Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in Minneapolis, MN

OK, I admit it, I've never actually traveled with M.  Well, there was a quick jaunt up north to see family when she was a couple of months old, but that was it.  (it included the worst major chain motel I've ever had the displeasure to stay in) Below is all of the info I could glean from the MAC website, as well as the thing I find the most valuable.  Travel tips from my friends J1 and J2.   J1 lived in Ireland for a couple of years and did MULTIPLE overseas flights with an infant/toddler/preschooler, most of the time by herself.  J2 has done many family trips with her TWO children, who are only just over a year apart in age (and both under the age of 3 for the trips).  If that doesn't get them nominated for sainthood, I don't know what will. 

If you're traveling through Minneapolis, or in or out of Minneapolis, the Lindberg Terminal has a number of family friendly features.  There is a family room (changing tables, looks like a crib on the pictures, lots of comfy chairs, and a CONTAINED space) near the entrance to the E concourse, and a nursing mothers room (for pumping as well) accessible by going to Travelers Assistance desk across from Gate C12 (it is a locked room), entrance near the C rotunda (middle of the concourse).  (confused, print off this map before going)  There are at least three family restrooms, but I think my count may be off.  Men's rooms have changing facilities, and notoriety thanks to one Senator from a state out west. (sorry, the HHH Terminal has neither nursing mother's room or family room)

There are play areas in both terminals (Concourse C in the Lindberg and 2nd floor of the HHH), designed by local museum and public space designer Blue Rhino Studios.  Each includes fun facts, photo ops, and I hear is pretty fun.

If you need to eat, fortunately your options include more than a cheeseburger.  For healthy options, go local with either French Meadow Bakery (The Mall & Concourse F ) or D'Amico & Sons.  For treats there is a Ben & Jerry's (The Mall), or another local one, Dairy Queen (Concourse C).  For Coffee, there are Starbucks, Caribou, and Dunn Brothers, scattered about.  (what, I know it stunts their growth, for YOU)

So, now some parting expert tips from my very knowledgeable friends.

From J1 - Remember, she did most of these trips SOLO. 
- In every carry-on bag for everyone in your group, have one snack, one new-to-the-kid gift or book, a largish zip bag, and a couple of napkins/tissues/paper towels, and, if appropriate, two diapers and a small pack of wipes (in EVERY bag, you never know which person will have the kid when something happens, you may be separated on the plane)
- At least one change of clothes for the kid, and a shirt for yourself (again, for each person traveling)
- Be nice to everybody around you - flight attendants, the people at the check-in desk or the gate, other travelers.  They'll be a lot more likely to cut you some slack, plus sometimes they can help you out with getting your lap-baby her own seat
- Don't save the toy/gift/new book for just the flight, they're good for lines too.

From J2 -
- Absolutely get your gate-checked stroller back on a layover a requirement if your kid isn't walking yet, but a good idea, even if your kid is. Strollers can make for a soothing walk for both of you, a crazy ride that thrills your kid, a napping spot if you're incredibly lucky, or just a containment unit if you need 2 minutes of sanity.
- Get a drink in the airport it's too hard to drink in the air with lap-children or toddlers, who tend to move around and end up kicking the tray-tables. And sometimes you just need one.
- If your layover is unexpected, ask for food vouchers. If there is delay for mechanical reasons, the airline owes you. If it's weather-related though, you're out of luck.
- Any travel with children means you should pack as light as possible for you and as much as you can carry for them. Trust me, you don't need that book for the plane.
- You may see some other parents in the same situation (or even on the same flight) get to know them if you can. They may be more experienced and have some tips for your, or you might just need to ask for some wipes. Buying wipes or diapers at the airport is robbery.
- If it's a specialty vacation, consider purchasing some vacation items at your destination as well, like life jackets, wetsuits, winter wear, or anything that is bulky and probably won't get used at home. Donate the items to a local Goodwill or Salvation Army before you depart for home. Odd are, the locals will have more use for the items than you will.
- Whenever getting on a plane with children, decide what needs to be packed and what you can just purchase at your destination. Bring enough for the trip and stop at a grocery store when you leave the airport