If you live out in the suburbs and aren't familiar with Minneapolis or St. Paul, it can seem overwhelming to bring your kids for a city adventure but it doesn't have to be.

The Linden Hills Neighborhood in Minneapolis is a whimsical, fun place to visit any time of year but especially the summer. With Lake Harriet and Lake Calhoun both just a stones throw away you really can choose your own adventure whether that is walking around the lake, playing at the playground, catching a concert at the bandshell or fishing off one of the docks.

In the summer, Lake Harriet has free nightly concerts and various movie nights and other activities at the bandshell. {Schedule.}

Once you're done visiting either Lake Harriet or Lake Calhoun you can take a short walk down the way to 43rd and Upton Avenue and visit the infamous Wild Rumpus bookstore. Known for it's whimsical nature and the miscellaneous animals who take residence inside the store, readers of all ages will love this little book store. With a kids door and an adult door, creaky wood floors in the back and children's art work covering the back walls of the store, thanking Wild Rumpus for the fun. They specialize in children's books and have a wide variety. They also host various special author events, teen book club and even a couple pj's and trolley parties each year.

Once you've found some reading material, head on over to Sebastian Joe's where you will enjoy the most delicious ice cream on their back patio. My favorite is Pavoratti! Be prepared for a line and even a wait for a table on warm weekends and even some busier weeknights.

There's a Creative Kidstuff next door that my kids love looking and playing in before we wander down the way to the Linden Hills park where your kids can cool off for a dip in the wading pool or play at the park.

You can make it as full or as light of a day as you'd like.

Are you familiar with Linden Hills? If you live out in the suburbs, what are some of your favorite activities in Minneapolis or St. Paul?