Como Town in Saint Paul, MN 55103

Ideally situated next to the Como Zoo, McNeely Conservatory, and Cafesjian's Carousel in Como Park, the seasonally-operated Como Town amusement park offers gentle thrills and free live entertainment. Five- to eight-year-olds are likely to enjoy the park most; older kids are better served at Nick Universe and Valleyfair. (Hours: Mem Day-Lab Day, Sun-Thu 10am-7:30pm; Fri-Sat 10am-8pm. Additional day if weather is favorable; see website for details.)

In 2008, Como Town introduced the Tornado, which joined Traffic Jam, the Screamin' Dragon Coaster, Pumpkin Patch, Aladdin's Magic Carpet, and other attractions that induce squeals of delight. Kids can also tool around on mini-city streets in electric cars to earn a driver's license, fight fires from a kid-sized cherry picker, pedal themselves silly in skycopters, and climb on dinosaur bones in a sandy play area.

All of the attractions require tickets - except most of the shows in the theater - and a wristband (available in all-day and twilight versions) is probably the way to go for kids who'll be going on more than a few rides, since most rides requires three or four tickets each. Rent strollers at the Como Visitor Center.

Birthday parties: A $250 package includes invitations, cupcakes, ice cream, juice, and unlimited ride wristbands for up to 12 children. Add-on options include treat bags, pizza, face painting, and more. Call 651.487.8283 to book.

Camps:Kids can spend a week digging dinosaur bones, building roller coasters, recreating tornadoes, making rain sticks, and exploring the science and fun behind Como Town attractions. See website for details on offerings.

Summer opportunities: Ride operators must be over age 18, but Como Town hires kids ages 14 and up for other jobs at the park during the season.