Kid-Approved Twin Cities
Updated: June 09, 2009
Whether planning a family vacation or just a day of fun, our editors recommend the best kid-approved restaurants, attractions and more.
On this page:Restaurants, Amusement and Water Parks, Museums and Zoos.
Restaurants
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Birchwood Cafe
Read Reviews3311 E 25th St, Minneapolis, MN 55406 (map)
This mostly organic and family-friendly restaurant in the Seward neighborhood has plenty of healthy and delicious kids' items even Mikey would like, including a 100-percent grass-fed beef hot dog. And for the true babes, Birchwood serves Sweet Cheeks baby food, made from 100 percent local and organic ingredients.
Gigi's Cafe
Read Reviews822 W 36th St, Minneapolis, MN 55408 (map)
A bakery and wine bar that's made it a favorite among adults, Gigi's Cafe also offers up a variety of foods--like the chicken quesadilla--and decadent treats that make it a perfect place to hang with the kids, too.
Hell's Kitchen
Read Reviews89 S 9th St, Minneapolis, MN 55403 (map)
The always-bustling Hell's Kitchen downtown serves up a mean Huevos Rancheros for breakfast. But don't let the name fool you: this South Street joint is kind to kids, even the little devils, serving up a kids menu that includes a fresh fruit kabob, waffles, a PB&J and the classic mac 'n' cheese.
Jax Cafe
Read Reviews1928 University Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418 (map)
Jax might be known as a Grade-A prime destination for its steak and old-school highball selections. But the Northeast mainstay is also a favorite for families and kids, offering up a meaty and veggie-filled menu for the tykes that even the adults love.
Longfellow Grill
Read Reviews2990 W River Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN 55406 (map)
The Longfellow isn't your typical neighborhood grill. No, this family-owned restaurant is an urban diner with all of the twists on the original, including a decor that's more metro than retro and a menu that's more fun than hum-drum. Plus, the kids menu, a colorful vibe and lots of toys make it a family favorite.
Pepitos Tex-Mex Bar & Grill
Read Reviews4820 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55417 (map)
Large tables, big booths and a festive atmosphere filled with families and lively, Mexican music make this family-owned restaurant a favorite for kids and moms and dads alike. Kids nosh on Mexican pizzas while the adults enjoy the margaritas, quesadillas and more.
Riverview Cafe
Write a review3753 42nd Ave Snch Roaduite 7, Minneapolis, MN 55406 (map)
This warm and inviting coffee shop and neighborhood cafe features great treats and live music on weekends--much of it folk-inspired. And for the kids there's an adjacent playroom--loaded with books, safe toys, worlds to explore and more.
Amusement and Water Parks
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Stadium Club Sports Bar
Read Reviews5000 Center Ct, Bloomington, MN 55425 (map)
Kiddies adore this indoor romper room inside the Mall of America, while parents shop, of course.
Skateville
Read Reviews201 S River Rdg Cir, Burnsville, MN 55337 (map)
No matter the age, roller-rink fun makes everyone feel like a carefree kid.
Tropics Indoor Water Park
Read Reviews4600 Victoria St N, Shoreview, MN 55126 (map)
When the backyard Slip 'N Slide isn't making enough of a splash, pack up the family and head to this aqua-palooza.
Valleyfair Amusement Park
Read Reviews1 Valleyfair Dr, Shakopee, MN 55379 (map)
It's the classic Twin Cities fave for kids and those who just want to feel like one again.
Museums and Zoos
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Minnesota Children's Museum
Read Reviews10 W Seventh St, St. Paul, MN 55102 (map)
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Minnesota History Center
Read Reviews345 Kellogg Boulevard W, St Paul, MN 55102 (map)
For older kids interested in a bit of state history, this is a great place to start the learning process.
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