When the seasons start to change and temperatures drop, Bloomington, Minnesota becomes a winter wonderland. Whether you delight in being outside in the elements or visiting cozy indoor attractions, there’s never a shortage of activities that can be shared with the entire family.
As you start to plan your winter calendar, consider these options in and around Bloomington that are perfect to enjoy with grandchildren of all ages.
5 Winter Activities to Enjoy Indoors in Bloomington
Sometimes the chilly winter temperatures in Minnesota can limit your outdoor possibilities. When cabin fever starts to set in, get the grandkids out of the house while still staying warm with these five activities.
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
Open 365 days a year, the Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is the perfect place to get a taste of the tropics without ever leaving the Twin Cities. Attractions like the Sunken Gardens come into full bloom during the early winter months, while other experiences such as the Ribbit Zibit allow kids of all ages to come face to face with a stunning array of vibrantly colored exotic frogs.
Twin Cities Pro Sports
Minneapolis, which is just a 15 minute drive from Bloomington, is home to three major professional sports teams: the Vikings of the National Football League, the Timberwolves of the National Basketball Association and the Wild of the National Hockey League. The seasons for these teams span the entire winter, providing plenty of occasions where you can take the grandkids to see the pros.
Mall of America®
No list of indoor winter activities in Bloomington would be complete without a mention of Mall of America®. Beyond the 500+ stores, this legendary mall is home to the Sea Life Aquarium, Nickelodeon Universe® theme park and the Crayola Experience. Plus, the winter brings additional holiday attractions like the Santa Experience, where kids can sit on Santa’s lap, get photos taken and create unique arts and crafts.
Edinborough Park
When the grandkids need to burn off some energy, Edinborough Park is the perfect place to do it during the winter. The indoor facility is kept at a comfortable 70 degrees and offers a huge playground, as well as amenities like a heated swimming pool and track for adults to enjoy. Edinborough Park also maintains a healthy calendar of events, with regular live music, movie showings and children’s classes in their spacious amphitheater.
Norway House Gingerbread Wonderland
Gingerbread Wonderland at Norway House dazzles the imaginations of children and adults alike. This one-of-a-kind local attraction enlists the local community to create an entire city of gingerbread featuring familiar buildings and landmarks. You’re invited to take part in the festivities with your own creations, and they offer many different holiday recipes for festive treats. Best of all, admission is free for kids 12 and under.
4 Winter Activities to Enjoy Outside in Bloomington
There’s plenty to enjoy outdoors during Minnesota winters – just bundle up and bring your sense of adventure! Here are four outdoor activities you and your loved ones will enjoy.
Outdoor Ice Skating
Scattered across the city of Bloomington are nine different outdoor ice rinks that can be used for everything from teaching the grandkids how to skate to pick-up hockey games. Even better, they’re completely free and lighted until 10 p.m. For those concerned about the cold, the rinks also offer warming houses where you can relax and recharge after a day on the ice.
Bloomington Winter Fete
A celebration of everything winter, the Bloomington Winter Fete offers engaging activities for all ages. Notable activities include an introduction to ice fishing, a ski jumping competition, a medallion scavenger hunt and a scenic luminary walk around Girard Lake. The local festival takes place January through February, and most activities are completely free.
Hyland Lake Park Reserve
If your grandkids are thrill seekers with an active lifestyle, one of the best sledding hills in Bloomington is found at Hyland Lake Park Reserve. This popular outdoor recreation area even offers sled rentals if you don’t have your own. While you’re there, you can also warm up in the Richardson Nature Center while checking out their resident raptors, reptiles and amphibians.
Holiday Light Tours
When the holiday season comes around, you’ll never be lacking for awe-inspiring light displays near Bloomington. There are numerous parks such as Rice Park and Mears Park that are perfect for an after-dark stroll, as well as local attractions like the Governor’s Residence that are lit up for the occasion. Topping them all is the Glow Holiday Festival featuring over one million lights and a towering ice palace.
More to Explore This Winter at Friendship Village of Bloomington
At Friendship Village of Bloomington, we’re dedicated to helping residents enjoy each day pursuing their passions. We maintain an active calendar of events to meet a wide range of interests, and have thoughtful community amenities like restaurant-style dining venues, a 17,000 square-foot fitness center and indoor golf simulator.
To learn more about our unique senior living community and what makes it so special, please contact us today.
