Celebrate Memorial Day Weekend 2025 in Minnesota and Wisconsin: Family and Pet-Friendly Activities
- Kari Lynn
- May 19
- 3 min read
Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, and both Minnesota and Wisconsin offer a plethora of activities to honor the holiday and enjoy the warmer weather. Whether you’re planning a family outing, looking for pet-friendly events, or seeking a mix of both, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of the weekend.
🇺🇸 Minnesota Memorial Day Weekend Highlights
🎨 Art-A-Whirl – Minneapolis
Experience the nation’s largest open artist studio tour in Northeast Minneapolis. Art-A-Whirl features free events across the city, including live music, interactive art, and family-friendly activities like Crush-A-Whirl at Turbo Tim’s, which offers car crushing, an artist market, and children’s activities.
🐦 Twin Cities Bird Festival – Brooklyn Park
Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the Twin Cities Bird Festival, featuring raptor meet-and-greets and family-friendly bird walks.
🌸 Peony Festival – Saint Paul
Celebrate spring blooms at the inaugural Peony Festival at Hmong Plaza in Saint Paul.
🏞️ Outdoor Adventures
Explore one of the eight state parks within an hour of the Twin Cities, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying nature with the whole family.
🇺🇸 Historic Fort Snelling – Memorial Day Observance
Visit Historic Fort Snelling for special Memorial Day programming, including historical reenactments, cannon firings, and interactive exhibits that honor the holiday’s significance.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Patios in Saint Paul
Many restaurants and cafes in Saint Paul offer dog-friendly patios, allowing you to dine with your furry friend. It’s a great way to relax and enjoy the city’s culinary scene together.
The Gnome Craft Pub https://g.co/kgs/nQQ1hu8
A-Side Public House https://asidepublichouse.com/
Iron Ranger https://www.ironrangermn.com/
🇺🇸 Wisconsin Memorial Day Weekend Highlights
🎉 Falls Memorial Fest – Menomonee Falls
On May 28th, downtown Menomonee Falls comes alive with live music on three stages, a lucky ducky derby, beer and wine garden, car show, and a 5K run/walk benefiting Operation Finally Home. The event honors local fallen service personnel with an opening ceremony.
🎡 Celebrate De Pere – Voyager Park
This annual festival includes a car show, food, live music, a fishing tournament, parade, kids’ activities, fireworks, and a carnival. It’s a family-friendly event that offers something for everyone.
🎨 Memorial Day Arts and Crafts Show – Eagle River
On May 25, downtown Eagle River hosts an arts and crafts show and sidewalk sales, perfect for families to explore local artisans and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
🐾 Dog Days at Lynden Sculpture Garden – Milwaukee
Bring your canine friends for an afternoon of romping in the garden. Picnicking is encouraged, making it a perfect outing for pet owners.
🏖️ Delton Oaks Resort – Wisconsin Dells
Enjoy a weekend getaway with free use of BBQ grills, beach access, a heated outdoor pool, and nightly campfires. Limited pet-friendly rooms are available, so call ahead to reserve.
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🗓️ Planning Tips
Check Event Schedules: Event times and dates can vary, so it’s advisable to check official websites or contact organizers for the most up-to-date information.
Pet Policies: If you’re bringing your pet, ensure the event or venue is pet-friendly and be mindful of leash laws and pet etiquette.
Accommodation: For overnight stays, especially in popular areas like the Wisconsin Dells, book accommodations in advance to secure pet-friendly options.
Weather Preparedness: Late May weather can be unpredictable. Bring appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and rain gear to stay comfortable throughout the weekend.
Whether you’re exploring art in Minneapolis, enjoying a festival in Wisconsin, or spending quality time outdoors with your family and pets, Memorial Day weekend in Minnesota and Wisconsin offers diverse activities to create lasting memories.
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