Patch Picks: Best Local Staycations

The Water Park of America

Located inside the Radisson Hotel Bloomington, near Mall of America and soaring 90 feet above the Twin Cities' skyline, this indoor water park will keep the family thinking warm thoughts no matter how cold it is outside.

The Minnesota Sea Aquarium at the Mall Of America

The Aquarium offers the kind of experience you would expect to see in a state much closer to the ocean. There are fascinating new displays, cool hands-on activities for kids, tons more sea creatures than ever before and plenty of opportunities for the kids to ooh and ahhh.

Farm Babies at the Minnesota Zoo

The Minnesota Zoo provides one of the best values for families in the south suburbs if you buy a family pass. One exhibit on the "don't miss" list is the annual Farm Babies celebration,  and they will be on display at the Wells Fargo Family Farm at the Minnesota Zoo beginning April 1. Chicks, piglets, lambs and more will be looking for visitors daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. throughout April. Visit www.mnzoo.com for information or call the 24-hour Zoo line at 952-431-9500.  13000 Zoo Boulevard, Apple Valley

Minnesota Transportation Museum: Jackson Street Roundhouse

If you or someone in your family is a fan of trains, you'll be captivated by this amazing roundhouse and train museum. A former steam engine maintenance facility, the museum provides a unique opportunity for kids of all ages to experience railroading. They have real trains, lots of memorabilia and a working roundhouse.

Mill City Museum

If you would like a glimpse of Minnesota's past, check out this unique museum. Built into the ruins of what was once the world’s largest flour mill, Mill City Museum is located on the historic Mississippi Riverfront. Here, visitors of all ages learn about the intertwined histories of the flour industry, the river, and the city of Minneapolis.