Beyond the Medals: Your Guide to Exploring the Twin Cities Gateway During the Special Olympics USA Games

The energy, determination, and pure joy of the Special Olympics USA Games are officially here! While the thrilling competitions and high-five-filled Fan Zones at the National Sports Center in Blaine keep everyone moving, every athlete, coach, and family member needs a little downtime to recharge. Whether you are looking for a quiet pocket of nature to decompress, a charming local boutique to explore, or a welcoming spot to celebrate a hard-fought match, the 11 communities of the Twin Cities Gateway are ready to welcome you with open arms.

Instead of making you hunt down where to go during your stay, here is an insider’s roadmap to a few of our favorite local, independent spots to unwind, beat the summer heat, and make memories together during the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games.

Accessible and Serene Nature Escapes

If the cheering crowds and high-energy excitement leave you or your athlete looking for a sensory-friendly break, our local parks offer the perfect breath of fresh air. Take a gentle stroll along the flat, paved paths and the stunning 900-foot floating boardwalk at Springbrook Nature Center in Fridley. It is a wonderfully quiet space to spot local wildlife without strenuous hiking. For a scenic lakeside view, the wide paved loops at Silver Lake Park in Mounds View or the relaxing, open waterfront at Shoreview Commons provide beautiful green spaces to slow down, stretch your legs, and enjoy a sunny afternoon.

Art, Culture, and Family Fun

If you want to experience incredible culture in a relaxed, quiet setting, don’t miss the Cafesjian Art Trust Museum (the CAT) in Shoreview. It is free to visit, fully accessible, and offers a peaceful, personal way to view world-class modern art and stunning studio glass.

For a completely different kind of fun, head over to Lilli Putt Amusement Park in Coon Rapids. A beloved local fixture for over 50 years, it features a charming 18-hole mini-golf course, go-karts, and bumper boats that guarantee smiles for the whole family. If you need to beat the June heat, Bunker Beach Water Park (located right inside Bunker Hills Regional Park in Coon Rapids) is Minnesota’s largest outdoor water park, complete with a lazy river and a zero-depth entry tidal wave pool that makes splashing around accessible for everyone.

Charming Local Boutiques and Casual Strolls

Looking to pick up a meaningful, Minnesota-made souvenir or a thoughtful gift to take home? Skip the stressful, crowded shopping malls and enjoy a relaxing walk through Historic Downtown Anoka. Known for its wide, accessible sidewalks and incredibly warm hospitality, you can easily wander into unique, independent shops. Stop by the Anoka Clothing Company for casual local styles, explore The Hub LLC Home Decor & Gifts Boutique to browse curated treasures from local makers, or pop into Ginny Bites for a sweet treat. Supporting these independent businesses means you get a truly unique experience while absorbing authentic community warmth.

Welcoming Dining and Local Sips

Celebrating an incredible performance or a day of amazing volunteering calls for a great meal where you can truly relax. Enjoy the casual, friendly neighborhood atmosphere at The Exchange Food and Drink in New Brighton—a fantastic independent spot where large families can sit back and review the day’s highlights.

For the adults looking to unwind after a long day of cheering, take a short drive up to Ham Lake and visit the cozy tasting room at Willow Tree Winery. This independent “mom-and-pop” vineyard grows cold-climate grapes right on-site, offering a peaceful, hidden-gem atmosphere where you can enjoy a relaxing glass of local wine.

If you are just looking for a sweet treat to celebrate a great day, treat the team to a creative custom cupcake or macaron at Something Sweet by Maddie Lu in Coon Rapids.

Parks and Playgrounds for All Abilities

If you have younger siblings in tow who still have energy to burn, or if you’re checking out the Young Athletes programming, the area boasts incredible inclusive recreation spaces. Head over to the Blaine Baseball Complex in Blaine to experience their fantastic inclusive playground. Positioned right alongside their Miracle Field, it features smooth, accessible surfacing, ramps, and sensory play elements designed so that children and athletes of all abilities can play side-by-side safely, comfortably, and without barriers.

From the starting whistles to the closing ceremonies, we are incredibly proud to host these inspiring individuals in our region. As you celebrate the amazing abilities on display this week, we invite you to take things at your own pace and discover the local spots that make our corner of Minnesota so special. Welcome to the Gateway! We are cheering for you!