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Minneapolis, Minnesota with Kids: Water-Park Fun, Music History, and Sensory-Friendly Stops
Our family loved exploring Minneapolis, a city filled with kid approved attractions, meaningful history, and experiences that can be adapted for families traveling with sensory needs.
From an indoor water-park hotel to the country’s largest mall, here is how our trip unfolded and what other families should consider adding to their itinerary.
Staying at
This hotel was an instant hit.
Why kids love it:
- Indoor water park included with your stay
- Splash zones, slides, and wave pools for different comfort levels
- Themed family suites that feel like part of the adventure
- On-site dining and activities so you rarely need to leave
- Arcade games and evening entertainment
Sensory-friendly bonus:
Great Wolf Lodge provides a sensory guide to help families plan ahead. It outlines:
- Noise levels
- Lighting conditions
- Areas that tend to be busier
- Quieter spaces for breaks
Having this information in advance can make a big difference for autistic travelers.
Visiting
Paisley Park is located outside Minneapolis and is the former home and recording studio of Prince.
We chose to explore the outside only during this visit. I did not think my son would enjoy a full tour yet, but it was still special to see such an iconic place and talk about creativity and music history.
A Meaningful Stop:
We also visited the site where George Floyd was killed. It was a serious and emotional moment, and I used it as an opportunity to talk with my son about safety, respect, and how to interact with police officers.
Travel can include fun experiences, but it can also create space for important conversations.
You Cannot Skip
This massive shopping complex truly has everything.
During our visit we explored:
- Nickelodeon Universe, which has rides for many thrill levels
- Crayola Experience Mall of America, which offers designated sensory-friendly hours
- Dozens of restaurants and snack stops
- Wide walkways that make it easier to move at your own pace
It is easy to spend an entire day here without running out of things to do.
Skyline Photos on
During our stay we also took advantage of some photo opportunities on this famous pedestrian bridge overlooking the Mississippi River and downtown.
It is flat, spacious, and especially nice earlier in the day when crowds are lighter.
Sensory-Friendly Things to Do in Minneapolis
Families looking for calmer experiences may also want to consider:
- Visiting local lakes and riverfront trails early in the morning
- Exploring neighborhood parks and green spaces for outdoor breaks
- Checking museum schedules for sensory-friendly or low stimulation hours
- Taking riverfront walks near historic mill areas
- Enjoying quieter meals during off peak dining times
Planning ahead, building in rest breaks, and choosing attractions with flexibility can make Minneapolis a great destination for families traveling with autistic children.
For more tips and detailed breakdowns from our travels, check out my Instagram highlights for this trip on @autismspectrumadventures.
