The Ultimate Guide to Ice Castles

Create a magical experience at the Ice Castles in the Saint Paul area with our guide on the top activities.

Polar bear ice sculpture at Saint Paul Winter Carnival
Plan Your Visit
Things to Do at the Ice Castles
FAQs

Every year, the Saint Paul region features stunning ice spectacles, where unforgettable memories and Instagram-worthy moments await. Whether you’re looking for social media-worthy moments or planning family-friendly activities, the Ice Castles attraction has something for everyone. Icicle-filled archways, tunnels, cliffs, and caverns glow with vibrant lights at night, cultivating a fairytale-like setting. Located at the MN State Fairgrounds, the Ice Castles consist of can’t-miss winter light displays.

For more details about this winter attraction, visit the official website of the Ice Castles.

Plan Your Visit

Dates

January 1 - February 2, 2025

Hours of Operation

  • Monday, Wednesday, & Thursday - 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
  • Friday - 4:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
  • Saturday - 12:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
  • Sunday - 12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
  • Holidays - 12:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Location

MN State Fairgrounds | Hoyt Avenue W, Falcon Heights, MN 55108

Admission

Tickets for the Ice Castles will be available for purchase on November 26, 2024 Check back for more information.

The Best Things to Do at the Ice Castles

Slide and Snow-Tube Through a Winter Wonderland

The Ice Chutes is a thrilling experience and involves descending through a winding polar-like scene. Participants must be at least 36 inches tall to ride the Ice Chutes. As for the younger thrill seekers, the Little Chutes are available for all ages and entail exceptional icy fun.

Marvel & Traverse Through a Grand Labyrinth of Ice

Channel your inner winter archaeologist at the Ice Castles. With more than 20 million pounds of ice, you’ll be transported to a whimsical and arctic-like space. Stroll through the ice caverns and challenge yourself to a frozen maze. Shimmy through narrow crawl tunnels, or take some time to admire and pose by the intricately hand-carved ice sculptures.

Keep an Eye Out for the Snow Queen & Winter Fairy

Calling all fairytale enthusiasts! Meet a regal snow queen and a winter fairy at the Ice Castles. Queen Everlight and Luna Frost will be creating a magical atmosphere for all visitors!

Warm Up at the Polar Pub

Relish winter-inspired alcoholic delights from the Polar Pub. A variety of mouthwatering eats can be found at this arctic bar. From mini doughnuts and pretzel bites to Nathan’s hotdogs and chili, there is no shortage of flavorsome treats at the Ice Castles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the Ice Castles in MN this year?

The Ice Castles in Minnesota will be located at the MN State Fairgrounds, which is located at Hoyt Avenue W, Falcon Heights, MN 55108.

How long does it take to walk through the Ice Castles?

Visitors generally take around 30 minutes to an hour exploring the Ice Castles.

What is appropriate to wear at the Ice Castles?

Since the Ice Castles is an outdoor attraction, we recommend preparing for the chilly weather by dressing in thermals and insulated attire. Don’t forget to bundle up with ear muffs, gloves, scarves, and hats.

When is the best time to go?

The best time to visit the Ice Castles depends on your preference of activities and sights. If you’re seeking to visit during the day, the seafoam blue hues of the ice are accentuated by sunlight. The night, however, unveils an array of colorful LED lights that glimmer across the ice formations.

Is the Ice Castles attraction pet-friendly?

Service animals are the only pets that are permitted on the grounds of the Ice Castles.

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