Drive-Thru the Zoo
What: Minnesota Zoo’s Beastly Boulevard
When: Through July 5
Where: Minnesota Zoo, 13000 Zoo Blvd., Apple Valley
Support the Minnesota Zoo with this limited-time drive-thru experience. Follow the Beastly Boulevard route and view some of your favorite animals at the zoo, all from the safety and comfort of your car. This is a unique experience that allows you to get out of your house, experience a classic summer activity, and see the zoo like you never have before. Buy your tickets online before this event ends on July 5.
Attend a Virtual Music Festival
What: Common Sound Virtual Music Festival
When: June 24-28
Where: Online
This year, Common Sound has partnered with the Twin Cities Film Fest to produce a compilation of recorded music video performances generously provided by incredible musicians. Tickets allow you to enjoy all five days of music, including two virtual concerts (one being kid-friendly). The festival benefits Minnesota Central Kitchen and Second Harvest Heartland. For more information, visit the Common Sound Music Festival website.
Celebrate Pride
What: Flip Phone Drag Brunches and more events
When: June 25-28
Where: Various locations
Celebrating Pride this year might look like attending a march on June 28 organized by the Twin Cities Coalition for Justice 4 Jamar. It might also look like watching a virtual talk hosted by the Minneapolis Institute of Art and the Tretter Transgender Oral History Project, featuring local activists and community leaders. It might also look like an online version of the Rainbow Run 5K. It might also look like Flip Phone‘s many drag brunches this weekend, from a free online Prince-themed drag show to the Pride in the Sky Rooftop Drag Brunch at CRAVE. It could look like all of these things and more (find a roundup here), because in spite of the pandemic, this year offers many opportunities to recognize Pride and support groups like Black Visions Collective.
Party with Surly Brewing
What: Patio Kick Off Party
When: Friday, June 26
Where: Uptown Tavern and Rooftop, 1400 Lagoon Ave., Minneapolis
With COVID-19 restrictions loosening, patio outings are returning, and Surly Brewing is sponsoring a Patio Kick-Off Party this Friday at Uptown Tavern and Rooftop. Start your summer with live music from Minnesota musician Mark Joseph. The event will also feature giveaways of Surly gear and concert tickets.
Get Fresh Fruits and Vegetables at the Farmers Market
What: Mill City Farmers Market
When: Saturday, June 27, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: 750 S. Second St., Minneapolis
Support local farmers while stocking up on fresh fruits and vegetables, with protocols in place to accommodate social distancing at this summer-favorite farmers’ market. The first hour (8-9 a.m.) is reserved for immunocompromised shoppers. Pre-order online for a quick, contactless pick-up, and be sure to check out the other farmers’ markets around the cities.
Attend Danger Boat Productions’ Race Talk
What: Let’s Get Uncomfortable: A Space to Talk About Race and Being Anti-Racist
When: Sunday, June 28, 1 p.m.
Where: MLK Park, 4055 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis
Danger Boat Productions and the Theater of Public Policy are hosting a space to talk about race and how to be anti-racist. This is part of a series they have been holding on Zoom, which moves outdoors this Sunday, with social distancing measures in place. The conversation will start in a large group before breaking into smaller groups. Learn more and reserve your spot here.
The Como Zoo Conservatory Is Now Open
What: Marjorie McNeely Conservatory has reopened
When: Daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: 1225 Estabrook Dr., St. Paul
Visit the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory on the Como Zoo grounds. As Minnesota’s restrictions ease up, the conservatory opens as a one-way walking path, where you can explore the beautiful gardens the park has to offer. While admission is free, visitors must make reservations ahead of time, for up to four people per group.
Explore Scientific History at the Bakken Museum
What: Bakken Museum Reopens
When: Saturdays and Sundays
Where: 3537 Zenith Ave. S., Minneapolis
The Bakken Museum has announced that it is reopening to the public every Saturday and Sunday, beginning June 20, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Explore Frankenstein’s lab, learn about Benjamin Franklin’s electric party, or wander two acres of beautiful gardens located on the shore of Lake Bde Maka Ska. Admission is $5 for ages 4 and up, free for ages 3 and under, and free for Bakken Museum Members. Guests must reserve them online prior to visiting, and the museum asks guests 2 years and older to wear masks and to maintain social distancing protocols.
