A 2026 Family Fun Guide for St. Louis Park & Golden Valley

Whether it’s a vacation or a staycation, keeping kids engaged matters. Near Minneapolis, St. Louis Park and Golden Valley bring together indoor playgrounds, splash pads, nature centers, interactive art, and plenty more for families. Use this guide to plan memorable Westopolis adventures for children of every age.

March 23, 2026

1. Backyard Indoor Playground — Golden Valley

Children ages 2–12 can climb, run, and investigate the many play features at Backyard Indoor Playground. The setup includes twisty tubes, cargo climbs, super slides, bumper balls, log rollers, and cave crawls. For meals, Three One Six Bar + Grill offers family favorites such as burgers and sandwiches, along with kid-friendly choices.

2. Game Show Battle Rooms — St. Louis Park

At Game Show Battle Rooms, families ages 10+ can take part in experiences modeled after familiar television game shows. Options range from Survey Battles, Spin & Solve, and What’s That Cost? to primetime-style games including MatchUp Wars and Time Rush Games. It’s an energetic, hands-on outing for groups and families.

3. Park Tavern Bowling & Entertainment Center — St. Louis Park

A St. Louis Park favorite for over 60 years, Park Tavern combines bowling, games, dining, and outdoor space. Amenities include:

• 20 bowling lanes
• Arcade games and dart boards
• A full-service restaurant offering vegan and gluten-free options
• An outdoor patio with lawn games for 150+ guests

For a complete family evening, pair a bowling session with dinner and arcade games.

4. Pavek Museum of Electronic Communication — St. Louis Park

The Pavek Museum of Electronic Communication houses one of the world’s most significant collections of vintage radio and television equipment. Visitors of all ages can discover lessons in electromagnetism, sound, and broadcasting history. Notable items include the Philco Mystery Control Radio, Theremin, and the Minnesota Broadcasting Hall of Fame.

5. Schaper Park Challenge Course — Golden Valley

Drawing inspiration from Ninja Warrior, the outdoor fitness challenge course at Schaper Park gives both kids and adults a chance to test their skills. Visitors can tackle obstacle courses or use the all-inclusive play structure created for people of all abilities.

6. Marcus West End Cinema — St. Louis Park

See current movie releases at Marcus West End Cinema with features designed for a comfortable outing:

• Stadium seating
• Advance seat reservations
• Free parking in the attached ramp

The Magical Movie Rewards program can provide discounts on food and drinks.

7. Westwood Hills Nature Center

Westwood Hills Nature Center spans 160 acres of marsh, woods, and prairie, offering families a place to spend time outdoors. Available activities and amenities include:

• Birdwatching and observing wildlife
• Geocaching and accessible trails
• Educational programs and live animal exhibits featuring a red-tailed hawk, barred owl, and kestrel
• Winter recreation, including snowshoeing and kicksled rentals

8. Canvas Convergence — St. Louis Park

At The Shops at West End in St. Louis Park, Canvas Convergence invites visitors to step into seasonal 3D illusion murals. The attraction includes:

• Wheelchair accessible exhibits
• Dedicated classroom space
• Gift shop

Its creative, immersive format appeals to children and adults alike.

9. St. Louis Park Aquatic Park

St. Louis Park Aquatic Park delivers over 20,000 sq. ft. of water-centered recreation, with features such as:

• Zero-depth entry and spray features for young children
• Four-story slides and diving boards for older kids
• Lap swim times for adults
• Picnic areas and concessions

The park operates June–August, weather permitting.

10. Splash Pad — St. Louis Park

Oak Hill Splash Pad covers 2,350 sq. ft. and uses sensors, hoses, and sprinkler arches to create a water-filled play area for toddlers and young children. It is seasonal, operating from June–early August.

11. Lawn Bowling — Golden Valley

Families can try lawn bowling, a game similar to bocce ball, at Brookview on Minnesota’s largest green. The venue has 8 reservable rinks, making it an option for participants of all ages.

12. Pub Curling — Golden Valley

During winter, Brookview offers outdoor pub curling on synthetic ice. The activity is suited to beginners as well as people looking for a relaxed curling experience.

13. Snow Tubing — Golden Valley

The Tubing Hill at Theodore Wirth Regional Park remains a favorite winter outing for families. Tow ropes are included; visitors just need to dress in warm clothes.

14. Ice Skating — St. Louis Park & Golden Valley

More than 20 indoor and outdoor ice skating rinks are available throughout St. Louis Park and Golden Valley. Examples include:

• St. Louis Park Rec Center, with year-round indoor skating
• ROC covered rink, available in winter
• Outdoor park rinks with warming houses

Why Families Choose Westopolis

• Near Minneapolis: Families can reach city amenities while staying in a more peaceful suburban setting.
• A wide range of attractions: Interactive museums, water parks, and other destinations offer choices for every age.
• Fun in every season: Spring, summer, and winter each bring their own activities.
• Accessible and easy to explore: Family-friendly parks, trails, and entertainment centers support a variety of outings.

Your 2026 Family-Fun Guide to Westopolis

For a staycation or a weekend trip near Minneapolis, Westopolis—St. Louis Park and Golden Valley—has something for kids, teenagers, and adults. Splash pads, playgrounds, immersive art, and nature trails all contribute to memorable time together.

The source page also includes social media prompts for Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, along with the hashtag #Westopolis, inviting visitors to share their photos. It promotes “Sweet Happenings” as an insider “scoop” on can't-miss news and events and includes a newsletter signup confirmation.