Blaine is a city in Anoka County, Minnesota, United States. With a population of over 60,000 residents, it’s one of Minnesota’s largest cities. Located just 18 miles north of Minneapolis, Blaine provides visitors with a small-town charm while still being close to the Twin Cities metro area’s amenities and attractions.
Whether you’re a local looking for a new adventure close to home or a tourist exploring Minnesota for the first time, Blaine has something for everyone. From wildlife parks and preserves to amusement centers, Blaine’s family-friendly attractions promise fun for all ages. Sports fans can catch a game at the National Sports Center, while shoppers can spend an afternoon browsing unique boutiques and stores.
When you’re ready for a bite, Blaine’s eclectic mix of restaurants features cuisine from all over the world. And at the end of the day, comfortable hotels provide the perfect place to rest your head before another packed day experiencing Blaine’s can’t-miss activities.
With over 3,000 acres spanning across grasslands, woodlands and wetlands, Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve provides the perfect opportunity to spot local wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for white-tailed deer, red foxes, coyotes and more than 200 bird species as you explore the park’s 22 miles of trails.
Bring your binoculars and stop by one of the park’s observation decks – you never know what animals you might see. Don’t miss the chance to rent kayaks, canoes and paddleboards from the park’s Livery if you want to get out on the lakes themselves. With lush forests and scenic waterscapes, the park’s diverse ecosystems make nature watching a treat.
1.Go-Kart at Raceway Park
With triple-deck tracks spanning over 100,000 square feet, Raceway Park is one of the largest indoor go-karting facilities in the country. The multi-elevated twists, turns and straightaways provide exciting rollercoaster-like thrills for both beginning and experienced racers.
Race against friends or take part in one of the park’s Grand Prix tournaments. Raceway Park’s famous “corkscrew” landmarks add an extra challenge for drivers to maneuver their go-karts through the winding track. Whether you’re looking to set a new personal speed record or simply enjoy cruising with the family, Raceway Park offers high-speed entertainment for all ages.
2.Shop ‘til You Drop at Northtown Mall
As the largest shopping center in Northern Anoka County, Northtown Mall has over 75 stores ranging from nationally recognized brands like Old Navy and JC Penney to specialty retailers. Fashionistas will love browsing trendy clothes and accessories, while techies can check out the latest gadgets and electronics.
If you need a break from shopping, catch a movie at the mall’s 10-screen cinema or refuel with a meal at the food court. Younger kids can expend some energy at the indoor play area while parents take a breather. Open extended hours for added convenience, Northtown Mall provides one-stop shopping and entertainment for the whole family.
3.Tee Off at Victory Links Golf Course
Boasting scenic views and meticulously manicured greens, Victory Links Golf Course offers golfers 18 challenging holes across gently rolling terrain. Designed by famous golf architects Richard Mandell and Carter Morrish, the par-72 course provides strategic bunkering, undulated fairways, large greens, and risk-reward opportunities.
Carts, clubs, balls and other equipment rentals are available in the pro shop. Unleash spectacular drives at the double-decker driving range or practice your short game on the putting and chipping greens. A full-service clubhouse features locker rooms, event facilities and Mulligans Bar & Grill where you can enjoy a delicious meal after you play a round or two.
4.Discover Hands-On Science at Exploration Place
With over 12,000 square feet of interactive exhibits, Exploration Place brings science, technology and art to life for visitors of all ages. Get up close with live animals, turn up the power on a giant Van de Graaff generator, and try your hand at real science experiments like growing crystals or designing robots.
Special rotating exhibits cover topics ranging from the science behind Pixar movies to the animal kingdom. The Maker Studio provides a space for creative visitors to build their own innovations using high- and low-tech tools and materials during Open Maker sessions. With new exhibits debuting all the time, there’s always something new discover on a return visit too.
5.Catch a Show at MEDA Amphitheater
As Anoka County’s newest outdoor concert venue, MEDA Amphitheater provides an intimate and modern setting for live musical acts from May through September. Bring your own lawn chair or blanket and set up on the sloping lawn that faces the sleek covered stage nestled along Rush Creek’s edge.
Grab food from on-site food trucks and concessions before the show starts.MEDAAmphitheater has hosted national touring musicians like The Beach Boys and up-and-coming local artists. From rock and pop to country and blues, the 3,500-person capacity venue showcases diverse musical talent under the stars all summer long.
6.Test Your Nerves at Scream Town
If you’re brave enough, pay a visit to Scream Town – one of the nation’s top-rated and longest-running haunted attractions. Open fall weekends, this terrifying amusement park contains an entire “town” of haunted houses, each with different frightening themes from an abandoned prison to a creepy carnival.
Actors in ghoulish costumes jump out from the fog and shadows to give you a fright along the way. In between haunts, fuel up on carnival fare, play terrifying games or snap silly selfies with creepy characters. Those susceptible to nervous fits of screaming may want to steer clear. But thrill-seekers looking for a truly terrifying haunted house will want to stop by – if they dare.
7.Splash the Day Away at Aqua Adventures Aquatic Park
On hot summer days, cool off with a visit to Aqua Adventures Aquatic Park. This family-friendly waterpark located on Lake Laura offers splashing fun for swimmers of all ages and experience levels. Test your courage climbing three stories up before plunging down one of the Hydro Racer water slides.
Race down the spiraling Black Snake Tunnels, float along a lazy river, or make waves in the paddleboarding and surfing simulator. Little ones will love Raindrop Reef, an interactive splash pad zone specifically designed for young children. When you need a break from the water, sunbathe on the sand beach, play a round of beach volleyball or grab a snack at the concessions stand. With lifeguards stationed across the well-maintained facilities, Aqua Adventures provides safe, affordable water fun all season long.
8.Experience Hands-On History at Anoka County History Center
Discover centuries of local history with a visit to the Anoka County History Center. Housed in a historic 1939 WPA school building listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the museum brings regional heritage to life through interactive exhibits and educational programs.
Inside find a 1910 one-room schoolhouse filled with authentic furnishings and supplies used during that era. Other exhibit galleries showcase Native American tools and artifacts, vintage toys and clothing, scale models of local homes and general stores, and rotating displays that dive deeper into various facets of the county’s past. Costumed interpreters, hands-on activities for kids and seasonal events make the history center an intriguing look back in time for all ages.
9.Catch Some Air at AirMaxx Trampoline Park
For high-energy entertainment, check out AirMaxx Trampoline Park. As Minnesota’s largest indoor trampoline playground, AirMaxx offers wall-to-wall aerial adventures across 25,000 square feet. See how many backflips you can perform on the trampolines or play a competitive game of 3D dodgeball.
Little jumpers get their own special courts sized just for them. When you need a break from bouncing, try your hand at trampoline basketball or test your balance navigating the low-to-the-ground ninja warrior obstacle course. Waivers are required for all jumpers. With state-of-the-art facilities, you can expect a safe and unforgettable time getting airborne at Airmaxx.
10.Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at MN Candy Company
MN Candy Company brings the sweetest experience in Minnesota straight to your taste buds. As a working candy factory, visitors can watch as gummy candies, brittles, caramels, chocolates and other sugar-filled confections are being made.
Take self-guided factory tours on weekdays or special weekend tours to see first-hand how old fashioned copper kettles and machinery operate as delectable candies are produced. Then stop by the expansive retail store brimming with thousands of candy options ranging from nostalgic favorites to exotic sweets from around the world.
Fill up bags of treats for loved ones or create customized gift boxes and baskets for special occasions. With free samples always available, MN Candy Company offers a behind-the-scenes look at candy-making mastery.
11.Relax at Giant Oaks Waterpark
Cool down and unwind with a visit to Giant Oaks Waterpark nestled within Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve. This family-friendly waterpark spans three acres packed with slides, pools, sprayers and places to lounge.
Zip down 450-foot slides like the Giant Twisting Tube, plunge straight down the Aqua Plunge, or meander through splashing fun zones like Little Squirts Lagoon, Overlook Bay and Critter Creek. When you’re done swimming, soothe sore muscles in the bubbling hot tub, stretch out under shady cabanas or grab a tasty bite from concessions.
Combined with beach access to the park’s pristine lakefronts, Giant Oaks Waterpark provides full-service aquatic amenities the whole family will enjoy.
Conclusion
With an array of attractions ranging from amusement thrills and outdoor adventure to educational experiences and historic landmarks, Blaine truly offers something for everyone. Exciting activities for families, groups and solo travelers ensure a visit full of fun and lasting memories.
Blaine’s prime location less than 20 miles outside the Twin Cities also provides easy access and convenience for tourists and locals alike. Whether you spend the day exploring vibrant wildlife at nature preserves, embrace your competitive spirit at the go-kart track or make a splash at one of Blaine’s world-class waterparks, one thing is for sure – adventure awaits in this Minnesota destination town.