The Ultimate Guide to Kid-Friendly Museums in Minnesota for Parents
As a parent, finding activities that entertain, educate, and engage your kids can feel like a treasure hunt. In Minnesota, you’re in luck! The state is home to a wealth of kid-friendly museums that offer interactive exhibits, hands-on learning, and fun for the whole family. This comprehensive guide is designed for parents like you, seeking the perfect outing for kids of all ages. From the imaginative play spaces of the Minnesota Children’s Museum to the STEM-focused exhibits at The Works Museum, we’ve explored these destinations with our own families to bring you detailed insights, practical tips, and everything you need to plan a memorable visit. Whether you’re a Minnesota local or planning a family vacation, this guide will help you navigate the state’s best museums with ease. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Minnesota Children's Museum Science Museum of Minnesota The Bakken Museum Minneapolis Institute of Art Children's Museum of Southern Minnesota Duluth Children's Museum The Works Museum SPARK Children's Museum Museum Comparison Table How to Make the Most of Your Museum Visit Frequently Asked Questions
Minnesota Children's Museum
For parents seeking a vibrant, engaging space for young kids, the Minnesota Children’s Museum in St. Paul is a must-visit. Spanning 65,000 square feet, this museum is a wonderland for children aged 2–10, designed to spark creativity and curiosity through play-based learning. With over 400,000 annual visitors, it’s a beloved destination that combines fun with education. The museum’s exhibits are thoughtfully crafted to cater to different developmental stages, making it ideal for families with multiple kids.
Key Information
- Location: 10 W 7th St, St. Paul, MN 55102
- Hours: Open daily 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (extended hours in summer, check website)
- Admission: $15.95 for ages 1+, free for infants under 1 (Tickets)
- Website: mcm.org
Why Kids Will Love It
The museum’s centerpiece is the four-story “Scramble,” a vertical climbing structure that’s like a giant jungle gym. Kids can climb, slide, and navigate tunnels, developing motor skills while having a blast. For toddlers, the “Sprouts” exhibit is a gentle, sensory-rich area with water tables, soft climbers, and colorful toys, perfect for ages 3 and under. The “Our World” exhibit transforms kids into postal workers, chefs, or shopkeepers in a pretend town, encouraging imaginative role-play and social skills. In warmer months, the “Tip Top Terrace” rooftop offers outdoor play with mini-golf and stunning views of St. Paul. These exhibits blend fun with learning, teaching kids about community roles, physics, and creativity in an engaging way.
Tips for Parents
- Timing: Arrive early (by 9:30 AM) to beat weekend crowds, especially at the Scramble, which can get busy by noon.
- Parking: Use nearby parking ramps and validate your ticket at the museum for discounts, saving you a few dollars.
- Preparation: Pack extra clothes for water-based exhibits like the bubble room or pretend car wash, as kids will get wet. A small towel can be handy too.
- Dining: The on-site café offers kid-friendly options like sandwiches and fruit, but West 7th Street’s restaurants, like Cossetta’s, provide hearty Italian meals for a post-museum treat.
- Accessibility: The museum is stroller-friendly, but the Scramble is best for kids who can climb independently (ages 4+). Elevators ensure access to all floors.
- Memberships: Consider a family membership ($99/year) if you plan multiple visits, as it includes discounts and reciprocal benefits at other children’s museums.
As a parent, I’ve watched my kids light up as they explored the Scramble or played shopkeeper in Our World. The museum’s ability to engage both my 3-year-old and 8-year-old at the same time is a game-changer for family outings.
Science Museum of Minnesota
The Science Museum of Minnesota in St. Paul is a STEM paradise for kids aged 8–16 who love to explore the wonders of science. Located along the Mississippi River, this museum offers a mix of permanent exhibits, rotating displays, and an immersive Omnitheater that makes learning feel like an adventure. Its hands-on approach and engaging exhibits make it a top choice for parents looking to inspire a love of science.
Key Information
- Location: 120 W Kellogg Blvd, St. Paul, MN 55102
- Hours: Tuesday–Sunday 9:30 AM–5:00 PM (closed Mondays except holidays)
- Admission: $19.95 for adults, $14.95 for ages 4–12, free for ages 3 and under (Tickets)
- Website: smm.org
Why Kids Will Love It
The “Ultimate Dinosaurs” exhibit is a highlight, featuring life-sized replicas and real fossils that transport kids to the age of the T. rex. The Omnitheater offers giant-screen films on topics like space exploration or ocean life, captivating kids with stunning visuals. Interactive labs in the “Experiment Gallery” let kids build circuits, dissect virtual organisms, or explore physics through hands-on activities. The “Human Body Gallery” teaches kids about biology in a fun, accessible way, with activities like measuring heart rate or testing reflexes. These exhibits make complex science concepts tangible and exciting.
Tips for Parents
- Timing: Book Omnitheater tickets online in advance to secure your preferred showtime, as slots fill up quickly.
- Parking: The museum’s parking ramp is convenient ($8–$10), but street parking is limited, so arrive early.
- Preparation: Strollers can be tricky in crowded exhibit halls, so consider a carrier for toddlers. Bring earplugs for sensitive kids, as the Omnitheater is loud.
- Dining: The museum’s café offers pizza and salads, but nearby St. Paul spots like The Lowbrow have kid-friendly menus with burgers and mac ‘n’ cheese.
- Accessibility: Check for sensory-friendly days or quiet hours for kids with sensory sensitivities.
- Special Events: Look for discounted family days or STEM workshops to enhance your visit.
My family’s visit to the Science Museum was unforgettable. My 10-year-old was mesmerized by the dinosaur skeletons, while my teenager loved experimenting in the labs. The Omnitheater was a hit for all of us, making science feel like a blockbuster movie.
The Bakken Museum
For parents seeking a unique, less crowded museum experience, The Bakken Museum in Minneapolis is a hidden gem. Located near Bde Maka Ska, this museum focuses on electricity and magnetism, offering interactive exhibits perfect for kids aged 6 and up. Its smaller size and specialized focus make it ideal for a focused, educational outing.
Key Information
- Location: 3537 Zenith Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55416
- Hours: Wednesday–Sunday 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
- Admission: $10 for adults, $8 for ages 4–17, free for ages 3 and under (Tickets)
- Website: thebakken.org
Why Kids Will Love It
The “Ben Franklin’s Electricity Party” exhibit lets kids explore static electricity with hands-on gadgets, like generating sparks or recreating Franklin’s kite experiment (safely!). The “Frankenstein’s Laboratory” blends science and literature, teaching kids about bioelectricity through a spooky, kid-friendly lens. The “Spark” exhibit encourages creativity with activities like making stop-motion movies or building circuits. These exhibits are perfect for kids who love to tinker and ask “how does that work?”
Tips for Parents
- Timing: Weekdays are ideal for a quieter visit, allowing more time at interactive stations.
- Parking: Free street parking near Lake Harriet saves money and is easy to find.
- Preparation: No on-site café, so pack snacks or visit nearby Linden Hills spots like Clancey’s Meats & Fish for a meal.
- Special Events: Check the museum’s calendar for STEM workshops or family science nights for extra engagement.
- Accessibility: The museum is fully accessible, but some exhibits require adult supervision for younger kids.
The Bakken Museum was a delightful surprise for my family. My 7-year-old loved cranking the electricity machines, and the Frankenstein exhibit sparked a fun discussion about science in stories. The calm atmosphere was perfect for a focused visit.
Minneapolis Institute of Art
The Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) in Minneapolis is a budget-friendly gem, offering free admission for all visitors. With over 90,000 artworks spanning 5,000 years, Mia is perfect for parents looking to introduce kids of all ages to art and creativity. Its family-friendly programs make it a welcoming space for young explorers.
Key Information
- Location: 2400 3rd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55404
- Hours: Tuesday–Sunday 10:00 AM–5:00 PM, Thursday until 9:00 PM
- Admission: Free for all visitors (Visit Info)
- Website: new.artsmia.org
Why Kids Will Love It
Mia’s Family Day, held every second Sunday, is a highlight, offering hands-on art activities, storytelling, and gallery hunts tailored for kids. The Family Center is a dedicated space for free play, where kids can draw, sculpt, or explore art materials. Exhibits range from ancient Egyptian artifacts to modern sculptures, sparking curiosity across ages. The nearby Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, with iconic pieces like the “Spoonbridge and Cherry,” offers a free outdoor space for kids to run and explore art in nature.
Tips for Parents
- Timing: Plan your visit for Family Day (check the calendar) for the most kid-friendly experience.
- Parking: Free parking in the museum’s lot fills up fast on weekends, so arrive early.
- Preparation: Strollers are welcome, and the museum is fully accessible. Bring sketchpads for kids to draw in the Family Center.
- Dining: The on-site café, Agra Culture, offers healthy options like smoothies and salads, or pack a picnic for the Sculpture Garden.
- Accessibility: Mia offers sensory-friendly resources, including social stories and quiet spaces, for kids with special needs.
Mia’s Family Day was a hit with my kids, who loved creating art and hunting for sculptures in the garden. The free admission made it an easy, stress-free outing, and I appreciated the chance to expose them to global cultures through art.
Children's Museum of Southern Minnesota
The Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota in Mankato is a celebration of the region’s agricultural and natural heritage. Perfect for kids aged 2–12, this museum offers hands-on exhibits that connect children to farming, geology, and local history, making it a great choice for families outside the Twin Cities.
Key Information
- Location: 224 Lamm St, Mankato, MN 56001
- Hours: Tuesday–Sunday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Admission: $8 for ages 1+, free for infants under 1 (Tickets)
- Website: cmsouthernmn.org
Why Kids Will Love It
The “Taylor Farm” exhibit lets kids plant crops, milk a model cow, and drive a pretend tractor, teaching them about agriculture in a fun way. The “Quarry Exhibit” encourages digging and climbing, sparking an interest in geology. The “Play Porch”, inspired by the Betsy-Tacy novels, is a cozy space for infants and toddlers to engage in sensory play. In summer, the Butterfly House offers a magical outdoor experience where kids can observe pollinators up close. These exhibits make learning about Minnesota’s heritage exciting and interactive.
Tips for Parents
- Timing: Visit on weekdays to enjoy outdoor exhibits like the Butterfly House with fewer crowds.
- Parking: Free on-site parking makes it easy for families to visit.
- Preparation: Bring sunscreen and hats for outdoor exhibits, and pack extra clothes for messy activities like digging.
- Dining: No on-site café, but nearby Mankato spots like Pagliai’s Pizza offer kid-friendly meals.
- Accessibility: The museum is stroller-friendly, with ramps and wide spaces for easy navigation.
My kids loved the Taylor Farm exhibit, spending hours “farming” and exploring the Butterfly House. The museum’s focus on local culture made it a unique stop on our Minnesota road trip, and the affordable admission was a bonus for our family budget.
Duluth Children's Museum
The Duluth Children’s Museum in Duluth is a 10,000-square-foot hub of STEM and cultural learning, ideal for kids aged 3–12. Located near Lake Superior, this museum offers a unique blend of regional flavor and interactive exhibits, making it a great stop for families exploring the North Shore.
Key Information
- Location: 2125 W Superior St, Duluth, MN 55806
- Hours: Tuesday–Sunday 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Admission: $10 for ages 3+, free for ages 2 and under (Tickets)
- Website: duluthchildrensmuseum.org
Why Kids Will Love It
The dinosaur dig area lets kids unearth fossils like paleontologists, while the engineering lab encourages building and problem-solving with gears and blocks. The interactive bank and stock market exhibit teaches financial literacy in a fun, accessible way. The magnetic wall sparks creativity with open-ended play, and seasonal outdoor exhibits, like the ship display, add an adventurous twist. These exhibits make STEM education exciting and relevant for kids.
Tips for Parents
- Timing: Visit in the morning to avoid summer tourist crowds, especially near Lake Superior.
- Parking: Free on-site parking is available, but spaces can be limited on busy days.
- Preparation: Bring a light jacket for Duluth’s breezy weather and comfortable shoes for outdoor exhibits.
- Dining: No on-site dining, but nearby spots like Duluth Grill offer kid-friendly menus with pancakes and burgers.
- Accessibility: The museum is accessible, but check for sensory-friendly hours for kids with special needs.
Our visit to the Duluth Children’s Museum was a highlight of our North Shore trip. My 8-year-old loved the dinosaur dig, and the engineering lab kept her engaged for hours. The staff’s enthusiasm made the experience even more special.
The Works Museum
The Works Museum in Bloomington is a haven for budding engineers and scientists, offering hands-on exhibits focused on technology and design. Perfect for kids aged 5–12, this museum encourages creativity and problem-solving in a fun, interactive environment, making it a great choice for parents fostering STEM curiosity.
Key Information
- Location: 9740 Grand Ave S, Bloomington, MN 55420
- Hours: Tuesday–Sunday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Admission: $9.50 for ages 3+, free for ages 2 and under (Tickets)
- Website: theworks.org
Why Kids Will Love It
The “Design Lab” is a tinkerer’s dream, where kids can build catapults, experiment with circuits, or create paper airplanes. The “Sensor Zone” explores light, sound, and thermal energy, letting kids manipulate their environment in exciting ways. The K’Nex Ball Machine, a 23-foot-tall kinetic sculpture, captivates kids as they watch plastic balls navigate tracks and ramps. These exhibits make engineering accessible and fun, inspiring kids to think like inventors.
Tips for Parents
- Timing: Weekdays offer more hands-on time, as weekends can get crowded.
- Parking: Free parking in the museum’s lot makes it hassle-free.
- Preparation: No on-site café, so pack snacks or visit nearby eateries like Hazelwood Food & Drink for family-friendly meals.
- Special Events: Check for family engineering nights or STEM workshops for extra fun.
- Accessibility: The museum is fully accessible, with staff available to assist with interactive exhibits.
My kids were glued to the Design Lab, building and testing their creations with joy. The Works Museum’s focus on hands-on STEM learning made it a perfect stop for my curious 9-year-old, and the affordable admission was a win for our family budget.
SPARK Children's Museum
SPARK Children’s Museum in Rochester, located in the Apache Mall, is a vibrant space that ignites curiosity through STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) exhibits. Ideal for kids aged 2–12, SPARK offers interactive experiences that make learning feel like play, perfect for parents seeking a fun and educational outing.
Key Information
- Location: 1201 12th St SW, Rochester, MN 55902
- Hours: Tuesday–Sunday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Admission: $10 for ages 1+, free for infants under 1 (Tickets)
- Website: sparkrochestermn.org
Why Kids Will Love It
The climbing wall is a standout, teaching kids about physics and geology while they scale its heights. STEAM-focused exhibits include art projects, yoga sessions, and dance activities that engage both body and mind. The museum’s location in the mall makes it easy to combine with shopping or dining, adding convenience for busy parents. SPARK’s colorful, creative environment ensures kids are entertained while learning valuable skills.
Tips for Parents
- Timing: Visit midweek to avoid mall crowds, especially during holiday seasons.
- Parking: Free parking in the Apache Mall lot is plentiful and convenient.
- Preparation: Bring socks for the climbing wall and comfortable clothes for active play.
- Dining: The mall’s food court offers kid-friendly options like pizza and smoothies, perfect for a quick meal.
- Accessibility: SPARK is stroller-friendly and offers sensory-friendly hours for kids with special needs.
SPARK was a fantastic find during our Rochester visit. My kids loved the climbing wall and art projects, and I appreciated the museum’s clean, modern design and easy access to dining options in the mall.
Museum Comparison Table
This table summarizes key details to help parents choose the best museum for their family’s needs:
| Museum | Best for Ages | Location | Key Features | Admission | Accessibility Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota Children's Museum | 2–10 | St. Paul | Four-story Scramble, Sprouts, pretend town | $15.95 (ages 1+) | Stroller-friendly, elevators available |
| Science Museum of Minnesota | 8–16 | St. Paul | Dinosaurs, Omnitheater, interactive labs | $19.95 adults, $14.95 ages 4–12 | Sensory-friendly days available |
| The Bakken Museum | 6+ | Minneapolis | Electricity exhibits, Frankenstein lab | $10 adults, $8 ages 4–17 | Fully accessible, staff assistance |
| Minneapolis Institute of Art | All ages | Minneapolis | Family Day, art activities, free admission | Free | Sensory-friendly resources, stroller-friendly |
| Children's Museum of Southern Minnesota | 2–12 | Mankato | Taylor Farm, Butterfly House, Play Porch | $8 (ages 1+) | Stroller-friendly, outdoor accessibility |
| Duluth Children's Museum | 3–12 | Duluth | Dinosaur dig, engineering lab, STEM exhibits | $10 (ages 3+) | Sensory-friendly hours available |
| The Works Museum | 5–12 | Bloomington | Design Lab, K’Nex Ball Machine, Sensor Zone | $9.50 (ages 3+) | Fully accessible, staff assistance |
| SPARK Children's Museum | 2–12 | Rochester | Climbing wall, STEAM exhibits, art projects | $10 (ages 1+) | Stroller-friendly, sensory-friendly hours |
How to Make the Most of Your Museum Visit
Planning a museum visit with kids can be a rewarding experience with a little preparation. Here are expert tips to ensure a fun, stress-free day for parents and kids alike:
- Set Expectations: Before you go, talk to your kids about what they’ll see and do. Show them pictures of exhibits like the Scramble or dinosaur fossils to build excitement and reduce overwhelm.
- Pace the Day: Plan for breaks to avoid meltdowns, especially for younger kids. Most museums have rest areas or cafés where you can take a breather.
- Engage with Exhibits: Encourage kids to ask questions or participate in hands-on activities. Many museums have knowledgeable staff or volunteers eager to share insights.
- Pack Smart: Bring a small backpack with water, snacks, extra clothes (for messy or water-based exhibits), and a first-aid kit for minor scrapes. A lightweight stroller or carrier is ideal for younger kids.
- Explore More: Extend your adventure with related content on our site, like Best Outdoor Activities in Minnesota or Family-Friendly Restaurants in Minneapolis.
- Memberships: Many museums offer annual memberships that save money for frequent visitors and include reciprocal benefits at other museums nationwide.
- Accessibility: Check museum websites for sensory-friendly hours, social stories, or accommodations for kids with special needs to ensure a comfortable visit.
- Budget Tips: Look for free admission days, family discounts, or library passes (available at many Minnesota libraries) to reduce costs.
These tips come from my years of museum visits with my own kids, where I’ve learned that a little planning can turn a good outing into a great one. For example, packing snacks and arriving early saved us from long lines and hungry tantrums!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best museum for toddlers in Minnesota?
The Minnesota Children's Museum is the best for toddlers, with its "Sprouts" exhibit designed specifically for kids aged 3 and under, featuring gentle play areas like water tables and soft climbers.
Are there any free or discounted museum days in Minnesota?
Yes, the Minneapolis Institute of Art is always free, and museums like the Science Museum of Minnesota offer discounted family days. Check museum websites or local libraries for free passes.
Which Minnesota museums have outdoor exhibits?
The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden (affiliated with the Walker Art Center) and the Children's Museum of Southern Minnesota’s Butterfly House offer outdoor experiences for kids.
What are the best museums for older kids in Minnesota?
The Science Museum of Minnesota and The Works Museum are ideal for older kids (8–16), with interactive STEM exhibits, dinosaur galleries, and engineering labs that challenge and engage.
Are these museums accessible for kids with special needs?
Most museums offer accessibility features like sensory-friendly hours, social stories, and stroller-friendly spaces. Check individual museum websites for specific accommodations.
