10 novel 'kidsperiences' make great gifts

Dogsledding, llama-hugging, indoor ziplines and more offer fresh thrills for kids of all ages.

December 23, 2022 at 10:13PM
St. Paul’s own big top Circus Juventas in St. Paul offers youth, from toddlers to young adults, training in a wide variety of circus arts. (Dan Norman, Dan Norman Photography/The Minnesota Star Tribune)
St. Paul’s own big top Circus Juventas in St. Paul offers youth, from toddlers to young adults, training in a wide variety of circus arts. (Dan Norman, Dan Norman Photography/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Urban Air Adventure Park in Coon Rapids features a zipline-like ride. (Glen Stubbe, Star Tribune/The Minnesota Star Tribune)
Mini golfing isn’t just for summer fun. Can Can Wonderland in St. Paul has an 18-hole course. (Alex Kormann, Star Tribune/The Minnesota Star Tribune)
Snow tubers raced down the hill as the lights of illuminate the track at Buck Hill in Burnsville. (Renee Jones Schneider, Star Tribune/The Minnesota Star Tribune)
The Twin Cities offers many places for snowboarders and skiers, including Hyland Hills Ski Area in Bloomington. (David Joles, Star Tribune/The Minnesota Star Tribune)
At Points Unknown, dog sledding experiences end with a little cuddle time. (Erica Pearson/The Minnesota Star Tribune)
The llamas at Carlson’s Llovable Llames, including Zorro, are indeed lovable. (Aaron Lavinsky, Star Tribune/The Minnesota Star Tribune)
Dog sledding offers kids a unique wintertime thrill. (Erica Pearson/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

about the writers

Rachel Hutton

Reporter

Rachel Hutton writes lifestyle and human-interest stories for the Star Tribune.

See More

Erica Pearson

Reporter

Erica Pearson is a reporter and editor at the Star Tribune.

See More

More from Variety

card image

Highlights for Sept. 26-Oct. 2 include PJ Harvey, ELO, Cowboy Junkies, Jimmy Webb, Morris Day & the Time, the Family Stone and Rainbow Kitten Surprise.