Adventure Awaits: Summer Family Fun in Little Falls, MN

Your Next Family Staycation Destination

Whether you’re looking to burn off some energy at a park, get creative in an art studio, or meet a tiger face-to-face, Little Falls is packed with family-friendly fun. We’ve rounded up the best indoor and outdoor spots to ensure your next family outing is one for the scrapbooks!

Indoor Escapes

Perfect for rainy days or beating the heat, these local favorites offer entertainment for every age.

• Great River Arts: This isn’t just a gallery! While the rotating art displays are free and beautiful to browse, Great River Arts is a hub for community creativity. They offer youth art classes, theater camps, and family-friendly concerts year-round. It’s the perfect place for your little ones to find their inner Picasso.
• Bennington’s Entertainment Center: Nothing says family fun like a little friendly competition on the lanes. Bennington’s is open daily for bowling and great food.
  • Pro-Tip: Check out their Summer Fun Bowling Pass! When you register your kids online, they can enjoy two free games of bowling every single day all summer long (shoe rental not included).
• Little Falls Carnegie Library: Head to the dedicated kids’ floor for a world of books, toys, and movies. Beyond the stacks, the library hosts a packed calendar of game nights, story times, and teen programs to keep kids engaged.

Outdoor Adventures

Soak up the sun and explore the natural beauty of the Mississippi River valley.

• Pine Grove Zoo: A must-visit! Home to tigers, zebras, otters, and more, the zoo offers an intimate experience with amazing animals.
  • Get Involved: Look into their Animal Encounters or Safari Adventures. You can even “adopt” an animal, which comes with a plushie and an adoption certificate—a huge hit with the kids!
• Little Falls Area Recreation Complex (ARC): If the kids need to run, this is the place. With a zip line, monkey bars, and plenty of slides, it’s a premier playground destination.
  • Coming Soon: Get ready to cool off! The ARC is adding a brand-new splashpad scheduled to open in the summer of 2026.
• Disc Golf at Belle Prairie Park: Looking for a fun way to walk the trails? Head north to Belle Prairie County Park and try your hand at disc golf! Their beautiful 18-hole course winds through the woods and along the river, offering a great challenge for teens and a fun “nature treasure hunt” vibe for the younger kids.
• Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge: For families who love to explore, Crane Meadows is a hidden treasure. Wander through the beautiful wetlands and prairies on the accessible boardwalks and trails. It is a fantastic spot for birdwatching, photography, or a peaceful family hike where you might spot deer, cranes, or even a bald eagle!

Exciting Family Events

Little Falls is home to some incredible traditions that bring the whole community together. Be sure to mark your calendars for these highlights:

• The Charmed Ride: This annual, summer-long event is a fantastic opportunity for families to enjoy an adventure on two wheels! It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors while discovering local businesses and learning more about the community. Collect all the free charms along the route and you can enter for a chance to win a brand-new bike!
• The Morrison County Fair: Immerse yourself in four days of excitement! From the thrills of the Demolition Derby, Motocross, and Rodeo to the classic charm of the Gopher State Carnival, there is something for everyone. Don’t miss the 4-H livestock shows, the Animal Dress-up Contest, and delicious fair food.
• Green Fair Folk Festival: Swing by for a world of eco-friendly delights, fair trade treasures, and fresh seasonal goodies. Set to the rhythm of local tunes and artisan vibes, it’s a perfect family day featuring face painting galore and charming horse-drawn wagon rides.

For more family-friendly events, visit our community calendar!

Explore Even Further

The family fun doesn’t stop here! There is so much more to discover in Little Falls. Take a deeper dive into our community by exploring our vibrant local art scene, visiting our world-class museums, or taking a scenic stroll through our historic parks. No matter what your family is interested in, you’ll find plenty of ways to make lasting memories. Find more details at LittleFallsMN.com.

Exploring Little Falls

Start planning your visit today with the 2026 Travel Guide.

Post photos with #VisitLittleFallsMN and get a chance to be featured on our Instagram!