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7 Fun Ideas to Spice Up Your College Winter Break in the Midwest

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UW Stout chapter.

 

Winter break is fast approaching if not already here. Some have plans to fly to warm destinations, others have countless holiday parties to attend, and then there are those left twiddling their thumbs at home. Don’t be that person. Here are some awesome, adventurous ideas to get you out there and exploring all that the Midwest has to offer.

1. Minnesota Wild Hockey Game

For all you hockey lovers out there, I suggest saving up some money this winter break to get tickets to a Minnesota Wild Hockey game. The experience is unforgettable and has such an incredible energy that fills the arena. Despite the chilly ice, you’ll be boiling with excitement to watch these players go! Xcel Energy Center, located in Saint Paul, Minnesota, offers drinks and food, gift shops, and much more to further your experience watching the Minnesota Wild. https://www.nhl.com/wild has all your information about the Minnesota Wild.

Tip: Check out places like SeatGeek, Ticketmaster, StubHub and much more for great deals and more on tickets.

2. Concerts

Come on, doesn’t this look awesome?

No matter what music you enjoy, this winter break get out to go see your favorite bands and artists live! Bring along some friends and don’t forget to keep your cameras/phones charged! Check out this listing from MinneapolisConcerts for performances in Minnesota. 

No matter your music tastes, Vividseats lets you know all the upcoming concerts in Wisconsin.

Tip: Check out places like SeatGeek, Ticketmaster, StubHub and much more for great deals and more on tickets.

3. Lutsen Resort

Though there are many amazing ski/snowboarding resorts, Lutsen is a definite, must visit! Lutsen Resort offers extraordinary lodging, townhomes, condos, sea villas, and even log cabins for you to rent that will be sure to give you goosebumps (and not from the cold!). Lutsen has one of the largest cross-country ski trail networks in North America with over 450 miles of snowmobile trails, the largest alpine skiing and snowboarding park in the Midwest and countless other activities. Get your toes in some snowshoes complimentary of Lutsen or nestle in by their cozy lodge fireplace. Lutsen isn’t your average resort extending services such as campfires, live music, shuttling services, swimming pools, and even a spa. If you’re looking to really get outside in the snow I highly suggest taking a trip in the gondola overlooking the mountains and water. There’s ice fishing, shopping, and even sled dog rides if you’re looking for something a little change of pace. No matter if you’re looking for a nice, relaxing weekend or to shred the hills on snowboards, Lutsen is an absolutely incredible place to visit for everyone. For more information on booking your trip, visit their website.

4.Wisconsin Dells

Not much of a freezing cold, snow falling from the sky kind of person? Good thing there’s a place where the water is warm and it’ll feel just like summer again over at Wisconsin Dells. Although Wisconsin Dells well-known for its largest indoor water parks in America, they also offer meeting and convention facilities. Wisconsin Dells even offers family entertainment centers, luxury spas, adventurous restaurants. They pride themselves on delivering beyond expectations and honestly, you can see for yourself that they really do. Kalahari is one of it’s greatest parks for its African theme, but don’t take my word for it, go see for yourself this winter break. Book your stay at ww.kalahariresorts.com/wisconsin.

5. Mall of America

If you need a one-stop place to go get all the gifts you’re looking for this Christmas, this is it. It holds more than 520 stores and other attractions including an indoor theme park so there is something for everyone. Even if you’re finished with your holiday shopping, it never hurts to go find a little something to treat yourself. If nothing else, grab a couple friends or family to do some fun window shopping because you honestly never know what you’re going to find and I guarantee you’ll have a great time! Visit Mall of America for questions and directions to the location.

6.Bentleyville “Tour of Lights”

I’ve personally seen these myself and this place is absolutely stunning and one hundred percent worth seeing. If seeing all the gorgeous Christmas lights doesn’t get you in the Christmas mood, I don’t think anything will. Of course, not only do they have the beautiful lights but also offer warm drinks and snacks as you walk through. They also have an ice skating rink and a gift shop to purchase souvenirs and Christmas/holiday knickknacks. Check out their website at http://www.bentleyvilleusa.org/.

7. Fireworks in Chicago

If you’re looking to really spice up your winter break, try taking a trip to Chicago for New Years where they host a huge festival featuring carnival rides, slides, climbing wall, and even an indoor Ferris wheel and ice-skating rink (great for those who don’t love the cold). Chicago also hosts a grand firework display at midnight to ring in the new year. Chicago is a large city with lots of fun activities as well such as tours and even Broadway shows. You certainly won’t be bored there! Click this link for more information about the event.

Don’t let the snow stop you from enjoying all these fun activities this winter break. After all, you’re not getting any younger so get out there and surround yourself with loved ones and good times this holiday season.  

Hello! My name is Elizabeth Jacobson, but most people call me Liz for short. I am a sophomore this year at UW-Stout to get my Bachelors degree in Business Administration. I plan to have an emphasis in entrepreneurship so that after college I can pursue my dreams of owning my own store. I have a passion for writing. I love new ideas, meeting new people, and exploring different things in life. 
Her Campus at UW-Stout