October 1

Plan the Perfect MEA Weekend Getaway in Roseville, Minnesota

Looking for fun things to do during MEA weekend in Minnesota? Whether you're planning a family staycation or looking for a quick fall getaway, Roseville is a great place to spend a few days exploring, playing and making memories. Located just minutes from both Minneapolis and St. Paul, Roseville offers plenty of family-friendly activities, indoor entertainment, outdoor adventures and convenient hotel options. From interactive games and indoor playgrounds to beautiful fall walks and local restaurants, there's something for everyone to enjoy. This MEA weekend, skip the long road trip and discover all the fun waiting right here in Roseville!

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Where to Eat
Hotels
FAQs

Day 1: Kick Off MEA Weekend with Active Fun

Start your MEA weekend with some friendly competition and plenty of opportunities to burn off energy. Roseville has plenty of indoor activities for kids and families, making it an especially good destination if the October weather doesn't cooperate.

Get Moving at Activate

Ready for an adventure? At Activate, you're part of the game! This interactive gaming experience combines physical challenges, puzzles and technology in a series of rooms where players work together to complete challenges. It's a fun way for older kids, teens and parents to get moving while testing their teamwork and problem-solving skills.

Let the Kids Play at Kids Empire

If you have younger kids who need to get some energy out, Kids Empire is a great stop. This indoor playground features a multi-level play structure, slides and plenty of room for little adventurers to explore. The perfect option for families looking for indoor activities in Roseville, especially on a chilly or rainy fall day.

Try Something New at Smash Park

Looking for a little bit of everything? Smash Park offers a mix of activities, including pickleball, arcade games, duckpin bowling, and axe throwing, along with food, drinks, and plenty of space to hang out. It's a great choice for families with kids of different ages who want to find something everyone can enjoy.

Make It a Game Night at Gamezenter

For families who love board games, Gamezenter is a must-visit. Browse the retail store for a new game, grab some drinks and snacks, then crack open your game to play in the expansive open gaming area. With games for all ages and interests, it's a fun way to spend an afternoon together and discover a new family favorite.

Pictured: Activate
Credit: Activate

Day 2: Explore Roseville's Fall Colors and History

October is a beautiful time to get outside in Minnesota, and Roseville has many parks, trails, and outdoor attractions where you can enjoy the changing leaves.

Take a Fall Walk Through Central Park

Roseville's Central Park is a wonderful place to enjoy a little fresh air. Spanning more than 225 acres of connected parkland, it features paved trails, open green spaces and the Muriel Sahlin Arboretum. Take a leisurely walk, enjoy the fall scenery or let the kids burn off some energy at the inclusive playground.

Explore Harriet Alexander Nature Center

For a little nature-inspired adventure, head to Harriet Alexander Nature Center. This 52-acre nature area features boardwalks, trails and an interpretive center that showcases interactive wildlife displays, live animal ambassadors, and a play campsite designed for imaginative learning. It's a great place for kids to explore, spot wildlife, and enjoy the outdoors.

Learn About Local History at Gibbs Farm

At Gibbs Farm, costumed interpreters provide a glimpse into nineteenth century pioneer and Dakota daily life. A combination tour of the Gibbs Farmhouse, one-room schoolhouse, Dakota bark lodge, and tipi is offered every hour on the hour. (Open Saturdays from 10:00 AM-2:00 PM. The last day of public hours for 2026 is Saturday, October 17th.)

Pictured: Harriet Alexander Nature Center

Day 3: Visit Roseville's Indoor Attractions

If the weather turns cold, there's still plenty to do. Spend some time at one of Roseville's indoor attractions or head over to Rosedale Center for an afternoon of shopping and entertainment.

Test Your Luck at Neko Clawww

Head to Nekko Clawww, where you can test your skills at a variety of Japense-style claw machines and try your luck at winning fun prizes. It’s a playful stop for kids, families and anyone who enjoys a little challenge. No one leaves empty-handed—ask any employee to fluff the machine so you have a fair shot at winning something fun!

Unleash Your Artistic Side at Color Me Mine

Tap into your inner artist at Color Me Mine by picking a piece of pottery from 100s of options and painting it. Each piece turns into a unique creation. Finished pieces are left to be glazed and fired and are ready for pick up in 7-10 days.

Practice Your Swing at Par365

Seasoned golfers and amateurs alike will enjoy Par365. Refine your swing on simulated real-life courses and mini golf or bring the fun by incorporating golf into games like darts and skee ball. Once you've worked up an appetite, you can enjoy their selection of appetizers, flatbreads, and drinks.

Pictured: Neko Clawww

Retail Therapy and More at Rosedale Center

It's time to pick up your winter essentials and start checking off your holiday shopping list. Rosedale Center has a little something for everyone. Browse the curated selection of local makers' products at Rose & Loon. Kids will love exploring Legacy Toys, Games by James, and Dick's Sporting Goods.

Once you've shopped 'til you dropped, it's time to play. Rosedale offers entertainment for all ages:

AMC Rosedale 14: Catch the latest box office hits together.

The Game Show Studio: Become a contestant in games like Name that Price, Survey Showdown, and Wheel of Wonder.

BRKTHROUGH: 40+ immersive challenge rooms combining physical, mental, and skill-based play.

Build-a-Bear Workshop: Bring imagination to life by creating a new stuffed friend.

Pictured: Dick's Sporting Goods

Where to Eat During Your MEA Weekend Getaway

All that exploring is bound to work up an appetite! Fortunately, Roseville has plenty of family-friendly restaurants to choose from, whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a sit-down dinner.

Here are a few places to add to your itinerary:
Punch Pizza: Neapolitan-style pizza that's perfect for a casual family meal.
The Original Malt Shop: You can't go wrong with classic burgers, baskets, and malts.
Key's Cafe: Home-style cooking and comfort food abound at this local favorite.
St. Paul Bagelry: Grab their scratch-made bagels for a quick breakfast or sandwiches for an easy and tasty lunch.
Maverick's Real Roast Beef: Made to order, hand-crafted beef, turkey, brisket and pork sandwiches.
Brito's Burrito: Build your own burrito or bowl from fresh ingredients and hand-pressed tortillas.
Lucky's 13 Pub: Inventive twists on classic pub favorites in a lively atmosphere.

Pictured: Maverick's Real Roast Beef

Where to Stay in Roseville During MEA Weekend

One of the best parts of planning a Roseville getaway is how easy it is to find a hotel that fits your family's needs.

With convenient access to Minneapolis, St. Paul and the surrounding Twin Cities, Roseville is an ideal home base for exploring the area during MEA weekend. Make it an overnight stay, so you'll have more time to enjoy the attractions, relax at the hotel and make the most of your fall break.

Roseville hotel options include:

Many Roseville hotels offer amenities that make traveling with family easier, including indoor pools, complimentary breakfast, and convenient access to local attractions.

Make Roseville Your MEA Weekend Destination

You don't have to travel far to make the most of MEA weekend. With family-friendly attractions, beautiful fall parks, great restaurants, and convenient hotels, Roseville has everything you need for a fun fall getaway.

Whether you're looking for indoor activities near Minneapolis and St. Paul, planning a Minnesota family staycation or simply searching for something new to do during MEA break, Roseville is ready to welcome you.

Start planning your MEA weekend getaway today!

FAQs

What is MEA weekend in Minnesota?

MEA weekend is a fall school break in Minnesota that takes place around Education Minnesota’s annual educators’ conference. Many Minnesota schools are closed on Thursday and Friday during MEA weekend, giving families a long weekend to travel, plan a family getaway, or enjoy local activities.

When is MEA weekend in Minnesota in 2026?

MEA weekend in Minnesota is October 15–18, 2026. Many Minnesota schools have days off on Thursday, October 15 and Friday, October 16 for Education Minnesota’s annual conference, though school calendars can vary by district.

What are the best things to do during MEA weekend in Roseville, Minnesota?

Some of the best things to do during MEA weekend in Roseville include visiting indoor attractions like Activate, Kids Empire, Smash Park, Gamezenter, and Neko Clawww, exploring Rosedale Center, enjoying the fall scenery at Central Park and Harriet Alexander Nature Center, and dining at Roseville's many family-friendly restaurants.

What can teenagers do in Roseville during MEA weekend?

Teenagers can find plenty to do in Roseville, including interactive challenges at Activate, pickleball and arcade games at Smash Park, immersive experiences at BRKTHROUGH, movies at AMC Rosedale and shopping and entertainment at Rosedale Center.

What are some things to do outside during MEA weekend in Roseville?

Families can enjoy fall walks and outdoor activities at Roseville parks, including Central Park and Harriet Alexander Nature Center. Central Park offers more than 225 acres of connected parkland, paved trails, open green spaces, playgrounds, and the Muriel Sahlin Arboretum, while Harriet Alexander features 52 acres of trails and boardwalks.

Where should families stay for MEA weekend in Roseville?

Roseville has a variety of family-friendly hotels, including Country Inn & Suites, Fairfield Inn & Suites, Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Home2 Suites by Hilton, Residence Inn, Courtyard by Marriott, DoubleTree by Hilton and avid hotel, and Roseville Budget Inn. Many offer convenient amenities for families, such as indoor pools and complimentary breakfast.

What should families do in Roseville if it rains during MEA weekend?

Roseville has plenty of indoor activities for a rainy MEA weekend, including Kids Empire, Activate, Smash Park, Gamezenter, BRKTHROUGH, Game Show Studio, Build-a-Bear Workshop, Neko Clawww, Color Me Mine, AMC Rosedale, and shopping at Rosedale Center.