• Plan your surprise birthday party to complement Minneapolis' offerings.surprise image by Melissa Schalke from Fotolia.com
  
  A surprise birthday requires few extra elements -- an unexpected birthday celebration will be memorable regardless of the venue or decor. However, when in the Twin Cities, there are a broad spectrum of destinations, themes and possibilities available for your next surprise party, regardless of the birthday boy or girl's age. Pick out an unusual venue or theme to throw a surprise party that will offer something a little different to all the guests.
  
  

Party at the Park

• During the warmer months, Minneapolis' Minnehaha Park makes an excellent birthday party venue. Spanning over 193 acres, the park includes a 53-foot waterfall, limestone bluffs and many views of the Mississippi River. Surprise guests can leap out from behind varied flora, including oak, elm, silver maple and cottonwood trees, plus native woodland wild flowers. For entertainment, bring a picnic or coordinate the party to coincide with one of the park's concerts. The park can even accommodate the needs of larger parties, with a four reservable picnic shelters and renovated bathrooms. For active guests, there are volleyball courts. If your guest of honor is a dog lover, move festivities to the south of the park, where four-legged friends can roam without leashes.
  
  Minnehaha Park
  
  4801 South Minnehaha Park Dr.
  
  Minneapolis, MN 55417
  
  612-230-6400
  
  minneapolisparks.org
  
  

Kitschy Evening Out

• A bar that strives to fulfill its reputation as a "dive," Psycho Suzi's Motor Lounge features a tiki-lounge theme plus casual dining options, such as "World Famous Minneapolis Pizza" and pu-pu platters. For a whimsical party venue, bring your unsuspecting guest of honor, blindfolded, to celebrate in luau style. The bar offers a patio, ideal for spring and summer birthdays.
  
  Psycho Suzi's Motor Lounge
  
  2519 Marshall Street NE
  
  Minneapolis, MN 55418
  
  612-788-9069
  
  psychosuzis.com
  
  

Night at the Theater

• For a birthday just behind the footlights, throw a surprise party at Minneapolis' acclaimed Guthrie Theater. For a luxurious affair, opt for the theater's "As You Like It Party Package," including a unique party venue, hors d'oeuvres, a private bar and a one-hour professional class with Guthrie's staff. Should you prefer a simpler evening, arrange a dinner at one of the Guthrie's five dining venues, and follow with a block of tickets to see the running show. Buying 15 tickets or more entitles you to discounted prices. For an added touch, arrange for a backstage tour or a post-play discussion.
  
  Guthrie Theater
  
  818 South 2nd Street
  
  Minneapolis, MN 55415
  
  612-377-2224
  
  guthrietheater.org