Minneapolis Parade Ice Garden, a Winter Oasis in the Heart of the City
Minneapolis Parade Ice Garden, a Winter Oasis in the Heart of the City
The Minneapolis Parade Ice Garden is a winter wonderland that offers a unique and unforgettable experience for people of all ages. Located in the heart of downtown Minneapolis, the ice garden is a place where you can skate, sled, and enjoy the beauty of the city during the cold winter months.
**History of the Minneapolis Parade Ice Garden**
The Minneapolis Parade Ice Garden opened in 1914 as a way to provide a safe and fun place for people to skate during the winter. The garden is located on the site of the former Parade Ground, which was used by the Minnesota National Guard for military drills and parades.
Over the years, the ice garden has undergone several renovations and expansions. In 1930, a new warming house was built, and in 1954, the ice surface was enlarged to its current size of 61,000 square feet.
**What to Do at the Minneapolis Parade Ice Garden**
The Minneapolis Parade Ice Garden offers a variety of activities for people of all ages. You can:
* Skate on the 61,000-square-foot ice surface
* Sled down the 200-foot sledding hill
* Enjoy the live music and entertainment
* Warm up in the heated warming house
* Rent skates or sleds
* Take skating lessons
* Participate in special events
**Hours and Admission**
The Minneapolis Parade Ice Garden is open daily from November through March. Admission is free, but there is a small fee for skate and sled rentals.
**Special Events**
The Minneapolis Parade Ice Garden hosts a variety of special events throughout the winter season, including:
* The Winter Carnival Ice Show
* The U.S. Pond Hockey Championships
* The Minneapolis Miracle Mile
* The Great Northern Festival
**Facts and Figures**
* The Minneapolis Parade Ice Garden is the largest outdoor ice rink in the United States.
* The ice surface is 61,000 square feet, which is equivalent to the size of three football fields.
* The ice garden is open daily from November through March.
* Admission is free.
* There is a small fee for skate and sled rentals.
**Stories**
The Minneapolis Parade Ice Garden has been a part of many peoples lives over the years. Here are a few stories:
* One woman remembers going to the ice garden as a child with her family. She would spend hours skating and sledding, and she always looked forward to the Winter Carnival Ice Show.
* A man remembers proposing to his wife at the ice garden. He said it was the perfect place to do it because it was a place that was special to both of them.
* A group of friends remembers going to the ice garden every year for their annual holiday party. They would skate, sled, and sing carols, and they always had a great time.
The Minneapolis Parade Ice Garden is a place where memories are made. It is a place where people can come to have fun, relax, and enjoy the beauty of the city during the winter months.
**Conclusion**
The Minneapolis Parade Ice Garden is a winter oasis in the heart of the city. It is a place where people of all ages can come to have fun, relax, and enjoy the beauty of the city during the cold winter months. Whether you are a local or a visitor, the ice garden is a must-visit destination.
