minnesota winter tourism

16 Unforgettable Places In Minnesota That Everyone Must Visit This Winter

Jo Magliocco

Minnesota staff writer for Only in Your State and owner of Minnesota blog NorthGuide.co, I'm a Minneapolis transplant who loves my cats, camera, and local coffee. On the weekends I'm usually exploring the North Shore or making my way through the list of Minnesota's State Parks. Want to talk about MN or ask me a question? Tweet me @sotafiedjo!

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Winter is definitely upon us and it’s time that we reap the benefits of this beautiful, albeit cold, season. From the northernmost tip (or angle) to the southernmost prairie, Minnesota is one of the most spectacular places to enjoy winter. Yes it’s cold, and yes that’s a bummer, but there are so many fun things to do, and so many stunning views to capture. And while this is just a sampling of places to visit in Minnesota in winter, it will get you started in providing an action-packed winter for you, your friends, and your family. Once you start checking these things off your winter bucket list, you’ll begin feeling amazingly grateful to be living in Minnesota.

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Have you been to any of these places? What are some other places to visit in Minnesota in winter that you enjoy? Share your ideas and then your photos on our Facebook Page to inspire your fellow Minnesotans and get started on making your Minnesota winter bucket list!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Winter in minnesota.

What are some great places for winter activities in Minnesota?

There’s no better time to embrace the cold than when it comes to winter activities in Minnesota. If you’re looking to be inspired for more things to do this winter, check out some of the following ideas:

• Walk through Minnesota’s largest light display.
• Ride a snow slide at Vulcan Snow Park.
• Go for a winter hike.
• Check out all the festivities and charms in Minnesota’s many small towns.
• Stroll through an ice castle.

For more information on these activities and more, check out this article on winter fun in Minnesota .

Where are some of the best places to visit in Minnesota in winter?

Sometimes the best way to take in the beauty of Minnesota in the winter is to hop in the car and go for a drive. Here are some roads that are filled with gorgeous winter scenery:

• Glacial Ridge Trail
• Gunflint Trail
• Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway

Check out this list for more information about these and other s cenic winter drives in Minnesota .

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7 MN Winter Weekend Getaways: Winter Escapes

Winter is here and it’s time to get out of the house with a MN Winter Weekend Getaway. Pick a cozy lodge or an outdoor adventure. No matter what your tastes, you’ll enjoy winter in Minnesota at these 7 Minnesota Winter Weekend Getaways.

After a day on the slopes, warm up by the stone fireplace at Lutsen Lodge. The leather chairs and hand-hewn fireplaces offer a classic North Shore experience. Dine at the lodge’s lakeside dining room, or enjoy the pool and sauna.

• Naniboujou Lodge, Grand Marais, MN : Enjoy the warmth of the largest native stone fire place in the state at Naniboujou Lodge , north of Grand Marais. The lodge’s large dining room, centered by the stone fireplace, offers an escape from the cold. Open for eight “Winter Weekends” January through March, Naniboujou’s winter package includes lodging plus all meals. Nearby, snowshoe at Judge Magney State Park, enjoy the galleries of Grand Marais, or take in the unique winter views of Lake Superior.
• Bearskin Lodge, Gunflint Trail, MN: Head to the Gunflint Trail for the best of Minnesota winter. If you’ve never experienced night skiing, try Bearskin Lodge’s 1.5 km of lighted trails. Snowshoe across the north woods or along Bearskin Lake on the resort’s groomed trails. Enjoy broomball, ice skating on the lake, dog sledding and snowmobile trails. After, warm up by the fire in one of the lodge’s log cabins. Every Saturday through March, enjoy fine dining in the Bearskin dining room. Chef Scott Bergstrom prepares a changing menu throughout the winter.
• MN State Park Cabins: More than two dozen Minnesota State Parks offer cabin rentals, and many are open all winter long. Heated cabins provide a unique opportunity to enjoy the parks even in the winter. Throughout the season, many of the state’s parks offer events and classes to help you take on a new wintertime activity. Learn to ice fish with your children, snowshoe, take a winter bird watching course, or ski by candlelight. Special activities include an old time logging demonstration at Itasca State Park, snowshoe lacing at Lac Qui Parle State Park and digital photography for kids at Sibley State Park.
• Giants Ridge, Biwabik, MN: For those who want to sample a little bit of everything this winter, head to Giants Ridge in Biwabik, MN . Visitors will be hard-pressed to find a winter activity that’s not offered here. Enjoy alpine and Nordic skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling (including snowmobile rentals), tubing, a sliding hill and nearby ice fishing. Two restaurants, a cafeteria and a coffee shop will keep you well fed throughout your stay.
• Grand Ely Lodge, Ely, MN: Located just a mile from downtown Ely, Grand Ely Lodge offers a winter weekend getaway for all tastes. Head downtown for dining and shopping, or head outside for ice fishing, snowmobiling and cross country skiing. The lodge offers fish house rentals on Shagawa Lake and is nearby miles of groomed snowmobile trails.
• Thumper Pond Resort, Ottertail, MN: If a splash in the waterpark is on your list this winter, head to Thumper Pond Resort resort in Ottertail, MN. Its 12,000 square foot indoor waterpark has a Northwoods theme with activities for all ages, including slides, water geysers, an activity pool, a lazy river and an 18-person whirlpool.  Once you dry off, head out to the more than 500-miles of snowmobile trails in the area, cross country ski on groomed trails at the resort, or ice fish at nearby lakes.

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10 Fun Things To Do In Minnesota In Winter

With picturesque, snow-covered parks, seasonal festivals and thousands of trails designed for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling, these are the best things to do in Minnesota in winter.

Winter in Minnesota is a magical time filled with fun outdoor activities, winter carnivals and plenty of holiday shopping.

If you’ve ever wanted to try festive winter activities like ice skating, dog sledding, skiing or ice fishing, visiting Minnesota in winter will provide you with the perfect opportunity!

If you feel like the weather is a bit too cold for you, there are plenty of fun winter events in Minnesota that take place indoors too. You can stay toasty all while soaking up the magic of winter.

Do you need some help planning your Minnesota winter itinerary? In this quick guide, I’ve rounded up all the best things to do in Minnesota in winter. This is guaranteed to get you excited for the holiday season.

Weather in Minnesota in winter 

Winter in Minnesota is cold, snowy and windy. The cold season in Minnesota lasts about 3 ½ months.

Be sure to pack a really warm winter jacket. You’ll need it, as average daily temperatures range from -2°C (28.4°F) in November to -13°C (8.6°F) in January! Brrr! It’s also worth noting that blizzards hit Minnesota twice each winter on average.

If you really can’t hack the cold, read my guide to a Minnesota road trip – this was one I did in the summer, so it’s full of warm weather travel tips!

10 Best Things To Do In Minnesota In Winter

Enjoy festive fun at the saint paul winter carnival.

One of the most popular things to do in Minnesota in winter is attending the Saint Paul Winter Carnival . This carnival takes place between the months of January and February, and this season will take place from Jan 25th 2024 – Feb 3rd 2024.

It’s an amazing experience filled with exciting, family-friendly activities like scavenger hunts, ice fishing and even two holiday parades!

Go Snowmobiling 

Minnesota has plenty of fresh snow for you to speed over in a snowmobile! The Minnesota Department of National Resources even has a free guide to snowmobile trails .

Many are located inside beautiful Minnesota state parks like Theodore Wirth Park and Afton State Park. If you don’t own your own snowmobile, you can rent one in cities including Minneapolis or Brainerd. 

Visit an Interactive Ice Castle

Every winter in Minnesota the locals build some amazing ice castles by growing their own icicles! Once the ice is ready, it’s harvested and then shaped into a giant ice castle filled with tunnels, slides and LED lights.

You don’t want to miss this enchanting event! Each year the location of the castle moves, so be sure to check its whereabouts before planning your trip. 

Spend a day ice skating

There are plenty of opportunities for a fun day of ice skating in Minnesota! The city of Roseville has a fantastic outdoor skating rink as does Rice Park in St. Paul. 

But if you want the most magical experience, try Centennial Lakes in Edina. This rink consists of 3 ponds all connected by a canal system. After ice skating, you can warm up with a toasty hot chocolate or something a little stronger!

Explore some trails in winter

Don’t let the chilly weather in Minnesota keep you indoors! All you need to do is dress correctly for the temperatures. Wrap up warm and get out there and explore the thousands of trails Minnesota offers for snowshoeing, snowmobiling, fat biking and cross-country skiing. You’ll enjoy fantastic views of Minnesota’s wild and rugged landscape including mountains, rivers, lakes and more.

If you’d like to enjoy a simple evening stroll, Theodore Wirth Regional Park is right in the middle of Minneapolis. There you’ll find plenty of easy trails and other activities for year-round family fun. 

Go see the Northern lights 

The Aurora Borealis, most commonly known as the Northern Lights, shine sporadically over Minnesota. One of the best places to catch this amazing natural phenomenon is Voyageurs National Park .

Forget summer, the cold winter months are actually the best opportunity to see the Northern Lights, since the sky is darker during this time of the year. And don’t worry, if they aren’t active during your visit you can still see some amazing sights like the Milky Way, satellites, shooting stars, and more!

Check out the local craft beer and cocktail scene 

Looking for some things to do in Minnesota in winter that are indoors? When the weather gets a bit too cold, warm up with a craft cocktail or local beer! Did you know that Minnesota has over 100 breweries and taprooms across the state?

Craft cocktail enthusiasts simply must check out the fantastic tasting room at Crooked Water or the distillery tours and cocktail-making classes at the Norseman Distillery. If you’d prefer a craft beer to warm you up, try the Dangerous Man Brewing Company for a large collection of locally crafted beers!

Try skiing or snowboarding the slopes

Winter in Minnesota is all about winter sports! In fact, Minnesota has some of the highest hills in the Midwest. From Spirit Mountain in Duluth to Buck Hill where several famous ski stars began their careers, Minnesota might not have mountains but this state sure has some amazing hills! If you’re just starting out, many of these locations offer beginner courses too.

Be bold with a polar plunge!

How does diving into a frozen lake sound? I promise it’s not as bad as it sounds! If you travel to Minnesota during winter, the Polar Plunge is a unique, once-in-a-lifetime activity that will get your heart racing.

It’s held in 20 locations all over Minnesota. All the money raised goes towards the Special Olympics, so you’ll be taking the plunge for a good cause! It’s one of the most exhilarating Minnesota winter events! Will you be brave enough to try it?

Enjoy some sledding or tubing 

Before you head home from your Minnesota winter holiday, don’t forget to try sledding or tubing! It’s a really fun, family-friendly activity that anyone can enjoy.

There are plenty of snowy hills all over Minneapolis including Adams Hill Park and Afton State Park. These are the kind of activities that bring out the big kid in all of us!

Where to stay in Minnesota in winter

Good ol days resort.

Looking to spend a romantic winter getaway in Minnesota? Then you’ll love the Good Ol Days Resort. It’s a cosy and rustic family getaway located right on the shores of Lower Cullen Lake.

The resort features beautiful and well-manicured grounds where you can try fun winter activities like ice fishing and snowshoeing. Alternatively, just cosy up in front of one of the roaring log fire! 

There’s plenty to do and see in the area. Downtown Nisswa is just a short walk from the hotel. You can also try cross-country skiing and snowshoeing at the Pines Winter Recreation Centre. If you’re into skiing or snowboarding, the fantastic Mount Ski Gull is close by as well. 

The Chambers Hotel 

If you’re looking for a unique, boutique hotel in the twin cities, The Chambers Hotel is a fantastic choice. This historic boutique hotel is located in the heart of the theatre district, close to all the best dining, shopping and nightlife in downtown Minneapolis.

The legendary Orpheum Theatre is just next door too in case you fancy escaping the cold temperatures and seeing a Broadway show.

Graduate Minneapolis 

If you’re planning on visiting Minneapolis in winter, another excellent choice is the Graduate Minneapolis. This modern and sophisticated boutique hotel is located in the heart of UMN’s campus, just a stone’s throw from Coffman Memorial Union and the Gophers’ stadium.

Many of Minneapolis’ best restaurants and microbreweries are just a short drive away. Enjoy brunch beneath the trees at Aster Cafe or sip specialty cocktails at Nye’s Bar – a favourite amongst locals! 

I hope you enjoyed my guide to the best things to do in Minnesota in winter. During the cold winter months, Minnesota transforms into a winter wonderland, so any of these fun activities are guaranteed to warm you right up!

If you really can’t hack the cold, don’t miss my guide to our Minnesota road trip . I did this one in the summer, so it’s full of warm weather travel tips!

If you’re looking for other beautiful places to visit in winter, don’t miss these posts:

• 9 Fun Things To Do In Maine In Winter 
• 21 Amazing Things To Do In Montreal In Winter
• 9 Best Things To Do In Utah In Winter 
• 11 Amazing Things To Do In Denver In Winter
• 16 Amazing Things To Do In Breckenridge In Winter
• 9 Amazing Things To Do In New Jersey In Winter
• 8 Amazing Things To Do In Vermont In Winter
• 9 Amazing Things To Do In Lake Tahoe In Winter

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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10 Best Things To Do In Winter In Minnesota

November 5, 2023 by //  by  Midwest Explored Leave a Comment

Are you searching for fun things to do in winter in Minnesota? If the answer is yes, then keep reading on!

Minnesota, one of the best places to visit in the Midwest , offers a magical winter experience to tourists and locals alike. 

With fun winter festivals, snow-covered state parks, and adventurous snow activities like snowshoeing, skiing, etc., the state is a fun place to enjoy winters in the Midwest.

Minnesota winters can be a little harsh but if you are dressed well and prepared with the proper gear, you can easily make the most of it.

From the Ice Castles in New Brighton to the frozen Lake Nokomis, Minnesota has no shortage of cool places to visit during MN winters. 

Are you still unsure of what to do in winter? Then, check out our list of the 10 best things to do in winter in Minnesota.

10 Best Things To Do in Winter in Minnesota

Enjoy downhill skiing in minnesota.

One of the best ways to enjoy Minnesota winters is by indulging in downhill skiing.

There are lots of winter resorts in Minnesota that offer the best skiing experience. Out of these, Lutsen Mountains is home to the largest ski resort in the Midwest. 

Tourists can enjoy the Lake Superior views from here and have a variety of skiing packages and accommodations to choose from. 

Another great place to enjoy one of the top activities in Minnesota in winter is the Afton Alps.

Here, you can find both easy and difficult trails for not just skiing but snowboarding as well. Plus, it is just a 40-minute drive from Minneapolis. 

Trust me, if you are looking for fun things to do with friends in winter in Minnesota, then downhill skiing is a great choice.

Recommended Lodge for Ski Goers: Caribou Highlands Lodge

Check Prices: Booking.com

Attend the Winter Carnival in St. Paul

Are you looking for fun events in Minnesota in winter? 

If yes, then one of the fun things to do in St. Paul in winter is attending the famous Winter Carnival.

St. Paul Winter Carnival takes place every year in the months of January and February. This year, it will occur from January 25th, 2024 to February 3rd, 2024.

This is one of the best things to do in the winter with family.

The events take place throughout this charming town and most of them are free for the public.

A few top activities to enjoy are scavenger hunts, ice fishing, puzzle contests, and more.

One of the coolest things to enjoy in winter in Minnesota is the snow sculpture contest at Winter Carnival.

You will find lots of snow sculptures in this winter carnival that are absolutely gorgeous to look at. 

Apart from that, there is a parade as well in which you can admire decorated floats moving down the street.

If you are looking for winter getaways in Minnesota for your family, then St. Paul is definitely a top choice.

Recommended Hotel in St. Paul: SpringHill Suites St. Paul Downtown

Play Pond Hockey on Lake Nokomis

Well, it is no secret that Minnesota is proudly known as ‘The State of Hockey’. 

As a result, it is no surprise that one of the most popular outdoor winter activities to enjoy in MN is pond hockey!

Every year, hockey is played on the frozen lakes throughout the state, lending it the name ‘Pond Hockey’.

One of the best places for enjoying hockey in Minnesota winters is Lake Nokomis in Minneapolis. And guess what?

Every January, the U.S. Pond Hockey Championship is held here. Multiple rinks are set up on the lake and the players compete against each other.

Participating in this winter activity is one of the best things to do in Minneapolis in winter.

The aim of this winter event is to promote hockey in its natural setting, i.e. on a frozen pond/lake.

So, if you are looking for epic things to do with friends in winter in MN, then do try pond hockey.

Recommended Hotel for Staying: Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis

Explore the Magical Ice Castles in Minnesota

One of the most unique attractions in Minnesota in winter to enjoy is the famed Ice Castles.

After all, what could be more fun than playing inside an Ice Castle in winter in Minnesota?

Every year, you can find interactive ice castles created at different locations in Minnesota by the locals.

These ice castles are built by growing icicles in the Minnesota winter season. 

Once it is ready, the icicles are harvested and shaped into a huge ice castle. Tunnels, slides, and LED lights are added to give it a more magical feel.

Since each year, the location of the Ice Castles is different, make sure to check it before planning your trip.

Trust me, this is one of the top things to do in Minnesota that you cannot miss during the winter season.

Note : Currently, the Ice Castles for January 2024 are scheduled to be moved to a new location – Maple Grove, MN.

Recommended Hotel near Ice Castles: Waterwalk Minneapolis Plymouth

Winter Hiking or Camping In A Minnesota State Park

For those who love outdoor winter activities, one of the best winter getaways in Minnesota is the state parks.

There are many Minnesota state parks that are open during the winter for camping and hiking adventures. 

If you wish to see some amazing frozen falls, then visit the Gooseberry Falls State Park or Tettegouche State Park. 

There are plenty of great trails to enjoy both inside and outside the state parks. 

Plus, winter camping in Minnesota is a lot of fun. You can enjoy the snow-covered parks and mountains and have an exciting adventure.

A few of the best trails for hiking are the Quaking Bog Loop in Theodore Wirth Park, the Theodore Wirth Wildflower Trail, and so on.

So, if you are looking for fun activities in Minnesota in winter, do check out camping and hiking in MN state parks.

Recommended Stay near Gooseberry Falls State Park: North Shore Luxury Cabin By Gooseberry Falls Check Prices: Booking.com

Take a Drive to Watch the Kiwanis Holiday Lights

One of the best attractions in Minnesota in winter is the Kiwanis Holiday Lights in Mankato.

It is a 1.5-hour drive from Minneapolis and one of the top places to visit in Minnesota in winter. 

The Kiwanis Holiday Lights Show began in 2012 and is the perfect event to enjoy with your family and friends in the Minnesota winters.

The event is free and run by volunteers at the Sibley Park in Mankato. 

The light show begins after Thanksgiving with a fun, holiday-themed parade. 

At the parade, Santa flips the switch and illuminates the 2 million holiday lights. 

Visitors can enjoy a walk or a drive through the lights display and hum along to the merry tunes synced to the lights.

If you are in a holiday mood and planning a short family getaway in winter in Minnesota, then do visit Kiwanis Holiday Lights!

Recommended Hotel in Mankato: AmericInn by Wyndham Mankato Event Center near MSU

Spend A Day At The Frozen Minnehaha Falls (Or Other Frozen Falls!)

Another one of the great places to visit in Minnesota in winter is the Minnehaha Falls in Minneapolis. 

The waterfall flows 53 feet down from the Minnehaha Creek and is located in the center of the city. 

In the wintertime, the fall freezes and forms an ice cavern that you can admire from the Falls Viewing Area.

If you are looking for a slight adventure, you can also hike closer to this frozen fall and take some amazing photographs of it.

Apart from Minnehaha, there are many other beautiful frozen falls that you can visit in Minnesota.

Gooseberry Falls, Devil’s Kettle Falls, Winnewissa Falls, and Temperance River Falls are a few of the best places to visit in winter in MN.

So, if you are looking for the best things to do in the winter in MN, then don’t forget to add a visit to one of these mesmerizing frozen falls.

Recommended Hotel near Minnehaha Falls: SpringHill Suites St. Paul Downtown

Chasing The Northern Lights Is One Of The Best Things To Do During Winter In Minnesota

Did you know that you can witness the Northern Lights in Minnesota in winter?

Yes, you heard me right!

You don’t need to travel to Iceland or Sweden, you can watch this beauty in Northern Minnesota every year.

Since the Aurora Borealis is easily visible during the darker months, it is one of the best things to do in the winter in Minnesota.

One of the best places to watch this amazing phenomenon in Minnesota is the Voyageurs National Park.

You can also enjoy winter camping in Minnesota in this park to stay away from the lodge lights and increase your chances of viewing the Northern lights.

However, be prepared as it will get cold at night. 

But if you bear the cold, then one of the top things to do in Minnesota in winter is to watch the Northern Lights.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Cobblestone Hotel & Suites International Falls

Shop and Play Inside the Mall of America

If you are bored of the cliched suggestions for fun things to do in winter in Minnesota, then here is something unique – visit the Mall of America.

It is the largest mall in the United States and hosts a bunch of events in Minnesota in winter. 

During Christmas time, the mall is beautifully decorated and offers fun activities for visitors to indulge in. 

And let’s not forget the Black Friday deals during the month of November. With over 520 stores, shopping in Minnesota winters can be fun and cozy at this grand mall.

Trust me, if you are tired of playing out in the cold, then one of the best indoor things to do with friends in winter is to visit the Mall of America.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Radisson Blu Mall of America

Catch the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train Tour Event During Winter In Minnesota

Last, but not the least, if you are still asking yourself what to do in winter in Minnesota, then we got you.

One of the most epic things to do in Minnesota in winter is to attend the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train Event!

The train shows are free to attend but visitors are requested to bring cash or non-perishable food items to donate.

The donations will be used to fill up the local food bank to help the community. 

Apart from the goodwill, you get to enjoy lots of amazing musical performances at each stop. 

The train is 1000 feet long and features 14 that are decorated with thousands of LED lights. 

While you don’t get to ride the train, it is a great pop-up concert and an amazing way to celebrate the holiday. 

The train would be making 24 stops in various towns of Minnesota including Glenwood, Eden Valley, Alexandria, and more.

So, if you love concerts and holiday festivities, then do check out the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train!

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Alexandria Inn

Packing List When Visiting Minnesota In Winter

If you will be traveling, either by plane or by car to Minnesota, here are some  tips on how to pack lightly.

A  concealed travel pouch  may be one of the most important items you bring along when spending winter in Minnesota.

It is  always   important  to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

This  unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is  lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

You can place it under your clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with RFID protection, as I do, these  RFID sleeves are the perfect solution.

This configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet. 

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an  external charging battery .

This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery  is  the exact one  I carry with me on all of my trips.

It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone as I have. And wow is it fast!

My daughter gifted me with this  FugeTek selfie stick and tripod   setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking photos during your London activities.

You will want to bring your own  refillable water bottle  with you. 

I never leave home on a trip without my  Bobble filtration bottle .  The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

The replaceable carbon filter ensures clean drinking water when you want it.

Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle  would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all. 

You will want a  backpack or daypack  with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc…. No matter the time of day or evening.

This   foldable water-resistant backpack   would be great.

It is very affordable and is available in many color options for you to choose from. The fact that it folds down into a zippered pouch will make it easy to pack.

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26 Things to Do for Winter in Minnesota

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through the links below, at no cost to you. For more information, read my full disclaimer here .

Celebrate Winter

We all know winter in Minnesota can be brutal. With the cloudy gloomy days, the sun setting early, and the bitter cold temperatures that come in January and February, it’s no wonder our winters have a bad reputation. Although I think if winter wasn’t so cold here we wouldn’t appreciate the hot summer days we spend swimming in the lakes, or the beautiful fall days we spend hiking. Over the years I’ve come to make the most of deep snow, strong winds, and slick ice. With some simple preparation and the right gear, winter in Minnesota is actually a pretty spectacular time.

I’ve pulled together an exciting list of unique winter activities so you can fully enjoy this next season. Many of these activities are great for adults, dogs, children, and the whole family! It’s really about your mindset and embracing winter to the fullest (and having the proper clothing and gear to stay dry and warm)! Read on for 26 ideas for embracing winter this year!

1. Ice Castles

Minnesota Ice Castles always creates really impressive frozen structures! The location changes every year, and prices are based on what day you go. Click here for Ice Castle tickets. The town of Stillwater also does an incredible job of putting together an ice palace maze in the heart of town!

2. Ice Skating

Ice skating can be a great workout and there are so many places to skate around the Twin Cities and greater Minnesota. Destination Winter in St. Paul is free to skate and just $5 for rentals. Lake of the Isles in Minneapolis offers free skate rentals, which you can use to skate on the frozen lake!

3. Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is one of my favorite winter activities. It’s both relaxing and a great workout. A few great parks with designated snowshoe trails are Lebanon Hills and the  Three Rivers Park District . These parks also offer guided snowshoe walks. If you’re heading south, stop by Whitewater State Park in Altura. They offer six scenic overlooks plus snowshoe rentals.

4. Enjoy a Sauna

There are so many benefits a sauna may provide, like detoxification, increased metabolism, reduced blood pressure, and increased blood circulation. Check to see if your gym has a sauna, (many Lifetime gyms do). Embrace North is a great option in Minneapolis, and for views of Lake Superior, visit Sisu + and Loyly in Grand Marais or Cedar + Stone in Duluth.

Shop My Favorite Outdoor Gear

Merrell boots, waterproof gloves.

You don’t have to be an Olympian to give curling a try! Check out Brookview Lawn and Golf Bowling in Golden Valley. Call ahead to reserve a private rink for your group for just $15/hour. It’s a super affordable way to get outside!

6. Hang with Llamas

There are a handful of great llama farms around Minnesota, and several locations let you pet, feed, and take photos with them! Check out Carlson’s Llovable Llamas in Waconia and  Pauley Alpaca Company in Rochester!

7. Ice Fishing

Ice fishing can be a lot of fun, especially if you go with friends! Learn how to prepare for ice fishing , and read about  six great places to ice fish in northwest Minnesota . And don’t forget to get your fishing license and check out the DNR’s ice fishing regulations and resources page  before heading out.

8. Frozen Waterfalls

Waterfalls are beautiful during any time of the year, and they’re particularly mesmerizing in winter. Minnehaha Falls in Minneapolis is a great spot to get very close to a massive waterfall. Gooseberry Falls on the North Shore and Minneopa Falls in Mankato are also beautiful places to see large frozen waterfalls up close.

9. Play Hockey

Playing hockey on a frozen lake may be the most Minnesotan thing there is! Here’s a list of pond hockey rink locations around Minneapolis. Always use caution when stepping onto a frozen lake or pond.

10. Holiday Markets

Holiday Markets are a really beautiful way to get into the holiday spirit! Some of my favorites are the European Christmas Market and the Holiday Market at Keg and Case , both in St. Paul

11. Ice Climbing

For those seeking a big adventure, try ice climbing! Learn about great places to go ice climbing, how to sign up for guided tours, and where to rent gear  here .

12. Fat Tire Biking

Fat tire biking is one serious workout, especially in fresh snow. You can either put fat tires on your regular bike and  keep peddling all winter at these great parks.  Or, if you don’t have your own bike  rent one from these five places.

13. Snow Tubing

Snow tubing is a great activity for the whole family, and it’s a super fun way to get outside. Here’s a list of 15 great hills for snow tubing around Minnesota.

14. Dog Sledding

Dog sledding may be one of the more unique ways to enjoy winter, and you don’t have to travel to Norway to experience it! Check out White Wilderness or Chilly Dogs Sledding in Ely, Minnesota.

15. Walk Through the Woods

Some of my favorite places to hike in the snowy woods are Lebanon Hills, Fort Snelling, Pike Island, and Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve because they are so heavily wooded and peaceful. Read about the benefits of forest bathing here .

16. Sledding

Sledding is a great way to have fun with the whole family. Grab an inexpensive sled from a local pharmacy or grocery store and go have some laughs! Here is a list of 15 awesome locations for sledding.

17. Outdoor Winter Events and Festivals

Minnesota has some of the most unique winter events! Check out  Holidazzle in Minneapolis,  Bentleyville Tour of Lights in Duluth,  Chilly Open in Wayzata,  Loppet Winter Festival on Lake of the Isles in Minneapolis,  SocialICE  in Rochester, and the  Lake Harriet Kite Festival  in Minneapolis!

18. Broom Ball

Join an adult league run by your town’s Parks and Recreation office, or grab supplies and go play on a frozen lake with friends. Or even better, create an ice rink in your backyard so you can play whenever you want!

19. Camping and Camper Vanning

Yes, you can go camping in the winter! Be sure to wear very warm clothing and be prepared for anything when it comes to the weather. If camping is too much for you in the winter, consider a yurt, camper cabin, or camper van . We went camper vanning in February and stayed warm all night!

20. Horse-Drawn Carriage

For a romantic outing, take a ride on a horse-drawn carriage through the city. The Hitching Company stays open year-round and offers 30 and 60-minute tours around Minneapolis and the Mississippi River.

21. Do a Polar Plunge

There are a lot of polar plunges around Minnesota during the winter months. Be sure to always bring a friend and take deep breaths while your body adjusts to the shock. Also, check out the Polar Plunge for Special Olympics , which takes place at many different locations.

22. Walk on a Frozen Lake

This is a great thing to do with dogs and kids and it can be really peaceful. Build a snowman, sip hot cocoa, or just enjoy a peaceful walk in the sun. In the land of 10,000 lakes, you can find a frozen lake just about anywhere.

23. Snowboarding and Skiing

Snowboarding and skiing are my absolute favorite winter activities. Check out  Spirit Mountain  in Duluth, and  Lutsen Mountains  in Lutsen if you’re going north. If you’re staying close to the Twin Cities,  Afton Alps  is a nice option. I also really like visiting  Granite Peak  in Wausau, Wisconsin.

24. Cross-Country Skiing

There are so many great places to cross-country ski in Minnesota. Lake Harriet has a trail that goes around the lake, or head onto the lake if you want wide open space.   Theodore Wirth Park in Minneapolis and  Lebanon Hills in Eagan have nicely groomed trails.  Check out my blog post for 12 great places to cross-country ski around the Twin Cities.   If you don’t already own a pair of skis, here is a great set.

25. Swing Your Club at Top Golf

The only Top Golf location in Minnesota is in Brooklyn Park.  They have a restaurant where you can order food and drinks, plus there are heaters blowing on each bay, so you can warm up in between swings. Prices vary based on which package you purchase  and which day you go.

26. Holiday Light Shows

I love driving around the neighborhood and checking out holiday lights. There are also some incredible light shows (ticket required) for places like Sever’s , Christmas in Color at Valley Fair, and Miracle at Big Rock . Here’s a roundup of the 12 best holiday light displays around the Twin Cities.

Embracing Winter

I hope these ideas give you some new inspiration for embracing winter this year! For more cold weather inspiration, check out my blog posts on 5 Unique Minnesota Winter Events , 9 Reasons to Visit Crosby During Winter , Cozy Winter Getaway to Stillwater , Minnesota Winter Survival Guide , or 12 Great Twin Cities Parks of Cross-Country Skiing .

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Alicia Bailey

Hi, thanks for sharing these great winter options! I am always trying to find something to do to get me thru the cold day. I wanted to share another option you might enjoy too- Ice Yoga! Or sometimes we call it Snow-ga! It is offered thru All Season Yoga but I am sure there might be others too.

Megan Beirne

These are GREAT recommendatios of things to do in the winter! Thanks for putting the list together, Kristen!

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A Winter of Firsts

Embrace the snowy season throughout Minnesota by trying something new or going someplace different. Ahead, new adventures and sports, hot water, cold water, warming watering holes, and more.

by Sarah Elbert

December 1, 2023

Photo courtesy of Explore Minnesota/Ryan Taylor

caribou-trail-header

Minnesota winters get such a bad rap. Yes, it does get cold and snowy here...if we’re lucky! When the first flakes start piling up on the ground, it’s like we turn a page and start an engrossing new chapter in our annual novel. We take inventory of our coats and wool socks and sports equipment. We make reservations for ski weekends and ice fishing getaways with friends. We dream of the swishing whisper you can only experience while cross-country skiing, hiking, or snowshoeing after a recent snow. 

It’s no surprise that the people who welcome winter with the most gusto are those who make the most of it. These are the people who get outside and hit the slopes or stock up on apple cider and knitting wool and embrace winter’s abundant hygge. 

If you haven’t tried one of the North’s classic winter pastimes, it’s never too late. And if you’re an old hand, try bringing your skills or interests to a new locale—or leveling up your abilities. Embracing winter’s outdoor adventures is often easier said than done, but sometimes you just need to leap first, question later.

Photo courtesy of Explore Minnesota/Paul Vincent

Whitetail Woods

Go for a winter hike.

It doesn’t take a lot of equipment or expertise to go for a hike through a forest of trees dripping with blankets of fluffy snow. Read more  »

Photo by Abdiel Nieves

voyaguers-snowmobile-hdr

Hop aboard a snowmobile.

Adventure awaits when you climb on the back of a snowmobile and fly along a snowy path.  Read more  »

Photo by Martha Shuff

Voyageurs National Park – Northern Lights

Spy northern lights.

There’s no guarantee you’ll catch the aurora borealis, but if it’s a clear night and you do see these dancing, undulating colorful lights, you are one lucky human.  Read more  »

Hewing Hotel Hot Tub in Winter

Take a hot plunge.

Sometimes what you really need in the winter is not the cold, snowy wind hitting your cheeks but some hot, hot heat.  Read more  »

Photo courtesy of Explore Minnesota

Cedar and Stone Nordic Sauna

Take a cold plunge.

Have you heard about the reported health benefits of cold plunges—enhanced energy, improved insulin sensitivity, even heightened immunity?  Read more  »

Mount Kato in Winter, Snowboarding

Learn to snowboard.

Naysayers be darned: It’s never too late to learn a new trick, like snowboarding.  Read more  »

Curling at the Fogerty Ice Arena

Watch a new sport.

Yes, you can learn how to participate in new sports, but before you put all that effort into it, why don’t you try watching them first?  Read more  »

Photo courtesy of Lutsen Mountains

Lutsen Mountains—skiing in winter

Level up your skiing game.

You’ve mastered all the blue square runs at your local ski hill. Now it might be time: time to conquer a black diamond.  Read more  »

Photo courtesy of Carly Aplin

Sled Dogs in Ely, Minnesota in Winter

Get mushing.

No experience needed to “gee” and “haw” your way through the snowy woods.  Read more  »

vikre-distillery-hdr

Visit a distillery for a winter whiskey warmup.

Winter is the perfect time to try a cocktail that will warm you up from the inside out, and the state’s distilleries have taken the art of the cocktail to a new level.  Read more  »

Photo by John Connelly

Hop on a Fat Bike

The biking version of a monster truck, fat bikes have tires that are about 4 inches wide and are kept underinflated, so they kind of float above the snow.  Read more  »

Photo by Paul Vincent

Skiing in Whitetail Woods in Minnesota

Try cross-country skiing.

Cross-country skiing, also known as Nordic skiing, is great exercise, easily accessible, relatively easy to learn, and a wonderful way to get some vitamin D in the winter.  Read more  »

Photo by Jonah Cory

riverbend-skate-path

Skate on a river.

Embrace your inner Anna and Elsa and let it go as you skate down a frozen river.  Read more  »

detroit-lakes-panfish-hdr

Dangle your line through the ice.

Never tried the classic sport of ice fishing? Wonder why anyone would sit around in the cold to watch a hole in the ice?  Read more  »

Photo by Travis Novitsky

dark-sky-festival

December event calendar.

Winter in Minnesota is where it's at, with plenty of festivities to keep the fam busy. Here are three to mark on your calendar.  Read more  »

Photo by Dave Puente

sandstone-ice-climbing

January event calendar.

The wonders of winter don't end post-holiday season. Here are three ways to keep your family busy this January.  Read more  »

Photo by Stacy Bunting

kites-on-ice-festival

February event calendar.

It's the season of love. Here are three ways to celebrate the chilliest weather, yet warmest hearts, in Minnesota.  Read more  »

This section originally appeared in the December issue of Mpls.St.Paul Magazine. 

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Lake of the Woods Tourism , Baudette, 800-382-3474, lakeofthewoodsmn.com

Lakeville Chamber of Commerce and Tourism , 952-469-2020, lakevillechamber.org

Lutsen Resort on Lake Superior , Lutsen, 800-218-8589, lutsenresort.com

Minnesota Historical Society , St. Paul, 651-259-3000, mnhs.org

Mill City Museum , Mpls., 612-341-7555, mnhs.org/millcity

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Pier B Resort , Duluth, 218-481-8888, pierbresort.com

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Destinations , Minnesota , MN Day Trips , Road Trips · November 11, 2020

Minnesota Winter: 8 Places to Visit in 2023

Minnesota winter. It keeps most people away with our 0° temps and piles of snow. But what people seem to forget are all of the best places to actually enjoy Minnesota winter. You may need to bundle up, incorporate hot beverages, and purchase a few extra hand warmers, but if you can tough it out (you can), then not only will you have fun this season but it’ll be over before you know it!

There are so many cities and places that make the Minnesota winter months fun. And if you live here, take advantage by taking a winter vacation! If you don’t, well…it’s time to see just how tough you really are. Don’t worry, you will love it 🙂

Minnesota Winter Places to Visit

Minnesota Winter on the North Shore

There is no bad time to head up north and enjoy Minnesota’s North Shore. Even winter brings its own unique experiences that make packing up and getting away for the weekend worth it. Here is what to check out in Northern Minnesota.

• Frozen waterfalls. Don’t miss Gooseberry Falls State Park . I actually prefer Gooseberry in the winter for both the pretty views and lack of crowds. Grand Portage State Park is another beautiful option.
• Downhill ski. The best place to get on the slopes in Minnesota is at Lutsen Mountains . I highly recommend booking a ski-in/ski-out lodge. You won’t regret a weekend on the shores of Lake Superior!
• Hike or snowshoe at Tettegouche State Park , Temperance River State Park , or in Superior National Forest.
• Drive up the scenic Gunflint Trail if you want to stay warm! Enjoy the snow-covered trees and a few bar stops along the way. Read my guide to Gunflint Trail with ALL of the info.
• Cozy up at the Gunflint Tavern in Grand Marais. They have outdoor space (that can be enclosed if need be) with live music and hot drinks for the most perfect night.

Read Minnesota’s North Shore: 14 Road Trip Stops for more ideas!

The North Shore is PERFECT in ANY season. It’s included in my Minnesota Spring: 8 Places to Visit in 2021 . Go check out the list.

Duluth, Minnesota

One thing about Duluth? They have nailed the whole “have fun in winter” thing. Mainly because they don’t have a choice—that lake effect snow and wind is no joke. But also because it’s something to take advantage of!

The great thing about exploring this city in winter is that nothing is too far from one another, and always close to a beer. Don’t miss these fun things:

• Bentleyville Tour of Lights to get into the holiday spirit. Avoid weekends, if at all possible.
• Downhill skiing at Spirit Mountain . 22 runs and a great place for a fun day on the slopes. They also have snow tubing and a zipline.
• Hike, cross country ski, or snowshoe on the Superior Hiking Trail .
• Free ice skating is available at Bayfront Park—including rentals!
• Canal Park offers up some of the best Lake Superior views. Grab a warm beverage and take a stroll.
• Holiday gift shopping is plentiful in Duluth. Some of my favorites are Hucklebeary , Duluth Trading Co ., Fitger’s , and Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory .
• Stay warm at a brewery. There’s no shortage of craft beer around Duluth. Give one, or all, or these a try: Bent Paddle Brewing Co. , Hoops Brewing , and Backlist Brewing Co .

Minnesota Winter in the Brainerd Lakes Area

460+ lakes in one area sounds like tons of summer adventure. But don’t sleep on winter in the Brainerd Lakes Area. Everything transforms into winter-friendly events and activities and you can’t deny that it’s still a beautiful (and fun!) place to explore when it’s cold outside.

• Winter Festival s. Plan your trip around Ice Fest in January, Ice Fishing Extravaganza in February, or another yearly event. Be sure to check their calendar .
• Snowmobile on over 1,200 miles of trails. This is a great resource for snowmobile rentals in the area.
• Fat Tire Bike. Yep, Minnesotan’s bike in the winter. This might just be my most anticipated new activity this year. Check out the Cuyuna mountain bike trails for a unique experience. Red Raven Bike Cafe is a great place to rent from—plus grab a coffee before and a beer after!
• Ski, Snowboard, and Tube at Mount Ski Gull .
• Snowshoe or hike. Hit the Paul Bunyan Scenic Highway (be careful of snowmobiles) or Crow Wing State Park – they have rentals during office hours.
• Cross-country skiing . The best bet for groomed trails is  Northland Arboretum  with easy to moderate trails. Trail fee is $5, and a  Minnesota Ski Pass  is required. They even have lighted trails for night skiing! A few different spots have rentals .
• Grand View Lodge ; this place looks like a dream! Come for a cozy weekend stay where you can do a little R&R – there is even a spa. (And you can enjoy indoor pools and being warm in a hot tub!)
• Brainerd is full of waterparks if you need a touch of summer.

Read 11 Best Restaurants and Bars in Brainerd Area to stay cozy inside

New Ulm, Minnesota

New Ulm is such a fun and festive town to visit. And there is no lack of Christmas spirit. Starting in late November and through December, you’re welcomed with a festive downtown full of lights, trees, and holiday cheer.

• Winter/Holiday Events. Lighting ceremonies, shopping events, and different deals you can check out here .
• Cross Country Ski, Snowshoe, or Hike at Flandrau State Park . They do have rentals available.
• Stay warm at the bar. There is so much fun to be had in New Ulm. Treat yourself after you exercise at the best bars, breweries, and wineries .

Read Things to Do in New Ulm for more ideas

Minnesota Winter in Minneapolis/St. Paul

If you want to stay close to the cities, there is much to take advantage of during Minnesota winter in Minneapolis and St. Paul with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

• Minnehaha Falls is a great place to get outside and check out the frozen waterfall.
• Fort Snelling State Park offers great trails that meander both the Minnesota River and Mississippi River. Hike, snowshoe, cross-country ski, and enjoy the views.
• Ice Skate. Lace-up your skates and hit Mall of America , Destination Winter in St. Paul, Lake of the Isles, or any other frozen lake!
• Minneapolis cross country skiing is awesome! Grab an annual ($50+) or daily ($8+) pass through the Loppet Foundation for access to wooded trails with downtown views. Rentals are $11 for the full set. This is a great list with more options in the area, including Theodore Wirth Park!
• Psycho Suzi’s 4th Annual Mary’s Christmas Palace . This is on my list! There are decorations galore, both indoors and out, with tons of holiday booze and bites.
• Saint Paul Winter Carnival is always a great way to experience the season!
• Sit on the outdoor patio in downtown Minneapolis and beyond! Try Twin Spirits Distillery or Broken Clock Brewery which are complete with fires and pop-up igloos. Click to get a full list of heated outdoor patios in the Twin Cities !

Minnesota Winter in the Chisago County Area

About an hour north of Minneapolis is Chisago County which includes a few Minnesota State Parks that are worth visiting in the wintertime. Both sit along the perfect spot of the St. Croix River with fun trails and fantastic Minnesota views. It’s the perfect place if you are looking to get out of the city without going too far.

• Interstate State Park: a popular state park located in Taylors Falls, MN (as well as Wisconsin just across the river), this place is full of incredible river views. And it’s for the adventurous hiker come wintertime. Their trails aren’t winter-groomed, making it riskier, but can be a ton of fun!
• Wild River State Park: about 10 more minutes north is Wild River State Park is a less-known park that is really worth a visit. You can rent snowshoes and/or cross-country skis here, as well as a warm-up in their warming house–complete with a fireplace!
• Juneberry Cafe is the perfect place to grab a hot beverage to warm up! And they have great snacks and lunches, too.

details + more MN hikes: Where to Hike During Minnesota Winter—& Love it

Austin, Minnesota

Let’s not forget southern Minnesota! Austin, Minnesota is such a great town FULL of nice people and is another destination perfect for getting out of the city and enjoying a small town. A less popular destination, it’s the easiest drive known to man and once you get there, you can enjoy some winter adventure with fewer crowds.

• Jay C. Hormel Nature Center is an awesome place to snowshoe and cross-country ski. And they have GREAT rental rates; it’s just $6.00 for skis and $5.00 for snowshoes and includes a 3-hour timeslot—with no ski pass required.
• Daisy Blue Natural Wellness offers amazing sauna appointments that will leave you feeling both warm and refreshed, especially after some chilly winter activities!
• Gravity Storm Brewing will keep you warm inside their brewery. And also serve you some delicious beers.

Don’t forget to check out Minnesota Spring: 8 Places to Visit in 2021 for great places to explore when we’re all thawed out!

Ice Castles During Minnesota Winter

Every year, the ice castles are located in a new spot. And it is a great outdoor adventure for the whole family! I caught them a couple of years ago when they were in Stillwater and it’s a really cool experience. I definitely recommend checking them out at night when you can see the ice castles lit up. Updates will be posted here so stay tuned on where you can check them out this year. Don’t forget to grab a hot cocoa and take a slide down the ice slide!

Lots More Winter Fun to Come

I have some exciting winter trips and plans so I will definitely update the list. You can always follow along on Facebook and Instagram ! You can also read:

• Where to Downhill Ski in Minnesota
• 19 Places to Snowshoe in the Twin Cities
• Where to Cross Country Ski in the Twin Cities

Don’t Let Minnesota Winter Get You Down

There is so much to explore this time of year and we are lucky to enjoy all four seasons—even if one lasts entirely too long. But you can make it go nice and fast by packing your nights and weekends with some of these Minnesota winter activities.

Did this post help you out? Support the work and pass along $5 for a Coors Light 😉 VENMO: @Amber-LBB or PAYPAL: [email protected]. THANK YOU.

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Recreation, tourism threatened by winter warming

Shorter and warmer winters mean fewer chances for winter recreation and revenues. We simply don’t get as cold as we used to.

When you hear “warming,” you may envision summer months, sunny days, and heat waves. But in truth, most of our warming hasn’t happened in the summer. Most of Minnesota’s observed warming has been when it’s coldest.

This climate trend is called “ cold weather warming ,” and it means that the average temperature of winter months is increasing faster than the average temperature of summer months. Over the last 50 years, Minnesota’s winter has warmed an incredible 13 times faster than summer. And the frequencies of -35°F readings in northern Minnesota and -25°F readings in the south have fallen by up to 90%.

Consequently, winters in Minnesota are becoming shorter and milder. Since 1970, there are 16 fewer winter days from initial freeze to last frost. This also means 12 fewer days of ice on our lakes. As a result, Minnesotans have less time and fewer opportunities to participate in winter outdoor activities they enjoy. Winter carnivals, skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing festivals, snowmobile rallies and other beloved events now face the threat of postponement or cancellation due to less predictable and more volatile climate trends.

Outdoor recreation in winter is a popular tradition for many families, but it can also represent their livelihood. Many communities in northern Minnesota rely on winter tourism for income, which is increasingly in jeopardy due to climate change. For example, a terrible ice fishing season in winter 2019-20 on Lake Winnibigoshish reportedly led some anglers to give up on one of Minnesota’s premier walleye fisheries and seek better ice in North Dakota. Local resort owners called this season “a natural disaster” that hurt their businesses and others in the community.

More information: Cold weather warming (DNR)

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In this lesson, youth learn how to be prepared with the right equipment for an outdoor adventure. Ideal for any grade level.

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Four seasons hotel minneapolis: resort-style luxury in the twin cities.

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Outside of the Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis

When an unexpected flight cancellation left me scrambling with luggage, a ready-to-fly small dog and an overall weariness from weeks on the road, truly the last thing I wanted to do was check into yet another hotel. I longed for the comfort of my own home, my bed, my stuff. Yet another restaurant meal outside of my own beloved kitchen didn’t appeal, nor did a hotel pool for my now-musty swimsuits. And yet, the gleaming lobby of the Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis was too alluring to pass up, and my 24-hour stay was a highlight of my Midwestern vacation

The Four Seasons opened in brand new construction in 2022, housed in a 34- story building with views of the Mississippi River and Minneapolis’ North Loop neighborhood. The property offers 222 guest rooms, plus 31 fully serviced Four Seasons Private Residences, and one of the largest (and most popular) rooftop pool decks in the Twin Cities, with an all-seasons indoor pool.

The pool at Four Seasons Minneapolis

While, spoiler, I barely left the property, except only to enjoy the pedestrian-friendly blocks surrounding the hotel, it’s close to so many attractions: Target Field (where the Minnesota Twins play), Target Center (where the Minnesota Lynx play), plus several more large entertainment venues, art galleries, restaurants and more.

The resort-style property offers a full service spa (with customizable massages and wellness treatments), plus a Gavin Kaysen-led restaurant, which has its own more casual bar menu, a terrace restaurant, plus an adjacent coffee shop with beverages, pastries and cafe items. On a blustery Minnesota day (or any day), leaving the grounds is hardly necessary.

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Lamb chops at Mara by Chef Gavin Kaysen

Mara , the ground floor eatery by James Beard Award winner and Minneapolis native, Kaysen, is worth a visit on its own. The Mediterranean restaurant welcomes guests with lush velvets, in deep burgundy and gold, cushy banquettes and arm chairs that make you want to stay a while and feast. The menus, inspired by Kaysen’s travels to Southern France and the Mediterranean while living in Switzerland, is created with family-style dining in mind. It’s also inspired by Chef Daniel Boulud’s Boulud Sud, a travel inspired restaurant that integrates fine dining with a fun time. Breakfast, weekend brunch, lunch and dinner are all served, with seasonal dishes like shareable dips, chicken liver and ricotta filled ravioli with fava beans, chermoula spiced chicken and more leading the menu.

To sleep, The Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis offers seventeen types of accomodations distinguished as guest rooms, suites and accessible rooms. The smallest, a superior skyline view room, is a spacious 472 square feet, and like all rooms, can accommodate an extra rollaway bed or crib. I was generously upgraded to a river view executive corner suite, with square footage rivaling my Brooklyn apartment, sweeping city views, and a very lovely soaking tub. A comfy couch was essential for my impromptu work-from-hotel day and a copy of Kaysen’s new cookbook, At Home , to flip through was a nice touch.

A suite bathroom at Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis

Speaking of home, as eager as I’d been to return back, the Four Seasons chilled me out, fed me well, and re-energized me for an uneventful flight home. A late checkout helped soak in those last few minutes of luxury.

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Inside/Out: 2022 Winter Things to Do in Minnesota

Illustration by Jacob Stead

Minnesota has four distinct seasons, each with its own unique flavors, colors, and activities. As we enter the middle of winter, many of you might want to settle into your warm homes and hibernate until the ice thaws and snow recedes. But there are many who embrace the outdoors instead, along with all the cold weather has to offer. Our Inside/Out ideas offer up activities to help you enjoy staying indoors or playing out in the elements. Pick and choose—or try them all over the next few months.

Photo by Taylor Krosbakken

Conquer the Climb

Rock climbing is another popular activity that can be done inside and out. Gyms like Vertical Endeavors , with several locations around the state, offer indoor climbing walls and leagues for all levels of fitness and expertise. And a variety of fitness centers, like the RecWell Center at the University of Minnesota in the Twin Cities, feature climbing walls for monthly members or day visitors. The Pinnacle Rock Climbing Wall at the REI in Bloomington was closed at press time because of COVID-19 precautions, but it is free to REI members when in service. Otherwise, maybe your neighbors have installed a climbing wall in their home as part of a sport-court craze we’re seeing among homeowners.

Ice climbing is rock climbing’s outdoor equivalent with breathtaking beauty. A 2017 Minnesota Monthly story described the activity as “a fast-growing sport that uses ropes, spiky metal ‘crampons’ strapped to your boots, and ice axes (swung into the ice to gain a hold) to scale frozen waterfalls and man-made ice parks.” From Duluth to Winona, you have your options. For key spots, check out Quarry Park in West Duluth , Sandstone Ice Park , Winona Ice Park , Cascade Falls on Cascade River, Nightfall on Devil Track River along the North Shore, Crosby Park , and Franklin Bridge over the Mississippi River in the Twin Cities.

Get Golfing

At first, golfing seems exclusively like an outdoor activity, practiced only during warm weather. But when the greens freeze over, there are still plenty of indoor golfing opportunities. Across the state, various businesses offer simulated golf on some of the world’s best courses. Book a tee time at Burnsville Indoor Golf or Minnesota Golf Lab in Long Lake. You can even get a December-to-May membership to the indoor golf simulator at the Lincoln Community Center in Mankato. For a hybrid of indoor and outdoor golfing, visit Topgolf in Brooklyn Center, where you tee off from a heated and covered bay into an open-air target area. And don’t overlook putt-putt golfing for some indoor fun. One of our favorite locations is at the quirky Can Can Wonderland in St. Paul.

Ice golfing is a popular fundraising sport that’s also often included in communities’ winter festivals. The Wayzata Chilly Open , Feb. 11-12, will feature three nine-hole golf courses on Lake Minnetonka. Since 1984, thousands of outdoor enthusiasts have been showing up with golf clubs and hockey sticks for this fun tournament. The Mill Pond Masters Ice Golf Tournament in Jordan’s Lagoon Park, also on Feb. 12, is another chance to putt a tennis ball on ice.

Experience Art

One easy way to stay warm and get some culture is to visit an art museum, indoor theater, or concert hall. And Minnesota has scores of them. We all know the big Twin Cities players (Mia, the Walker Art Center), so maybe treat yourself to something new or under-the-radar like the Somali Museum of Minnesota in St. Paul, the Minnesota Marine Art Museum in Winona, or the Hallberg Center for the Arts in Wyoming.

Enjoy the great outdoors and art at the same time across the state by visiting a number of sculpture parks and outdoor amphitheaters that may be hosting a show. Don’t miss the ice sculptures at the annual Saint Paul Winter Carnival . The giant, iconic cherry that is part of the Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture in the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden at the Walker Art Center is scheduled to return fully refreshed in January. And you can tour Otter Tail County to spy the various animal-themed sculptures created by local artist Ken Nyberg. Meanwhile, the multi-city Ice Castles have returned to Minnesota in New Brighton’s Long Lake Regional Park through February.

Enjoy the Games

Many Minnesotans love to spend an evening inside playing cribbage, Trivial Pursuit, and other favorite games with family and friends. If you’re a puzzle fan, consider gathering a team for the Winter Carnival Puzzle Contest Jan. 29 at the Landmark Center in St. Paul.

There are plenty of outdoor games this winter to enjoy, as well. Beyond the athletic and sporting events, like the U.S. Pond Hockey Championships (Jan. 21-30), look for “orienteering” events, which challenge the mind in the outdoors. There are two Unlock It events that combine puzzle solving as part of an outdoor scavenger hunt. Download course maps for several parks anytime on the YMCANorth.org website for a self-guided event. Or join other families on Jan. 29 in Silverwood Park in St. Anthony, or on Feb. 5. in St. Paul’s Battle Creek Park, as part of the Great Northern Festival ’s lineup.

Photo by Mark Vancleave

Make It Maple

Making your own maple syrup can be a bona fide hobby if you have the time and patience (plus maple trees on your property, and a makeshift evaporator, and lots of mason jars). Or you can skip the work and enjoy the flavor of Minnesota maples in a surprising form: as a nightcap.

It turns out your favorite dark liquor makes an excellent partner for maple syrup. Panther Distillery , located in Osakis, uses cold aging to make its whiskey, where the barrels contract and push the whiskey flavors back out of the wood. This embrace of the cold helps create the Minnesota 14 Maple, a blend of the distillery’s own whiskey and all-natural maple syrup.

Meanwhile, Sapthre Farms in the southeast Minnesota town of Adams has turned maple syrup into whiskey. “Miskey” (a portmanteau of whiskey and maple syrup) is made over a 30-day brewing process that produces a whiskey so smooth the brewers have referred to it as a “bourbon-rum.” Find it in liquor stores in southern Minnesota.

Finally, Lonsdale’s Three Rivers Farm has put a twist on the breakfast staple with an assortment of flavored maple syrups, including a bourbon-infused syrup aged in an oak cask, plus creative concoctions smacking of blueberry, ginger, and habanero.

Looking for an activity that gets your kids outside during the winter months? For educational fun with a sugary reward, try tapping maple trees and making the syrup yourself.

According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, “maple sap runs best when temperatures are in the high 30s to mid-40s and overnight temperatures are below freezing” for several days. Maple-syrup “tap tours” around the state begin in late February and go throughout March, where you can tap into the syrupy process.

In the Twin Cities, try the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska, The Landing in Shakopee, and the Tamarack Nature Center in White Bear Lake to find sap and learn how to make your own delicious maple syrup.

In greater Minnesota, places to check out include the University of Minnesota-Duluth’s Bagley Nature Area , the Wargo Nature Center in Lino Lakes, St. John’s University in Collegeville, the Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center in Sandstone, and the city of Vergas —where maple-syrup events start in March.

Comfort Food

Wild rice soup.

Wild rice, the official state grain of Minnesota, is a hearty fiber that is high in protein and gluten-free, making it a great, local alternative to other rice-based dishes.

This dish also requires a bit of patience to make, because wild rice takes a bit longer to cook, sometimes up to 60 minutes.

Start by boiling water and then taking it down to a simmer once you’ve added the rice. Sauté onions, celery, and carrots in butter, then add half a cup of flour to the mix. After your flour begins to bubble, slowly add chicken broth. Bring the soup to a low boil, add your cooked wild rice, and stir until you’re ready for your warm winter meal.

To learn more about the history of manoomin (the “good berry” to the Anishinaabeg), read The Good Berry Cookbook: Harvesting and Cooking Wild Rice and Other Wild Foods by Minnesota author Tashia Hart (Red Lake Anishinaabe).

If you’re not a confident cook or simply looking to take a night off, try the Cream of Minnesota Wild Rice Soup at the St. Paul Grill or the Chicken Wild Rice Soup at People’s Organic . And if you’re looking for the best wild rice soup in Minnesota, WCCO viewers bestowed that title to Monticello’s Cornerstone Café in 2013.

The Buttered Tin is a beloved Twin Cities bakery for many reasons. Founded by Cupcake Wars winner Alicia Hinze, the fresh ingredients are often locally sourced. Although known for their cupcakes, be sure to check out the s’more pie. Stop by one of two locations, in Lowertown St. Paul and northeast Minneapolis, to pick one up.

And for more s’mores: Did you know the Whitefish Chain of Lakes region bills itself as the S’more Capital of the World? In this north-central hub, near such towns as Crosslake and Jenkins, you may find variations on the gooey classic at area restaurants, including A-Pine Restaurant (s’more pie), Lake Country Crafts & Cones (s’more milkshake, brownie-s’more ice cream cake), and Lifehouse Coffee (s’more latte).

Of course, good old-fashioned homemade s’mores can still do the trick if you have a backyard or park fire pit at your disposal. To shake things up a bit, try adding smoked berries , caramel, or even your favorite Girl Scout Cookie. There are also books out there for gourmet s’mores—like S’more Cookbook by Stephanie Sharp (featuring a peanut butter s’mores brownie) and S’mores! by Dan Whalen (avocado s’mores, anyone?). And to source your   ’mallows, consider the upscale Golden Valley-based North Mallow brand, with flavors like vanilla bean and caramel swirl available in select stores throughout Minnesota.

Photo by Quils/Adobe

Pine Needle Tea

Pine needles are good for more than just a welcome pop of green in winter. In fact, pine needle tea is a good source of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and vitamin A, with a long history of Native American use for medicinal purposes. (Find some instructions here .)

The key to harvesting for your pine needle tea is knowing where to source the needles. Do not pick from toxic cypress or yew trees. Instead, gather clean needles from Eastern white pine, fir, or spruce trees.

Hit the Bar

“Zymurgy” (or zymology) is as fun to say as it is to do. Basically, it’s an applied science that deals with fermentation—as well as the heart of home brewing. Craft beer and wine have been popular for a while across the state, with plenty of stores offering expertise and supplies to keep us stocked up. We adore Northern Brewer in St. Paul and Midwest Homebrewing and Winemaking Supplies in St. Louis Park for kits, ingredients, and tools. There’s also Make Me Wine in Wadena and Brew-n-Wine Creations in Mankato. While we had to move our latest creation from the garage into the basement because of the cold temperatures to finish brewing, we are looking forward to bottling a batch and sharing with friends when it’s ready.

Mulled wine—otherwise known as spiced wine—is a great seasonal standby for wine enthusiasts, and it’s also easy to make at home. Heat up a rich red wine with mulling spices, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and nutmeg for a taste of what they serve at outdoor holiday markets all across Europe.

One alternative to brewing a batch at home? Embracing the cold at one of Minnesota’s ice bars. Many winter fests, such as the Saint Paul Winter Carnival , and restaurants have begun adding ice bars that serve beers, wines, and mulled wines in recent years (when there were in-person events). We also suggest Volstead House in Eagan, a 1920s-themed speakeasy that has an outdoor patio with heaters, plus an ice bar in past years. While the ambiance of the ice is beautiful, Volstead House also provides heating torches and fire pits to keep you from getting too cold.

In Wayzata, Birch’s on the Lake is a brewhouse and supper club with an ice-bar deck overlooking Long Lake. Beyond the beverage offerings from Tattersall Distilling, Birch’s has ice shuffleboard and a real igloo where guests can take a seat inside, although they do recommend you bring a coat. And for those up north, check out the Igloo Bar at Zippel Bay Resort on Lake of the Woods. Every year, the resort installs a wooden structure on the ice so you can fish from the bar. And it’s heated inside, so your fishing experience will be plenty comfortable.

Bowling is back, baby! COVID-19 certainly put a dent in the popularity of this sport across the state, but the Minnesota State Bowling Association reports that many leagues are back to full strength. (And a film by Minnesota’s own Coen brothers, The Big Lebowski, raised the game’s profile.) Whether you want to use bumpers to boost your score, or regularly bowl weekly (or more) as part of a league, this activity can be a fun way to socialize, get some exercise, and wax nostalgic for the 1950s and   ’60s, when bowling was one of the most popular group activities in the state because of the invention of the automatic pinsetter.

The variety of alleys across the state are worth a visit, too. At Bryant Lake Bowl in Minneapolis’ Uptown neighborhood, you can bowl and catch a play at the theater in the same building. Ranham Bowling in St. Paul is an eight-lane alley in the basement of the Nook restaurant. And Town Hall Lanes , also in Minneapolis, is a cozy set of 10 lanes with a full pub attached. For larger alleys, we like Drkula’s 32 Bowl in Inver Grove Heights, Tuttle’s Eat Bowl Play in Hopkins, and Lew Flynn’s Red Ray Lanes in Grand Forks (along the Minnesota border).

For something completely different, our friends to the north, in Canada, prefer fivepin bowling, so if you do cross the border, you can also check out a variation on Minnesota’s traditional 10-pin game.

While bowling at an indoor alley may seem like the only option, there are a few outdoor alternatives. At Icebox Days in International Falls in January, there’s frozen-turkey bowling. Sauk Center has featured an ice-bowling tournament annually, and St. Louis Park’s ShamROC ice-bowling competition is March 12. Or start your own frozen version in your yard or on a backyard rink with some pins and balls, or even an oversize snowball.

Photo by Patrick/Adobe

Binge-watching the latest series on one of many streaming networks isn’t just a winter thing, but we love curling up under a blanket to watch the stars. As we finish up You , Foundation , and Big Mouth , we are looking forward to a number of new shows to stream, including Yellowjackets , Tiger King 2 , and a second season of Emily in Paris .

If seeing stars on your TV screen isn’t enough, head to a local planetarium for a show. The Whitney and Elizabeth MacMillan Planetarium at the Bell Museum in St. Paul features a “Minnesota Night Skies” program Wednesdays through Sundays. And for more outstate options, there are eight registered planetariums across Minnesota: in Duluth, Mankato, Marshall, Moorhead, Rochester, and St. Cloud, plus two in St. Paul.

Maybe you want to get outside for your stargazing. Consider moonlight skiing in Voyageurs National Park or a night hike in any of Minnesota’s 75 state parks that allow it. The Minnesota Astronomical Society offers a number of celestial events year-round, including a few public “star parties” planned for April 5 and 26 and lasting through November. Plus, Minnesota author and meteorologist Mike Lynch offers a variety of statewide classes and events to see stars.

Courtesy of Visit Cook County

Embrace Hygge

We’re past the hustle and bustle of the holidays and ready to rest up, get cozy, and embark on a new year. And who better to inspire our winter comfort than the Scandinavians? After all, they have made an art of it. “Hygge” refers to the pleasure, contentment, and warmth found in simplicity. It comes from the Old Norwegian word for ”well-being” but is now associated with Danish culture.

Try lighting candles with woodsy, comforting scents that remind you of home. Wrap yourself up in thick blankets (maybe even a heated or weighted one) and put on your fuzziest socks.

For food, make a traditional Danish open sandwich with fish, laying your sandwich fixings on a piece of rye bread. (Rye is a favorite of the Danes due to the reported positive effects on heart and digestive health, plus its hearty flavor.)

And of course, take some more inspiration from the Danes and treat yourself to some warm baked goods. For more authentic Scandinavian treats, try Krown Bakery & Eatery in Anoka or visit one of the Taste of Scandinavia bakeries in North Oaks, Little Canada, and Bloom ington. The American Swedish Institute in Minneapolis offers a traditional “fika” (or, coffee- and-snack break) at the cultural center’s café. And at home, try Swedish or Norwegian-style pancakes for a comforting breakfast, plus cardamom or limpa bread with lingonberry jam for a snack or lunch.

Nordic gift shops dot greater Minnesota and neighboring states. Road tripping, it can feel inevitable that you’ll run into one of these places selling Norwegian wool sweaters, lefse gear, Nordic chocolates, and other hygge-adjacent things. To list a few: the Nordic Shop in Rochester, Swedish Kontur in St. Peter, the Scandinavian Gift Shop in Alexandria, Irma’s Finland House in Virginia, and the Uffda Shop in Red Wing. The Chisago Lakes area—home to Minnesota’s oldest Swedish settlement, Scandia—also functions as a Scandinavian-American tourism town, where Sven Clogs sells authentic arch support.

For comfort-seeking readers, we recommend the quintessential Little Book of Hygge by Meik Wiking, CEO of the Happiness Institute in Copenhagen, Denmark. Discover why Danes are so happy and how you can incorporate warmth and contentment into your daily life. Similarly, you can get a Swedish perspective by reading Lagom: Not Too Little, Not Too Much , a guide to subtle habits that claims to help you achieve balance in your life.

Fans of design know that Scandinavian furniture and interior décor is unmatched in its balance of function and form. Scandinavians often incorporate natural materials, like wood, and warm colors to help their homes feel cozy during the winter. For inspiration for your own home, read ScandiKitchen: The Essence of Hygge by Bronte Aurell or The Scandinavian Home by Niki Brantmark.

T he hygge philosophy extends to a Norwegian expression that places the burden of coziness on us, not the elements: “Det finnes ikke dårlig vær, bare dårlig klær!” (“Every season is wonderful if you dress right for it!”) This applies to camping. Because, yes, you can camp in the winter. For this, the Sierra Club recommends a few key items: sleeping-bag liners, sleeping pads (to stay off the cold earth), polypropylene long johns, down jackets, a coat with weather-proof lining like GoreTex, absolutely no cotton (it doesn’t wick moisture), and a commitment to staying dry. REI also says to pack a backup stove—you can’t count on a roaring fire when all the wood you find may be frozen.

Or just hole up in a yurt! The Minnesota State Parks system runs seven yurts for overnight stays. They have domed roofs, wood floors, tables, wood-burning stoves, outdoor fire rings, and beds. There are two yurts in Afton State Park , two in Glendalough State Park , and three in the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area .

For something a little more on the nose, experience the annual Hygge Festival in Grand Marais (Feb. 11-17). This gathering along Minnesota’s North Shore carries on a sense of tradition dating back to the 19th century, when millions of Scandinavian immigrants arrived in the U.S., many of them flocking to Minnesota.

At the fest, expect lots of family-friendly winter fun: Take the hygge “fireplace tour” through restaurants and businesses, go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, or visit the hygge marketplace to find gifts made by local artisans.

Seek Out a Sauna

For our hygge seekers angling for a change of scenery, visit one of the many saunas around the state ( or The Freehouse in Minneapolis ). All saunas involve pouring water over hot rocks to generate steam and make you sweat. And if you’re looking to get traditional, jump in a lake or fresh snow afterward.

Saunas are a big part of Finnish culture, so Justin Juntenen, founder and owner of Cedar & Stone Nordic Sauna (whose family is from Finland), wanted to bring that wellness experience to Minnesota. His Duluth-based company has several saunas around the country and also builds custom, heirloom-quality saunas for homes and cabins. 

Spending time in a sauna has reported health benefits. According to the Mayo Clinic, regular sauna use can reduce risk of cardiovascular and neurocognitive disease, as well as lower blood pressure.

The best way to reap the benefits is through the bracing cycle of “hot, cold, rest, rehydrate, repeat.” “It’s the lowest-impact cardio workout,” Juntenen says. “You just sit there on the bench. Relax and enjoy. And then your heart starts beating faster.”

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6 essential new midwest travel experiences for summer 2024.

Minnesotans are already accustomed to supersized attractions — and travel ties to Nordic heritage. So an invasion of towering trolls should fit right in with this summer's lineup of road-trip enticements.

Vacationers this year can also steam themselves in a sauna floating on a lake, hop a new train to Chicago, plunge down the new tallest water slide in America, and find more places to stay and play from Duluth to the Brainerd Lakes.

Here's a look at what's up in the summer of 2024.

Troll takeover of Detroit Lakes

Danish artist Thomas Dambo is building six giant trolls out of wood and recycled pallets in the parks and woods around Detroit Lakes, Minn. They will add to Dambo's global installation of more than 120 trolls, which can be found in 18 states. They sit cross-legged at the Philadelphia Zoo, peek around trees in Washington state, and even lounge on a beach in Singapore, each with its own personality and narrative.

"In the old stories, trolls are the creatures that live in the forest, and they represent nature," said Dambo, who considers himself a recycling artist and activist. "They are the unspoken voice of the plants and animals."

He keeps his work family-friendly with a whimsical feel and imaginative touches, but also with a message about reducing waste. The Minnesota installation — his largest in the U.S. — will also include his tallest troll yet, at 36 feet.

With the help of more than 250 volunteers, the trolls are expected to be finished by mid-June, when people can visit downtown Detroit Lakes to get the first clues for an interactive experience. Locations will stretch between Fargo and Perham, Minn., as the story leads to additional trolls that can be purposely tricky to find.

"It's a big, free, outdoor, recycled fairy tale to go out and explore," Dambo said. Updates will be available through the nonprofit Project 412 ( project412mn.org/trolls-dl ).

New lodging and fun in Duluth's Lincoln Park

Fans of Duluth – especially those looking for good food and local drink — will have more places to spend the night in the city's increasingly popular Lincoln Park Craft District.

The Duluth Press Building, originally financed by "Buffalo Bill" Cody for his sister to run a printing press in 1894, has been renovated by the owners of Duluth Grill into eight one- and two-bedroom suites that are pet-friendly and have full kitchens ( duluthpressbuilding.com ).

Most guests will be tempted, though, by the dozens of eateries popping up along the Superior Street corridor, including OMC Smokehouse, Corktown Deli & Brews, and Burger Paradox.

Zenith Basecamp, described as "indoor glamping" or hostel-style lodging, also is expected to open by late summer. It will feature private dog-friendly rooms, a communal lounge, cocktail bar and easy access to guided activities through Zenith Adventure ( zenithbasecamp.com ).

The new accommodations join newish ventures blending residential apartments with vacation rentals: Lincoln Park Boutique Hotel, which opened in 2022, and Enger Lofts Hotel and Marketplace, which rents 15 rooms in a renovated warehouse.

Also new this summer: Visitors can buy a Duluth Passport to get three attractions — Great Lakes Aquarium, North Shore Scenic Railroad and the William A. Irvin lake freighter — for the price of two ( duluthpassport.com ).

A new train to new Chicago attractions (and the Dells)

Amtrak service between St. Paul and Chicago is not new. But there are three advantages to the new Borealis train over the long-running Empire Builder on the same track: fare, speed and reliability.

We're seeing one-way fares as low as $41-$50 or $98-$108 for business-class seats, although private rooms are not available on the new train. At seven hours and 24 minutes from St. Paul's Union Depot to Chicago's Union Station, Borealis shaves about 30 minutes off the Empire Builder's travel time. And since Borealis isn't coming all the way from Seattle or Portland, passengers can count on fewer delays ( amtrak.com/borealis-train ).

It's a good time for a long weekend in Chicago. At the Field Museum, the " Unseen Oceans " exhibit lets you "pilot" a submersible in a lifelike underwater environment, while the rare Chicago Archaeopteryx fossil reveals the link between dinosaurs and birds. The Navy Pier's new Flyover experience virtually thrills riders with a view of the city from above. And at the Chicago History Museum, " City on Fire: Chicago 1871 ″ immerses visitors (not literally, we hope) in the historic blaze. (Reserved tickets for all are a must.)

You say Chicago is too far? Amtrak also stops in Red Wing and Winona, Minn., plus La Crosse, Wis., Milwaukee and Wisconsin Dells, where the new tallest water slide in America, the 145-foot Rise of Icarus , is now open at Mount Olympus theme park.

Glamp sites double on North Shore

North Shore Camping Co. has doubled its number of platform tents to 30, following their popularity after opening in 2023 near Beaver Bay, Minn.

Tucked into the hillside across Hwy. 61 from Cove Point Lodge, the glamping tents include beds, potbelly stoves and basics for campfire cooking, plus a shared shower and bathroom building, campfire programs, naturalist activities and barrel saunas.

Bonus: Glamping guests may use the pool at Cove Point Lodge and access the Lake Superior shoreline there. Bikes can be rented for the nearby Split Rock Wilds mountain bike trails or to ride the paved Gitchi-Gami State Trail to Split Rock Lighthouse and Gooseberry Falls state parks ( northshorecampingco.com ).

Saunas are floating now

If the thought of jumping into Lake Superior makes your teeth chatter, the key is to warm up first. Cedar + Stone Nordic Sauna opened in late 2023 on a barge docked at Duluth's Pier B. Up to 10 guests can get hot and steamy before taking the cold plunge into the Great Lake ( cedarandstonesauna.com ).

Sisu + Löyly, which has saunas in Grand Marais and Lutsen, also claims the country's first public floating sauna, a trend that originated in Norway. Reserve its sauna for up to six people floating at the dock of Skyport Lodge on Grand Marais' Devil Track Lake, through summer and early fall ( sisuandloyly.com ).

Brainerd area ups its resort and golf game

Quarterdeck Resort, a Gull Lake resort that opened in 1957, has completed a major makeover and expansion. It modernized its 18-room lodge and restaurant with a new exterior and contemporary menus, renovated six five-bedroom lake houses, and added the QD Social, a central recreational and entertainment area. The new gathering place includes a year-round heated outdoor pool, a 20-person sauna, outdoor fire tables, an indoor fireplace, large-screen TVs and games.

For larger get-togethers, the resort also built six lake lofts with five to six bedrooms each. Sixteen new woodsmoke cabins have two- to three-bedroom units ( quarterdeckresort.com ).

Meanwhile, Minnesota golf legend Tom Lehman has helped Cragun's Resort with its $15 million renovation and expansion of its Legacy courses, adding to the Brainerd Lakes Area's wealth of golf courses.

In addition to the Dutch 18, a 7,000-yard par-70 course with white sand bunkers, the Lehman 18 leads golfers through a 1,000-acre sanctuary that winds around Stephens Lake and natural wetlands and features stacked-sod bunkers. By next year, another nine holes will be added to the Dutch 18 course ( craguns.com ).

Star Tribune travel editor Simon Peter Groebner contributed to this story.

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Travel | Here’s how to stay safe when visiting…

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Subscriber only, travel | here’s how to stay safe when visiting national parks this summer.

At Death Valley National Park, summer temperatures can reach as high as 130 to 134 degrees.

For some travelers, that would be reason enough not to visit. But for others, it’s the exact motivation for a trek to Death Valley during the summer: The novelty of experiencing temperatures you’d be hard-pressed to find elsewhere around the globe.

“Some folks are seeking out what they consider to be a rare experience,” Nichole Andler, a park ranger with the U.S. National Park Service, said during a media briefing.

But it should go without saying that when heat is that extreme, it can easily be a life-or-death situation.

“This time of year, when you’re preparing for coming to Death Valley, it’s important to know what you’re getting into,” emphasized Andler, who stressed not only having enough water on hand all times, but staying near your vehicle.

In fact, in extreme heat conditions, it may even be best to stay in your vehicle amid the comfort of air conditioning and explore the park by car, said Andler.

Her comments were part of a larger National Park Service media conference call, during which officials from parks across the country shared tips for safely visiting this summer.

If one of the 400-plus national parks is on your radar for the months ahead, here are the tips NPS officials would like you to keep in mind.

5 safety tips for national park explorations this summer

1. Select activities that align with your capabilities

There’s all manner of activities available across the U.S. National Park system — from hiking and rock climbing to boating and swimming. The national parks also allow for engaging in challenging and extreme sports including canyoneering, hang gliding and whitewater rafting.

During the planning phase for your visit and during your time onsite, it’s important select activities that are appropriate for your experience and physical limitations.

“Pick activities that meet your skills and fitness level,” said Cynthia Hernandez, a national park spokesperson. “That might mean being honest if you haven’t prepared for that 15-mile hiking trip.”

2. Bring suitable equipment

In addition to focusing on activities that are appropriate for your abilities, it’s critical that you arrive at a national park prepared with the right equipment for your visit.

Bring the “right shoes for your activity, water, a compass or a map or a life jacket, if you’re going on the water,” continued Hernandez.

It’s also worth noting that weather in many of the wild spaces that make up the national park system can change quickly, so it’s important to bring additional clothing.

“What can start out as a beautiful and sunny day can pivot quickly into rain and sleet,” said Jen Newton, with Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming, of conditions in that park. “Extra layers and a rain jacket can be helpful.”

3. Communication is critical

While this tip is especially critical for solo travelers, it really holds true for anyone visiting national parks, including families and groups: Communicate your plans to others.

“Make sure to leave a trip plan with a friend back home,” advises Hernandez, who also suggests telling someone who’s not on your trip how long you intend to be gone and when you can be expected to return.

This type of communication is especially critical for remote hikes or other far-flung excursions and explorations.

4. Keep away from wildlife

The thrill of seeing wildlife while exploring national parks is unforgettable. But that doesn’t mean it’s open season on taking selfies with wildlife, or engaging with the animals in any way. It’s a rule that should be followed for the safety of the animals and visitors alike.

“Keep a safe distance from wildlife, don’t startle wildlife,” Hernandez explained. “Do not pick up wildlife and do not feed wildlife.”

Understanding bear safety is also critical when visiting some national parks, said Newton. Grand Teton National Park, for instance, is home to both black and Grizzly bears.

“Be bear aware,” said Newton. “Be alert and have good situational awareness.”

When hiking in places like Grand Teton or other national parks, it’s important to make at least some level of noise in order to alert animals in the area of your presence.

“That’s not necessarily singing and clapping, but even just normal conversation can be helpful to let all creatures know you are out and around,” Newton continued.

Newton also recommend carrying bear spray when in Grand Teton (a tip that could apply to other national parks as well that are home to bears). Additionally, know how many seconds of bear spray you have and how far it will go.

5. Review park safety tips in advance

Every national park in the country has its own website and that website includes safety guidelines that visitors need to follow in order to have a good experience at the park in question, said Hernandez.

Be sure to spend some time reading the website for your intended national park and reviewing the safety tips before you arrive on location.

“Even if you visited a park before or have been going to this park for awhile, follow all park recommendations and safety guidelines,” stressed Hernandez, who added that it’s also important to “follow guidelines from park rangers on site.”

The National Park Service has also created a Trip Planning Guide that includes “key tips, links, and tools to help” visitors “Plan like a Ranger” for a national park adventure. The guide can be downloaded  here .

Ultimately, Hernandez said, it’s important for visitors to make what she described as “informed decisions” about their behavior and activities when visiting a national park, in order to help ensure a fun and safe visit.

©2024 Northstar Travel Media, LLC. Visit at  travelpulse.com . Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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