Winter in Minnesota isn’t just about bundling up and waiting for spring. It’s a season filled with adventure, cosy escapes, and unique experiences that make the cold more than worth it. Whether you’re looking for outdoor thrills, a lively atmosphere, or a quiet retreat, there’s something for everyone. Here’s how to make the most of the season.
Glide Across the Ice
Minnesota is home to some of the best ice skating spots in the country, from urban rinks to frozen lakes that stretch for miles. The Wells Fargo WinterSkate in St. Paul offers a picturesque setting, while Lake of the Isles in Minneapolis lets skaters glide through a scenic, tree-lined loop. If you’re feeling daring, head up north to one of the state’s natural ice trails, like the one at Warroad, where you can skate for miles under the open sky.
Explore a Winter Wonderland on Skis or Snowshoes
For those who love the outdoors, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are perfect ways to experience Minnesota’s snow-covered forests. Theodore Wirth Park in Minneapolis provides well-groomed trails close to the city, while Gooseberry Falls State Park on the North Shore offers breathtaking views of frozen waterfalls. Snowshoeing through the quiet woods of Itasca State Park can feel like stepping into a snow globe, with towering pines heavy with frost.
Catch the Northern Lights
While many people associate the northern lights with places like Alaska or Iceland, Minnesota offers its own stunning displays. On clear winter nights, head to spots like Voyageurs National Park or Grand Marais, where the dark skies provide the perfect backdrop for nature’s light show. The auroras dance in green, purple, and blue, creating a mesmerising experience that’s worth braving about the cold.
Warm Up with a Winter Festival
Minnesota knows how to celebrate the season. The St. Paul Winter Carnival, one of the oldest winter festivals in the country, features ice sculptures, parades, and even a medallion treasure hunt. Further north, the Ely Winter Festival brings together artists, mushers, and outdoor enthusiasts for days of fun. If you’re looking for something a little quirky, the International Eelpout Festival in Walker celebrates one of the state’s oddest fish with ice fishing, live music, and a party atmosphere like no other.
Experience the Latest Casino Games
If you’re looking for excitement indoors, Minnesota’s casinos provide a warm and lively escape from the cold with all the best casino games. Mystic Lake Casino, the largest in the state, offers a wide selection of slot machines, poker, and table games, along with top-tier entertainment and dining options. Whether you’re trying your luck or just looking for a night out, the energy here makes it a great place to spend a winter evening.
Go Dog Sledding
For a truly unforgettable experience, take a dog sledging tour through Minnesota’s backcountry. Outfits in Ely and along the Gunflint Trail offer guided excursions where you can learn to mush your own team or simply enjoy the ride. The combination of speed, silence, and stunning scenery makes it one of the unique winter activities in the state.
Take a Cozy Cabin Getaway
Sometimes, the best way to enjoy winter is to slow down. Renting a cabin in the woods, whether on the North Shore or in the Brainerd Lakes area, provides the perfect chance to unwind by the fire with a book or watch the snow fall from a hot tub. Many resorts offer winter packages with activities like ice fishing, snowmobiling, and guided hikes, so you can strike the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.
Minnesota’s winters may be long, but they’re anything but boring. Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors, enjoying a festival, or spending an evening at a lively casino, there are plenty of ways to embrace the season.
