The Ice Rink in Edina MN

The Best Ice Skating in Minneapolis: Winter Fun in Minnesota

Wintertime is the perfect time to lace up those ice skates and find a pond. In Minnesota, we have so many options for ice skating and in the Twin Cities, even more.

Thanks to a mix of indoor and outdoor locations, there is no reason to stop. Here are some of the best Ice Skiing in Minneapolis.

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Ice Skating is a National Past Time

Ice Skating first started in Scandinavia as early as 1000 BCE. It’s no surprise that the immigrants brought their love of gliding on ice with them to MN.

For many people, right when the ice first forms, they are out there getting ready to hit the lake. Today, we also create our own rinks in the backyard, on city property, and enjoy the pastime just as much. 

The Different Types Skating Rinks

There are a few different Skating Rinks. First is the Lake. The most traditional form of ice-skating. You can find them everywhere.

But when the ice is thick enough, designated areas are sectioned off for recreational Ice Skating. The hard-core traditional skaters prefer the lake or pond to another form.

When a lake isn’t available, like in the middle of St. Paul, we have man-made rinks. They can be any size and shape, but most take the traditional oval rink shape. You can usually find a warming house nearby.

There is also indoor staking. Like the artificial ice rinks outside, these come with the added benefit of warmer tempters. They still have to be cold enough to maintain the ice, but without the added elements of wind, it is warmer.

The Top Indoor Ice Skating in Minneapolis

The easiest way to go ice-skating year-round is by finding a rec center. They usually have indoor rinks that will shelter you from the elements.

Most locations will rent out skates and have a provide snacks bar.

These rinks usually cost a small admission fee. They are used by the cities and can be rented out for teams and training, but they have open skate times, too.

Indoor Ice Rink
Indoor Ice Rink at the Eden Prairie Community Center

The Top Outdoor Ice Skating in Minneapolis

There are some amazing outdoor ice skating experiences in the Twin Cities. I’m not talking about the city’s hokey-filled ponds. I’m talking about the magical experiences under the city lights.

They are perfect for bringing your date and making a romantic hot spot. Most prohibit the use of hockey equipment, making it perfect for kids to test out their ice skating skills.

Skate the Star at Mall of America in Bloomington

New in 208, this skating is a free ice rink. The rink has been refrigerated to stay consistently around 8 degrees at all times. They offer skate rentals for those that need it.

Ice Skating is right out front of the Mall of America’s north side where guests glide around the Mall of America’s iconic Star Statue.

Bloomington is a great town to explore. Make sure to check out some of the other great things to do.

Lebanon Hills in Eagan

Are you ready for old-fashioned ice-skating in Egan right on the lake? During the seasons, the lake will be available for skaters. But on New Year’s Eve, is when the real fun happens.

They bring in the New Year by candlelight skating party. Followed up with s’mores roasting on an open fire and a warm hot-coco. The event is $5 per person.

Eagan is also hosting the Ice Palace Maze this year. There are also tons of great things to do in Eagan you’ll want to check out.

Centennial Lakes Park in Edina

One of the coolest places to ice skate in the Twin Cities is at Centennial Lakes Park. If possible, head out at night.

The man-made pond has visitors skating on over 10 acres of groomed ice. But what makes this place so unique is that it’s nestled in-between the buildings.

A night, when lit up, it becomes magical. Their large warming house and snack area put it over the edge. Ice Skate Rentals are available, otherwise, it’s free to enjoy.

For more information, check out my review of Ice Skating at Centennial Lakes in Edina.

Centennial Lakes warming house
Centennial Lakes Warming House in Edina

Minneapolis Winter Skate in Loring Park  

Minneapolis knows how to have a good time. Starting late November through March, Loring Park becomes a haven for Ice Skating in Minneapolis.

It becomes most popular during the Holidazzle. But what makes this so unique, it that the Minneapolis Skyline is in full view.

Thanks in part to Wells Fargo, they sponsor the free skating rink and complimentary skates during warming-house hours on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more information and weather updates, check out Skate Downtown.

Central Park Ice Skating Loop in Maple Grove

Maple Grove has created winding 810-foot looping paths in Central Park. Lit by LED lights, they design this rink for skaters of every age and skating level. But sorry, hot hockey sticks or pucks.

Around the path is a railing providing plenty of opportunities to sit down along the way. Or take a break by the outdoor fireplaces or in the warming house. Inside you’ll find concessions, more fireplaces, and restrooms.

Skating is free and rentals are available. For more information on hours, check out Central Park of Maple Grove.

Lake of the Isles in Minneapolis

The Lake of the Isles is a bit of a no-frill staking experience. But the neighboring mansions and lights of downtown take the experience up a notch or two.

There is plenty of room for hockey players and ice skaters to carve out their own section of ice. Inside the warming house, there are loaner skates available.

Skate the Oval in Roseville

The Guidant John Rose MN OVAL is one of the largest outdoor refrigerated skating rinks in North America. They have hosted events like the World Cup of Speedskating and the National Brandy Championships.

For Minnesotans, this makes the OVAL a one-stop skating destination for every type of skating you can think of. It includes Bandy, Speedskating, Figure Skating, Hokey, and programs to learn to skate.

The Oval cost $6 to skate, and they offer rentals as well. Check out their website for a schedule of events.

Wells Fargo WinterSkate in St Paul

Skate with a backdrop of a lit-up Rice Park and the Landmark Center. Even better, go during the Winter Carnival! Skating is free for all, and $4 skate rental.

If you are a WellsFargo Bank customer, just show your bank car and score a free skate rental. Free skating lessons are offered throughout the season. Confirm the dates online.

Water Street Inn’s River-Side Rink in Stillwater

New to 2022 is the Water Street Inn’s, River-Side Rink. This is a stunning location for an Ice Rink. Currently, the Worlds Snow Competition is being held there, and their holiday lights are still on display.

Skating is free and open from 8am – 10pm. Bring your own skates. Check out their website for private and different nights. Weekends are always open skate.

Things To Bring With You Ice Skating

Warm Clothing

This will depend on the weather, but if you want to spend any time Ice Skating in Minneapolis, bring with you your mittens, hats, snow pants, a warm coat, and additional layers.

If you are new to layering in winter, check out how to properly layer in Winter Hiking Tips. You can always take layers off once you get going.

Ice Skates

Most ice skating rinks rent them. But you may end up in long lines waiting to get a pair or worse, they may be out of your size.

With kids, they make ice skates now that are adjustable for their fast-growing feet. Last season, we picked up a pair of Lake Placid Adjustable Skates.

Cash

Bring a small amount of cash with you for the Snack Bar. Usually, about $5 per person will ensure everyone gets a snack and/or hot drink.

With Kids

Skating Aid

Skating Aids are made out of PVC pipe for cheap. They will give you a break from trying to hold your kids upright while they are just getting started.

For some plans on how to make them, check out at Backyard Hokey. Many rinks rent these, but they can be a hot ticket item on a busy day at the rink.

Helmet

Personal Choice. You can never go wrong when it comes to protecting your kids when they are first learning to ice skate. From personal experience, you don’t want to be the only parent there, with a child that isn’t wearing a helmet.

What is your favorite place to ice skate in Minneapolis?

The Lake of the Isles is a bit of a no-frill staking experience. But the neighboring mansions and lights of downtown take the experience up a notch or two.

There is plenty of room for hockey players and ice skaters to carve out their own section of ice. Inside the warming house, there are loaner skates available.

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Best Ice Skating in Minneapolis

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