If you’re searching for a fun holiday escape filled with festive fun, cozy comforts and exciting activities for the whole family—give Woodbury, Minnesota a try! Woodbury combines suburban comfort with the perks of urban convenience, making it an ideal home base for winter adventures. Located just minutes from both downtown Minneapolis and Saint Paul, Woodbury puts you close to everything while giving you space to relax, explore and indulge this winter break.
Where to Stay
Photo by Destination: Woodbury
Whether you’re planning a family trip, a romantic winter weekend or a friends’ getaway, Woodbury has nine hotels to suit every style and budget. From full-service properties to extended-stay suites, you’ll enjoy:
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Easy access right off I-94
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Free parking at every hotel
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Proximity to shopping, dining and activities
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Metro micro service and Gold Line transportation stations nearby
What to Do in Woodbury This Holiday Season
1. Destination Shopping at Woodbury Lakes
Location: Woodbury Lakes, 9120 Hudson Road, Woodbury
Stroll through this open-air shopping center adorned with holiday lights and décor. Pick up gifts from popular name brands, warm drinks and maybe something special for yourself.
2. Ice Skating at M Health Fairview Sports Center
Location: M Health Fairview Sports Center, 4125 Radio Drive, Woodbury
Photo Credit: Woodbury Parks & Recreation
Glide into the season with a festive skate session—perfect for families, couples, and anyone ready to embrace winter fun. Open now!
3. Warm up at Woodbury Central Park
Location: Woodbury Central Park, 8595 Central Park Place, Woodbury
Photo by Destination: Woodbury
Woodbury Central Park lets you enjoy greenery year-round. Grab a book and sip a warm drink inside the park or catch a live performance in the indoor amphitheater.
4. Let the Kids Play at Lookout Ridge
Location: Lookout Ridge, 8595 Central Park Place, Woodbury
Located within Woodbury Central Park, the kiddos will love this indoor playground for climbing, sliding and exploring.
5. Enjoy a Holiday Performance from Merrill Arts Center
Location: The Loft Stage at East Ridge, 4200 Pioneer Drive, Woodbury
Photo by Destination: Woodbury
Get into the spirit with Madeline’s Christmas, a seasonal classic for the whole family produced by the Merrill Arts Center (MAC), taking place at The Loft Stage at East Ridge. December 13 and 14. Purchase show tickets (link) on the MAC's website.
6. Visit Santa at Bridgeman’s Ice Cream
Location: Bridgeman's Ice Cream, 2110 Eagle Creek Ln #200, Woodbury
On December 13, take the kids (or the kid in you) for a sweet treat and a magical visit with Santa himself.
7. Experience a Holiday Movie Night
Location: Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, 9060 Hudson Road, Woodbury (photo)
Location: Woodbury 10 Theatre, 1470 Queens Drive, Woodbury
Photo by Destination: Woodbury
Head to Alamo Drafthouse Cinema or Woodbury 10 Theatre to catch a festive flick with oversized popcorn and a cozy theater seat—because nothing says “holiday season” like movie magic especially with both theaters featuring all-time holiday favorites.
8. Savor Holiday-Themed Food & Drink
Location: Northern Taphouse, 7325 Currell Blvd, Woodbury, MN 55125
Location: Southern Social, 1424 Weir Drive, Woodbury
Location: Tamarack Tap Room, 8418 Tamarack Village, Woodbury
Local restaurants are serving up seasonal specialties—from spiced cocktails to festive entrées like Northern Taphouse, Southern Social and Tamarack Tap Room and more! Treat yourself!
9. Create Your Own DIY Holiday Art
Location: Board & Brush, 2230 Eagle Creek Lane Suite F, Woodbury
Channel your creativity with wood projects at and painting experiences at Board & Brush—perfect for making handmade gifts or family keepsakes.
10. Play at X-Golf & Topgolf
Location: Topgolf Woodbury, 560 Bielenberg Drive, Woodbury (photo)
Location: X-Golf Woodbury, 8150 Coller Way #500, Woodbury
Photo by Destination: Woodbury
For sporty travelers, Woodbury delivers. Tee off at X-Golf’s virtual simulators or challenge friends to a game at Topgolf, both offering fun all winter long.
Winter Favorites Just Minutes from Woodbury
12. Ski or Snowboard at Afton Alps
Location: 6600 Peller Avenue South, Hastings
Only a short drive away, this popular ski resort offers rolling slopes, scenic views and plenty of winter thrills—right next to Afton State Park. Now open!
13. Explore the St. Paul European Christmas Market
Location: 240 East Boulevard, Saint Paul
Photo Credit: Eric Satre
Take in festive shopping, artisan gifts, live music and traditional European foods. Pair it with the GLOW Holiday Festival for an unforgettable evening of lights and seasonal cheer. Open now until December 21.
14. Snow Tubing in Lake Elmo
Location: 8989 55th Street North, Lake Elmo
Grab your friends and family for a fun-filled adventure at the Green Acres Recreation - Snow Tubing hill in Lake Elmo. Book your visit ahead of time to ensure availability. Opens December 19.
15. IIHF World Juniors Hockey
Location: Grand Casino Arena, 199 W Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul
Photo Credit: Eric Satre
The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) World Juniors Hockey is coming to Grand Casino Arena in Saint Paul. Experience this 50th World Juniors hockey tournament in the State of Hockey! December 26, 2025-Junuary 5, 2026
Make this holiday season a memorable one! Interested in more seasonal favorites, announcements and insider news from Destination: Woodbury? Sign-up for our e-newsletter launching in January, 2026!
