Believe it or not, winter is the second-best season to visit the Willmar Lakes Area—and once you experience it, you just might agree. When the lakes freeze, the trails sparkle, and the calendar fills with seasonal events, the area transforms into a winter wonderland full of outdoor adventures and cozy indoor experiences. Whether you love snowy recreation or prefer staying warm inside, here are 10 things to do in the Willmar Lakes Area this winter.

Outdoor Winter Adventures

1. Attend Spicer WinterFest

Spicer WinterFest is a highlight of the season and a favorite tradition in the Willmar Lakes Area. This multi-day celebration features a variety of winter fun, including outdoor games, family-friendly activities, community gatherings, and seasonal entertainment. From snow-filled adventures to festive social events, Spicer WinterFest is a great way to fully embrace winter. Plan your visit around WinterFest and make a weekend of it!

2. Explore the Trails

Winter reveals a quieter, more peaceful side of the Willmar Lakes Area’s trail system. The Glacial Lakes State Trail and Robbins Island Regional Park offer scenic beauty perfect for winter hiking and fat-tire biking. You’ll also find cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails at Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center and Sibley State Park. In addition to walking and skiing options, winter brings access to many miles of snowmobile trails throughout the Willmar Lakes Area, connecting communities and offering wide-open rides through beautiful countryside.

3. Explore Sibley State Park in Winter

Sibley State Park is breathtaking year-round, but winter adds a special magic. Snow-covered landscapes, frozen lakes, and peaceful trails make it a must-visit winter destination. Visitors can rent snowshoes during the winter months, enjoy a popular sledding hill, warm up inside the warming center, and explore the newly renovated Interpretive Center for an educational and interactive indoor experience.

4. Try a New Outdoor Activity

Winter is the perfect time to try something new outdoors. Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and winter hiking are popular options, but you can also experience kicksledding at Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center, a fun and unique way to explore snowy trails. Rentals for many winter activities are available at Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center and Sibley State Park, making it easy to enjoy these activities even if you don’t have your own gear.

5. Get Out on the Ice

Winter wouldn’t be complete without time spent on the ice. When conditions are right, enjoy ice fishing on local lakes, lace up your skates for ice skating or hockey, or watch exciting snowmobile races. Many communities maintain outdoor rinks, creating classic winter fun for all ages. New this season, the covered Outdoor Rink near the Willmar Civic Center offers a sheltered spot for skating and hockey, making it easier to enjoy the ice even in chilly or snowy weather. Whether you’re practicing your slapshot, teaching the kids to skate, or just gliding for fun, this rink is a fantastic addition to the area’s winter offerings.

Warm Up & Wind Down

6. Plan a Cozy Winter Getaway

After a full day of winter adventure, having a warm, welcoming place to stay makes all the difference. Book a stay at one of the Willmar Lakes Area’s cozy hotels and lodging options and enjoy being close to trails, dining, and events. Traveling with kids? Country Inn & Suites is a perfect family-friendly option, featuring a fun indoor waterslide that makes winter trips extra memorable. Many hotels offer winter weekend rates—perfect for a spontaneous getaway.

7. Shop ’Til You Drop

When the temperatures drop, shopping local is a great way to stay warm while discovering one-of-a-kind finds. The Willmar Lakes Area is home to a variety of unique boutiques and specialty shops, from gifts and home décor to sweet treats and trendy clothing. Popular stops include Lucky Duck, known for nostalgic toys, puzzles, candy, unique sodas, and homemade popcorn, and B’s Chocolates, famous for handcrafted Belgian chocolates perfect for indulgence or gifting.

8. Taste Something New

Warm up this winter by exploring the diverse dining scene in the Willmar Lakes Area. From cozy cafés to comfort food and bold international flavors, there’s no shortage of options. Downtown Willmar is especially known for its global cuisine, offering delicious winter dining adventures for the whole family.

Indoor Fun for Cold Days

9. Take In a Show or Performance

Winter is the perfect season for live entertainment in the Willmar Lakes Area. Enjoy community theatre productions at The Barn Theatre, attend unique events and performances hosted at Little Theatre Auditorium, or catch a show at the New London-Spicer Performing Arts Center or the Willmar Education Arts Center. There’s always something happening to add culture and creativity to a winter evening. Check the Events Calendar to see what’s happening when you visit.

10. Get Active Indoors

Cold weather doesn’t mean slowing down. The Willmar Lakes Area offers plenty of fun indoor activities to keep everyone moving. Try axe throwing at Rendezvous Axe Throwing, practice your swing or batting skills at Willmar Indoor Golf, enjoy classic family fun with bowling at Alley on Ash, or sharpen your skills at the Little Crow Archery indoor range. Several fitness centers are also available for those looking to maintain their winter workout routine.

Experience Winter in the Willmar Lakes Area

From snowy trails and Spicer WinterFest celebrations to cozy hotels, live entertainment, shopping, dining, and unforgettable ice activities, winter in the Willmar Lakes Area is full of possibilities. Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a weekend escape, or a day trip, this season offers countless ways to make lasting memories. Bundle up and discover why winter is one of the best times to explore the Willmar Lakes Area. Start planning your winter adventure at willmarlakesarea.com.