Extended Weekend Getaways 
DELANO – The Ice Palace Minnesota is a remarkable showcase of winter’s captivating beauty, featuring over 90,000 square feet of engaging experiences. Imagine exploring a network of beautifully illuminated tunnels, enjoying thrilling ice slides, and admiring impressive structures that reach toward the sky. This cherished family-owned venue not only delights visitors but also creates a warm atmosphere with a variety of food and beverage options, inviting fire pits for gathering, and a dynamic schedule of events designed to inspire joy—such as mesmerizing fire performances, enchanting ice-themed characters, and imaginative winter figures. Thru March 2 (weather permitting)
In Falcon Heights, at the MN State Fairgrounds, you can explore ice caverns and get lost in a frozen maze where wonder awaits around every turn. Tucked away throughout the cascades of ice, discover elaborate, world-class ice sculptures hand-carved by local and international artists. Thru February 17 (weather permitting). Tickets are on sale at https://icecastles.com/minnesota/
This northernmost state in the contiguous U.S. turns into a frozen wonderland, with Minnesotans embracing the season through a dazzling array of snow and ice sports.
Whether you’re seeking serenity or an adrenaline rush, Minnesota offers plenty of ways to revel in its icy splendor. Here are the top winter adventures to explore on your next getaway.
Cross-Country and Downhill Skiing
Minnesota boasts some of the finest cross-country ski trails in the nation. With over 2,000 miles of trails to choose from, there’s something for everyone, from beginners to seasoned pros. Highlights include Elm Creek Park Reserve in Maple Grove, Hyland Lake Park Reserve in Bloomington, and Theodore Wirth Regional Park in Minneapolis. Equipment rentals are widely available, making it easy to dive into this meditative winter sport.
Prefer the thrill of downhill skiing or snowboarding? Minnesota’s 18 scenic ski areas cater to all skill levels. With vertical drops up to 850 feet and runs stretching over 6,500 feet, you can enjoy everything from fast-paced descents to leisurely slopes. Popular spots include Welch Village, Spirit Mountain, and Buck Hill, located conveniently near the Twin Cities.
Ice Fishing
In Minnesota, fishing doesn’t stop when the lakes freeze over. Instead, it becomes a beloved winter pastime. Ice-fishing enthusiasts can choose from rustic setups to luxurious heated mini-cabins on the ice. Mille Lacs Lake offers an upscale experience with resort-style accommodations, while Lake of the Woods near the Canadian border provides a quieter, off-the-beaten-path vibe. With more than 150 resorts and guides offering rentals and services, you’re sure to find an experience that suits your style.
Pair your ice fishing adventure with a spin on skates. Many of Minnesota’s frozen lakes double as ice-skating rinks, with over 100 centers statewide. Notable spots include Lake of the Isles in Minneapolis, the Central Park Ice Skating Loop in Maple Grove, and the scenic 5-mile Riverbend skate path in Warroad.
Winter Fat Biking
Photo by Aaron Hautala
Cycling enthusiasts rejoice! Winter doesn’t mean putting your bike away. Fat biking—riding bicycles equipped with oversized tires designed for snow—is a popular activity in Minnesota. Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area near Crosby is a premier destination, offering groomed trails perfect for beginners. Trails can also be found throughout northern and southern Minnesota, as well as in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area.
Prefer to stay on foot? Snowshoeing and winter hiking are fantastic alternatives, with many trails allowing you to combine activities like dog sledding or cross-country skiing. The Gunflint Trail near the Canadian border offers an excellent multi-activity adventure.
Ice Climbing
For the bold and adventurous, Minnesota is a prime destination for ice climbing. Frozen waterfalls and purpose-built ice parks provide a playground for climbers of all levels. Beginners should check out Quarry Park and Positive Energy Outdoors in Duluth, where guides offer lessons and equipment rentals. For seasoned climbers, the frozen waterfalls along Lake Superior and cultivated ice formations in Sandstone’s Robinson Park are must-visit spots. Don’t miss the annual Winona Ice Fest, featuring clinics, events, and climbing challenges.
Dog Sledding
Feel the exhilaration of dog sledding as you glide through snowy landscapes powered by highly trained huskies. Ely is a hub for this thrilling activity, with outfitters offering day trips and overnight excursions in the pristine Boundary Waters. Other notable locations include Grand Marais, Two Harbors, and Duluth’s North Shore. Be sure to bundle up—the fast-moving sled creates a brisk wind chill! If motorized speed is more your style, Minnesota’s 22,000 miles of snowmobile trails deliver excitement and breathtaking views. Traverse forests and fields while soaking in the state’s winter beauty.
Snowmobiling
Minnesota’s extensive network of snowmobile trails offers an exhilarating way to explore the state’s winter wonderland. With over 22,000 miles of groomed trails crisscrossing forests, frozen lakes, and rolling prairies, snowmobiling is a beloved pastime for both locals and visitors.
Top destinations for snowmobiling include the Paul Bunyan State Trail, the longest of its kind in the state, which runs through scenic landscapes and quaint towns. The North Shore State Trail is another favorite, offering breathtaking views of Lake Superior and connecting Duluth to Grand Marais. For a more remote experience, head to the trails around Voyageurs National Park, where wildlife sightings add to the adventure.
Many resorts and outfitters provide snowmobile rentals and guided tours, ensuring you’re well-equipped and ready to ride. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-timer, Minnesota’s snowmobiling trails promise unforgettable winter thrills.
Start planning your Minnesota winter weekend getaway today and try at least one of the above adventures to make lasting memories of a lifetime.
