Where culture and creativity come to life
Music at Minnesota Zoo
A Canvas of Cultural Experiences
Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts and culture scene of Apple Valley, Minnesota, where creativity flourishes and entertainment abounds. Our charming city offers a diverse array of experiences that will captivate art enthusiasts, music lovers, and cultural explorers alike.
Center Stage: Apple Valley's Performing Arts Scene Takes a Bow
In Apple Valley, the spotlight shines bright at the Apple Valley Performing Arts Center, our premier entertainment destination. This cultural cornerstone hosts an impressive lineup of performances year-round, from spellbinding theatrical productions to concerts that resonate with musical brilliance.
When summer arrives, our community’s creative spirit flows into the open air with the beloved Music in Kelley Park concert series. Every Friday evening from June through August, visitors and locals alike gather on the lush grounds of Kelley Park from 6-9 p.m. Presented by the Apple Valley Arts Foundation, these free concerts transform warm Minnesota evenings into magical experiences where memories are made under the stars. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and let the melodies of talented performers become the soundtrack to your perfect summer night.
In Apple Valley, the spotlight shines bright at the Apple Valley Performing Arts Center, our premier entertainment destination. This cultural cornerstone hosts an impressive lineup of performances year-round, from spellbinding theatrical productions to concerts that resonate with musical brilliance.
When summer arrives, our community’s creative spirit flows into the open air with the beloved Music in Kelley Parkconcert series. Every Friday evening from June through August, visitors and locals alike gather on the lush grounds of Kelley Park from 6-9 p.m. Presented by the Apple Valley Arts Foundation, these free concerts transform warm Minnesota evenings into magical experiences where memories are made under the stars. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and let the melodies of talented performers become the soundtrack to your perfect summer night.
- Apple Valley Performing Arts Center – Our premier entertainment destination featuring year-round theatrical productions and concerts
- Music in Kelley Park – Free summer concert series presented by the Apple Valley Arts Foundation
- Every Friday evening, June through August, 6-9 p.m.
- Bring a blanket and picnic to enjoy live music under the stars at Kelley Park
Brushstrokes & Beyond: Visual Arts That Capture the Imagination
The canvas of Apple Valley is painted with artistic expression at every turn. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Apple Valley Arts Foundation, our community serves as both showcase and incubator for artistic talent. Throughout the year, visitors can wander through thoughtfully curated exhibitions featuring works that range from traditional techniques to boundary-pushing contemporary installations.
Our galleries offer intimate spaces where art lovers can connect directly with creative expressions that reflect both our local character and universal themes. Whether you’re an experienced collector or simply appreciate the power of visual storytelling, Apple Valley’s art scene invites you to see the world through fresh eyes.
Celebration Central: Events That Define Our Community Spirit
In Apple Valley, we don’t just mark the calendar—we fill it with celebrations that bring our community’s heart and soul to life. The annual Apple Valley Freedom Days stands as our signature summer event, featuring one of the region’s most impressive Independence Day parades. As marching bands play patriotic tunes and community floats pass by, you’ll experience small-town charm with big-time energy.
When winter blankets our landscape, we don’t hibernate—we celebrate! The Apple Valley Winter Carnival transforms February’s chill into pure excitement with ice skating under twinkling lights, the thrill of the medallion hunt, and family-friendly activities that showcase Minnesota’s embrace of all four seasons. Here, we don’t escape winter; we throw it a party.
Music in Kelley Park
Gateway to Greater Minnesota Culture
Apple Valley’s strategic location places you at the doorstep of the Twin Cities’ cultural riches. Within a short scenic drive, you’ll find yourself among world-class institutions like the Minneapolis Institute of Art and the Walker Art Center, where masterpieces and cutting-edge exhibitions await your discovery.
This perfect positioning means your Apple Valley stay can seamlessly blend our community’s authentic charm with convenient access to metropolitan cultural powerhouses—giving you the best of both worlds without the hassle of big-city accommodations.
Minnesota Zoo
Wild Encounters: Where Education Meets Adventure
While traditional museums might focus on artifacts behind glass, Apple Valley proudly hosts a living, breathing educational treasure: the world-renowned Minnesota Zoo. This exceptional attraction serves as both sanctuary and classroom, offering visitors up-close encounters with fascinating creatures from around the globe.
Through innovative exhibits and engaging educational programs, the Minnesota Zoo tells the story of our planet’s incredible biodiversity while inspiring conservation efforts. From the tropical trails to the northern wilderness exhibits, every visit becomes an immersive journey across continents that enlightens as it entertains.
Where Your Story Takes Center Stage
In Apple Valley, arts and culture aren’t just attractions—they’re the vibrant threads woven into our community fabric. Every performance, gallery opening, and seasonal celebration reflects our passion for creative expression and our dedication to sharing it with visitors.
Whether you’re seeking the perfect setting for a culturally rich weekend getaway or looking to immerse yourself in Minnesota’s creative spirit, Apple Valley welcomes you with open arms and endless possibilities. Come experience the distinctive blend of small-town warmth and cultural sophistication that makes our destination unlike any other. Your Apple Valley story is waiting to be written—and it’s sure to be a masterpiece.
Looking for something more?
Plan your stay today
When you stay in Apple Valley, you’ll find yourself in your home town away from home! Whether you’re on a solo adventure or you’ve brought the whole family (and the dog!), we’ve got you covered. You’ll find yourself close to all of the amenities you want like world-class shopping, one-of-a-kind destination attractions like the Minnesota Zoo, and award-winning restaurants.
When you stay in Apple Valley, you’re home.
Lebanon Hills Camp Ground
Discover the perfect blend of urban convenience and natural serenity at Lebanon Hills Campground in Apple Valley, Minnesota. Just minutes from the bustling Twin Cities, this hidden gem offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by 2,000 acres of pristine woodlands and sparkling lakes.
What you can expect
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Walking distance to restaurants, shopping and more
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Premium amenities
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Friendly, professional service
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Transit options including bus rapid transit and lightrail connections