The best deals on hotels near Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink in Cottage Grove, 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 Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink
6327 Highland Hills Blvd Cottage Grove, MN
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Cottage Grove, MN
The benefit of having Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink a direct run renders Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Cottage Grove, MN into a great starting point for any visit.
Upon arrival, Radisson places communal tables and charging hubs near check-in so you can top up devices and sort plans before heading upstairs. Each guest room places a mini-fridge, coffee kit, and reachable outlets adjacent to the desk, so quick breakfasts and snacks happen without fuss. Breakfast buffets feature hot items, fruit displays, and beverage counters, so guests can choose speed or a fuller sit-down morning start.
Between on-site dining, free internet, fitness access, pool seating, meetings, and laundry, travelers find both refreshment and practical support.
enVision Hotel St. Paul South
Guests at enVision Hotel St. Paul South can leverage Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink being an easy drive, a perk that adds a relaxing touch to the stay.
At enVision Hotel St. Paul South, arrivals often include curated lobby décor, friendly greetings, and small-scale concierge support for guests. Accommodations may provide artisanal décor, unique furnishings, and curated minibars that emphasize boutique orientation. Amenities may include co-working spaces, curated lounges, and farm-to-table dining for a polished boutique guest environment.
Accommodations may provide Wi-Fi, self-serve markets, yoga mats, and laundry support, aligning boutique routines with guest comfort.
AmericInn by Wyndham Inver Grove Heights Minneapolis
The uncomplicated drive from AmericInn by Wyndham Inver Grove Heights Minneapolis to Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink in Cottage Grove means guests have a pleasant option for their daily travel.
Upon arrival, Wyndham’s staffed desks maintain a direct line of approach, giving first-time guests clear next steps from door to counter. All guest rooms balance workspace, ergonomic seating, and bright task lighting, enabling focused work sessions without hunting for outlets. Conference halls feature tiered seating, projection screens, and wired connections, making large gatherings straightforward to stage and run.
Free Wi-Fi, flexible meeting rooms, fitness facilities, pool loungers, convenient parking, and express checkout help guests stick to tight schedules.
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Inver Grove Heights / Minneap
Because Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Inver Grove Heights / Minneap keeps Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink within easy reach, guests can opt to begin their day with a simple commute.
With mobile check-in and digital key at select sites, Microtel shortens the curb-to-key sequence so tired guests reach rooms sooner. Every guest room includes an HDTV opposite the bed with channels, making unwind time easy after long highway miles each night. The lobby organizes seating clusters with outlets and side tables by reception, enabling companions to regroup while messages and plans finalize.
With Wi-Fi, breakfast, and a business center, plus EV charging at participating hotels, travel steps stay simple, connected, and on time.
Holiday Inn Express St. Paul S - Inver Grove Hgts by IHG
Within Cottage Grove, Holiday Inn Express St. Paul S - Inver Grove Hgts by IHG keeps Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink an uncomplicated drive, which provides a simple way to get around.
Concierge-style reception at Holiday Inn Express ensures orientation clarity, offering travelers confidence in their arrival process. Each guest room features ergonomic desks, ample lighting, and strong Wi-Fi, letting professionals remain productive on the road. Breakfast areas serving buffets, cereals, and hot drinks provide reliable day-start clarity that supports smooth morning routines.
Free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and fitness centers combine with indoor pools and business spaces, giving guests balanced routines.
Hampton Inn Minneapolis / St. Paul-Woodbury
From Hampton Inn Minneapolis / St. Paul-Woodbury, the low-effort trip to Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink removes travel complications to keep things simple before the stay unfolds.
Digital check-in services in Hampton Inn receptions streamline arrivals for loyalty members, offering dependable recognition and speed. All guest rooms include premium bath products, spacious vanities, and bright mirrors, supporting routines that help guests start refreshed. Fitness rooms with treadmills, resistance machines, and mats create reliable wellness spaces, letting guests maintain balance away from home.
Complimentary breakfast, business centers, self-parking, Wi-Fi, and laundry access keep travel straightforward and consistently reliable.
Extended Stay America Suites - St. Paul - Woodbury
In Cottage Grove, Extended Stay America Suites - St. Paul - Woodbury has a accessible location relative to Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink, letting guests easily transition from their room to the event.
Extended Stay America's grab-and-go breakfast is designed for speed, allowing early risers to get on the road without delay. Every guest room in the hotel features complimentary Wi-Fi and a flat-screen television for connectivity and in-room entertainment. A simple fitness room at many properties offers a convenient way to stay in shape without the expense or hassle of an outside gym membership.
The promise of a full kitchen, free Wi-Fi, a pet-friendly policy, and a grab-and-go breakfast creates a welcoming and worry-free environment.
Coratel Inn and Suites by Jasper Saint Paul Minneapolis Inver Grove Heights.
This easy drive to Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink helps Coratel Inn and Suites by Jasper Saint Paul Minneapolis Inver Grove Heights. Guests feel like they are part of the local Cottage Grove scene without a major commute.
Guests at Coratel Inn and Suites by Jasper Saint Paul Minneapolis Inver Grove Heights. May encounter simple reception counters, vending machines, and parking designed to minimize arrival stress. Each guest room often highlights plush bedding, hardwood floors, and Wi-Fi, creating a reliable and comfortable base for overnight stays. Facilities often showcase compact lobbies, vending areas, and coin-operated laundry that emphasize functional routines for guests.
A stay often highlights Wi-Fi, vending access, modest breakfast, and guest laundries, reinforcing practical balance during daily travel.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham St. Paul-Woodbury
From La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham St. Paul-Woodbury, Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink is a simple cross-town drive, a benefit that keeps the day's main event easily reachable.
Reception areas at La Quinta are staffed 24/7, reinforcing dependable service and orientation clarity across all property visits. Guest rooms emphasize ergonomic desks, Wi-Fi, and comfortable chairs, letting professionals stay effective and balanced easily. Lobby lounges combining communal tables, bright décor, and soft chairs deliver orientation clarity and casual social connection.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and self-parking connect with fitness facilities and pools, creating balance during each stay.
Sheraton St. Paul Woodbury Hotel
This useful drive to Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink from Sheraton St. Paul Woodbury Hotel is a central feature, since it promotes a relaxed and manageable itinerary.
Sheraton situates its bar and lounge near reception, creating a hub that encourages social connection and casual conversation. Suites incorporate marble details, curated artwork, and robes, reinforcing luxury signals that refresh and relax guests daily. Guests in the indoor pool encounter loungers, fresh towels, and bright lighting, spaces that deliver reliable leisure and recharge.
With self-parking, EV chargers, restaurants, and Club Lounges, Sheraton maintains flexible and dependable services across properties.
Super 8 Saint Paul
In Cottage Grove, Super 8 Saint Paul is situated a simple cross-town drive from Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink, a detail that allows for a simple daily commute.
Lobby furniture in Super 8 emphasizes function over form, giving travelers dependable comfort while waiting or regrouping together. All guest rooms contain comfortable bedding, blackout curtains, and HVAC systems, making restful sleep dependable at every property. Business corners offering computers, printers, and Wi-Fi access support professionals with reliable tools for urgent work tasks.
Connectivity with Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and vending areas aligns with fitness centers and parking, simplifying daily needs.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Woodbury, MN
At Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Woodbury, MN, Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink is within easy reach for event attendees, enhancing the visit.
With visible grab-and-go cases and a lobby café, Radisson helps late arrivals secure snacks and drinks without wandering or added delay. All suites combine a seating area, extra surfaces, and a sofa bed, permitting relaxed shared time and simple mealtime arrangements in-room. Small boardrooms offer video-conferencing gear, dedicated tables, and privacy treatments, helping remote calls run smoothly without interruption.
With free Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, meetings, a gym, pool access, and laundry, stays remain straightforward and dependable.
Residence Inn by Marriott St. Paul Woodbury
Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink is an easy regional drive away from Residence Inn by Marriott St. Paul Woodbury, a feature that makes the hotel a sensible and well-placed choice.
Outdoor social areas like barbecues or fire pits at Residence Inn extend the lobby’s communal feel into scenic, local-flavored spaces. Guest rooms feature smart televisions, streaming access, and sofa seating, ensuring evenings offer both entertainment and easy relaxation. Fitness facilities with rowing machines, cardio equipment, and 24-hour access ensure wellness practices remain consistent throughout travel.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, fitness centers, outdoor pools, business lounges, and breakfast service provide dependable balance during each stay.
Courtyard by Marriott St. Paul Woodbury
Guests at Courtyard by Marriott St. Paul Woodbury can depend on it as a sensible base to set a relaxed and convenient tone for their stay.
Courtyard greets travelers with turndown-level details like lobby coffee and infused water, reinforcing small courtesies daily. Suites incorporate modern bathrooms, rainfall showers, and premium toiletries, providing guests with wellness cues that refresh daily. Guests at the indoor pool encounter loungers, towels, and calm lighting, reliable details that create spaces for relaxation and recharge.
Amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, indoor pools, breakfast service, and business lounges provide comfort and daily reliability.
DoubleTree by Hilton St. Paul East
Upon arrival at DoubleTree by Hilton St. Paul East, Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink is a simple commute to get oriented, simplifying your visit.
Complimentary coffee alongside the cookie at DoubleTree strengthens the sense of care by pairing two signature comforts at arrival. Each guest room includes ergonomic chairs and work surfaces, making it easy for travelers to complete tasks or attend virtual meetings. Bars showcase signature cocktails and small plates, offering travelers evening recharge and a social hub within the property.
Breakfast buffet, coffee stations, Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, and business services align essentials, supporting consistent productivity and clarity.
LivINN Hotel St. Paul – I-94 – East 3M Area
This sensible location allows LivINN Hotel St. Paul – I-94 – East 3M Area to serve as a calm starting point before the easy regional drive to Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink.
LivINN Hotel St. Paul – I-94 – East 3M Area typically offers a compact front desk, complimentary parking, and modest lobby space aligned with routine travel needs. Guest rooms typically include blackout curtains, climate control, and streaming access, ensuring both privacy and entertainment options. Shared spaces may include breakfast rooms, vending machines, and guest laundries that reinforce clarity and convenience during visits.
Accommodations may present Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, vending machines, and laundry support, helping sustain reliable routines daily.
Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites St. Paul NE - Lake Elmo by IHG
As a practical base, Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites St. Paul NE - Lake Elmo by IHG is a central element that supports a flexible and relaxed visit.
Seating clusters in Holiday Inn & Suites lobbies include charging hubs, giving travelers practical spaces to regroup and recharge. All guest rooms contain flat-screen TVs, sofa seating, and USB ports, giving travelers comfortable setups for downtime or work. Bars with table seating, cocktails, and ambient lighting act as relaxed social anchors where colleagues or families can gather.
Pet accommodations, complimentary breakfast, and Wi-Fi pair with laundry and pools, easing routines during longer-term travel.
Hampton Inn & Suites St. Paul Oakdale / Woodbury
For a stay that relies on regional driving, Hampton Inn & Suites St. Paul Oakdale / Woodbury offers a convenient base for the easy drive to Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink.
Sofa clusters adjacent to reception at Hampton Inn provide regrouping areas, letting families pause comfortably before moving forward. Guest rooms provide smart HDTVs, streaming access, and ergonomic chairs, ensuring entertainment ease while supporting comfortable leisure. Lobby lounges with coffee service, sofa clusters, and regional décor foster relaxed atmospheres that encourage guest connection.
Fitness studios, complimentary Wi-Fi, hot breakfast bags, Pavilion Pantry counters, and indoor pools support dependable daily routines.
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites St. Paul-Woodbury by IHG
The hotel's location is a strategic choice, acting as a convenient base with Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink within driving reach.
Holiday Inn Express coffee and tea service signals care and consistency, giving travelers refreshing touches immediately upon entry. All guest rooms contain flat-screen TVs, sofa seating, and charging hubs, creating versatile spaces for relaxation and utility. Fitness centers outfitted with treadmills, weights, and stretching mats let travelers maintain personal health goals consistently.
Pet-friendly rooms, reliable Wi-Fi, and hot breakfast pair with self-parking and laundry, simplifying family and extended-stay needs.
Extended Stay America Suites Minneapolis Woodbury
Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink is a simple commute from Extended Stay America Suites Minneapolis Woodbury, a location that offers a simple way to get there.
A consistent and friendly reception is a hallmark of Extended Stay America, where staff are trained to be helpful and efficient. The full kitchen with a large refrigerator empowers hotel guests to manage their budget and diet by cooking within their own suite. The grab-and-go breakfast is a consistent and complimentary perk, offering a simple coffee and muffin to start the day off right.
With guest laundry on-site, a swimming pool for relaxation, and a full kitchen for meals, the hotel supports a comfortable, independent trip.
Motel 6 Saint Paul MN - I-94
For travelers with a wide-ranging itinerary, Motel 6 Saint Paul MN - I-94 is a convenient base, keeping Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink an easy regional drive away.
Motel 6 maintains bright, clear reception lighting, helping travelers focus on documents and details during late-evening or early arrivals. All guest rooms feature climate systems and blackout drapes, ensuring personalized comfort whether guests arrive in summer or winter. Morning coffee setups provide stirrers, lids, and napkins, keeping the process tidy so guests move quickly from counter to departure.
Between free coffee, pet policies, pools, and Wi-Fi, properties remain welcoming and practical for families, solos, and road travelers alike.
Omni Viking Lakes Hotel
Guests at Omni Viking Lakes Hotel can appreciate it as a sensible base for visiting Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink and the wider region.
Where lounge access applies, Omni directs eligible members to quiet seating and refreshments, a selective courtesy marked members-only. Each guest room keeps coffee or tea makers beside bottled water and glassware, smoothing mornings before departures or appointments. Spas offer massage menus, facials, and salon services, giving guests structured reset paths without stepping beyond the hotel footprint.
With breakfast buffets, rooftop pools, Wi-Fi, and spa menus, itineraries blend energy, rest, and planning into straightforward daily flow.
Comfort Inn Saint Paul East
Within the region, Comfort Inn Saint Paul East acts as a convenient base, a fact that lets the hotel to feel both convenient and calm.
Comfort Inn arrival zones are designed to accommodate steady foot traffic with bench seating and open circulation that ease group flow. Standard guest rooms supply a luggage bench, clear dresser surface, and accessible closet space to keep packing and unpacking orderly and fast. Fitness centers combine cardio machines and weights with fresh towels and water stations, supporting routine maintenance before or after days out.
From laundry, mini-fridges, free breakfast, meeting space, Wi-Fi, and on-site dining, extended stays keep routines intact and workdays productive.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Eagan, MN
From Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Eagan, MN, Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink is within driving reach, a choice that makes the entire area feel more accessible.
Radisson arranges lounge seating, tall tables, and outlet-rich counters near the desk to support quick meetups and short work bursts on arrival. Every guest room provides climate controls, a luggage bench, and clear vanity lighting, keeping grooming, unpacking, and comfort routine-driven. Bar and lounge areas present high-top seating, small plates, and evening drink service, offering a low-effort unwind after packed travel days.
From free internet and breakfast to a business center, grab-and-go market, parking, and pet services, travel stays low-friction and usable.
Book as a group & pay separately.
Lowest Group Rate Guaranteed.
Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink Local Area Guide
Welcome to Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink, a beloved community gathering spot in Cottage Grove, Minnesota. This guide is designed for players, families, and team coordinators looking to make the most of their ice time and explore the local area. Discover essential information on getting to the rink, convenient nearby amenities, and local attractions to enhance your visit. Plan your schedule seamlessly with insights into park access, dining options, and what to expect throughout the seasons.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink (Cottage Grove, MN)
Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink is situated in Cottage Grove, Minnesota, a southern suburb of the Twin Cities metropolitan area. The park benefits from its location within a well-established residential and recreational zone, offering good accessibility via major roadways. Highland Hills Boulevard is the primary access point, directly connecting to major arterials like Imagery Avenue and Wood Knoll Drive, which in turn link to I-94 and US-61. Traveling from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) typically takes around 30-40 minutes via US-10 E and I-494 E, depending on traffic conditions. Public transportation options are limited in this suburban area, making personal vehicles or rideshares the most practical modes of transport for most visitors. Parking is available directly at the park, though it can become congested during peak usage times, especially on weekends and during organized events. Arriving at least 15-20 minutes before scheduled ice time is advisable, particularly during the busy winter months, to secure parking and navigate any on-site logistics smoothly.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink
The area surrounding Peter Thompson Park is primarily residential, with limited hotel clusters immediately adjacent to the park itself. The closest accommodations are typically found a short drive away in Cottage Grove or the neighboring communities of Woodbury and Hastings. These areas offer a range of hotel options, from budget-friendly motels to mid-range family hotels, catering to visitors attending tournaments or recreational events. Many families and teams opt to stay in these nearby towns for easier access to amenities and dining. Demand for lodging can increase around local youth hockey tournaments or regional sporting events held at the park or nearby facilities. When booking, look for hotels in the Woodbury area for a slightly wider selection and proximity to various shopping and dining centers. For those traveling in groups, booking accommodations well in advance is recommended, especially during the prime ice-skating season, to ensure availability and better rates. Utilizing map filters to search within a 5-10 mile radius will effectively identify suitable lodging options.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) is a 30-40 minute drive away.
- Arrive 15-20 minutes early for weekend or event day parking and access.
- Grab a casual bite at a nearby pizza place or cafe for quick refueling.
- Consider indoor dining or a local brewery if inclement weather impacts outdoor plans.
- The park itself is a great spot to regroup between games or activities.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Plan to arrive at Peter Thompson Park about 30 minutes before your scheduled ice time, especially on busy weekends. This buffer allows ample time for finding parking, unloading gear, and locating the outdoor rink. familiarize yourself with the rink layout and any designated bench areas for your team. Use the surrounding park space for pre-ice warm-ups, dynamic stretching, or team strategy discussions. Ensure all players have their equipment on and are ready to take the ice promptly at the scheduled time.
Mid-Day Regroup
For teams with games spread throughout the day or families enjoying extended park visits, the park itself offers a convenient central point. Utilize the park benches and open areas for quick team huddles, snack breaks, or to simply relax between activities. Many visitors bring their own lawn chairs or blankets to create a comfortable base camp. This is an ideal time to grab a quick lunch from a nearby casual eatery or have a packed meal that can be enjoyed in the park's open spaces.
Wrap-Up & Departure
After your final ice session or activity concludes, take a few minutes for a proper cool-down and equipment pack-up. Ensure all personal belongings and team gear are gathered before departing the rink area. If you're meeting up with others, the park is an excellent place for a final team photo or a brief recap of the day. Factor in potential traffic delays when leaving, especially during prime evening hours or immediately following popular events, and have a plan for post-game meals or commutes home.
Things to Do Near Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink
Walkable
Peter Thompson Park
This expansive community park is the primary destination and offers much more than just the outdoor rink. During warmer months, visitors can enjoy paved walking trails, open green spaces perfect for picnics, and playgrounds for younger children. The park also features basketball courts and other recreational facilities, making it a versatile spot for active families. It's an ideal place for players to stretch and get some fresh air before or after hitting the ice, or for non-skaters to find other forms of recreation while games are underway.
Cottage Grove, MN · On siteCottage Grove Ravine Regional Park
Just a short drive or a longer walk from the rink, Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park offers a more natural, immersive outdoor experience. It features rugged terrain, wooded ravines, and hiking trails that provide a scenic escape. The park is known for its peaceful atmosphere and opportunities for wildlife viewing. It’s a great option for a post-skate walk to decompress or for families looking for a different kind of outdoor adventure, especially during seasons when the ice rink isn't active.
Cottage Grove, MN · 1.2 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Carpenter Nature Center
A bit further afield but well worth the short drive, the Carpenter Nature Center provides a fantastic educational and recreational opportunity. It boasts extensive trails, a river overlook, and educational exhibits focused on local flora and fauna. Visitors can explore woodlands, prairies, and the St. Croix River bluff. It’s an excellent destination for nature lovers and families seeking a quieter, more educational outing, particularly appealing during the spring, summer, and fall months.
Hastings, MN · 7.5 miKingswood Golf Course
For golf enthusiasts, Kingswood Golf Course offers a challenging and scenic 18-hole experience. This public course is well-maintained and provides a relaxing yet engaging round of golf. It’s a perfect activity for adults looking for recreation outside of the ice rink, especially during the warmer parts of the year when the outdoor rink is closed. The facility often includes a clubhouse with dining options, making it a good spot for post-game refreshments or a leisurely meal.
Cottage Grove, MN · 4.2 miBeyond the Event: Beyond the immediate park surroundings, the wider Cottage Grove and Woodbury areas provide a variety of shopping centers, movie theaters, and additional parks. Exploring these adjacent communities offers more options for entertainment and relaxation during your stay. Consider a drive along the St. Croix River for scenic views, especially in Hastings, or explore the extensive retail and dining options available in Woodbury.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink
Inside & Adjacent
Park Concessions (Seasonal/Event Dependent)
During operating hours and specific events, limited concessions may be available directly at Peter Thompson Park. These typically include basic snacks, hot beverages like hot chocolate, and sometimes pre-packaged items. It's advisable to check the park's event schedule or call ahead to confirm availability, as concessions are often dependent on organized tournaments or specific programming for the outdoor rink. This option is convenient for a quick bite without leaving the park premises.
Cottage Grove, MN · On sitePizza Hut
Located a short drive from the park, Pizza Hut offers a convenient and familiar option for casual group dining. They provide a range of pizzas, pastas, and side dishes, making it a suitable choice for feeding teams or families after a skating session. Take-out and delivery options are generally available, allowing for flexibility in dining plans. It’s a reliable choice for a quick, crowd-pleasing meal that can easily accommodate groups of varying sizes.
Cottage Grove, MN · 1.8 miNearby Gathering Spots
Cobblestone Brewhouse
Cobblestone Brewhouse offers a relaxed atmosphere with a focus on craft beers and pub-style food. It's a popular spot for casual meals, appetizers, and a selection of local brews. The menu typically features burgers, sandwiches, and other hearty fare, making it a good choice for groups looking to unwind after a day of outdoor activities. The ambiance is usually lively and welcoming, suitable for both families and adult groups.
Cottage Grove, MN · 3.1 miBaja Sol
For those seeking Mexican flavors, Baja Sol in nearby Woodbury offers a vibrant setting and a diverse menu of tacos, burritos, and other traditional dishes. It's a family-friendly establishment known for its fresh ingredients and flavorful options. The energetic atmosphere makes it a fun choice for groups, and the extensive menu ensures there's something to satisfy most preferences. It's a good option for a more substantial meal after a morning or afternoon at the rink.
Woodbury, MN · 5.5 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Mucci's Italian
Mucci's Italian provides a more refined, yet still accessible, Italian dining experience. Known for its classic pasta dishes, pizzas, and other Italian specialties, it's a great option for a celebratory meal or when you're looking for something a bit more special than typical fast-casual fare. The restaurant generally offers a warm, inviting ambiance suitable for families and gatherings looking for quality comfort food. Reservations might be recommended during peak times.
Woodbury, MN · 5.2 miDrafts Sports Bar & Grill
Drafts Sports Bar & Grill is an ideal spot for groups wanting a casual dining experience with a sports-centric atmosphere. Featuring a wide array of beers on tap and a menu filled with pub favorites like wings, burgers, and appetizers, it's a good place to catch a game or simply enjoy a relaxed meal. The environment is generally energetic and accommodating for larger groups, making it a practical choice for post-event gatherings.
Woodbury, MN · 5.9 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Parking at the outdoor rink can fill up quickly on weekend afternoons; consider arriving earlier or during off-peak times.
- Cottage Grove experiences colder winters than the immediate Twin Cities; dress warmly and allow extra time for travel and arrival.
- While the rink is the main draw, the surrounding park offers walking paths that are pleasant in spring and fall.
- Check local event listings for any community festivals or tournaments happening at Peter Thompson Park, which can affect crowd levels.
- Weeknight ice times are often less crowded than weekend slots, offering a more relaxed skating experience.
Weather & Seasons at Peter Thompson Park Outdoor Rink
- Winter: Expect cold temperatures, with daytime highs often hovering around 20°F (-7°C) and nighttime lows dipping below 10°F (-12°C). Warm layers, insulated outerwear, hats, and gloves are essential for enjoying the outdoor rink. Conditions can be slippery, so waterproof footwear is recommended for navigating the park area. Be prepared for potential snow, which may require clearing ice before use.
- Spring & early summer: Temperatures begin to warm significantly, ranging from the 40s°F (4-9°C) in early spring to the 70s°F (21-26°C) by early summer. The ice rink is typically closed during these months. Expect potential rain showers, making waterproof jackets useful. This is a pleasant time for walking the park trails, with blooming nature and increasing daylight hours.
- Mid-summer: Highs typically range from the mid-70s to mid-80s°F (24-29°C), with occasional heatwaves pushing temperatures higher. Humidity can be noticeable. Light, breathable clothing is recommended. While the outdoor rink is inactive, the park offers shade and open spaces for outdoor activities. Pack water bottles to stay hydrated.
- Fall season: Temperatures gradually cool from pleasant 60s°F (15-20°C) in September to chilly 30s°F (0-4°C) by late November. Fall colors are beautiful in the park. Layers are key, with lighter jackets transitioning to warmer, wind-resistant outerwear as the season progresses. This period often signals the park’s transition towards winter operations.
- Rain & snow: Rain is common throughout spring and fall, sometimes with heavy downpours. Winter brings snowfall, with accumulations varying but often significant enough to require clearing. Snowfall can pause outdoor activities temporarily but also enhances the winter wonderland feel. Always check local forecasts before traveling, especially during transitional seasons or winter weather events.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: N/A (Community Rink)
- Neighborhood: Cottage Grove
- Nearest airport: Minneapolis-St. Paul International (MSP)
- Parking: On-site lot, can fill during peak times
- Walkable district: Park amenities and limited residential streets
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Nearby supermarkets in Cottage Grove
- Pharmacy: Several options within a short drive
- Urgent care: Located in neighboring Woodbury or Hastings
- Downtime: Relax in the park, visit local cafes, or explore nature areas
- Pro tip: Pack a thermos of hot chocolate for colder skating days.

