Must-visit Ice Castle destinations
One of our family's favorite winter memories is the remarkable trip to Minnesota, where we had the incredible opportunity to see the captivating Ice Castle, a breathtaking display that transforms the landscape into a magical winter wonderland.
Ice Castles are a winter wonder found in five different locations. Each castle showcases stunning archways made of ice crystals, an ice throne, tunnels, and frozen slides!
The Ice Castle was more than a mere ice display; it was an intricate masterpiece featuring a frozen maze that invited exploration at every twist and turn. The ice walls shimmered in shades of blue and white, creating a stunning visual effect that left us in awe. The castle featured archways, tunnels, slides, and ice chandeliers delicately suspended above us, forming frozen waterfalls cascading down the walls.
North America's enchanting ice castles are perfect for unforgettable winter family adventures.
During the day, the ice castles provide a frozen white backdrop for fun photos and exploration. As the sun sets, the castles glow with beautiful LED lighting, offering a dazzling nighttime color show.
As the sun began to set, the Ice Castle transformed once more, illuminated by colorful lights that danced across the ice, creating a magical spectacle.
The caverns and tunnels create a mesmerizing winter wonderland to explore. Kids love crawling through tunnels to discover "ice rooms" with dazzling ice crystal "chandeliers" hanging from above.
My girls especially loved the ice slide. Guests are provided with a mat, and they slide through the frozen tunnel.
Our Tips for a Visit to the Ice Castles:
It will be COLD! Dress in layers. Check out our Guide to Thermal Clothing for Cold Weather Adventures.
We recommend timing it to arrive during the day, 30-60 minutes before sunset so you experience both daytime and nighttime fun.
Take lots of pictures.
Drink hot cocoa and enjoy warm treats (sold on-site).
Watch the Ice Castle Schedule for opening/closing dates and special events and entertainers.
Fast Facts for Visiting Ice Castles:
Ice Castles 2024-25 Locations
Season:
All Ice Castle locations typically open in January, but opening dates vary by location and differ year to year as Ice Castle operations are completely dependent on weather. Once the Castle is nearing completion, they will announce opening dates. Most locations remain open through late February or early March, depending on the weather.
Lodging near Ice Castles:
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This sounds like such a fun place to visit! The idea of wandering through shimmering ice tunnels, sliding down frozen slides, and standing beneath glowing ice chandeliers makes it feel like stepping into a real-life winter fairy tale.
These look so cool! I went to one as a kid in Minnesota - I remember crying when they knocked it down - it was so beautiful!
I’m not sure I have the nerve to be this cold, but I love the idea! www.adventuroustastes.com
Woooah these are incredible! I had no idea the USA had so many options for epic ice castles!
This looks really cool!