Posted in Minnesota
December 04, 2015
16 Unforgettable Places In Minnesota That Everyone Must Visit This Winter
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, it’ll provide an action-packed winter for you, your friends, and your family, that will have you feeling amazingly grateful to be living in MN.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate

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.


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.

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.

January through March, nothing beats the Eden Prairie Ice Castles for sheer beauty and entertainment.

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.


If you think it's beautiful in the summer, wait until it's frozen. This is one of the most spectacular things in Minnesota.

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!

Ice fishing clinics for the kids and beautiful views are just two of the reasons to visit this MN area this year. The wildlife adds even more!

The world's largest ice fishing contest is happening for the 23rd time this year 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.

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.

January 14-17 on Lake Nokomis, you can play or watch an epic hockey tournament. It's Minnesota's favorite sport played the right way!

Head to Wabasha for the beautiful views, the Eagle Center, and the 23rd Annual Grumpy Old Men Festival on
February 27, 2016!


This year it's from January 29-31, 2016 - the theme is Minnesota Orphans, former manufactures from MN. Nothing makes for a cooler weekend!

You haven't experienced a real winter in MN without attending this funny festival. In honor of MN's ugliest bottom-dwelling fish, the eelpout, people will gather February 18th-21st for some true MN fun.

Winona has their Winter Carnival from February 12-14th and you have to be there for fun activities, music, and amazing food (like the chili cook off)!
What else are you planning to do this winter? Share your ideas and then your photos on our Facebook Page to inspire your fellow Minnesotans and make your MN winter bucket list!