The best things to do in Minneapolis

“When you want a low-stress round close to home, Hyland Greens Golf Course in Bloomington delivers with a nine-hole executive layout and a driving range with a 30,000-square-foot tee, short-game area, and putting green, plus lessons and leagues if you're feeling official.”

From the Savage newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Whether you're wrangling kids, your rec-league crew, or coworkers who swear they're "just here for snacks," Mermaid Entertainment & Event in Mounds View keeps it simple with easy lane booking, leagues, and party-ready events. Expect lively vibes, shareable eats, and drinks that make even a gutter ball feel like a win.”

From the Shoreview newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Family-owned alley since 1938, with leagues & cosmic bowling, plus an Irish pub & grill.”

“Goodrich Golf Course is a well-maintained 18-hole, par 70 that rides gently rolling hills and sneaks water into five holes, so you actually have to think. Solid lessons and welcoming leagues make it easy to tune up the swing, then humble your buddies on those diverse greens.”

From the Oakdale newsletter, September 10, 2026

“TriLingua Cinema is building community on the East Side through thoughtfully curated screenings, from youth-led picks to collaborations with local orgs and outdoor flicks under the stars. Expect conversation-ready programming, occasional multilingual titles, and a vibe that feels more block party than multiplex.”

From the St. Paul newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Public course featuring a clubhouse with a bar and brunch, and hosting men's leagues.”

“Relaxed, cash-only movie theater featuring family events and a concession stand, plus popcorn refills.”

“Public 18-hole golf course founded in 1928 with a driving range, shop, snack bar & city views.”

“Popular golf course featuring 18 holes and a driving range.”

“Concord Lanes is that easy, family-friendly bowling hangout with 32 lanes, an arcade and a play area, plus a legit sports bar and grill, so you can wrangle kids, host a birthday, or sneak in a league night without leaving the neighborhood.”

From the Richfield newsletter, August 31, 2026

“This bowling alley with modern decor also offers laser tag & arcade games, plus a restaurant & bar.”

“With bowling, laser tag, VR games, gravity ropes, escape rooms, an arcade, and even the Human Crane, Main Event Woodbury is the easy answer for weeknights with the kids or a spontaneous adult hang. Fuel up on shareable apps, epic desserts, and cocktails between victories.”

From the Oakdale newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Sun Ray Lanes is a 24-lane home for open play, leagues, and parties, with an arcade, a crowd-pleasing menu, and a full bar. It’s the kind of neighborhood hang where kids’ birthdays are easy, league nights stay friendly, and your gutter balls mysteriously improve after pizza.”

From the St. Paul newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Inver Wood Golf Course Maintenance is the quiet MVP keeping Inver Wood’s 27 holes playable and pretty. Between the 18-hole championship track, 9-hole executive loop, and a two-fairway practice center with target greens and bunkers, it’s a reliable local place to hone the swing.”

From the Inver Grove Heights newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Indoor sports center featuring golf simulators, a bar, and a restaurant.”

“Whether you’re sneaking in a round after work or easing a newbie into the game, Roseville Cedarholm Golf Course packs a par-three, nine-hole loop that plays in under two hours. Tree lined fairways, tidy gardens, rental clubs, and youth, ladies, co-rec, and senior leagues make it an easy habit for Roseville golfers.”

From the Roseville newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Como Park Golf Course is a shorter, sporty par-70 behind the Como Zoo and Lake Como, with rolling, well-bunkered greens, water hazards, and just enough elevation change to keep locals honest. When winter hits, you’ll find cross-country skiing here too.”

From the Roseville newsletter, September 9, 2026

“When your crew needs to burn off wiggles, Pump It Up Eden Prairie Kids Birthdays and More delivers with giant inflatables, obstacle courses, and open jumps in a clean, climate-controlled space. Book a 100% private party and their Party Pros handle setup to takedown, plus adults bounce free so you can play too.”

From the Eden Prairie newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Large-scale indoor trampoline center hosting open jump, fitness classes, dodgeball & parties.”

“Got a kid who eats, sleeps, and megs? Winter Park - MTA Training Facility is home turf for Minnesota Thunder Academy right here in Eden Prairie, with coaches accredited by US Soccer, UEFA, and USC, plus a pathway from ThunderBolts to ECNL. Jump into skills sessions or camps this week and let the game grow.”

From the Eden Prairie newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Yes, Wabasha Street Caves is exactly what it sounds like, a sprawling subterranean venue where St. Paul folks throw unforgettable banquets and events, then stick around for guided tours. If you want something cooler than another hotel ballroom, go cave-side and make a night of it.”

From the St. Paul newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Heritage Center of Brooklyn Center blends historic charm with flexible spaces and a detail-obsessed team so your wedding, offsite, or milestone party feels calm and perfectly organized.”

From the Coon Rapids newsletter, August 20, 2026

“This week, if your kids are bouncing off the living room furniture, TAGS Gymnastics channels that energy into skills with GymKids for little ones, girls and boys progressive classes, plus Trampoline & Tumbling and private lessons. They've been teaching since 1977, and the vibe is fun, fitness, friends...”

From the Edina newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Tucked right here in Eden Prairie, Bearpath Golf & Country Club is an intimate oasis for teeing it up, rallying on the tennis courts, or celebrating life’s big moments. Go for the community, stay for the vibe that makes catching up with your people ridiculously easy.”

From the Eden Prairie newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Garlough Park Disc Golf Course is a free, 9-hole loop on school grounds, with tight wooded fairways and real elevation that make short holes play spicy. Tee signs and scorecards keep it friendly, so it’s perfect for an after-work finesse session or a lunch-break birdie hunt.”

From the Inver Grove Heights newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Environmental center with a farm and a wildlife refuge, plus trails, ponds, and fields.”

“CHS Field is the St. Paul Saints’ 7,000-capacity home built on reclaimed brownfield in Lowertown, and it moonlights as a hub for concerts, festivals, and delightfully odd nights like Cat Video Fest. Toss in the City of Baseball Museum and a dog park, and you’ve got an easy local win.”

From the Minneapolis newsletter, September 9, 2026

“If you’re lucky enough to belong, Wayzata Country Club is the week’s playbook, with golf, racquet sports, a relaxing pool, junior sports to burn off energy, and cozy dining to regroup, plus trap and skeet for fun bragging rights when winter eventually returns.”

From the Lake Minnetonka newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Whether the kids need to burn off steam or you want an easy win for a group hang, The Fun Lab in Blaine packs laser tag, bumper cars, VR, a ropes course, and a massive arcade under one roof. Refuel with brick oven pizzas, burgers, and a craft beer while the fun keeps rolling.”

From the Anoka County newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Whether you’re craving opening-weekend chaos, a nostalgia fix, or something the kids will actually sit through, Mann Theatres Champlin has the fresh-from-Hollywood lineup to match. Grab a seat, let the digital picture and sound do their thing, and give your brain a two-hour vacation.”

From the Coon Rapids newsletter, August 6, 2026

“Whether you’re chasing the thrill of snagging plushies or just craving a boba and some Korean shaved ice, DUCK! offers Minnesota’s largest modern Asian-themed claw machine experience. Gacha surprises, anime goodies, and party vibes make it an easy, goofy-bright pick-me-up this week.”

From the South Minneapolis newsletter, August 6, 2026

“Whether you're easing back into your swing or corralling the kids into something that isn't screen time, Brookland Golf Park keeps it simple with a breezy 9-hole layout, footgolf for extra laughs, plus lessons and leagues that make the game feel welcoming, low pressure, and genuinely fun.”

From the Brooklyn Park newsletter, August 5, 2026

“Need an easy win this week? Plymouth Grand 15 is serving up Spider-Man: Brand New Day, The Invite, and family favorites like Moana and Toy Story 5, so you can corral the crew, sink into the story, and call it quality time without overthinking plans.”

From the Plymouth newsletter, August 6, 2026

“Riverview Theater pairs 21st-century projection and digital sound with a classic 1950s-style auditorium, high-backed rocker seats, and a spacious lobby with mod couches. Catch everything from blockbusters to niche art picks this week, then pencil in CatVideoFest 2026 on August 8...”

From the Minneapolis newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Need a midweek energy burn, St. Paul? We Rock The Spectrum - Woodbury offers inclusive Open Play with a zip line, trampoline, and arts-and-crafts zone, plus classes and party fun, all set up for safe sensory exploration so kids of all abilities can go full-out while you breathe.”

From the St. Paul newsletter, August 6, 2026

“Chain of indoor trampoline parks featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.”

“Well-kept golf course with 9 holes of Par 3 variety, plus carts.”

“Whether your kiddo loves zip line, trampoline time, or a low-key craft corner, We Rock The Spectrum - Eagan is the gym for all kids with open play, classes, and sensory-friendly vibes. A nearby go-to when you need an energy outlet and an inclusive community, no apologies required.”

From the South Minneapolis newsletter, August 14, 2026

“If your crew needs easy fun without a big plan, Nowhere Entertainment packs escape rooms, mini golf, an arcade, and food and drinks under one roof. Keep it casual this week... puzzle, putt, then stash the date for their seasonal haunted house once spooky vibes return.”

From the St. Paul newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Keep it simple this week at Woodbury 10 Theatre, where you can snag advance tickets with Quick TIX, rack up Loyalty Rewards, and crush classic concessions while catching the new release everyone is texting about.”

From the Woodbury newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Mill Ruins Park turns the bones of a historic old mill into an easy spin of walking and biking paths, dotted with interpretive signs you will actually read. Perfect for a quick lunch-break stroll or low-stress ride when you need a city reset without going far.”

From the Minneapolis newsletter, August 12, 2026

“Parkers Lake Golf Center keeps it simple, just a full-length outdoor driving range where you can finally sort out that slice, then grab a soft drink in the clubhouse. Or book a Golf Academy lesson to turn range time into real progress.”

From the Maple Grove newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Craving a round that feels old-school in the best way, Spring Hill Golf Club keeps it blissfully focused on the game with limited membership, a tradition-first vibe, and a brisk pace that makes four hours feel like a treat. If you’re a member or have a golden-ticket friend, pencil it in this week.”

From the Lake Minnetonka newsletter, August 11, 2026

“Round up your crew this week for bumper-car chaos that mashes basketball, hockey, and lacrosse, then hit laser tag, escape rooms, or the arcade at WhirlyBall Twin Cities in Maple Grove. Fuel up with local brews and unique eats from their award-winning chef.”

From the Maple Grove newsletter, August 19, 2026

“Chain of indoor trampoline parks featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.”

“Mini golf venue featuring 18 holes with blacklight murals of rock artists and sculptures.”

“Arbor Pointe Golf Club is open for the 2026 season, and it’s the ideal spot for a quick, no-drama loop when you need to reset the brain. Local league nights keep the competitive spark alive, and that hole-in-one board is begging for your name.”

From the Lakeville newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Minnesota's classic cinema experience since 1926, Heights Theater keeps film love alive with 70mm showings, deep-cut series like Cartoons & Classics and Silent Sundays, and that glorious Mighty Wurlitzer warming up the room. If you’ve been meaning to trade streaming scroll for real spectacle, this week’s your cue.”

From the Coon Rapids newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Zero Gravity Adventure Park is the locally owned trampoline spot that actually earns its hype, with wall-to-wall jumping, an amped up arcade, the interactive Pixel Game Floor, the Sky Walker Net Course, immersive laser tag, and the giant Human Claw Machine.”

From the Blaine newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Wheel Fun Rentals Mini Golf keeps it simple and fun with an 18-hole course tucked into Veterans Memorial Park’s gardens in Richfield, the perfect playful-but-challenging loop for friend dates and kid energy. Sink a putt, then celebrate at the malt shop with melts and malts like it’s summer break again.”

From the South Minneapolis newsletter, August 19, 2026

“Craving a different kind of crew night? Puttshack - Minneapolis brings tech-infused, indoor mini golf with automatic scoring, quick 9-hole rounds, and yes, cocktails on the course, all in the North Loop... a solid Blaine escape for date nights, competitive friends, or when the weather refuses to cooperate.”

From the Minneapolis newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Craving a quick Maple Grove staycation that wears the kids out and lets you soak in a 20-person spa? Venetian Waterpark packs two four-story slides, a zero-entry Bambini Piscina, hoops and an arcade under a Venetian cityscape theme, with hotel-guest-only access... so book a room and make a weekend of it.”

From the Maple Grove newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Kick back in electric recliners, catch the latest releases, and try the wild wraparound immersion of SCREENX at B&B Theatres Bloomington 13 @ Mall of America. Pair it with made-to-order bites and a cocktail from the Marquee Bar, or hit their trivia and bingo nights this week.”

From the South Minneapolis newsletter, August 26, 2026

“With hilly nine-hole fun, sand and grass bunkers, strategic water hazards and real elevation shifts, Glen Lake Golf & Practice Center nails that quick-after-work round or focused range session. Lessons and clinics for every level keep the rust off so weekend foursomes stop chirping you.”

From the Lake Minnetonka newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Artist-designed mini golf, a retro arcade packed with pinball, neon and video games, and boozy milkshakes to steady your swing. Can Can Wonderland is the playful, slightly cheeky reset your week needs, set inside a historic can factory filled with murals and Twin Cities art energy.”

From the Chanhassen newsletter, August 11, 2026

“Cinema Grill pairs films and live stand-up with a full menu and bar served right to your seat, perfect for an easy win this week. Think burgers, scratch pizza, a long craft beer list and a root beer float finale, plus Outtakes next door for trivia, bingo, karaoke and meat raffles.”

From the Plymouth newsletter, August 18, 2026

“Maple Grove Chalk Festival turns the pavement into a sprawling art gallery with vibrant, crazy-detailed chalk murals you can literally walk beside, then debate about on the way home. Keep an eye out for The Great Chalkfest Vote, cast your pick, and feel way more artsy than you planned.”

From the Maple Grove newsletter, September 2, 2026

“When the Vikings are on or you just need to unleash some competitive energy, Dave & Buster's Maple Grove lines up state-of-the-art screens, a huge arcade of classics and new hits, and a menu that actually keeps up with the action... burgers, steaks, salads, desserts, cocktails, and mocktails.”

From the Maple Grove newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Rush Creek Golf Club keeps golf fun with a public course that feels private, hole-by-hole flyovers to plot your attack, and lessons for adults and juniors. Book a tee time, chase a few birdies, try the Mac Nine, then reward yourself at Highlander Pub like you absolutely planned it that way.”

From the Maple Grove newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Thinking about getting more rounds in this week, Bent Creek Golf Club is a private 18-hole course built to challenge every level, with leagues, instruction, and junior golf that keep the whole family swinging. They also host golf outings, banquets, and events when you want to make a day of it.”

From the Chanhassen newsletter, August 29, 2026

“com/Unci-Makha-Mural) threads Dakota creation stories into the Hidden Falls landscape, blending turtles, muskrat and petroglyphs with a mirrored Milky Way and Mississippi at Bdote, a locally made piece by Elissa Cedarleaf Dahl, Missy Whiteman and Right Track interns that rewards an unhurried walk.”

“Sprawling entertainment venue with a high-tech driving range & swanky lounge with drinks & games.”

“Whether you’re chasing birdies or just a great spot to gather, Oak Ridge Country Club nails the blend of championship golf, two distinct dining venues, and year-round perks like tennis, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool. Bonus, their event spaces make milestones feel genuinely special.”

From the Lake Minnetonka newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Enigma Adventures: Escape Room Games is a family-run, private escape room spot delivering 60-minute, high-tech, story-driven missions that actually feel like adventures, from pirate treasure hunts to CIA bunker break-ins.”

From the Maple Grove newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Chain of indoor trampoline parks featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.”

“Skip the crowded range and duck into 24 Golf Eagan, where pro-level simulators, swing cameras, and launch monitors make every rep count. Book a bay on your schedule, play realistic courses, jump into leagues or lessons, and bring that improved swing outside when the season turns.”

From the South Minneapolis newsletter, August 15, 2026

“Ready to trade spreadsheets for sauropods this week? Dinosaur Dred Scott Mini Golf has 18 quirky holes with waterfalls, rocks, towering trees, nine watery hazards and even practice greens on a course that’s 25% larger than most, which basically means more room for your miraculous bank shots and friendly trash talk.”

From the Mankato newsletter, August 19, 2026

“Blainbrook Entertainment Center brings 24 automatically scored lanes, a lively arcade, and a legit sports bar under one roof, perfect for mixing strikes with burgers and friendly trash talk. Join a league or just roll in with friends and turn an average weeknight into bragging rights.”

From the Anoka County newsletter, September 20, 2026

“If you want a round that feels like a mini escape without leaving the neighborhood, Meadowbrook Golf Course winds along Minnehaha Creek with tree-lined fairways and gentle hills that keep things interesting for every skill level. Cap it off in the fresh new clubhouse and call it a week well played.”

From the Saint Louis Park newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Rolling executive, 9-hole course for experienced players, alongside a driving range, a sand trap and a clubhouse.”

“Edinburgh USA is a Robert Trent Jones II public course in Brooklyn Park that’s hosted LPGA events, and after a 2014 refresh it plays friendlier with new bunkers, wider landing areas, and tidy chipping zones. Book a round, hit the practice facilities, then refuel at Tavern at Edinburgh.”

From the Brooklyn Park newsletter, August 11, 2026

“Puttshack - Edina brings tech-infused mini golf with automatic scoring, interactive gameplay, and cocktails you can sip right on the course. Pair it with chef-driven shareables and a leaderboard that fans the competitive flame, and you’ve got a go-to for date nights, birthdays, or a random Tuesday victory lap.”

From the Edina newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Freshen up your swing this week at Highland National Golf Course, a public 18 that winds through mature trees with water in play on ten holes. Finish at the iconic 15th and its Snoopy-shaped bunker honoring Charles Schulz, a local legend touch that even caught Golf Digest’s eye, plus a handy practice area.”

From the Minneapolis newsletter, August 17, 2026

“Indoor mini-golf venue featuring inventive cocktails and curated fare.”

“Trade the same-old loop for a walk or bike across Historic Stone Arch Bridge, the former railroad span with wide views of St. Anthony Falls and the riverfront. It links straight into Mill Ruins Park and Father Hennepin Bluff Park, so you can keep wandering when the view hooks you.”

From the Minneapolis newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Trees dot the landscape at this seasonal, 18-hole public golf course on 190 acres with 11 ponds.”

“Family-owned since 1997, Midwest Golf Dome keeps your swing sharp with 33 practice stalls and a chipping and putting green, all heated when winter hits. When the snow melts, take it outside to their 18-hole mini golf course for a little friendly frustration... in the best way.”

From the Maplewood newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Moose Mountain Adventure Golf serves up 18 holes of North Woods whimsy that’s fun without trying too hard. Expect life-size moose and horses plus cartoon vehicles like a logging truck and biplane, basically a quick cabin-country escape that doesn’t require sitting in weekend traffic.”

From the South Minneapolis newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Braemar Golf Course nails the Edina golf trifecta with a Championship 18 for your serious rounds, the Academy 9 par-3 to tighten wedges, and a high-tech Golf Dome with Toptracer and simulators for year-round swings. Line up a round with a friend this week, then feel smug when that new draw actually shows up.”

From the Edina newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Grand Slam packs it all under one roof: laser tag, the X-treme Trampoline, batting cages, mini golf, Krazy Kars, a Play Zone, and a classic video arcade, so you can wear out the kids and your competitive streak. Minnesota Parent readers even voted it #1 for family fun and birthday parties.”

From the Lakeville newsletter, August 10, 2026

“Minneapolis Golf Club blends more than a century of legendary golf with a genuinely welcoming, inclusive community that actually hangs out, an easy-to-get-to retreat.”

From the Saint Louis Park newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Lost Spur Golf and Event Center serves up a par 34 layout with legit city and valley views, plus an all grass range with target greens, bunker, chipping and putting areas. Great for a quick midweek round, and clutch when you need a polished event spot.”

From the South Minneapolis newsletter, August 20, 2026

“Drive-thru light show with hot chocolate at the end, plus a warming tent for ice skating.”

“Indoor golf center featuring realistic simulators and a wide range of courses, plus a restaurant and bar.”

“Large-scale indoor trampoline center hosting open jump, fitness classes, dodgeball & parties.”

“Jump Start Adventure Park Chanhassen packs a neon adventure maze, race slides, a rope course, climbing walls, an extreme air court, and a soft toddler zone, plus pizza when hunger hits. Great for birthdays or a spontaneous energy dump while you cheer from the sidelines and reclaim a few precious adult minutes.”

From the Eden Prairie newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Family-friendly space featuring a splash pad and a playground, plus picnic tables and benches.”

“Chain of indoor trampoline parks featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.”

“Straightforward movie theater showing new releases, plus matinee deals & a party room.”

“Whether you're dusting off the clubs or sneaking in a quick round this week, Eagle Lake Golf keeps it fun with a nine-hole executive Eagle Course, a pitch-and-putt Birdie Course, a roomy driving range, mini golf and even FootGolf. Lessons and leagues make leveling up your game feel easy.”

From the St. Paul newsletter, August 13, 2026

“Grab a scratch-made burger or pizza, then bounce between axe throwing, laser tag, pickleball, and a whole arcade of side quests at The Burrow - Oakdale. It’s the rare spot where food cravings and competitive energy both win, mini golf included if you’re feeling extra.”

From the Woodbury newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Bright, kid-friendly place offering slides, basketball, trampoline parks and bouncy basketball, plus a cafe.”