Top 5 Winter Adventures to Explore

Head to Bunker Hills Regional Park, where you can go skiing or snowshoeing or combine winter sports and spending time with your furry best friend!

Bunker Hills Regional Park is home to 12 miles of skijoring trails to enjoy the sport that combines cross-country skiing and dog sledding with your pup! More than eight kilometers of groomed trail meanders through the oaks, pines and prairie in the western portion of the park.

Hit the Trail!

Take your love of biking to the snowy season at the fat tire biking trails at Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve in Lino Lakes. The 3.2 kilometers of trails include plenty of space for biking and cross-country skiing!

Let’s Ride!

Bring yourself, a friend, or your whole family on an evening stroll through the trail at Springbrook Nature Center in Fridley. Naturalists will guide your way with the cozy glow of lantern light on the trails, and let you warm your hands over a fire. If conditions allow, you may rent or bring your own snowshoes!

Experience winter trails in a new way! Sleigh rides are available at Bunker Park Stable. With a variety of sleighs to suit any group or occasion, take a ride on the 2-4-person Antique Sleigh, a 14-person Red Bench Seat Sleigh, and two 25-person Flatbed Sleighs. The Antique Sleigh ride is half an hour and the larger sleighs are approximately 45-minute-long rides. Reservations are necessary and COVID protocols are in place to ensure all visitors and staff are safe and healthy.

Merrily Roll Along!

If you’re looking for a place to warm up but still need to blow off some steam, check out one of our indoor playgrounds or adventure parks!  Kids of all ages will love to place, climb, slide and splash! The water’s always warm and welcoming at Tropics Indoor Water Park at the Shoreview Community Center, but after a new 7,500-square-foot expansion, fun-seekers of all ages have even more inviting reasons to visit. Head to the Eagles Nest Indoor Playground at the New Brighton Community Center for this adrenaline-burning destination designed for children age 12 and younger. Take a spin on the Sky Rider indoor coaster to fly over Urban Air Adventure Park, named “Best Place to Take Energetic Kids,” and “Best Gym in America for Kids” by Shape Magazine. Leap as high as you dare at Zero Gravity Trampoline Park in Mounds View, where you’ll find 11,000-square feet of leaping, jumping, bouncing and flipping fun.

Looking for more wintry fun? Check out our guide to shopping local this holiday season and, if all that activity leaves you hungry, check out our guide to takeout, plus, follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more winter inspiration.

Ticknor Hill Bed & Breakfast

Cozy up in between your winter adventures with a few nights at Ticknor Hill Bed & Breakfast in Anoka!

This Queen Anne Victorian home, built in 1867, is on the National Register of Historic Places. Located in the northwestern “just around the corner” from all of the cultural and major sporting events the Twin Cities have to offer.

Guests can enjoy the peacefulness of the porches, the warmth of the fireplaces in the parlor or library, the sunshine streaming in the conservatory, or a game of billiards.

With comfortable, tastefully decorated rooms, you’re certain to enjoy your stay at Ticknor Hill. All guest rooms include breakfast and private bath with shower. Additionally, the rooms are smoke free and air conditioned for your health and comfort.

Holiday Inn Express® Hotel of Coon Rapids – Blaine

For a comfy, family friendly and budget-friendly stay, head to Holiday Inn Express® hotel of Coon Rapids – Blaine.

From The National Sports Center and Schwan Super ice-skating rink to Northtown Mall, a number of attractions are located just minutes from the hotel’s property. Staying near downtown Minneapolis makes it easy to enjoy a night in the Twin Cities.

The location near Minneapolis is just one of many perks you’ll enjoy at the Holiday Inn Express® hotel of Coon Rapids – Blaine. Upon entering the hotel, you’ll be warmly welcomed by friendly staff. Enjoy a complimentary, hot Express Start Breakfast Bar every morning. When you’re not exploring Coon Rapids, the hotel’s indoor, heated pool, whirlpool and 24-hour fitness center help you unwind and relax.