Grown-ups only! Top 10 activities for adults in Minnesota and western Wisconsin this winter

Winter getting you down? Need some time away from the kids? We’ve got you covered!

It’s time to hire a babysitter, plan a date night or call up your group of friends and enjoy the top 10 activities for adults in Minnesota and western Wisconsin this winter.

1. Enjoy a Winter Igloo Experience

The Winter Igloo Experience allows you to dine outside in the middle of winter without feeling cold. In fact, you’ll even be warm! These igloos, located in Minneapolis’ super-hot North Loop, host up to 8 people. Plan a date night out or a party for a larger group to enjoy the igloo together. Make your reservations now!

Date: Now through January 22nd
Time: Noon – 11 p.m.

2.Visit an outdoor ice bar in Rochester

Free to the public and oh-so-fun, SocialICE returns to Rochester this February. For three days, downtown Rochester morphs into an unrecognizable ice extravaganza, with themed ice bars offering signature drinks and live DJs keeping the vibe piping-hot. Plan an adults-only night you won’t soon forget!

Date: February 6th – 8th
Time: 5 – 9 p.m. on February 6th; 4 – 10 p.m. on February 7th & 8th

3. Try the Dog Sledding Experience

Have you ever been mushing? Try it now at the Dog Sledding Experience. At Points Unknown, a variety of options are available, including a “true north experience, a taste of the north experience and a day in the life of dog sledding experience.” Get ready to challenge yourself… and learn more about how incredible sled dogs really are.

Time:See website for details

4. Ski or snowshoe across Winona

Playing in the snow isn’t just for kids! Not only are outdoor activities great exercise, but they are also wonderful stress relievers. Get in touch with nature as you cross-country ski, snowshoe, or hike through the various trails of Winona.

Time: See website for details

5. Learn to blow glass

Try something new and creative during a snowy day this winter. Gather a few friends and sign up for a glass blowing class in Duluth. All classes are beginner-friendly and include a history of glassmaking, demonstrations and a final product for you to take home.

Time: See website for details

6. Polar Plunge

The Polar Plunge raises funds for the Special Olympics Minnesota every year. Take part in this unique event to help bring opportunity and inclusion to over 8,000 Special Olympics athletes throughout the state. The Polar Plunge will truly show you what winter in the Midwest is all about, and it will pay off when you take your first sip of piping hot coffee afterwards.

Time: See website for details

7. Run S’more 5K

Stay active by running a 5K this winter! The Run S'more 5K in White Bear Lake is great for walkers and runners of all skill levels. Plus, this race begins with a bonfire at the beach and ends with s’mores over a fire pit — perfect!

Date: January 4th
Time: 9 – 10 a.m.

8. Take in pliés and Pink Floyd

Pink Floyd and… classical ballet? That’s the unbelievable event The Twin Cities Ballet of Minnesota is promising at their Rock the Wall performances this February. Don’t miss this incredible event that mixes two very separate forms of artistry.

Date: February 29th – March 1st
Time: TBA

9. Mugs up at Pearl Street Brewery

Located in La Crosse, Wisconsin, Pearl Street Brewery offers a variety of tasting experiences, events and opportunities for adults to socialize — along with great beer, of course. Check their calendar for the most recent Pearl Street Brewery updates. Occasional concerts, tasting experiences and game nights are available.

Time: See website for details

10. Take in a show at Acme Comedy

Prepare to laugh the night away at Acme Comedy in downtown Minneapolis. Whether you attend a single comedian’s show or an open mic night, you’ll find the punchlines are always pitch-perfect. It’s a great place to lift your spirit if (when?) winter is breaking you.

Time: See website for details