VALLEYFAIR
Thrillseekers, wait no more for a shrieking good time. Minnesota's biggest amusement park opens for business this weekend. New this year is Route 76, an area geared toward families and inspired by the year 1976, when the park opened its gates. Rides inside the area include antique autos, the Tilter and the Scrambler. Also, "Dinosaurs Alive," an interactive and educational experience with animatronic dinosaurs. (10 a.m.-10 p.m. today-Sat.; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sun.-Thu. $25.99-$36.99 Hwy. 101 and Valleyfair Dr., Shakopee. 952-445-7600. www.valleyfair.com.)
DANDELION DAY
Some see this plant and think of a pesky weed; others think of a gourmet salad. Whatever your opinion, this day celebrates Harriet Godfrey's introduction of dandelion seeds to the St. Anthony Falls area. Take a tour of the Ard Godfrey house and make your own dandelion necklaces, bracelets and crowns. Take home a free recipe book with such beverages as dandelion coffee, wine and tea. (1-4 p.m. Sun. Free. Ard Godfrey House, University and Central Avenues SE., Mpls. 612-813-5300. www.ardgodfreyhouse.org.)
MELISSA WALKER
