The Best Hotels in Minneapolis with Kids (A Local Mom’s Top Picks!)

This post, featuring my top picks for the best hotels in Minneapolis with kids, may contain affiliate links + hosted stays-all thoughts and opinions about the stays are my own. For more, please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy (linked below).

Planning a weekend getaway in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with kids? You're in for a treat! This area is packed with exciting things to do and places to eat. As a local family who loves to explore our own backyard, we've rounded up our favorite kid-friendly places to stay in Minneapolis to help you plan your own trip-and yes, we've personally stayed at many of them! Whether it's a splash-worthy pool, cozy on-site dining, or just being steps away from top attractions, we always look for hotels that make traveling with our young daughter fun and stress-free. 

Each of these Minneapolis properties checks the boxes for comfort, location, and kid-friendly amenities. The first part of the list includes properties we've actually stayed at together. Then, to make this list even more comprehensive for you, we've added a few extra picks that come highly recommended by fellow travel families and trusted sources. This way, you know you've found the best hotels with kids in Minneapolis and Saint Paul for your upcoming family trip. If you’re wondering where to stay in Minneapolis with kids (or nearby), you're in the right place. Keep reading to plan your Minneapolis family getaway!

The Royal Sonesta Minneapolis Downtown, Minneapolis

The Royal Sonesta Minneapolis Downtown is best for families who want to be in the heart of downtown Minneapolis! It is a fantastic choice for a weekend getaway in Minneapolis with kids (especially if you’re traveling for a theater production or sporting event). We recently enjoyed a mommy-and-me staycation here, and it was pure magic from check-in to checkout. It is undoubtedly one of the best hotel stays we’ve had in Minneapolis with kids.

The rooms are modern and spacious, perfect for relaxing after a day of downtown adventures. The location couldn't be better-you're steps from top theaters, restaurants, sports stadiums, and premier downtown shopping. During our visit, we kicked off our stay with dinner at the on-site restaurant, Wood + Paddle. My daughter tried her first Italian soda here! Afterward, we walked to The Orpheum to catch a show. The theater is just steps away from the hotel!

With its stylish comfort, friendly staff, and unbeatable location, The Royal Sonesta is ideal for families. Finally, they also offer a Fitness Center, on-site (paid) parking, and family-friendly packages to get you exploring the area in no time! With so much to offer, no wonder it’s one of the best hotels in Minneapolis with kids.

Snapshot of Family Amenities at The Royal Sonesta Minneapolis Downtown

Here's a quick rundown of all the family amenities you can expect at The Royal Sonesta Minneapolis Downtown:

• Fantastic downtown Minneapolis location (steps away from theaters, restaurants, sports stadiums, and more)
• On-site dining, breakfast through dinner (Wood + Paddle Restaurant)
• Rooms + suites
• Interconnecting rooms available 
• Fitness Center
• Overnight (paid) parking is available 
• Family-friendly packages available 

READ NEXT: My Favorite Rooftops + Patios in the Twin Cities with Kids

Hotel Ivy, Minneapolis

If you’re wondering where to stay in Minneapolis with kids and want something that feels both luxurious and family-friendly, Hotel Ivy is a standout. This iconic downtown landmark offers historic charm alongside modern comfort. It's one of the best downtown Minneapolis hotels for families looking for a refined yet relaxed experience.

During our recent stay, we loved how easy it was to explore Minneapolis together. The hotel connects to the Minneapolis Skyway system, which makes holiday and winter visits warm and simple. The rooms are elegant, with thoughtful touches, but still comfortable enough for little ones to feel right at home. We especially loved breakfast in bed before checking out!

Dining on-site is also a treat. We enjoyed a relaxed evening at Breva one night. And, the trendy Masa & Agave, another. This moody basement cantina felt like a secret hideaway. It's a great spot for Mexican hot chocolate before heading out. While we didn't visit the spa this time, it's high on our list for a future stay.

In my opinion, Hotel Ivy combines timeless beauty with unbeatable walkable access to downtown, making it a top-notch stay for families planning to explore Minneapolis together. It's a unique, luxurious option for families who want something truly special during their visit to the Twin Cities.

Snapshot of Family Amenities at Hotel Ivy

Here's a quick view of the kid-friendly amenities found at Hotel Ivy:

• Historic building with an outstanding downtown Minneapolis location
• Rooms + suites
• Recently Renovated
• In-room dining available
• 2 on-site restaurants
• Anda Spa + Wellness Classes
• Bicycle Rentals
• Fitness Center
• Family-friendly packages available 

Great Wolf Lodge Water Park | Minnesota, Bloomington

For families planning a getaway that's all about fun, comfort, and kid-approved magic, Great Wolf Lodge delivers a truly unforgettable stay! Located in Bloomington, Great Wolf Lodge is just a few miles from Minneapolis and only blocks away from the Mall of America. 

This is hands-down one of the best hotels near Minneapolis with kids-a full-on resort experience designed just for families. From the moment you arrive, the excitement kicks in. Your kids will be itching to dive into the massive indoor water park (which you can enjoy even before check-in!). With slides of all sizes, splash zones, a lazy river, and zero-depth entry areas for little swimmers, the water fun never stops. And when everyone dries off? There's still more to explore. Think mini bowling, a climbing wall, arcade games, and the beloved MagiQuest adventure, where your kids become wand-wielding heroes. We did a birthday staycation here, and my daughter STILL talks about what a great birthday it was.

We love that there's something for every age. Not to mention, convenient on-site dining that keeps everyone fueled and happy (hello, poolside snacks and drinks!). The on-site eats have you covered from coffee to dinner. You never have to leave if you don't want to. 

Plus, the themed suites with bunk beds are always a hit with kids! With options that sleep up to 8 or 9, the Great Wolf Lodge is also one of the best options for large families or multi-family groups. If you’re planning a weekend getaway to Minneapolis with kids and want to center the whole experience around your kids, this is your best option. Finally, on-site parking is available at an added rate.

Snapshot of Family Amenities at Great Wolf Lodge Water Park

There are endless family amenities at Great Wolf Lodge Water Park! Here's a quick snapshot:

• Rooms + suites, including bunk-bed family suites and premium suites (the largest room configuration sleeps 8-9)
• Indoor water park, featuring 10 attraction areas 
• 7 additional on-site activities for all ages, including MagiQuest, Rustic Ridge Climbing Wall, Oliver’s Mining Co., Ten Paw Alley, Howlers Peak Ropes Course, Northern Lights Arcade, and a Build-A-Bear Workshop
• Free daily events and activities for all ages (story time, crafts, character meet and greets, etc.)
• 9 on-site eateries, including poolside dining, ice cream, donuts and coffee, and pizza
• 6 on-site stores for gifts, souvenirs, and more
• Easy access to the Mall of America and the rest of the Twin Cities
• On-site (paid) parking is available 
• Family-friendly packages available 

JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America, Bloomington

For a luxurious, family-friendly stay just steps from top attractions, the JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America delivers on every level. We recently stayed here during the holidays for a festive staycation and loved every minute! The spacious rooms offered fun views of planes taking off and landing-an unexpected highlight for our daughter-and the calm, elegant atmosphere made it easy to unwind (even during the stress of the holiday season!).

Connected to the Mall of America, JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America makes exploring with kids incredibly convenient. Whether you’re heading to Nickelodeon Universe, SEA LIFE Aquarium, or grabbing a quick bite at one of the 50+ restaurants at the Mall of America, everything is just a short indoor walk away. Of course, you can always go shopping too! The Mall of America offers endless retail options for all budgets, ages, and interests.

During our visit, we also made time to enjoy the indoor heated pool. And, of course, treated ourselves to dinner at Cedar + Stone. This on-site restaurant is known for its locally sourced, beautifully plated dishes. It’s one of our favorite dining spots in the Twin Cities. (They have a great kids' menu, too!)

Thoughtful touches and a welcoming staff create a relaxing experience in the heart of the Twin Cities. If you’re deciding where to stay near Minneapolis with kids, the JW Marriott is a top choice for comfort, convenience, and a little luxury the whole family can enjoy.

Snapshot of Family Amenities at JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America

Here's a look at the family amenities that make the JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America one of the best hotels near Minneapolis with kids.:

• Rooms + suites
• Indoor pool
• Fitness Center
• On-site restaurant, Cedar + Stone
• Connected to the Mall of America + easy access to the rest of the Twin Cities
• You can take a tram from the airport to the Mall of America
• Paid ramp parking is available on-site
• Family-friendly packages available 

Radisson Blu Mall of America, Bloomington

For families who want to stay right in the middle of the action, Radisson Blu Mall of America truly delivers. We've stayed here ourselves, and it's one of those hotels that immediately makes traveling with kids feel easier. The modern design feels fresh and calm, the staff welcomes you with genuine Midwestern warmth, and the overall vibe is polished without ever feeling stuffy (seriously, perfect for families!).

What really sets Radisson Blu apart is its direct connection to the Mall of America. No bundling up. No loading the car. You can walk straight into Nickelodeon Universe, SEA LIFE Aquarium, shops, and dozens of restaurants. It's a dream setup, whether you're planning a Twin Cities staycation or visiting from out of town. The free shuttle to MSP Airport and light-rail access make getting around even easier for out-of-town visitors.

Families love the spacious rooms, which comfortably sleep up to four. And, the thoughtful perks like kids under 18 staying free. After a day of exploring, the indoor pool is a hit with kids. Watch for family packages, too. Past stays have included fun extras like in-room tents and tickets to Mall of America attractions.

When it's time to eat, FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar is a standout. The Minnesota-inspired, farm-to-table menu highlights local flavors, making it a great place to reconnect over the day's adventures. The menu even features a map of the local farms they support. There is a lovely kids' menu, alongside LEGO and coloring supplies. You HAVE to get the bison empanadas (you can thank me later!).

With its unbeatable location, family-friendly amenities, and welcoming spirit, Radisson Blu Mall of America is an ideal home base for families exploring the Twin Cities with kids.

Snapshot of Family Amenities at Radisson Blu Mall of America

Here are the family amenities you can expect at Radisson Blu Mall of America:

• Rooms + family-connecting rooms available 
• Indoor pool
• Fitness Center
• On-site restaurant, FireLake Grill House and Cocktail Bar (kids' menu available)
• Room service is offered through the on-site restaurant
• Connected to the Mall of America + easy access to the rest of the Twin Cities
• Free shuttle to MSP Airport and light-rail connectivity
• Paid ramp parking + valet parking is available on-site
• Family-friendly packages available 
• Friendly staff at the hotel and restaurant

Best Western, Several Locations in the Twin Cities

When you’re planning a family trip and want something reliable, affordable, and convenient, Best Western is one of our go-to picks for kid-friendly places to stay. With multiple locations across the Twin Cities, it's a brand we trust, especially when we're traveling with our daughter and want to keep things simple and stress-free.

Each Best Western offers a consistent and comfortable experience, so you can focus on making memories instead of sweating the details. Most properties include family favorites like indoor pools and complimentary breakfasts (hello, waffle machines!), making it easy to start your day on a high note before heading out to explore.

Whether you’re visiting a museum in downtown Saint Paul, catching a game in Minneapolis, or heading to the Mall of America, Best Western’s convenient locations make it easy to access your next adventure. It's the kind of place where you know what to expect-and that peace of mind goes a long way when you’re traveling with kids.

If you're wondering where to stay with kids in Minneapolis and Saint Paul without breaking the bank, Best Western offers the right balance of comfort, value, and family-friendly amenities. Here are a few Best Western properties in the Twin Cities to consider (there are over 20 Best Western properties across Minnesota!):

• Best Western Plus St. Paul North/Shoreview, near downtown Saint Paul
• Best Western Plus The Normandy Inn & Suites, downtown Minneapolis
• Best Western Plus White Bear Country Inn is super cute with local flair and offers a great location in a charming lake community near Saint Paul

READ NEXT: 12 Summer Day Trips from Minneapolis that Families with Kids will Love

A Few More Places to Consider

While we haven't personally stayed at every hotel in the Twin Cities (this would be an ENORMOUS undertaking!), many properties come highly recommended by travel families we know and trust. Through referral recommendations and thoughtful research, I've rounded up additional considerations for some of the best Minneapolis and Saint Paul hotels with kids. These spots consistently deliver on comfort, convenience, and family-friendly amenities, making them top picks for anyone wondering where to stay in the Twin Cities with their kids.

Here are a few more hotels in Minneapolis to consider in your search:

Here are a few more options to consider as you search for the best Minneapolis hotels with kids. Each recommendation offers family-friendly amenities for all ages, like pools, top-notch locations, and on-site dining.

• The Westin Minneapolis offers a superb downtown Minneapolis location with an indoor pool and hot tub.

• Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis is the only 5-star hotel in the Twin Cities. They offer a great location in the trendy North Loop neighborhood. Plus, indoor and outdoor pools, an on-site spa, on-site dining, in-room tents for littles, and more.

• Canopy by Hilton Minneapolis Mill District is located in the vibrant Mill District. The hotel offers connecting rooms and an on-site restaurant.

• Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, The Depot is just steps from the Mississippi River in Minneapolis’ Mill District neighborhood. They offer on-site dining, too.

• W Minneapolis – The Foshay is a historic hotel with 360-degree views from the 30th-floor observation deck. The hotel has a great location and on-site dining, too. 

• Nicollet Island Inn is a unique property located on an island in Minneapolis. This historic property offers luxurious rooms and on-site dining (including Afternoon Tea services). 

• The Westin Edina Galleria (Edina) is in the heart of the Twin Cities (just minutes from Minneapolis). The property offers an indoor pool, spa, on-site dining, and several seasonal add-ons.

Here are a few more hotels in Saint Paul to consider in your search:

Beyond Minneapolis, Saint Paul also has some fantastic hotel options for families. Here are a few hotels in Saint Paul for families to consider.

• The Saint Paul Hotel, located downtown, is a historic hotel offering top-notch service, in-room dining, on-site dining (including Afternoon Tea services), and more.

• Drury Plaza Hotel St. Paul Downtown offers an excellent downtown Saint Paul location, spacious two-room suites, an indoor pool, and complimentary breakfast.

• InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront is located in downtown Saint Paul along the river. The property also offers on-site dining.

• SpringHill Suites St. Paul Downtown is in the historic Lowertown area of Saint Paul. The property features an indoor pool, a complimentary breakfast, and suite-style accommodations.

Have Fun Exploring Minneapolis with Your Kids

Whether you’re planning a staycation or visiting from out of town, Minneapolis and the greater Twin Cities area offer plenty of great hotel options for families with kids of all ages. From splashy waterpark resorts near the Mall of America to stylish downtown hotels, these top picks for the best Minneapolis hotels make it easy to plan a memorable trip with your kids. Undoubtedly, if you’re looking for kid-friendly places to stay in Minneapolis or Saint Paul, each of these properties brings something special to the table-whether it's a fun pool, on-site dining, or an unbeatable location. No matter your budget or travel style, you’ll find the perfect spot on this list for your next weekend getaway to Minneapolis with kids.

Unless otherwise noted, all images in this article were taken by and belong to the blog's author, Antonia Grant. This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy for more information.