Are you planning a family outing in the Twin Cities but don’t know where to take your kids? Worry no more, as this article is here to guide you. Below are ten must-visit kid-friendly Twin Cities stores for your next family outing.
1. Dunn Brothers Coffee, Linden Hills, Minneapolis
Kids can enjoy a small space with a chalkboard and a shelf of toys while parents can get their daily caffeine intake at a nearby table. Dunn Brothers Coffee offers steamers or hot chocolate, milk, and chocolate milk, as well as a variety of teas and soft drink options. In addition, the bakery offers bagels, muffins, biscuits, pastries, and cookies.
2. Carma Coffee, 520 NE Lowry Ave, Minneapolis
Carma Coffee has a relaxed atmosphere with a cool car theme. It is less play-friendly than some of these other shops. Kid-friendly menu options include pastries, cookies, and smoothies.
3. Ginkgo Coffeehouse, 721 N. Snelling Ave, St Paul, MN
Ginkgo’s little space for children is tucked away between some shelving and is relatively no-frills. There’s a fuzzy patch of carpet to sit on and a blackboard along the wall to scribble on with a few stubs of chalk.
A few toys, puzzles, board games, and books at this kid-friendly Twin Cities store will entertain preschoolers for a short while – maybe long enough for mom to eat a grilled panini or some of Gingko’s special veggie lasagna. In the summer, take advantage of the cafes’ two outdoor patios. Also, look for kid-friendly concerts on select Saturday mornings.
4. Sovereign Grounds
Sovereign Grounds takes children seriously, so it makes our list of kid-friendly Twin Cities stores to bring the kiddos. The space is ample (an entire dedicated room), clean, and stocked with quality playthings.
Tables are a little packed, but their proximity to the toys means you can easily watch your kid while sipping fabulous coffee and chatting with a friend. So prepare for a buzz of morning activity that eases up after the lunch hour. A bathroom is conveniently located nearby, and the coffeehouse menu includes fresh bakery items, exciting salads, and plenty of inexpensive child-pleasing snacks.
5. Mall of America, Bloomington
The Mall of America is much more than a mall and a fantastic family travel destination. It has an indoor amusement park, the Crayola Experience, restaurants, Fly Over America, and more. It is a must-visit place in Minneapolis.
The Crayola Experience is a new attraction where your kids can name and wrap their crayons along with two dozen other colorful activities. Find fun and excitement at the new The Fair on four, where your family can savor fair-inspired foods like cheese curds and house-cut fries, compete in axe throwing (with parent or guardian), drive a go-cart, and more.
6. Candyland
Satisfy your kids’ sugar cravings at Candyland. The first Candyland store opened in St. Paul in 1932 to sell popcorn and fudge, but it has since grown into a full-fledged candy wonderland for kids! Today, it offers a wide selection of popcorn, hand-dipped chocolates made from scratch, old-fashioned treats like jellies and sours, brittles and barks, and licorice. There’s so much to choose from in Candyland that even adults will find something for themselves.
7. Legacy Chocolate
This sweet spot in the Pioneer Endicott Building in downtown St. Paul offers some of the best high-quality chocolate you’ll ever taste. What sets Legacy Chocolates apart is their commitment to using only the finest ingredients in their handcrafted chocolate. So say goodbye to the unhealthy additives commonly found in mass-produced sweets, and say hello to real chocolate that tastes divine!
While you’re there, check out their Chocolate Cafe, where you and your kids can watch the chocolate-making process right before your eyes through the glass windows. Not in the mood for chocolate? No problem! The cafe also offers coffee, baked goods, and ice cream for everyone.
8. Pizzeria Lola
Looking for a fun-filled family night that you and your little ones will enjoy? Look no further than Pizzeria Lola in Minneapolis! Not only do they serve up some seriously delicious pizza that’ll have everyone licking their fingers, but they also offer warm cookies and yummy soft-serve ice cream drizzled with olive oil (trust us, it’s fantastic).
Let’s not forget the pièce de résistance: a photo booth to capture all the special moments of your family night out. Pizzeria Lola knows how to keep kids and adults happy, making it the perfect spot for your next family outing. So don’t miss out on the fun!
9. Tilia
Tilia, located in the quaint community of Linden Hills, is the ideal place for a relaxed yet elegant family lunch. Locals love Chef Steven Brown’s distinctive take on American food, and his menu has something for everyone—even the small ones. Tilia is distinguished by its lovely metal lunchboxes, which feature entertaining activities for children while parents enjoy a craft brew or glass of wine. Tilia is a must-go-to regardless of whether you’re going for a family dinner date or a weekend brunch.
10. Sweet Science Ice Cream
Who doesn’t love ice cream? And when it’s handcrafted to perfection using only the finest natural ingredients, you know you’re in for a treat. At Sweet Science Ice Cream, they take their ice cream seriously. Every flavor is made with care and attention to detail, resulting in a truly unique and delicious taste.
You won’t find artificial additives here, just whole, natural ingredients, making 96% of their flavors gluten-free. And the best part? They make every syrup, cookie, swirl, and crunch by hand in their Saint Paul kitchen. So sweet Science is the place to be if you’re seeking guilt-free indulgence.
FAQs
Are these stores suitable for all ages?
While these stores are designed with children in mind, adults can enjoy the activities and treats offered at each location.
Are pets allowed in any of these stores?
Some stores allow pets, but it’s best to check with the individual store before bringing your furry friend.
Do any of these stores offer discounts or coupons for families?
Some stores may offer discounts or coupons for families, so it’s worth checking their websites or social media pages for current promotions.
Conclusion
The Twin Cities is an excellent destination for your next family outing with a wide variety of fun and unique kid-friendly stores. From toy stores and candy shops to ice cream parlors and restaurants, these stores offer plenty of activities and treats to entertain kids and adults.
However, it’s important to remember that play spaces may not always be available or open, so we recommend calling ahead to confirm. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, check out these ten must-visit kid-friendly Twin Cities stores for an unforgettable family experience.