Winter Activities for Families in the Twin Cities: Libraries, Outdoor Fun, and Cozy Eats

Embracing Winter Activities in the Twin Cities: A Guide for Families

As a family and newborn photographer based in the Minneapolis area, I’ve come to love capturing the magic of winter—from snowball fights in the backyard to cozy moments by the fire. But winter isn’t just about bundling up and staying indoors. The Twin Cities offers an abundance of activities to keep families entertained and making memories, even on the chilliest days. Here are some of our family’s favorite ways to embrace winter in Minneapolis and St. Paul.

Winter activities in the Twin Cities - catching snowflakes on your tongue

 


1. Explore the Twin Cities’ Amazing Libraries and Bookstores

Winter is the perfect season to cozy up with a good book, and the Twin Cities’ libraries and independent bookstores are second to none. Some of our family’s favorites include:

  • Eden Prairie Library: A stunning space with plenty of spots to read and relax. The kids’ area is especially welcoming with stories times. It is my families favorite!!
  • Saint Paul’s George Latimer Central Library: A historic gem with an incredible children’s section and fun storytimes. This is on my list of places to visit this winter as they have Maker, Arts and Culture Events.
  • Washburn Library: Smaller but mighty, this neighborhood library is a hit for quick visits and friendly staff. One of my families talked about how they love visiting this library because they will see lots of friends from school and their neighborhood. It is the place to be on the weekend!!

For local bookstores that cater to kids, check out:

  • Wild Rumpus Books: A magical shop in Linden Hills, complete with animals roaming the store and a fantastic selection of children’s books. This was and still is my favorite bookstore in Minneapolis!!
  • Red Balloon Bookshop: Located in St. Paul, this cozy bookstore hosts storytimes, author events, and has a curated selection perfect for young readers. Have you checked out (@EveryonesLibrarian)? She is my go-to person for book recommendations and you can usually find her talking about amazing events at Red Balloon.
  • Milkweed Books: While smaller, this Minneapolis shop offers a warm and inviting space to find unique titles.

Many libraries and bookstores host winter reading programs and storytime events, offering fun incentives for kids and adults to dive into new stories.


2. Get Outside and Play

Yes, it’s cold, but don’t let that stop you from enjoying Minnesota’s snowy wonderland! Here are some outdoor winter activities that are worth bundling up for:

  • Ice Skating at Centennial Lakes Park: Glide across the scenic frozen ponds, then warm up with a hot cocoa break.
  • Sledding at Theodore Wirth Regional Park: With hills for every skill level, this park is a family favorite for fast-paced fun.
  • City of Lakes Loppet Winter Festival: Celebrate winter with this iconic Minneapolis event! Held at Theodore Wirth Park, the Loppet Winter Festival offers everything from cross-country ski races to snow sculpture contests, fat-tire biking, and a magical Luminary Loppet—an evening of glowing ice lanterns and twinkling trails. It’s a must-experience event for families looking to embrace the snowy season.
  • Frozen Falls – Hidden Falls Regional Park: Bundle up and explore the quiet beauty of places like Hidden Falls, where frozen waterfalls create a magical backdrop.


3. Eat, Bowl, and Relax

After a day of playing in the snow, there’s nothing better than warming up with great food and family fun. Here are some of our favorite spots in the Twin Cities:

  • Town Hall Lanes: Our family’s go-to for bowling and delicious eats. This cozy spot is perfect for celebrating birthdays, gathering with friends, or just enjoying a laid-back evening.
  • Wooden Hill Brewing Company: Located in Edina, this brewery is incredibly family-friendly. With plenty of space to sit, watch sports, play board games, or even take a fun class, it’s a great spot to unwind after a busy day.
  • Cafe Latte: Known for its delicious soups, salads, and desserts, it’s a cozy place to recharge and have the BEST chocolate cake!!
  • The Nook: A neighborhood favorite with amazing burgers and a bowling alley downstairs for added fun.

4. Winter Fun at Home

Of course, sometimes the best winter activities happen right at home. As a photographer, I’ve captured so many beautiful moments of families enjoying:

  • Baking Days: Embrace the chaos and fun of baking with the kids, where flour ends up on the floor, cookie dough mysteriously disappears, and laughter fills the kitchen.
  • Crafting and Games: Perfect for snowy afternoons, break out the board games or get creative with DIY crafts. We are a HUGE Uno household and my youngest got NFL Uno for Christmas…big hit!!
  • Backyard + Neighborhood Rinks: If you’re lucky enough to have a backyard rink or one close by, it’s a magical spot for skating and creating memories. Whether it’s a quiet moment gliding across the ice or a spirited game of hockey, skating rinks offer endless opportunities for candid photo moments—perfect for capturing the joy of winter fun right at home.

  •  Photo Sessions: Yes, winter is a wonderful time for in-home family photo sessions. Think cozy blankets and those sweet, candid moments that make your house a home.

Family skating for family photos in Minnetonka, MN


Winter in the Twin Cities is what you make of it, and with so many options, it’s easy to fill your days with fun, laughter, and connection. Whether you’re exploring new places or staying cozy at home, this season is full of opportunities to create memories—and I’d love to help you capture them.

If you’re ready for a winter photo session, reach out! Let’s document your family’s unique moments in this beautiful, snowy season.

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