Categories for Twin Cities Fun
July 11, 2024 9:42 pm
Finding the perfect apartment rental in the Twin Cities is just the beginning of your adventure. With Sela Investments Apartments, you’ll have access to comfortable, stylish living spaces located near some of the best family-friendly attractions in Minneapolis and St. Paul. This summer, make a splash at these top family-friendly public beaches that are perfect for fun and relaxation.
1. Bde Maka Ska (Lake Calhoun) North Beach
Bde Maka Ska North Beach is a favorite for families, offering clean, sandy shores and lifeguard services. The surrounding park features walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds, making it an ideal spot for a full day of activities.
2. Lake Harriet North Beach
Lake Harriet North Beach combines natural beauty with plenty of amenities. Families can enjoy swimming, picnicking, and exploring the nearby band shell, which often hosts live music and events.
3. Cedar Lake East Beach
Cedar Lake East Beach is a tranquil escape with clear waters and a spacious beach area. It’s perfect for families looking to enjoy a quieter, more relaxed environment while still having access to the beautiful scenery of the Twin Cities.
4. Lake Nokomis Main Beach
Lake Nokomis Main Beach offers a lively atmosphere with plenty of activities for children and adults alike. From swimming and sunbathing to paddleboarding and fishing, there’s something for everyone at this popular beach.
5. Hidden Falls Regional Park Beach
Located along the Mississippi River, Hidden Falls Regional Park Beach is a hidden gem in St. Paul. The park features a beautiful waterfall, hiking trails, and a sandy beach area, making it a great destination for family adventures.
6. Phalen Park Beach
Phalen Park Beach in St. Paul provides a picturesque setting with calm waters and well-maintained facilities. Families can enjoy swimming, boating, and picnicking in the expansive park, which also includes playgrounds and sports courts.
Explore these fantastic family-friendly public beaches this summer while enjoying the convenience and comfort of Sela Investments Apartment rentals in the Twin Cities. With our prime locations, you’re never far from the best outdoor experiences Minneapolis and St. Paul have to offer!
May 11, 2024 9:52 pm
Spring in the Twin Cities is a magical time, with blooming flowers creating vibrant displays across the region. If you’re looking for apartment rentals in Minneapolis or St. Paul, Sela Investments Apartments offer prime locations that bring you close to the best springtime attractions. Here are five of the best places to experience the beauty of spring flowers in Minneapolis and St. Paul.
1. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, part of the University of Minnesota, is a botanical paradise. With over 1,200 acres of gardens, woodlands, and prairies, it offers a stunning array of spring blooms. The annual Spring Flower Show is a highlight, featuring tulips, daffodils, and other seasonal flowers in breathtaking arrangements.
Where: 3675 Arboretum Drive, Chaska
Website: Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
2. Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
The Marjorie McNeely Conservatory at Como Park is a must-visit for flower enthusiasts. The Spring Flower Show in the Sunken Garden showcases a variety of blooms, including azaleas, lilies, and hydrangeas. The conservatory’s lush indoor gardens offer a colorful escape, no matter the weather outside.
Where: 1225 Estabrook Drive, St. Paul
Website: Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
3. Lyndale Park Rose Garden
Situated on the shores of Lake Harriet, the Lyndale Park Rose Garden is one of the oldest public rose gardens in the United States. Each spring, over 3,000 roses bloom in a stunning display of color and fragrance. The nearby Peace Garden and Perennial Garden also offer beautiful spring flower displays.
Where: 4124 Roseway Road, Minneapolis
Website: Lyndale Park Rose Garden
4. Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary
For a more naturalistic display of spring flowers, visit the Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary. This 15-acre garden is home to native wildflowers, ferns, and grasses, with many species blooming in spring. It’s a peaceful spot to enjoy the beauty of Minnesota’s native flora.
Where: 1 Theodore Wirth Pkwy, Minneapolis
Website: Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden
5. Minnesota State Horticultural Society’s Display Garden
Located at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, the Minnesota State Horticultural Society’s Display Garden is a hidden gem. Each spring, the garden bursts into bloom with a variety of flowers, including tulips, daffodils, and peonies. The garden is a beautiful spot to explore during a springtime stroll.
Where: 1265 Snelling Ave N, St. Paul
Website: Minnesota State Horticultural Society
Springtime in the Twin Cities is a season of vibrant colors and fragrant blooms. These five locations offer some of the best floral displays, making them perfect destinations for flower lovers and anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of the season. With Sela Investments Apartments, you’ll always be close to the action, enjoying both luxurious living and easy access to these beautiful springtime spots. Explore our apartment rentals in Minneapolis and St. Paul to find your perfect home this spring!
December 15, 2022 7:03 pm
There are so many activities and events for families throughout the twin cities – starting this holiday season and throughout the rest of winter!
Visit the magical Christmas Village and authentic European Christmas Market at the Depot this holiday season! Open the first three weekends of December with FREE rides there with Metro Transit!
GLOW Holiday Festival – visit now through January 1st. Stroll through over a million lights, sElfie Plaza, Enchanted Forest, Bright Bikes, Tremendous Tree, and so much more! https://www.glowholiday.com
Don’t miss the amazing holiday tradition of Gingerbread Wonderland at Norway House! November 22 through January 8th. https://www.norwayhouse.org/gbw2022/
Dayton’s Winter Maker’s Market | Minneapolis December 19 @ 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Shop 65 local retailers and makers in downtown style. Nov. 17–Jan. 13, The Dayton’s Project, 700 Nicollet Mall, Mpls., thedaytonsproject.com
Get outside with this great Guide to Twin Cities Sledding Hills! https://www.familyfuntwincities.com/twin-cities-sledding-hills-guide/
Visit the MN Ice Maze throughout January and February! https://minnesotaicemaze.com
Enjoy art and creativity at the Art Shanty Projects multi-weekend event on Lake Harriet www.artshantyprojects.org
Attend the Saint Paul Winter Carnival! The Saint Paul Festival and Heritage Foundation’s 137th Saint Paul Winter Carnival will run for 10 days – all day on weekends and evenings during the week – from Thursday, January 26 through Sunday, February 5, 2023,
Most events are FREE, open to the public, and will take place in downtown Saint Paul, near Rice Park and Landmark Center, as well as at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. www.wintercarnival.com
Visit the Ice Castles – a winter wonderland in New Brighton in January 2023. Ice Castles is an awe-inspiring, must-see winter phenomenon that brings fairy tales to life. There’s ice slides, caverns and archways, tunnels, artist made light sculptures, fountains and more! https://icecastles.com/minnesota/
July 27, 2022 3:00 pm
Throughout the summer, the Twin Cities is home to a wide variety of free and cheap activities for kids and adults alike. Check out a few of our favorite spots and enjoy the rest of the sunny season!
The Walker Art Center Sculpture Garden: The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is free, requires no tickets for admission, and is open from 6 am to 12 midnight every day! More info click HERE
Visit the Mill City Farmers Market for free entertainment and shopping along the
riverfront Saturday mornings. Explore Mill Ruins Park. More info click HERE
The Como Zoo and Conservatory is a free/donation-based zoo with a Japanese garden, conservatory and a carousel. More info click HERE
Visit Bde Maka Ska Park – the largest link in the Chain of Lakes that has three beaches and walking trails. More info click HERE
Visit Minnehaha Park, one of Minneapolis’ oldest and most popular parks featuring a majestic 53-foot waterfall, limestone bluffs, and river overlooks. More info click HERE
A list of places in Minnesota to watch outdoor movies for FREE this summer! More info click HERE
The North Commons water park features loop slides, a shallow water pool, water playground features, geysers and funbrellas, and a wading pool – lots of fun for everyone with FREE admission for kids. More info click HERE
January 10, 2022 4:35 pm
While Minnesota’s winter weather may be a bit discouraging when it comes to outdoor fun, the Twin Cities embraces its northern roots with a wide variety of family-friendly activities throughout the season.
From the St. Paul Winter Carnival to a kite festival (yes, in the winter!), an art sled rally at Powderhorn Park and so much more. Visit Family Fun Twin Cities’ comprehensive list, and make some fun winter plans!
Click HERE for the list
November 24, 2021 3:39 pm
Thanksgiving is a holiday of abundance, but after another year of the pandemic, many are still struggling just to make ends meet. Fortunately, there are plenty of food banks in the Twin Cities committed to making sure everyone’s plates are full.
Whether you’re looking to make a donation, to volunteer, or need a helping hand yourself, the following organizations have you covered.
Twin Cities Mutual Aid Project – Food Bank Map
https://twin-cities-mutual-aid.org/
Second Harvest Heartland
https://www.2harvest.org/
Open Arms Minnesota – Annual Turkey Drive
https://www.openarmsmn.org/turkey-drive-2021/
Groveland Emergency Food Shelf
https://www.grovelandfoodshelf.org/
Meals on Wheels
https://meals-on-wheels.com/
September 8, 2021 5:28 pm
Looking to squeeze in an affordable family get-away or day trip before the chill sets in? Exploring our home state of Minnesota won’t break the bank and offers a glimpse into the cultural heritage of our many different regions, their history and traditions. Check out some of our favorite picks for festivals and events in greater MN this month:
Defeat of Jesse James Days
Northfield, MN
Sept 8th – 12th
An annual event that began in 1948, the residents of Northfield, MN have been reenacting the famed Jesse James robbery and celebrating their legacy in his defeat, since. Enjoy food, live music, rodeo, car show, arts and crafts and more. Learn more HERE.
Taste of Hutchinson
Hutchinson, MN
Sept 16th – 17th
A large annual arts festival held in beautiful downtown Hutchinson, MN, this event boasts 12,000 attendees each year. Shop a plethora of artists, makers, and craftspeople’s wares in Library Square Park, and partake in delicious food and live music through the weekend. Learn more HERE.
Boats & Bluegrass Festival
Winona, MN
Sept 23rd – 25th
Head to Winona, MN for a family-friendly fest on the shores of the Mighty Mississippi featuring 3 days of live music! Camping and boat rentals are available for your enjoyment, plus, kids 16 and under get in FREE with a paying adult. Learn more HERE.
To search dozens of other Minnesota-based destination events and festivals, visit Explore Minnesota HERE.
December 9, 2020 8:35 pm
The holiday season is in full swing, but the way we shop and interact has changed significantly. We’ve sussed out some of the best ways to shop virtually and affordably — with a local twist! Check off your holiday gift list and support the little guys at the same time with our local guide.
St. Paul Virtual European Christmas Market
An annual holiday shopping tradition, St. Paul’s European Christmas Market has gone virtual this year, with access to local vendors and fun Facebook performances of your fave seasonal tunes. Shop here and learn more: Visit Website
Julmarknad: Virtual Winter Market at ASI
The American Swedish Institute may be shuttered temporarily due to the pandemic, but their holiday cheer remains in tact. Shop unique finds by scrolling through a comprehensive list of artists and makers on the ASI site. From jewelry to artwork to ceramics and much more, this Scandinavian maker’s mart is a great gifting source. More details: Visit Website
Roho Collective Virtual Market
Support local artists and fulfill your holiday wishlist at the same time! Roho Collective features artwork, apparel, and more hand-crafted by black artists based in the Twin Cities such as Ron Brown, Christopher Aaron Deanes, Angela Davis, and more. Learn more: Visit Website
NEMAA Online Holiday Shop
Nothing says “I love you” like local art. The Northeast Minneapolis Arts Association (NEMAA) has created an addicting database of member artists and their handmade goods. From original paintings to $5 artist-made keychains and much more, NEMAA artists are a sure-bet on anyone’s happy holiday gift list. Shop now here: Visit Website
February 23, 2020 10:40 pm
Though we’re entering the home stretch of winter, the cabin fever is real! We’ve compiled a list of indoor/outdoor activities to get you primed for the big thaw, even though there’s still a chill in the air.
Stop to Smell the Flowers
Visit the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory at Como Park for a literal breath of summer air. This temperature controlled 70 degrees Fahrenheit plant sanctuary is the perfect cure to your winter blues. Explore the Tropical Encounters exhibit for a bit of humidity and color, then take a spin through the Sunken Garden, Fern Room, Palm Dome, and much more — and experience a lush, green respite from the dreary landscape.
For more info click HERE
Climb Up
Climbing and ice don’t make a good combination during the winter months in the Twin Cities. Luckily, we’re home to a number of indoor rock climbing gyms where everyone from beginners to experts can try their hand at (safely) scaling a wall without worry of ice, snow, or arctic temps. Many gyms have day passes available for a one-time experience or to try it out, as well as monthly memberships.
For more info click HERE
Take a Sauna
When the winter chill just won’t leave your bones, a sauna is a surefire cure. Having made a resurgence over the past few years, the classic sauna experience can be found at a number of locations in the Twin Cities, from the YWCA to the Hewing Hotel (yes, you can get a day pass!), and even at the trailhead to Theo Wirth Park. Grab some friends and put the cold behind you — for a little while at least.
For more info click HERE
November 25, 2019 3:37 pm
Looking for one-of-a-kind gifts for the special people on your list? The Twin Cities is full of makers, artists, small businesses, and more, ready to share their wares. Shop local this holiday season, and get creative with your gift giving.
Mill City Holiday Markets
Over 40 local farmers and makers get together each week in December to offer handmade gifts and food to round out your holiday season.
Dec. 7, 14, Mill City Museum, 704 S. 2nd St., Mpls., Click HERE for info.
Black Friday on Broadway
Head to the North side this weekend for Black Friday and Small Business Saturday deals from local shops and businesses on the West Broadway corridor.
Nov. 29-30, NEON, 1007 W. Broadway Ave., Mpls. Click HERE for info.
Excelsior Christkindlsmarkt
Get in the holiday spirit this weekend with a German-style open air holiday market and community festival. Shop unique holiday gifts from local vendors, sample holiday food, and enjoy outdoor entertainment — don’t forget to bundle up!
Nov. 29-Dec. 1, Downtown Excelsior, Click HERE for info.
Hygge Holiday Market
Craft cocktails and handmade holiday gifts? Sign us up! Head to Lawless Distilling in South Minneapolis Sundays in December to shop a rotating lineup of local artisans — while sipping a fancy cocktail.
Sundays Dec. 1-22, Lawless Distilling, 2619 28th Ave. S., Mpls., Click HERE for info.
For more Holiday pop-up markets, visit MSP Mag’s comprehensive list HERE.
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October 21, 2019 2:01 pm
From family-friendly festivities to romantic fall foliage drives, Minnesota has you covered. Get out and celebrate the season before winter arrives! Below you’ll find a few of our top picks, but you can also visit ExploreMinnesota.com for a comprehensive guide to seasonal and year-round fun in the region.
Jack-o-Lantern Spectacular
@ Minnesota Zoo
Now through Nov 3rd
Pack up the fam and head to the Minnesota Zoo, where you’ll stroll the grounds taking in over 5000 carved, illuminated pumpkins of all shapes and sizes, from ground to tree top. Also explore the zoo’s straw maze and on the weekends, enjoy special entertainment such as live music, costumed characters, carousel rides, and more.
Tickets must be purchased ahead of time via the MN Zoo website HERE.
Scenic Fall Colors Drive
Take a leisurely drive to see the fall colors changing before it’s too late. Up North the color rate has accelerated due to early frost, but we’ve still got plenty of colors popping in the middle and southern regions of the state. Check Explore MN for their weekly Fall Color Update — a guide to where to see the best fall colors by area. A nice romantic day trip with your partner or a treat for the kids, a fall foliage drive is a seasonal must-do.
Click HERE for the Fall Color Update
Fall Brew Tour
While not an “official” tour expedition, Autumn is the perfect time to hit up local and regional breweries to sample their hand-crafted wares. Keep it local within the city limits (Northeast Minneapolis is a mecca for craft breweries) or take a jaunt in just about any direction in the state of Minnesota to discover new brews. In fact, the Growler Magazine has a “Land of 10,000 Drinks” map to help you figure out your destination — from breweries to distilleries.
Click HERE for the Growler’s 10,000 Drinks Map
July 16, 2019 1:35 am
Summer in Minnesota is a beautiful thing. Make the most of it before hibernation season returns by exploring what the Twin Cities has to offer — from neighborhood-wide art experiences to quirky hometown festivals. Here are a few of our top picks for epic summer fun this July:
Hopkins Raspberry Festival
July 13-21st (Main events 19-21st) / Hopkins, MN
Apparently Hopkins used to be a Raspberry growing mecca, and to this day the metro area suburb still celebrates its history with gusto. From parades, street fairs, and fireworks to fishing competitions, “Raspberry Royalty” coronations, a classic car show and oh-so much more, this quirky hometown festival is definitely worth experiencing. Learn more HERE.
Open Streets Minneapolis
July 21st / Lake St. & Minnehaha Ave.
Open Streets pops up in various neighborhoods all summer, with the most timely edition landing in South Minneapolis’ Lake & Minnehaha area. In an event that allows the community to take back the streets, literally, you’ll be free to traverse a mapped-out expanse of city streets closed down to automotive traffic. Ride bikes, walk, rollerblade, enjoy food vendors, community activities, fun, and games throughout the neighborhood. Learn more HERE.
FLOW Northside Arts Crawl
July 27th / Various Locations
Head over North for this vibrant community-wide art crawl, with artists, galleries, theaters, and businesses opening their doors to showcase the colorful work of creatives living and working in North Minneapolis. Enjoy performances, food vendors, and original art by over 300 artists of various backgrounds, ages, and mediums. Learn more HERE.
Loring Park Art Festival
July 27-28th / Loring Park
Take a stroll through Minneapolis’ Loring Park to discover over 140 artists showcasing their wares over the course of two days. Peruse original works in a wide variety of mediums and price points. A fun experience for the whole family, the Loring Park Art Festival also offers tasty food and drink options from local faves such as Anchor Fish & Chips, Sarah’s Tipsy Pies, and more. Learn more HERE.
June 3, 2019 5:28 pm
Summer in Minnesota is full of unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences. From music festivals to small town novelty events, there’s always something fun (and often, weird) to discover in the land of 10,000 lakes. Take an affordable, close-to-home weekend adventure to check out something new. Road trip, anyone? Below you’ll find a few suggestions on cool and quirky events happening during the month of June:
40th Annual Woodtick Races
June 8th / The Woodtick Inn / Deerwood, MN
Only in Minnesota could you expect to find an event based on a woodland parasite. At the Woodtick Inn in beautiful Deerwood, MN, these bloodsuckers definitely get their moment in the sun. For 40 years, people have been showing up to “race” ticks on the Inn’s custom-made tick course. Human “jockeys” compete for cash and prizes, and also enjoy food, beer, entertainment, vendors, crafters, and more.
Click HERE to visit the Woodtick Race’s Facebook event page
Nisswa-Stamman Scandinavian Folk Music Festival
June 7th-8th / Nisswa, MN
Experience Scandinavian cultural music and traditions at this annual festival, which features over 150 folk musicians performing on five stages. Enjoy two all-day dance floors, a children’s activity tent, and traditional Scandinavian food (hello, Smörgåsbord) set to the backdrop of beautiful Nisswa Pioneer Village.
Learn more about the Nisswa-Stamman festival by clicking here
Turtle Fest
June 12-16th / Pelham, MN
Leave it up to Minnesotans to come up with a festival revolving around…turtles. Yes, Turtle Fest in Pelham, MN is an annual tradition that’s as cute as it sounds. A five day extravaganza, Turtle Fest features live music, food, kids activities, a street fair, a parade, a classic car show and of course, the town’s famous turtle races.
Visit the Turtle Fest website by clicking here
Paul Bunyan Days
June 28-29th / Akeley, MN
The town of Akeley aka “The Birthplace of Paul Bunyan” is well-known for its annual festival honoring this iconic figure of American folklore. For the 71st year in a row, you can partake in Akeley’s celebration, with food, music, a tractor pull, Paul Bunyan look-a-like contest, parades, minnow and turtle races, a flea market, art show, and much, much more.
Click here to learn more about Paul Bunyan Days
February 18, 2019 4:40 pm
Photo credit: AJ Mellor for Icecastles.com
Embrace the deep freeze and celebrate the Minnesota way — by bundling up and exploring the great outdoors. Get together with family and friends to explore the Ice Castles attraction in Excelsior, MN, a winter wonderland that’s fun for all ages. Wander among hundreds of thousands of icicles hand-placed by ice artists and marvel at LED-lit sculptures throughout. Wind your way through the ice caves, climb a tower, and take the fun way down on a solid ice slide. A unique winter adventure, close to home!
You’ll warm up with fire dancers and hula hoopers from Insphyre Performance, who beautifully contrast the icy backdrop with their fiery talents from 6-9pm on Fridays and Saturdays. For the kids, come on Saturday or Sunday afternoons between 12-5pm to take a photo with the enchanted Frozen sisters.
For more info, hours of operation, and to purchase tickets in advance (recommended) click HERE.
December 17, 2018 8:19 pm
The holidays are officially upon us, and gift-giving abounds! For those last-minute shoppers who looking for something unique, there are multiple local pop-up markets still happening this week in the Twin Cities. Buy one-of-a-kind gifts from a wide variety of local artisans and makers to delight the loved ones on your list. Not, to mention, you’ll also be supporting independent artists — a win-win!
#ShopJXTA Pop-up Shop @ Juxtaposition Arts
Now through Thursday, Dec 20th (10am-4pm daily)
Snap up handmade art, ceramics, screen-printed textiles and much more at Juxtaposition Arts, made by JXTA’s young adult apprentices.
Click HERE for details
Artists’ Holiday Shop @ Soo Visual Arts Center
Through Dec 23rd (Wed 11-5, Thurs-Fri 11-7, Sat-Sun 11-4)
A long-standing tradition at Minneapolis contemporary art space, SooVAC, the annual Artists’ Holiday Shop is an excellent chance to get your mittens on art from some of the city’s favorite creatives — at accessible price points.
Click HERE for more info
Linden Hills Holiday Market @ Sunnyside Gardens
Sunday, December 23rd (9am-2pm)
Host to a fantastic selection of craftspeople, artisan food producers, and ready-to-eat food makers, the Linden Hills Holiday Market is an eclectic shopping experience with over 60 vendors.
Click HERE for more info
Hygge Holiday Market @ Lawless Distilling
Dec. 23rd (4pm-8pm)
For the serious last-minute shopper, this evening pop-up combines cocktails and Christmas shopping. Enjoy holiday-themed sips while perusing a curated selection of local makers and artisans.
Click HERE for more info