milejunkie, I default to Mr. Spudd for the info on Blaine. Can't say I've been there...

However, I do agree with him on the attraction thing.. Nicollet mall is interesting, but it's not *that* interesting. I was going to say if you wanted to do a day thing, then go for Lake Calhoun.. Get some picnic stuff at the Lund's at Lagoon and Humboldt and spend some quiet time. Bring a ball or something.. I'm sure your son would love the wide open spaces.

But I don't know how much of a family attraction Uptown is. Yes, the Mall of America's always a hit. If it's raining, the Minnesota Science Museum is also usually a hit (in St. Paul).

The Twin Cities is a huge theatre town. We've got more theatres per capita than any other city in the US except New York. To get some theatre listings, go to http://www.citypages.com and I'm sure you can find something.

Also the MN symphony is doing they're little family thing starting this weekend.. check that out at http://www.mnorch.org.

I assure you they are excellent. I heard them at Carnegie hall last Feb and the blew me away.. now I have season tix.

Minneapolis is a very artistic city.. I always encourage people to go when the come here.. but this is coming from someone with an M.F.A.

Have fun.. if you need directions or anything.. send me email..

Jeff