6 Things You Should Know Before Visiting the Ice Castles with Littles

The Ice Castles are a winter wonderland, especially for kids! But before you bundle up the little ones and brave the cold, here are six things you should know to make your visit extra special:

1. Weekdays are your friend

While the Ice Castles are always a popular attraction, try to visit on a weekday if possible. You’ll still encounter crowds, but it’ll be a bit calmer than the weekend rush.

2. Time it right for the full experience

To truly appreciate the magic of the Ice Castles, book your tickets for about an hour to an hour and a half before sunset. This way, you’ll get to witness their majestic presence in the daylight and be captivated as they illuminate the night sky with a breathtaking display of lights.

3. Dress for the Arctic (but make it fun!)

Forget “fashionably cool” – function over fashion is the name of the game here! Never in my life did I think I’d own snow pants, let alone four pairs (thanks, Amazon Prime!). But hey, when your little one wants to play in the snow, you do what you gotta do! I have to admit, rocking this all-pink snowsuit ended up being way more fun than I expected. Turns out, embracing the silliness is way cooler than trying to be cool anyway.

4. Little legs getting tired? Bring a sled!

If you’ve got toddlers who aren’t quite steady on their feet, a sled is your best friend at the Ice Castles! While Aurora wasn’t thrilled about being stuck while we explored (she’s all about keeping up with big sis!), it was the perfect way to keep her comfy and warm while navigating the icy terrain. Since carriages aren’t allowed inside, a sled is the next best thing for little ones who aren’t quite ready to trek through the snow and ice.

5. Say Cheese! Don’t Skip the Pro Photo

Okay, fellow photo enthusiasts, I get it! As someone who loves taking pictures, paying for a professional photo can feel a little… ouch. But trust me, it’s worth it at the Ice Castles! With little ones in tow, getting that perfect shot of the whole family with the stunning ice formations as a backdrop is nearly impossible on your own. The event photographer knows all the best angles and lighting, and they’ll capture a magical memory you’ll cherish forever.