As the sun begins to set beneath the horizon and the sky transforms with burnt orange and pink hues, the Land of 10,000 Lakes offers countless enchanting possibilities for summer evening outings. Whether you’re looking for fun date night ideas or want to explore Minnesota in the evening hours, we have you covered. Read on to discover our top recommendations for an evening well spent in Minnesota.
Photo by Jason Boudreau-Landis
Marvel at the Fireflies Dancing Across the Night Sky
On select summer evenings, the Arboretum hosts Firefly Viewing Nights, a unique opportunity for the public to witness fireflies darting across the sky. The evening is enhanced with guided firefly-viewing hikes and presentations, promising a magical experience.
Visit a Pizza Farm
Check out a pizza farm to dine in a picturesque outdoor setting! Minnesota is home to several pizza farms across the state that embody the ambiance of a perfect summer evening. Try Alpha & Omega Farm in Princeton, Red Barn in Northfield, or Pleasant Grove in Waseca, and enjoy a memorable outing with fresh wood-fired pizza.
Courtesy of Alpha & Omega Farm
Watch a Drive-In Movie
Step back in time and watch your favorite movies at a drive-in theater! Starlite Drive-In is open every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday starting at 8 p.m. and showcases the newest releases. Sit back and enjoy the show!
Attend a “Music and Movies in the Parks” in Minneapolis
Enjoy watching your favorite bands and movies at a park in Minneapolis. Hosted at 30 different Minneapolis parks and concert venues from Memorial Day to Labor Day, this free entertainment night is sure to spice up your summer plans. Check out the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board to stay up to date on locations and times, and don’t forget your picnic blanket or foldout chair!
Stroll Through a Lavender Field
Admire a stunning array of purple flowers and breathe in their relaxing aroma at a lavender field. Only in bloom from mid-June through mid-August, this is a memorable seasonal experience that you don’t want to miss. For an early evening excursion, check out Lavender Barnyard in Dakota County, open until 6 p.m.
Courtesy of Lavender Barnyard
Watch the Sunset Over the Skyline
Minneapolis’s skyline at sunset is a view that everyone should witness. Head to Ridgeway Parkway Park or Deming Heights Park for stunning overlooks. Have an evening picnic, or just bask in the relaxing sunset hues.
Enjoy S’mores on the Patio
What better way to spend a summer evening than enjoying a perfectly cooked s’more on a patio? Head to Minneapolis Cider Co. to get free s’mores every Friday at 8 p.m. during the summer.
Courtesy of Minneapolis Cider Co.
