Your Summer Adventure Wishlist

From the immersive science exhibits at the Science Museum of Minnesota to the stunning window exhibits at the Minnesota Museum of American Art and the hands-on natural experiences at the Bell Museum, there’s something for every interest.

Located across the street from the Xcel Energy Center, the Science Museum of Minnesota invites visitors to curate their own journey of discovery with four STEM-focused themes to choose from: water, air and space, dinosaurs, or backyard science. Be sure to check out the Omnitheater while you’re there, too. Every Friday at 7 p.m., families can watch films in a way they have never seen before, such as “Moana,” “Men in Black,” and “Night at the Museum.”

Nearby, the Minnesota Children’s Museum supplies three floors of fun and entertainment. Based on Disney Pixar’s film “Inside Out,” the “Emotions at Play” exhibit runs through Sept. 4 and features an emotion controls panel, emotion mirrors, memory sphere, dream productions, the train of thought, and emotion blocks. Outside the exhibit, there’s a mud zone and summer camps offered throughout the summer months.

The Minnesota Museum of American Art is a hidden gem in the heart of Saint Paul, currently under construction but offering stunning rotating window exhibits at the historic Pioneer Endicott building.

History buffs should check out Fort Snelling, a former fortification and National Historic Landmark that combines history, nature, and exploration. Offering a different kind of history, the Bell Museum is Minnesota’s official natural history museum and planetarium allowing you to explore the origins of the universe and the diversity of life on earth featuring their world famous wildlife dioramas.

Beyond museums, Saint Paul has many ways to reconnect with nature. Enjoy an animal-inspired adventure at the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory—for free! Throughout the park, guests have a chance to learn about the animals through interactive activities, such as the giraffe feeding station, zookeeper talk, and gorilla program. The SPIRE Sparky Show is a must-see, as Sparky the sea lion and other animals interact with one another and perform dazzling tricks at 11:30 a.m. daily. Aside from the zoo, the conservatory is a plant lover’s paradise, with 150 tropical palm and cycad species on full display.

Summer fun at the Minnesota Zoo is an unforgettable experience that combines wildlife, education, and entertainment. This expansive zoo is home to a wide variety of animals from around the world, offering visitors the chance to observe and learn about different species up close. From playful primates to majestic big cats, the zoo’s exhibits provide endless awe and wonder. Additionally, the zoo offers interactive experiences such as feeding giraffes or attending educational shows, making it a perfect destination for families and animal enthusiasts alike. With beautiful outdoor spaces, picnic areas, and a splash pad—plus the soon-to-be-open Tree Top Trail—the Minnesota Zoo ensures a day filled with laughter, learning, and summer memories.

Summer in Saint Paul is a season bursting with entertainment and excitement. From live music and performing arts to sports, the city offers myriad ways to keep residents and visitors entertained.

The Xcel Energy Center and U.S. Bank Stadium will bring big names to town in the coming weeks, including Ed Sheeran, Thomas Rhett, and Madonna. More intimate shows are also abound at places like Palace Theatre, the Turf Club, kj's hideaway and Papa Legba Lounge as well as outdoor concerts at Lowertown Sounds, Bands on the Boulevard and Groovin' in the Garden.

Wanna relax? Outdoor movie screenings under the stars provide a cozy and nostalgic experience on Friday nights.

But thespians fear not—Saint Paul also has a plethora of theaters to check out. Throughout the summer, the Ordway will present two free streamed events that celebrate cultural diversity within the community. Plus, places like History Theatre, Theater Mu with performances born from the heart of the Asian American experience, and Laugh Camp Comedy Club feature a variety of shows throughout the year.

And nothing says summer in Minnesota like a baseball game under the stars. Take the whole family to watch the St. Paul Saints at CHS Field, where fun is the focus for this minor league team. If soccer is more your speed, cheer on Minnesota United FC at Allianz Field, which holds up to 19,600 fans and brings electric energy to the sport.

What could be more thrilling than floating your way down the Mississippi River by kayak?! Paddle Bridge offers guided kayaking tours which wind you through the river gorge into Downtown's Harriet Island, offering stunning views, bird watching and more.

But your summer adventure wishlist isn’t complete without a stop at Mall of America—the largest mall in the country. Here, there’s something for everyone, with hundreds of stores and restaurants, plus a Nickelodeon Universe theme park, a full-service cinema, and the SEA LIFE aquarium. Families will also love the Crayola Experience and the FlyOver America simulator, plus endless eateries and rest stops—err, shops—along the way.

For those looking for an outdoor amusement, head to Valleyfair in Shakopee. With more than 75 rides and attractions, Valleyfair offers fun for the whole family. Teenagers love the rollercoasters and gut-dropping power towers, while little ones can enjoy Planet Snoopy. On a warm summer day, pack a swimsuit for Soak City—Valleyfair’s on-site waterpark—which features drop slides, a lazy river, a kiddy pool, and more.