It’s summer in the Twin Cities and you’re itchin’ to get out and do something different. Boy, do we have the perfect summer guide for you! Grab a cold drink, find a cozy chair, and dive into four exciting and wildly popular things you need to add to your summer bucket list, now!

1) Paradise Charter Cruises and Minneapolis Queen

Whether you choose a private charter or a public cruise, a day on the water with your closest friends is in order. Paradise Charter Cruises and Minneapolis Queen is a unique summer experience that not only offers visitors an incredible view of Lake Minnetonka and the Mississippi River, but also gives them a historic glimpse of what life on the water was like in the early days at Excelsior and Wayzata. Choose a cruise with friends and family and spend time with them at happy hour, dinner, or brunch. Fine wine, good food, and a relaxing boat ride is a must for your bucket list this summer.

2) Mississippi River Paddle Share

Want to paddle your way through the summer sun? Consider the Mississippi River Paddle Share adventure, a National Park Service program that gives kayak lovers the opportunity to rent a kayak for up to three hours. This self-service program allows enthusiasts to choose from seven riverside stations throughout St. Paul and Hennepin County. For as little as $40, your entire family can make a day of it on the Mississippi. Reservations can be made onsite or online.

3) Minnehaha Regional Park

If boating isn’t your thing, try a picnic and hike in one of the most picturesque parks in the state. Minnehaha Regional Park is also one of Minneapolis’ oldest parks, boasting a 53-foot waterfall as it’s backdrop. This feature alone attracts over 800,000 visitors every year. A wading pool inside the park gives visitors an option to take a break and cool off. Explore the walking paths or take in 9 holes at the Minnehaha golf course. Minnehaha Regional Park is a true staycation spot in the Twin Cities.

4) Como Park Zoo & Conservatory

When is the last time you saw a gorilla? Or a giraffe? Have you ever taken your family to see a sea lion show? The Como Park Zoo is perfect for people of all ages. Not only is it an educational experience, the zoo is remarkably beautiful, too. Take a break from the monkey business to visit the conservatory and walk through the unique flower gardens and exotic plants. When you’re done, visit the water gardens, sunken gardens, and the butterfly conservatory. With so many different things to see, visitors have an array of options as they explore the grounds. This insanely affordable bucket list trip is free to visit. A donation is requested, but not required.

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So what will you do first? Summer isn’t over yet!
Add one or all of these adventures to your summer bucket list, now!