Though some might see winter as a time to hibernate, here in the Twin Cities it’s when the fun begins! Wondering where to play in the snow near Minneapolis? Columbia Park, in the heart of the city, is the long-standing choice for the best sledding hill in Minnesota. We’ll list the best local spots for our favorite winter activities so some snowy fun is never far away.
Looking for Local Winter Wonderlands? Here’s Where to Play in the Snow Near Minneapolis
Ice fishing, snow tubing, and cross country skiing are just some of the outdoor pastimes made for a Minnesota winter. But you don’t have to leave the city behind to enjoy them. Our list of where to play in the snow near Minneapolis has the best wintry pastimes that are minutes away.
Theodore Wirth Park
Wondering where can I play in the snow in Minneapolis? Theodore Wirth Park is a one-stop destination for almost every winter activity. The largest park in the city has areas for cross country skiing, snowboarding and sledding throughout its 759 acres. It even offers one of the only snow tubing hills in Minneapolis for higher speed fun. Park at The Trailhead, minutes from Highway 55, to rent equipment or sip hot chocolate.
Location: 1221 Theodore Wirth Parkway, Minneapolis, MN 55422
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Columbia Park
Largely regarded as having the best sledding hill in Minnesota, the Columbia Golf Club in Columbia Park is the place to be for sledding. The steepest hill has been delighting sledders for over a century, and the day after any storm will find it crowded with people. Wondering where to play in the snow near Minneapolis with younger children? The surrounding course and parklands offer smaller sledding hills, with parking available off of Central Ave NE in Northeast Minneapolis.
Location: 800 Columbia Parkway, Minneapolis, MN 55418
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Photo by Minnesota Monthly
Lake Harriet Park
Ice fishing in Minneapolis can compete with some of the best spots up north at our very own Lake Harriet. Surrounded by parkland, Lake Harriet is easily accessible from southwestern Minneapolis in the East Harriet neighborhood. With a maximum depth of 85 feet, this link in the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes offers ice fishing for every taste and ability. Walleye, northern pike and crappies are just some of the native species that abound all winter long.
Location: 4135 W Lake Harriet Parkway, Minneapolis, MN 55409
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Battle Creek Regional Park West
Though the 1,840 acres of Battle Creek’s pristine prairie and wetlands are just east of downtown St. Paul, you’d never know it. Throughout the winter, the park plays host to some of the best cross country skiing in Ramsey County. Beginners and advanced skiers alike can enjoy over 8 miles of groomed trails, some of which include lights for night skiing.
Location: 75 Winthrop Street South, St. Paul, MN 55119
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Vulcan Snow Park
When it comes to snow parks near Minneapolis, Vulcan Snow Park is not to be missed. This free, 10 day event, from January 28th-February 7th, 2021, is part of the St. Paul Winter Carnival. Celebrating all things snow, some of Vulcan Snow Park’s activities include a giant snow slide, snow sculpting contest, snow maze, and snow mountain. For the truly brave, there’s also the annual Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics Minnesota.
Location: 1295 Snelling Avenue North, St. Paul, MN 55108
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Photo by MSSnowPark
The team at D&T Appliance Company are your experts for local winter entertainment. From where to play in the snow near Minneapolis to planning a Santa visit, we know how to have fun when it’s freezing!
