Why Minnesota is a Top Spot for Winter
Why Minnesota is a Top Spot for Winter
It's a common question: What is winter really like in Minnesota? Well, we're happy to report that winter isn’t a season here; it’s a state of mind supported by a seemingly endless array of special events and excuses to embrace the cold.
Experience Minnesota's winter wonderland on cross-country skis / Paul Vincent
Why not, right? After all, Minnesotans are just as likely to spend an afternoon ice fishing as they are tearing up a trail in cross-country skis or snowshoes.
If you’d rather stay indoors until spring, we’ve got that covered too, with everything from world renowned restaurants and iconic cultural institutions to saunas, cabins and dark sky destinations that look as if they were lifted straight out of Scandinavia.
Here are the many reasons why Minnesota is the spot for making the most of winter....
Ice Castles in New Brighton / Ryan Taylor
MINNESOTA ON ICE
We don't just survive the winter; we thrive! From ice golf, ice sculptures, ice mazes, and Ice Castles, a Minnesota winter is a sight to see. We're even dining in and on ice at our popular ice bars and igloo dining spots. The Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza is the world's largest charitable ice fishing tournament and is held annually on Gull Lake in Brainerd with more than 10,000 anglers taking to the ice.
Ice houses dot the frozen lakes across the state including Lake of the Woods and Lake Mille Lacs. Find ones equipped with bunk beds, televisions, kitchenettes, and more. On Lake of the Woods, don’t miss the iconic Igloo Bar, a full-fledged sports bar with satellite TV, propane heat, running hot water, hoodie-clad bartenders, drinks, soup, sandwiches, and pizza.
Ice skating at Boyd Lodge in Crosslake / Credit: Buffalo Media Group
Lace up your skates and head north to The Riverbend Skate Path in Warroad, which spans for five miles making it the longest ice-skating trail in the United States. In the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, visit the Guidant John Rose MN OVAL in Roseville, the Central Park Ice Skating Loop in Maple Grove, the Centennial Lakes Park in Edina, and more.
Find more places to go ice skating in Minnesota.
The Nordic Village at Riva Terrace / Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis
ROMANCE
Snow gently falling on an evergreen forest while you sip hot cocoa in front of a fire is just about the most romantic thing we can think of. Celebrate the season of love in Minnesota at a cozy cabin getaway or spa and resort. Or, book a boutique hotel, then make reservations at one of Minnesota’s most romantic restaurants.
You can also visit the cozy Nordic Village at the Four Seasons and experience a four-course meal in an intimate log cabin — right in the middle of the city. While you’re downtown, see what’s playing at the always-cozy Dakota Jazz Club or get swept away by the Minnesota Orchestra.
Mall of America / Credit: Paul Vincent
TAX-FREE SHOPPING
Tax-free clothing and shoes? Say less. Whether you’re making a day out of experiencing the massive Mall of America, perusing local shops on a plethora of Main Streets, or hunting for treasures at vintage stores, there's something for everyone.
Don't miss out on upscale shopping centers like the Galleria and Southdale either. They're where you’ll find everything from high-end brands to local favorites.
Parc / Credit: Dina Kantor
You can also shop sustainably as you explore local boutiques and thrift in well-curated spaces. And if you're into unique, handmade finds, Minnesota's thriving community of makers will win you over.
Get ready to shop till you drop — without worrying about extra costs!