Within the last two years, Minnetonka mainstay Ridgedale Center completed several phases of renovations, and the shopping mall now boasts a number of family-friendly shops and activities. Here’s an itinerary to get you started for a super-hot or stormy day:
Noon: Lunch at Field Day by Good Earth. This “little sister” of Twin Cities classic Good Earth offers the same organic, vegetarian-friendly options as its more formal counterpart. Grab a bowl of organic mac and cheese, a grain bowl or fresh-pressed juice.
1 p.m. Burn some energy at the play area. Ridgedale’s recently remodeled indoor playground offers 6,000 square feet for young children to explore. There’s an “apple tree” climbing structure, building blocks and more. (Don’t forget your socks.)
2 p.m. Shop till you drop at a plethora of kid-friendly stores, like Babygap, the Disney Store and more.
3 p.m. Fuel up with a little sugar at Lolli & Pops. This confectionary offers gourmet chocolates, popcorn and treats that’ll appeal to everyone in your fam.
4 p.m. Take to the skies at iFly. Adults and older kids can suit up and jump into the state-of-the-art indoor wind tunnel—with plenty of coaching from certified instructors, of course.
5 p.m. Sit down for an early dinner at The Cheesecake Factory. (Let’s embrace the mall clichés all the way.)The Cheesecake Factory is one of several full-service restaurants at Ridgedale, perfectly suited to big groups and energetic kiddos.
