Your Twin Cities Gateway Summer 2026 Bucket List!

The sun is out and the days are long, which means it is time to tackle your Twin Cities Gateway summer bucket list. Whether you have kids to entertain or you are looking for a great date night, here is exactly where you need to go across our 11 communities.

Anoka

Anoka is full of historic charm and riverside views. It is the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon walking the shops and enjoying the local food scene.

• Two Scoops: This is a must for a classic summer afternoon. It is located right in the historic downtown area and serves up massive portions of ice cream. 1918 2nd Ave, Anoka, MN 55303 | twoscoopsanoka.com

• Anoka Riverfest & Craft Show: This is one of the largest craft shows in the state. Held in July, it features over 200 crafters, great food, and live music right in the heart of the historic downtown. Downtown Anoka, MN 55303 | anokariverfest.com

Arden Hills

This summer is a big one for Arden Hills as the city celebrates a major milestone. Between the beautiful lake views and the community parties, there is plenty to do.

• Lake Johanna Beach: Head to Tony Schmidt Regional Park to enjoy the water. The beach is sandy and the lake is a favorite for swimming and sunbathing. 3500 Lake Johanna Blvd, Arden Hills, MN 55112 | ramseycounty.us

• Arden Hills 75th Anniversary Celebration: Make sure to be at Cummings Park on Friday, July 17 for the big community party. It features the Penny Carnival, live music, and a drone light show at the end of the night. 1219 Cummings Park Dr, Arden Hills, MN 55112 | cityofardenhills.org

Blaine

Blaine is the place to be for big events and high-energy fun. From massive festivals to indoor entertainment, you will never be bored here.

• The Blaine Festival: This summer staple at Aquatore Park runs from June 26 through June 28. It has a huge parade, carnival rides, a petting zoo, and live entertainment for the adults. 9191 Lincoln St NE, Blaine, MN 55434 | blainefestival.org

• The Fun Lab: If you need to beat the heat, head inside to this massive attraction park. You can challenge your friends to laser tag, navigate the ropes course, or try out the virtual reality experiences. 10650 Baltimore St NE Suite 300, Blaine, MN 55449 | thefunlabcenter.com

Coon Rapids

If you want to spend your day in the water or competing on a mini golf course, Coon Rapids is your destination. It is a paradise for families who love to stay active.

• Bunker Beach Water Park: This is the ultimate summer destination for water lovers. Between the wave pool and the lazy river, you can easily spend an entire day here. 701 County Rd A, Coon Rapids, MN 55433 | bunkerbeach.com

• Lilli Putt: Right down the road from the water park, you can play 18 holes of mini golf or race go-karts. It is a classic spot for families. 1349 Coon Rapids Blvd NW, Coon Rapids, MN 55433 | lilliputt.net

Fridley

Fridley offers a great mix of historic industrial vibes and top-tier entertainment. It is one of the best spots in the area for live music and relaxing patios.

• Crooners Supper Club: For the best music in the area, head to their outdoor tent, The Belvedere. It sits right on Moore Lake and features live jazz and soul performances every night. 6161 Hwy 65 NE, Fridley, MN 55432 | croonersloungemn.com

• Forgotten Star Brewing Co.: This brewery is located in a cool historic building and has a huge outdoor patio. It is a great place for adults to relax with a craft beer in the evening. 38 Northern Stacks Dr, Fridley, MN 55421 | forgottenstarbrewing.com

Ham Lake

Ham Lake keeps the small-town summer feel alive with community festivals and local hangouts. It is a great place to slow down and enjoy a firework show or a game of bowling.

• Ham Lake Freedom Festival: On June 27, head to the Lions Park for this community event. It is a full day of kids’ activities, bingo, and a massive fireworks show at 10 PM. 1220 157th Ave NE, Ham Lake, MN 55304 | hamlakeareachamber.org

• Ham Lake Lanes & Lounge: This is a local favorite for bowling and casual food. The lounge area is a popular spot for adults to gather and have a drink after a few frames. 16465 MN-65, Ham Lake, MN 55304 | hamlakelanes.com

Lino Lakes

For those who love nature and local wildlife, Lino Lakes is a dream. You can spend the morning on the trails and the afternoon on a great outdoor patio.

• Wargo Nature Center: Located in the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes, this center is perfect for exploring. Kids can learn about local animals and walk the floating boardwalks. 7701 Main St, Lino Lakes, MN 55038 | anokacountyparks.com

• The Tavern On Main: After exploring the park, stop by this tavern. It has a great outdoor patio and a menu full of local favorites like burgers and walleye. 8001 Lake Dr, Lino Lakes, MN 55014 | tavernonmainmn.com

Mounds View

Mounds View has some fantastic spots for kids to cool off and for the community to come together. The parks here are perfect for a simple, fun summer day.

• Mounds View Splash Down Splash Pad: This is located at the community center and is the best place in town for little kids to cool off. It is safe, fenced-in, and free to use. 2401 Mounds View Blvd, Mounds View, MN 55112 | moundsviewmn.org

• Silver View Park: This park is the home of the Festival in the Park in August. It has a great playground and plenty of open green space for a game of catch or a summer picnic. 2700 County Rd I, Mounds View, MN 55112 | moundsviewmn.org

New Brighton

New Brighton offers some of the best scenic views in the Gateway. Whether you are attending a local festival or having a nice dinner, you will find a great atmosphere here.

• Long Lake Regional Park: This park has a massive beach and a high bridge with a great view. It is also the main site for the New Brighton Stockyard Days celebration in early August. 1500 Old Hwy 8, New Brighton, MN 55112 | ramseycounty.us

• The Exchange Food and Drink: Go here for a nice dinner on their outdoor terrace. They serve modern American food and have a great selection of craft cocktails for a summer evening. 500 5th Ave NW, New Brighton, MN 55112 | theexchangefoodanddrink.com

Ramsey

Ramsey is a great community for those who enjoy outdoor music and high-quality golf. The events here make it easy to shop local and enjoy the fresh air.

• The Draw: On Thursday nights, this amphitheater comes alive with a summer concert series. It is located right next to the town’s farmers market, so you can shop and listen to music at the same time. 7401 Ramsey Blvd NW, Ramsey, MN 55303 | cityoframsey.com

• The Links at Northfork: This is a top-tier golf course that feels like you are playing in Scotland. It is a great challenge for adults, and the clubhouse is a solid spot for a post-round meal. 9333 Alpine Dr NW, Ramsey, MN 55303 | linksatnorthfork.com

Shoreview

Shoreview is a hub for both the arts and family recreation. You can see world-class art and then head to one of the most popular playgrounds in the metro area.

• Cafesjian Art Trust Museum: This museum is a world-class hidden gem. The collection of glass art is breathtaking and it is a cool, quiet place to spend an hour away from the summer sun. 4600 Churchill St, Shoreview, MN 55126 | thecat.org

• Shoreview Commons Park: This park features a massive destination playground that kids love. On Wednesday nights, they host free concerts, making it a great community gathering spot. 4580 Victoria St N, Shoreview, MN 55126 | shoreviewmn.gov