Super Bowl LII, hosted at Minnesota’s own U.S. Bank Stadium, is just around the corner. Whether you’re a first-time visitor in town for the big game or a lifelong Minnesotan, there is plenty to see and do in the Twin Cities, from great food to family fun and outdoor adventures. Here are ten ways to get the most out of your Twin Cities Super Bowl experience.

 

Nobody celebrates winter like Minnesota! A tradition since 1886, this annual festival is not one to miss, and most events are free and open to the public. With hotdish competitions, stunning ice sculptures and the disk golf ice bowl, there truly is something for everyone to enjoy. Click here to plan your visit.

Explore some of Minnesota’s greatest winter pastimes at the City of Lakes Loppet, including races with dogsleds, ice skates, snowshoes and more. Explore the results of the snow carving competition or go on a self-guided tour complete with ice forests, dancers and bonfires. 

 

Ahead of the Super Bowl comes a week of free daily concerts along Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis. The line-up showcases veterans of the Minnesota music scene, like Soul Asylum, Dessa, and the New Power Generation, as well as emerging artists. 

At ‘Sota Pop, presented by Explore Minnesota, there’s always time for a selfie. Just steps from the Nicollet Mall light rail station, the Instagram-worthy, #OnlyInMN photo-op installations are designed by local artists to show off all the things that make Minnesota great. 

Whether you’re craving Minnesota’s famous Jucy Lucy, a hot bowl of Pho, or a hearty winter ale, Minnesota’s restaurants, breweries, and wineries serve up fare to satisfy every taste. Explore Minnesota’s drinking and eating guide, a curated list of more than 1500 beloved Minnesota restaurants, can help you find your favorite dish, or something brand new to try. 

 

 

This year marks the fifth year of the Night Market, put on by the Saint Paul Farmer’s Market. This year’s market is sponsored by Little Mekong, the city’s Asian business and cultural organization. Market goers can expect a wide array of flavors showcased by local restaurants, food trucks and vendors, as well as local artists and community members.

 

 

It’s Minnesota’s hottest art exhibition—on ice! Find your inner artist among the colorful ice houses on Lake Harriet this winter. The insides are as magical as the brightly painted exteriors, with programs led by artists, scientists and performers. Events are put on all day and are free and open to the public. Plan your visit here. 

 

 

This Saint Paul tradition takes place in Rice Park, next to the historic Landmark Center. Bring your own skates or rent a pair at the rink and test your ice skating skills. The rink is open daily and is also open for youth hockey and broomball. Stay warm with a cup of hot cocoa as you make your way around the rink.

The Twin Cities are home to six state parks as well as many municipal parks that make perfect getaways from the Super Bowl crowds. Brave the tundra-like temperatures for some great views of Minnesota’s water falls, lakes and wildlife areas. Put on your snow boots, snow shoes, or skis and explore the great outdoors.

There’s more to Minnesota than just icy winds and tater tot hot dish. Learn about Minnesota’s rich history at the Minnesota History Center or take a tour of the newly restored Minnesota State Capitol. While you’re in the neighborhood, experience an Omnitheater show (and pick up one of those famous purple hoodies) at the Science Museum of Minnesota.