Winter in Edina is anything but quiet. The city leans into the season with outdoor skating at Centennial Lakes Park, spectacular holiday shopping at the Galleria and 50th & France, festive dining and cocktail events, and the kind of cozy warmth that makes a Minnesota winter feel like a gift. The Westin Edina Galleria is an especially appealing home base for a winter getaway.
Ice Skating & Winter Outdoors
Centennial Lakes Park becomes a free outdoor skating destination each winter when the lake freezes. The city maintains a groomed skating loop, and skate rentals are typically available on-site.
For indoor recreation, Edinborough Park offers a year-round indoor park with an indoor track, climbing wall, and event space — a favorite escape on the coldest days.
- Centennial Lakes Park — free outdoor skating when conditions allow
- Edinborough Park — indoor park with track and recreation
- Nine Mile Creek Trail — groomed for cross-country skiing in some winters
- Braemar Arena — ice arena with public skating sessions
Holiday Shopping & Events
The Galleria transforms into one of the Twin Cities' premier holiday shopping destinations from November through December. With luxury boutiques, specialty retailers, and an elegant atmosphere, it draws shoppers looking for curated gifts and unique finds beyond the usual mall experience.
50th & France takes on a storybook quality in winter, with decorated storefronts, special shopping events, and the kind of pedestrian-friendly energy that makes holiday browsing genuinely enjoyable. Southdale Center — the nation's first enclosed shopping mall, right in Edina — also anchors major retail during the holiday season.
Winter Dining & Après
Winter is the season for lingering over long dinners and discovering the depth of Edina's restaurant scene. The Westin Edina Galleria's dining options, the Galleria's restaurants, and the neighborhood spots along 50th & France all offer seasonal menus built for cold-weather comfort.
After skating or shopping, the cocktail bars and lounges near the Galleria and 50th & France provide a warm, stylish landing spot. Puttshack at Southdale Center offers a uniquely entertaining après option with tech-driven mini golf and cocktails.
