IKEA551

It was hard not feel slighted that it took Sweden's favorite home furnishings store so long to open shop in historically-Scandinavian Minnesota. But judging by the number of cars in the parking lot on any given day, all is long since forgiven!

Even a few years after its opening, the place is still a zoo on weekends and holidays - with inexpensive contemporary children's furnishings and colorful playthings drawing families in, as well as family-friendly events and kids activities scheduled throughout the year.

There are well-equipped play areas along the shopping path, as well as the inviting "model rooms," which kids are welcome to explore. Toilet-trained kids more than 35 inches tall can also be checked in to Smaland, a free supervised play area near the entrance, where they can snuggle on comfy steps to watch a video or play in the ball pit while parents shop.

The in-store restaurant serves up inexpensive kid's meals and snacks - there's even a children's section in the dining area, with more toys and videos, as well as small tables and chairs. Child-friendly "half-portions" of most menu items can be requested if nothing appeals to kids from the set children's menu.

Besides furniture and toys, the store sells kitchenware and appliances; home office supplies; bath and bedding items; lighting fixtures; Swedish foods; live plants; and more.