Getaway and stay in Carver County this Winter

Minnesota’s winter temperatures often turn residents' attention to long for a Florida, Arizona, Mexico and the Caribbean getaway. But there is so much to do and see in Carver County that adding a Winter Staycation to your itinerary before the spring thaw may be the most rewarding experience of all. 
Common winter experiences like ice fishing and ice skating abound, but whether outdoors or indoors, the communities of Carver County are a treasure trove of possibilities to keep anyone interested, regardless of age.

Outdoor Recreation

Snow or no snow, Carver County has terrific ways to enjoy Minnesota winters outdoors! Carver County Regional Parks offers several locations for family fun, no matter the temperature. Baylor Regional Park has plenty to do. Head out on your own or register for special events, like Candlelit Nights at Baylor, where the whole family can hike, cross-country ski or snowshoe along candlelit trails, experience the grandeur of outer space at the Minnesota Astronomical Society and grab a bite to eat. Winter often extends into March in Minnesota, so the Maple Syrup Festival is an excellent way to mark the end - hopefully!

Lake Minnewashta Regional Park has five miles of turf and natural surface trails to escape life’s hustle. If there’s snow, some are groomed for cross-country skiing, while others are reserved for walking. An 18-acre off-leash dog park is a great way to let the family pet burn some pent-up energy!

Lake Waconia Regional Park is a favorite draw for the 80-foot sledding hill or a relaxing stop to take in the remarkable lake vistas of ice and water that Mother Nature can create.

While the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is known by so many for its summer gardens, natural exhibits and photo-worthy trails, its winter beauty is a display not to be missed. Visitors can walk the trails or take the three-mile drive. The Oswald Visitor Center, Snyder Building, Horticultural Center and Bee Pollinator Center are all open with seasonal hours. 

Numerous regional trails allow persons of all ages to immerse themselves in Minnesota's winter while not being too far from favorite spots to warm up! The Dakota Regional Trail crosses the northern edge of Carver County along a former railroad bed. It's a great way to see the Crow River, Lake Waconia, New Germany and Mayer. Frequent connections open up other points of interest in the West Metro. 

The Minnesota River Bluffs Regional Trail is a multi-use corridor near the Minnesota River running from Carver through Chanhassen. Much is paved and plowed by the participating cities, making it perfect for hikers, winter bikers and dog walkers, but snowmobiles are not allowed.

The cities of Carver County all place a high level of significance on walkability, regardless of the season. Find a trail where you live or branch out to any of the wonderful communities. 

Indoor Activities

While the outdoor adventures are both exhilarating and informative, the best part may be the ability to come inside afterward! Carver County knows how to enjoy winter indoors as well!

Winter is a great time to head indoors to experience Carver County's arts and culture, headlined by Paisley Park, the home and studio of iconic artist Prince. Many of the county’s communities have specific historical societies and Historic Places on the National Register that warmly illustrate the region’s heritage. 

Victoria's The Burrow, the Chaska Curling Center, Waconia’s Garage Bar & Bowl and Norwood Young America's Lazy Loon Bowling and Event Center combine unique indoor sports and great food to make it the perfect hang-out for family and friends. 

Several community centers sprinkled throughout the county allow members and visitors to get their exercise and social interaction in their warm confines.

Grab a coffee in Chaska

Nothing goes better with winter recreation than a hot cup of coffee! Jones Coffee opened in Chaska just before Christmas in the building on 2nd St. that previously housed Dunn Bros. The Chaska location is their fourth (Minneapolis and Minnetonka are the others) for this family-owned operation. Follow their introduction to Carver County on Facebook and Instagram.

Carver County’s hospitality will keep you warm this winter

So, while others flock to more southern climes to escape the Minnesota winter, Carver County welcomes you to “escape” to this beautiful area just outside the Twin Cities. Choose Carver County for your winter staycation today!