Looking for a family-friendly trip that’s easy and full of fun? Woodbury, Minnesota is the perfect spot. As a gateway city in the eastern Twin Cities metro, Woodbury is a welcoming community with everything you need for an enjoyable, kid-approved adventure. Plan your trip today with these recommendations.
Splash Pad (Photo Credit: Roxy Nowicki)
Must-Visit Playgrounds
Start your visit at Madison’s Place, a playground designed for every child. It’s fully inclusive, so kids of all abilities can run, climb, spin and slide together. The space is thoughtfully designed with wheelchair-friendly surfaces and sensory-friendly areas that make it a welcoming environment for all.
Next door, the splash pad is a huge hit on hot days—totally free and open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. during the summer. Kids love the water features like dumping buckets and flower showers, and parents love that there are nearby restrooms and shaded areas to relax.
Lookout Ridge Indoor Playground (reopening fall 2025) is perfect for rainy days or winter trips, with 75 unique play elements—slides, climbing zones and toddler play areas—all inside Central Park. In fact, it's one of our Top Woodbury Attractions Opening in 2025.
Carver Lake Bike Park (Photo Credit: Woodbury Parks and Recreation)
Outdoor Adventures
Whether your family loves biking, hiking or just getting outside, Woodbury has you covered.
Carver Lake Bike Park is a favorite for young riders. It includes a tot track, pump track and even an advanced loop for older kids or teens ready for a challenge (wooden berms and rock gardens included!). It’s the kind of place where kids burn energy fast, and smiles come easy.
For something a little more laid-back, the Colby Lake Loop and Powers Lake Trail offer peaceful paths for walking, biking or stroller rides. You’ll pass by scenic views, quiet spots for a picnic and maybe even a turtle or two.
Starlight Cinema Outdoor Movies (Photo by: Destination: Woodbury)
Events Worth Planning Around
Woodbury’s event calendar has lots of free and family-focused activities, especially during the summer and early fall. If you're planning a visit, consider timing it with one of these:
- Starlight Cinema (July 31 & August 7) - Outdoor movies on a giant 40-foot screen, complete with pre-show activities like face painting, crafts, hula hoop contests and even animal encounters. Bring a blanket and settle in for a magical evening.
- Woodbury Days (August 22–24) - Think live music, a vibrant parade, games, food trucks and fireworks all in one weekend. It’s the kind of festival that brings out the community pride.
- One Woodbury (September 27) - Celebrate the city's diversity with global eats, cultural performances and interactive experiences for all ages. It’s a heartwarming way to connect with the community and introduce your kids to new cultures.
Where to Stay
The best part? Woodbury makes logistics easy. With nine hotels just off I-94 and I-494 (all with free parking!), you’ll be close to everything—parks, restaurants, shopping and all the fun. Whether you want a full-service stay or a budget-friendly option, there’s a hotel that fits your family’s travel style. Enjoy your stay!
