Summer is officially here—and whether you’re already settled into your new home or just getting to know the area, there are plenty of ways for families to celebrate the end of the school year without breaking the bank. From free treats to splash pad adventures, the Minneapolis–St. Paul Metro is packed with fun, free ways to welcome the season.
🍪 End-of-School Treats for Kids & Grads
Buca di Beppo – Graduates get a free cannoli when dining in.Insomnia Cookies – Through June 30, grads in cap and gown get a free cookie with purchase.
🍦 Ice Cream Socials & Free Cone Days
Dairy Queen – Participating locations offer Free Cone Days. Check local DQ Facebook pages for dates.Free Ice Cream Events – Hosted by Minneapolis Parks
McRae Park: June 5, 6–8 PM
Bottineau Field Park: June 10, 6–8 PM + movie
MLK Rec Center: June 11, 6–8 PM w/ Sebastian Joe’s
🎳 Kids Bowl Free Program
Kids registered through KidsBowlFree.com get 2 free games of bowling per day all summer at participating centers.🎨 Arts & Culture Highlights
MIA (Minneapolis): Always free. Don’t miss Family Days (2nd Sundays).Walker Art Center: Free First Saturdays + Sculpture Garden
Como Zoo (St. Paul): Free admission, splash pad, gardens & zoo
🌳 Outdoor Nature Play
Minnehaha Falls: Waterfall views, trails, splash pad (Minneapolis)Tamarack Nature Center: Muddy fun in Discovery Hollow (White Bear Township)
Hyland Park Reserve: Huge playground + trails (Bloomington)
📚 Library Summer Programs
Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott & Dakota County libraries offer:Storytimes, take-home kits, and summer reading rewards (like Twins tickets!)
🎶 Free Events & Festivals
Movies in the Parks: Titles like Moana, Elemental, and Super Mario Bros.Full schedule → Minneapolis Parks
Open Streets Minneapolis: First event on June 9 (Lyndale Ave)
WaterFest – Lake Phalen: May 31, 2025 – free activities, canoeing, crafts
🏖️ Splash Pads & Beaches
Eagan Central Park Splash Pad – Shaded & picnic-readyNorth Commons Water Park (Mpls) – Waterslides & splash zone
Lake Nokomis Beach – Swim & sand, right in the city
Tip: Many of these promotions are time-sensitive and may require proof of graduation or age eligibility. Always check with the specific location or organization for the most current information before attending.
🏡 Where You Live Matters
Whether you’re looking for a home near splash pads, top schools, or the best summer hangouts—we’re here to help you find it.👉 Thinking of moving this summer?
Let’s talk about homes close to your favorite parks and playgrounds.
📩 Explore listings at HuerkampHomeGroup.com
