1. See what's new at the Science Museum of Minnesota

You can experience all the thrills of the universe without leaving the Science Museum with the new Virtual Reality Transporter (VRT). Their VRT combines state-of-the-art VR goggles with motion and effects to immerse you in an adventure of your choice. Hurtle through the cosmos, scuba dive into prehistoric seas or moonwalk with the astronauts of Apollo 11. Afterwards, don't miss dinosaurs and fossils, the human body exhibit and more.

Over at the Omnitheater, take a deep dive into remote caves around the world, both above and below the water. You'll be transported to France, Iceland, the Bahamas, Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula and southeastern Minnesota. Caves hold important secrets about our changing climate.

2. Get spooked at the Minnesota Zoo's Jack-o-Lantern Spectacular

Bring the whole family for a walk through the enchanted forest and take a peak at over 5,000 brightly lit pumpkins, each one with a unique carving.

And if you're not into the scary stuff, go during the day! Walk around and observe all types of animals. From penguins to tigers to bears, there are plenty of different species to get familiar with.

3. Solve clues and puzzles at The Escape Room and Trapped Puzzle Rooms

Work together to find clues that will lead you to your great escape. Get away with a heist, plan your prison break or accept a mission to Mars. The Escape Room provides one-of-a-kind experiences for you and your group to work together.

At Trapped Puzzle Rooms, you can choose from all sorts of themed rooms like Eternity Battle, Dragon's Keep, Witchcraft Alley, and more.

4. Take a trip through time at the Mill City Museum

Learn the story of a mighty river, a young city and how one product—flour—fueled the growth of Minneapolis. Witness baking demonstrations, sample fresh bread, observe a model mill explosion, get an amazing view of St. Anthony Falls and the Stone Arch Bridge, experience the Flour Tower, and while you’re there be sure to watch “Minneapolis in 19 Minutes Flat!”

5. Get inspired at the Children's Theater Company

Children's Theater Company (totally not just for children!) will educate, challenge, and inspire you. See their latest production, Zip Zap Circus' Moya, a show that celebrates the joy of sharing community together wand the energetic beat of South Africa pop music. Witness comic jugglers, unicycle dancers and an authentic gumboot dance.

6. Go on a hike fit for the whole family

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and get some fresh air on our family-friendly hiking trails! See 53-foot waterfall, Minnehaha Falls, stroll around a rose garden, get skyline views at Boom Island and more.

7. Do all things fall at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

Fall is the most popular time of year at the Arboretum. Bring the family and get immersed into the fall season. Witness the beauty of the red and gold leaves, pick up some apples from the AppleHouse, meet the Scarecrows in the Garden, or pack a picnic and enjoy lunch with a beautiful view. Reservations are required, so be sure to purchase your tickets ahead of time.

8. Get one of the best views in the city at the Foshay Observation Deck

Visit a Minneapolis landmark and learn the history of the Foshay Tower. Head on up to the 30th floor to....and then head further up to experience one of the most unique views in the city. With brilliant fall colors and a stunning picture of downtown, it's something you just can't pass up.

9. Go on a leaf peeping adventure

Walk, run, bike, or drive and marvel at some of the most beautiful fall foliage our city has to offer. From parks to waterfalls to lakes, check out where to find the best fall colors in Minneapolis.

10. Take a trip around the world at Midtown Global Market

Take your family and your taste buds on a trip around the world at the Midtown Global Market. Grab a kebab at Oasis Market and Deli, try Cambodian and Thai fusion at Sabbai, indulge in enchiladas from Taqueria Los Ocampo or enjoy a decolonized meal at the Indigenous Food Lab Market. Choose from over 40 different restaurants and groceries alongside jewelry and fashion from countries all over the world.

11. Get ready to play at the Minnesota Children's Museum

"Play is learning" according to the Minnesota Children's Museum. One of Fodor's Top 10 Best Children's Museums, it's the perfect place to spend the day with your family. Experience the power of play with three floors of fun!

12. Have a day of adventure at Valleyfair Amusement Park

The Minneapolis area’s go-to place for FUN! Featuring both indoor and outdoor family-friendly attractions, Valleyfair is the perfect place for you to play and celebrate! Enjoy the fall spooky season at with their all new Tricks and Treats event. Offering Halloween events for all ages, you can explore two different Lands. The Land of Tricks, promising playfully spooky, gross, and weird adventures. The Land of Treats, meanwhile, is filled with charming boulevards giving you all the nostalgia of a cozy fall festival.

13. Stroll through the Sculpture Garden or peruse the galleries at Walker Art Center

Admission to the Sculpture Garden is free! Walk the paths and enjoy a variety of outdoor sculptures, each with its own story. Or, head inside and explore the galleries of the Walker Art Center. Take advantage of free admission on Thursday nights. Be sure to get a timed ticket online prior to visiting.

14. Fly, spin, and drop at Nickelodeon Universe at the Mall of America

Get your adrenaline running on the thrilling rides at Nickelodeon Universe in the Mall of America. You can also meet your favorite Nickelodeon characters! While you’re at the Mall, don’t miss the SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium. Get a closer look at sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, jelly fish, seahorses and more. Get your hands dirty at the touch pools and walk through a 300-foot long underwater tunnel.

15. Learn about the history of electronic communication at the Pavec Museum

Ever wonder how things like radios, televisions and telephones came to be? Visit the Pavec Museum in St. Louis Park to learn about the development of technology we rely on each day. Explore over 12,000 square feet of antique radios, televisions and broadcast equipment.