Bundle up and come see us in Chisago Lakes this winter! Our 3-day winter itinerary for families is your go-to guide to discovering the best things to do with kids in our incredible communities this season. Your cozy family getaway will be packed with snowy adventures and small-town charm.
Glide across ice rinks, explore picturesque trails blanketed in snow, and warm up with hot cocoa after a fun day of snow tubing. From kid-friendly outdoor adventures to local dining, perfect for recharging at the end of the day, Chisago Lakes offers winter activities for the whole family. Indeed, every moment here promises to help you create lasting memories with your kids. Keep reading for the ultimate Chisago Lakes winter guide and plan a trip your family will love!
Day 1 in Chisago Lakes this Winter with Kids
From Chisago City to Taylors Falls, the Chisago Lakes area is an excellent destination for families to explore this winter. With so much to do and see, you’ll need a weekend or more to explore it all. Let’s dive into how to spend your first weekend here. This is day one of our Chisago Lakes winter itinerary for families.
Get Settled in Your Accommodations
Start by settling into your home away from home. Chisago Lakes offers a variety of lodging options to suit every travel style and budget, from cozy cabins and spacious home rentals to classic hotels. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable retreat for your multigenerational family weekend trip or a well-appointed space to accommodate a smaller crew, you’ll find the perfect fit here!
Spend the Afternoon Exploring Franconia Sculpture Park
Franconia Sculpture Park is one of the most unique things to do with kids in Chisago Lakes this winter. This 50-acre outdoor museum in Shafer transforms into a magical winter landscape, with snow-covered sculptures creating a whimsical backdrop for exploration.
The park’s wide, walkable paths allow kids and adults alike to roam freely. Plus, interactive installations add extra excitement! Challenge your family to pick a favorite sculpture or spark creativity by imagining the stories behind each piece. However you choose to explore, this whimsical sculpture park will inspire your kids with its bright colors, massive installations, and seasonal snow drifts! Bundle up, bring hot cocoa, and enjoy an afternoon of outdoor fun surrounded by art. Inside, you’ll find additional displays, bathrooms, and a gift shop.
Franconia Sculpture Park is open year-round and offers free admission (donations are appreciated and encouraged). It is an unforgettable winter adventure for families looking to make the most of Chisago Lakes! Parking is also free and widely available in the on-site lot.
Dinner at the Shafer Saloon
Cap off your first day of this winter itinerary for Chisago Lakes with a cozy family dinner at Shafer Saloon Bar & Grill. Just minutes from Franconia Sculpture Park, this charming spot offers a warm, welcoming vibe perfect for the whole family.
Kids can dig into comfort food from their dedicated menu, featuring classics like juicy burgers and pizza. Meanwhile, parents can savor house specialties like the slow-roasted French dip or hand-stuffed jalapeño poppers. The crackling fireplace adds a cozy touch as you warm up from exploring the sculpture park.
Known for its scratch kitchen and friendly service, Shafer Saloon also offers rotating specials that keep locals and visitors alike coming back for more! They even offer fun weekly events like karaoke and live music. Shafer Saloon is undoubtedly a must-visit dining spot in Chisago Lakes with kids.
Day 2 in Chisago Lakes this Winter with Kids
Day two is all about enjoying winter’s charm like a local. From twirling on the ice and exploring scenic trails to browsing downtown Lindström, your family will adore experiencing the heart of Chisago Lakes together. Read on to uncover all the adventures waiting for your family on day two of this Chisago Lakes winter itinerary!
Breakfast at Northwoods Roasterie in Lindström
Begin day two with a warm coffee and a delightful pastry (or breakfast sandwich!) at Northwoods Roasterie in Lindström. This family-friendly coffee shop is an excellent place to fuel up before exploring some of the best things to do in Chisago Lakes with your kids this winter.
Grab a hearty bagel sandwich or a steaming bowl of oatmeal while sipping freshly roasted coffee or a specialty latte. The menu offers hot chocolate and tea to keep non-coffee drinkers and kids cozy. Various pastries and other sweets are also available to start your day. The inviting cabin-inspired space has plenty of seating for everyone in your group across two floors. Before you leave, take a peek at the roastery to see where the magic begins!
Alternatively, if you want a heartier breakfast option to start your day, try The Swedish Inn in Lindström.
Support Local in Downtown Lindström
For a fun, family-friendly experience in Lindström, don’t miss perusing and shopping downtown’s locally owned shops. Start by strolling past vibrant murals and marveling at the iconic Swedish coffee pot water tower. Then, check out our unique storefronts, boutiques, and antique stores. There are plenty of places to peek into and find the perfect gift or souvenir to bring home.
Lindström Antique Mall has two spacious floors perfect for treasure-hunting vintage finds. The Oven Mitt is a must for kitchen gadgets and gourmet treats. At Glädje, local art and Scandinavian-inspired treasures make for a delightful stop—kids will undoubtedly enjoy their scavenger hunt while you shop. Meanwhile, In the Moment Boutique offers a great selection of stylish gifts, as well as trending outfits and accessories.
Be sure to swing by the Swedish Gift Store for a taste of Sweden. They have everything from home decor and Swedish-made gifts to traditional sweets to try! Or, shop at Farm & Thread for cozy, countryside-inspired fashion and home decor. With so many treasures to find, browsing downtown Lindström with kids makes for an unforgettable morning of supporting local!
Discover more locally-owned businesses by reading The Future is Female: Celebrating 40+ Fantastic Women-Owned Businesses in Chisago Lakes.
Go Ice Skating Together or Try Ice Fishing!
A Chisago Lakes winter itinerary for families wouldn’t be complete without some time on the ice! Whether you’re into ice skating or ice fishing, there’s something for everyone to bundle up for.
Head to Chuckie Lundquist Park (Chisago City) or Shafer Ice Rink (Shafer) for ice skating on a maintained outdoor rink. Both offer a warming house where you can lace your skates. If you prefer wild ice, check out Nordic Harbor in Center City, where the lake is cleared for skating right across from the marketplace.
For the adventurous, ice fishing is a must-do winter activity! Make your way to Frankie’s Live Bait and Marine in Chisago City for expert advice on where to find the best fishing spots. The team at Frankie’s knows the local lakes like no one else, giving you insider intel on what’s biting. Whether you’re skating with the family or casting a line, these winter activities in Chisago Lakes offer plenty of fun for everyone!
Learn more about ice fishing from a local by reading Chisago Lakes Early-Ice Panfish and Walleyes.
Lunch at Wagon Wheel Cafe & Pizza
Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s time for lunch! For a cozy and family-friendly stop during your Chisago Lakes winter activities, swing by Wagon Wheel Cafe & Pizza (Chisago City). Family-owned since 1995, this spot serves up hearty meals made from scratch, with recipes passed down for generations. Whether you’re craving a classic breakfast, a savory pizza, or a delicious burger, Wagon Wheel has you covered.
Their meat-lovers pizza is a crowd favorite, topped with fresh ingredients and a yummy sauce. The grilled chicken salad is another popular pick, packed with flavor and plenty of cheese. The warm, welcoming atmosphere is perfect for refueling after ice skating or ice fishing, and their daily specials offer a little something extra for everyone. Plus, they have an all-day breakfast! It’s a great spot to add to your Chisago Lakes winter itinerary for families looking for tasty, home-cooked comfort food!
Go for a Winter Hike at Allemansrätt Park
If you’re looking for fun outdoor things to do in Chisago Lakes during your winter visit with kids, a snowy hike at Allemansrätt Park is a fantastic addition! This charming park in Lindström offers easy, family-friendly trails that wind through towering trees, glacial eskers, and serene wetlands. With convenient parking and portable restrooms available on-site, it’s a beautiful outdoor spot to enjoy in winter!
The 1.3-mile loop is particularly great for kids, featuring packed dirt, gravel, and boardwalk paths (which will likely be snow-packed, too). Plus, there are stunning views of the frozen lakes at every turn. As you hike, watch for local wildlife—squirrels and birds are especially active on sunny days.
End Your Night with Dinner at The Stone Inn
After a day of winter activities in Chisago Lakes, end your night with a delicious dinner at The Stone Inn. This lively bar and grill in Chisago City is perfect for relaxing and debriefing the day together.
The menu features local ingredients and seasonal dishes, with something for everyone—from mouthwatering burgers and broasted chicken to fresh fish. The kids’ menu ensures even the pickiest eaters will find something they love. And don’t forget to save room for dessert! Whether you’re winding down after a day of winter fun or just looking to enjoy a great meal together, The Stone Inn is the perfect spot to end day two.
Day 3 in Chisago Lakes this Winter with Kids
Before heading home, day three of this Chisago Lakes winter itinerary starts with breakfast at a local gem and ends with a thrilling day racing down the slopes!
Brunch at Gustaf’s On Main Eatery
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Gustaf’s On Main Eatery in Lindström. This enchanting eatery is located in the historic Gustaf Anderson House and offers a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere.
The menu features Scandinavian-inspired dishes (like Swedish pancakes!), alongside breakfast favorites and seasonal menu items made with fresh, local ingredients. There’s even a kids’ menu to keep little ones happy. Gustaf’s is the perfect place to enjoy a taste of our Swedish history and heritage!
Pro tip: Check out Gustaf’s Tea Parties—there may be one happening during your visit!
Go Snow Tubing or Skiing at Wild Mountain
Add some excitement to the final stretch of your family’s winter itinerary to Chisago Lakes by heading over to Wild Mountain in Taylors Falls for snow tubing, snowboarding, or downhill skiing! These thrilling activities offer the perfect way to enjoy fresh air and time in the snow together.
Tubing sessions are two hours long with set start and end times, so be sure to purchase tickets in advance to guarantee your spot. The capacity limits on each session mean walk-in tickets may not always be available. For an extra magical experience, try the Starlight tubing sessions at dusk on Friday and Saturday nights, plus holidays, where the glowing lights add an extra layer of fun. With easy access via a conveyor belt, this park provides a no-hassle, high-energy experience. Plus, it’s the largest snow tubing park in the region!
If you prefer to hit the slopes on skis or a snowboard, Wild Mountain offers 26 runs across 100 acres. There are runs for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced skiers. The scenic views of the St. Croix River Valley make it even more special. Wild Mountain offers lessons for ages 4+ and equipment rentals, ensuring everyone can confidently hit the slopes.
Finally, if you’re there on a Sunday, you can enjoy free s’ mores from 12 to 4 p.m.—perfect for warming up with a tasty treat after an exciting run down the hill.
A Few More Fun Winter Things to Do in Chisago Lakes with Kids
If you have extra room in your itinerary or want to make swaps, you may be looking for a few more kid-friendly winter things to do in Chisago Lakes. Consider adding one of the following fun ideas for families with kids to your Chisago Lakes winter itinerary:
- Enjoy a wintery ice cream flavor at Anderson’s Ice Cream Shoppe in Lindström.
- Wild River State Park offers 30+ miles of trails near Almelund for hiking, skate-skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
- Interstate State Park offers the area’s stunning glacial potholes, scenic river views, and several miles of hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing trails.
- Hiking and snowshoeing can also be done on the Swedish Immigrant Regional Trail.
- In Chisago City, Vilhelm Moberg Park is an excellent stop with toddlers and young kids. There is a small playground and ample space to run around—even in the snow!
- Beach Park in Lindström is another excellent spot for enjoying some playground time and free play in the snow.
- Snowmobile trails can also be found throughout the area.
Don’t Forget to Check Out Our Seasonal Activities
While planning a winter weekend itinerary for Chisago Lakes for your family, don’t forget to check our Calendar of Events! We have exciting events happening throughout the season that will appeal to you and your kids, like the Celebration of the Lakes in February, December’s incredible selection of holiday events, and more! Check the calendar to add any of the fun events or festivals happening during your visit to your itinerary.
Enjoy a Magical Winter Weekend in Chisago Lakes with Your Family!
Chisago Lakes is a thrilling winter playground for families, with endless activities to keep everyone entertained. From thrilling adventures like snow tubing and peaceful hikes to strolling downtown Lindström with kids, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do together in Chisago Lakes this winter. Indeed, Chisago Lakes offers unforgettable winter experiences that will leave your family eager to return again and again!
