You And Your Partner Will Love These 13 Unique Winter Date Ideas In Minnesota

As winter slowly creeps its way into Minnesota and we enjoy the on-and-off sunny days, we dread the inevitable cold ones. Our days of leisurely outdoor strolls are limited, and winter date ideas in Minneapolis just got a bit more complicated. It's hard to pick a place to go, and once you get inside, you have to take off six layers of clothing just to put them back on in another hour. But there's hope for us yet! Not only are there a plethora of amazing winter date places in MN, but some are even outside, so we can forget that whole layering issue. Here are some of our favorite dates for winter in Minneapolis:

1. Downhill Night Skiing

Skiing is already so fun, but add in the nighttime views from MN resorts like Spirit Mountain and you've got the best date night spot around. Read more about what you can expect from Spirit Mountain.

2. Cross-Country Skiing

Not only can you find great cross-country skiing during the winter in Minneapolis, but many parks like French Regional Park in the Three Rivers District offer lighting for that romantic evening ski. Learn more about French Regional Park and other amazing Minnesota playgrounds.

3. Dinner & Bowling

Another great winter date idea in Minneapolis and its surroundings? Hit the lanes for a fun night out, and enjoy some amazing food while you're at it (especially at The Nook, a Saint Paul favorite)! Learn more about The Nook.

4. Ice Skating

All right, so maybe it's not all that unique, but it sure is fun, and Minnesota has some of the most beautiful skating rinks! They are fun date ideas during a Minneapolis winter, or anywhere in the state, for that matter. Take advantage of the season and bundle up at an outdoor rink like Rice Park. Looking for more? Check out this amazing ice skating trail in Minnesota.

5. Visit the conservatory.

Spend a night inside listening to some amazing music in a beautiful heated garden, or just go for the day and enjoy the tropical vibes. Get more details about the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory.

6. Indoor Rock Climbing

Experience all the fun of an outdoor adventure in a heated climbing gym. Race each other to the top! Be sure to check out Vertical Endeavors this winter in Minneapolis.

7. Winter Festivals

There are so many winter events that happen in MN, from ice fishing festivals to the Winter Carnival to hockey tournaments! There are a ton of winter date ideas in Minneapolis and beyond. Explore more Minnesota winter festivals.

8. Snowshoeing

Go out for a long romantic walk on a beach that's frozen and covered in snow. Learn more about Mille Lacs Kathio State Park.

9. Attend a murder mystery dinner. UPDATE: Spicer Castle is permanently closed.

There are actually multiple places you can do this; one of the favorites is Spicer Castle, where you can spend a weekend (or just go for dinner), have an unforgettable murder mystery experience, and enjoy some of the best winter scenery in MN.

10. Take a brewery tour.

Or winery. Or really anything involving alcohol. Taking an inside tour is the perfect way to warm up on a winter day (and the drinks don't hurt either). Another fun date idea during a Minneapolis winter? Check out Under Pressure Brewing Company and its butterbeer! It's under ten miles outside of the city.

11. Try winter biking!

If you haven't tried a fat bike yet, now is the time! It's incredibly fun and you and your SO can enjoy the winter landscapes together.

Head to Giants Ridge for some awesome fat biking.

12. Casino Night

No matter where you live in MN, you can find a casino somewhere nearby! Make it an overnight trip if you win some money! The pictured Treasure Island Resort and Casino also contains a Minnesota indoor waterpark, making for an awesome day out in the winter in Minneapolis and its surroundings.

13. Global Culture Date

Try a new type of food or visit one of the Twin Cities' cultural hotspots. Midtown Global Market is full of amazing food and local shopping, and there's always something happening here! It is an awesome winter date idea in Minneapolis. Get more details on what is in store for a visit to the Midtown Global Market.

Which of these winter date ideas in Minneapolis have you tried before? Which are you most excited to try? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

While it might be hard to imagine it when you are in the thick of winter, check out (make plans to visit!) these awesome summer destinations in Minnesota.