For many, the thought of enduring the winter months in Minneapolis-St. Paul might conjure images of relentless snow and biting winds. However, for the hearty souls who call the Twin Cities home, winter is not a season to be feared, but rather a time to embrace the unique opportunities it presents. Imagine yourself gliding across a frozen pond on ice skates, the crisp air invigorating your senses, or perhaps patiently waiting for a bite while ice fishing on a shimmering, snow-covered lake. The possibilities for outdoor recreation are abundant, from exhilarating sledding adventures and graceful cross-country skiing to friendly snowball fights amidst a picturesque winter landscape. Beyond the individual pursuits, the Twin Cities come alive with festivals, live music performances, and thrilling hockey games that ignite the community spirit. And if the allure of the indoors proves too strong, fear not, for Minneapolis-St. Paul offers a wealth of indoor activities to transform the coldest days into cherished memories. This guide will navigate you through the myriad of ways to make the most of your time in this captivating winter wonderland, ensuring an unforgettable experience in the [Minneapolis-St. Paul] area.
1. Immerse Yourself in Nordic Culture at Ingebretsen’s Nordic Marketplace
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Scandinavia at Ingebretsen’s Nordic Marketplace. This beloved institution, established in 1921 as the Model Meat Market, has evolved into a comprehensive emporium of Nordic delights. Beyond its traditional butcher shop and deli, Ingebretsen’s boasts a captivating needlework store and even a classroom for those eager to delve into Scandinavian crafts. For over a century, this family-owned establishment has been the go-to destination for authentic Scandinavian fare, delectable treats, and exquisite crafts. Hailing from Norway, Ingebretsen’s offers an extensive array of Scandinavian breads, cheeses, jams, candies, cookies, spices, canned fish, beverages, and traditional veggie mixes, tantalizing the taste buds with authentic flavors. In addition, you’ll discover a captivating selection of books and arts and crafts supplies, inspiring you to embark on a creative journey into the world of knitting, stitching, or painting during your stay in the [Minneapolis-St. Paul] area.
Address: 1601 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55407, USA
Phone: +1 612-729-9333
2. Discover Nature’s Wonders at Como Park Zoo and Conservancy
Escape the urban hustle and bustle at Como Park Zoo and Conservancy, a serene oasis nestled perfectly between Minneapolis and St. Paul. This beloved destination offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, captivating wildlife, and artistic inspiration. Lose yourself in the tranquility of colorful gardens, admire stunning sculptures and other works of art, and if the spirit moves you, take a nostalgic spin on Cafesjian’s Carousel, a historic antique carousel adorned with 68 hand-carved horses, 18 original paintings, and a meticulously restored Wurlitzer 153-band organ. The Charlotte Partridge Ordway Japanese Garden, Lily Pond, Water Gardens, and Sunken Garden are particularly enchanting, showcasing the artistry of landscape design. The Zoo provides a glimpse into the animal kingdom, featuring majestic lions, graceful tigers, and other fascinating creatures from around the globe. Como Park Zoo and Conservatory offers a delightful escape for visitors of all ages, providing a memorable experience amidst the beauty of nature.
Address: 1225 Estabrook Dr, St Paul, MN 55103, USA
Phone: +1 651-487-8201
3. Experience the Thrill of Snow Tubing
Embrace the childlike wonder of winter with an exhilarating snow tubing adventure. If you’ve never felt the rush of careening down a snow-covered hill on an inner tube, now is the time to experience this quintessential winter pastime. Fortunately, the [Minneapolis-St. Paul] area offers numerous locations to indulge in this thrilling activity. The Tubing Hill, operated by the Loppet Foundation and situated behind the trailhead at Theodore Wirth Regional Park, is a popular choice. Open on weekends throughout the winter, it features a convenient tow rope, eliminating the need to trudge uphill with your tube. Please note that children must be at least 44 inches tall to participate. Remember to dress warmly and maximize your fun within the allotted two-hour timeframe. Other popular snow tubing destinations in Minneapolis-St. Paul include Trapp Farm Park, Buck Hill, Green Acres Recreation Area, and Elm Creek Park Reserve in Maple Grove.
Address: 2117 West River Rd N, Minneapolis, MN 55422, USA
Phone: +1 612-230-6400
4. Explore the Enchanting Ice Castles Minnesota
Prepare to be mesmerized by the breathtaking Ice Castles Minnesota, typically open from January through March in Long Lake Regional Park, a mere 20 minutes from downtown Minneapolis. This extraordinary attraction invites guests to explore magnificent castles meticulously crafted from over 20 million pounds of ice. Each day, approximately 12,000 ice crystals are cultivated, ensuring the ice castle art installations remain in pristine condition. Visitors can wander through intricate ice mazes, discover the hidden wonders of ice caverns, crawl through enchanting tunnels made of ice, and race down exhilarating ice slides. Ice Castles Minnesota is a captivating winter attraction for children, families, couples, and the young at heart, offering an unforgettable experience amidst a fantastical ice kingdom. The attraction, which originated in 2011 and now graces five states, has also become a popular destination for romantic proposals, with private arctic alcoves available for special events.
5. Glide Through Winter Landscapes on Cross-Country Skis
For those who appreciate the invigorating exercise and serene beauty of cross-country skiing, the Twin Cities offer an abundance of trails winding through picturesque parks and gardens. In Minneapolis, Theodore Wirth Park boasts an impressive 15.5 miles of trails catering to all skill levels, from beginner to advanced. A 1.25-mile lighted trail provides an opportunity for evening skiing under the stars. Nearby, the Columbia Golf Course also offers several miles of scenic trails. In St. Paul, Fort Snelling State Park features 12 miles of scenic trails with breathtaking river views, while Como Park is renowned for its exceptional trails within the Metro area. The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, near the University of Minnesota, is a particularly stunning location for skiing, as is Lebanon Hills Regional Park in Eagan, approximately 25 minutes away. For those who prefer to observe rather than participate, the City of Lakes Loppet, a cross-country skiing festival held in late January or early February, features exciting races and a mesmerizing torchlit event through Minneapolis.
Address: 2117 West River Rd N, Minneapolis, MN 55422, USA
Phone: +1 612-230-6400
6. Test Your Patience and Skill with Ice Fishing
Embrace the quintessential Minnesota winter tradition of ice fishing. Whether you join a group on the ice at a resort or hire a knowledgeable guide, ice fishing offers a unique and rewarding experience. Alternatively, if you possess a fishing pole, a license, and a tool to create a hole in the ice, you can easily embark on a solo adventure. Near Minneapolis, Lake Nokomis, Lake Harriet, and Fort Snelling State Park are popular destinations for this time-honored sport. Every winter, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources hosts "Take a Kid Ice Fishing Weekend," an event that allows residents to fish or spear fish free of charge and without a license, provided they are accompanied by a child age 15 or under. Participating state parks provide all the necessary gear and guide families through the entire process, from drilling holes to preventing them from freezing over.
Address: 101 Snelling Lake Rd, St Paul, MN 55111, USA
Phone: +1 612-279-3550
7. Celebrate Winter at the Wintertime Festivals
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit of the Twin Cities at the annual Winter Carnival, held in St. Paul in late January and early February. This major event features magnificent ice and snow sculptures, traditional Minnesotan cuisine, and a grand parade through downtown St. Paul. Typically, the carnival includes three parades: the Moon Glow Pedestrian Parade, the Grand Day Parade, and the Vulcan Victory Torchlight Parade, along with other exciting events such as an ice fishing tournament and a drive-thru ice sculpture park. Most festivities are free, open to the public, and take place in downtown Saint Paul near Rice Park and Landmark Center or at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. Holidazzle, a beloved Loring Park tradition, offers a Minneapolis-centric experience featuring local businesses and products. This special event, which runs from Thanksgiving until Christmas, attracts visitors with its dazzling lights and seasonal music. Enjoy prepared food and beverages, packaged food, merchandise, free music, and other festive and family-friendly entertainment suitable for all ages.
Address: Landmark Center, 75 W 5th St #429, St Paul, MN 55102, USA
Phone: +1 651-223-7400
8. Explore the Thriving Craft Beer Scene
Warm up from the inside out by exploring the dynamic craft beer scene of Minneapolis-St. Paul. While the Great Lakes region has long been a prominent player in the American beer industry, Minneapolis is rapidly gaining recognition as one of the best cities in the U.S. to discover exceptional small-batch brews. From brewpubs to beer halls, an increasing number of restaurants are opting to fill their taps exclusively with locally brewed beers. To experience the Minneapolis-St. Paul craft beer scene firsthand, visit the Summit Brewing Company in St. Paul or the Surly Brewery Co. in nearby Brooklyn Center.
Address: 910 Montreal Cir, St Paul, MN 55102, USA
Phone: +1 651-265-7800
9. Spark Imagination at the Minnesota Children’s Museum
When the weather outside is frightful, the Minnesota Children’s Museum in downtown St. Paul offers a captivating indoor environment for children up to 10 years old. This interactive museum is dedicated to entertaining and educating young minds. With exhibits where children can play with building blocks, create their own art masterpieces, splash and play with a water table, experience an immersive shipwreck, climb a 40-foot catwalk, slide down slides, and reenact real-life scenarios in a pretend post office, fire station, and farmers market, there’s ample opportunity to keep them engaged for hours.
Address: 10 7th St W, St Paul, MN 55102, USA
Phone: +1 651-225-6000
10. Traverse the Minneapolis Skyway System
Escape the harsh winter elements by exploring the extensive Minneapolis Skyway System. This network of enclosed pedestrian bridges connects corporate offices, bars, restaurants, bakeries, hotels, government services, retail shops, gyms, grocery stores, liquor stores, banks, doctors’ offices, dentists’ offices, massage therapists, pharmacies, hair and nail salons, dry cleaners, live theaters, three professional sports facilities, a church, and art exhibits, among other metropolitan businesses and attractions. The 9.5 miles of pathways connect 80 city blocks, providing a convenient and comfortable way to navigate downtown Minneapolis. Be sure to check the Skyway System’s schedule, as it does have closing hours.
Address: Minneapolis, MN 55402, USA
Phone: +1 612-520-1234
