7 Minneapolis Group Activities That Are Perfect For Your Next Outing

Minneapolis Group Activities - Watch Baseball

Are you looking for fun Minneapolis group activities for an upcoming family getaway, friend weekend, or workplace bonding experience? The city is full of opportunities for fun and interesting outings and excursions.

Many of the best group activities in Minneapolis will even bring out a little friendly competition. Don’t plan your next group outing or team building event without first checking out this list of fun group activities Minneapolis residents and visitors can plan!

 

1) Book A Group Tour On Beautiful Lake Minnetonka

A visit to Lake Minnetonka is a highlight of any visit to the Twin Cities. Spanning nearly 15,000 acres, this sparkling oasis is home to one of the liveliest ecosystems in the Minneapolis area. Those lucky enough to get on the water enjoy access to 23 separated named bays and wildlife areas.

What’s the best way to explore Lake Minnetonka while in the Twin Cities? They say that the group that peddles together stays together! That’s why you need to consider a lake tour if you’re looking for a little inspiration for your upcoming outing!

PaddleTap Part Boats offers one of the best group activities in Minneapolis. How does boarding one of three unique party boats to spend the day with friends or family sound? Here’s what’s possible when you choose the #1 cruise company on Lake Minnetonka:

  • Depart from downtown Excelsior with plans to enjoy amazing local bars and restaurants before or after your cruise experience.

  • Enjoy a tiki-themed cruise boat that’s perfect if you’re looking for Minneapolis group activities for birthday parties or bachelorette parties.

  • Keep things sophisticated with our Pedal Tavern water cruise. Yes, you get to pedal to help power the boat across the lake during this experience!

  • Enjoy amazing views of the lake from a 100-square-foot upper deck aboard our LazyTap vessel.

With so many vessels and themes to choose from, PaddleTap is the best choice for fun group activities in the Minneapolis area! While our public cruises require no minimum for your group, we also provide small-group cruises that are suited for corporate events or private parties.

Stop wondering how you’ll plan a perfect day for friends or a fun team building activity! Book your spot with PaddleTap today for memories that will last a lifetime!

 

2) Tour The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden For A Fun Day With The Family

If you’re looking for a group activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, a visit to the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is perfect. Everyone can take in amazing views here at their preferred pace. There’s also no pressure about squeezing this stop into your busy itinerary because the garden is open to the public daily from 6 a.m. to midnight.

This 11-acre garden in the city’s Lowry Hill neighborhood holds the distinction of being the largest urban sculpture garden in the country. Visitors enjoy more than 40 pieces of public art. The garden also has restrooms and accessible walking paths.

The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is not just about the art; it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy a picnic or simply relax on the lush lawns. Kids can run around and explore, while adults can take a moment to appreciate the beauty surrounding them. It’s a wonderful way to spend quality time together as a family!

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to bring your camera! The vibrant sculptures and stunning landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for memorable family photos.

 

3) Choose Exciting Team Building Activities Focused On Communication Skills

As one of the nation’s largest commercial hubs, Minneapolis attracts its fair share of professionals looking for corporate team building activities. If you’re tasked with booking an activity for an entire team or department on behalf of your company, you’ll be happy to hear that there are several options for private team building events in Minneapolis that everyone will enjoy.

Here are some suggestions for team building activities in Minneapolis:

  • Escape rooms – Minneapolis has more than a dozen companies offering escape rooms. Popular ones include Mission Manor Escape Rooms, The Escape Game Minneapolis, Zero Hour Escape Rooms, and Trapped Puzzle Rooms. An escape room provides a fun and interactive way to flex communication muscles and work together using problem solving skills while cracking the codes on mysterious puzzle adventures.

  • Indoor rock climbing – This offers a great opportunity for team building while building trust and confidence. The go-to spot for indoor rock climbing around here is the Minneapolis Bouldering Project. Enjoy more than 40,000 square feet of bouldering in a state-of-the-art facility while team building.

  • Axe throwing – This activity works great for team bonding because there’s plenty of downtime between tosses for conversation. While it’s a fun activity that requires some skill and effort, you don’t need to be athletic or have any experience to participate. Tops spots in Minneapolis for some old-fashioned axe throwing include FlannelJax’s and Bad Axe Throwing.

  • Virtual reality – If you’re looking for a world class VR experience that you can do with the team, Sandbox VR in nearby Eden Prairie is the best around! This is a full-body VR experience that lets you interact with up to six group members at a time.

Pro Tip: When contacting businesses or venues offering team building activities, inquire about special options for private events. Many will offer exclusive rooms or VIP treatment for private team building events. You may even be able to get a group rate.

 

4) See A Game With The Crew

Welcome to the home of the Minnesota Vikings, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Minnesota Twins! Based on the season, you may be able to score tickets to a football game, basketball game, or baseball game at one of the city’s big venues. Look for home tickets at Target Field or U.S. Bank Stadium. There’s always college sports if you can’t snag pro tickets.

Attending a game with your crew is more than just watching sports; it’s about the electric atmosphere, the cheers of the crowd, and the shared excitement of rooting for your team. Don your favorite jerseys, grab some snacks, and enjoy the camaraderie that comes with being part of the action.

Pro Tip: Arrive early to soak in the pre-game festivities! Many venues offer fun activities, live music, and food vendors that can enhance your game day experience.

 

5) Go On A Culinary Adventure And Enjoy Fabulous Food With Some Cooking Classes With Your Besties

There’s nothing like bonding over a love of food! As a world-class city, Minneapolis offers its share of amazing restaurants and chefs. If you’re looking for a popular and convenient option right in the center of the city, Cooks of Crocus Hill comes highly recommended.

Students can pop in for a wide variety of classes and training options in a professional prep kitchen. When you come for a full meal experience, you get to prepare a portion of the food that will be served at the end. Cooks of Crocus Hill also serves amazing coffee, sandwiches, and dessert for walk-in visitors. If your experience awakens your love of cooking, there’s even a specialty cooking supply store.

If you’re looking specifically for a culinary experience that includes a wine tasting, this same company offers “wine dinner” events at a nearby location in nearby Edina, MN. Call ahead to ask about private parties if you’re coming with a group!

 

6) Eat Delicious Fair Food With Friends In North Loop

A great meal out is sometimes the best group activity. While your visit may not coincide with the world-famous Minnesota State Fair that takes place in August, you can still experience authentic fair food while visiting Minneapolis.

That’s because a spot called Graze Provisions offers year-round fair food from popular vendors. This industrial-style marketplace is filled with eclectic food stands and bars serving beer and cocktails. There’s even a dog-friendly rooftop patio where you can enjoy your food.

Gathering with friends at Graze Provisions is a delightful way to experience nostalgic flavors while creating new memories. From deep-fried treats to sweet desserts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, the lively atmosphere and unique food options make it a perfect spot to relax and catch up with your crew.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss out on trying the seasonal specialties! Graze Provisions often features limited-time dishes that capture the essence of fair food, so be sure to ask about any unique offerings during your visit.

 

7) Enjoy A Lively Outing At An Indoor Amusement Park For A Kid’s Birthday

Looking for fun group activities that both kids and adults can enjoy? There’s a popular spot called Zero Gravity Trampoline Park where you can pounce on massive trampolines, play laser tag, scale the indoor climbing wall, and more! This is a great option if you’re looking for a birthday party idea in Minneapolis that works regardless of the weather.

Zero Gravity Trampoline Park is not just for the kids; adults can join in on the fun too. It’s a fantastic way to unleash your inner child, plus, the laughter and excitement make for unforgettable birthday memories!

Pro Tip: Consider booking a party package in advance! This way, you can secure a dedicated space for your celebration and enjoy added perks like food and drinks, making the day even more special for the birthday star.

 

Fun Group Activities Are Everywhere In Minneapolis

Planning Minneapolis group fun or private team building events doesn’t have to be taxing! In a city with so much culture and natural beauty, finding an amazing way to make memories is easy.

PaddleTap is here to help you plan an unforgettable excursion on Lake Minnetonka that your group will never forget. Our team is here to help you choose the right cruise itinerary and work out every detail with no stress. Contact us to start planning today!

Duration
2 hours
Group Size
Up to 18

Private Tours

PaddleTap is proud to offer private tours on all of our party boats! These one-of-a-kind Tiki Boats, Origional Pedal Boat, or Two Level Party Pontoons that can be rented out on Excelsior Bay or Spring Park on Lake Minnetonka!

Take a peek at all our boating options and which locations they start from. You will truly love this experience for any Bachelorette, Birthday or Corporate outing!

All Private tours in 2026 will be a flat per boat pricing, and our per seat option is only open for shared/public options this year.

No minimum to reserve a private tour, you rent the entire boat!

Our lowest option will be on our Sunday Funday, if you want a deal....thats the day you want to set sail!

Duration
2 hours
Group Size
no limit

Public Tours

Looking to just get out on the water with some friends? Don't want to reserve a full boat? Or maybe its just a date night out on Lake Minnetonka? Don't worry our public tours are perfect for you!

Grab a seat on either our TikiTap or PaddlePub boats. These boats are the EXACT same boats as our private tours, they just allow you to reserve a few seats if you don't want to purchase all 10 tickets to reserve. Or just admit it, you like to mingle with other folks and have a good time.

Our public tours last 2 hour long, and cost roughly $55/seat, we do require at least 6 public seats to book to guarantee to go out, but that typically always fills so don't worry to much. They are all BYOB that comes with a private boat captain and bluetooth music. Typically private tours allow the guests to switch off who is playing the tunes, or the captain can have a play list.

Paddle or Cruise around Lake Minnetonka getting up and close with the big homes that the Lake has to offer. Experience bays that the larger charter boats cannot get into by booking one of our Public Tours.

What to know:

2 hours long (getting on/off boat)
Bluetooth music
BYOB
Bathroom on board (all boats)
Departs out of Back Channel Brewing in Spring Park and Public Docks in Excelsior MN
250-300 square feet of usable room
Holds 14-18 guests (depending on the boat you select)
Pricing: $55/Seat (most days)

Duration
2 hours
Group Size
Up to 14

Original PaddleBoat Cruise-Downtown Excelsior

Experience the Only Downtown Excelsior Paddle Boat Party!

PaddleTap is proud to offer private and public tours aboard the only powered party boat operating out of downtown Excelsior! Our one-of-a-kind Pedal Taverns on water can be rented for unforgettable cruises on Excelsior Bay. Optional Pedaling – 100% Fun

Don’t worry — pedaling is completely optional! Each of our PaddleTap boats is equipped with a 50 HP gas motor, so you can relax and cruise even if no one pedals.

Features of Our Party Boats:

1. Upgraded vessels with bathrooms on board
2. Spacious layout with 250 sq. ft. of usable space
3. Bluetooth sound system – play your favorite tunes
4. BYOB-friendly – bring your own beverages!
5. Holds up to 14 guests
6. 2-hour cruises
7. Private and public tour options

Departs conveniently from downtown Excelsior, just 20 minutes from Minneapolis

Perfect Pre- or Post-Cruise Options. Downtown Excelsior has plenty of local hot spots within walking distance!

1. Maynards
2. Excelsior Brewing
3. Haskell’s (liquor store & wine shop for last-minute drinks!)
4. Lago Tacos or Parlor burger – great for food before or after your cruise!

Bonus: See the Iconic Big Island

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from
$499
Duration
2 hours
Group Size
Up to 18

Large TikiTap-Spring Park Lake Minnetonka

Our 2 hour cruise on the TikiTap(yes, its a Tiki Themed Party Pontoon Boat and has ZERO pedals) boat offer the perfect scenic escape! It's our #1 Boat Tour for Bachelorette Parties!

This adventure is perfect for any corporate event, private birthday party or just for fun on a bachelorette or bachelor parties!

We have two Tiki Boats for 2026 and the largest single boat we offer and is 26 feet long and almost 12 feet wide! These party boats include comfortable bar stool seating around the custom tiki bar, and seating for maximum of 18 total guests (Large TikiTap) with plenty of walking room around both vessels.

Enjoy our one of a kind Tiki Themed bar to rest your beer, wine, or cocktails.

Do you have any worry about a bathroom? Don’t! this boat does come equipped with a full bathroom for you to use.

Worried about rain? Don’t! We have a large canopy that covers 70% of the TikiTap! If this boat is open, book it soon as this is for sure the first one to be reserved.

Things to Know:

2 hours long
Bluetooth music
BYOB
Bathroom on board
Departs out of Back Channel Brewing in Spring Park
300 square feet of usable room
Holds up to 18 guests per boat (depending if your booking the large or small TikiTap)
Pricing: Flat pricing for private cruises, and per person public tickets for smaller groups.

8 Reviews verify
from
$599
Duration
2 hours
Group Size
Up to 14

Small TikiTap-Excelsior Lake Minnetonka

Our 2 hour cruise on the TikiTap(yes, its a Tiki Themed Party Pontoon Boat and has ZERO pedals) boat offer the perfect scenic escape! It's our #1 Boat Tour for Bachelorette Parties!

This adventure is perfect for any corporate event, private birthday party or just for fun on a bachelorette or bachelor parties!

We have one Small Tiki Boat for 2026 and the largest single boat we offer and is 25 feet long and almost 10 feet wide! This party boat include comfortable bar stool seating around the custom tiki bar, and seating for maximum of 14 total guests (Small TikiTap) with plenty of walking room around both vessels.

Enjoy our one of a kind Tiki Themed bar to rest your beer, wine, or cocktails.

Do you have any worry about a bathroom? Don’t! this boat does come equipped with a full bathroom for you to use.

Worried about rain? Don’t! We have a large canopy that covers 70% of the TikiTap! If this boat is open, book it soon as this is for sure the first one to be reserved.

Things to Know:

2 hours long
Bluetooth music
BYOB
Bathroom on board
Departs out of Back Channel Brewing in Spring Park
250 square feet of usable room
Holds up to 14 guests per boat (depending if your booking the large or small TikiTap)
Pricing: Flat pricing for private cruises, and per person public tickets for smaller groups.

Duration
2 hours
Group Size
Up to 18

LazyTap Party Boat-Spring Park-Lake Minnetonka

PaddleTap’s #1 boat tour! For the people who like to take it easy on the lake! Our LazyTap Party Boat ride has your name written all over it. This is our only double deck party boat that is massive! PaddleTap offers one boat for 2026, so don't wait to book! This boat can hold up to 18 guests!

Both boats offers two levels and covers at least 300 of deck space on the main level with an additional 100 square feet on the upper deck! This boat has zero pedals and is the true lazy experience that can hold up to 18 total guests!

These boats offer a private party bar down the middle for you to load up with your own drinks and bench seating all the way down on both sides.

We have a large wide open space in the front where people can move around and take in the views, or sit in our comfy seating all around.

The LazyTap has a large 150 HSP motor, we can cover a fair amount of lake to enjoy everything that Lake Minnetonka offers! Our pickups are out of Back Channel Brewing, Lord Fletchers, Downtown Excelsior or Wayzata

What to know:

Private boat captain
2 hours long
Bluetooth music
BYOB
Bathroom on board
Departs out of Back Channel Brewing in Spring Park
400 square feet of usable room (two levels)
Holds up to 18 guests
Pricing: Flat per boat pricing for private cruises, and a per person for smaller/public groups
150 HSP Gas Motor
Zero Pedals (not even an option here, time to be Lazy!)

22 Reviews verify
from
$599
Duration
2 hours
Group Size
2 to 18

Gift Card

Looking to buy a tour for a gift? This is where that would happen!