photo credit: Lodge at Giants Ridge

Things to Do in the Minnesota This Summer

Summer in the Twin Cities is packed with festivals, outdoor fun, family adventures, and rooftop dining. Whether you’re looking for iconic Minnesota experiences or hidden gems, here’s your guide to making the most of the season in Minneapolis and St. Paul.

Major Summer Festivals & Events

• Minnesota State Fair (Aug 21–Sep 1): Food on a stick, concerts, animals, and rides — it’s one of the largest state fairs in the country.
• Minneapolis Aquatennial (Jul 23–26): Torchlight parade, fireworks, beach events, and family fun throughout the city.
• Minnehaha Falls Art Fair (Jul 18–20): Local art, live music, and food trucks in a gorgeous park setting.

Family & Free-Friendly Fun

• Como Zoo & Conservatory: A free favorite for families with animals, gardens, and splash pad fun.
• Minnehaha Falls: Hike the trails, rent bikes, or cool off by the falls — consistently ranked among Minnesota’s top free attractions.
• Movies & Music in the Parks: Catch outdoor movies and live music events across Minneapolis and St. Paul all summer long.
• Free Bowling & Skating: Check local park boards and community centers for free and low-cost family events.
• Festivals for Kids: From Train Days to WaterFest and Rondo Days, there’s always something happening for younger crowds.

Food, Markets & Rooftop Dining

• Midtown Global Market & local farmers markets: Explore diverse flavors and locally made goods from around the world.
• New Restaurants & Bars: Try fresh spots like North Star Deli, Donut Trap, and more opening across the metro.
• Rooftop Patios: Sip and savor the season at rooftop favorites like Union, O'Shaughnessy Distilling, and Pinoli.

Outdoor Adventures & Arts

• Chain of Lakes: Rent a kayak, ride the trails, or picnic by the water at Bde Maka Ska, Lake Harriet, and Cedar Lake.
• Minneapolis Sculpture Garden: Walk through this iconic park and snap a photo with the Spoonbridge & Cherry.
• Bike the Grand Rounds: One of the most scenic urban trail systems in the country awaits with river, lake, and skyline views.
• Mountain Biking at Giants Ridge: Make a summer weekend out of riding the professionally built trails at Giants Ridge in northern Minnesota — an epic destination for downhill and cross-country riders.

Sports & Live Shows

• Minnesota Twins: Catch a game at Target Field, especially Friday nights with postgame fireworks.
• Minnesota United FC: Cheer on the Loons at Allianz Field in St. Paul.
• Concerts & Big Events: From U.S. Bank Stadium to Xcel Energy Center, there's always something big on the calendar.

Insider Tips

• Go early to major events to avoid parking headaches.
• Bring layers — even summer evenings can get cool near the lakes.
• Stay in the know by subscribing to local event newsletters like Axios Weekender.

Whether you're a long-time local or just visiting, summer in the Twin Cities is vibrant, full of life, and offers something for everyone. Make your plans, get outside, and enjoy everything Minneapolis and St. Paul have to offer!

Whether you're a long-time local or just visiting, summer in the Twin Cities is vibrant, full of life, and offers something for everyone. Make your plans, get outside, and enjoy everything Minneapolis and St. Paul have to offer!