the family for over half a century, but the house itself is brand new. The top level is an ’apartment’ for the grandparents who bought this property in the 60s. The elevator takes them to every level where the next two generations live.

The main living area with an art TV and lake view

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Watch this video for a tour:

Which is your favorite? Drop your thoughts in the comment section by giving that little box next to the post title a gentle click.

And if you’re on the hunt for more design inspiration, follow my sister at Krista Lynn Designs. She’s an interior designer with phenomenal taste!
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October 20, 2023 By Kathryn

2 In 2021/ Minnesota/ Things to do in Minnesota/ Traveling

21 things to do at Mall of America – besides shop!

I’m not usually a mall fan. I’m one of those rare females that doesn’t love to shop. However, I do enjoy going to the Mall of America. Mostly because there is so much more than shopping. You never know what you will see or experience when you visit MOA.

Here are 21 different things to do:

1. Walk through a Tunnel of Sharks

Visit Minnesota’s largest aquarium. Click here for a peek at our visit and more details.

2. Get CREATIVE at Crayola

Click here for a peek inside.

3. Ride a roller coaster or take a spin around the Ferris wheel at Nickelodeon Universe

4. Eat good food

Donuts, cookies, chicken, mexican food, cream puffs, ice cream, sushi, steak, burritos, cupcakes, burgers and SO much more. If there’s a food you are craving, MOA will have it!

5. Have a min-bending experience at Museum of Illusions

6. People watch

Sit and enjoy watching all the people who visit.

Did you know more people visit Mall of America than Disney World?

7. Race a Go Kart

8. Throw an Ax

Photographs of Fair on 4 in Bloomington, MN. All images by The Restaurant Project Copyright 2022

9. Have a problem-solving adventure in an Escape room

Mall of America has the BEST Escape rooms around! My 15-year-old tried one for his birthday and absolutely LOVED IT! He did the Gold Rush but can’t wait to go back for the Prison Escape or another challenge.

10. Find your way through a Maze of Mirrors

My boys and I tried this and had fun!

11. Watch a movie at the family-owned B&B theatre

Join their free rewards program and you will have access to:

Treat Yourself Tuesday ($5.00 Tickets) and FREE small box of popcorn with the purchase of a movie ticket with the opportunity to upgrade to larger sizes for a discounted fee! Subject to any applicable premium upcharges and tax. Blackout dates apply
FREE same day refills on large popcorns and sodas
FREE #1 combo coupon on your birthday and more!

12. Attend one of the 400 free events every year

Celebrity meet-and-greet, fashion shows, and concerts around the mall.

13. FLY over America

This is one of our FAVORITE experiences at the mall – whether you are 6 or 60 – you will have so much fun ‘flying over’ the US and experiencing it in an entirely new way! Click here to read our story!