How to Explore Minneapolis During the Summer X Games
Looking for places to skateboard? The best spots to shop for the latest gear? Or just want to explore a different part of the city? If you have some down time in between X Games events, take advantage, and see what else Minneapolis has to offer!
Where to Skate in Minneapolis
You won't have to travel far to find a cool spot to skate, bike or just hang out. Minneapolis is full of parks to help you try out some new tricks and practice your best moves.
Outdoor Parks:
2500 W 57th St., Minneapolis
2000 2nd St. NE., Minneapolis
2728 39th Ave. S. Minneapolis
5001 Humboldt Ave. N., Minneapolis
1000 E. 14th St., Minneapolis
5531 39th Ave. S., Minneapolis
Juxtaposition Skate-able Art Plaza (coming summer 2019)
2007 N Emerson Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55411
Check out a full list of Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Centers.
Skate Parks:
3rd Lair
Two vast indoor skateparks for all skateboarding and in-line skill levels, including an outdoor skate area.
850 Florida Ave. S., Golden Valley
Familia Headquarters Indoor Skatepark & Shop
Give Familia’s HQ warehouse indoor skatepark a try and browse their products while you’re at it.
835 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis
Front Skatepark
Newly renovated skatepark in St. Paul.
485 Stinson Ave W., Saint Paul
Shopping
Before heading out to see all the X Games action make sure you’re up to date with the latest gear. Minneapolis has plenty of options for a new board, a quick tune-up, or if you’re just looking for a fun place to shop.
Electric Fetus
Probably one of the most creative store names we’ve ever heard, The Electric Fetus is Minneapolis’ most cherished place to buy record. With more than 50 years in the business it has become a music landmark in the city and has an amazingly wide selection of records to choose from. This place is so popular, Prince was even seen shopping here in the past.
Familia
This uptown Minneapolis store is best known for its great selection of shoes, but also has plenty of options for other apparel and of course skateboards, with a very knowledgeable staff to help you find exactly what you are looking for. Check out their indoor skate park and shop.
Alternative Bike and Board Shop
This family-owned store prides itself on fast bike repairs, but is also a great spot for those into skateboarding as well. It is considered a pioneer in the skateboarding scene, having originally started 2 skate parks in the area and is one of the original skateboarding shops in Minnesota.
Cal Surf
Despite the name this place is actually a skateboarder’s haven. It has a great selection of skate gear, and a staff that will help you build and adjust boards on the spot.
Fifth Element
This independent retail store is your local spot for hip hop merchandise, including CDs, vinyl, art supplies, clothing, DVDs, specialty items, and more. It’s also the official Rhymesayers store, which is a local record label, featuring hip hop duo Atmosphere and X Games artist Brother Ali.
Arcades, Bowling and Gaming
Up-Down
Revisit your childhood at this retro arcade bar that features more than 50 arcade games from the '80s and 90s. And that's just the start of the types of gaming you'll find here.
Bryant Lake Bowl
The best combination of food and bowling you'll find in Minneapolis.
Tilt Pinball Bar
Over 20 classic and current pinball machines (check out the lineup), an artisan hot dog menu and a wide selection of beer/cocktails to go around.
The Escape Game
Choose from four different room themes and see if you can complete the mission before time runs out.
Other Events in the Area
Minneapolis Fringe Fest, August 1st-11th, 2019
The Minnesota Fringe Festival is a wild ride across the performing arts. Minnesota Fringe is one of the oldest and largest fringe festivals in the country, celebrating its 26th year in 2019. Witness one of a kind acts that are debuted for the first time during the festival.
Uptown Art Fair, August 2nd-4th, 2019
The award winning Uptown Art Fair hosts over 350 professional fine artists from around the world whose work spans 12 different media including sculpture, painting, ceramic, jewelry, mixed media, and more. If you find yourself hungry or thirsty throughout the fair 25 different food vendors and several beer gardens are available to take care of those cravings.
Powderhorn Art Fair, August 3rd-4th, 2019
The best regionally juried art fair for nearly three decades takes place right in South Minneapolis in picture-perfect Powderhorn Park. Shop hundreds of local and regional artists on the serene Powderhorn Lake, taste foods from local food trucks and enjoy exploring the Powderhorn community.
Open Streets Northeast, August 4th, 2019
This free event temporarily closes off neighborhood streets and opens them up for people, walking, biking and even skating to bring together community groups and local businesses. Residents and visitors explore their neighborhood in a safe, fun, family-friendly environment.
