With Minnesota’s recent warm weather, it feels like summer is knocking at our doors! Here are some easy activities to enjoy with your little one as the days get longer and hotter.

Picnic in the Park

It’s probably no surprise that being outside is our first recommended summer activity. Who doesn’t want to feel the sunshine on their face, breathe in the fresh air, and take in the beauty of a post-snow melted landscape? While reading in the park or lounging by a lake doesn’t need much more instruction, we encourage you to be mindful of the sun and heat! Bringing along a pop up tent, wearing light and loose layers as well as sun hats, and seeking out shade are all great ways to protect you and baby.

Take a Scenic Walk

If you’re looking for a way to get moving in nature but not feeling up for a strenuous hike, consider taking a gentle walk through some of Minnesota’s plentiful public green spaces! We especially love the Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary, which are located in Minneapolis’s Wirth Park. This is a lovely spot to put baby in a carrier or sling and peruse the beautiful gardens without venturing too far from the city. Again, remember to pack sun protection and lots of fluids.

Wander a Museum

Minnesota and St. Paul are home to many incredible, family friendly museums. Though we often think of summer as a break from the school year, we don’t have to stop learning in fun and engaging ways! Walking around The Bakken Museum provides ample exposure to science and technology, while the Minnesota Children’s Museum is packed full with activities for kids of all ages. Even if baby isn’t interacting with exhibits, the visual stimulation is great for their developing mind. Plus, you get to enjoy some time in air conditioning – win, win!

What are you looking forward to doing with your baby this summer? Feel free to use our comment section to share your favorite family activities with the North Star Newborn community!