The northern state of Minnesota, commonly known for its harsh winters and chilly Lake Superior, offers a variety of activities for teen travelers. Whether you plan on visiting a small town such as Wykoff or a large city like Minneapolis, activities for teenagers abound. Regardless of your teen's personality and hobbies, there is sure to be an attraction that will peak your child's interest and entertain her during your trip.
Located in downtown Duluth, the Lake Superior Railroad Museum is a site to see for teens who love history and excitement. The museum features exhibits displaying different types of trains and train accessories, but also includes several life-size trains that kids can climb in and explore. The building that houses the museum was once a functioning train station, but now serves as a learning point for adventure lovers. In addition to displays and exhibits, the museum also has a large collection of books, maps and photos.
Lake Superior Railroad Museum
506 West Michigan St.
Duluth, MN 55802
218-727-8025
lsrm.org
Ed's Museum is one of the most unusual museums in Minnesota, sure to entice teens with a passion for the strange. Housed in Wykoff, Ed's is a collection of Edwin Krueger's personal belongings. Ed was a famed resident of the town, known for his messiness and his inability to get rid of anything. After his death in 1989, the women of Wykoff cleaned up the store Ed resided in and modified his home into a museum of junk. The townspeople removed over six truckloads of trash from Ed's home, including unopened Christmas gifts, stacks of magazines and even Ed's dead pet cat.
Ed's Museum
100 S. Gold Street
Wykoff, MN 55990
507-352-4205
Perhaps one of the most famous Minnesota attractions, the Bloomington Convention and Visitor's Bureau describes the Mall of America as an enormous shopping mall sporting over 520 stores, 50 restaurants and its own indoor amusement park. While the mall features shops and rides for children of all ages, teens will also enjoy the assortment of music and clothing stores available. The mall also has an aquarium, motor speedway and a comedy house. (See References 3.)
Mall of America
8100 24th Ave S
Bloomington, MN 55425
952-883-8800
mallofamerica.com
The Como Planetarium, located in Minneapolis, is the place to be for teens with a heart for astronomy. While regular tours are reserved for school and large personal groups, the planetarium offers teens and parents a chance to see a star-filled show one night each month. Lessons vary, but frequently include star-gazing using the newest and most advanced astronomical technology.
Como Planetarium
780 West Wheelock Parkway
St. Paul, MN 55117
651-293-5398
planetarium.spps.org/
