Where to Stay Warm in the Winter While Still Getting Out

Despite sometime subzero temperatures, Minnesotans generally don’t enjoy being cooped up all winter long. While a previous post noted some popular indoor options, we wanted to share some suggestions for getting outside while still being able to get a respite from the cold.

If you’re going to be outside to enjoy sledding or ice skating, choose a park or recreational area that has an excellent warming house. WCCO-TV viewers voted the Stone Warming House at the Handke Pit in Elk River as the best warming house in Minnesota. It’s a place on the National Register of Historic Places, was built as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal, and was restored in 2002 with $200,000 raised by the community.

Speaking of places to warm up, Theodore Wirth Regional Park has a chalet building that cross-country skiers and others can enjoy. The chalet features Wirth Café, a bar and grill offering sandwiches, hot dogs, soup, snacks and beverages. In addition, there’s a pro shop with stocking caps and gloves for sale, snow shoe rentals and ski trail passes for purchase. The Wirth Chalet Fireplace Room even can be rented for special events with capacity up to 130 people.

As a final suggestion, visit the North Shore and stay at one of the resorts. You’ll get amazing views of Lake Superior, enjoy scenic country, and will have an easy opportunity to return to the lodge when you get cold. For a quick guide to North Shore resorts, check out ResortsandLodges.com.

What’s your favorite way to get outside in Minnesota in the winter while staying warm?