Community Corner
Minnesota Staycations Abound
Those not planning on going over the river and through the woods will find lots to do locally.
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. 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 Hote 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.
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.
