Caponi Art Park

Some 60 acres of nature’s beauty unfold across the rolling hills at this gem of a park in Eagan, just 20 minutes from downtown Minneapolis and even closer to St. Paul. Meander aimlessly without fear of getting lost among intertwined wooded trails, and see how the park blends with 30-plus sculptures seamlessly hidden—it’s as if you’re embarking on an archaeological dig. 

Como Park Zoo and Marjorie McNeely Conservatory

Coming in with a roar is the Como Regional Park, home to Como Park Zoo and Marjorie McNeely Conservatory. From Amur tigers to zebras, Como Park Zoo spans the alphabet with its variety of animals. Guests can learn about and visit their favorite furry, feathered or scaled friends, as well as take in beautiful sights and smells of numerous plant species found in the park’s famous conservatory. For more excitement, Como Regional Park features a massive swimming pool complete with a 25-yard, six-lane lap pool, aquatic zip line, diving platforms and 400-foot lazy river. Other features include hiking and biking trails, a baseball and softball field, Como Lake, picnic area and more.

French Regional Park

Located on Medicine Lake in Plymouth, this park boasts serene natural beauty and plenty of playground equipment for little ones. Outdoor exploration is served up with nature trails and biking trails throughout the park, and an onsite boat rental makes it easy to get out on the water. The celebrity of this park, however, is probably the complex web of a rope climbing area.

Teddy Bear Park

Located near the charming town of Stillwater, this park is perfect for tikes under the age of seven. Peppered with teddy bear statues (talk about the perfect photo op) and unique playground equipment, this park is the perfect place to exert some energy. Kids will love the spider-web-like rope climbing area, and the amphitheater features occasional programs fit for the whole family.