Planning a family reunion that appeals to everyone from grandparents to toddlers can be challenging. The Twin Cities area offers the perfect backdrop for gatherings of all sizes with its blend of urban excitement and natural beauty. Here's your comprehensive guide to creating lasting memories at your Minneapolis-Saint Paul family reunion.
Best Seasons for Twin Cities Family Reunions
Minnesota's is wonderful in every season. It just depends on the kind of activities you want to enjoy while you are visiting. Each season offers a variety of unique experiences. Here are some of the things you can look forward to in no matter when you chose to visit.
Summer (June-August): Prime time for outdoor activities with temperatures between 70-85°F. Take advantage of lake activities, outdoor concerts, and Minnesota Twins games.
Fall (September-October): Enjoy stunning foliage, comfortable temperatures, and fewer tourists. Perfect for orchard visits and scenic drives.
Winter (December-February): Embrace the snow with ice skating, sledding, and cozy indoor gatherings. The Mall of America offers weather-proof entertainment.
Spring (April-May): Experience renewal with blooming parks and early water activities as temperatures warm to the 50-70°F range.
Top Activities for Multi-generational Family Reunions
We all want to provide activities that cater to every member of the family. That is one of the greatest things about having a reunion in the Minneapolis area. We have so many wonderful things to do for everyone on your list. Here are some of our many options.
Attend a Professional Sports Event
Minneapolis boasts teams in every major league:
• Minnesota Vikings at the impressive U.S. Bank Stadium
• Minnesota Twins baseball at Target Field
• Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA) and Minnesota Lynx (WNBA) at Target Center
Group tickets are available with advance planning, and these venues offer accessible seating for family members with mobility concerns.
Explore Water Activities
The "Land of 10,000 Lakes" lives up to its name with water-based fun:
• Cedar Lake East Beach: A peaceful urban oasis perfect for swimming and sunbathing
• Lake Nokomis: Offers sailing, swimming, and picnic areas
• Fort Snelling State Park: Combines beach access with historical exploration
• Indoor options: Great Wolf Lodge and Venetian Waterpark provide year-round aquatic fun regardless of weather
Shopping Adventures
The Twin Cities' retail scene offers something for everyone:
• Mall of America: Beyond shopping, enjoy Nickelodeon Universe theme park, SEA LIFE aquarium, and dozens of dining options
• North Loop: Browse boutique shops with unique local items
• Nicollet Mall: Experience downtown shopping with historical architecture
Golf Outings for All Skill Levels
You know what they say, the family that golfs together stays together… Well maybe "they" don't actually say that, but Minnesota has some wonderful options for golf. We have several public courses that are fabulous. So bring your clubs and gather multiple generations together on a local course. Here are some of our favorites:
• Theodore Wirth Golf Club: Historic course with 18-hole and 9-hole options
• Columbia Golf Course: Beginner-friendly with spectacular city views
• Disc golf alternatives: Try Bassett Creek Park or Kenwood Park for this accessible variation
MINNēSTAY Accommodations for Large Family Groups
Choosing the right accommodation is crucial for a successful family reunion. Here is a list of MINNēSTAY properties that can accommodate groups larger than 10. These properties are unique and have all the amenities you will need to host your family reunion.
• Dean Parkway Estate: This stunning 5,000 square foot, 6 bedroom estate is located on the beautiful Dean Parkway in Minneapolis. Located directly next to the Midtown Greenway, a 5.7-mile trail that follows the path of an abandoned route of the Milwaukee Road railway.
• Enchanted Pines: An amazing oasis located in Sauk Rapids, this stunning manor is perfectly suited to host the whole family for any kind of getaway or celebration. Spacious, elegant, and filled with thoughtful amenities, Enchanted Pines boasts sleeping arrangements for up to 19 guests, and plenty of room to host your special occasion.
• Rum River Resort: Located on the Anoka Nature Preserve, just a stone's throw from Rum River, this one-acre wooded hideaway is a perfect landing spot for a company retreat or family gathering. Rum River Resort has 9 beds: 3 King, 3 Queen, and 3 Full Futons.
• Maple Lake Chalet: Maple Lake Chalet, a unique custom lake home in Buffalo Minnesota, will surpass your vacation dreams! With sleeping arrangements for 12, this home can fit the whole family.
Family Reunion Meal Planning
Food brings families together. Every MINNēSTAY Vacation Home has a fully stocked kitchen, but if you are not really in the mood to cook every night of your family gathering you may want to consider these options:
• Catering services: Local favorites include Brasa Premium Rotisserie and Chowgirls Catering
• Group-friendly restaurants: Red Cow, Pizzeria Lola, and Sea Salt Eatery welcome large parties
• DIY options: Our properties' kitchens allow for home-cooked family favorites
Planning Timeline for Your Twin Cities Family Reunion
For a stress-free experience, for everyone attending your family reunion. We have some great tips.
12 months before: Select dates and book accommodation
6-9 months before: Plan major activities and make reservations
3-6 months before: Arrange transportation and begin meal planning
1-2 months before: Finalize details and create itineraries for family members
Start Planning Your Perfect Family Reunion Today
Let MINNēSTAY help you plan your perfect family reunion in the Twin Cities. We offer endless possibilities for creating meaningful connections across generations. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, Minneapolis-Saint Paul provides the perfect backdrop for your next family gathering.
Browse our family-friendly rentals or contact our dedicated family reunion planning team at 612-216-5511 to start creating memories that will last a lifetime.