9 Exciting Memorial Day Getaways from Minneapolis with Kids (+ 5 Staycations)
This post featuring the best Memorial Day Weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy (linked below).

Do you consider Memorial Day Weekend the start of summer? We do! While school may not be out quite yet, the extra day off is the perfect excuse for road trips, dragging out the grill, and exploring some of the best weekend getaways near Minneapolis with your family. Not to mention, the usually sunny weather is perfect for getting outside and adventuring along some of the best trails or waterways in the area.
So, kick off those winter blues; let’s explore some of the best vacation spots in Minnesota and Wisconsin with kids this Memorial Day! Everything on this list is within 4.5 hours of Minneapolis. Keep reading to learn about some of my favorite options for Memorial Day Weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids! Plus, if you can’t go far this year, I’ve also included a few of my favorite staycation ideas.
Crosby (Cuyuna Area), MN

I love Crosby! It’s only about 2 hours from Minneapolis, and it is one of the coolest small towns in the state. Long overshadowed by nearby Brainerd and Nisswa, I think Crosby stands on its own as one of the best vacation spots in Minnesota with kids. Not only is it full of great outdoor activities, but the downtown area features excellent dining options and cute shops.
I think Crosby is best for families looking to spend most of the weekend outdoors hiking, biking, or swimming. If you’re looking for fun weekend getaways near Minneapolis for families, keep Crosby on your list! Then, keep reading for my recommendations on things to do and places to eat in Crosby with kids.
Best Summer Things to Do in Crosby with Kids

Here are my favorite things to do in Crosby for families (perfect for a Memorial Day Weekend getaway):
- Rent kayaks, crystal kayaks, or stand-up paddleboards from Cuyuna Outfitters. The area has several beautiful pit mine lakes to explore. They will even arrange the equipment’s drop-off and pick-up.
- Go for a hike in the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area. Just watch for mountain bikes!
- Swim in one of the nearby mine pit lakes. The waters are crystal clear and beautiful!
- Check out the fun specialty foods and grab ice cream from Victual.
- Learn something new together at the Soo Line Depot Museum. Memorial Day Weekend is their opening weekend for the season.
Best Places to Eat in Crosby with Kids

Here are my favorite places to eat in Crosby for families:
- Red Raven for coffee + breakfast (try the breakfast burrito!!).
- North Country Cafe features a good ole’ hometown breakfast
- Rafferty’s Pizza for some of the best pizza in Minnesota!
- Croft Kitchen and Bar has some seriously good pub grub and pizzas. It doesn’t look like much, but this place serves dynamite food!
- Victual has the best lactose-free ice cream in the state!
Places to Stay in Crosby with Kids
- Nature Cabin at Cuyuna Matata
- Cuyuna Range Campground
- Crosby Lofts
- The BirchBox Container
- The Sanctuary
- Check VRBO for more great, family-friendly options
READ NEXT: 11 Exciting Summer Weekend Getaways Near Minneapolis for Families
Duluth, MN

My husband and I both went to college in Duluth. Now, we love going back and exploring the city as a family. I’m a little biased because we lived there for four years, but I think Duluth is one of the best weekend getaways in Minnesota for families. Duluth is just over 2 hours from Minneapolis, which makes it an easy weekend destination (I’ve even done day trips before – though I wouldn’t necessarily recommend that with littles!).
The city has a lot to offer all ages, from outdoor adventures and fun museums to epic lake views. Undoubtedly, it’s an excellent option for families who want a mix of outdoor fun with urban amenities. Keep reading to discover my favorite ways to spend a weekend in Duluth together.
Best Summer Things to Do in Duluth with Kids

Planning Duluth as your top pick for a Memorial Day getaway near Minneapolis with kids? Here’s what to do in Duluth together:
- Hang out in Canal Park! Just walking around, shopping, and watching the big ships pass through the aerial lift bridge is enough to have fun in Duluth. The area along Lake Superior is breathtaking, and there are tons of things to do nearby.
- Great Lakes Aquarium is a must for kids. With tons of hands-on exhibits and aquariums, it will definitely be a hit with all ages.
- Glensheen Mansion offers family-friendly tours of its historic home and gardens. The curated rooms and lush gardens are lovely, but the tour is probably best for older kids and teens.
- Vista Fleet Boat Tours is an excellent option for families who want to get on the water. They provide several fun summer tours, including everything from sightseeing to dining cruises.
- Duluth offers some of the best hiking in the state! Family-friendly trails are available at Chester Park Loop, Lester Park Trail, or Hartley Nature Center.
Best Places to Eat in Duluth with Kids

Here are a few of my favorite places to eat in Duluth with kids:
- Vitta Pizza for great pizza in Canal Park.
- Sir Benedict’s Tavern on the Lake is one of our favorite spots in Duluth. We eat here almost every time we are in town.
- Hungry Hippie Tacos for the fry bread tacos. They have a HUGE summer patio.
- The PortLand Malt Shoppe is *iconic*. They offer old-school window-serve ice cream. They also have yummy sundaes and floats.
Places to Stay in Duluth with Kids
- Pier B Resort Hotel (this is where we usually stay!)
- Enger Lofts Hotel
- Edgewater Hotel and Waterpark (has an indoor waterpark)
- Canal Park Lodge
- Holiday Inn & Suites Duluth-Downtown, an IHG Hotel
Grand Marais, MN

Grand Marais is hands down one of my favorite destinations in Minnesota! It’s perfect for every season – and Memorial Day Weekend is no different! Use the extra day off to head up north to enjoy beautiful Lake Superior views, epic hikes, and more together. Grand Marais is about 4.5 hours from Minneapolis.
It’s the perfect destination for families looking for a quiet, relaxing trip in a tranquil wilderness together. In late May, Grand Marais is still on the cooler side, but the town starts to come alive again with the return of the summer season. Keep reading to learn how to enjoy one of the best Memorial Day Weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids!
READ NEXT: A Family Guide to the 8 State Parks on the North Shore of Minnesota
Best Summer Things to Do in Grand Marais with Kids

Here are some of my favorite things to do in Grand Marais this summer with kids:
- Throw rocks in Lake Superior from the Grand Marais Harbor. Afterward, walk out to the Grand Marais Lighthouse or along the Artists’ Point trails.
- Take a hike together. Some of our favorites include Cascade River State Park, Oberg Mountain, and Judge C.R. Magney State Park. If you’re up for a bit of a drive, Grand Portage State Park is definitely worth the drive!
- Visit Sugarloaf Cove Nature Center in Schroeder. It has a nice trail that leads to a beach and a cozy indoor exhibit.
- Learn something new together at the small museum and reconstructed fur trade village at Grand Portage National Monument. There are also several hiking trails here.
- Check out the Cook County History Museum. Located in the heart of Grand Marais, it’s a great place to learn about this former lightkeeper’s residence.
Best Places to Eat in Grand Marais with Kids

Here are some of our favorite spots to eat in Grand Marais. All great options to refuel while you explore the area on one of the best Memorial Day Weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids:
- World’s Best Donuts is truly the world’s best!
- Java Moose Espresso Cafe is the perfect spot to try a Maple Latte (it’s made with locally sourced maple syrup!).
- Voyageur Brewing Company is a must every time we are in town!
- The Fisherman’s Daughter is one of the most underrated spots in town. Everything on their menu is delicious!
- Angry Trout Cafe is best for a nice dinner with unparalleled lake views.
- Superior Creamery also offers several yummy ice cream flavors and a few great food items (like sandwiches, rice bowls, salads, etc.).
Places to Stay in Grand Marais with Kids
- Bluefin Bay on Lake Superior
- Thomsonite Inn
- Basecamp Bungalows
- East Bay Suites
- Gunflint Lodge & Outfitters
- Skyport Lodge & Raven Rock Grill
- Best Western Plus Superior Inn
- Timber & Tide Cabins
Chisago Lakes, MN

If you’re looking for fun family vacation spots in Minnesota, Chisago Lakes is one of my favorites! Only about 1 hour from Minneapolis, this area comprises five communities along Highway 8, including Chisago City, Lindström, and Taylors Falls.
Chisago Lakes is one of my favorite weekend getaways in Minnesota for families. It is best known for its charming downtowns, fantastic hiking trails (including two state parks), and friendly locals. Each community boasts its own unique things to do, restaurants, and places to stay. It’s an ideal spot for families seeking a quick weekend away with tons of outdoor adventures and other low-key, kid-friendly activities. In fact, you can find everything from scenic canoe trips and kid-friendly hiking treks to boutique shopping when you explore Chisago Lakes.
Best Summer Things to Do in Chisago Lakes with Kids

Here are some of my favorite summer things to do from Chisago City to Taylors Falls for one of the best Memorial Day Weekend getaways from Minneapolis with kids:
- Check out the Swedish coffee pot water tower in downtown Lindström.
- Explore the many unique art installations at Franconia Sculpture Park. Some of the pieces are even interactive! The park is free for all.
- Challenge one another to a round at Adventure Falls Mini Golf in Taylors Falls. Afterward, have a malt or a burger basket at Taylors Falls Drive In.
- Take a tour aboard a beautiful paddlewheel boat along the river with Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours. The narrated tour offers fascinating insights into the area’s geology and history.
- Take a hike at Wild River State Park or Interstate State Park. Both offer great trails, including some accessible ones. Allemansrätt Park is another excellent option.
- Get on the water with a One-Way Trip to Osceola from Taylors Falls Canoe & Kayak Rental. Pack a cooler; there are many great spots to stop for a swim and a picnic along the way.
Best Places to Eat in Chisago Lakes with Kids

Wondering where to eat in Chisago Lakes with kids? Here are some of our favorite eateries for breakfast, lunch, and dinner (and, of course, ice cream!):
- Northwoods Roasterie (Lindström) is one of the best spots for coffee and pastries in Chisago Lakes.
- The Lindström Bakery (Lindström) is an iconic spot for donuts. They’ve even been voted best in the state!
- Gustaf’s On Main Eatery (Lindström) serves a fantastic all-day breakfast, plus sandwiches, wraps, and other lunch items. And, a great selection of ice cream!
- The Drive In Restaurant (Taylors Falls) has been a family favorite for generations! They offer a classic car shop experience with top-notch burgers and malts. It’s one of our go-to summer spots!
- The Northern Lake Tavern & Grill is a cabin-style eatery with waterfront views.
Places to Stay in Chisago Lakes with Kids
- Wildwood RV Park & Campground
- Both Wild River State Park and Interstate State Park offer camping, too.
- Nordic Harbor Inn
- Wannigan Point Cabins
- Check Vrbo for more family-friendly options in Chisago Lakes
Eau Claire, WI

About 90 minutes from Minneapolis, Eau Claire, Wisconsin, is chock full of family-friendly things to do in the summer. Eau Claire has burst onto the travel scene over the past few years – and it’s easy to see why! From farms and nature centers to canoeing and shopping, there is no shortage of exciting activities across the city for all ages and interests.
In fact, Eau Claire’s booming music and foodie scene make it the perfect spot for families with teens. Or, those looking for unique concert opportunities, theater performances, and more. If you’ve got littles in tow, don’t worry; there is plenty for them to do in Eau Claire, too. Keep reading to discover everything that makes Eau Claire one of the best weekend getaways near Minneapolis for families!
Best Summer Things to Do in Eau Claire with Kids

Planning a weekend getaway to Eau Claire with kids this Memorial Day Weekend? Here’s what to do once you get there:
- Enjoy the Eau Claire Sculpture Tour. With 70+ unique installations, it is one of the most extensive self-guided sculpture tours in the United States.
- Enjoy the river views and a beautiful stroll along Phoenix Park. On Saturday mornings, the summer farmer’s market takes place here!
- Splash and play in River Prairie Park. The natural stream splash area and playground are ideal for toddlers and young kids.
- Take a hike and learn something new together at Beaver Creek Reserve.
- Traveling with littles? Learn something new together at the Children’s Museum of Eau Claire.
Best Places to Eat in Eau Claire with Kids

Looking for family-friendly places to eat while exploring one of the best Memorial Day getaways near Minneapolis with kids? Here’s where to eat in Eau Claire with kids:
- The Nucleus is lovely for breakfast or brunch.
- Acoustic Cafe offers an excellent downtown lunch spot.
- 44 North has an extensive menu (burgers, tacos, etc.) and a fun on-site arcade.
- Stella Blues is a must for a nice dinner out together, with a menu filled with Cajun favorites (they have a kids’ menu).
- Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse is ideal for treating your family to a celebratory meal. The menu features pasta, steak, and more. They also offer breakfast and lunch.
- Ramone’s Ice Cream Parlor is located near Phoenix Park and offers a variety of fantastic flavors that everyone will love.
Places to Stay in Eau Claire with Kids
- Staybridge Suites Eau Claire – Altoona, an IHG Hotel (we’ve stayed here; I love the large suites, pool, and outdoor patio)
- Metropolis Resort & Conference Center
- The Lismore Hotel Eau Claire – a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
- The Oxbow Hotel
- Holiday Inn Eau Claire South I-94, an IHG Hotel
Appleton, WI

Kick off summer with a Memorial Day Weekend getaway to Appleton! Less than 4.5 hours from Minneapolis, this lively Fox Cities destination boasts outdoor adventure, family-friendly attractions, and small-town charm.
Appleton’s bustling downtown is perfect for families with kids of all ages, offering unique shops, live music, and artsy finds. Of course, the engaging museums and nature spots only add to the exciting places to explore together. Add in local eateries and a vibrant farmers’ market, and you’ve got the perfect mix of family fun. Appleton has become a must-visit destination in Wisconsin for families-and it’s easy to see why! Keep reading to discover why it’s one of the top Memorial Day getaways near Minneapolis with kids.
Best Summer Things to Do in Appleton with Kids

Add these fun things to do to your family visit to Appleton:
- Hike at Bubolz Nature Preserve or High Cliff State Park for beautiful, kid-friendly trails.
- Shop + explore downtown Appleton. Downtown Neenah is super cute, too!
- Check out the weekend farmer’s market in downtown Appleton or Neenah (they both have one!).
- Learn something new together at museums like the History Museum at the Castle, the Trout Museum of Art, the Atlas Science Center, and the Building for Kids Children’s Museum.
- Explore the beautiful collections at Bergstrom Mahler Museum of Glass.
Best Places to Eat in the Fox Cities with Kids

Here’s where to eat when you visit Appleton with kids:
- Tempest Coffee Collective for breakfast + coffee.
- SAP for a hearty breakfast.
- Waverly Beach Bar & Grille for lakeside pub grub (with kids’ menu).
- Tipsy Taco & Tequila Bar for dynamite cocktails and tacos (with a kids’ menu).
- Ellinor, for one of the best dinners in Appleton!
- Supper club fare at its best can be found at Mark’s East Side.
- Legendairy Cookies’ N Creamery for ice cream sandwiches.
Places to Stay in the Fox Cities with Kids
- Hilton Appleton Paper Valley (downtown Appleton) – this is where we stayed!
- CopperLeaf Boutique Hotel (downtown Appleton)
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Appleton (Appleton)
- Holiday Inn Appleton (Appleton)
- DoubleTree by Hilton Neenah (downtown Neenah)
La Crosse, WI

Need more ideas for Memorial Day Weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids? La Crosse is a fantastic city in Wisconsin to explore together. We love La Crosse for its charming downtown, epic hiking, and beautiful views of the Mississippi River.
Just under 2.5 hours from Minneapolis, La Crosse is undoubtedly one of the best Wisconsin weekend getaways for families (in fact, it’s just across the river from Winona). I think it’s perfect for families looking for a mix of excellent outdoor adventures and city amenities, such as great restaurants and museums. There are so many fun things to do in La Crosse with kids of all ages. Whether you want to embark on scenic hikes, go fishing, or browse through fun shops, La Crosse has what you’re looking for!
Best Summer Things to Do in La Crosse with Kids
Ready to spend Memorial Day Weekend in La Crosse with kids? Here’s what to do together:
- Best hiking spot in La Crosse? Definitely Grandad Bluff Park! You can also try Mathy Tract-Mississippi Valley Conservancy or Perrot State Park.
- Goose Island County Park (just 3 miles south of downtown) offers beautiful hiking trails and a public beach.
- Rivoli Theater & Pizzeria offers a fun movie theater experience and yummy pizza. You can’t go wrong with such a fun combination!
- If you and your kids love books, check out Pearl Street Books, a charming independent bookstore in downtown La Crosse.
- Get on the water with a tour from La Crosse Queen Cruises. They even offer kid-friendly pizza cruises!
Best Places to Eat in La Crosse with Kids
Wondering where to eat in La Crosse with kids? Here are some of our favorite eats in the city:
- Digger’s Sting Restaurant is a must for the Wisconsin Super Club experience, including a dynamite old fashioned!
- Rudy’s Drive-In Restaurant features fun, roller-skating carhops, American bites, and, of course, their iconic rootbeer floats!
- Pearl Ice Cream Parlor is a can’t-miss spot for indulging in a bit of ice cream in downtown La Crosse.
- Fayze’s Restaurant and Bakery has an old-school diner vibe and an excellent breakfast menu. Want something to go? Select from their homemade European breads and pastries!
Places to Stay in La Crosse with Kids
- GrandStay Hotel & Suites La Crosse
- Courtyard La Crosse Downtown/Mississippi Riverfront
- Holiday Inn & Suites La Crosse - Downtown
- Radisson Hotel La Crosse
- Fairfield Inn & Suites La Crosse Downtown
- Hampton Inn & Suites La Crosse Downtown
Fargo, ND

Under 4 hours from Minneapolis, Fargo is a family getaway that surprised us in the best ways! This Midwest gem combines quirky art, unique attractions, and classic family fun. We packed our recent family visit to Fargo with great food, colorful murals, and fun museums. The city truly delivered!
Kids will love exploring the many hands-on exhibits and activities in Fargo. Meanwhile, parents will appreciate Fargo’s growing and diverse food scene. And because the city is so compact, it’s easy to mix outdoor time with downtown exploring. For us, Fargo struck that perfect balance of adventure and relaxation (exactly what we look for in an early summer trip from Minnesota!).
Best Summer Things to Do in Fargo with Kids

Here are just a few of the best summer things to do in Fargo with kids (perfect for fun Memorial Day Weekend getaways near Minneapolis!):
- Learn about planes and local air heroes at the Fargo Air Museum.
- Meander downtown Fargo in search of its many colorful murals. Be sure to stop in a few local shops, too!
- Meet the fish and other ocean creatures at the Oceanarium at MSUM (Saturdays only, from 12 pm – 4 pm).
- Spend the afternoon exploring Lindenwood Park. You’ll find riverside trails, a playground, and more.
- Stop and taste a few things at The Original Moorhead Dairy Queen
Best Places to Eat in Fargo with Kids

Grab a meal or two at one of our favorite spots in Fargo. Here’s where to start:
- The best coffee in downtown Fargo is at Twenty Below Coffee Co.
- Have an excellent lunch or dinner at Beer & Fish Company, right in downtown Fargo.
- Grab pizza at Rhombus Guys (I recommend the taco pizza!).
- Enjoy a homey breakfast at Marge’s Diner. It’s right downtown, and they offer a kids’ menu.
- Boppa’s Bagels for some of the best bagels around!
Best Places to Stay in Fargo with Kids
Wondering about the best hotels in Fargo for families? I recommend:
Lyon County, IA

Lyon County, Iowa, is a hidden gem for a Memorial Day Weekend getaway! Just under four hours from Minneapolis, this northwest Iowa destination offers small-town charm alongside pastoral views. The region’s friendly, welcoming vibe makes it easy to relax and enjoy a slower pace while still finding plenty of adventures to keep everyone entertained!
The food scene in Lyon County is surprisingly delightful for families. You can enjoy everything from vineyard-side woodfire pizzas to farm-fresh ice cream. With hands-on stops, scenic walks, and plenty of opportunities to connect with nature, Lyon County offers an unforgettable Midwest getaway. It’s the perfect spot to make family memories this Memorial Day Weekend.
Best Summer Things to Do in Lyon County with Kids

Here are my can’t-miss recommendations for visiting Lyon County, Iowa, with kids:
- Explore the many charming cities of Lyon County, including Alvord, Larchwood, and Rock Rapids (this was the cutest one in my opinion!).
- Learn about local wildlife and ecosystems at the Lyon County Nature Center. It’s a great place for kids to play, too!
- Calico Skies Vineyard & Winery is a must-stop on your visit to Lyon County. They have games and plenty of snacks to keep kids happy.
- One of the quirkiest things to do in Lyon County is to visit the exact point where Iowa, South Dakota, and Minnesota all meet!
Best Places to Eat in Lyon County with Kids

When you visit Lyon County, Iowa, here’s where to eat:
- Blind Butcher Brewing Company for apps, regular food truck appearances, and an upstairs arcade (not to mention, plenty of board games!).
- CHUDS Pub and Grub for great pub fare, a kids’ menu, and free play games.
- Stensland Family Farms offers a small self-serve farm market with frozen pizza and fresh ice cream.
- Guacamole Restaurant for phenomenal Mexican food and flavors.
- The Garage for everything from wings and tacos to burgers and more.
Best Places to Stay in Lyon County with Kids
Spend the weekend in Lyon County. Here’s where to stay:
- The Bradley Inn of Larchwood (where we stayed; it’s worth the trip alone!)
5 Fun Staycation Ideas for Memorial Day in Minneapolis with Kids

Can’t leave the Twin Cities on any of these Memorial Day getaways near Minneapolis with kids this year? Some great staycation ideas will still keep you and your kids having fun over the long weekend. Here’s what I’d recommend if you need to stick close to home this holiday weekend.
Plan One of These Fun Outings with Kids!
- Take a Day Trip! If you can’t be gone the whole weekend, taking a quick day trip is a great way to take a mini-vacation and spend some quality time with your kids. Here are some day trips from Minneapolis that I love with kids: Stillwater, Northfield, Excelsior, Hastings, and Red Wing.
- Explore a nearby Nature Center. Nature Centers are fantastic places to explore with kids. They often offer unique, kid-friendly activities (like backpacks with activities to borrow, playgrounds, etc.) and trails. Here are some of our favorites: Wood Lake Nature Center in Richfield, Tamarack Nature Center in White Bear Lake, and Richardson Nature Center in Bloomington.
- Play at the Mall of America Together. Need an indoor activity for the weekend? The Mall of America is FILLED with them, from Nickelodeon Universe and the SEALIFE Aquarium to the Museum of Illusions and two mini golf courses (to name a few of our favorites).
- Embark on a Canoe Trip Together! I already included this in the Chisago Lakes section, but you can also make it a day trip from Minneapolis. In fact, that’s what we did last Memorial Day Weekend! Book the One-Way Trip to Osceola with Taylors Falls Canoe & Kayak Rental. Pack a cooler; there are tons of beaches, sandbars, and islands to stop at along the way.
- Go on a Picnic! Grab a few pizzas from Broders’ Cucina Italiana and picnic at Lake Harriet. There is a HUGE playground for kids. Afterward, you can also walk around the lake in search of the elf house (south end of the lake). The watercraft rentals and on-site restaurant should also be open for Memorial Day Weekend.
Keep Exploring the Midwest with Your Kids!

The extra day off for Memorial Day Weekend is a great reason to plan one of the best getaways near Minneapolis with kids! From fun Minnesota vacation spots to some of the best Wisconsin weekend getaways for families, these six destinations are perfect for entertaining family weekend getaways near Minneapolis. And, of course, if you can’t go far this year, the staycation ideas will still keep you making memories and having fun this Memorial Day Weekend!
Unless otherwise noted, all images within this article were taken by and belong to the blog’s author, Antonia Grant. A reminder that this post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy for more information.




