If you’re looking for some fun things to do in Rochester, MN with your kids, look no further!
We’ve put together a list of 12 great activities that will keep the whole family entertained.
From zoos and amusement parks to museums and nature centers, there’s something for everyone here.
So grab your kids and get ready to have some fun!
#1. Apache Mall
Apache Mall is one of the best places to take your kids in Rochester, MN. There’s something for everyone here, from the youngest shoppers to the most experienced bargain hunters.
The mall features over 100 stores, including some of the most popular retailers in the country. Kids will love spending time at the food court, where they can enjoy a variety of their favorite snacks and meals.
And when they’re ready to burn off some energy, there’s an indoor playground that’s perfect for letting them run and play. Apache Mall is the perfect place to bring your family for a day of fun and shopping.
#2. Bounce World
If you’re looking for a fun-filled activity for the whole family, look no further than Bounce World in Rochester, MN. With over 10,000 square feet of bounceable surface, this indoor playground is perfect for kids of all ages.
Highlights include a giant inflatable slide, an obstacle course, and a special “bounce house” just for toddlers. In addition to all the bouncing fun, there’s also a cafe with a variety of snacks and drinks to keep everyone fueled up.
And best of all, parents can relax in the viewing area while their kids burn off some energy. So if you’re looking for a fun place to take the kids, be sure to check out Bounce World.
#3. Douglas Trail
Douglas Trail is a great place to take the kids for a day of fun in Rochester, MN. The trail is paved and easy to walk, making it perfect for strollers and wheelchairs.
There are also plenty of places to stop and rest along the way. The trailhead begins at Silver Lake and winds its way through the city, eventually ending at Mayo Park.
Along the way, you’ll pass by some of Rochester’s most popular attractions, including the Rochester Art Center, the Rochester Museum of Art, and the Minnesota Children’s Museum.
You can also take a detour to visit one of the many playgrounds or picnic areas along the route. Douglas Trail is a great way to get some exercise while exploring all that Rochester has to offer.
#4. Mayo Civic Center
The Mayo Civic Center is a great place to take kids in Rochester, MN. Not only is it a highly visible and accessible landmark downtown, but it also offers a variety of activities that will appeal to kids of all ages.
For instance, the Mayo Civic Center is home to an art museum, a history museum, and a science museum. In addition, there are often family-friendly events taking place in the auditorium, such as concerts, plays, and film screenings.
And if that’s not enough to keep the little ones entertained, there’s also an indoor playground and a kids’ room with toys and books. Best of all, admission to the Mayo Civic Center is free for children under the age of 12.
With so much to see and do, the Mayo Civic Center is certainly a great option for families looking for fun things to do in Rochester, MN.
#5. Monkey Junction
If you’re looking for a fun-filled day out with the kids, look no further than Monkey Junction in Rochester, MN. This family-friendly attraction features a variety of interactive exhibits and rides, making it the perfect place to spend a day exploring.
Highlights include the “monkey see monkey do” mirror maze, the rope course, and the zip line. There’s also a petting zoo and a café serving up delicious ice cream.
With so much to see and do, Monkey Junction is sure to keep the whole family entertained. So if you’re looking for a fun day out in Rochester, MN, be sure to check out Monkey Junction.
#6. Northwoods Orchard
Northwoods Orchard is a great place to take kids in Rochester, MN. The orchard offers a variety of activities for kids of all ages, including tractor rides, hayrides, and a corn maze.
Kids can also pick their own apples and pumpkins, making it a perfect Fall activity. In addition, Northwoods Orchard also has a petting zoo and a playground, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
And when you’re finished exploring the Orchard, you can stop by the on-site bakery for some homemade pies and cider. With so much to do, Northwoods Orchard is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
#7. Oxbow Park
Rochester, MN is a great place to raise a family. There are plenty of things to do with kids, and one of the most popular attractions is Oxbow Park.
The park features a variety of activities for children of all ages, including a playground, a petting zoo, and hiking trails. In addition, the park is home to a variety of wildlife, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.
The best part about Oxbow Park is that it is free to enter, making it a great option for families on a budget.
Whether you are looking for a place to take your kids for a day trip or you are looking for a longer vacation destination, Rochester, MN is sure to have something for everyone in the family.
#8. Plummer House
Located on the edge of Mayo Park in Rochester, the Plummer House is a historic house museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the past. The Plummer House was built in 1864 by local doctor T. B. Plummer and was home to three generations of the Plummer family.
Today, the house is furnished with period furnishings and features many original Plummer family belongings. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the house, or participate in one of the many educational programs offered throughout the year.
The Plummer House is a great way for kids to learn about local history and get a taste of what life was like in the 19th century.
#9. Quarry Hill Nature Center
Quarry Hill Nature Center is a great place to take kids in Rochester, MN. The nature center has over 100 acres of forest, prairie, and wetlands for kids to explore.
There are also several miles of hiking trails, a playground, and a picnic area. Quarry Hill is also home to a variety of animals, including turtles, frogs, snakes, and birds.
Kids can learn about the different animals through the nature center’s educational programs. The staff at Quarry Hill are always willing to answer any questions that kids (or adults) have about the nature center and its inhabitants.
If you’re looking for a fun and educational way to spend a day with your kids, be sure to check out Quarry Hill Nature Center!
#10. Silver Lake
Silver Lake has a playground, a sprayground, and plenty of sand for building castles.
There’s also a boardwalk that’s perfect for strolling, and the lake itself is perfect for swimming, fishing, and canoeing. In addition to all of the great things to do at Silver Lake, there are also plenty of places to eat nearby.
So whether you’re looking for a place to cool off on a hot day or just want to explore all that Rochester has to offer, Silver Lake is definitely worth a visit.
#11. Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial
Located in the heart of Rochester, Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial is a great place to take the kids for an educational and fun outing.
The memorial features a variety of interactive exhibits that teach about the history of the armed forces and the sacrifices made by those who have served.
Kids can explore the different branches of the military, learn about veterans from different conflicts, and even participate in a simulated battle.
Best of all, admission to the memorial is free for all visitors. So if you’re looking for an enjoyable and educational activity for the whole family, be sure to add Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial to your list.
#12. Spark
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Rochester, MN with kids, be sure to check out Spark! This interactive museum is perfect for families with children of all ages.
With hands-on exhibits, plenty of opportunities for learning, and a family-friendly atmosphere, Spark is sure to be a hit with everyone in your group.
From exploring the world of electricity to playing at a giant water table, there’s something for everyone at Spark. And if you get hungry during your visit, be sure to stop by the on-site cafe for a delicious bite to eat.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Spark is the perfect place to spend a day with the kids.