Must-Do Family Summer Activities to Try in Minnesota

Minnesota is the best place to live for outdoor activities, especially during the summer. There are plenty of summer activities for kids in Minnesota that adults will enjoy just as much.

Ready to make it the best summer yet? Try these outdoor activities with your family and get ready to create lifelong memories (after you get your outdoor chores done, of course).

Float Down a River

In addition to our 11,842 lakes, Minnesota also has 6,564 natural rivers. Many of these make great tubing locations, including the Cannon, Zumbro and Mississippi River.

Tubing is a great way to make kids put down their electronics and spend time outside. It’s also relatively inexpensive, and the slow pace of river tubing gives families hours of time to bond. Bring your own tubes or look into river tubing rentals throughout the state.

Visit an Orchard

Want an outdoor activity both kids and parents will love? Go pick your own fruit at a local farm! Apples, raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, cherries and blackberries are all ripe for the picking in Minnesota this summer. Orchards like the Afton Apple Orchard and Berry Hill Farm are popular, with good reason.

Many orchards have additional activities such as playgrounds, petting zoos and wagon rides. Remember that each orchard’s rules are different, so do research beforehand and book an appointment if needed.

Have a Picnic

According to the Trust for Public Land, the Twin Cities have some of the best parks in the country – perfect for picnicking. Get creative with your family when preparing dishes or picking out your picnic basket, blanket and silverware. Don’t forget to pack bug spray and check the weather before you go.

Lake Harriet Park and Minnehaha Park are some of the best places to bring the family picnicking in the Twin Cities. Can’t make it to your local park? Have a picnic in your backyard or a secluded spot on your property. Cleaning or mowing your yard beforehand can make the experience even more pleasant.

Go Hiking

Hiking is one of the most enjoyable and inexpensive outdoor activities in Minnesota. The Superior Hiking Trail, Lebanon Hills Loop and Westwood Hills Nature Center are just a few of the many scenic places to take your family.

While hiking is one of the best summer activities for kids, it’s important to have the right gear before you set out. Make sure each family member has proper shoes, sunscreen and bug spray. Pack a map and first aid kit too, just in case!

Get More Done This Summer With Minnesota Equipment

If you are anything like us, you will be spending as much time outdoors this summer as possible. Minnesota Equipment ensures you have the tools you need to complete your outdoor tasks so you can make the most of your summer.