5 Fun Things to Do in Winter in Minnesota

The weather is rapidly cooling and the cold Minnesota winters are preparing to set in. A drop in temperature doesn’t mean that you have to drop everything and hibernate, though! Minnesota’s winter scene is abuzz with activities for everybody in the family, from winter sports to art events. So, bundle up, put on the snow tires, and get ready to fall in love with these fun things to do in winter in Minnesota:

Visit Minnehaha Falls

If you thought that Minnehaha’s 53-foot waterfall was impressive in the warmer months, you’ll be blown away in the winter. The subzero temperatures freeze the waterfall into a spectacular, icy array that showcases the limestone ledges that the falls tumble over. If you love the diamond-sparkle of snow and ice, you’ll love Minnehaha’s untouched winter beauty.

Tap for Maple Syrup

Though you’ll have to wait for late winter to enjoy this activity (Minnesota sap usually runs between March 15 and April 20), it will certainly be worth it! Minnesota state parks host free events where Minnesotan families can get some hands-on experience tapping a tree, collecting sap, and turning it into maple syrup. Families even get to enjoy a sample of their delicious treat!

Check Out the Wildlife

Winter in Minnesota brings out an array of wildlife that are not quite as prominent in the warmer months. With a set of binoculars and a warm getup, you can search the snow for signs of life. November and December brings wintering bald eagles, while the later winter months gives way to coyotes, deer, and foxes. Don’t forget to check your waterways. The Minnesotan rivers give sanctuary to trumpeter swans and Canada geese.

Visit the Winter Carnival

Perhaps the biggest event, the St. Paul Winter Carnival offers families a way to get a taste of everything the brisk Minnesota winter has to offer. One of the most fascinating events is the building of the annual ice castle. To date, there have been 36 unique castles built for the festival, and they continue to draw natives and tourists alike. If you’re looking for more activities to do with the children, the Winter Carnival boasts 3 parades, the last of which ends with a fireworks display in Rice Park. You can read more about the events of the Winter Carnival in our upcoming article!

Curl Up with a Warm Drink

If you’re looking to stay indoors for the winter, there’s no end to the cozy restaurants in Minnesota. One such spot is Laddie Lake Pub, which offers a romantic, lakefront setting. From lamb shanks to prime rib, you’ll find delicious, stick-to-your-ribs food that keeps you warm against the harsh weather. Check out this coupon from Dollars & Sense, and you’ll get a free lunch or dinner entree with the purchase of an entree.

As you make plans for fun things to do in winter in Minnesota, don’t forget to keep your eye on Dollars & Sense, Minneapolis’ premier coupon service, serving over a million households in the Twin Cities’ area.