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Top 24 Hotels Near Pine Tree Valley Park Outdoor Rink
8431 Indian Blvd S Cottage Grove, MN
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Cottage Grove, MN
Pine Tree Valley Park Outdoor Rink is an easy drive from Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Cottage Grove, MN, a plan that ensures travel plans are always straightforward.
At Radisson, front-of-house layouts favor short paths to service points—reception, market, and café—so first decisions are fast and clear. Every guest room features a dedicated work surface, multiple USB outlets, good task lighting, and storage so short work sprints stay productive. Conference suites combine projector setups, breakout alcoves, and staffed support, simplifying event logistics for planners and small teams.
Offering Wi-Fi, an on-site restaurant, meetings, a gym, laundry, and pet amenities, properties blend comfort with practical utility.
enVision Hotel St. Paul South
In Cottage Grove, enVision Hotel St. Paul South's location a direct run from Pine Tree Valley Park Outdoor Rink lets guests move easily before their stay begins.
Guests at enVision Hotel St. Paul South may encounter intimate reception areas, artisanal touches, and staff offering friendly boutique-style service. Accommodations may present eclectic furnishings, plush bedding, and curated minibars for a distinctive boutique-style impression. Shared spaces typically provide intimate lounges, locally inspired dining, and curated cafés that reflect boutique-style orientation.
A stay may provide EV charging, artisanal breakfast, laundry service, and Wi-Fi, sustaining convenience and boutique individuality.
Hampton Inn Minneapolis / St. Paul-Woodbury
When visiting Cottage Grove, Hampton Inn Minneapolis / St. Paul-Woodbury is located an easy drive of Pine Tree Valley Park Outdoor Rink, which keeps the main event accessible by vehicle.
Hampton Inn lobbies feature sofa clusters with small tables, offering comfortable regrouping zones where families can pause after travel. Suites contain sofa beds, televisions, and lounge chairs, creating versatile living areas where families can relax together in comfort. Fitness rooms with treadmills, resistance machines, and mats create reliable wellness spaces, letting guests maintain balance away from home.
Complimentary internet, breakfast bags, fitness rooms, business lounges, and self-parking simplify travel while keeping routines steady.
AmericInn by Wyndham Inver Grove Heights Minneapolis
When a trip to Cottage Grove involves multiple stops, AmericInn by Wyndham Inver Grove Heights Minneapolis's location an easy drive from Pine Tree Valley Park Outdoor Rink is a functional asset.
Front-of-house markets at Wyndham stock travel basics and chilled beverages, helping families settle kids before heading to the room. All suites include additional seating, work surfaces, and premium mattress toppers, making multi-guest stays more comfortable and productive. Pool bars serve cocktails, chilled beverages, and light bites, offering a casual gathering place that helps coordinate post-event social plans.
Complimentary internet, breakfast buffets, fitness centers, on-site dining, secure parking, and dry cleaning let travelers focus on the trip.
Super 8 Saint Paul
A defining quality of the Super 8 Saint Paul experience in Cottage Grove is having Pine Tree Valley Park Outdoor Rink a direct run, which adds reliability to logistics.
Murals in refreshed Super 8 lobbies reflect local flavor, adding interest and character to otherwise practical, efficient spaces. Guest rooms provide flat-screen TVs, microwaves, and bedside USB ports, ensuring entertainment and device charging remain convenient. Vending areas beside reception provide essentials like drinks and snacks, ensuring travelers have immediate convenience on arrival.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and pet accommodations pair with laundry and parking, creating dependable comfort for longer stays.
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Inver Grove Heights / Minneap
The easy regional drive from Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Inver Grove Heights / Minneap to Pine Tree Valley Park Outdoor Rink in Cottage Grove guarantees guests have a pleasant option for their daily travel.
Microtel reception posts clear wayfinding and queue markers, turning busier moments into a steady, predictable flow at the counter. Guest rooms at refreshed sites add backlit mirrors and USB-equipped lamps, improving charging and morning clarity at the sink. Meeting rooms offer flexible seating, basic A/V hookups, and whiteboards, making briefings or family gatherings straightforward to stage on site.
With Wi-Fi, breakfast, guest laundry, and a fitness room, both work trips and weekends maintain balance without cross-town stops.
Holiday Inn Express St. Paul S - Inver Grove Hgts by IHG
When regional plans include Pine Tree Valley Park Outdoor Rink, Holiday Inn Express St. Paul S - Inver Grove Hgts by IHG is a convenient base, letting guests arrive relaxed and on schedule.
Holiday Inn Express lobbies emphasize simple design and clear reception zones, creating reliable orientation points for arrivals. All guest rooms offer plush beds, blackout curtains, and digital thermostats, making restful nights predictable across all stays. Meeting rooms with AV systems, flexible layouts, and breakout zones enable professional events to run smoothly across properties.
Pet-friendly accommodations, breakfast service, and Wi-Fi align with laundry and pools, making stays balanced and stress-free.
Extended Stay America Suites - St. Paul - Woodbury
From the lobby of Extended Stay America Suites - St. Paul - Woodbury, Pine Tree Valley Park Outdoor Rink is an easy regional drive to start the day right.
The free grab-and-go breakfast at Extended Stay America, featuring coffee and a muffin or bar, offers a simple start to the morning. All suites are furnished with the necessary dishes, glasses, and silverware, removing a common hassle for extended-stay hotel guests. Outdoor picnic and barbecue areas are a fantastic feature, offering a free and fun way for guests to cook, dine, and socialize.
For a hassle-free journey, free Wi-Fi, a grab-and-go breakfast, a guest laundry, and a full in-room kitchen are readily available.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham St. Paul-Woodbury
In the Cottage Grove region, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham St. Paul-Woodbury is situated as a convenient base, which ensures a simple commute.
Seating clusters in La Quinta lobbies serve as regrouping points, ensuring orientation clarity and comfortable pauses for travelers. All guest rooms contain Bright Morning Beds®, blackout curtains, and climate systems, ensuring dependable comfort each night. Breakfast setups offering buffets, cereals, and coffee machines deliver day-start clarity that travelers can rely on consistently.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and fitness facilities align with parking and pools, supporting wellness and predictability daily.
Sheraton St. Paul Woodbury Hotel
Pine Tree Valley Park Outdoor Rink is a simple commute from Sheraton St. Paul Woodbury Hotel, a setup that offers a simple way to get there.
Guests at Sheraton encounter infused water and coffee service together, simple rituals that ease arrivals with dependable comfort. Each guest room delivers smart TVs, bedside USB hubs, and coffee service, helping travelers combine entertainment and convenience. In the Sheraton Club Lounge, breakfast spreads, concierge desks, and private seating highlight convenience and premium service.
Guests enjoy fitness centers, business hubs, complimentary breakfast, and outdoor pools, providing reliable balance every stay.
Courtyard by Marriott St. Paul Woodbury
As a practical base, Courtyard by Marriott St. Paul Woodbury is a key element that allows for a more dynamic daily rhythm.
Courtyard provides lobby beverage service as a daily ritual, simple touches that highlight care and add consistency across properties. Suites feature sofa beds, dining counters, and hardwood details, giving guests layouts that balance family use with comfort. In the meeting lounge, conference tables, task lighting, and Wi-Fi ensure business travelers maintain productivity without stress.
Guests benefit from complimentary Wi-Fi, fitness centers, outdoor pools, and 24/7 markets, supporting reliable comfort during travel.
Extended Stay America Suites Minneapolis Woodbury
For guests in the Cottage Grove area, Extended Stay America Suites Minneapolis Woodbury is a practical base, a location that supports an efficient and enjoyable itinerary.
A friendly welcome from the staff helps guests at Extended Stay America feel at home, setting a positive tone for their entire stay. A large, flat-screen TV in each guest room offers premium channels, providing a simple way to unwind after a day of work or activities. The complimentary grab-and-go breakfast is a straightforward amenity that adds a layer of convenience and value to the guest experience.
With a swimming pool for downtime, a kitchen for meals, and a fitness center for exercise, guests find many comforts for their entire day.
Coratel Inn and Suites by Jasper Saint Paul Minneapolis Inver Grove Heights.
This sensible base helps Coratel Inn and Suites by Jasper Saint Paul Minneapolis Inver Grove Heights. Guests feel grounded in the local Cottage Grove area while keeping Pine Tree Valley Park Outdoor Rink accessible.
At Coratel Inn and Suites by Jasper Saint Paul Minneapolis Inver Grove Heights., arrivals may include modest furnishings, complimentary parking, and vending services for daily guest accessibility. Accommodations often highlight comfortable bedding, Wi-Fi, and compact work surfaces, providing guests with simple and functional routines. Facilities may showcase modest breakfast spaces, vending corners, and coin-operated laundry that sustain clarity and convenience daily.
Accommodations may include Wi-Fi, guest laundry, breakfast spaces, and parking, helping visitors sustain reliable balance across trips.
Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites St. Paul NE - Lake Elmo by IHG
In the Cottage Grove region, Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites St. Paul NE - Lake Elmo by IHG is situated as a convenient base, a position that adds value to the guest experience.
Holiday Inn & Suites reception counters are located with clear sightlines, helping new arrivals orient quickly without confusion. All guest rooms feature plush mattresses, blackout curtains, and modern thermostats, ensuring consistent nightly rest for all guests. Pools with loungers, towels, and umbrellas provide versatile spaces for relaxation and recreation across family or solo travel needs.
Free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and pools pair with business facilities and laundry, covering both leisure and professional needs.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Woodbury, MN
For those making an easy regional drive, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Woodbury, MN is a practical base for accessing Pine Tree Valley Park Outdoor Rink and the surrounding area.
Radisson sometimes provides complimentary coffee and tea at the lobby counter, giving a familiar pause point that helps reset after travel. All guest rooms provide a coffee maker, microwave, and handy storage surfaces, keeping breakfasts and late-night snacks organized and near at hand. Breakfast buffets feature hot items, fruit displays, and beverage counters, so guests can choose speed or a fuller sit-down morning start.
From business center and meetings to a gym, pool deck, dining, parking, and accessible rooms, events and stays feel well-supported.
LivINN Hotel St. Paul – I-94 – East 3M Area
For a trip to the area, LivINN Hotel St. Paul – I-94 – East 3M Area's location as a convenient base is an essential piece of its appeal.
Guests at LivINN Hotel St. Paul – I-94 – East 3M Area may encounter a simple desk, quick parking options, and vending access arranged for reliable budget arrivals. Rooms may include premium linens, rainfall showers, and hardwood floors that contribute to a practical yet stylish environment for rest. Shared spaces may include vending areas, compact seating, and breakfast counters that emphasize the straightforward style of budget travel.
A visit may highlight Wi-Fi, vending access, modest breakfast, and guest laundries, giving travelers consistent routines during stays.
The Confluence Hotel
For travelers with a wide-ranging itinerary, The Confluence Hotel is a sensible base, keeping Pine Tree Valley Park Outdoor Rink an easy regional drive away.
The Confluence Hotel often greets arrivals with curated interiors, cozy seating, and complimentary coffee or tea for a relaxed boutique welcome. Rooms typically feature artisanal design, stylish interiors, and bathrooms with refined finishes that reflect boutique flair. Facilities may showcase eclectic interiors, artisanal bars, and co-working corners that highlight a boutique-forward environment.
Accommodations often highlight bike rentals, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and boutique breakfast, ensuring balanced daily guest rhythms.
DoubleTree by Hilton St. Paul East
The inherent advantage of DoubleTree by Hilton St. Paul East in Cottage Grove is its role as a convenient base, keeping Pine Tree Valley Park Outdoor Rink within driving reach.
Lobby coffee taps at DoubleTree function as complimentary reset points, offering immediate hydration and comfort without extra cost. Alarm clocks, irons, and ironing boards are included in all rooms, reinforcing brand consistency and daily convenience across stays. Business centers with copy equipment and reliable Wi-Fi deliver productivity support, enabling travelers to complete tasks smoothly.
Breakfast buffet, coffee stations, Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, and business services align essentials, supporting consistent productivity and clarity.
Comfort Inn Saint Paul East
Guests at Comfort Inn Saint Paul East can enjoy it as a practical base, a defining feature of a well-located stay.
Comfort Inn frames arrival with visible front desks and warm lobby seating that eases transition after travel and supports quick regroup. Standard guest rooms prioritize clear sightlines from door to desk to bed so late arrivals can set in quickly and start routines fast. Business centers often include parcel support and small supplies, simplifying shipping returns and meeting-day print backups when details change.
Between breakfast options, coffee points, EV charging, and parking, mornings and vehicle needs sync for smoother departures.
Motel 6 Saint Paul MN - I-94
In the Cottage Grove region, Motel 6 Saint Paul MN - I-94's role as a convenient base lets guests move with a sense of freedom.
Motel 6 lobbies stay uncluttered, keeping attention focused on ID check, payment, and keys so arrivals progress without unnecessary friction. Every guest room includes basic storage and seating, helping visitors keep personal items managed and enjoy functional living spaces. Snack vending areas pair with beverage machines, consolidating quick choices and saving an extra store run when energy is running low.
From pet-friendly rooms to vending areas with drinks and snacks, plus Wi-Fi and laundry, properties keep travel needs predictable.
Omni Viking Lakes Hotel
Pine Tree Valley Park Outdoor Rink is within driving reach from Omni Viking Lakes Hotel, a convenience that ensures the journey there is as simple as the stay itself.
Omni frames arrival lounges with softer lighting and local art, easing the shift from transit to planned time with calm orientation. Every suite organizes HDMI-friendly TVs, bedside outlets, and fast Wi-Fi, keeping presentations and media handy for trip purposes. Spas offer massage menus, facials, and salon services, giving guests structured reset paths without stepping beyond the hotel footprint.
From cafés and lobby bars to Wi-Fi, fitness access, and dry cleaning, travelers keep mornings structured and evenings relaxed on site.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Eagan, MN
This practical base helps Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Eagan, MN guests get like they are part of the local Cottage Grove scene without a major commute.
Radisson places clear sightlines from curb to desk and lobby café, creating a short arrival flow that reduces first-hour wayfinding friction. Suites add a separate living area, a sofa bed, additional seating, and a dining surface, giving families and groups flexible zones to unwind. Small boardrooms offer video-conferencing gear, dedicated tables, and privacy treatments, helping remote calls run smoothly without interruption.
With grab-and-go cases, free internet, fitness access, meetings, EV charging, and laundry, routines stay efficient for busy travel days.
Nichols Inn of Hastings
The primary advantage of Nichols Inn of Hastings as a base in Cottage Grove is keeping Pine Tree Valley Park Outdoor Rink an easy regional drive away.
Nichols Inn of Hastings typically offers efficient check-in, modest lobby chairs, and self-serve coffee that emphasize budget-style convenience. Each guest room typically provides climate control, compact seating, and in-room coffee, reinforcing comfort and daily travel routines. Facilities often feature guest laundries, modest lobbies, and vending machines that help maintain consistent routines for all visitors.
Guests may enjoy Wi-Fi, compact breakfast corners, vending machines, and laundry support, reinforcing practicality across overnight visits.
Coratel Inn & Suites by Jasper Hastings
Guests at Coratel Inn & Suites by Jasper Hastings can appreciate it as a convenient base, with Pine Tree Valley Park Outdoor Rink an easy regional drive away.
Arrivals at Coratel Inn & Suites by Jasper Hastings may highlight basic reception, complimentary parking, and vending machines for guest-oriented practicality. Guest rooms may feature hardwood floors, tasteful décor, and blackout curtains that help ensure rest and privacy during overnight stays. Public areas typically present vending access, compact business corners, and breakfast rooms that reinforce functional guest routines.
A stay may provide Wi-Fi, breakfast service, vending areas, and laundry rooms, sustaining clear and consistent routines in budget hotels.
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Pine Tree Valley Park Outdoor Rink Local Area Guide
Welcome to the Pine Tree Valley Park Outdoor Rink in Cottage Grove, Minnesota. This guide is designed to help players, families, and visiting teams navigate their game days and make the most of their time in the area. From understanding arrival logistics and on-site amenities to discovering nearby dining and attractions, we'll provide the essential information for a smooth and enjoyable visit. Get ready to experience a local winter tradition with confidence.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Pine Tree Valley Park Outdoor Rink (Cottage Grove, MN)
Pine Tree Valley Park is situated in the southern part of Cottage Grove, a suburb southeast of St. Paul. The park is easily accessible from Interstate 494 and U.S. Highway 10, with Indian Boulevard serving as the primary local artery. Traffic is generally manageable on non-event days, but expect increased local congestion during peak hockey and public skate hours, especially on weekends. The nearest major airport is Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP), approximately a 30-40 minute drive away, depending on traffic. Public transportation options are limited in this suburban area, making car or rideshare the most common modes of transport. For a smooth arrival, aim to reach the park 15-20 minutes before your scheduled ice time to allow for parking and gear preparation.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Pine Tree Valley Park Outdoor Rink
The immediate vicinity of Pine Tree Valley Park is largely residential and parkland, with most hotels located a short drive away in neighboring communities like Woodbury or Hastings. Cottage Grove itself has limited hotel options directly adjacent to the park. Nearby Woodbury, a larger neighboring city, offers a wider selection of chain hotels catering to various budgets. Hastings also provides several accommodation choices. Given the park’s focus on local recreation and scheduled ice times, hotel demand is not typically tied to major sporting events in the same way as professional venues. However, booking in advance is always recommended, especially during the popular winter months when outdoor rinks are in full swing. Utilizing map filters to search hotels within a 5-10 mile radius of the park will yield the best results.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) is about a 30-40 minute drive away.
- Arrive 15-20 minutes early for parking and to locate the rink and amenities.
- Enjoy casual dining and shopping options in downtown Hastings or nearby Woodbury.
- Local libraries or indoor shopping centers in Woodbury offer shelter and activities.
- The park’s warming house provides a central point for teams to gather and rest.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Plan to arrive at Pine Tree Valley Park at least 15 to 20 minutes before your scheduled ice time. This buffer is crucial for finding parking, unloading gear, and navigating to the outdoor rink. Utilize the warming house to change and prepare your gear, or find a suitable spot near the rink if weather permits. Familiarize yourselves with the rink’s layout, including player benches and any designated warm-up zones. Ensure all players have their equipment securely managed, especially in colder conditions.
Mid-Day Regroup
With outdoor rinks, downtime between games or during breaks often means staying on-site. The warming house serves as a key area for players and families to rest, hydrate, and have light snacks. Consider bringing folding chairs for comfort if you plan to spend extended periods outdoors. Staying close to the rink ensures you don’t miss the transition to your next ice slot. Keep an eye on weather conditions and adjust your on-site strategy accordingly.
Wrap-Up & Departure
After your final ice session, allow ample time for changing back into street clothes and packing up equipment. The warming house can become busy during these peak times, so be patient. Ensure all personal belongings and team gear are accounted for before departing the rink area. Be mindful of traffic flow as other teams and public skaters are also leaving the park. A quick check of your vehicle and surroundings before driving off is always a good practice.
Things to Do Near Pine Tree Valley Park Outdoor Rink
Walkable
Pine Tree Valley Park Trails
Pine Tree Valley Park offers a network of walking and nature trails that are accessible directly from the outdoor rink area. These trails wind through wooded sections and open spaces, providing a refreshing escape for a brisk walk or a moment of quiet contemplation away from the rink's activity. Depending on the season, visitors can enjoy the changing foliage in the fall or a peaceful, snow-dusted landscape in the winter. It's an ideal spot for a light warm-up before skating or a way to stretch your legs during longer breaks.
Park adjacent · On siteMississippi River Trail Access
While not directly in the park, access points to the Mississippi River Trail system are relatively close by, offering a paved path for walking or biking enthusiasts. This trail system provides scenic views of the river and its surrounding natural environment. It's a great option for those looking for a longer excursion or a different kind of outdoor activity after a session at the rink. The trail's accessibility makes it an easy addition to a day of visiting Pine Tree Valley Park.
0.7 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Colonial Lanes Bowling Center
Located just a short drive away in Woodbury, Colonial Lanes offers a fun indoor alternative for families and groups looking to escape the cold or enjoy some friendly competition off the ice. This entertainment center features traditional bowling lanes, an arcade, and often has food and drink specials available. It’s a perfect spot for an after-game celebration or a relaxed afternoon activity when the weather outside is less inviting. They cater to casual bowlers and can accommodate groups of various sizes.
Woodbury · 4.5 miLily Pond Park
Lily Pond Park in Cottage Grove offers additional recreational space with walking paths and open areas, providing a different natural setting to explore. While it may not have the direct amenities of Pine Tree Valley Park, it’s a quieter spot for a stroll or to let younger children burn off some energy in a park setting. The park's natural beauty changes with the seasons, making it a pleasant destination for a leisurely walk during your visit to the area.
Cottage Grove · 3.0 miBeyond the Event: For those seeking more extensive shopping or entertainment, the larger retail centers in Woodbury are a short drive away, offering a variety of chain stores and dining options. Alternatively, the historic riverfront town of Hastings provides a charming downtown area with unique shops and eateries, offering a glimpse into local history and community life.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Pine Tree Valley Park Outdoor Rink
Inside & Adjacent
Pine Tree Valley Park Warming House
While not a full-service restaurant, the warming house at Pine Tree Valley Park often provides basic concessions. This typically includes hot and cold beverages, pre-packaged snacks like chips and candy, and sometimes simple items like hot dogs or soup during peak operating hours. It's the most convenient option for a quick bite or a warm drink while you’re at the rink. Check the park’s operating schedule for concession availability, as it can vary.
On siteTavern on the Avenue
Located along Indian Boulevard, Tavern on the Avenue offers a casual dining experience with a menu featuring pub fare, sandwiches, and entrees. It’s a straightforward option for families and teams looking for a relaxed meal before or after their ice time. The atmosphere is typically laid-back, making it a comfortable stop for a group that needs a convenient and accessible dining solution without venturing too far from the park.
Cottage Grove · 1.5 miNearby Gathering Spots
Wood Tavern
Wood Tavern in nearby Woodbury presents a more contemporary gastropub atmosphere, offering a diverse menu with creative appetizers, craft beers, and elevated comfort food. It’s a suitable spot for teams or families looking for a slightly more upscale but still casual dining experience. The lively environment can be a good place for groups to gather and discuss their game or simply enjoy a well-prepared meal and a selection of beverages.
Woodbury · 4.0 miChipotle Mexican Grill
For a quick, customizable, and crowd-pleasing option, Chipotle Mexican Grill in Woodbury is a reliable choice. Its build-your-own burrito bowls and tacos make it easy for individuals to get exactly what they want, catering to diverse tastes and dietary needs within a team or family. It's efficient for larger groups and offers a familiar dining experience after an active day at the rink.
Woodbury · 4.2 miLocal & Elevated Picks
The Foggy Goggle
Located in the historic downtown area of Hastings, The Foggy Goggle is a popular local spot known for its friendly service and diverse menu, which often includes American classics with a creative twist. It offers a cozy atmosphere that’s great for families and teams looking to experience a bit of local flavor. Enjoy their pub-style food and beverage selection while taking in the charm of a historic river town.
Hastings · 6.5 miDomacin Wine Bar & Restaurant
While a bit further afield in Stillwater, Domacin offers a more refined dining experience with an emphasis on wine selection and upscale American cuisine. If your group is looking for a special celebratory meal or a higher-end option, this restaurant provides a sophisticated ambiance and expertly prepared dishes. It's worth the drive for those seeking a memorable culinary experience.
Stillwater · 15 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Winter parking at the rink can get busy; arrive early or be prepared for a short walk from overflow spots.
- Check the park’s official website or local news for ice conditions and hours before heading out, especially during extreme cold or thaw periods.
- Public skate sessions can be very popular on weekend afternoons; expect a lively atmosphere and many families.
- Bring extra warm layers; outdoor rinks can feel significantly colder than the air temperature due to wind chill.
- Local traffic on Indian Boulevard can slow considerably during peak rink usage hours, particularly on Friday evenings and weekend mornings.
Weather & Seasons at Pine Tree Valley Park Outdoor Rink
- Winter: Winter in Cottage Grove brings cold temperatures, often dipping well below freezing. Visitors should expect to bundle up in heavy coats, insulated pants, hats, and gloves. The outdoor rink is operational thanks to these cold conditions, so dressing in layers that allow for activity is key. Outdoor time at the rink requires robust winter gear.
- Spring & early summer: Spring and early summer are characterized by warming temperatures, transitioning from chilly to pleasantly mild and then warm. The outdoor rink is not in use during this period. Pack lighter jackets and layers for early spring, moving towards t-shirts and shorts as summer approaches. Outdoor activities in the park, like walking the trails, are highly enjoyable during these months.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer in Cottage Grove is typically warm to hot and humid. Lightweight clothing, including shorts, t-shirts, and sun hats, is recommended. While the rink is inactive, the park's trails are popular for hiking and recreation. Staying hydrated and seeking shade are important during the peak heat of July and August.
- Fall season: Fall offers a refreshing transition with crisp air and stunning foliage. Temperatures gradually cool, requiring light to medium jackets and long sleeves. This is an ideal time to enjoy the park's trails before the winter ice season begins. The park setting is particularly beautiful with the changing leaves, making for pleasant outdoor excursions.
- Rain & snow: Rain can occur year-round, but is more common in spring and fall. Snow is a winter phenomenon essential for the outdoor rink's operation. During snowy conditions, heavy winter attire is necessary. Rain can make surfaces slippery, so caution is advised when walking or moving around the park. The rink's operational status can be affected by prolonged thaws or heavy snowfall.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: Local youth hockey leagues and public skaters
- Neighborhood: South Cottage Grove residential area
- Nearest airport: Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP)
- Parking: Dedicated lot adjacent to the rink; overflow available
- Walkable district: Park trails, limited surrounding residential streets
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Cub Foods (Woodbury) or Festival Foods (Hastings)
- Pharmacy: Walgreens or CVS in Woodbury or Hastings
- Urgent care: Allina Health Urgent Care - Woodbury
- Downtime: Warming house, park trails, nearby libraries
- Pro tip: Bring extra blankets and a thermos of hot chocolate for extended rink visits.

