Free Things to do with Kids
The Twin Cities Gateway region is a family-friendly destination filled with exciting activities that cater to all ages, particularly those seeking free experiences for kids. From festive pumpkin carving events to enchanting park movie nights, there’s always something happening to engage young minds and create lasting memories. Families can enjoy close-up encounters with animals, participate in fun yoga story hours, and explore various outdoor activities that promote creativity and learning. With such a wealth of offerings, the Twin Cities Gateway is the perfect place for families to connect and enjoy quality time together.
Children’s Pumpkin Carving Contest
Known as the Halloween Capital of the World, Anoka hosts several family-friendly, free events during spooky season, including the Children’s Pumpkin Carving Contest. Held on Saturday, Oct. 19, the contest provides contestants with gutted pumpkins, making it easy for your children to attend. All pumpkins will be displayed on a parade float later that day and several jack-o-lanterns will be awarded, too.
Rumriver Art Center
Rumriver Art Center offers a free family art day on one Saturday every month for families ages 4 and up. If looking for something geared more towards your teenage kids, the center is hosting its free Plein Air Painting and Sketching Club classes every Wednesday now through Sept. 25. The class is ideal for ages 15 and up.
Movie in the Park
Coon Rapids will be hosting its biannual Movie in the Park night on Saturday, Sept. 14 at 8:45 p.m. Hosted by the city, this year’s movie night will feature the family film “Migration.” Admission is not only free for kids, but adults as well. Bring blankets, lawn chairs, and pillows, and take advantage of concessions that will be available by 7:45. Don’t make is this fall? No problem—the city will host its next Movie in the Park night in May 2025.
Springbrook Nature Center
Boasting three miles of hiking trails and an interpretive center, Fridley’s Springbrook Nature Center offers several family-friendly programs free for children. The center offers an animal feeding program every Sunday at 11:30 a.m., where kids will not only have the opportunity to watch the animals eat but learn about feeding behaviors from the naturalists.
Culture in the Commons
Kids can learn about the various cultures of the Shoreview and greater Twin Cities regions at Culture in the Commons. Hosted by the Shoreview Community Center, the program is held every Sunday for four consecutive Sundays starting Sept. 15. This year’s themes include Afoutayi, Chinese Dance Theater, Los Alegres Bailadores, and Siama.
Mermaid Entertainment & Event Center
Summer may be ending, but that doesn’t mean you can’t look forward to and plan ahead for next summer—especially with kids! Mermaid Entertainment & Event Center in Mounds View offers family pass owners the chance to enjoy two free games of bowling for kids every day during the spring and summer.
Ramsey County Library
Enjoy in-person readings, literacy programs, and arts and crafts at Ramsey County Library’s chain of locations, which host several events every month free to children and adults. Family-friendly options include but are not limited to Yoga Storytime, Global Yum Club, Paws to Read, and Maker Kids.
