Are you looking at the next month and thinking…”OMG, what the heck I am going to do all of February?” While I normally never want time to go by fast because it is precious, I think many of us, especially those that live in northerly climates, are anxious to get to Spring! Before COVID, I always tried to look for fun things to do as a family—new experiences or events to take the kiddos to around the Twin Cities. Since COVID, I haven’t been looking too much since I figured most things would be virtual. Like most people, I am pretty over all things virtual. I mean, I still want to support local businesses who can’t do their normal events in person, but it just isn’t the same.

If you are like me, and feel comfortable getting out of the house to do some safe activities, then the following list is perfect for you! I have been doing some research over the past couple weeks on things we can do to get us through February—most of which happen to be outdoors, so will give us some fresh air too! Obviously there are lots of great options out there for ice skating and skiing, but I wanted to give you some different ideas that you may not normally think of. I think there should be something on the list for everyone, and if you do any of them, I would love to hear from you, so tag me on Instagram.

Alana xo

1. Outdoor Curling

Brookview Golf & Lawn Bowling is also another option-they are offering outdoor pub curling. This one is a bit a different as I think it is an artificial rink rather than on ice, and looks more like a combination of curling and shuffle board, but still looks like so much fun! You will need to call to make a reservation (up to 7 days ahead of time), and they have both public and private rink rental options.

Outdoor curling would be a great option for those folks looking for a safe event to do as a team!

2. Stillwater Ice Palace MAZE

You must purchase tickets in advance, and from what I have seen they are running low. Tickets are $15 for everyone over the age of 12, $10 for kids under 12, and kids 4 and under are free! They will also have an Ice Bar onsite that will have drinks and food available for takeout, ice sculptures, and some special character appearances, like Elsa.

3. Ice Bars

Have you heard of these? They are basically just outdoor bars, but the owners have come up with some creative ways to keep us warm and entertained! We went to The Howe in Minneapolis last weekend, and it was so much fun (see video below). It was an hour reservation for up to 6 people—we had our own ice beer pong table, ice bag boards, and fire pit. They had fun cocktails, and gave you a s’more making kit upon your arrival. It was definitely a nice late Friday afternoon activity, and felt nice to be doing something a bit different. The Minneapolis St Paul Magazine has a great article about some of the other Ice Bars you may be interested in checking out (did I see that the Handsome Hog is opened back up and has an Ice Bar?)!

4. Events at Birch’s on the Lake

5. Snow Tubing

There are so many great options in and around the cities to try some snow tubing. Here is a list of a few places:

Buck Hill: Price: $10/hour on weekdays and $12/hour on weekends (advanced reservations required. Also, check out their Northern Lights event from Feb. 25-Feb. 27, but hurry because tickets are selling out fast)

Green Acres Tubing: Price: $16/session (tickets purchased in person, but bring waiver)

Trollhaugen: Price: $23 for two hours (advanced reservations required)

7. Golf Simulators

Yes, we have a Top Golf, yes it is open, and yes it is always a good time, but in a plug to support some local golf courses, I wanted to share a couple that are offering simulators. The down side for some, this activity is indoors, but the one that we went to, Phalen Golf Course, was very spread out from the other two simulators, and we could have chosen to wear masks the whole time. The plus side is that the simulators are really fun, you can play a ton of real courses, the rates are reasonable, they generally tend to be pretty accurate with your swing, and you don’t have to worry about your kids falling off the second floor of Top Golf (or are those just my kids?).

Phalen Golf Course (Price: $34 per hour +tax)

Victory Links Golf Course (Price: $55 per 50 minute bay rental for up to 4 players or prepay for 6 hours for $300)