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.

1. Canal Park
Canal Park, Duluth, MN 55802, USA
Flickr/Pete Markham
Duluth is spectacular during the winter, and Canal Park is the perfect place for a winter getaway. Enjoy views of ice on Lake Superior, and warm up in the surrounding shops and restaurants.
2. Ely
Flickr/Ann
Ely, MN 55731, USA
Flickr/Ann
There's so much to love about Ely in the winter, but dogsledding definitely tops the list of activities you can experience here. International Wolf Center is also a fantastic winter destination. Nothing beats an up close look at this adorable and fascinating animals.
3. Lutsen
Lutsen, MN, USA
Flickr/Jim Sorbie
Sure you can ski in many different places in Minnesota, but even if you don't ski, head to Lutsen for the views and have a luxurious winter getaway in the phenomenal lodging.
4. Eden Prairie Ice Castles
Eden Prairie, MN, USA
Flickr/Amy Meredith
January through March, nothing beats the Eden Prairie Ice Castles for sheer beauty and entertainment.
5. The Scenic North Shore Drive (Highway 61)
North Shore, MN 56336, USA
Tony Webster from Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Explore your way up the North Shore this winter. The scenery is a little different every year and the views are just the beginning. Stop in all the small towns along the way to get the best experience possible, ending in Grand Portage.
6. Minnehaha Falls
Flickr/USFWSmidwest
Minnehaha Falls, Minneapolis, MN 55417, USA
Joe Passe / Flickr
If you think it's beautiful in the summer, wait until it's frozen. This is one of the most spectacular things in Minnesota.
7. Holidazzle
Facebook/Holidazzle
Head to Loring Park this year for a Holidazzle experience like none before. It's a whole village of activities and holiday spirit, with food and fun activities like games and ice skating! Check out the Holidazzle Facebook page for information on dates, times and special events so you don't miss out on any of the holiday fun!

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8. Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge
Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, 7071 Riverview Rd, Thomson, IL 61285, USA
Flickr/USFWS Midwest
Ice fishing clinics for the kids and beautiful views are just two of the reasons to visit this Minnesota area this year. The wildlife adds even more!
9. Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza
Hole-In-The-Day Drive, Hole-In-The-Day Dr, Nisswa, MN 56468, USA
Facebook/Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza
Since 1991, the world's largest ice fishing contest happens every January in Brainerd. Even if you don't fish, it's worth the trip for the fun atmosphere and to see the sheer volume of the anglers who show up. For more information, you can visit their Facebook page or check out the official website.
10. Superior Ice Caves
Lake Superior, MN, USA
Chad Fennell / Flickr
Explore the ice caves along Lake Superior's shores this year! Be sure to wait until they're safe, and you'll never forget the awesome views.
11. The US Pond Hockey Championships
4711 Shady Oak Rd, Minnetonka, MN 55343, USA
Flickr/Brian Adams
Happening every winter on Lake Minnetonka, you can play or watch an epic hockey tournament. It's Minnesota's favorite sport played the right way! For all the information on playing or attending The US Pond Hockey Championships, check out their Facebook page.
12. Wabasha
Wabasha, MN, USA
Facebook/Wabasha-Kellogg Chamber of Commerce & Convention Visitors Bureau
Head to Wabasha for the beautiful views and small-town charm. Chances are you'll be doing nothing but smile if you're there for their annual Grumpy Old Men Festival. For information on all the fun winter happenings in Wabasha, be sure to follow along on their Facebook page.
13. Head along the Gunflint Trail to a cozy cabin and experience untouched Minnesota wilderness along with phenomenal winter recreation. There are plenty of places to stay!
Gunflint Trail, Grand Marais, MN 55604, USA
Flickr/Clint McMahon
14. Waconia Snowmobile Show
21591 US-169, Elk River, MN 55330, USA
Midwest Ride-In / Facebook
The Waconia Snowmobile Show, also known as the Midwest Ride-In, typically happens at the end of January. Every year the multiple day event has a different theme. Nothing makes for a cooler weekend! Check out the Midwest Ride-In Facebook page for all the important details so you don't miss out on this awesome event and place to visit in Minnesota in winter!
15. International Eelpout Festival, Walker
Walker, MN, USA
International Eelpout Festival
You haven't experienced a real winter in MN without attending this funny festival. In honor of Minnesota's ugliest bottom-dwelling fish, the eelpout, people will gather every February for some true Minnesota fun. EDITOR'S NOTE: It has unfortunately been announced that the festival has been canceled.
16. Winona
Winona, MN 55987, USA
Flickr/cursedthing
Winona features wintery celebrations all season long, including events such as their Holiday Window Walk and Winter Carnival. Visit Winona's official website for all the details on these events and more.

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!

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More to Explore

Winter in Minnesota

Katie Feldkamp | December 02, 2022

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:

  • Highway 61
  • Glacial Ridge Trail
  • Gunflint Trail
  • Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway

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

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