The best deals on hotels near Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink in Coon Rapids, 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 Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink
1008 Northdale Blvd Coon Rapids, MN
Holiday Inn Express Minneapolis / Coon Rapids/Blaine by IHG
This quick drive to Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink helps Holiday Inn Express Minneapolis / Coon Rapids/Blaine by IHG guests get more connected to the Coon Rapids area.
Lobby seating areas in Holiday Inn Express include long communal desks and lounge chairs, offering guests both comfort and utility. Guest rooms provide flat-screen HDTVs, bedside USB ports, and ergonomic chairs, blending comfort with functional convenience. Pools with loungers, towels, and umbrellas provide balanced spaces that accommodate family activities and quiet relaxation alike.
Meeting rooms, self-parking, and fitness centers connect with Wi-Fi and breakfast, providing clarity and convenience every day.
Best Western Plus Blaine at the National Sports Center
This quick car trip to Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink from Best Western Plus Blaine at the National Sports Center lets guests enjoy a bit of Coon Rapids before their event.
Best Western summarizes essentials—Wi-Fi access, breakfast timing, and local tips—so guests leave reception ready to navigate the first hour. Each suite supports fast Wi-Fi, HDMI-friendly TVs, and plentiful outlets, so presentations or media sharing stay smooth without setup delays. Fire pits or patio clusters at some properties invite brief evening meetups, adding warmth to quick conversations before rest.
With co-working nooks, printers, Wi-Fi, and small meeting pods, short work blocks proceed smoothly while travel remains compact and on site.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Coon Rapids, MN
This convenient drive to Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink from Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Coon Rapids, MN is a defining element, as it ensures the stay is built on simplicity.
Radisson concentrates a coffee station and market near the lobby core, giving guests an instant reset point and predictable first-hour choices. Standard guest rooms offer a stable desk, task lighting, and multiple outlets, making it simple to run calls or finish work without leaving the room. Flexible commons include a market counter, seating banks, and charging hubs, helping quick transitions from travel into local plans and work.
With meetings, business services, breakfasts, a gym, parking, and market, trip logistics stay quick and predictable.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Minneapolis North / Blaine
Because Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Minneapolis North / Blaine keeps Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink a simple drive, guests can simply transition to the next part of their day.
Fairfield Inn situates a visible coffee counter and market case in the lobby core so late arrivals can grab a bite and settle without delay. Suites feature plush bedding, blackout drapes, and adjustable climate control, supporting rest and recovery that prepare travelers for busy days. Lobby areas highlight communal tables, modern seating, and bright décor, helping families and colleagues regroup comfortably before activities.
Guests enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, indoor pools, breakfast with fruit and pastries, and self-parking, ensuring dependable balance daily.
Quality Inn near Northtown Mall & National Sports Center
When your visit to Coon Rapids is centered on Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink, Quality Inn near Northtown Mall & National Sports Center's location an easy drive away allows for a seamless daily plan.
Quality Inn arrival signage and staff presence help guests identify elevators, parking, and breakfast areas quickly, reducing backtracking. Guest rooms combine layered lighting, ergonomic desk chairs, and broad desktops to let evening work and reading coexist comfortably. Co-working tables pair task lighting with power strips and modest privacy screens to support focused work sprints in public spaces.
Pools and fitness centers often operate extended hours, letting guests fit workouts or swims around flights, meetings, and family plans.
Baymont by Wyndham Coon Rapids
When visiting Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink in Coon Rapids, the drive from Baymont by Wyndham Coon Rapids is a simple drive, allowing for a quick return to the hotel.
Baymont commonly maintains a 24/7 front desk so late arrivals stay simple and questions resolve without off-site calls or delays. Each guest room includes a mini-fridge, microwave, and coffee maker, keeping snacks warm and drinks cold without a trip downstairs. Meeting rooms accept movable seating, AV hookups, and sign-in tables, keeping brief sessions and trainings straightforward to stage.
Free Wi-Fi, an HDTV area, and coffee join with breakfast and a fitness room, balancing downtime, starts, and movement under one roof.
Wingate by Wyndham Coon Rapids
In Coon Rapids, Wingate by Wyndham Coon Rapids's placement a simple drive from Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink is a key asset for visitors with vehicles.
Communal seating at Wingate by Wyndham supports casual meetings and orientation, helping groups or individuals connect easily. Suites add multiple televisions, sofa seating, and expanded layouts, creating versatile accommodations for families or groups. Meeting facilities offering projection screens, lighting controls, and flexible seating layouts keep professional events running smoothly.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking join with fitness facilities and laundry, ensuring convenience across all property stays.
AmericInn by Wyndham Coon Rapids
In Coon Rapids, AmericInn by Wyndham Coon Rapids is situated an easy drive from Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink, a spot that gives value to the guest experience.
Guests find quiet conversation easy in Wyndham lobby lounge zones with mixed seating, as plans are confirmed without crowding the desk. Each guest room supplies a smart TV with streaming apps, bedside outlets, and blackout shades, helping travelers unwind and stay connected. Fitness studios provide free weights, cardio rows, and mirrored walls, supporting focused training sessions while on the road.
Free Wi-Fi, conference rooms with AV, breakfast service, covered parking, pool access, and Grubhub delivery simplify everyday guest needs.
AmericInn by Wyndham Ham Lake
When staying in Coon Rapids, the uncomplicated drive from AmericInn by Wyndham Ham Lake to Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink is a simple drive, allowing for a low-stress start to the day.
Where offered at select hotels, Wyndham’s mobile check-in shortens the desk stop, letting frequent travelers begin their stay with fewer delays. Guest rooms come with clean, hypoallergenic cleaning protocols, plush pillows, and clear luggage areas, helping sensitive guests rest easier. Lobby markets combine snacks, travel essentials, and refrigerated drinks, making unexpected needs easy to solve without detouring offsite.
Free high-speed Wi-Fi, mobile check-in, hot breakfast, business printers, on-site parking, and laundry keep stays simple and efficient.
Blaine Town Inn & Suites
In Coon Rapids, Blaine Town Inn & Suites's location an easy drive from Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink lets guests move easily before their stay begins.
At Blaine Town Inn & Suites, arrivals may highlight an efficient desk, vending machines, and accessible parking to support predictable travel rhythm. Each guest room often features hardwood floors, blackout curtains, and in-room coffee, giving travelers privacy and daily convenience. Shared spaces typically provide vending areas, breakfast corners, and laundry access that maintain straightforward routines on the road.
Accommodations may feature Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, vending machines, and guest laundries, reinforcing consistent routines across stays.
Hampton Inn Brooklyn Park
The hotel's spot a direct run to Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink gives Hampton Inn Brooklyn Park guests choices in how they plan their local travel.
Sofa clusters adjacent to reception at Hampton Inn provide regrouping areas, letting families pause comfortably before moving forward. All guest rooms include rainfall showers, vanities with lighting, and premium toiletries, delivering refreshment that feels comfortable. Lobby areas with community tables, sofas, and natural light create hubs that support relaxed interaction and group coordination easily.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast buffets, meeting rooms, outdoor pools, and self-parking provide dependable support for varied travel styles.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Ramsey
This accessible drive to Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink allows Home2 Suites by Hilton Ramsey to offer a convenient and well-integrated lodging experience.
Guests entering Home2 Suites see vibrant décor, modular seating, and community tables, all cues that foster relaxed social moments. Each guest room provides ergonomic desks, Wi-Fi access, and charging hubs, enabling productivity and focus during business travel. In the laundry room, washers, dryers, and folding areas simplify routines, ensuring extended-stay guests feel supported daily.
Amenities like fitness centers, laundry service, Wi-Fi, and breakfast simplify extended stays, giving guests balance and dependability.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Brooklyn Park Minneapolis
For guests in the Coon Rapids area, Home2 Suites by Hilton Brooklyn Park Minneapolis is a convenient base, a spot that supports an efficient and enjoyable itinerary.
After check-in, Home2 Suites offers infused water in lobby seating zones, giving travelers refreshment and comfort before moving on. Every suite contains sofa seating, dining tables, and large TVs, giving guests flexible areas for relaxation or informal work daily. The fitness center with ellipticals, bikes, and resistance equipment helps travelers keep wellness balanced while away from home.
Guests enjoy outdoor patios, grills, self-parking, and laundry, finding flexible amenities that help maintain daily family routines.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Shoreview-Mounds View, MN
From Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Shoreview-Mounds View, MN, the easy regional drive to Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink is a core benefit to stay on schedule before the day begins.
With clustered seating and accessible pathways, Radisson makes it straightforward for families or groups to unload luggage and find nearby seating quickly. Every suite supplies extra linens, a sofa bed, and separate seating so small groups can balance remote work, meals, and evening rest without friction. Poolside seating areas provide loungers, umbrellas, and side tables, helping guests relax between activities and keep daily plans on track.
For families, pool access, kitchenettes in some rooms, laundry, breakfast, and Wi-Fi make multi-night stays easier to manage.
Budget Host Inn Fridley
The hotel's spot as a practical base gives Budget Host Inn Fridley guests a easy option for their regional commute.
Guests at Budget Host Inn Fridley may encounter a no-frills reception, modest lobby seating, and on-site parking for straightforward transitions. Guest rooms typically include plush bedding, streaming-enabled TVs, and climate control, providing both rest and entertainment options. Facilities often feature modest breakfast spaces, vending access, and compact lobbies that help support guest convenience each day.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, vending access, compact breakfast corners, and parking, sustaining reliable convenience for budget travelers.
Comfort Suites Ramsey
In the Coon Rapids region, Comfort Suites Ramsey's role as a practical base lets guests move easily to Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink before their stay.
Comfort Suites arrival cues—lighting, signage, staff presence, and seating—combine to create a tidy, dependable first impression on arrival. Suites typically present a sofa bed and lounge seating with a roomy surface, helping families or colleagues spread out without crowding beds. Co-working tables pair task lighting with power strips and comfortable chairs, supporting short focused work sessions in public spaces.
Between lap pools, family swim areas, and poolside loungers, water options suit both fitness routines and casual downtime needs.
Comfort Inn Brooklyn Center
Within the region, Comfort Inn Brooklyn Center functions as a practical base, a detail that emphasizes its strategic placement.
At check-in Comfort Inn positions coffee and breakfast points near reception so guests find immediate refreshment without extra walking. Guest rooms pair supportive mattresses, blackout curtains, and adjustable climate controls, promoting restorative sleep after travel and events. Fitness centers combine cardio machines and weights with fresh towels and water stations, supporting routine maintenance before or after days out.
Between business centers, printers, meeting rooms, reliable Wi-Fi, and event parking, last-minute prep and handouts happen smoothly.
Motel 6 Brooklyn Center MN - Minneapolis
When regional plans include Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink, Motel 6 Brooklyn Center MN - Minneapolis is a sensible base, letting guests arrive relaxed and on schedule.
Lobby layouts at Motel 6 position seating as waiting zones, allowing companions to rest comfortably while others finalize check-in paperwork. Every guest room balances bedding, blackout drapery, and climate control, creating conditions that support deep sleep after active days. Vending machines accept coins, bills, or cards at most properties, making access to drinks and packaged food simple for all travelers.
With accessible rooms, vending near reception, Wi-Fi, and parking, amenities align orientation, refreshment, and mobility needs together.
Brooklyn Center Hotel & Conference Center
This practical base helps Brooklyn Center Hotel & Conference Center guests get grounded in the local Coon Rapids area while keeping Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink accessible.
Guests at Brooklyn Center Hotel & Conference Center may be welcomed with professional doorman assistance, elegant interiors, and complimentary infused water. Accommodations typically include upscale décor, premium linens, and spa-style bathrooms that may feature refined luxury finishes. Property amenities often provide elegant dining rooms, wellness facilities, and polished lounges for a sophisticated guest impression.
Guests may enjoy elegant dining, wellness areas, valet support, and Wi-Fi, aligning indulgent experiences with dependable convenience.
Baymont by Wyndham Brooklyn Center
Guests at Baymont by Wyndham Brooklyn Center can rely on it as a practical base to set a relaxed and convenient tone for their stay.
Where a small market is present, Baymont organizes coolers, microwavables, and utensils near seating for efficient one-stop grabs. Every guest room places a flat-screen HDTV with HDMI near seating, making streaming and quick news checks straightforward each evening. The lobby aligns desk, maps, and elevator ranges across a short route, shrinking first-walk learning curves during peak arrivals.
With a market for packaged meals, microwaves, and utensils plus Wi-Fi and seating, casual dining comes together in minutes.
Suburban Studios Minneapolis Brooklyn Center
Because Suburban Studios Minneapolis Brooklyn Center is a convenient base, guests can choose to get to Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink refreshed after an easy drive.
Suburban Studios Minneapolis Brooklyn Center typically features practical front-desk service, self-serve beverages, and parking options aimed at easy, reliable arrivals. Accommodations may highlight compact layouts, ergonomic seating, and Wi-Fi, supporting comfort and productivity for each guest routine. Public areas may highlight vending machines, laundry facilities, and compact seating that reinforce simple routines for traveling guests.
A visit often presents Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, vending access, and laundry rooms, reinforcing daily convenience for budget travelers.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Brooklyn Park - Brooklyn Center, MN
For a trip to the area, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Brooklyn Park - Brooklyn Center, MN's location as a convenient base is a core part of its appeal to travelers.
Radisson orients bar seating adjacent to reception to give a low-effort unwind spot for solo guests who want a quick drink after travel. Guest rooms round out essentials with a flat-screen TV, clear storage, and practical bedside surfaces so routines feel familiar and easy. Meeting foyers include registration tables, coat racks, and informal seating clusters, making pre-event flow and guest arrivals simple and organized.
Offering Wi-Fi, an on-site restaurant, meetings, a gym, laundry, and pet amenities, properties blend comfort with practical utility.
Super 8 by Wyndham Brooklyn Center / MPLS
A key planning advantage of Super 8 by Wyndham Brooklyn Center / MPLS in Coon Rapids is its role as a sensible base with Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink within driving reach.
Murals and bold design elements in Super 8 lobbies reflect the brand’s modern refresh, creating memorable yet functional first looks. All guest rooms contain comfortable bedding, blackout curtains, and HVAC systems, making restful sleep dependable at every property. Vending and market setups providing cold drinks, snacks, and packaged items add clarity and convenience for daily traveler needs.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast buffets, and pet accommodations join with vending and parking, keeping travel routines stress-free.
Travelodge by Wyndham Brooklyn Center
Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink is an easy regional drive from Travelodge by Wyndham Brooklyn Center, a layout that ensures the pre-event journey is always a calm one.
Travelodge greets guests with complimentary coffee service, offering a consistent courtesy that helps travelers settle after arrival. Guest rooms emphasize branded toiletries, showers, and linens, refreshing daily routines with clarity and predictable comfort. Pools arranged with loungers, towel service, and shaded seating create spaces for rest and recreation across diverse travel needs.
Breakfast spaces, Wi-Fi, and vending combine with laundry and parking, offering clarity and convenience for all traveling groups.
Book as a group & pay separately.
Lowest Group Rate Guaranteed.
Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink Local Area Guide
Welcome to Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink, a beloved community spot in Coon Rapids, Minnesota, that brings people together for winter fun. This guide is designed for players, families, and groups looking to make the most of their ice time, from seamless arrival to post-skate relaxation. Discover practical tips for navigating the park, understanding facility access, and finding nearby amenities to enhance your visit, whether you're here for a scheduled game, a public skate, or just a day on the ice.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink (Coon Rapids, MN)
Nestled in the vibrant community of Coon Rapids, Minnesota, Sand Creek Park serves as a central hub for outdoor recreation. The park is easily accessible via Northdale Boulevard, a main thoroughfare connecting to larger regional routes like MN-10. For those arriving by air, Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is approximately a 30-40 minute drive northeast, depending on traffic. Public transportation options are somewhat limited within the immediate vicinity of the park, making car travel or rideshares the most convenient methods for many visitors. Parking is available directly at the park, with designated areas that can accommodate a steady flow of visitors, especially during peak hours. Early arrival is always recommended, particularly for scheduled events or popular public skate times, to ensure optimal parking and to avoid any potential congestion as the park fills up. Familiarize yourself with the park's layout upon arrival to streamline your experience.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink
Sand Creek Park is surrounded by residential neighborhoods, offering a local feel with convenient access to essential services. While direct hotel accommodations are not immediately adjacent to the park itself, a cluster of hotels can be found a short 5-10 minute drive away, primarily along the Coon Rapids commercial corridors. For families and teams planning extended stays or weekend tournaments, booking accommodations in Coon Rapids or neighboring communities like Blaine or Andover is a common strategy. These areas provide a range of hotel options to suit different budgets. Demand for lodging typically increases during winter months when the outdoor rink is active and local youth hockey or figure skating events are scheduled. To secure the best rates and availability, booking well in advance is highly recommended, especially if your visit coincides with a known community event or holiday period. Utilize map filters to identify hotels with amenities suitable for athletes, such as easy parking and proximity to dining options.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport is about 30-40 minutes away by car, depending on traffic conditions.
- Arrive 15-20 minutes early for scheduled skates to secure good parking and prepare.
- Grab a casual bite or coffee at a nearby cafe in Coon Rapids for a relaxed outing.
- Enjoy indoor dining options or visit a local brewery in Blaine or Andover on cooler days.
- The park's warming house serves as a convenient central spot for regrouping after skating.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Plan to arrive at Sand Creek Park approximately 20-30 minutes before your scheduled ice time. This allows ample time to find parking, especially if the lot is busy, and to get your gear ready. Familiarize yourself with the warming house entrance and its amenities, such as benches and space to change. Take advantage of the period before your skate to get accustomed to the ice conditions and the rink's dimensions for effective warm-up drills. Ensure all participants have their necessary equipment checked and adjusted before stepping onto the ice.
Mid-Day Regroup
For longer visits or between game sessions, the warming house is an ideal spot for your group to rest and refuel. Utilize the designated areas for snacks and drinks, keeping in mind any park policies regarding outside food or coolers. This downtime is crucial for maintaining energy levels and team morale. Discuss strategies, review performance, or simply relax before the next ice session. Staying hydrated and taking short breaks can significantly impact endurance and focus during extended periods of activity.
Wrap-Up & Departure
As your ice time concludes, take a few minutes to efficiently gather your belongings from the warming house. Ensure no personal items are left behind and that the space is left tidy for the next group. Allow a buffer for exiting the parking lot, as it may experience some congestion immediately following popular skate times or events. Consider a brief, casual team debrief or treat at a nearby casual dining spot to cap off the day, fostering camaraderie beyond the rink.
Things to Do Near Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink
Walkable
Sand Creek Park
Sand Creek Park is the home of the outdoor rink, offering a full range of winter activities for families and individuals. Beyond the ice, the park features open green spaces that are perfect for walking, sledding when conditions permit, or simply enjoying the crisp winter air. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails are often available, weather permitting, providing additional ways to experience the natural beauty of the area. The park's accessible design makes it easy for visitors of all ages to enjoy a day of outdoor recreation, and the presence of the rink makes it a prime destination during the colder months. Pack some hot chocolate for an extended stay.
1008 Northdale Blvd · On siteCoon Rapids Ice Center
Adjacent to Sand Creek Park, the Coon Rapids Ice Center provides a complementary indoor option for ice sports enthusiasts. This facility boasts multiple indoor rinks, offering a reliable alternative or supplement to the outdoor experience, especially on days with extreme weather. It's a hub for figure skating, hockey leagues, and public skating sessions throughout the year. Visitors can often find scheduled public skate times that differ from the outdoor rink's schedule, providing more flexibility. The center also typically offers skate sharpening and rental services, making it convenient for those who might not have their own equipment or need quick maintenance. Check their schedule for open skate times or to catch a local team's game.
11000 Crooked Lake Blvd NW · 1.5 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Riverdale Park
Riverdale Park offers expansive green space and recreational amenities, serving as another local option for outdoor activities. While it may not have a dedicated ice rink, its walking paths and open areas are popular for winter strolls and family gatherings. The park is well-maintained and provides a quieter atmosphere compared to more active sports complexes, making it suitable for those seeking a peaceful outing. Its proximity to residential areas ensures it's a frequently visited spot by locals. Consider it for a post-skate walk or a change of scenery if the rink is particularly crowded.
13880 Crooked Lake Blvd NW · 3.0 miElm Creek Park Reserve
Elm Creek Park Reserve, a large nature preserve, provides a vast landscape for winter exploration. Visitors can enjoy miles of groomed cross-country ski trails, snowshoeing routes, and scenic hiking paths, offering a more rugged outdoor experience. The park's extensive trail system caters to various skill levels, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced outdoor enthusiasts. Its natural setting provides a refreshing escape and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Check their website for trail conditions and any specific winter programming they might offer, especially for those looking to extend their outdoor adventures beyond the ice.
12400 James Deane Pkwy, Maple Grove, MN · 7.0 miBeyond the Event: Beyond the immediate park boundaries, Coon Rapids and its surrounding communities offer further recreational and leisure activities. Exploring neighboring parks or community centers can provide additional options for exercise and entertainment during your visit. Whether you prefer active sports or a more relaxed nature walk, the area has diverse offerings to suit various interests and weather conditions throughout the winter season.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink
Inside & Adjacent
Sand Creek Park Warming House
While primarily a place to change and rest, the Sand Creek Park warming house often provides basic concessions during peak operational hours. Visitors can typically find hot beverages like coffee and hot chocolate, along with simple snacks such as chips, candy bars, or pre-packaged items. It's a convenient spot for a quick refuel without needing to leave the park premises, perfect for warming up on a chilly day between skating sessions. Availability may vary, so it's wise to bring extra snacks or plan for a meal nearby if you anticipate needing more substantial food options.
1008 Northdale Blvd · On siteCoon Rapids Ice Center Concessions
The Coon Rapids Ice Center features a concession stand that offers a selection of classic arena food and drinks. Visitors can find items such as pizza, hot dogs, nachos, pretzels, and a variety of beverages, including soda and water. It's a convenient option for families and teams using the indoor facilities, providing sustenance during practices, games, or public skating sessions. The concession area is typically open during scheduled events and public skating times, serving as a reliable spot for a quick bite or a warm drink.
11000 Crooked Lake Blvd NW · 1.5 miNearby Gathering Spots
Punch Pizza
Punch Pizza is a popular local spot specializing in fast, authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas cooked in wood-fired ovens. Their menu focuses on fresh ingredients and simple, flavorful combinations, offering a variety of classic and specialty pizzas. It's an excellent choice for a casual and quick meal, suitable for families or groups looking for a satisfying dining experience. The vibrant atmosphere and efficient service make it a convenient stop before or after ice activities. They also offer salads and a selection of drinks to complement the meal.
2021 99th Ave NW, Coon Rapids, MN · 1.8 miHuong Viet Restaurant
Huong Viet offers a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a comfortable setting. Their menu features a wide array of traditional dishes, including flavorful pho, savory noodle bowls, and a variety of rice platters. It’s a great option for those seeking a hearty and flavorful meal, with options that cater to diverse palates. The restaurant's welcoming ambiance makes it suitable for family dinners or group outings. Enjoy a culinary journey with their well-prepared dishes and refreshing beverages, perfect for refueling after a day in the cold.
9872-B E River Rd, Coon Rapids, MN · 2.0 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Invictus Brewing Company
Located just a short drive away in Blaine, Invictus Brewing Company is a local craft brewery offering a selection of unique and well-crafted beers. They often feature a rotating tap list with various styles, from IPAs to stouts, alongside a menu of pub-style food, including burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers. It's a popular spot for adults to relax, socialize, and enjoy a casual meal and drinks after outdoor activities. The brewery often has a lively atmosphere, making it a good destination for a relaxed group outing.
2039 100th Ave NW, Blaine, MN · 3.5 miBrooklynn Park Ale House
The Brooklyn Park Ale House provides a gastropub experience with a diverse menu and a wide array of craft beers on tap. Their offerings range from classic pub fare like burgers and wings to more refined entrees, catering to a variety of tastes. It's a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for groups looking to unwind and enjoy good food and drinks. The ale house is known for its friendly service and its extensive beverage selection, making it a reliable choice for a satisfying meal and a relaxed evening.
8401 University Ave NW, Brooklyn Park, MN · 5.0 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Expect mild congestion on Northdale Blvd during peak evening hours, especially on weeknights.
- Weekend public skate sessions can attract a crowd, so arriving earlier is advised for better ice time.
- Winter weather can impact road conditions; always check local forecasts before heading out.
- The warming house hours can vary seasonally and by day; confirm them before your visit.
- Local youth hockey tournaments often book out the rink, so check the schedule for availability.
Weather & Seasons at Sand Creek Park Outdoor Rink
- Winter: Winter in Coon Rapids is characterized by cold temperatures and the possibility of snow. Visitors should dress in warm layers, including insulated outerwear, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots, suitable for extended periods outdoors. The rink conditions are best maintained in sub-freezing temperatures, so check forecasts for optimal ice quality. Layers are key for comfort as activity levels increase.
- Spring & early summer: As winter transitions to spring, temperatures begin to moderate, though frost and lingering cold can persist into early spring. Outdoor activities may become less about ice skating and more about enjoying the thawing park grounds. Lighter jackets and comfortable walking shoes become more appropriate for outdoor excursions. Snowmelt can sometimes make park trails muddy.
- Mid-summer: Summers in Coon Rapids are typically warm to hot and humid. This season is ideal for enjoying the park's green spaces for picnics, walking, or other non-ice activities. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended, along with sun protection like hats and sunscreen. Hydration is important during warmer months, especially if engaging in physical activities in the park.
- Fall season: Fall brings crisp air and pleasant temperatures, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities in Sand Creek Park before the ice season begins. The changing leaves provide a beautiful backdrop for walks and exploration. Comfortable, layered clothing is ideal, such as a light jacket or sweater. This season offers a comfortable transition from summer heat to winter cold.
- Rain & snow: Both rain and snow are common winter precipitation types in Minnesota. During rainy or snowy periods, rink access may be temporarily suspended for maintenance or safety. Waterproof outer gear, including waterproof boots and jackets, is essential for comfort. If snow is accumulating, it can create slushy conditions on and around the rink, impacting playability and requiring appropriate footwear for traction.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: N/A (Community Ice Rink)
- Neighborhood: Northdale
- Nearest airport: Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)
- Parking: On-site parking lot
- Walkable district: Limited (park-centric)
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Cub Foods (2.0 mi), Walmart (2.2 mi)
- Pharmacy: Walgreens (1.5 mi), CVS Pharmacy (1.8 mi)
- Urgent care: Allina Health Coon Rapids Clinic (2.1 mi)
- Downtime: Sand Creek Park trails, local coffee shops
- Pro tip: Check ice conditions and warming house hours before heading out, especially during variable weather.

