Family-friendly 2 days in Minneapolis/Bloomington

We%26#39;re staying at the Radisson MOA for 3 nights and 2 full days. Our kids are 9, 5, and 3. Please tell me about those don%26#39;t-miss sites and restaurants! Where can we get the most bang for our buck?

Unfortunately, it doesn%26#39;t look like the waterpark at the hotel is open until after our stay, so that%26#39;s out of the question...

Thanks!

Family-friendly 2 days in Minneapolis/Bloomington

Exactly when are you visiting?

Family-friendly 2 days in Minneapolis/Bloomington

I guess you%26#39;re staying for Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday? In May, their waterpark is open Thursday through Sunday and then daily starting June.

You will be very close to Mall of America. The amusement park in MOA is now called Nick Universe and is a must-see for kids. They have rides for the 3 year old. Also in the mall is Underwater Adventure which is a good aquarium. We like to have lunch or dinner in Rainforest Cafe when we visit.

A little further away is the Science Museum, the Childrens Museum, the Como Zoo and the Minnesota Zoo.

There are so many great things to do with kids. If you enjoy the outdoors I recommend the creative play area at Hyland Lake Park Preserve. It%26#39;s 16,000 square feet of total fun for kids of all ages. It%26#39;s located in Bloomington. There are also great hiking trails through the area. Minneahaha Falls in Minneapolis is also a great outdoor spot to view the falls and take an easy hike. Another great way to see the city is to rent bikes and ride the endless miles of trails around the city lakes or the Mississippi River. The loop around the city is called the Grand Rounds. Great way to see the area. You can rent canoes at Lake Calhoun. See a band concert at Lake Harriet. Take a boat cruise on the Mississippi River. Walk through the sculpture garden at the Walker Art Center. These are just a few suggestions. Depends on your interests.

My favorite family place to eat for the world%26#39;s best hamburgers, malts and hand cut fries is Annie%26#39;s Parlor on the Univ. Of Minnesota campus in Dinkytown. My kid loves it almost as much as me! Have fun.

Food for the family -

Edina - Patrick%26#39;s Bakery - unbelievable baked

goods, great sandwiches, soups, etc.

TJ%26#39;s of Edina - Strip Mall eatery homemade

pizzas, soups, sandwiches, desserts.

Eden Prairie - Lion%26#39;s Tap - Burger joint -

Legendary

Baker%26#39;s Ribs - Texas bbq - fresh, hot,

tasty.

Chanhassen - Rey Azteca - Authentic Mexican fare,

very reasonable.

More to come if needed.