20 Best Things to Do in Rogers, Minnesota

Rogers, Minnesota, is a small city that grows and bustles with visitors and new businesses yearly. It is located right along the edge of the Twin Cities in the Metropolitan area.

Nestled as a portal between rural Minnesota and the metro area, Rogers combines small-town charm and big-city living. There’s plenty of access to shops and amenities nearby the city, just a short drive away.

While several activities can be done within Rogers, visitors will find the top attractions and events on our list less than 15 minutes from the city center. Our list covers you whether you’re relocating, visiting, or just a local looking for something to do. Check out these fun things to do in Rogers and the immediate surrounding areas.

Things to Do in Rogers, Minnesota

1. Emagine Rogers (Rogers 18 Theater)

Address: 13692 Rogers Dr, Rogers, MN 55374, United States

The Emagine Rogers Theater is a luxurious cinema offering guests large, comfy power-reclining chairs and huge wall-to-floor screens. Additionally, if you’re 21 or older, the staff will serve cocktails, beers, and other specialty drinks.

They also have the RealD 3D effect, an up-and-coming generation of movie entertainment services. That includes bright, crisp, realistic images that take your movie-viewing experience to the next level.

Seat reservation is also available through the Google app so that you know exactly where you’ll be seated. Take the whole family, go alone, go with friends, or go out on a date to the Emagine Rogers Theater while you’re in Rogers. It is an ideal family vacation spot to go to.

The theater also offers stadium and retro seating. The stadium seating has recliners that provide the most comfortable viewing experience, while the retro seating doesn’t have recliners but old-school seating and old-school prices.

Visiting Emagine Rogers is a good experience for those coming through town who want to catch a new release in style. Don’t forget to browse their exquisite menu with various foods and traditional concession stand delights like popcorn and candy.

2. Ellingson Car Museum

Ellingson Car Museum Entrance — image by Juan Rivas/TripAdvisor

Address: 20950 Rogers Dr, Rogers, MN 55374, United States

Car enthusiasts who appreciate vintage car collectibles will love traveling to the Ellingson Car Museum. Ellingson Motorcars is a fine car dealership with the Midwest’s top classic cars. They have an indoor showroom where guests can view nearly 100 stunning cars, motorcycles, and trucks.

These beauties are for sale, ranging from iconic classics to pre-war antique cars to modern automobiles and high-power muscle cars. If you want to come to take pictures and sit inside, Ellingson has the greatest selection of quality vintage cars in all of Minnesota.

The owner’s name is Scott, and he’s a friendly guy who loves to talk about cars and inform guests about the history of all automobiles. It only costs five dollars to enter the showroom, and it’s an enjoyable activity for the whole family, especially if you like collectibles.

See Related: Things to Do in Minneapolis

3. Mary Queen of Peace-St. Walburga Campus

Mary Queen of Peace Catholic Church Rogers — image by Mary Queen of Peace/Facebook

Address: 21304 Church Ave, Rogers, MN 55374, United States

For those who would like an immersive worship experience in a small congregation, a trip to Mary Queen of Peace-St. Walburga Campus may be in order.

The inside of this church is adorned with large stained-glass windows and gold trimming around the altar. It is a Catholic church near the Twin Cities with two campuses within two miles of one another.

They have multiple worship services guests can attend or request to walk through when service isn’t in session. Nearby the church, there are numerous restaurants where you can grab a bite after service.

The church members are very friendly and welcoming to visitors who want to stop by and hear an encouraging message when they’re in town. Visitors have consistently commented that having a church family is nice when they’re away from home or have just moved to Rogers.

4. ProKART Racing

Address: 11700 Troy Ln N, Maple Grove, MN 55369, United States

At ProKART Racing, kids and adults alike will love the high-energy atmosphere. This indoor go-kart racing facility is the perfect weekend getaway activity to get out, burn energy, and have fun. What’s cool about ProKART is that you can utilize their establishment for leisure activities or professional training.

They have specialized equipment and meeting rooms available for those who want to host events at the location. Host a get-together at ProKART to encourage maximum enjoyment, participation, and unity amongst family, friends, or co-workers.

If you’re new to karting, the guides will assist you with finding a package that suits your budget and needs. Kids will love the freedom of being indoors for birthday parties as they can travel along the dual-circuit with bumpers along the course. This is an excellent opportunity for people new to the area who want to create memories with loved ones for a reasonable price.

5. Whirlyball Twin Cities

Address: 13644 80th Cir N, Maple Grove, MN 55369, United States

Whirlyball Twin Cities is amongst the top activities on our list near Rogers, Minnesota. This facility has everything you could want in an indoor entertainment center, from children’s games, bowling, laser tag, an escape room, whirly ball, and arcade games.

The center also has a full restaurant, bar, and a 4000-square-foot arena that accommodates events like bumper cars, lacrosse, and more. You can enter the arcade, hang out with friends and family, watch the games on multiple screens, and play a few games.

Darts, shuffleboard, billiards, video games, and more are popular options. The games vary from location to location, so check for what’s available in the Rogers area before your visit.

Once you’ve enjoyed one of the many group events, you can end the evening with a cold brew and a delicious meal at the restaurant.

See Related: Things to Do in Bemidji, Minnesota

6. Minnesota Axe

Visitors in large groups might enjoy booking a trip to Minnesota Axe for a refreshing experience throwing axes. The staff coordinates every detail of your visit and takes pride in ensuring you have a great time, whether you’re new to the sport or seasoned.

If you’re coming in alone, or you happen to see the building and want to check it out, walk-ins are also welcome! It only costs $20 for an hour of throwing axes with or without the assistance of a professional thrower. It’s important to acknowledge that this is usually a group event, so the lanes may not always be available.

However, if there are no reservations, have at it, as walk-ins are first come, first served. You’ll also be given a thorough rundown of the guidelines and safety training to prepare you for your session. If you wish to become a member of a competitive ax-throwing league, inquire at the front desk for more information.

Those just visiting can have a cool experience to add to their books, and for new Rogerians, you may have just found your niche at Minnesota Axe.

See Related: Best Beaches in Minnesota

7. Oliver Kelley Farm

Address: 15788 Kelley Farm Rd, Elk River, MN 55330, United States

Oliver Kelley Farm is one of the most interactive activities on the list. Understand the history of agriculture, food, and farming from the past to the present. Starting in the 1860s, get a better idea of what it was like to work the farm, cultivate the garden, and tend to the animals.

Kelley Farm also has nature trails that wind along the Mississippi River and through restored woodlands and prairie lands. Take the entire family and make a day of it. Meet all the farm animals and engage and converse with the staff as they work around the fields, house, barn, and garden.

You’ll also participate in numerous activities that display the season change and how it affects the farming cycle. The trails showcase various species of plants and other wildlife that are hard to find elsewhere.

You’ll likely see gorgeous great blue herons, wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, bald eagles, and more. The signs along the trail also detail the history of pioneering and how it affected the land. There’s also an interactive kitchen and dozens of other activities.

8. Wild Woods Water Park

Address: 9200 Quaday Ave NE, Otsego, MN 55330, United States

If you and the family are ready for an all-day adventure, the Wild Woods Waters Park is the place to go. Located within the Holiday Inn Hotel, this particular aquatic park has been acknowledged as one of the best in the city for guests of all ages.

Visitors staying at the hotel can receive passes as part of their accommodation package, but you’re also welcome to walk in! The admission fee is low, with deals for families and large groups.

Step into the past with their old river town theme and 30,000 sq ft aquatic center. The center has four-story water slides, including one full-body slide, two tube slides, and a half-slide before you hit the pool.

Enjoy a relaxing time on the Lazy River, splash around in the activity pool, or take the little ones to Buddy’s Playland, a zero-depth pool with games and toys for tots. If you have the time, you can hit the basketball court and play pickup games.

After you’ve spent the day playing in the water, head over to the snack bar and pub for refreshments. There’s so much to do at the water park that you’ll never have a dull moment. If you have the time, make it your business to drop by the Wild Woods Water Park!

9. Sand Dunes State Forest

Address: Big Lake, MN 55309, United States

Sand Dunes State Forest has 225 acres and is tucked nicely inside the forest. Moreover, it holds a 36-unit Ann Lake Campground and Day Use; this includes the Sand Dunes Horse camp, which operates at capacity during summer weekends.

The layout of the Sand Dunes is made of 2,700 acres of pine plantation on rolling terrain. The Sand Dunes also consist of prairie and oak savanna forests. It is among our favorite parks to explore in Minnesota.

The vast area is useful for performing any number of recreational activities, which include snowshoeing, snowmobiling, hunting, pan fishing on Ann Lake, hiking, camping, swimming, and even horseback riding. Additional activities include dispersed camping, fishing on the pier, canoeing, kayaking, and more.

10. Twin Cities Harvest Festival and Maze

Twin Cities Harvest Festival and Maze is Minnesota’s largest corn maze. This event is fun and exciting for the entire family. Bert Bouwman, a corn maze developer and experienced farmer, runs the festival with his wife and six children. The family even produces two stands in Chanhassen and Brooklyn Park.

After successful years of farming, the family decided to have their corn maze. After 11 years of the maze operation, Bert Bouwman and his family have raised more than $200,000 for local charities.

Some of the most notable causes are the Minnesota Military Family Foundation, Minnesota Wild Foundation, Lynx Fastbreak Foundation, and more. 20 acres of land are allocated to the Twin Cities Harvest Festival and Maze. You are more than welcome to have a good time taking in the scenery and pleasant crowd.

11. Fresh Acres

In 2018, Fresh Acre’s mission came to life when they began sharing their farm with others through a corn maze that they created. The following September, Bert Bouwman opened the corn mazes for a second year, and the event took up approximately ten acres of property.

You can expect to tour the property and participate in fun events such as going to the petting zoo, playing in the corn pit, and climbing the hay bale mountain. Vendors will also be present to provide food and other refreshments for your enjoyment.

As a visitor, you can bank on the chemical-free corn because of the careful preparation. The weeds have been kept low through hands-on labor absent chemical intervention. As a result, you can enjoy the corn maze without worrying about contamination and purchase some on your way out the door!

See Related: Things to Do in Shakopee, Minnesota

12. Crow-Hassan Park Reserve

Address: 12595 Park Dr, Hanover, MN 55374, United States

Crow-Hassan Park Reserve is a stunning park. The accompanying dog park is perfect for your pup to run around, and the restored prairie lands are spectacular. The natural beauty of this park makes it, without question, the best park in the area.

The dog park in this park is undoubtedly the best in miles around. If you’re ever near and you have your pup with you, it is most certainly worth the drive. Just be sure to pack a lunch, and you and your dog can enjoy a delightful walk even without a leash.

Furthermore, dogs have the bonus of dipping in the Crow River to cool down during summer. This off-leash dog park spans approximately two miles in a loop alongside the Crow River in Hanover/St. Michael. You and your dog will be pleasantly surprised at how much space you’ll have to roam around.

There’s a mulch trail to help guide you along the way. Virtually all dogs seem well-behaved and socialized along the trail, which is another thing you don’t have to worry about as a pet owner.

See Related: Best National Parks in the USA

13. Jackpot Junction Casino Hotel

Address: 39375 County Rd 24, Morton, MN 56270, United States

Jackpot Junction Casino Hotel is a very nice place to go if you need a room, want to have a good time, or both! The establishment boasts luxury hotel rooms with a pool area as well.

Additionally, the Casino portion of this facility features awesome slot machines and a great selection of tables. There’s even food available for purchase, which is good and reasonably priced. The decor is sophisticated, and the casino has fun games for you to enjoy, such as Blackjack, bingo, and slots.

When it comes to the slot machines, Jackpot Junction Casino Hotel’s gaming floor has 1,200 of the most cutting-edge slot machines. Moreover, they also have classic slot machines, which we all know will never go out of style.

There are even matinees and evening sessions for your convenience, plus they host weekly progressive jackpots and new bingo games to join every month.

14. Central Park Playground and Splash Pad

Address: 21400 Rouillard Ave, Rogers, MN 55374, United States

The Central Park Playground and Splash Pad are fun for people of all ages. This park features several playgrounds for people aged six months to 100 years old. The equipment is top-notch and made with the utmost quality.

Moreover, the park is always clean and pristine even though it’s constantly busy. It has convenient seating for watchful parents, picnic tables, and walking paths. Everything is also accessible to those with disabilities.

For those hot summer days, The Central Park Playground and Splash Pad is a great place to be. The kids will love it, and it’s even safe for the youngest children. The park also features spacious rooms, a skating rink, basketball courts, large bathrooms, and a couples fire pit!

15. Corner Bar

Corner Bar is the quintessential dive bar in Middle America! This hidden gem also serves Heggie’s delicious pizza, candy bars, chips, and jarred pickled eggs. This cozy establishment has a patio on the side.

Furthermore, there’s a pool table and karaoke on Thursday-Saturday nights. The decor is inviting, the vibe is chill, and the bartenders are skilled and personable! If you want to enjoy a low-key environment where you can enjoy a cold brew amongst friends, Corner Bar is the place to go.

See Related: Best Breweries in Duluth

16. Nucky’s Speakeasy

Address: 300 E Main St, Anoka, MN 55303, United States

Constructed in 1916, Nucky’s Speakeasy is in Minnesota’s Historical Registry. The Speakeasy has its very own private entrance located in the back. You’ll see a red door as you approach the entrance. Go down the outside stairway, which runs along the side of the building.

You’ll be transported back in time to the days of The History, and artwork depicting bootleggers and other events from 1920-1933 adorns the walls.

Try out their beautifully lit bar or sit at a table for two to four people. Try crafting beers, cocktails, and Prohibition-era drinks, which are available on the menu. What’s more, during the Prohibition era, there were lots of alcohol-free drinks as well.

Beautiful outdoor seating is available when the weather permits. The eclectic menu features Asian, American, and Jamaican cuisine. You are sure to find something for yourself and everyone at your party.

If you’re having trouble deciding what to wear, a 1920s-style dress is welcome to add to the overall ambiance of the place. Smart-casual is also appropriate for Nucky’s.

17. Knapton’s Raspberries, Pumpkins & Orchard

Address: 5695 Hwy 55, Rockford, MN 55373, United States

Knapton’s Raspberries, Pumpkins & Orchard allows you to roam acres of pumpkin fields to pick your ideal pumpkin straight from the vine where it grew. This orchard specializes in cultivating and growing large orange pumpkins with large stems. They have squashes and multi-textured heirloom gourds as well.

Below are the other fruits which are available at the orchard:

Cherries in late June – mid-July
Tomatoes in late July – October
Sweet corn late July – August
Cut flowers mid-July – October
Pumpkins, Squash early September – October
Pears August – September
Plums in late August
Miscellaneous vegetables throughout the summer and fall. Zucchini, cucumbers, green beans, yellow (wax) beans, peppers, peas, kohlrabi, carrots, onion, garlic, beets, herbs, etc.

You’re bound to find raspberries in the field during summer and fall. The best time to pick berries is the 4th of July and a week or two before the state fair. Be sure to call ahead to enjoy some family fun and get ready to make some lasting memories.

18. The Peabody Players

The Peabody Players, created by Heather Gerard-Peabody, connect the world through laughter and joy. They give top-notch comedy to audiences expecting to have their sides split. Peabody Players also specializes in Workshops, Sales Training, Team-Building Workshops, and Leadership Development.

The Peabody Players specialize in improv comedy and have a combined performance history of over 100 years. Their shows are family-friendly and clean. This place features some of the best comedians in the Twin Cities. If you’re looking for a laugh, drop by the Peabody Players.

19. Albertville Premium Outlets®

Address: 6415 Labeaux Ave NE, Albertville, MN 55301, United States

The Albertville Premium Outlets is a mere 30 minutes north of Minneapolis. There are over 65 stores to shop around. You can expect to see a few stores, such as UGG Outlet, Michael Kors Outlet, Lululemon Outlet, The North Face Outlet, Coach Outlet, and more. If you like to shop, stop by Albertville Premium Outlets and check out the variety of retailers in one convenient location.

20. Drunken Easels

Drunken Easels is a place to go when you want to have a good time. Here, painting and sipping beer combine neatly, making for a good time. You can meet new friends and see some wonderful artwork created before your very eyes. Book an event with Matt Brown and have a wonderful time.

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