The dog days of summer are behind us and school is back in session but there is still plenty of fun to be had in Minneapolis. Conduct a routine check of your Minneapolis furnace as we slide into the cooler days of fall and then head out to enjoy some great entertainment around the Twin Cities.

Family Friendly Venues You Can Enjoy Without Charge:

• Minnehaha Park – Open daily from 6 a.m. – 10 p.m., this spectacular park stretches along the Mississippi River and features bike paths, a playground and volleyball courts.  The famous 53-foot Minnehaha Falls are a crowd favorite and the inspiration of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s epic poem, The Song of Hiawatha.

• Frederick R. Weisman Art Museum – This contemporary art museum is tucked into the University of Minnesota campus.  Inside, you’ll find a large collection of contemporary art from the likes of Andy Warhol, Georgia O’Keefe and Roy Lichtenstein.  The museum’s location also offers stunning views of the Mississippi River. Hours are Tuesday – Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (11:00 a.m. on weekends and until 8 p.m. on Thursdays).

• Mall of America – Thousands of families have found respite from boredom and bad weather at this massive shopping mecca.  Even if you don’t choose to go on some Nickelodeon Universe amusement rides, you can find a number of other attractions, restaurants and of course, stores, to while the day away.

Activities that are Worth the Money:

• Walker Art Center – Admission to this sprawling museum ranges from $6 – $10, although kids 12 and under can experience the art for free.  In addition to the Walker’s stunning collection of contemporary and modern art, the adjacent Walker Sculpture Garden is open from 6 a.m. to midnight.  Admission is free to tour such well-known sculptures as the Spoonbridge and Cherry.

• Minnesota Zoo – Need a break from soccer practice and homework?  Take the kids to the Minnesota Zoo where you can view over 2,000 animals.  If the weather is less than desirable, settle into the IMAX theatre.  The Minnesota Zoo is open every day from 9 a.m. – 4 or 6 p.m. (depending upon day and season). Admission is $10 for kids and $16 for adults.

• Mill City Museum – Lots of hands-on exhibits make this museum a family-friendly destination.  Learn about the history of Minnesota’s milling industry and see demonstrations of milling techniques in what once was world’s largest mill.  Admission runs from $5 for kids to $10 for adults and the museum is open Tuesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday afternoons.

What’s better than returning home after a memorable family day?  Knowing that your Minneapolis furnace is prepped and ready to keep your home comfortable in the cooler days of fall and winter.

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