The best deals on hotels near Vets Memorial ICE Arena in Inver Grove Heights, MN.
Access unmatched hotel rates and frequent flash deals on rooms.
Save up to 70% when booking as a group. Select 9+ rooms to get started.
Top 24 Hotels Near Vets Memorial ICE Arena
8055 Barbara Ave Inver Grove Heights, MN 55077
AmericInn by Wyndham Inver Grove Heights Minneapolis
Within Inver Grove Heights, AmericInn by Wyndham Inver Grove Heights Minneapolis is a short drive from Vets Memorial ICE Arena, a detail that delivers a simple way to get around.
Wyndham’s grab-and-go lobby markets keep snacks and essentials at hand, letting late arrivals settle in without an extra errand. Every guest room provides a single-serve coffee maker, ample outlets, and climate control, letting guests recharge with comfort. Bar and lounge spaces present casual seating, cocktail service, and light plates, allowing companions to relax while others finish arrival tasks.
Mobile app booking, loyalty perks, Wi-Fi, flexible meeting rooms, on-site restaurants, and pool towel service streamline workdays and weekend plans.
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Inver Grove Heights / Minneap
In Inver Grove Heights, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Inver Grove Heights / Minneap has a quick-travel location relative to Vets Memorial ICE Arena, letting guests easily transition from their room to the event.
With clear exterior signage and marked entrances, Microtel orients drivers quickly on arrival, minimizing loops around the lot after a long drive. Guest rooms position the window seat beside task lighting and outlets, forming a handy nook for reading or quick laptop time when needed. Fitness rooms cap sessions with wipe dispensers and fresh towels, maintaining a clean rhythm that supports consistency across trips nightly.
With Wi-Fi, breakfast, guest laundry, and pet-friendly rooms at select sites, road trips remain predictable and low-stress overall.
Holiday Inn Express St. Paul S - Inver Grove Hgts by IHG
When the day's schedule in Inver Grove Heights is packed, Holiday Inn Express St. Paul S - Inver Grove Hgts by IHG's location an easy drive from Vets Memorial ICE Arena is a major benefit.
Pantry markets in Holiday Inn Express properties provide snacks, drinks, and travel items, ensuring convenience immediately upon arrival. Guest rooms provide flat-screen HDTVs, bedside USB ports, and ergonomic chairs, blending comfort with functional convenience. Lobby areas with communal chairs, charging hubs, and open layouts encourage social interaction and serve as orientation points.
Complimentary breakfast, fitness rooms, and Wi-Fi pair with indoor pools and parking, balancing relaxation with convenience.
Coratel Inn and Suites by Jasper Saint Paul Minneapolis Inver Grove Heights.
The hotel's location is on a direct route to Vets Memorial ICE Arena, which is an easy drive away, allowing for a stress-free journey.
At Coratel Inn and Suites by Jasper Saint Paul Minneapolis Inver Grove Heights., arrivals may highlight a no-frills reception, vending access, and convenient parking for everyday guest routines. Accommodations may include rainfall showers, hardwood floors, and compact layouts, reinforcing both practicality and simple comfort. Shared spaces may present coin-operated laundries, vending machines, and modest lobbies that ensure practical routines for guests.
A visit may highlight Wi-Fi, vending machines, laundry access, and compact breakfast service, helping create consistent guest balance.
Omni Viking Lakes Hotel
For a trip to Inver Grove Heights, Omni Viking Lakes Hotel's location a direct run from Vets Memorial ICE Arena is an essential piece of its appeal.
Omni places grab-and-go cases and snack racks near reception, so water and bites are secured quickly before routes continue upstairs. Guest rooms, with plush mattresses, crisp linens, and quiet climate control, promote restorative sleep so travel days reset cleanly overnight. Meeting floors connect salons, foyers, and prefunction space, smoothing guest flow for conferences, celebrations, and briefings alike.
From valet service and EV charging to Wi-Fi, breakfast cafés, and dry cleaning, daily needs knit together into one dependable framework.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Eagan, MN
For guests in Inver Grove Heights, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Eagan, MN keeps Vets Memorial ICE Arena within easy reach, a location that supports a variety of travel plans.
Upon arrival, Radisson positions communal tables and outlet-rich tall counters near check-in so you can charge devices and regroup quickly. Standard guest rooms offer a stable desk, task lighting, and multiple outlets, making it simple to run calls or finish work without leaving the room. Poolside seating areas provide loungers, umbrellas, and side tables, helping guests relax between activities and keep daily plans on track.
With grab-and-go cases, free internet, fitness access, meetings, EV charging, and laundry, routines stay efficient for busy travel days.
enVision Hotel St. Paul South
For a trip to Inver Grove Heights, enVision Hotel St. Paul South's location a simple cross-town drive from Vets Memorial ICE Arena is an essential part of its convenience.
Guests at enVision Hotel St. Paul South may encounter artisanal touches, boutique furnishings, and complimentary refreshments for a curated arrival. Rooms may showcase refined interiors, curated minibars, and plush bedding that emphasize boutique hospitality and stylish comfort. Shared spaces typically provide intimate lounges, locally inspired dining, and curated cafés that reflect boutique-style orientation.
Accommodations may provide complimentary Wi-Fi, local breakfast, laundry support, and bike rentals, combining creativity with convenience.
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Eagan / St. Paul
Upon leaving Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Eagan / St. Paul, Vets Memorial ICE Arena is a direct run with an easy commute, simplifying your visit from the start.
Microtel uses straightforward ID-to-key steps at the counter, reducing delays so guests transition to rooms without confusion at busy times. Every guest room centers an HDTV at eye level with a friendly remote, keeping entertainment straightforward at the end of busy days. Fitness centers pair treadmills, ellipticals, and free weights with towel and water stations, preserving workout habits on tight travel days.
With free Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, and a fitness room where offered, plus guest laundry, routines stay balanced from morning to night.
Extended Stay America Suites Minneapolis Airport Eagan North
The uncomplicated drive from Extended Stay America Suites Minneapolis Airport Eagan North to Vets Memorial ICE Arena in Inver Grove Heights ensures guests can enjoy local convenience before the hotel experience.
The helpful staff at Extended Stay America are a key part of the arrival, ready to assist with any questions about a long-term stay. The in-room kitchen, complete with a stovetop and large fridge, gives hotel guests total control over their dining options and schedules. The 24/7 laundry facilities are essential for guests in temporary housing, offering a reliable and accessible way to manage daily life.
With on-site laundry, a fitness center, a full kitchen, and a pet-friendly policy, guests can truly settle in and feel at home.
Hampton Inn by Hilton Minneapolis / Eagan
For travelers who appreciate a direct route, Hampton Inn by Hilton Minneapolis / Eagan is a direct run from Vets Memorial ICE Arena, making for a low-stress trip.
Weekday On the Run breakfast bags at Hampton Inn add grab-and-go convenience, simplifying mornings for travelers with early departures. Suites contain microwaves, Keurig machines, and refrigerators, allowing guests convenient access to snacks, drinks, and light meals. Fitness studios with rowing machines, free weights, and cardio options let travelers maintain routines, sustaining energy through trips.
Pet services, hot breakfast, business centers, indoor pools, and complimentary internet ensure balance across both work and leisure travel.
Extended Stay America Suites Minneapolis Airport Eagan South
For guests in Inver Grove Heights, Extended Stay America Suites Minneapolis Airport Eagan South keeps Vets Memorial ICE Arena a simple cross-town drive, a position that makes for a hassle-free start to the day.
For a simple morning start, the grab-and-go breakfast at Extended Stay America offers coffee and a breakfast bar for ultimate convenience. Every guest room is designed with plenty of open floor space, allowing for an uncluttered and more comfortable long-term hotel experience. Parking lots are designed to be safe and accessible, giving guests the confidence of a secure spot for their personal or work vehicle.
The hotel provides a fantastic value with a free breakfast, a fitness center, a swimming pool, a pet-friendly policy, and a full kitchen.
TownePlace Suites Marriott Minneapolis St. Paul AirportEagan
This flexible location means Vets Memorial ICE Arena is an easy drive from TownePlace Suites Marriott Minneapolis St. Paul AirportEagan, letting guests travel with ease.
TownePlace Suites reinforces arrival consistency with breakfast, pantry, and signage alignment, giving guests seamless clarity at check-in. Suites offer full kitchen combo, smart TVs, and ample storage, enabling guests to cook, relax, and stay organized without friction. Laundry facility includes hanging hooks and table outlets, helping travelers maintain appearance and planning amid extended stays.
Meeting space, on-site laundry, and lobby coffee combine workflow, convenience, and refreshment to help stays feel seamless and well-supported.
SpringHill Suites Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport / Eagan
The journey from SpringHill Suites Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport / Eagan to Vets Memorial ICE Arena is a simple drive, a benefit that adds flexibility to any driving itinerary.
SpringHill Suites highlights separate relax-and-work zones brand-wide, creating an arrival message of space that supports varied routines. Each guest room highlights a west elm sofa, flat-screen TV with streaming, and reliable Wi-Fi, letting guests relax with comfort and connectivity. The breakfast area features cereals, waffles, and fruit alongside juice, ensuring dependable options for travelers beginning their day refreshed.
Amenities such as a 24/7 Market, indoor pool, breakfast service, and self-parking give families and professionals balanced daily convenience.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Eagan - Minneapolis Area by IHG
In Inver Grove Heights, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Eagan - Minneapolis Area by IHG's accessible location keeps Vets Memorial ICE Arena a direct run, letting guests travel with ease.
Bright décor and open layouts at Holiday Inn Express create a welcoming tone, softening the move from transit to the beginning of a stay. Each guest room contains branded bath products, glass showers, and linens, refreshing daily routines with consistent reliability. Business centers with shared terminals, printers, and Wi-Fi give guests convenient access to productivity tools when needed.
Business centers, Wi-Fi, and pet policies combine with breakfast and laundry, supporting productivity and family comfort together.
Comfort Inn Eagan Minneapolis - St. Paul South
Because Comfort Inn Eagan Minneapolis - St. Paul South keeps Vets Memorial ICE Arena a simple drive, guests can appreciate a moment of quiet before their event.
When arriving at Comfort Inn, reception sits near refreshment points so guests can grab coffee and settle while formalities are handled. Every guest room provides a mini-fridge, microwave, and single-serve coffee maker so quick breakfasts and snacks happen without extra trips. Fitness centers combine cardio machines and weights with fresh towels and water stations, supporting routine maintenance before or after days out.
From pools and fitness rooms to meeting suites and reliable Wi-Fi, guests find on-property options that reduce off-site detours.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport
From Fairfield Inn & Suites Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport, Vets Memorial ICE Arena is an uncomplicated drive, a choice that gives guests more command over their travel.
At check-in, Fairfield Inn staff can store luggage in a dedicated back room, giving travelers the freedom to explore before room access. Suites feature plush bedding, blackout shades, and climate control, creating reliable comfort that supports consistent, quality rest every night. Business areas supply ergonomic chairs, printers, and reliable computers, allowing continuity of tasks and reducing stress for professionals.
Complimentary breakfast, reliable Wi-Fi, fitness equipment, and market snacks combine to provide consistency and clarity throughout every stay.
Courtyard by Marriott Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport
In Inver Grove Heights, Courtyard by Marriott Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport's easy-commute location keeps Vets Memorial ICE Arena a direct run, letting guests move with freedom.
Courtyard reinforces attentiveness with infused water and beverage stations, rituals that provide relaxation after long travel days. Suites feature sofa beds, hardwood finishes, and minibars, stylish and practical setups that provide comfort and consistency. Guests enjoying the indoor pool find loungers, towel service, and calm lighting, cues that reinforce dependable relaxation daily.
Guests enjoy breakfast service, fitness studios, pet-friendly spaces, and indoor pools, consistent features that support wellness.
Extended Stay America Suites - Minneapolis - Airport - Mendota Heights
A key navigational advantage of Extended Stay America Suites - Minneapolis - Airport - Mendota Heights in Inver Grove Heights is the easy drive to Vets Memorial ICE Arena, leaving more mental energy for the event.
The straightforward lobbies at Extended Stay America are easy to navigate, allowing guests to move from their car to their room with ease. A flat-screen TV with premium channels is standard in all suites, offering hotel guests a simple way to relax after a busy day. Outdoor picnic tables near the grilling stations create a complete al fresco dining experience for guests who prefer to cook for themselves.
A full kitchen, a swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, and a grab-and-go breakfast combine to create a comfortable and hassle-free experience.
Residence Inn by Marriott Minneapolis St. Paul / Eagan
Reaching Vets Memorial ICE Arena from Residence Inn by Marriott Minneapolis St. Paul / Eagan is an easy drive, a quality that weaves ease into the start of any day.
The Mix evening receptions at Residence Inn feature light bites and drinks, creating nightly pauses that ease transitions into evening relaxation. All suites feature closets, drawer storage, and luggage benches, helping travelers organize belongings smoothly during extended stays. Outdoor pools with shaded lounge chairs, towel racks, and beverage service deliver relaxing communal zones that enhance guest balance.
On-site markets, hot breakfast, EV charging, complimentary Wi-Fi, and business facilities create ease that enhances extended-stay comfort.
Super 8 Saint Paul
From Super 8 Saint Paul, Vets Memorial ICE Arena is a simple cross-town drive, a benefit that keeps the day's main event easily reachable.
Super 8 communal seating zones support social connection, offering guests comfortable spaces to meet or relax casually in the lobby. All guest rooms feature microwaves, fridges, and coffee stations, making routines simple and predictable across the brand footprint. Lobby areas featuring simple furniture, bright lighting, and murals create functional spaces that also reflect refreshed design cues.
Pet policies, Wi-Fi, and breakfast dining combine with laundry and parking, covering predictable routines for both families and groups.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Cottage Grove, MN
At Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Cottage Grove, MN, Vets Memorial ICE Arena is a simple drive, a key feature that elevates the convenience of the stay.
With a visible grab-and-go case beside the desk, Radisson lets late arrivals secure snacks and drinks without wandering the property. Every suite supplies extra linens, a sofa bed, and separate seating so small groups can balance remote work, meals, and evening rest without friction. Meeting foyers include registration tables, coat racks, and informal seating clusters, making pre-event flow and guest arrivals simple and organized.
Between breakfast, market, fitness rooms, pool loungers, meetings, and parking, everyday plans remain low-friction and easy to manage.
Four Points by Sheraton Mall of America Minneapolis Airport
When staying in the Inver Grove Heights area, the uncomplicated drive from Four Points by Sheraton Mall of America Minneapolis Airport to Vets Memorial ICE Arena is a low-stress start to the day.
Sheraton greets arrivals with consistent beverage service, reflecting brand-wide reliability and creating ease across all stays. Every suite offers lounge seating, hardwood floors, and minibars, combining local style with reliable convenience for long visits. In the Sheraton Club Lounge, private dining, refreshments, and quiet seating reinforce consistency for premium travelers daily.
Guests access business lounges, indoor pools, full-service dining, and parking, ensuring a dependable mix of balance and comfort.
Home2 Suites Eagan Minneapolis
This practical location relative to Vets Memorial ICE Arena helps Home2 Suites Eagan Minneapolis guests feel oriented and comfortable with the area's layout.
Home2 Suites situates its grab-and-go Home2 Market prominently, allowing travelers to purchase essentials conveniently at check-in. Guest rooms include plush pillows, blackout drapes, and adjustable thermostats, supporting restful comfort throughout overnight stays. The Oasis lobby designed with modular seating, bright finishes, and community spaces ensures orientation is easy and welcoming daily.
Guests benefit from business centers, meeting rooms, breakfast service, and Wi-Fi, ensuring productivity is supported while away.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott St. Paul Eagan
When travel in the Inver Grove Heights area is a factor, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott St. Paul Eagan's position as a sensible base is a true benefit.
Fairfield Inn balances reception sightlines with a visible coffee station so guests have a familiar reset point when they first walk in. Guest rooms contain microwaves, compact fridges, and coffee service, making daily routines convenient for travelers across short or long stays. At the 24/7 Market guests find cold beverages, snacks, and packaged meals, simplifying travel routines with predictable access anytime.
Amenities like meeting rooms, hot breakfast service, complimentary Wi-Fi, and parking give guests reliable resources for productivity and ease.
Book as a group & pay separately.
Lowest Group Rate Guaranteed.
Vets Memorial ICE Arena Local Area Guide
Welcome to the Vets Memorial ICE Arena in Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota. This guide is designed for players, coaches, families, and teams heading to the arena for tournaments, practices, or league play. We'll provide essential information on navigating the local area, planning your game day rhythm, finding convenient dining, and making the most of your visit. Get ready for a smooth and enjoyable experience at Vets Memorial ICE Arena.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Vets Memorial ICE Arena (Inver Grove Heights, MN)
Vets Memorial ICE Arena is situated in Inver Grove Heights, a suburban community southeast of St. Paul, Minnesota. The arena is easily accessible via major thoroughfares like Cahill Avenue and Concord Boulevard, which connect to Interstate 494 and U.S. Highway 10. Parking is primarily located directly at the arena, with ample space for team buses and spectator vehicles, though it can fill quickly during major events. For those flying in, Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) is approximately a 20-25 minute drive away, depending on traffic. Public transportation options are limited in this suburban area, making rideshares or personal vehicles the most practical choices for arrival. Smart arrival tactics include aiming to arrive at least 45-60 minutes before game times, especially for tournaments, to allow ample time for parking, gear management, and check-in procedures. Be mindful of local school traffic during weekday afternoons, which can add a few minutes to your travel time.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Vets Memorial ICE Arena
The area around Vets Memorial ICE Arena features a mix of suburban residential zones and commercial developments. While there aren't large hotel clusters immediately adjacent to the arena, you'll find a good selection of hotels in Inver Grove Heights itself and the neighboring communities of South St. Paul, Mendota Heights, and Eagan, typically within a 5-15 minute drive. These hotels cater to a range of budgets and often have amenities suitable for sports teams, such as breakfast options and ample parking. For team gatherings and family stays, areas slightly further out might offer more amenities or group-friendly rates. Demand for accommodations can spike significantly during larger tournaments, so booking well in advance is strongly recommended. Utilizing map filters for "hotels near Inver Grove Heights" or "hotels near Vets Memorial ICE Arena" will help identify suitable options, and checking hotel proximity to highways like I-494 is key for easy access.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) is about a 25-minute drive from the arena.
- Arrive 45 minutes early for tournaments; parking is plentiful but can fill during peak times.
- Downtown Inver Grove Heights offers casual spots for post-game meals and team gatherings.
- Indoor shopping malls in nearby St. Paul provide a good fallback for inclement weather.
- The arena lobby serves as a central regroup point for teams and families between games.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Upon arrival, prioritize checking in your team with tournament officials or the arena desk to confirm your schedule and locker room assignment. Have your gear organized and ready for a swift transition from the car to the locker room. Utilize the arena concourses or designated warm-up areas for off-ice conditioning and team huddles. Be aware of the specific rules for ice access, often beginning only 15 minutes before game time to allow for Zamboni maintenance and arena preparation. Ensure players have enough time to get suited up and on the ice without rushing.
Mid-Day Regroup
Between games, the arena lobby and designated common areas are ideal for regrouping. Families can find nearby spots for quick lunches or snacks, while teams can review strategies or simply rest. If a longer break is scheduled, consider venturing to a nearby park for fresh air or a casual restaurant for a team meal. Keep an eye on the clock to ensure everyone is back and ready for the next game, allowing for travel time if you leave the immediate arena vicinity. Staying hydrated and fueled is crucial throughout the day.
Wrap-Up & Departure
After the final game, allow time for post-game handshakes and team gatherings in the locker room or common areas. Ensure all personal belongings and team equipment are collected from the locker room and vehicle. Be prepared for potential congestion in the parking lot as multiple teams depart simultaneously. If you have plans for a post-event team dinner, factor in this departure time. Clean up any trash in your designated areas before leaving the arena, leaving the space ready for the next users.
Things to Do Near Vets Memorial ICE Arena
Walkable
Inver Grove Heights Municipal Athletic Complex
Adjacent to the arena, this complex often hosts additional sports activities and community events. It provides outdoor green spaces that can be useful for stretching or casual recreation between games, especially during warmer months. While primarily focused on sports facilities, its proximity makes it a convenient extension of the arena experience for teams looking for outdoor space without traveling far.
8055 Barbara Ave · On siteCentral Park (Inver Grove Heights)
Located a short distance from the arena, Central Park offers walking paths, playgrounds, and open fields. It’s a great spot for families to let younger children burn off energy or for teams to enjoy some fresh air and light exercise during breaks in tournament schedules. The park facilities make it a pleasant detour for a relaxed afternoon if you have significant downtime between games.
8300 80th St · 0.9 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Wargo Nature Center
This nature center offers a peaceful escape with walking trails through woodlands and wetlands. It's an excellent option for those seeking a quieter, nature-focused activity away from the hustle of sports events. Visitors can learn about local flora and fauna, making it an educational and relaxing outing for families or individuals looking for a change of pace.
7300 78th St · 3.1 miThompson County Park
Thompson County Park provides a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking trails, picnic areas, and a disc golf course. It’s a good place for teams to engage in light team-building activities or for families to enjoy a picnic lunch. The park’s diverse amenities can cater to different interests, offering a well-rounded outdoor experience near the arena.
8001 Thompson Ave · 2.5 miBeyond the Event: Beyond the immediate vicinity, the larger metropolitan areas of St. Paul and Minneapolis offer a wealth of attractions, including museums, shopping centers, and professional sports venues. Consider these options if your stay extends beyond the tournament schedule. Planning transportation and understanding event schedules in these cities will be key to maximizing your visit.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Vets Memorial ICE Arena
Inside & Adjacent
Arena Concessions
The Vets Memorial ICE Arena offers convenient on-site concessions, providing classic arena fare like hot dogs, nachos, and beverages. This is the most straightforward option for quick snacks and drinks between games without needing to leave the facility. It’s ideal for grabbing a bite while keeping an eye on the ice or during short breaks in the schedule.
8055 Barbara Ave · On siteCulvers
A popular chain known for its burgers, frozen custard, and Wisconsin-style comfort food. Culvers offers a family-friendly atmosphere and a diverse menu that can satisfy various tastes, making it a reliable choice for team meals or family dinners. Their drive-thru option can also be convenient for quick take-out between games.
6000 Cahill Ave · 1.2 miNearby Gathering Spots
Lake Elmo Inn
While a bit further afield, the Lake Elmo Inn is renowned for its upscale dining experience, featuring American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients. It’s a great choice for a celebratory team dinner or for groups looking for a more refined meal after a successful tournament. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for larger parties.
3820 Lake Elmo Dr · 4.5 miManny's Tortas
This spot offers authentic Mexican tortas and other traditional dishes in a casual setting. It’s a good option for those seeking flavorful and hearty meals that are often a hit with athletes. The straightforward menu and quick service make it suitable for a group meal during a busy tournament day.
949 7th St W · 4.1 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Acqua Restaurant
Acqua offers Italian-inspired cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and pasta dishes. The ambiance is typically more relaxed and sophisticated, suitable for families or groups wanting a pleasant dining experience beyond typical sports fare. It’s a nice option for a slightly more special meal during your visit.
10710 153rd St N · 3.7 miW.A. Frost & Company
Located in the historic Cathedral Hill neighborhood of St. Paul, W.A. Frost offers a classic American menu in a charming setting with both indoor and outdoor seating options. It’s a well-regarded establishment perfect for a more leisurely dinner or a special occasion, providing a taste of the city's culinary scene.
374 Selby Ave · 7.5 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Weekday afternoons, especially during school dismissal, can see increased local traffic on roads like Cahill Avenue and Concord Boulevard.
- Tournament weekends at the arena often mean hotel rooms and popular restaurants book up quickly, so plan ahead.
- Mondays and Tuesdays are typically the quietest nights for local dining unless a specific event is scheduled.
- The area’s suburban nature means most shopping and dining requires a short drive from the arena.
- Expect standard Midwestern politeness; engaging with locals at shops or restaurants can yield helpful tips.
Weather & Seasons at Vets Memorial ICE Arena
- Winter: Expect cold temperatures, with average highs often below freezing and lows well below zero Fahrenheit. Snowfall is common, which can impact driving conditions, so allow extra travel time. Visitors should pack heavy coats, hats, gloves, and insulated footwear for any time spent outdoors. Indoor activities like the arena itself, or nearby malls, are good options.
- Spring & early summer: Temperatures gradually warm, moving from cool to pleasantly mild. Expect occasional rain showers, so packing a light waterproof jacket is advisable. This is a great time for outdoor activities, with parks and trails becoming more accessible and enjoyable. Layering clothing is key as mornings can be cool and afternoons warmer.
- Mid-summer: Summers are typically warm to hot and humid, with average highs in the upper 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit. Light, breathable clothing is recommended. Afternoon thunderstorms are not uncommon, so having a rain jacket handy and checking forecasts before outdoor plans is wise. Stay hydrated and take advantage of air-conditioned spaces when needed.
- Fall season: The fall season offers crisp, cool air and comfortable temperatures, often ideal for outdoor exploration. Days are sunny with cooler evenings. Layers are essential, including a light jacket or sweater for the mornings and evenings. Foliage can be beautiful, making drives to nearby parks or scenic areas very pleasant.
- Rain & snow: Rain can occur year-round but is more frequent in spring and early summer. Snow is characteristic of winter months, often accompanied by cold. Both can affect travel; always check road conditions and allow extra time. Indoor venues like the arena or local shopping centers provide good shelter and activities during inclement weather.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: Vets Memorial ICE Arena hosts various hockey leagues and tournaments.
- Neighborhood: Suburban Inver Grove Heights, southeast of St. Paul.
- Nearest airport: Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP).
- Parking: Ample on-site lot, can fill during major events.
- Walkable district: Limited; arena complex and nearby Central Park are the main areas.
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Nearby supermarkets in Inver Grove Heights.
- Pharmacy: Local drug stores available within a short drive.
- Urgent care: Several options in neighboring communities like Eagan or South St. Paul.
- Downtime: Parks, local restaurants, or nearby St. Paul attractions.
- Pro tip: Book accommodations and popular dining spots well in advance for tournament weekends.

