Things To Do
in Mounds View
Mounds View is a quiet, family-friendly suburb in the Twin Cities metro, nestled along rolling wetlands and lakes. The city blends residential neighborhoods with parks, trails, and convenient access to Minneapolis and St. Paul. It offers a small-town feel within easy reach of big-city amenities, thanks to nearby shopping, dining, and cultural options.
Outdoor lovers will appreciate the abundance of green spaces and lake vistas that define the community.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk at the Mounds View Community Park, where you can enjoy the scenic beauty and lush greenery. Be sure to bring along a coffee from a local café to energize yourself as you stroll through the calm pathways. A visit to the playground will also offer a fun start for families with children.
After a leisurely morning, head to the nearby Mermaid Entertainment and fun center for a variety of indoor activities. You can enjoy bowling, arcade games, or even a serene time in their aquatic center. Grab lunch at their on-site eatery, where you can indulge in delicious burgers and salads.
As the sun sets, unwind at the Mounds View Civic Center with an evening event or movie night, often hosted on weekends. If there's no scheduled event, enjoy a peaceful picnic as twilight approaches. Cap off your day with a cozy meal at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Minnesota.
Kick off your day by exploring the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve where you can immerse yourself in nature. Grab your binoculars and go bird-watching or simply enjoy a quiet morning on one of the scenic trails. Take a moment to meditate by the serene lakeside while soaking in the tranquility.
For lunch, visit a local deli before heading to the nearby Mounds View Nature Preserve for a guided nature walk to learn about the area’s wildlife. Keep your camera ready to capture the diverse flora and fauna. This engaging experience will not only be fun but informative as well.
Return to your lodging to relax and freshen up before heading out for dinner at a nearby family-owned restaurant. Share your experiences from the day over a warm meal and consider trying local specialties. End your evening with a night stroll at the nearby park under the stars, reflecting on your adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week for one person | $60-90 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3.50-4.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $100-180 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $10-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm suburban feel with easy access to Minneapolis–Saint Paul
- Family-friendly parks and lakes
- Safe, well-kept neighborhoods
- Strong outdoor recreation opportunities
- Limited nightlife within Mounds View itself
- Commuting by car is common due to spread-out layout
- Weather can be extreme in winter
- Some services require a short drive to the Twin Cities
Places to Visit in Mounds View
Visit one of these nice places.
Scenic trail with wetlands, woodlands, and lakes ideal for nature photography.
Waterfront viewpoints and sunsets along the lakeshore.
Waterfront with boats, piers, and golden hour reflections.
Food in Mounds View
Mounds View Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A cheese-stuffed burger famous in Minneapolis; try it at iconic spots in the area.
Must-Try!
Crispy pan-fried or beer-battered walleye, a regional favorite near the lakes.
Creamy casserole with meat, vegetables, and a potato or tater-tot topping.
Norwegian flatbread served with butter, sugar, or savory toppings.
Creamy Minnesota soup featuring locally harvested wild rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market offering seasonal produce, baked goods, and prepared foods.
Downtown Minneapolis market with local farmers, chefs, and foods.
Multicultural market with food stalls and international small plates.
A hub for Hmong foods, fresh herbs, and traditional snacks in St. Paul.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite, friendly behavior; patient in lines; small talk is welcome but not forced.
Timeliness is valued; avoid loud conversations in quiet settings.
Safety
Tipping in Mounds View
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard US practice of 15-20% at restaurants; tip for takeout and delivery as well.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; mobile payments and contactless options common; carry cash for small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days begin, flowers bloom, and trails soften with spring rains; bring a light rain jacket.
Warm to hot days with long daylight; ideal for outdoor activities and lake visits.
Crisp air and colorful foliage; great for hiking and photography with golden light.
Cold, snowy landscapes; dress in layers and enjoy winter sports and cozy indoor venues.
Mounds View at Night
Hiking in Mounds View
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic trail through wetlands and woodlands connecting multiple lakes.
Urban trails around the lakes with viewpoints and wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Mounds View by plane.
Major gateway with flights worldwide; about 20-25 miles from Mounds View.
Public airport offering general aviation and short-haul flights, about 15-20 miles away.
General aviation airport and convenient for private flights, within 20-25 miles.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families attracted by schools and parks.
A mix of White residents with growing Somali, Hmong, Hispanic, and other immigrant communities in the metro area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A beloved Minnesota sport with local youth and adult leagues; watch or join local games.
Indoor and outdoor courts common; parks have pickup games and leagues.
Seasonal water sports and fishing on nearby lakes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mounds View.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Twin Cities restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for veggie burgers, veggie entrees, and farm-to-table plates; ask for modifications.