Summer's nearly here, or, if you're one of the lucky ones, you have already begun your summer break. Go out and enjoy the summery weather that comes along with the end of school. Take a hike or enjoy a bike ride. But when July or August hits and you're looking for some fun, free (or almost free) activities to do, keep this list in mind as you scour the internet for ideas of what do do with your spare hours.
1. Visit Como Zoo. Fun for all ages! The attached conservatory is beautiful too. The only thing that'll cost you is a ride on the historic carousel on the grounds.
The gorillas and other primates are the big draws, but I like the flamingo's best. Or the penguins. Penguins are cool. There's also a polar bear and tortoises.
2. Take a walk near the Mississippi River. Or bike it.
There are paths across much of Minnesota too, so if you don't want to or can't bike the Mississippi, there's probably a path not too far away. Don't have your own bike? Rent one of Minneapolis's Nice Ride bikes for $4 per 1/2 hour. Or buy a years membership for $75.
3. Wander Midtown Global Market for a few hours. Get some lunch, pick up a few groceries, and maybe do some light shopping. There's something for everyone.
Go mid-day in the afternoon for the least crowded experience, but it's good any time of day.
5. Take in the Aquatennial, or any other parade or festival in the Cities. (There's one at least once a month)
But don't forget the small towns across the state. Grand Rapids has Wizard of Oz Days in June, Stillwater's Lumberjack Days in July, and Aitkin has Riverboat Days in August. Delano's Fourth of July parade is HUGE. Art festivals run all throughout the summer throughout the state.
6. Head up to St. Cloud and take in the Munsinger Rose Garden. If you aren't up for the drive, take in the Lyndale Rose Garden.
If you aren't a fan of roses, there are all sorts of other flowers in their color-themed gardens as well as sculptures all over the place.
7. Hike the North Shore
There are miles of hiking paths on both the Minnesota and Wisconsin side of the lake, and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area is only a few more hours away.
8. Tour a brewery. There's several around the Twin Cities.
Many of the local breweries are open to the public for tours. Not up for organizing your own tour? There are several companies dedicated to creating tours for you, along with transport and setting up the visits. Though that may not be free, a tour at Surly Brewing will only cost you $5.
9. Check out the Minneapolis Farmers Market. Although it's open every day of the week from May to October, it's best in the early mornings.
There are other farmers markets, sure, but this one is one of the biggest in Minnesota, and it's great for picking up your fresh fruits and veggies for the week from local growers.
10. Check out the Twin Cities River Rats
Thursday evenings on West River Road by Broadway Pizza, these "River Rats" put on a free water ski exhibition with themes and elaborate costumes. They even make pyramids 4 rows tall on ski's!
11. Take in a Drag Race out in Litchfield
For just $10, and some gas money, you can take in a local drag race at Grove Creek Raceway, 6 miles west of Litchfield on County Road 12. There are people here proving that there's no age limit to the amount of fun you can have. Be prepared, as it does get loud, and there are few trees for shade.
