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, Super Mario Bros.
Full schedule → Minneapolis Parks

Open Streets Minneapolis: First event on June 9 (Lyndale Ave)
Event calendar

WaterFest – Lake Phalen: May 31, 2025 – free activities, canoeing, crafts
More info

🏖️ Splash Pads & Beaches

Eagan Central Park Splash Pad – Shaded & picnic-ready

North 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