Minnesota Staycations Abound

For families who don’t want to hassle with long lines at airports or slick roads on the interstate, there’s plenty to do close by. Here are a few examples.

The Depot

The old Milwaukee Road Depot in Minneapolis has been transformed into a destination for family fun and includes a waterpark, skating rink and arcade.

Families can make a day trip of it or check in to either the attached Depot Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel or the Residence Inn Minneapolis at the Depot. The hotels also have party rooms available for private events.

Their Escape Family Waterpark Package is good on Friday and Saturday nights through Dec. 31 at rates as low as $154 and includes:

• Either one king or two queen beds in a deluxe guestroom
• Water park passes for four
• A large pizza and for sodas delivered to the room
• 20 tokens for the arcade
• Free parking
• Or, get a day pass for $20 per person.

For those who prefer to lace up a pair of ice skates, the Depot Ice Rink opens for the season on Thanksgiving day. Prices are $6 for kids and $8 for adults; skates are available for rent. Hotel guests receive a 25 percent discount.

Mall of America

For out of town guests, the Mall of America is always a must-see destination with attractions for the whole family:

Nickelodeon Universe is a huge attraction for kids. An unlimited ride wristband can be purchased for $29.95 at the park or for $25.95 when purchased online.

Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium boasts more than 10,000 underwater creatures, from sharks to seahorses. Children under 3 are admitted free and online buyers can save $5 off admission prices.

Theaters at MOA has 14 theaters, so viewing options abound. Adults can enjoy the VIP theater, with plush seats and cocktails. The 30 available D-Box Motion Seats in the 3D theater adds a full range of motion for an immersive movie-going experience.

At the House of Comedy, grownups in the group can take in a comedy show.

And of course, three floors of shopping should satisfy the most hard-core shopaholic. If that’s not enough, shoppers can make a side trip to IKEA just a block away.

And restaurants for every taste can be found on every floor.

IKEA

Speaking of IKEA, the Bloomington store offers free childcare. There are height and time restrictions at their Smaland play center, which includes a fun ball pit, but it’s a great opportunity to drop the kids off for some supervised play and then either do a little shopping or enjoy some downtime over a hot cup of coffee and a slice of apple cake in their restaurant. The restrictions:

• 45 minute time limit.
• Parent must remain in the store.
• Child must be between 37 and 54 inches in height.
• Child must be potty trained.

Waterpark of America

Connected to the Radisson Bloomington Hotel, the Waterpark of America features a towering waterslide, surfing simulator, and a meandering lazy river for tubing. Hotel and waterpark packages are available for those who wish to stay overnight, and tickets can be purchased online for either all-day, morning or after-4 p.m. admission. Prices vary depending on the day of the week.

Edinborough Park

Tucked into Edina at 77th and York, Edinborough Park is an indoor park with paths for wandering through lush greenery, a swimming pool, running track, fitness center, playground and play area, and a 250-seat amphitheater (September through May). Adventure Peak boasts one of the largest indoor play structures in the country. Visitors may purchase an Adventure Peak season pass ($380 for a family of 4 not living in the city of Edina) or 10-visit punch card ($50). Daily admission to the play park is $6 and parents are admitted free.