This Minnesota Ice Castle Is Like Something Out of a Fairy Tale

We have a lot going for us here in Minnesota. Our fairytale landscape that often looks like Middle Earth is one of the best in the country. Our long winters, with their many winter activities, are famous for their beauty as well as their cold. But what if we can do even better than that when we combine the two. This amazing ice castle in Stillwater, Minnesota, is like something out of a fairytale.

Unlike other ice castles you may have visited, this one doesn't use traditional building methods.

Instead, the castle is a free-flowing mass of unsculpted ice, complete with beautiful natural archways.

But you don't just have to admire the splendor from the outside.

Visitors are invited in to get a full glimpse of this magical beauty.

Surrounded by shimmering ice in every direction, you'll feel like you rule the castle yourself.

When the castle is lit at night, the ice emits a magical, otherworldly glow.

And when you're ready to go back outside, you can take a slide down the smooth ice tunnel.

You'll emerge into a winter wonderland of pure enchantment.

Lucky visitors will have a chance to meet the queen of the castle...

Not to mention her good friend!

This ice castle is being built at a new location along the St. Croix River in Stillwater, Minnesota. When complete, it will be open every Wednesday through Monday. Check in here to find out when the castle opens and see tips for planning your visit.

Will you go to the Stillwater ice castle this year? Do you have any other favorite winter activities in Minnesota? Let us know in the comments.