Free family activities

-- Julia Iverson

You probably haven’t heard the word free in a while, especially since your holiday shopping sprees. After balancing your checkbook and looking at your Visa bill, you may be looking for entertainment on a budget.

Well, how does FREE sound? There are activities around town that are fun and frivolous for everyone, young or old (no need to label yourself). Keep your eyes peeled while you read the first of a monthly column that details fun, FREE opportunities in the Twin Cities. How many times is the word FREE printed? The more the better, right? Free stuff, here we come.

Minneapolis Institute of Art
2400 3rd Ave. S., Mpls
612-870-3131
http://www.artsmia.org/
Admission and activities are free Sundays from 12-5 p.m. The institute offers diverse activities for all ages, including tours, treasure hunts, art carts, and learning stations. Check out their website for more information and event schedules.

Interactive Crafts at the Lake Shore Learning Store
5699 W. 16th St., St Louis Park
952-541-0991
http://www.lakeshorelearning.com/
Free Saturdays from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. include interactive craft projects for kids ages 3 and up. Families are welcome to walk in and create. Check out their website for more information and schedules.

Bell Museum of Natural History
10 SE Church St., Mpls
612-624-7083
http://www.bellmuseum.org/
Free Sundays from 12-5 p.m. Visitors can learn about nature, artifacts, and many different wildlife habitats. The museum offers traveling exhibits and a “Touch and See” room that is popular with young visitors. Visit http://www.bellmuseum.org/ for more information.

Bound to Be Read Bookstore
870 Grand Ave., St. Paul
651-646-2665
www.boundtoberead.com/
This charming bookstore offers free activities all month long. Many adult, young adult, and children’s readings are available. The bookstore has a free, specially designed children’s play area with books, costumes, and toys. “Her Majesty’s Story Time,” caters to preschool children and is held every Tuesday and Saturday at 10 a.m. Look on their website for the full calendar of activities.

Telephone Story Line Call 952-352-1350 and listen to a local actor read children’s books. This is a free call. Readings change weekly and themes change monthly. These free educational stories allow you to sit back, relax and listen 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Appropriate for all ages.

Minnesota Children’s Museum
10 W. 7th St., St. Paul
651-225-6000
http://www.mcm.org/
Join the fun for free every third Sunday of the month from 9-5 p.m. Children and adults can explore moving water, building techniques, and day-to-day activities like a trip to the market or the neighborhood café. Check out http://www.mcm.org/ for more information.

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