Homeschool Summer Adventures Near Minneapolis
Fun and Learning for the Whole Family
Summer is here in Minneapolis! Can you believe it?! ☀️ Those long, cold winters feel like a distant memory now, replaced with sunshine, warm breezes, and the promise of endless adventures.
For me, Ashley, summer is the absolute best time of year. I am not originally from Minnesota, and let's just say I wasn't built for all that snow! Give me hot days by the lake over bundled-up winters any day.
But enough about me! How are YOU feeling about summer break kicking off? Are you itching to get outside like I am? Or are you in the midst of planning out all those fun activities to keep your homeschool crew busy and learning?
Annette and I are all about creating a summer that's both educational and exciting for our kids. That's why we've put together a list of our favorite outdoor adventures around the Minneapolis area that are perfect for homeschool families. We'd love to hear your favorites too, so leave a comment below and let us know what you're planning for this summer!
Whether you're seeking budget-friendly fun or educational escapes into nature, this list has something for everyone. In no particular order, here are some of our favorite summer adventures close to the Twin Cities.
Pool Time:
Let's be honest, sometimes the summer heat demands a cool-down. Here are some great pool options:
Lazy River at Como Pool
Richfield Pool: Hear me out on this one. I know this doesn’t seem like the most exciting offering but this is an affordable option perfect for frequent dips. Plus, buying passes early saves you even more! More information here.
Como Pool: We make a pilgrimage to this pool every summer. This unique pool boasts a zip line, lazy river, and cliff jumping – a guaranteed hit with older kids. It's also open later in the season, extending your aquatic fun. More information here.
Bunker Beach Water Park: This is the largest outdoor waterpark in Minnesota and although we haven’t been, it's on our list for this summer. It has a wave pool, water slides and a lazy river. My kids CANNOT wait to go. More information here.
Nature's Classroom:
Minnesota is brimming with natural wonders. These nature centers and parks are perfect for day trips filled with learning and exploration:
Discovery Hollow Nature Play Area at Tamarack Nature Center
Tamarack Nature Center: Immerse yourselves in the beauty of the wetlands and prairies. While you are there make sure you save some time to check out Discovery Hollow Nature Play Area. It’s not to be missed. (Pro Tip: pack a change of clothes and towels. The nature play area has water and it’s a great way to cool off on a hot summer day.) More information here.
Afton State Park: Combine a beach day with a quick backpacking trip (perfect for older kids) or just enjoy a lovely hike. The views stunning here. More information here.
Eastman Nature Center (Elm Creek): Explore forests, prairies, mountain bike, ride a bike, swim in the sand bottom pool and check out an epic playground! More information here.
Quarry Hill: A bit further of a drive in Rochester, Minnesota, lies a unique opportunity: fossil hunting in an old sandstone quarry. This park offers a rare chance to unearth remnants of prehistoric life. (Pro tip: bring a small rock pick to help with the fossil hunt.) More information here.
Whitetail Woods Regional Park: Hike through woodlands and meadows, encountering diverse wildlife, plus don’t miss the outdoor nature play area. More information here.
Lake Maria State Park: This is a great place to head for a hike in the woods or a quick backpacking trip. I particularly like to head here in late summer when the nights get cooler and the bugs are fewer. More information here.
Wild River State Park: With over 30 miles of hiking trails and the beautiful Saint Croix River, this park is a true gem. It’s a great place to see beavers and bald eagles. More information here.
Cowling Arboretum: Looking to get in nature and not see many people? Try this place out. The hike is a lovely mix of woods, prairie and wetlands. Sometimes there are even goats for invasive species removal! More information here.
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge: The autotour is a great loop to see wildlife. We have biked and driven the loop and both were really enjoyable. Add to the adventure and bring your swimming gear and head to Sand Dune State Forest for swimming and more hiking. More information here.
Beyond the Books:
Summer learning doesn't have to be confined to textbooks! Here are some creative ideas:
Example of a Nature Journal entry from a trip to the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum.
Summer Nature Journaling: It’s pretty magical to go hiking, find a beautiful spot and sit in the forest and work on a watercolor painting with your kids. I for one am not artistic but it's been a nice way to connect with my more artistic kids and reconnect with the kid within myself.
Library Destination Days: Combine your love of books with exploring new areas. Each week, pair a different library visit with a nearby park, beach, or activity. Here is a list of some of my favorite ones:
Ridgedale Library paired with French Lake Regional Park or a hike at Grays Bay Dam Park
Great River Regional Library - Delano paired with Lake Rebecca Park Reserve Playground
Augsburg Park Library paired with Augsburg Adventure Park
North Regional Library and a bike ride on the Grand Rounds or head to Carl W. Kroening Nature Center
Wayzata Library and swimming at Wayzata Beach on Lake Minnetonka. Pro tip: Make sure you grab some fresh squeezed lemonade at the beach front snack stand.
Hudson Public Library with time exploring the Saint Croix River
Getting a bit of school work done at The Ridgedale Library before heading to French Lake Park!
Hidden Gem: ⛳️
Big Stone Mini Golf isn't your average mini golf course. This artistic masterpiece is a must-visit for a unique blend of mini golf fun and artistic inspiration. Pack a lunch and make a day of it with nearby attractions like Gale Woods Farm or the Arboretum. More information here.
A little rainy finishing up the 18th hole!
This is just a starting point for your amazing Minneapolis summer adventures! What are your favorite spots to explore with your homeschool crew? Share your ideas in the comments below, and let's make this summer unforgettable!
Stay Curious!
-Ashley
