No matter the weather in Minneapolis, things to do in this city abound. While winter can be quite chilly (the record low temp is -41 degrees F), summer hovers at a much more manageable average of 73.8 degrees F. From T-Wolves games in the winter to water-skiing shows in the summer, there's something for everyone—and as a bonus, a lot of activities are free. Read on for our guide to staying busy in Minneapolis all year round.

Winter

Best thing to do with friends: Drink a few of whatever's on special that night before singing some karaoke at Vegas Lounge, one of the top karaoke bars in the city.

Best thing to do with kids: The Timberwolves' mascot, Crunch, is more friendly than frightening, which means even young kids who don't quite grasp the rules of basketball will have fun at the Target Center.

Best thing to do for free: General exhibitions are always free at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, which is good since you'll need a few visits to take in all of the 80,000 objects. Plus: free heating!

Spring

Best thing to do with friends: Escape rainy days—and reality itself—with a trip to the Fallout Shelter Arcade. There, gamers crawl into cockpit simulators and do everything from fly a Harrier to survive an alien attack.

Best thing to do with kids: Experts at Wood Lake Nature Center will teach you how to make breakfast's best condiment: maple syrup.

Best thing to do for free: The spring is the best time to visit Minnehaha Regional Park, as the 53-foot waterfall cascades at its strongest as the Mississippi River melts.

Summer

Best thing to do with friends: Summer dining means two things: barbecue and eating outside. Diners at Cap's Grille (one of the best barbecue joints in Minneapolis) can enjoy racks of ribs and burgers on the patio or order their food to go and picnic at Minnehaha Falls and Wabun Park, which are just across the street.

Best thing to do with kids: Kids will learn confidence as they put on a play during summer camp at the Guthrie Theater, and parents will get a mini vacation of their own.

Best thing to do for free: Sit back on the banks of the Mississippi and enjoy the one-hour show the Twin City River Rats water-ski team puts on every Thursday evening.

Fall

Best thing to do with friends: Oktoberfest is legendary at Gasthof Zur Gemutlichkeit, which celebrates the autumnal occasion with German food, beer, and polka music.

Best thing to do with kids: See a child-friendly production at the Orpheum Theatre, whose shows have included The Little Mermaid and Cinderella.

Best thing to do for free: If Oktoberfest puts you in the mood for a good brew, slake your thirst at Harriet Brewing. A free 30-minute tour gives you an overview of the beer-making process, plus a few samples.