6 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.

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.

4 Fun Memorial Day Getaways in Minnesota with Kids

Some of the best Memorial Day Weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids are still in Minnesota! Whether you want epic views of Lake Superior, charming downtowns, or fun outdoor adventures to kick off summer, these four Minnesota destinations for families have you covered. Keep reading to learn more about some of my favorite Minnesota weekend getaways for families – all within 4.5 hours of Minneapolis. 

READ NEXT: 11 Exciting Summer Weekend Getaways Near Minneapolis for Families

Crosby (Cuyuna Area)

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 mountain bikes from Cykel Bike Shop (Ironton) and explore the many mountain biking trails in the area. Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area is a great option!
• 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 a drop-off and pick-up of the equipment.  
• 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. 
• Meet the Serpent in Crosby – you can’t miss it near Serpent Lake!
• Play at the pirate-themed playground near Serpent Lake together.
• Learn something new together at Soo Line Depot Museum. Memorial Day Weekend is their opening weekend for the season.
• Crow Wing State Park is about 30 minutes from Crosby and offers fantastic hiking with kids.

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
• Iron Range Eatery for burgers and other delicious appetizers and entrees. 
• 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!
• Burritos California offers top-notch burritos, tacos, and more. Best paired with drinks from Cuyuna Brewing Company.
• Cuyuna Brewing Company for a tap beer or cider. They don’t serve food, but you can bring in food from one of the nearby eateries.
• Victual has the best lactose-free ice cream in the state!
• MacDaddy’s Donut Garage in nearby Ironton for your morning donuts!

Duluth

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. Firstly, 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!). Then, 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 in close proximity to one another.
• 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.
• If you have toddlers or young children, add Lake Superior Zoo or the Duluth Children’s Museum to your itinerary. 
• Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center is a free museum in Canal Park. It’s a great place to learn more about the large ships that pass through the port and local maritime history. If your kids want to get ON a historic vessel, add the William A. Irvin Museum to your itinerary, too.
• 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. 
• Nearby state parks include Jay Cooke State Park and Gooseberry Falls State Park. Neither are in the city, but both are worth a quick trek for a day of hiking together. 

Best Places to Eat in Duluth with Kids

Here are a few of my favorite places to eat in Duluth with kids:

• Uncle Loui’s Cafe is a must for at least one breakfast. Firstly, because it’s a bit nostalgic for people like us who went to college there, but also because they have HUGE pancakes (get a banana pancake), omelets, and other delicious breakfast fare. Weekends get really busy, but I promise it’s worth the wait!
• Canal Park Brewing Company is one of our favorite stops for apps and drinks. It’s right in Canal Park and has a fun summer patio with lake views. They have a kids’ menu, too.
• Vitta Pizza is also in Canal Park. Its menu features wood-fired, Neapolitan-style pizzas—seriously good! It also has a nice summer patio and, of course, a kids’ menu.
• Sir Benedicts Tavern on the Lake is one of our favorite spots in Duluth. It’s outside the bustle of Canal Park but still a great downtown location. It is a classic English-style pub that offers exceptional sandwiches. In the summer, they have a patio and regular live music. They also have a kids’ menu, too.
• Hungry Hippie Tacos is a sister restaurant to the one in Grand Marais. It is located in the trendy Lincoln Park Craft District. I go for the iconic fry bread tacos – and you should, too. 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. 

Grand Marais

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:

• If you have time for a roadside stop on the way up the North Shore, consider exploring Pink Beach, AKA Iona’s Beach Scientific and Natural Area (north of Two Harbors). or Black Beach in Silver Bay.
• 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! 
• Take in a sunset together at the Grand Marais Lighthouse.
• Meander the charming downtown area and peek into a few shops.
• 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.
• Take a thrilling ride down Lutsen Mountains’ Eagle Mountain on an alpine slide! You can also ride the gondola during the summer.
• Visit Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center, located on the Gunflint Trail. It’s a lovely nature center with easy nearby trails.
• 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.

READ NEXT: Family Guide to 14+ Exciting Summer Things to Do in Grand Marais with Kids

Best Places to Eat in Grand Marais for Breakfast with Kids

Wondering where to grab a coffee or eat breakfast in Grand Marais with kids? Here are some of our favorite summer eats:

• World’s Best Donuts is truly the world’s best! It’s a great stop for breakfast. They have drip coffee, too. There are some benches nearby, but I recommend taking them down to the harbor beach.
• Java Moose Espresso Cafe is the perfect spot to try a Maple Latte (it’s made with locally sourced maple syrup!). They have a small bakery case for breakfast and several lunch sandwiches. Indoor seating can be tight, but there is some outdoor seating on the patio and across the street at the harbor beach. If you’re looking to relax, there are games and puzzles near the bathroom for small kids. 
• Cascade Restaurant is one of our go-to spots for a full breakfast, but they also offer a great lunch and dinner menu. They often have live music, too, and they have a kids’ menu.

Best Places to Eat in Grand Marais for Lunch and Dinner with Kids

Here are some of our favorite spots for lunch and dinner 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:

• Voyageur Brewing Company is a must every time we are in town! Not only do they have a tremendous house-made beer, but they have a great menu filled with tasty small plates and bites. The Reuben eggrolls are my favorite!
• ​​The Fisherman’s Daughter is one of the most underrated spots in town. Their menu is filled with delicious, fresh-caught fish and incredible fries. Try the specials and the tacos, too! Plus, their salmon chowder is one of my husband’s favorite chowders ever. Seating inside is cozy, but they have a balcony and patio when the weather is nice.
• ​​My Sister’s Place is perfect for pizza and other American-style fare. My daughter loves their lemon arugula pizza. Their handhelds and burgers are excellent, too! They also have a kids’ menu and can accommodate large groups.
• Hungry Hippie Tacos offers iconic fry bread tacos served with house-made ingredients and sauces. 
• Angry Trout Cafe is best for a nice dinner with unparalleled lake views. Their back balcony is one of the best spots to catch a sunset over a nice meal together. The menu focuses on local, seasonal produce and sustainably caught fish.
• Superior Creamery also offers several yummy ice cream flavors and a few great food items (like sandwiches, rice bowls, salads, etc.).
• Poplar Haus Restaurant and Trail Center At Poplar Lake are your best bet for post-hike lunches or dinners if you are headed up the Gunflint Trail.

Chisago Lakes

If you’re looking for fun family vacation spots in Minnesota near Minneapolis, Chisago Lakes is one of my favorites! Only about one hour from Minneapolis, this area is comprised of five communities along Highway 8, including Chisago City, Lindström, and Taylors Falls. Chisago Lakes is one of the best 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. This is also the best spot for shopping in Chisago Lakes.
• Explore the many unique art installations at Franconia Sculpture Park. Some of the pieces are even interactive! And the park is free for all. We love roaming around to see what we can find – and, of course, picking a favorite or two along the way.
• 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 provides fascinating information about the geology and history of the area.
• Grab some cheese for the road from Eichtens Cheese. This third-generation family farm has been making some of Minnesota’s best cheeses since 1976, including European-style goudas and Tilsit.
• 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 for a beautiful hike or stroll in nature.
• There are two wineries in the area too. Both offer a great selection of wine and food. Wild Mountain Winery tends to be slightly little more rustic, while Winehaven Winery is a bit more chic. Both are kid-friendly.
• 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!
• Coffee Talk (Taylors Falls) is another excellent spot for coffee. Go early to get a morning bun! Once they run out of food, they are out for the day.
• Gustaf’s On Main Eatery (Lindström) serves a fantastic all-day breakfast, plus they offer sandwiches, wraps, and other items for lunch. Not to mention, they have 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!
• Schoony’s Malt Shop & Pizzeria (Taylors Falls) is a fantastic spot for pizza, malts, and ice cream with kids. They also have a ton of fun games, and unique decor that will delight kids of all ages.
• The Stone Inn (Chisago City) offers a huge indoor dining room and an extensive menu, including a kids’ menu. The menu features appetizers, salads, burgers, broasted chicken, and numerous other fantastic options. 
• The Northern Lake Tavern & Grill is a cabin-style eatery with waterfront views. The menu features tons of options, including appetizers, wraps and tacos, flatbread pizzas, and much more. They also have a kids’ menu.
• Uncommon Loon Brewing Company (Chisago City) is a fun, family-friendly brewery with a huge outdoor patio. They have some packaged snacks, but no prepared food.
• Anderson’s Ice Cream Shoppe (Lindström) is ideal for an afternoon pick-me-up or treating your kids to a tasty scoop or two.

2 Fun Memorial Day Getaways in Wisconsin with Kids

Want to get out of Minnesota? There are two Wisconsin weekend getaways for families that are perfect for Memorial Day Weekend. And both are within just a few hours of Minneapolis. Here are two more of my favorite ideas for Memorial Day Weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids.

Eau Claire

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 makes 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 a family-friendly performance at the Pablo Center at the Confluence. The line-up is excellent, and there is a free art museum inside.
• Enjoy the river views and a beautiful stroll along Phoenix Park. On Saturday mornings, the summer farmer’s market takes place here!
• Play at the massive playground in Carson Park. Plus, have kids keep their eyes out for the Hank Aaron statue. He spent part of his early career in Eau Claire!
• 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.
• Explore Big Falls County Park or the Chippewa River State Trail. Both offer fantastic hiking trails.
• Rent a canoe or kayak to paddle down the Chippewa River.
• Traveling with littles? Learn something new together at the Children’s Museum of Eau Claire.
• Engage in local history at one of these museums: Chippewa Valley Museum or Wisconsin Logging Museum. 
• Play together at Action City! Challenge one another to mini-golf, bumper cars, and arcade games. There is also an on-site waterpark here for even more fun.

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 perfect for breakfast or brunch, with delicious options like crepes and omelets!
• Acoustic Cafe offers an excellent location for lunch downtown, featuring top-notch hoagies and ice cream.
• Eau Claire Cheese & Deli features a dynamite list of sandwiches! There is a picnic table outside, but otherwise, plan to take your sandwiches to go for a picnic.
• 44 North has an extensive menu (burgers, tacos, and more) and a fun on-site arcade.
• Za51, located near River Prairie Park, is a great pizza place.
• 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.
• Mona Lisa’s is a great spot in downtown Eau Claire for contemporary Italian and Mediterranean food.
• Valley Burger Company for the best burgers in Eau Claire!
• 3rd & Vine is a lovely option for craft beer and charcuterie-style eats.
• Olson’s Ice Cream has been making some of the best ice cream in the Chippewa Valley for decades. 
• Ramone’s Ice Cream Parlor is located near Phoenix Park and offers a variety of fantastic flavors that everyone will love.

La Crosse

Need more ideas for Memorial Day Weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids? La Crosse is a fantastic city in Wisconsin to explore together. And, it’s the last (but not least) city on my list! We love La Crosse for its charming downtown, epic hiking, and beautiful Mississippi River views. 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 like 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! Here, you can soak in breathtaking views of downtown La Crosse and the surrounding area. On clear days, you can even see Minnesota and Iowa!
• Want more places to hike? Try Mathy Tract—Mississippi Valley Conservancy or nearby Perrot State Park, both of which offer incredible views.
• 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!
• Those with toddlers and young kids can’t miss exploring the Children’s Museum of La Crosse.
• Nature lovers can’t miss the International Owl Center in nearby Houston, Minnesota.
• If you and your kids love books, check out Pearl Street Books, a charming independent bookstore in downtown La Crosse.
• The Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe is a great spot for an educational stop, featuring guided tours and programs for all ages.
• 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 fashion! 
• Rudy’s Drive-In Restaurant features fun, roller skating carhops, American bites, and, of course, their iconic rootbeer floats!
• Buzzard Billy’s for yummy Cajun-Creole eats.
• Taqueria Pata Azul is the best spot in town for some tasty tacos.
• 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!

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? There are some great staycation ideas that 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 easily make this a day trip from Minneapolis, too. 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 on your journey. 

• 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. 

READ NEXT: A Family Guide to 6 Exciting State Parks near Minneapolis with Kids

Keep Exploring Minnesota and Wisconsin with 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.