Spring is such a lovely word. In Minnesota, it’s also very unpredictable. You may have to bundle up, carry your kids’ coats, or stay inside altogether. Whatever the weather, here are some of my favorite (free!) things to do around the Willmar area in the spring!
1. Visit a local park.
Try one of dozens of city parks, or check out one of the local elementary school playgrounds, like we did here! This is at Kennedy Elementary School in Willmar. One tip: prioritize parks within walking distance, if you can. That way you can bundle up at home, instead of trying to do it in the car once you get there.
2. Go to Robbins Island!
This is truly a destination playground. We love the toddler section, because I don’t have to worry about my little one falling from high up, and she can explore pretty independently! Of course, the park has areas for kids of all ages. It is entirely fenced in, and I also like that the turf makes the park mud-free in the spring!
Check out my full post on the Robbins Island Playground for more details.
3. Visit Sibley State Park.
You will need a State Park Pass for this one, but you can actually check one out at your local library for free!
Sibley has always been a destination for us in the summer, with the wonderful Lake Andrew to swim and boat on. But there are so many beautiful trails all year round, especially around the Interpretive Center. Tip for the spring: find the paved trails. They won’t be all muddy, and they are stroller/bike friendly!
4. Play at the Willmar library.
When it’s too cold and windy, head inside! The library has lots of events, but our favorite thing to do is just explore their kids section. So many picture books, early readers, and childrens’ books available! They also have a puppet theater, doll house, puzzles, a little play supermarket, and so many other toys. We always end up leaving before my daughter has run out of things to play with!
5. Go to the Treehouse at Willmar AG Church.
Another great option if it’s a day to stay indoors! This is open almost every Tuesday and Thursday from 10am to noon, free of charge! Kids can run around and play on the playground, and moms can sit and chat at the picnic tables. There’s a big playground for older kids, a small one for littles, and a very baby-and-toddler friendly section right by the picnic tables.
Where do you think you’ll go next? And what did I miss? Let me know! And have a beautiful spring!
This is all really good to know! We’re new in the area and haven’t done much to enjoy Minnesota. We’ve been really busy over the last few months since moving in with renovations and cleaning and stuff, but now that we got our furniture cleaned, the last thing on our to-do list, it’s time to get outside! So even though we live here now, this is exactly what I’m looking for as I try to enjoy our new home!! Thank you for sharing this!