The best deals on hotels near Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink in Baxter, 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 Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink
51 Art Ward Dr Baxter, MN 56401
Baymont by Wyndham Baxter / Brainerd Area
In Baxter, Baymont by Wyndham Baxter / Brainerd Area's easy-commute location to Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink lets guests commute in a way that feels natural and easy.
Maps, brochure racks, and neighborhood tips sit by Baymont reception, shortening conversations and first errands after room assignment. Every guest room features a comfortable chair near the window for reading, while blackout drapes keep afternoon glare controlled and calm. Outdoor pool terraces place loungers, shade, and rinse showers, turning open hours into relaxed breaks when weather cooperates.
With an indoor pool, a fitness room, and a computer kiosk plus Wi-Fi and signage, recovery, connection, and wayfinding stay aligned.
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Baxter Brainerd Area
Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink is a quick drive from Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Baxter Brainerd Area, a layout that ensures the trip there is always low-stress.
Days Inn posts restroom wayfinding just off the lobby, minimizing elevator trips during arrival windows or pre-departure waits. Every guest room provides a desk, task lamp, and desk-height outlets beside Wi-Fi, making quick emails, maps, and confirmations straightforward. Courtyards add planters, shade sails, and sturdy chairs, turning open time into a straightforward outdoor pause near main entries.
EV charging at select sites with parking, clear wayfinding, and Wi-Fi keeps evening returns and early exits efficient and simple.
Super 8 by Wyndham Baxter / Brainerd Area
The benefit of being a short drive from Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink renders Super 8 by Wyndham Baxter / Brainerd Area into a great starting point for any visit.
Super 8 breakfast areas visible from reception help travelers start mornings smoothly, creating routines that remain dependable daily. All guest rooms feature plush bedding, blackout curtains, and HVAC systems, creating reliable comfort and rest for all types of travelers. Business corners featuring computers, internet, and printers provide clarity and convenience for guests completing small tasks.
Pet-friendly rooms, breakfast service, and Wi-Fi pair with laundry and parking, ensuring comfort for both family and solo travelers.
Rapid River Lodge
For travelers with a car-centric itinerary, Rapid River Lodge is a simple drive from Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink, making it a smart anchor for exploring the area.
Rapid River Lodge often highlights compact front-desk setups, parking close to entry points, and vending machines to support quick check-in. Guest rooms may highlight plush bedding, curated décor, and climate control, ensuring comfort and balance across overnight routines. Facilities may include modest lobbies, vending machines, and compact seating zones that create practical balance for budget travelers.
A visit may highlight Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, vending access, and parking, reinforcing clear and functional travel routines daily.
AmericInn by Wyndham Baxter Brainerd
Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink is a quick drive from AmericInn by Wyndham Baxter Brainerd, a detail that makes the hotel a practical and well-positioned base.
Upon arrival, Wyndham’s staffed desks maintain a direct line of approach, giving first-time guests clear next steps from door to counter. Every guest room offers a Keurig coffee maker, mini-fridge, and microwave in select types, helping guests maintain food and beverage routines. Rooftop terraces feature planter beds, seating clusters, and evening lighting, creating a social vantage point for small gatherings or downtime.
High-speed internet, breakfast options, business printing, pool access with loungers, laundry service, and shuttle routes support tight itineraries.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Baxter, MN
From Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Baxter, MN, Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink is a quick drive, a convenience that simplifies the logistics of the entire visit.
Radisson aligns menu boards, market counters, and reception in one view so guests can choose breakfast or a light plate with minimal decision overhead. Guest rooms include plush bedding, blackout drapes, a movable work desk, and bedside outlets to support focused work and restful sleep. Indoor pools combine lap lanes, lounge seating, and towel stations, offering a dependable spot to cool off and reset between plans and meetings.
With on-site dining, breakfasts, free internet, meetings, fitness, and EV charging, the mix suits varied guest needs.
The Lodge at Brainerd Lakes Trademark Collection by Wyndham
This useful drive to Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink from The Lodge at Brainerd Lakes Trademark Collection by Wyndham is a central feature, as it frames a stay built around efficiency.
Lobby spaces within the Trademark Collection are often flexible, accommodating solo travelers needing quiet and groups seeking social connection. Guest rooms are designed with a mix of comfortable seating options, from armchairs to small sofas, creating spaces for reading or relaxing. Indoor pools provide a year-round option for recreation, allowing for a relaxing swim regardless of the season or outside weather conditions.
With on-site catering, elegant ballrooms, a fitness center, and a full-service bar, hosting memorable events is made simple for planners.
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG
From the moment you arrive at Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG, Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink is a quick drive, making for an easy start.
Holiday Inn Express lobbies emphasize simple design and clear reception zones, creating reliable orientation points for arrivals. All guest rooms feature in-room coffee makers, mini-fridges, and outlets, simplifying routines by keeping essentials within reach. Business centers offering computers, printers, and internet access help travelers maintain productivity conveniently during visits.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and pools join with fitness and laundry, supporting guests with clarity across all property stays.
Quality Inn & Suites Brainerd
For a visit that balances a key destination with broader travel, Quality Inn & Suites Brainerd keeps Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink an uncomplicated drive.
Quality Inn often positions breakfast or coffee taps within sight of reception to let guests plan mornings while check-in completes efficiently. Every guest room features a flat-screen TV with streaming and reliable Wi-Fi, combining entertainment with easy connectivity for calls. Club lounges, where available, layer quiet seating, light refreshments, and work nooks that let small groups plan or unwind privately.
Meeting suites with AV support and catering partners provide practical on-site solutions so events avoid unexpected vendor gaps or delays.
Pelican Lakes Motel
This practical function as a base is a key feature of Pelican Lakes Motel, since it makes the stay both simple and enjoyable.
Pelican Lakes Motel typically presents modest reception, vending access, and exterior entries that help maintain no-frills practicality daily. Guest rooms typically feature modest bedding, Wi-Fi, and compact bathrooms, sustaining clarity and ease for traveling guests. Facilities may highlight vending access, modest lobbies, and laundry rooms that reflect the functional focus of budget accommodations.
A visit may highlight Wi-Fi, exterior parking, vending corners, and coin laundry, reflecting simple and reliable guest routines daily.
Commander Motel
Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink is within driving reach from Commander Motel, a convenience that makes the hotel a sensible and well-placed choice.
Arrivals at Commander Motel may highlight vending corners, compact desk service, and exterior parking that reinforce daily guest routines. Rooms may include microwaves, compact fridges, and Wi-Fi, reinforcing practical routines across short-term budget accommodations. Public areas may present compact breakfast spaces, vending machines, and guest laundries that help maintain consistent routines for visitors.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, pet-friendly policies, vending access, and parking, helping reinforce straightforward clarity during visits.
Eastwood Inn
The hotel provides a practical base for reaching Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink, ensuring it accessible with a straightforward drive.
At Eastwood Inn, arrivals may present straightforward reception, basic lobby seating, and nearby parking aimed at travel consistency. Accommodations often include hardwood accents, compact seating, and rainfall showers, providing a modern yet approachable guest stay. Shared spaces typically provide vending areas, breakfast corners, and laundry access that maintain straightforward routines on the road.
Guests may enjoy Wi-Fi, guest laundry, breakfast areas, and vending corners, sustaining reliable convenience throughout budget-friendly stays.
AmericInn by Wyndham Pequot Lakes / Jenkins
The easy regional drive from AmericInn by Wyndham Pequot Lakes / Jenkins to Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink in Baxter ensures guests a simple and reliable way to get to their destination.
Guests find quiet conversation easy in Wyndham lobby lounge zones with mixed seating, as plans are confirmed without crowding the desk. All suites include additional seating, work surfaces, and premium mattress toppers, making multi-guest stays more comfortable and productive. Fitness lounges present guided classes, on-demand trainers, and stretching mats, enabling structured workouts even during tight itineraries.
Wi-Fi, mobile check-in, meeting rooms, in-room coffee makers, EV charging, and family suites ensure both work and family routines remain intact.
Ruttgers Bay Lake Resort
As a practical base, Ruttgers Bay Lake Resort keeps Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink accessible for visiting the area, enhancing the visit.
At Ruttgers Bay Lake Resort, arrivals may highlight cozy seating, boutique details, and staff offering tailored service for each guest. Accommodations typically provide unique décor, plush bedding, and boutique bathrooms for a personalized guest impression. Facilities may showcase intimate bars, curated co-working corners, and design-forward lounges that emphasize boutique orientation.
A visit often offers complimentary Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, family dining, and bike rentals, sustaining practicality across guest needs.
Country Inn Deerwood
Guests at Country Inn Deerwood can appreciate it as a sensible base, a defining feature of a well-located stay.
Guests at Country Inn Deerwood may encounter efficient desk service, vending access, and on-site parking that emphasize predictable arrivals. Rooms may feature premium linens, blackout curtains, and in-room coffee, supporting both rest and routine refreshment during travel. Facilities often feature modest breakfast spaces, vending access, and compact lobbies that help support guest convenience each day.
A stay may include Wi-Fi, guest laundry, modest breakfast, and vending access, helping sustain straightforward routines across visits.
Pine Peaks Lodge & Suites
The benefit of using Pine Peaks Lodge & Suites as a practical base turns it into a great starting point before the main experience.
Pine Peaks Lodge & Suites typically offers practical front desk help, complimentary parking, and compact lobby space that supports budget arrivals. Each guest room typically offers ergonomic seating, compact desks, and Wi-Fi, helping guests maintain productivity while on the road. Public areas may highlight vending machines, laundry facilities, and compact seating that reinforce simple routines for traveling guests.
Accommodations often highlight Wi-Fi, breakfast counters, vending machines, and laundry rooms, reinforcing daily clarity for travelers.
StayInn Little Falls
Reaching Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink from StayInn Little Falls is an easy regional drive, a feature that contributes to a well-planned and easy stay.
Arrivals at StayInn Little Falls may highlight self-serve coffee, modest seating, and parking access designed for guest convenience and ease. Guest rooms often include climate control, hardwood finishes, and plush bedding, creating a consistent and comfortable nightly setting. Shared spaces may include modest lobbies, vending corners, and breakfast areas that sustain clarity and comfort for overnight stays.
A visit may feature Wi-Fi, laundry access, continental breakfast, and parking, reflecting the consistent focus of budget accommodations.
AmericInn by Wyndham Little Falls
The hotel provides a practical base for reaching Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink, keeping it accessible with a straightforward drive.
Where offered at select hotels, Wyndham’s mobile check-in shortens the desk stop, letting frequent travelers begin their stay with fewer delays. Standard guest rooms include ample closet space, ironing tools, and a secure safe, allowing guests to unpack efficiently and safeguard valuables. Business meeting rooms offer catering options, soundproofing, and flexible tables, so event teams focus on content instead of setup details.
Complimentary internet, breakfast buffets, fitness centers, on-site dining, secure parking, and dry cleaning let travelers focus on the trip.
Grand Casino Mille Lacs
As a sensible base, Grand Casino Mille Lacs keeps Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink accessible, enhancing the visit.
Guests at Grand Casino Mille Lacs may find artisanal touches, intimate décor, and complimentary coffee or tea for a welcoming boutique start. Rooms may include artisanal interiors, curated décor, and premium linens that underscore boutique-style sophistication. Amenities typically highlight eclectic interiors, small dining venues, and cocktail lounges that frame a boutique-style impression.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, boutique breakfast, laundry service, and pet allowances, providing boutique ease for longer guest stays.
Eddys Resort
From Eddys Resort, the easy regional drive to Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink is a core principle of accessibility straightforward that defines the beginning of the stay.
Eddys Resort often provides arrivals with boutique reception, curated décor, and complimentary refreshments for visiting guests. Guest rooms often highlight stylish décor, curated minibars, and premium bedding that create a polished boutique guest retreat. Shared spaces may present curated cafés, cozy lounges, and art installations that emphasize a boutique-oriented guest environment.
A stay may highlight complimentary Wi-Fi, yoga mats, laundry facilities, and artisanal snacks, supporting wellness and balance.
Book as a group & pay separately.
Lowest Group Rate Guaranteed.
Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink Local Area Guide
Welcome to the Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink, a hub for hockey, figure skating, and community events in Baxter, Minnesota. This guide is designed for players, coaches, families, and visiting teams looking for practical information to maximize their time and enjoyment around the rink. Discover essential details about arrival, on-site logistics, local amenities, dining options, and what to expect throughout the season. Plan your visit with confidence, ensuring a smooth and memorable experience for everyone involved.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink (Baxter, MN)
The Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink is situated in Baxter, a city that forms part of the Brainerd Lakes Area in central Minnesota. Located just off Art Ward Drive, the rink is part of a community recreational complex that includes other sports facilities, making it a focal point for local athletics. Access to Baxter and the surrounding Brainerd area is primarily facilitated by State Highways 210 and 371, which connect to larger regional routes. The nearest major airport serving this area is the Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport (BRD), located approximately 10-15 miles southwest of the rink, offering limited commercial flights. For most travelers, flying into Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is more common, though this is a significant drive of about 2.5 to 3 hours. Driving is the most practical way to reach the rink, with ample parking available directly on-site. Public transportation options are minimal in this region, so personal vehicles or pre-arranged rideshare services are the typical modes of transit. Smart arrival tactics often involve consulting local traffic reports, especially during peak winter months or during significant local events, to navigate any minor congestion around Art Ward Drive.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink
Accommodation options are clustered in the nearby city of Brainerd and throughout the wider Brainerd Lakes Area, with some motels and independent hotels located closer to Baxter. Many visitors choose lodging in Brainerd, about a 10-15 minute drive from the rink, which offers a broader selection of hotels and amenities. For teams and families attending tournaments, staying within this central Brainerd corridor provides convenient access to both the rink and various dining and shopping opportunities. While the immediate vicinity of the rink is primarily recreational, a short drive opens up areas with hotel clusters. Demand for accommodations can spike significantly during regional hockey tournaments and figure skating competitions, so booking well in advance is highly recommended, particularly for weekend events. Utilizing hotel map filters to search for lodging closest to the highway exits leading to Baxter can help identify convenient options. Flexible travel dates, if possible, can sometimes lead to better rates outside of major event weekends.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport is about a 15-minute drive away.
- Arrive 30 minutes early for parking and team check-in procedures.
- Central Baxter offers casual dining and retail for downtime.
- Indoor shopping centers in Brainerd provide alternatives on inclement days.
- On-site rink lobby or designated team areas for regrouping.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Plan to arrive at the Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink at least 30 to 45 minutes before your scheduled practice or game time. This buffer allows ample time to find parking, unload gear, and proceed to the locker room. Familiarize yourself and your team with the rink layout upon arrival to locate restrooms, water fountains, and the main seating areas. Utilize the designated warm-up spaces or hallways for pre-game stretches and team preparations, ensuring you respect other groups using the facility.
Mid-Day Regroup
Between games or during longer breaks, utilize the rink’s common areas for team regrouping and rest. Pack portable seating or blankets if outdoor space is available and weather permits for families to relax. The lobby area often serves as a central gathering point, but be mindful of general public traffic flow. Staying hydrated and fueling up with snacks brought from home or purchased from concessions can help maintain energy levels throughout a busy day.
Wrap-Up & Departure
After your final game or practice, allow time for thorough equipment packing and locker room cleanup. Coordinate your departure with other teams to avoid congestion in parking areas, especially during busy tournament weekends. Ensure all personal belongings are accounted for before leaving the rink premises. If rideshare services are used, designate a clear, safe pickup spot away from active traffic lanes to ensure a smooth exit for your group.
Things to Do Near Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink
Walkable
Baxter Municipal Athletic Complex
Adjacent to the ice rink, this athletic complex offers a broader scope of community sports facilities. Depending on the season and scheduled events, you might find outdoor baseball fields, soccer pitches, or multi-purpose courts in use. It's a great place for younger siblings to burn energy or for teams to enjoy some fresh air and casual activity between ice sessions. The grounds are generally open for walking and light recreation when not in official use.
51 Art Ward Dr · On siteBaxter City Park
Just a short walk from the rink, Baxter City Park provides a pleasant green space for relaxation and light activity. It features walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds, making it an ideal spot for families to unwind or for athletes to stretch their legs in a more relaxed setting. The park offers a peaceful environment away from the direct activity of the sports complex.
302 NE Mill Ave · 0.6 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Northland Arboretum
The Northland Arboretum offers miles of scenic hiking and cross-country ski trails through native Minnesota woodlands and prairie. It’s a beautiful natural escape perfect for a post-game cool-down walk or an alternative activity for those seeking outdoor exploration. Trail maps are available, and different loops cater to various fitness levels, providing a refreshing change of pace.
1425 Discovery Ln NE · 3.0 miGregory Park
Located in Brainerd, Gregory Park is a well-maintained city park featuring extensive walking trails, picnic facilities, and recreational spaces. It's a convenient destination for families looking for outdoor leisure after an ice session. The park's accessibility and amenities make it suitable for a casual stroll, a family picnic, or simply enjoying the Minnesota landscape.
400 S 5th St, Brainerd · 4.2 miBeyond the Event: For those seeking further entertainment or shopping, the city of Brainerd is a short drive away and offers numerous options. You can explore larger retail centers, catch a movie, or visit additional parks. The Brainerd Lakes Area also boasts numerous lakes for fishing and boating during warmer months, providing a wide array of recreational activities beyond the ice rink.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink
Inside & Adjacent
Rink Concessions
Operating during scheduled events and practices, the rink concessions offer standard arena fare to fuel athletes and spectators. Expect options like hot dogs, pizza slices, popcorn, candy, and beverages. It’s a convenient stop for quick bites without leaving the facility, perfect for satisfying immediate cravings between games or during a brief intermission.
51 Art Ward Dr · On siteSportsman's Lodge
Located a short drive from the rink, Sportsman's Lodge is a local establishment often frequented by sports teams and families. It provides a casual dining atmosphere with a menu featuring pub-style food, burgers, sandwiches, and some local favorites. It's a practical choice for a post-game meal in a relaxed setting.
16030 S 270th Ave · 1.2 miNearby Gathering Spots
Dickey's Barbecue Pit
For groups looking for a hearty meal, Dickey's Barbecue Pit offers classic slow-smoked meats, sides, and family meal deals. It’s a good option for catering to varied tastes within a team and provides a relaxed, counter-service environment. The proximity to the rink makes it a convenient stop for feeding a hungry crew.
14350 S US Hwy 371, Baxter · 2.8 miChipotle Mexican Grill
Chipotle provides a customizable and generally well-liked option for burritos, bowls, tacos, and salads. Its popularity with diverse groups makes it a reliable choice for accommodating different dietary preferences within a team or family. The fast-casual setup is efficient for quick meals during tournament weekends.
14350 S US Hwy 371, Baxter · 2.8 miLocal & Elevated Picks
P.K. O'Malley's
P.K. O'Malley's in Brainerd offers a lively atmosphere with a menu that includes a wide range of American pub fare, including burgers, appetizers, and seafood. It's a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking for a casual dining experience with a good selection of drinks. The energetic ambiance can be a fun way to celebrate a team's victory or unwind after a competition.
505 S 6th St, Brainerd · 4.0 miErnie's On Gull
Situated on the scenic Gull Lake, Ernie's On Gull offers a more upscale dining experience with beautiful lake views. While a bit further out, it provides a chance to enjoy fresh seafood, steaks, and signature dishes in a pleasant setting. It's an excellent choice for a celebratory team dinner or for families wanting a memorable meal beyond the immediate rink vicinity.
1717 Gull Lake Dr, Brainerd · 8.5 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Traffic on Hwy 210 can be heavy during summer weekends and around major Brainerd Lakes events.
- Most local restaurants observe standard Minnesota dining hours, with kitchens often closing by 9 or 10 PM.
- Winter driving conditions require vigilance; always allow extra travel time for ice and snow.
- Consider pre-ordering larger team meals from local delis or pizza places to save time.
- Weeknights at the rink are generally less crowded than weekend tournament days.
Weather & Seasons at Oscar Kristofferson ICE Rink
- Winter: Winter in Baxter is cold, with average temperatures often below freezing. Expect snow and ice, making road conditions potentially slick; warm layers, waterproof outerwear, hats, and gloves are essential for anyone spending time outdoors. Indoor activities are often preferred, and the ice rink provides a cozy, controlled environment for skating.
- Spring & early summer: Spring brings a transition from winter to warmer weather, though frost and even late snow are possible early on. Temperatures gradually rise, and outdoor recreation becomes more appealing. Rain showers are common, so packing a light, waterproof jacket is advisable for days spent traveling to and from the rink.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer is typically warm to hot, with average temperatures in the comfortable to warm range, though heat waves can occur. Humidity can be a factor. This season is ideal for outdoor activities around the lakes, but ensure hydration is a priority. Indoor venues like the rink offer a cool respite from the summer heat.
- Fall season: Fall offers crisp air and vibrant foliage, with temperatures gradually cooling from pleasant to chilly as the season progresses. Layered clothing is key, as mornings can be cool and afternoons milder. It’s a beautiful time for enjoying the outdoors before winter fully sets in, and the rink's indoor environment becomes increasingly attractive.
- Rain & snow: Rain is common during spring and can occur in summer and fall, sometimes leading to localized flooding or slick conditions. Snow is a significant factor from late fall through early spring, with potential for heavy accumulation that can impact travel. Always check local forecasts and road conditions before heading to the rink during periods of inclement weather.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: Baxter High School Hockey / Local Youth Leagues
- Neighborhood: Central Baxter / Recreational Complex
- Nearest airport: Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport (BRD)
- Parking: Ample on-site lots
- Walkable district: Limited, primarily park and athletic facilities
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Nearby supermarkets in Baxter
- Pharmacy: Options in Baxter and Brainerd
- Urgent care: Clinics in Brainerd
- Downtime: Local parks, Brainerd shopping centers
- Pro tip: Pack extra dry clothing layers for cold weather and rink humidity.

