Patch Picks: Five Great 'Staycation' Options

'The Grove' Indoor Water Park

This is fun central in Inver Grove Heights, so if the kids have energy to burn, pack the swimsuits and head to the Grove. Enjoy water slides, splash challenges or just swim a few laps. Combine gym and swim time together and everyone will have even more fun.  Twilight fees of only $4 per person apply after 5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.  For information and hours, visit www.ci.inver-grove-heights.mn.us. or call the pool info line at 651-450-2480.  8055 Barbara Avenue, Inver Grove Heights

Minnesota State Capital Art Treasures Hunt

This is a perfect staycation option—feel like a tourist in your own hometown. The State Capital offers free tours as well as a self-guided scavenger hunt on Saturdays and Sundays for all ages—pick up a $2 booklet at the information desk and find 12 unique decorations in the State Capital building while you explore this Minnesota landmark.  For information about hours and tours, visit www.mnhs.org or call 651-296-2881. 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Boulevard, St. Paul

Farm Babies at the Minnesota Zoo

These sweet little farm animals are definitely fan favorites 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. While you're at the Zoo, don't forget to check out the only creatures who are sorry to see winter go—the bears at Russia's Grizzly Coast.  Visit www.mnzoo.com for information or call the 24-hour Zoo line at 952-431-9500.  13000 Zoo Boulevard, Apple Valley

Macy's Tower of Flowers in Minneapolis

Bring your senses back to life at this annual rite of spring on the eigth floor of the downtown Minneapolis Macy's store. From now through April 10, revel in gardens filled with hyacinth, azaleas and tulips, courtesy of Bachman's. The exhibit is free. Make a day of it and enjoy lunch—with lots of kid-friendly menu options—in Macy's Sky Room restaurant. For more information, visit www.macys.com and click on the Minneapolis store.  700 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

If you are eager to see multiple gardens slowly springing to life, this staycation option is worth the drive to Chaska. Walk the many trails, watch for the first hopeful blooms of spring and enjoy time outdoors without your snow boots. Every weekend throughout April, there are drop-in family activities in the Learning Center, free with admission to the Arboretum. The theme is "Squish of Spring" where kids can make mud pies with spring soil, watch worms compost trash and more. Visit www.arboretum.mn.us for details and directions. 952-443-1400. 3675 Arboretum Drive, Chaska