Whether you’re new to the Twin Cities or have been here for many years, you may just be surprised by how much fun your winter can be. Winter coats and mittens are no longer optional as spring is well on its way. So what is there to do for the whole family in Minnesota? There’s something for those who brave the cold and those who want to stay cozy indoors.
INDOOR ACTIVITIES
Tropics Indoor Waterpark
This tropical-themed waterpark has activities designed for all ages. With areas like Shipwreck Beach, a zero-depth play area that features a shipwreck boat slide, interactive splashing palm tree, and a fun water walk, everyone in your family will have a fun time. Play volleyball or basket in the main pool area or climb the giant floating sea creatures. Looking for the adult’s place to play? Relax in the adult-only whirlpool and patio area.
Zero Gravity Trampoline Park
Zero Gravity Trampoline Park features 11,000 square feet of trampoline jumping surfaces, including dodgeball, foam pit, virtual reality, and an indoor playground. Specializing in kid’s birthday parties and group events (if you’re looking for something a little more), they have arcade games and a laser tag facility. Zero Gravity is the perfect venue for kids to burn off their energy and parents to sit back and watch.
Lookout Ridge Indoor Playground
The nature theme of Lookout Ridge Playground gives off the vibe of a much warmer climate than a Minnesota winter. With cliffs and caves to explore, a giant tree to climb, wildlife murals, and nature sites throughout. Your kids can venture the top of the treehouse, cross over the gigantic fallen tree, and race down the 30-foot slide.
Bell Museum
The official natural history museum and planetarium of Minnesota is located right in Saint Paul. This place allows you to engage all of your senses in the Touch & See Lab with 10,000-year-old fossils, living plants and animals, and so much more. You can even take a journey to the distant cosmos or deep inside the human brain at the planetarium. Discover the beauty of all living things on earth and the unknown outside our atmosphere.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Tubing at Trapp Farm Park
Trapp Farm Park is the best place to snow tube in the Twin Cities’ southeast metro. There are no tow ropes at this facility, but the walk uphill is well worth it. At only $5 a person (must use the tubes on site), you’re bound to have a whole lot of snowy fun with the family.
Ice Skating
The city of Minneapolis maintains outdoor ice rinks at 24 parks. They even offer free loaner skates on a first-come, first-serve basis. Stay up to date on the ice rinks status before heading on out.
Snowshoeing
Looking to get a little exercise in the snow? Try snowshoeing. With places like 16 Three Rivers Parks that offer snowshoe rentals, you can enjoy a nice winter walk without busting through the snow and worrying about losing your shoe. Get bundled up and take the family out for a winter-white scenic view of Minnesota.
Skiing
One of the most common winter outdoor activities you can do in the Twin Cities. One of the benefits of living in Minnesota is the multitude of options for winter sports such as downhill skiing and snowboarding. Get your heart pumping and enjoy the ride of one of the many hills in the area.