This post, featuring my guide to planning a summer day trip to Taylors Falls with kids, may contain affiliate links. For more, please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy (linked below).
If you’re searching for the ultimate summer day trip from Minneapolis, let me point you to one of our family favorites: Taylors Falls. This charming river town is very walkable, packed with fun things to do with kids, and it feels like a quintessential Minnesota summer destination. My daughter and I love spending long, sunny days here—climbing around near the glacial potholes, hiking along the St. Croix River, and cooling off with sweet treats from local spots. It’s a place where adventure meets small-town charm.
There’s no shortage of exciting summer things to do with kids in Taylors Falls. From paddleboats to playgrounds and scenic hikes with unforgettable views, it’s the kind of day that leaves everyone sun-kissed and happily exhausted. Of course, no summer visit is complete without checking out some of the best restaurants in Taylors Falls for a tasty treat or family meal. If you’re planning a summer day trip to Taylors Falls, this guide will help you make the most of every moment with your family.
Where to Stay in Taylors Falls with Kids
Planning a weekend getaway to Taylors Falls with kids instead of exploring for the day? Here’s where to stay in Taylors Falls for families:
- Wildwood RV Park & Campground
- Wannigan Point Cabins Resort
- Nordic Harbor Inn
- Check Vrbo for listings near Taylors Falls
1-Day Summer Itinerary for Taylors Falls with Kids
Taylors Falls is undoubtedly one of our favorite Minnesota day trips with kids—just an hour from Minneapolis and packed with summer fun! This charming, easy-to-explore town is full of adventure. Wondering how to make the most of a sunny day this summer? Here’s how to enjoy some of the best summer things to do with kids in Taylors Falls in one day!
READ NEXT: 8 Genuinely Unique Day Trips from Minneapolis with Kids
Start Your Day at Coffee Talk
Kick off your fall day trip to Taylors Falls with a cozy stop at Coffee Talk. It’s one of the coziest restaurants in Taylors Falls (and, a must-visit in any season!). Tucked into a historic house in the heart of downtown, this local gem offers great coffee paired with a lovely wraparound porch. It’s the perfect spot to start your day in Taylors Falls.
Coffee Talk is known for its mouthwatering morning buns—don’t miss the raspberry or almond if they’re available! They go quickly, so come early. I always pair mine with an iced latte or the dreamy Sleepy Bear latte. Just a heads-up: if you miss the buns, food options are very limited (there are usually a few granola bars).
Hike at Interstate State Park
After breakfast, head straight to Interstate State Park—one of the top summer things to do with kids in Taylors Falls. This scenic state park is packed with adventure, from massive rock formations to the famous glacial potholes. It’s the perfect place to climb, hike, and explore with curious kiddos (my daughter can’t get enough!).
Start at the Glacial Potholes Area. The most popular part of the park, you’re likely to see other hikers and explorers (including climbers!). Here, kids can explore freely and soak in river views. Just be sure to keep them close at hand, there are some cliffsides without rails. This area alone is worth taking a Minnesota day trip with kids!
If you’re up for more hiking, the Summit Rock Trail offers a quick hike with river views. Alternatively, the Sandstone Bluffs Trail has sweeping panoramas of the valley.
With shaded trails, pretty darn cool rocks, and a gentle breeze off the St. Croix River, it’s a fantastic summer spot to stretch your legs and let kids burn off some extra energy. Finally, don’t miss the visitor center for hands-on exhibits about the park’s wild geology!
Alternative Morning Activity: Paddle Down the St. Croix River
If you’re looking for memorable summer day trip ideas for families in Taylors Falls, paddling the St. Croix River is one of our absolute favorites! It’s a great alternative if you’ve already hiked Interstate State Park or if you want to get on the water.
We recommend renting a canoe or a kayak from Taylors Falls Canoe & Kayak Rental. They launch right from Interstate State Park and offer a shuttle back to Taylors Falls as part of the experience. From Taylors Falls, you can leisurely paddle your way to Osceola (the pickup point).
This 7-mile stretch takes about three hours. The route offers the perfect mix of gentle current, dramatic cliffs, wildlife sightings, and sunny beach stops. It’s a fun, manageable paddle—even with kids! Feel free to enjoy the day, though! You could easily make it a four or five-hour trek by stopping at the different beaches and sand bars along the way. Just be sure to bring enough water and snacks for the journey.
Our daughter loved spotting turtles and eagles along the way. And, we all enjoyed swimming and snacking on a beach about halfway through. The route is beginner-friendly, and the outfitter makes logistics easy with shuttles and gear. Just pack a picnic, sunscreen, and plenty of water. If your family loves a little adventure, this river paddle is a top-notch way to soak up summer in Taylors Falls with kids.
Lunch at Juneberry Cafe
After your morning hike (or paddle), head back into downtown for lunch at Juneberry Café—one of our favorite lunch restaurants in Taylors Falls with kids. This bright, welcoming café is known for its fresh, locally sourced menu and cozy, laid-back vibe.
The menu changes with the seasons, but you’ll usually find hearty sandwiches (we love the ham and Swiss), salads, and daily soups. Their pastries are top-notch too—perfect for a little treat after exploring. While there’s no official kids’ menu, there are plenty of simple, satisfying options for little ones, from grilled cheese to baked goodies.
You can relax inside at one of the sunny tables or grab your lunch and enjoy it at nearby Heritage Park. Either way, Juneberry Café is a delicious and relaxing mid-day break.
Pro Tip: If you opt for a morning paddle, grab lunch to-go and enjoy it while you make your way down river! Beach picnic, anyone?
Putt Away the Afternoon at Adventure Falls Miniature Golf
For classic summer fun with kids in Taylors Falls, head to Adventure Falls Miniature Golf. This local spot is always a favorite stop on our summer day trips—it’s playful, low-key, and great for all ages. Whether you’re keeping score or just playing for laughs, mini golf here is a perfect way to slow down and soak up a sunny afternoon.
With 18 creative holes tucked among ponds, streams, and a cheerful waterfall, Adventure Falls is one of the best summer activities for families in Taylors Falls. Our daughter loves the whimsical course designs (and trying to beat mom and dad!). The staff is friendly, the grounds are beautifully maintained, and there’s just the right mix of challenge and silliness for all ages.
READ NEXT: 12 Summer Day Trips from Minneapolis that Families with Kids will Love
Dinner at the *Iconic* Taylors Falls Drive In
Wrap up your day trip to Taylors Falls with a visit to one of the most nostalgic Taylors Falls restaurants—The Drive In. Open since 1956, this classic carhop-style spot delivers vintage charm with every order. Think carhops in poodle skirts, red picnic tables, and frosty mugs of homemade root beer.
Our family loves ending a fun summer day here with burgers, crispy fries, and a hand-spun malt. There’s even a kids’ menu with dessert included (talk about an instant win!). Whether you dine in your car or grab a picnic table, it’s a fun, laid-back way to cap off your day trip to Taylors Falls.
More Fun Things to Do in Taylors Falls with Kids
If you are planning a family weekend getaway to Taylors Falls or want to make swaps to this itinerary, you may be looking for a few more things to do in the area. Consider adding one of the following fun things to do with kids in Taylors Falls to your day.
Consider adding or swapping one of these summer activities in Taylors Falls:
- Need a little pick-me-up? Grab an ice cream from Schoony’s Malt Shop and Pizzeria. They offer 30+ flavors!
- Wisconsin Interstate State Park is just across the river from Taylors Falls, and is the sister park to Minnesota’s Interstate State Park! They were the first pair of interstate parks in the nation. Add both to your itinerary to see the St. Croix River from both perspectives.
- Franconia Sculpture Garden, located in Shafer, is a 50-acre park with several massive and colorful art sculptures. It’s a charming spot for families to meander and explore grassy trails together.
- Wild River State Park is another nearby state park. It has 30+ miles of gorgeous hiking trails in the fall, including accessible paved trails.
- Wild Mountain is a thrilling addition to your day with kids in Taylors Falls! They have an exciting alpine coaster, go-kart track, on-site eats, and more.
- The Swedish Immigrant Regional Trail has a trailhead in Taylors Falls, too. The paved path makes it an excellent option for tiny trekkers and strollers.
- If you want to get on the water without the work of paddling, book a Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tour. The tour is great for all ages. Enjoy some of the most dramatic river views and cliffs near Taylors Falls. And, learn a bit of local history along the way.
Find more family-friendly ideas for things to do near Taylors Falls with kids—here are my top picks for 13 Terrific Summer Things to Do in Chisago Lakes with Kids.
Have Fun in Taylors Falls with Kids!
Taylors Falls with kids is the perfect recipe for a summer day full of memories. From hiking at Interstate State Park or paddling the scenic St. Croix River to playing mini golf and grabbing burgers at a classic drive-in, there’s no shortage of summer things to do in Taylors Falls. So get your kids, pack up the car, and set out on a fun day trip to Taylors Falls—it’s a family favorite you’ll want to return to again and again (just like us!).
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.