Morning: Energy Burn & Outdoor Fun
Caponi Art Park
Start your day with nature + art at Caponi Art Park. Kids can explore winding trails dotted with large-scale sculptures, and the open green spaces are perfect for running around or a mid-morning picnic. Bonus: it’s free!
Alternative: In warmer months, hit the Eagan Splash Pad at Central Park – a top pick for little ones who love water play.
Lunch Break: Family Favorites
Mason Jar Kitchen & Bar
Head to Mason Jar for a relaxed, family-friendly lunch. Their kid’s menu is stacked with tasty options (plus coloring activities!), and parents will appreciate the locally sourced comfort food.
Quick Pick: Grab sandwiches or salads to-go from Cafe Zupas, then head to Blackhawk Park for a picnic and playground break.
Afternoon: Indoor Fun & Learning
Minnesota Zoo
You can’t visit Eagan without a stop at the world-renowned Minnesota Zoo – just minutes away! From the interactive Farm Babies area to the indoor Tropics Trail and cool summer splash pad, there’s something for every age and season.
Extra Time? Check out the Good Times Park, an indoor, self-serve play space perfect for rainy days or high-energy kids. Climbing structures, scooters, and imaginative play zones = parent win.
Sweet Treat Stop
Cool off with a refreshing treat from Rita’s Italian Ice, where you’ll find smooth Italian ice, creamy frozen custard, and kid-approved layered Gelati creations. It’s the perfect sugar boost before the evening wind-down!
Alternative treat: Try Chick-fil-A’s seasonal milkshakes – bonus points if you catch the drive-thru cow mascot waving hello.
Evening: Relax & Recharge
Cascade Bay Waterpark
Wrap up the day at Eagan’s beloved waterpark featuring a lazy river, slides, and zero-depth entry pools. It’s affordable, safe, and super fun.
Rainy day alternative: Catch a family movie at Emagine Eagan, where comfy reclining seats = everyone’s happy.
Overnight Idea:
Stay & Play
Book a hotel with a pool – many of Eagan’s hotels offer shuttle service to the Minnesota Zoo, Twin Cities Premium Outlets and Mall of America. Then head to Enjoy Eagan’s Pick Your Package page to register your Eagan hotel stay to receive free tickets or gift cards to local attractions! It’s our way of saying thank you for staying in Eagan. More information can be found here.
Bonus Add-On for the Weekend:
- Sea Life at Mall of America
- LEGO Store + Nickelodeon Universe
- Vikings Museum at TCO Performance Center (great for older kids and sports fans)
Let Eagan be the home base for your next family adventure – packed with fun, free (or affordable!) activities that will have the kids asking, “Can we go back next weekend?”