Fun Winter Things to Do in the Twin Cities Gateway
Minneapolis-Saint Paul, Minnesota
When the temperatures drop and a fresh blanket of snow settles over the north metro, the Twin Cities Gatewaytransforms into the ultimate winter playground. Just minutes north of Minneapolis and St. Paul, our 11 vibrant communities—Anoka, Arden Hills, Blaine, Coon Rapids, Fridley, Ham Lake, Lino Lakes, Mounds View, New Brighton, Ramsey, and Shoreview—offer the perfect blend of outdoor adrenaline and indoor cozy.
During this season, we trade the golf clubs for curling stones and the hiking boots for snowshoes. Whether you’re chasing the glow of holiday lights, catching a high-stakes hockey tournament, or warming up with a craft brew by the fire, you’ll find that winter in the Gateway is anything but a hibernation.
Explore all the things to do in the Twin Cities Gateway this winter and discover the magic of the “North of the Cities” season!
Explore Your Gateway Winter
Winter Recreation Glide through the pines on groomed trails or try your hand at the Olympic sport of curling.
Family Winter Fun From trampoline parks to sleigh rides, we have the “I’m bored” cure for every age.
Holiday Magic Pack the cocoa and load the car! Our curated Holiday Light Tour takes you through the most dazzling displays across all 11 cities, from choreographed residential shows to grand community trees.
Signature Winter Events in the Gateway
Fridley Winterfest Experience the charm of Friendly Fridley during its annual Winterfest! Enjoy a luminary trail walk, puzzle competitions, and a “glow” skate-and-sled event that lights up the night.
The Anoka County Polar Plunge is an annual fundraising event held at Lakeside Commons Park in Blaine where brave participants jump into freezing water to raise money for Special Olympics Minnesota athletes.
Tournaments at the National Sports Center Blaine is home to the world’s largest amateur sports facility. Catch the fast-paced action of winter hockey and soccer tournaments at the NSC, where the atmosphere is always electric.
Warm Up With These Gateway Bites
Winter Coffee Roasts Grab a peppermint latte at a local favorite like The Avant Garden in Anoka or Limu Coffee to fuel your morning trek.
Cozy Cocktails & Jazz For a sophisticated winter night, head to Crooners Lounge & Supper Club in Fridley. Sip a classic old-fashioned while listening to world-class jazz in a moody, lakeside setting.
Hearty Comfort Food Nothing beats the cold like the famous wings at Serum’s Good Time Emporium or a burger at Welsche’s Big Ten Tavern Looking for a view? Moe’s American Grill offers the perfect “cabin” vibe.
Choose Your Adventure
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