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Adaptive Recreation

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Welcome to Adaptive Recreation with the City of Bloomington!

Our adaptive recreation programs are:

Created for adults (18+) with disabilities.
Offered year-round, so make sure to check back for new opportunities each season.
Designed in two categories:
- Pre-Registration Programs – Sign up in advance to secure your spot.
- Drop-In Programs – No registration required, join anytime.

See the Additional Information section at the bottom of the webpage for details on staff support, TRAIL transportation, weather cancellations, and more.

Pre-Registration Programs

10-person Canoeing (summer)

We’re partnering with Wilderness Inquiry to get a group out on the water in 10-person canoes!

Come experience this unique and exciting way to paddle together. The double-wide canoes offer extra stability, making them perfect for all skill levels. Work as a team, enjoy the fresh air and take in the beauty of the water. All are welcome!

Summer 2026

When: Tuesday, August 11, 6 - 8 p.m.
Where: East Bush Lake Park (Bush Lake Beach), 9140 E. Bush Lake Rd.
Cost: $15
Transportation: TRAIL ride available.

Registration

Deadline: One week prior to each program date or until full.
Online: Webtrac
Phone: 952-563-8877 or MN Relay 711

Archery (spring, summer, fall)

Combined photo of people participating in outdoor and indoor archery activities.

Sharpen your aim and enjoy the thrill of archery! Participants of all experience levels are welcome to practice their skills, improve technique, and have fun under the guidance of certified instructors. All equipment is provided.

Spring 2026

When: Tuesday, March 24, 6 - 7:30 p.m.
Where: Substance Church Gym, 6900 W. 115th St.
Cost: $15 per session
Transportation: TRAIL ride available.

Summer 2026

When:
- Thursday, June 18, 6 - 7:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, July 8, 6 - 7:30 p.m.
- Monday, August 3, 6 - 7:30 p.m.
Where: Marsh Lake Archery Range, 9401 France Ave. S.
Cost: $15 per session
Transportation: TRAIL ride available.

Fall 2025

When: Tuesday, November 4, 6 - 7:30 p.m.
Where: Substance Church Gym, 6900 W. 115th St.
Cost: $15 per session
Transportation: TRAIL ride available.

Registration

Deadline: One week prior to each program date or until full.
Online: Webtrac
Phone: 952-563-8877 or MN Relay 711

Day Camp (summer)

Adults stretching and warming up on a racquet court

Day camp isn’t just for kids!

Join us for a full day of sports, crafts, games and nonstop fun. Whether you’re looking to try something new, get a little competitive, or simply enjoy a carefree day outside, this camp-style experience has something for everyone.

Summer 2026

When: Saturday, August 1, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Where: Bryant Park, 1001 W. 85th St.
Cost: $50
Transportation: TRAIL ride available.

Registration

Deadline: One week prior to each program date or until full.
Online: Webtrac
Phone: 952-563-8877 or MN Relay 711

Fishing (summer, winter)

Combined photo of smiling adults participating in summer and winter (ice) adaptive fishing

Come fishing in Bloomington at Bush Lake! In the summer fish from the docks. Once our lakes freeze over, venture out and catch fish through the ice.

Experienced instructors from Fishing for All LLC will provide all the equipment needed. Fishing License waivers are provided to participants. All fish are catch-and-release, but you can keep the pictures and memories forever!

Summer 2026

When: 6 - 8 p.m. on:
- Thursday, June 25, 6 - 8 p.m.
- Wednesday, July 22, 6 - 8 p.m.
- Monday, August 17, 6 - 8 p.m.
Where: West Bush Lake Park, 9401 W. Bush Lake Rd.
- Park by the boat ramp.
Cost: $12.50 per session
Transportation: TRAIL ride available.

Winter 2026

When:
- Sunday, January 11, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
- Sunday, March 1, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Where: East Bush Lake Park (Bush Lake Beach), 9140 E. Bush Lake Rd.
Cost: $12.50 per session
Transportation: TRAIL ride available.

Registration

Deadline: One week prior to each program date or until full.
Online: Webtrac
Phone: 952-563-8877 or MN Relay 711

Kickball (summer)

closeup of adult foot kicking a ball during a game of kickball on a baseball diamond

Come out for an evening of kickball. It’s a great chance to be active, connect with others, and enjoy a playful game in a welcoming atmosphere. All skill levels are welcome!

Summer 2026

When: Friday, June 26, 6:30 - 8 p.m.
Where: Tarnhill Park, 9650 Little Rd.
Cost: $7
Transportation: TRAIL ride available.

Registration

Deadline: One week prior to each program date or until full.
Online: Webtrac
Phone: 952-563-8877 or MN Relay 711

Pickleball (summer, fall)

Adult with disability playing pickleball outdoors on a blue court

Come play pickleball in a fun and welcoming environment!

Whether you’re new to the game or looking to refine your skills, enjoy practice drills and relaxed, recreational play focused on rallying and having fun with fellow players. All equipment provided.

Summer 2026

When: Thursdays, July 9 - August 13, 6:30 - 8 p.m.
Where: Dred Scott Park Pickleball Courts, 10820 Bloomington Ferry Rd.
Cost: $40
Transportation: TRAIL ride available.

Fall 2025

When: Thursdays, October 2 - 23
Time: 6:30 - 8 p.m.
Where: Substance Church Gym, 6900 W. 115th St.
Cost: $40
Transportation: TRAIL ride available.

Registration

Deadline: One week prior to each program date or until full.
Online: Webtrac
Phone: 952-563-8877 or MN Relay 711

Softball (summer)

adults with disabilities playing softball outdoors

It’s time to play softball!

Players of all experience levels are welcome to practice hitting, fielding, and enjoy relaxed, recreational play. Games are designed so everyone gets a turn at bat and a chance to field, with underhand pitching from staff or the option to use a baseball tee.

Come play, improve your skills, and enjoy the summer outdoors!

For our last night together, we will have a special Under the Lights game at Red Haddox Field.

Note the updated location and time for July 28.

When:
- Tuesdays, June 16 - July 21, 6:30 - 8 p.m.
- Tuesday, July 28, 7:30 - 9 p.m.
Where:
- June 16 - July 21: Gene Kelly Playfield , 200-298, E. 104th St.
- July 28: Red Haddox Field at Valley View Park, 360 E. 90th St.
Cost: $70
Transportation: TRAIL ride available.

Registration

Deadline: One week prior to each event date or until full.
Online: Webtrac
Phone: 952-563-8877 or MN Relay 711

Winter Sports Sampler (winter)

THIS PROGRAM HAS BEEN CANCELED

man in yellow coat on blue sled while man in black coat with orange sled cheers him on

Bundle up and join us for a day of winter fun. Try out different activity stations including:

Sledding
Ice skating
Snowshoeing
Fat tire biking

After your outdoor adventure, warm up with a cup of hot cocoa!

When: Saturday, February 21, 2026, 1 - 3 p.m. (CANCELED)
~~Where:~~ ~~Brookside Park, 10000 Xerxes Ave. S.~~
Cost: $12.50
Transportation: TRAIL ride available.

Registration

Deadline: One week prior to each program date or until full.
Online: Webtrac
Phone: 952-563-8877 or MN Relay 711

Drop-In Programs

Board Games (year-round)

five adults playing a board game similar to monopoly

Adult Adaptive Board Games

Join us each month for a drop-in program full of games, friendly competition, and plenty of fun!

We’ll have a variety of board games available to choose from. Whether you come solo or bring a whole group, everyone is welcome.

When: First Wednesday of each month
Time: 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Where: Logan Lodge,9930 Logan Ave. S.
Cost: Free!
Transportation: TRAIL ride available.

Crafts (year-round)

four people at a table painting birdhouses during an adaptive crafts activity

Adult Adaptive Crafts

Join us each month for a drop-in program featuring a new craft project.

We’ll provide all the supplies and guide you step-by-step to create something fun and unique.

When: Third Wednesday of each month
Time: 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Where: Logan Lodge,9930 Logan Ave. S.
Cost: Free!
Transportation: TRAIL ride available.

Dance Your Socks Off (fall, winter, spring)

Get ready to dance your socks off!

Our monthly Friday night dances are a great way to connect with friends, meet new people, and enjoy a fun night out. Each themed dance features a live DJ, door prizes and an inclusive, welcoming atmosphere. Don't miss out on the fun!

The door prize drawing is at the end of the dance; you must be present to win.

When: See schedule below
Time: 7 - 9 p.m. Doors open at 6:50 p.m.
Where: Valley View Middle School, 8900 Portland Ave. S.
Cost: $6, cash-only at the door. Includes one free beverage ticket.
Refreshments: Entry fee includes one free beverage ticket.
- Additional beverage tickets can be purchased for $1 each (cash only).
- City of Bloomington is not responsible for dietary restrictions or food allergies.
- Participants must bring a support person if help is needed monitoring or consuming refreshments.
Transportation: TRAIL ride available.

Adults participating in a Dance Your Socks Off adaptive dance event

2025/2026 EVENT SCHEDULE

Friday, October 25, 2025: Halloween Dance
Get your Monster Mash on and show off your spook-tacular costume.

Dance Your Socks Off Halloween Dance October 2023 graphic

Friday, November 21, 2025: Tropical Beach Party
Grab your favorite Hawaiian shirt and dance the night a-lei.

Friday, December 12, 2025: Flannel Ball
Wear your favorite flannel or plaid and bring those cozy lumberjack vibes to the dance floor.

Dance Your Socks Off Flannel Ball December 2023 graphic

Friday, January 16, 2026: Winter Dance
Bundle up in cozy winter style and dance away the winter blues.

Dance Your Socks Off Winter Dance graphic

Friday, February 13, 2026: Valentine's Dance
Grab your sweetie and your friends, wear your red or pink, and celebrate love and friendship.

Friday, March 20, 2026: St. Patrick's Dance
Find your inner Irish, wear your best green, and sham-rock the dance floor.

Friday, April 17, 2026: Spring Fling
Spring has sprung! Show off your bright spring style and dance away the winter blues

Registration

Advance registration is not required. The $6 entry fee can be paid at the door, cash only.
To pay by credit card, register in advance
- Online: Webtrac
- Phone: 952-563-8877, MN Relay 711

Other Important Information

Doors open at 6:50 p.m. You aren't allowed to enter early.
Dances end at 9:00 p.m. We aren't responsible for people waiting for transportation.
You must arrange your own transportation.
You must bring your own support person if needed. You don't pay admission for a support person.
We'll serve drinks during the dance. We're not responsible for diet restrictions or food allergies. You must bring a support person if you need help monitoring or consuming refreshments.
You must stay in the designated area for the activity.
You can't smoke anywhere on the property during the dance.
We don't recommend consuming alcohol before the dance. We won't allow or serve alcohol.
You can dress up to go with the dance theme. We may ask you to leave if your outfit is offensive or questionable.
We give out door prizes at the end of the dance. You MUST be present to win! No exceptions.

Open Gym (year-round)

Smiling adult playing basketball in a brightly-lit gym

Join us each month for a drop-in program where you can participate in a variety of recreation activities like pickleball, table tennis, basketball, and more.

We’ll provide all equipment. This is a free play time to bring your energy and have fun staying active.

When: Second Friday of each month
Time: 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Where: Substance Church Gym, 6900 W. 115th St.
Cost: Free!
Transportation: TRAIL ride available.

Wii Bowling (year-round)

Looking at a man from behind as he plays bowling videogame on a Nintendo Wii

Join us each month for a drop-in program where you can bowl strikes and spares right from the comfort of our community space.

All equipment is provided, so just bring your enthusiasm and get ready to roll into some friendly competition and good times.

When: Fourth Monday of each month.
Time: 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Where: Logan Lodge, 9930 Logan Ave. S.
Cost: Free!
Transportation: TRAIL ride available.

Additional Opportunities

Additional Information

Staff Support

We are committed to making our programs accessible and creating a successful experience for all participants. We are happy to work with you to better understand individual needs and discuss available supports prior to participation.

Pre-Registration Programs

For our pre-registration programs, the staff-to-participant ratio is approximately 1:5.

During the registration process, we ask questions to help us learn how we can support each participant.
If additional support needs are identified, staff will follow up to discuss those needs and determine what accommodations may be available.
While we do our best to meet individual needs, we are not able to guarantee 1:1 staff support.

Drop-In Programs

For our drop-in programs, the staff-to-participant ratio is approximately 1:15.

These programs are designed for participants who can engage more independently in activities.
Participants who require a higher level of support are welcome to attend with their own support person.
There is no additional cost for a support person to attend; however, the City does not reimburse participants for the cost of their personal support person.

If you want to discuss specific program or support needs in more detail, please contact Matt Colwell, Recreation Supervisor, at 952-563-4872 or MDColwell@BloomingtonMN.gov.

TRAIL Transportation

TRAIL provides transportation to AR&LE participants ages 21+ living independently/semi-independently in Bloomington, Richfield, Edina and Eden Prairie who have completed the TRAIL registration process.

If you are a certified TRAIL rider and want transportation to a program, please check the TRAIL box when registering or contact Matt Colwell at 952-563-4872 or MDColwell@BloomingtonMN.gov.

If you have questions regarding your TRAIL status or want to learn more about applying, check out https://www.reachforresources.org/services/trail/.

Weather and Cancellations

INCLEMENT WEATHER

If there is bad weather, we will follow this procedure:

The program coordinator will decide if the program will be canceled.
By 4 p.m., the City will email all registered participants and update the weather line at 952-563-8878, option 5.
If there is bad weather after 4 p.m., the City will update the weather line and call participants as soon as possible.

CANCELLATIONS

Due to lack of enrollment: 100% refund
Cancellation by participant:
- Prior to registration deadline: 100% refund, less $10 processing fee
- After registration deadline: No refund

Fee Assistance

Fee Assistance is available for adaptive recreation participants who live in Bloomington only. You must show a financial need to receive fee assistance for eligible programs and services.

You must complete an application to receive Fee Assistance. Your application must include the correct paperwork proving financial need. Each person in your account will receive a scholarship. Each child under 18 may receive up to $450. Each adult 18 and over may receive up to $40.

Application documents can be found at the Fee Assistance link below. The City will respond to your application in writing within 5 business days of receipt of the application. Awarded scholarships will be valid for the calendar year.

You must reapply for Fee Assistance each year.

Find the application and learn more at on the Fee Assistance web page.

AR&LE

AR&LE stands for Adaptive Recreation & Learning Exchange. The cities of Bloomington, Eden Prairie, Edina and Richfield have teamed together to offer specialized recreation programs and services specifically designed for people with disabilities. AR&LE has provided recreation, enrichment and social options for more than 40 years.

Through AR&LE, Bloomington residents are welcome to choose from adaptive offerings available through any of the four cities in the cooperative.

Learn more about AR&LE programs at www.arlemn.org.

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Contact Information

Parks and Recreation Department

952-563-8877

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Adaptive Recreation

Welcome to Adaptive Recreation with the City of Bloomington!

Pre-Registration Programs

Drop-In Programs

Additional Information

Quick Links

Contact Information

Parks and Recreation Department