If you’re planning your cold-weather fun, Ice Castles Minnesota should be near the top of your list of winter activities in the Twin Cities.

A Winter Tradition Celebrating 15 Years of Magic

Ice Castles is celebrating 15 years of winter wonder, and the experience remains one of the most unique Minnesota attractions around. Each season, professional ice artists hand-build massive frozen structures using thousands of carefully grown icicles.

Inside, you’ll:

• Explore icy caverns and winding tunnels

• Squeeze through glowing passageways

• Wander beneath towering ice archways

• Race down ice slides

• Sit on frozen thrones and feel like royalty

By day, the craftsmanship is impressive. By night, the entire castle glows with color-changing LED lights embedded deep within the ice, creating a truly immersive, otherworldly experience.

Ice Castles Minnesota: Now Through February 21, 2026

Ice Castles will be open through February 21, 2026, weather permitting. February is an especially popular month to visit, making it a great mid-winter outing for families, couples, and visitors looking for something unforgettable to do outdoors.

This limited seasonal window makes planning ahead important, especially for weekend visits.

Tickets and additional info: https://icecastles.com/minnesota/

Ticket Pricing and Entry Details

Ice Castles is an all-ages event and is designed to be enjoyed by visitors of every generation.

Ticket pricing for the ice castles:

• Peak Tickets: $18–$26

• Off-Peak Tickets: $13–$19

• Children 3 and under: Free

Tickets are sold using timed entry, and spots are limited. When you reserve your tickets, you’ll select a specific arrival time.

Important to know:

• Please arrive during your 30-minute booking window

• Once inside, you may explore as long as you like

• Evening and weekend time slots tend to sell out first

Local tip: Nighttime entries are highly recommended. The LED lighting is what truly brings Ice Castles to life and makes the experience feel magical.

One of the Best Winter Activities in the Twin Cities

Ice Castles continues to be one of the most popular winter activities in the Twin Cities, and it’s easy to see why.

Why people love it:

• A truly unique Minnesota winter attraction

• Perfect for family fun, date nights, and group outings

• Incredible photo opportunities, especially after dark

• No special skills required, just dress warm and explore

Whether you’re local or visiting, this is a winter experience that feels distinctly Minnesota.

What to Wear and What to Expect

This is a fully outdoor winter attraction, so dressing properly is key.

Plan to wear:

• Insulated winter boots with good traction

• A warm coat, hat, gloves, and scarf

• Hand warmers, especially for kids and nighttime visits

Expect icy walkways, cold temperatures, and plenty of places to stop and take photos. Most guests spend at least an hour exploring the castle at a relaxed pace.

Helpful Tips Before You Go

To make the most of your visit in early 2026:

• Reserve tickets early, especially for February weekends

• Choose an evening entry for the best lighting experience

• Arrive on time for your selected entry window

• Keep an eye on weather conditions, as extreme cold can affect operations

Look Ahead to an Unforgettable Winter Experience

As we wrap up Day 365 of 2025, now is the perfect time to plan ahead for January or February 2026. Ice Castles is more than just a winter event. It’s an immersive experience that celebrates winter in the most Minnesota way possible.

Bundle up, bring your camera, and make Ice Castles part of your 2026 winter plans. It’s one of the coolest things you can do in the Twin Cities.