When life gives Minnesotans lemons in the winter, they make a lake-full of lemonade in the summer. Once the weather warms up in Minneapolis-St. Paul, the numerous patios, lakes, trails, and seasonal venues open up in full force. The only challenge is taking full advantage of the few sacred months, so Yelp Twin Cities has curated this cant-miss Summer Bucket List to keep you on track. Whether you’re a local soaking up every lick of sun or are visiting the Land of 10,000 Lakes, here is a check list of what to do, eat, and see in the Twin Cities this summer.
Full Twin Cities Summer Bucket List collection here.
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What to do: Ride the ferris wheel or play mini golf while sipping summer cocktails at Betty Danger’s Country Club.
What Yelpers say: “From the top of the Ferris wheel we could actually see downtown. This moment was much better then I could have ever imagined. It’s not every day you find yourself spinning above the city in front of a bar on a Ferris wheel. This is probably one of the most unique features I’ve ever seen at a bar. You can even take cocktails with you while it’s running.” – Anthony M
What to do: Skyline Mini Golf on the rooftop of the Walker Art Center. Each hole is uniquely designed by a local artist.
What Yelpers say: “There are 10 holes in total and it takes about 45 minutes to get through… The rooftop does look over the skyline so while you are waiting, you can take in the view.” – Stacey D
What to do: Take a dip in the country’s first natural public pool at Webber Park.
What Yelpers say: “This pool is a really great local resource! It’s the first natural pool in the country, which means it’s filtered with plants and has no chemical treatment. There are lifeguards, lanes for swimming and a platform for jumping/diving. It is wade in style and much more like a lake than a pool.” – Stephanie K
What to do: Venture to a farm-to-picnic-blanket pizza night at a “pizza farm” like Red Barn Farm or Pleasant Grove Pizza Farm. See Yelp bookmark collection for select nights and hours at each pizza farm.
What Yelpers say: “The property is very beautiful, with lots of space to spread out, beautiful views, animals roaming around, and well-kept gardens & outbuildings… The pizza is delicious and homemade using ingredients from their garden.” – Olivia H on Red Barn Farm
What to do: Several outdoor activities at Lake Harriet’s beach, bandshell and adjacent parks.
What Yelpers say: “I’ll say it: this is my favorite lake in the Cities… there’s a lot going on this park: water device rentals, foods and drinks at Bread & Pickle, a Rose Garden, the Peace Garden, the biking trails, the walking/running trails, the movies and concerts at the Bandshell, and all sorts of festivals throughout the year.” – Elizabeth R
What to do: Shop local at the St. Paul Farmer’s Market.
What Yelpers say: “There are tons of options for fresh produce. There are booths selling more value-added food products, such as specialized cooking sauces or premium granolas. There are small eateries offering snacks, meals, and beverages for instant consumption.” – Kevin B
What to do: Feast on fresh seafood on the patio of Sea Salt Eatery.
What Yelpers say: “It’s that time of year when Sea Salt is open for business and you must go here. The food is amazing and the place is always packed which is a good sign. On top of the amazing food you can go for a walk around Minnehaha Falls which just adds to the overall experience.” – Maggie P
What to do: Bike the Gateway Trail.
What Yelpers say: “The Gateway is an 18.3 mile long flat, paved, rail-to-trail that extends from the heart of St. Paul’s North End to its country terminus at Pine Point County Park in rural Stillwater… The first several miles starting at the St. Paul end and heading north east will take you past a trout stream, wildlife refuge, over bridges, and with the sight of wildlife interspersed with gang graffiti covered industrial buildings.” – Justin T
What to do: Watch a St. Paul Saints minor league baseball game at CHS Field.
What Yelpers say: “The Saints are all about FUN. There are activities between every inning. Their PA announcer is entertaining and they have several different mascots and creative and fun events. The Saints are owned by Mike Veeck and Bill Murray. Yes that Bill Murray.” – Chris C
What to do: Grab Southern-inspired seafood and cocktails on the rooftop patio of 4 Bells.
What Yelpers say: ” If you have not been, you definitely should try, as the new Chef has put a nice spin on the foods and takes pride in all his dishes. You can really tell he loves what he does! This summer it’s going to be ‘the place to be.’ With its gorgeous rooftop and views of the park, where else would you want to be?” – Margaret L
Feeling inspired? You can create and share your own Summer bookmark collection in any city via yelp.com or the free Yelp app!
