Things To Do in Rochester, MN, This Winter
When the days get shorter, it can be tempting to hibernate and refuse to leave the house until the weather warms. But don’t let the winter chill stop you from having fun in Rochester, MN! This blog will give you some fun ideas of things to do, whether you love playing in the snow or prefer to stay inside.
Outdoor Activities in Rochester, MN
For those who love to explore the outdoors when a chill is in the air, Rochester is a place that can offer numerous adventures and experiences.
Skiing Near Rochester, MN
Although Minnesota is one of the flattest states in the U.S., there are some skiing options for those wishing to hit the slopes. Coffee Mill Resort, Welch Village, and Afton Alps are a short drive for those who want to spend a day on the lifts or are content to sip hot cocoa in the lodge. The resorts have eateries and events, too, so you’ll be able to enjoy a variety of activities.
While Rochester may not have high mountains to boast about, they do have some bragging rights regarding cross-country skiing options. There are over 100 city parks in Rochester, MN, and some are filled with snow-covered trails to embark upon.
Quarry Hill Nature Center has over eight miles of groomed trails for adventurers to trek, but they encourage snowshoers to venture off the trail and explore over 300 acres. Quarry Hill offers rentals, so if you’re traveling or haven’t purchased equipment, you can get what you need before hitting the trails.
Sledding and Ice Skating in Rochester, MN
Rochester offers families several options to get outside and make lasting memories. Many hills in town are great for sledding and give kids a thrill as they slide down over and over.
What would Minnesota be without ice rinks? There are many options for skating, whether you want to spend a leisurely day skating in circles and practicing those double axles or if you want to challenge some family and friends to a game of hockey. Rinks offer equipment rentals and lessons if a member of your party needs some guidance before skating on their own. Be sure to call ahead to arrange lessons as needed.
Indoor Things To Do in Rochester, MN
Despite the myriad outdoor activities that Rochester offers, there are plenty of indoor activities to partake in when you want to get out of the house but don’t want to be out in the cold.
Families can spend a few hours at the Spark Children’s Museum, where kids can engage in STEAM exhibits. Your kids can immerse themselves in water play, play pretend at the imagination station, invent something new at the maker station, or build a creation at the Lego table. For those who need to expel some energy and embrace their adventurous side, climb up the 16-foot tall Helix.
Bowling and Golfing in Rochester, MN
Challenge each other to a friendly competition and take the crew bowling. Head to Bowlocity for a fun family outing where families can take over a lane, get some snacks, and enjoy each other’s company. They offer standard bowling and cosmic bowling, complete with black lights and disco music. Schedule a lane ahead of time online to ensure availability. And if you want something extra special, consider reserving one of their suites. These rooms have couches, HD screens, high-tops, and even a private bar for the grown-ups.
Sports enthusiasts can find refuge from the elements at the Rochester Indoor Golf Center. This facility allows golfers to practice their swings and fine-tune their skills in a climate-controlled environment. It’s a perfect option for golf enthusiasts who wish to keep their game sharp during the colder months.
Additional Indoor Activities in Rochester, MN
For a more intellectually stimulating indoor activity, consider taking a guided tour of the Mayo Clinic. Learn about the history and groundbreaking medical innovations of this renowned institution and gain insight into the field of health care and research.
For a fun mental challenge, consider exploring one of the city’s escape rooms. Grab a group of friends and test your problem-solving skills as you work together to unravel puzzles and escape within a set time frame.
Rent Rochester Self Storage at Five Star Storage
This city has so much to offer, and Five Star Storage is proud to host two locations in Rochester, MN. Find us on Pendant Lane and Highway 52. When spring starts to bloom and the days get longer, we’ve got a variety of storage solutions to house your holiday décor and winter sports equipment. Contact us to hear about the options we have to offer!