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Top 24 Hotels Near Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink
2000 St Anthony Saint Paul, MN
Quality Inn St. Paul-Minneapolis-Midway
The journey from Quality Inn St. Paul-Minneapolis-Midway to Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink is a quick ride, a perk that contributes to a cohesive and convenient visit.
Quality Inn arrival seating clusters and charging hubs near the desk let families regroup and charge devices while keys are prepared. Standard rooms feature blackout drapes, pillowtop mattresses, and quiet HVAC to support restorative sleep and steadier morning starts. Fitness studios sometimes include stretching zones or yoga mats, offering low-impact recovery options between flights or event days.
Between Wi-Fi, breakfast, meeting rooms, and straightforward parking, amenities assemble the essentials so stays feel composed and work-ready.
Hampton Inn & Suites Minneapolis University Area
From Hampton Inn & Suites Minneapolis University Area, Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink is a short drive, offering a direct route for getting to your destination.
Community-style tables in Hampton Inn receptions create functional hubs, letting groups coordinate plans comfortably upon arrival. All guest rooms include blackout curtains, plush linens, and digital thermostats, supporting restful environments and restorative sleep. Breakfast rooms with hot selections, cereal stations, and coffee service keep mornings consistent, giving guests dependable starts daily.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, laundry access, indoor pools, and Pavilion Pantry offerings ensure ease that keeps routines simple.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Minneapolis University Area
Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink is an easy drive from Home2 Suites by Hilton Minneapolis University Area, a convenience that allows for a thought-free and simple part of the day.
Guests visiting Home2 Suites encounter infused water stations at reception, a detail of care that refreshes travelers after long trips. Guest rooms include ergonomic chairs, work desks, and Wi-Fi, helping professionals stay productive during travel consistently. In the breakfast area, guests find hot selections, cereals, and fresh coffee, providing a consistent start that keeps routines reliable.
Amenities include pet-friendly spaces, 24/7 markets, business services, and Wi-Fi, helping travel feel convenient and stress-free.
Hilton Garden Inn Minneapolis University Area
At Hilton Garden Inn Minneapolis University Area, being an easy drive from Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink means a speedy commute for event attendees, enhancing the visit.
Hilton Garden Inn lobbies feature open layouts with modern lighting, producing orientation clarity that reduces confusion at check-in. Guest rooms include microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers, letting guests prepare snacks and drinks with convenient in-room appliances. Breakfast spaces with hot items, fruit stations, and community seating provide dependable hospitality that anchors daily guest routines.
Complimentary breakfast, Pavilion Pantry markets, fitness centers, self-parking, and indoor pools give travelers everyday convenience.
Days Hotel by Wyndham University Ave SE
From Days Hotel by Wyndham University Ave SE, the quick connection to Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink puts travelers within easy reach for major events of their destination.
Clear wayfinding and sightlines at Wyndham reception reduce bottlenecks, helping travelers finish check-in and move on without confusion. Guest rooms supply complimentary bottled water, bedside reading lights, and blackout curtains, giving travelers a simple routine for rest. Rooftop pools combine lounge chairs, shade umbrellas, and skyline views, giving guests a scenic reset between meetings or shore excursions.
Fast Wi-Fi, streamable TVs, meeting planners, on-site dining, laundry services, and secure parking support events and leisure stays.
Graduate by Hilton Minneapolis
Within Saint Paul, Graduate by Hilton Minneapolis is a short drive from Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink, which helps the hotel to feel well-connected.
Upon arrival, Hilton situates concierge counters and reception desks visibly, helping ensure orientation clarity and smooth check-in. Each guest room offers ergonomic chairs, strong lighting, and large desks, ensuring business tasks can be managed comfortably. Guests in the breakfast room enjoy cereals, waffles, and juices, helping mornings stay consistent and dependable across properties.
Amenities include free breakfast, parking, Wi-Fi, and business centers, giving travelers confidence that routines will stay consistent.
Emery Autograph Collection Hotel
This useful drive to Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink from Emery Autograph Collection Hotel is a key feature, as it promotes a relaxed and manageable itinerary.
Autograph Collection greets travelers with turndown touches or welcome snacks, rituals that provide care and reinforce comfort. Every suite incorporates spa-quality baths, soaking tubs, and curated robes, creating luxury signals with dependable relaxation daily. Guests using the spa encounter massage suites, saunas, and premium products, refreshing routines with balance and dependable care.
With spa treatments, outdoor pools, dining venues, and valet parking, guests enjoy relaxation and reliability across all stays.
Snelling Motel
This useful drive to Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink from Snelling Motel is a central element, because it ensures the stay is built on simplicity.
Snelling Motel often includes exterior entries, vending machines, and modest lobbies that create practical and straightforward arrivals. Guest rooms typically present climate control, compact bathrooms, and Wi-Fi, helping guests maintain reliable routines each day. Shared spaces may highlight modest lobbies, vending areas, and compact breakfast counters that sustain practical routines each day.
A stay may include Wi-Fi, pet-friendly policies, exterior parking, and vending access, sustaining consistent routines for budget guests.
Courtyard by Marriott Minneapolis Downtown
Guests at Courtyard by Marriott Minneapolis Downtown can leverage Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink being a direct run, a perk that adds a relaxing touch to the stay.
Guests at Courtyard find Digital Key prompts near reception, letting loyalty members bypass delays and begin their stays faster. Suites incorporate lounge seating, hardwood floors, and curated minibars, combining modern finishes with consistent daily comfort. The fitness center stocked with treadmills, mats, and weights lets travelers sustain exercise routines consistently while away.
Amenities include indoor pools, valet parking, meeting rooms, and Wi-Fi, ensuring balanced routines for both business and leisure.
Delta Hotels by Marriott Minneapolis Northeast
This accessible drive to Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink allows Delta Hotels by Marriott Minneapolis Northeast to provide a convenient yet peaceful setting before the stay unfolds.
Delta Hotels reinforces consistency through polished counters, bright finishes, and seating clusters that simplify orientation. Suites highlight modern finishes, curated minibars, and sofa seating, balancing reliable convenience with upscale design touches. In the pool area, shaded seating, cushioned loungers, and towel service create reliable hubs where families can unwind together.
Amenities include laundry service, meeting facilities, fitness equipment, and hot breakfast, supporting convenience every day.
Aloft Minneapolis
This direct drive to Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink from Aloft Minneapolis lets guests to feel oriented and comfortable in the Saint Paul area.
Aloft welcomes guests with bold lobby design, open reception, and bright communal zones, making orientation simple and immediately stress free. Each guest room contains ergonomic furniture, ample lighting, and complimentary Wi-Fi, enabling travelers to sustain productive work habits. Splash pools feature lounge chairs, fresh towels, and open layouts, creating balanced leisure spaces where travelers can relax and refresh daily.
Amenities include Re:fuel grab-and-go bowls, splash pool seating, Wi-Fi access, and meeting rooms, offering flexibility for all guest schedules.
Radisson Hotel St. Paul Downtown
Within Saint Paul, Radisson Hotel St. Paul Downtown keeps Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink a simple drive, a fact that lets the hotel to feel both convenient and calm.
Radisson places bar seating adjacent to reception, creating a low-effort unwind spot where travelers can sit and reorient after trips. Guest rooms round out essentials with a flat-screen TV, clear storage, and practical bedside surfaces so routines feel familiar and easy. Bar and lounge areas present high-top seating, small plates, and evening drink service, offering a low-effort unwind after packed travel days.
With hot-morning choices, free internet, a gym, conference rooms, a market, and parking, trip logistics become simpler to plan and use.
Residence Inn by Marriott St. Paul Downtown
This uncomplicated drive to Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink helps Residence Inn by Marriott St. Paul Downtown guests become like they are part of the local Saint Paul scene without a major commute.
Residence Inn begins mornings with complimentary hot breakfast stations, giving guests dependable nourishment to start their day energized and at ease. Suites include refrigerators, dishwashers, and stovetops, enabling guests to maintain everyday meal routines while away from home. Indoor pools paired with deck seating, spa tubs, and towel service provide versatile areas where relaxation and activity balance easily.
Concierge support, breakfast buffets, EV charging, outdoor pools, and fitness areas provide thoughtful amenities that enhance every visit.
Moxy Minneapolis Downtown
At Moxy Minneapolis Downtown, Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink is a simple drive, a core aspect that enhances the freedom of the guest.
Moxy fills lobbies with bold décor, upbeat soundtracks, and seating clusters, creating spaces that encourage casual connection. Every suite combines rainfall showers, bold graphics, and climate control, creating modern spaces that feel efficient and stylish. In the grab-and-go shop, sandwiches, bottled drinks, and snacks are stocked, helping travelers maintain convenience during long days.
Amenities include cocktail bars, foosball tables, fitness rooms, and laundry access, ensuring travel remains playful yet practical.
Motel 6 Roseville MN - Minneapolis North
For a stay that depends on reliable car travel, Motel 6 Roseville MN - Minneapolis North offers an easy drive to Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink, making it a solid foundation for your trip.
Reception teams at Motel 6 confirm directions to elevators, restrooms, or parking, reducing confusion in the moments after check-in. All guest rooms deliver blackout curtains, plush bedding, and adjustable lighting, creating sleep environments tailored to guest needs. Pool areas at many sites add hot tubs or family-friendly decks, offering different recreational opportunities depending on property size.
Between parking, vending, free coffee, and accessible features, properties cover basics while maintaining inclusivity on site.
Holiday Inn St. Paul Downtown by IHG
The inherent advantage of Holiday Inn St. Paul Downtown by IHG in Saint Paul is having Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink a direct run, allowing for a predictable travel plan.
Complimentary tea and coffee stations at Holiday Inn & Suites ease the transition from travel, reinforcing brand care and consistency. Guest rooms include coffee makers, mini-fridges, and bedside charging, giving travelers clarity and convenience during their visits. Lobby lounges arranged with communal tables, bright lighting, and comfortable chairs foster orientation clarity and casual meetings.
Free Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, and indoor pools join with business centers and laundry, simplifying routines across extended stays.
Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown St. Paul
For a trip where a direct drive is essential, Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown St. Paul offers a simple drive to Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink, making it a logical hub for any itinerary.
Bright lighting and open layouts at Hampton Inn receptions support orientation clarity, giving travelers smooth navigation cues at check-in. Guest rooms offer ergonomic chairs, desks, and reliable Wi-Fi, helping travelers maintain productivity in comfortable, practical spaces. Fitness studios with cardio machines, mats, and resistance equipment maintain health routines, helping travelers sustain energy easily.
Business lounges, complimentary internet, breakfast bags, outdoor pools, and self-parking deliver balanced amenities for guest stays.
Radisson RED Minneapolis Downtown
In Saint Paul, Radisson RED Minneapolis Downtown is situated an easy drive from Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink, which creates a sense of calm.
Radisson locates water refill and recycling points and bottle-filling stations near the entry so guests hydrate and tidy without detours. Guest rooms include plush bedding, blackout drapes, a movable work desk, and bedside outlets to support focused work and restful sleep. Indoor social zones mix banquette seating, ottomans, and charging stations, creating informal meeting points that support group plans and work.
For extended stays, in-room kitchenettes at some hotels, full laundry, fitness, pool access, meetings, and Wi-Fi support daily life on the road.
Elliot Park Hotel Autograph Collection
The hotel's spot a direct run from Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink gives Elliot Park Hotel Autograph Collection guests a easy way to engage with their surroundings.
In Autograph Collection arrivals, bold murals, curated scent, and signature lighting combine to create memorable first impressions. Guest rooms offer plush mattresses, espresso machines, and blackout curtains, ensuring restful comfort and energizing mornings daily. At the cultural lounge, art programs, curated books, and modular seating create social hubs tied to enrichment and reflection.
Amenities include meeting rooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, cultural lounges, and fitness centers, ensuring balance of work and leisure.
Hyatt Place Minneapolis Downtown
The hotel's sensible location ensures Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink is within easy reach, underscoring its suitability for regional travel.
Hydration points with complimentary tea or coffee at Hyatt Place provide small courtesies that soften arrivals for weary travelers. Guest rooms offer Cozy Corner seating with sofa-sleepers, flat-screen HDTVs, and charging outlets, letting guests relax and recharge easily. Lounge areas with signature cocktails, ambient lighting, and seating clusters deliver premium experiences that elevate social time.
Hot breakfast, laundry, and Wi-Fi align with business centers and pools, keeping both short trips and longer stays manageable.
Best Western Plus The Normandy Inn & Suites
Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink is an uncomplicated drive of Best Western Plus The Normandy Inn & Suites, a location that offers a simple way to get there before the stay.
Best Western posts concise neighborhood guides and QR links by the desk, turning first questions into direct routes for dining and transit options. All guest rooms keep closets, drawers, and luggage racks in reach, preventing clutter and making repacks faster on back-to-back days. Outdoor pools where available add shade and deck seating, letting families regroup without committing to long off-property breaks.
With EV charging where offered, self-parking, Wi-Fi, and airport shuttles, mobility and planning link cleanly across changing schedules and routes.
Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel The Depot
When your visit to Saint Paul is centered on Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink, Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel The Depot's location an easy drive away allows for a seamless daily plan.
At Renaissance Hotels, seasonal lobby activations create surprise moments that immerse guests in the destination from the start. Each guest room contains blackout curtains, digital climate control, and premium mattresses, ensuring comfort is personalized to preference. The lobby combines theatrical lighting and curated art displays, creating a striking first hub where guests can gather comfortably on arrival.
Pet-friendly policies, family accommodations, digital key access, and reliable Wi-Fi ensure stays feel flexible, convenient, and connected.
Celeste of St. Paul
For those making a cross-town trip, Celeste of St. Paul is an easy drive from Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink, ensuring the venue is readily accessible by car.
Guests at Celeste of St. Paul may find intimate lobby seating, curated interiors, and staff offering tailored check-in experiences. Guest rooms may feature eclectic décor, premium bedding, and curated minibars that reflect a stylish boutique orientation. Amenities typically include eclectic lounges, artisanal coffee shops, and farm-to-table dining that reinforce boutique individuality.
A stay often provides Wi-Fi, boutique breakfast, laundry service, and yoga mats, balancing boutique individuality with convenience.
Hilton Garden Inn Minneapolis Downtown
For guests in Saint Paul, Hilton Garden Inn Minneapolis Downtown keeps Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink an easy drive, a location that supports a variety of travel plans.
Sofa clusters at Hilton Garden Inn receptions give families regrouping spaces, allowing comfortable pauses before moving to suites. Each suite contains ergonomic desks, Wi-Fi access, and task chairs, ensuring business travelers stay productive in comfortable conditions. Lobbies combining lounge bars, sofa clusters, and bright lighting foster relaxed connection while also supporting orientation clarity.
On-site dining, complimentary Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, business facilities, and outdoor pools provide balanced support for all travelers.
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Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink Local Area Guide
Welcome to Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink, a key destination for ice sports enthusiasts in Saint Paul, Minnesota. This guide is designed for players, coaches, families, and teams looking for practical, on-the-ground information to enhance their visit. You'll find details on navigating the rink, understanding the local area, planning your schedule, and making the most of your time in Saint Paul, whether you're here for a tournament, a league game, or a team practice. We cover everything from arrival logistics to nearby amenities, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink (Saint Paul, MN)
Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink is situated in the Highland Park neighborhood of Saint Paul, Minnesota, a primarily residential area known for its green spaces and community facilities. The park itself offers extensive recreational opportunities beyond the ice. Access to the rink is straightforward via St. Anthony Avenue, which connects to major thoroughfares like Ford Parkway and Cretin Avenue. These routes provide direct links to Interstate 35E and U.S. Highway 10, facilitating travel from across the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Saint Paul Downtown Airport (STP) is approximately a 15-minute drive away, while Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is about 25-30 minutes distant, depending on traffic. Public transportation options are available, with bus routes serving the main roads near the park, offering a viable alternative for those not driving. Smart arrival tactics involve factoring in potential weekend recreational traffic or local events, particularly during peak winter months. Aiming to arrive 15-20 minutes before scheduled ice times is advisable to allow for parking, gear up, and locker room access without rush.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink
The primary cluster of hotels serving Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink can be found in the Highland Park area itself, with additional options extending toward downtown Saint Paul and the surrounding South Metro suburbs. For teams and families, the closest hotels offer convenience for early morning or late evening practices, putting you within a 5-10 minute drive of the rink. Driving is generally the most practical way to access the rink and most lodging options, though rideshare services are readily available. Demand for accommodations tends to spike around significant local tournaments or league championships, especially during the winter hockey and figure skating seasons. Booking well in advance is a key strategy, as popular hotel blocks can fill up quickly. Utilizing map filters to search for hotels within a 3-5 mile radius of the rink can help identify convenient locations that balance proximity with potential cost savings. Consider hotels near major transit arteries for easier access to the rink and wider city exploration.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Nearest airport: MSP (25-30 min drive), STP (15 min drive).
- Parking: Arrive 15-20 minutes early; utilize designated rink parking areas.
- Walkable hangout: Merriman Park trails and playgrounds offer casual outdoor options.
- Rainy-day fallback: Explore the Science Museum of Minnesota or the Minnesota Children's Museum in downtown St. Paul.
- Regroup zone: The rink's lobby or nearby cafes for post-game discussions and snacks.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Plan to arrive at Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink at least 20-25 minutes before your scheduled ice time. This buffer is crucial for navigating parking, locating your assigned locker room, and ensuring your team has adequate time to get geared up. Locker rooms are typically assigned based on booking schedules, so confirm your room number upon arrival. Utilize the available space for a thorough on-ice warm-up, focusing on drills that build intensity gradually. Familiarize players with the rink's dimensions and any specific safety protocols before hitting the ice for the main session.
Mid-Day Regroup
For longer tournament days or between league games, strategic regrouping is essential. The rink lobby can serve as a central meeting point, though it can become congested. Consider stepping outside to the adjacent Merriman Park for some fresh air and a change of scenery, weather permitting. Many families pack coolers with snacks and drinks to manage hunger during extended breaks, finding benches or picnic areas within the park for a more relaxed atmosphere. Staying hydrated and fueling properly are key to maintaining energy levels throughout the day.
Wrap-Up & Departure
As your ice time concludes, allow ample time for de-gearing, showering if desired, and gathering your team's equipment. Locker rooms should be cleared promptly to accommodate the next group. Post-game discussions can take place either in the locker room or in the lobby area. For departure, be mindful of other teams exiting and potential congestion in the parking lot. Rideshare pick-up points are generally located near the main entrance. A quick debrief and acknowledgment of effort can be a positive way to end the day.
Things to Do Near Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink
Walkable
Merriman Park
Merriman Park offers a natural extension to your visit to the recreation center, providing much-needed outdoor space for athletes and families alike. With paved walking paths that loop through wooded areas and open fields, it's an ideal spot for a post-game stroll or a warm-up before hitting the ice. Playground facilities are also available, offering a place for younger siblings to burn energy while older players are occupied. The park's open spaces can be used for casual stretching or team cool-downs, weather permitting, providing a peaceful retreat adjacent to the bustling rink.
Merriman Park · On siteHighland Park Golf Course
Located just a short distance from the rink, Highland Park Golf Course presents a scenic landscape that's enjoyable even outside of golf season. While the course itself is a prominent feature, the surrounding parkland offers pleasant walking trails and open areas. In the warmer months, it’s a beautiful place for a relaxed walk or to enjoy the greenery. During colder periods, it remains a peaceful part of the neighborhood, offering a different perspective on Saint Paul's park system and a quiet escape from the indoor intensity of the rink.
Highland Park Golf Course · 0.7 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Highland Village
Highland Village · 1.2 miMinnesota Zoo
The Minnesota Zoo offers a fantastic diversion for families and teams looking to experience something beyond the ice. Spanning over 485 acres, it features diverse habitats showcasing animals from around the world, including a focus on northern species. It’s an engaging outing that provides educational value and a chance to see exotic wildlife in naturalistic settings. Allow at least a few hours to explore the various trails and exhibits, making it an ideal activity for a day off from competition or for younger siblings accompanying a team.
Minnesota Zoo · 5.5 miBeyond the Event: Beyond these immediate attractions, the greater Saint Paul area offers numerous cultural and recreational sites. Consider exploring the historic architecture of downtown Saint Paul, visiting the various museums, or enjoying the extensive network of parks and trails that the city is known for. The proximity to major highways makes it easy to access other parts of the Twin Cities, expanding your options for entertainment and exploration.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink
Inside & Adjacent
Rink Concessions
While not a full-service restaurant, the concession stand at Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink provides essential fuel for athletes and spectators. Typically offering classic arena fare such as hot dogs, pizza slices, snacks, and a variety of beverages, it's a convenient spot for a quick bite during breaks or after a game. It’s the most direct food option, ideal for grabbing something easy without leaving the facility, and often a go-to for parents and players needing a convenient refuel.
Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink · On siteCafes in Highland Village
Within the Highland Village shopping center, you'll find several casual cafes and eateries perfect for a quick lunch or a coffee break. These spots offer a relaxed atmosphere for teams to gather or families to grab a bite during longer visits to the rink. Options often include delis, coffee shops, and fast-casual restaurants, providing variety to satisfy different tastes. It's a convenient stop for refueling with accessible parking and a comfortable setting for a brief respite from the rink's energy.
Highland Village · 1.2 miNearby Gathering Spots
Fireside Pizza
Fireside Pizza is a popular neighborhood spot known for its delicious pies and welcoming atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for team dinners or family meals. They offer a variety of specialty pizzas, salads, and appetizers, catering to a range of preferences. It’s a comfortable and casual setting where groups can relax, discuss the game, and enjoy a satisfying meal. The proximity to Merriman Park makes it an easy option for a post-game celebration or a substantial lunch during tournament days.
Highland Park Neighborhood · 1.0 miThe Lexington
For a slightly more elevated dining experience, The Lexington offers classic American cuisine in a historic and refined setting. Known for its traditional ambiance and quality dishes, it provides a great option for a team looking to celebrate a successful event or for families seeking a memorable meal. While a short drive from the rink, its reputation and elegant atmosphere make it a worthwhile destination for a special occasion. Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.
Downtown Saint Paul · 3.5 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Holman's Table
Holman's Table offers a unique dining experience situated at the St. Paul Downtown Airport, combining aviation history with modern gastronomy. This spot provides a visually interesting environment with views of the airfield, making it a memorable choice for a team outing or a special family dinner. The menu features contemporary American dishes with a focus on quality ingredients. Its location offers a distinct atmosphere that sets it apart from typical neighborhood restaurants, providing a touch of class.
St. Paul Downtown Airport · 5.2 miW.A. Frost and Company
W.A. Frost and Company is renowned for its charming ambiance, especially its beautiful patio garden, and its upscale American menu. Located in a historic building in the Cathedral Hill neighborhood, it offers an intimate and sophisticated dining experience. This is an ideal choice for groups or families celebrating a significant achievement or seeking a refined culinary outing. Its reputation for excellent food and service, coupled with its distinctive setting, makes it a standout option in Saint Paul.
Cathedral Hill Neighborhood · 3.9 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Expect heavier traffic around Merriman Park on weekend mornings and during youth hockey tournaments.
- The Highland Village shopping center can get busy on weekday evenings; plan accordingly for errands.
- Saint Paul weather can be unpredictable; always check forecasts and dress in layers for outdoor activities.
- Parking at the rink is generally ample but can fill up during peak game times; consider carpooling.
- Many local restaurants offer family deals or team menus, especially during sports seasons; inquire beforehand.
Weather & Seasons at Merriman Park Recreation Center Rink
- Winter: Winters in Saint Paul are typically cold with significant snowfall. Temperatures frequently dip below freezing, and icy conditions are common. Visitors should pack heavy parkas, insulated boots, hats, gloves, and scarves. Indoor activities are popular, and if spending time outdoors around the rink, layers are essential for warmth and comfort, especially during early morning or late evening ice sessions.
- Spring & early summer: Spring brings a transition from cold to mild weather, with temperatures gradually warming. Rain showers are frequent, so carrying a light, waterproof jacket is advisable. As summer approaches, temperatures become warmer and more humid. Comfortable, breathable clothing is recommended, but evenings can still be cool, so a light sweater or jacket is useful for outdoor breaks.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer is characterized by warm to hot and humid conditions. Daytime temperatures often reach into the 80s Fahrenheit. Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially if engaging in outdoor activities. Indoor venues and air-conditioned spaces offer welcome respite from the heat during the day.
- Fall season: Fall offers crisp and cool weather, with temperatures gradually decreasing as the season progresses. Early fall can be pleasant for outdoor activities, but by late fall, warmer layers become necessary. Jackets, long sleeves, and pants are standard attire. This season is excellent for enjoying the park's scenery before the onset of winter's deep freeze.
- Rain & snow: Rain is common in spring and can occur throughout the summer and fall. Snowfall is a hallmark of winter in Saint Paul. Visitors should always check the forecast before traveling and pack appropriate rain gear or waterproof, insulated clothing depending on the season. Wet conditions can affect travel times and outdoor comfort, so flexibility is key.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: Various youth hockey and figure skating clubs
- Neighborhood: Highland Park
- Nearest airport: MSP (25-30 min), STP (15 min)
- Parking: On-site lot, can fill during peak events
- Walkable district: Merriman Park grounds, Highland Village shopping
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Highland Village (Supervalu, CVS Pharmacy)
- Pharmacy: CVS Pharmacy at Highland Village
- Urgent care: Allina Health Urgent Care (various locations within 15-20 min drive)
- Downtime: Merriman Park trails, local cafes, Highland Village shops
- Pro tip: Check local rink schedules for public skate times if your team needs extra ice.

