Just 15 minutes outside the Twin Cities, Inver Grove Heights offers so much to experience. Here are the top five things to do in Inver Grove Heights during the summer:
- Take Advantage of Patio Season
Inver Grove Heights is home to must-experience patios with unique vibes that’ll keep you coming back. Mississippi Pub boasts stunning Mississippi River views, great food, and legendary Bloody Marys. Head a bit farther down the river to Overboard Bar & Grill, where you’ll find outdoor bocce ball courts, more scenic river views, ice-cold drinks, and delicious food—don’t miss the famous Coney dogs!
Be sure to check out the patio at Jersey’s Bar & Grill, featuring live music, cornhole boards, a dog-friendly setup, and a cool outdoor bar made from a shipping container. Over on the other side of town, enjoy locally crafted beers at Inver Grove Brewing, where rotating specialty drinks, cocktails, and creative food keep things fresh. And don’t miss B-52 Burgers & Brew, offering a rooftop patio with panoramic views, excellent service, and daily food and drink specials—all within walking distance of three local hotels.
Immerse yourself in nature on the scenic trails of Inver Grove Heights. For breathtaking views of the Mississippi River, head to Swing Bridge Park and walk out onto the pier. It also connects to the Mississippi River Greenway—a 28-mile stretch of paved trail perfect for walking or biking, taking you as far as South St. Paul or Hastings.
Along the way, stop at Pine Bend Scientific and Natural Area to enjoy bluff-top views, a goat prairie, and incredible bird-watching. These hidden gems are just minutes south of the metro.
Minnesota summers can get hot—but the fun doesn’t stop indoors! Cool off with exciting activities like mini golf, arcade games, escape rooms, and even pop-up haunted houses at Nowhere Entertainment. Head to Drakula’s for bowling, darts, sand volleyball, and pool. And don’t miss a local favorite: PerpleBunny’s Axe House. Never thrown an axe before? No worries—an Axe Master will help you hit the bullseye!
- Peruse Gertens Garden Center
No visit to Inver Grove Heights is complete without a stop at Gertens, Minnesota’s destination garden center. Whether you’re into gardening, grilling, seasonal decor, or gifts, Gertens is a one-stop shop for all things home and outdoors.
Summer is always buzzing with events in Inver Grove Heights! Love BINGO? Enjoy classic bingo, Vingo, or purse bingo at various local spots. Prefer music and meat raffles? Many venues offer live performances, Midwest-style meat raffles, and more. Check our events calendar to stay in the loop on all the fun happening this season!
Like what you see? Make a trip out of it! Book your stay, explore our top picks, and enjoy everything this welcoming destination has to offer.
