The best deals on hotels near South Valley Park Rink in Inver Grove Heights, 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 South Valley Park Rink
70th St Inver Grove Heights, MN
AmericInn by Wyndham Inver Grove Heights Minneapolis
Guests at AmericInn by Wyndham Inver Grove Heights Minneapolis can appreciate the quick drive to South Valley Park Rink as a defining perk of their well-located stay.
Low-profile décor and practical finishes in Wyndham lobbies foreground function, creating dependable orientation across different locations. Each guest room pairs a work desk and ergonomic chair with high-speed Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV, enabling focused productivity. Fitness centers feature treadmills, free weights, and stretching areas, making it simple for travelers to keep exercise routines on the road.
Breakfast buffets, lobby cafés, Grubhub delivery access, fitness centers, outdoor pools, and valet parking ensure mornings and evenings run smoothly.
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Inver Grove Heights / Minneap
The benefit of a quick drive to South Valley Park Rink renders Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Inver Grove Heights / Minneap into a great hub before the main experience begins.
Microtel arranges seating clusters with outlets near reception, giving companions a spot to regroup while messages or plans finalize. Each guest room includes the DreamWell-style bed, blackout shades, and climate control, supporting deeper sleep when schedules shift early. Meeting suites divide into breakout sections with rolling boards, making workshops or small reunions straightforward to stage.
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
South Valley Park Rink is a quick drive from Holiday Inn Express St. Paul S - Inver Grove Hgts by IHG, a feature that allows for confident planning and easy journeys.
Lobby spaces at Holiday Inn Express mix lounge chairs and work desks, offering guests balance between productivity and relaxation. All guest rooms are fitted with plush beds, blackout curtains, and quiet HVAC systems, creating restful spaces for all travelers. Lobby lounges containing communal desks, soft chairs, and charging hubs foster both orientation and social connection easily.
Complimentary breakfast, fitness centers, and Wi-Fi align with meeting rooms and self-parking, keeping routines straightforward.
Coratel Inn and Suites by Jasper Saint Paul Minneapolis Inver Grove Heights.
This easy drive to South Valley Park Rink enables Coratel Inn and Suites by Jasper Saint Paul Minneapolis Inver Grove Heights. To serve as a calm starting point before a quick trip to the event.
Coratel Inn and Suites by Jasper Saint Paul Minneapolis Inver Grove Heights. Typically offers simple arrivals with front desk service, on-site parking, and vending options for guest accessibility. Accommodations often include hardwood accents, compact seating, and rainfall showers, providing a modern yet approachable guest stay. Public areas often highlight modest lobbies, vending corners, and seating areas that reinforce straightforward guest experiences.
A stay often highlights Wi-Fi, vending areas, modest breakfast, and guest laundries, helping sustain clear routines for daily visitors.
enVision Hotel St. Paul South
The hotel's spot a quick drive from South Valley Park Rink gives enVision Hotel St. Paul South guests a direct way to transition into their day.
Guests at enVision Hotel St. Paul South may encounter cozy lobby areas, curated design, and warm boutique-style reception from attentive staff. Accommodations often showcase eclectic interiors, artisanal details, and curated minibars for a refined boutique impression. Facilities may highlight intimate cocktail bars, curated dining venues, and small libraries for a stylish boutique guest experience.
A stay often presents family-friendly meals, pet allowances, Wi-Fi, and laundry facilities, ensuring balance across varied guest needs.
Omni Viking Lakes Hotel
The hotel's spot a simple drive from South Valley Park Rink gives Omni Viking Lakes Hotel guests a simple way to manage their daily schedule.
Omni routes newcomers via clear wayfinding to elevators and restrooms, keeping families together while keycards and notes are prepared nearby. Each suite extends comfort with chaise seating, ottomans, and reading lights, encouraging relaxed pauses before evening plans restart. Spas offer massage menus, facials, and salon services, giving guests structured reset paths without stepping beyond the hotel footprint.
Between rooftop pools, Wi-Fi, business centers, and breakfast service, teams balance recovery, connection, coordination, and morning focus.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Eagan, MN
Located within easy reach of South Valley Park Rink, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Eagan, MN delivers a convenient base for exploring the area.
With bench seating and luggage racks by the entry, Radisson gives families and groups staging points to drop bags and regroup easily. All suites combine a seating area, extra surfaces, and a sofa bed, permitting relaxed shared time and simple mealtime arrangements in-room. Flexible commons include a market counter, seating banks, and charging hubs, helping quick transitions from travel into local plans and work.
Between a fitness center, a restaurant, meetings, market cases, laundry, and parking, guests balance work, meals, and rest without extra travel.
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Eagan / St. Paul
The benefit of a direct drive to South Valley Park Rink turns Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Eagan / St. Paul into a great starting point before the main on-site experience.
With covered entries at some properties, Microtel keeps the unload step short and limits weather exposure during busy check-in windows. Every guest room places USB outlets by the bedside, plus an HDTV and Wi-Fi, so charging and streaming stay effortless in downtime at any hour. Outdoor patios align seating with string lights or heaters where permitted, encouraging brief fresh-air pauses before heading out again.
Between Wi-Fi, breakfast, guest laundry, and connecting rooms at select sites, families coordinate plans with less back-and-forth.
Extended Stay America Suites Minneapolis Airport Eagan North
South Valley Park Rink is within easy reach of Extended Stay America Suites Minneapolis Airport Eagan North, a setup that offers a simple way to get there before the stay.
A free grab-and-go breakfast is a consistent offering at Extended Stay America, providing a reliable and convenient morning option. Every guest room's kitchen is equipped for real cooking, which helps to make the hotel suite feel more like a temporary apartment. Ample free parking is especially valuable for guests with large work trucks or trailers, providing space that other hotels might not.
With a grab-and-go breakfast, a pet-friendly policy, a full kitchen, and a fitness center, the hotel offers convenience and flexibility.
Hampton Inn by Hilton Minneapolis / Eagan
The benefit of a direct drive to South Valley Park Rink turns Hampton Inn by Hilton Minneapolis / Eagan into a sensible home base before the on-site experience begins.
Lobby coffee service at Hampton Inn reflects attention to detail, providing familiar comfort that eases arrivals and guest transitions. Suites include microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers, giving guests practical setups for meals, snacks, and hot drinks anytime. Fitness centers with treadmills, ellipticals, and free weights help guests maintain wellness routines, supporting energy and balance daily.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, valet parking, indoor pools, breakfast buffets, and business lounges deliver convenience that supports each stay.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport
Within Inver Grove Heights, Fairfield Inn & Suites Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport keeps South Valley Park Rink within easy reach, a detail that allows the hotel to serve as a convenient hub.
Fairfield Inn positions tall counters with seating and nearby outlets to support brief collaboration or solo work while waiting for room access. Suites provide branded bath amenities, shower/tub combinations, and bright mirrors, ensuring refresh routines feel consistent and reliable. Indoor pools include lounge chairs, towel racks, and safe layouts, creating reliable leisure spaces where families and individuals can unwind.
Free Wi-Fi, business center access, complimentary breakfast, and fitness rooms ensure both productivity and wellness remain consistent during stays.
Courtyard by Marriott Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport
Guests at Courtyard by Marriott Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport can rely on South Valley Park Rink being within easy reach as a key perk that frames their entire stay.
Courtyard highlights The Bistro as an evening anchor in the lobby, providing a relaxed stop that encourages connection after check-in. Every suite includes walk-in showers, robes, and premium amenities, creating rituals of comfort and consistency for travelers daily. At the business center, shared desks, reliable Wi-Fi, and printing stations give guests the convenience to complete work with ease.
Guests benefit from business centers, 24/7 markets, indoor pools, and breakfast service, ensuring productivity and wellness daily.
Extended Stay America Suites Minneapolis Airport Eagan South
This direct commute to South Valley Park Rink helps Extended Stay America Suites Minneapolis Airport Eagan South guests become acquainted with the local Inver Grove Heights area without a long journey.
The friendly and helpful staff at Extended Stay America make the check-in process pleasant, offering assistance and local information. The generous counter space in the kitchen area of each suite provides plenty of room for meal prep, adding to the room's functionality. The fitness room, though simple, provides the necessary equipment for a solid cardio or light strength-training workout any time of day.
The suite of amenities, including a full kitchen, free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and a pool, makes the hotel a smart choice for travelers.
Extended Stay America Suites - Minneapolis - Airport - Mendota Heights
This useful drive to South Valley Park Rink is a key feature of Extended Stay America Suites - Minneapolis - Airport - Mendota Heights, as it makes for a smooth and simple commute.
Extended Stay America's approach to pet-friendly travel removes a major barrier, making it an easy choice for animal lovers. All guest rooms are pet-friendly and feature durable flooring, providing a worry-free and comfortable space for travelers with animals. At some locations, outdoor grills are provided, giving guests a fantastic option for a fun, affordable, and social dinner experience.
A pet-friendly policy, a swimming pool, a full kitchen, and on-site laundry facilities create a welcoming environment for all guest types.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Eagan - Minneapolis Area by IHG
The direct drive from Holiday Inn Express & Suites Eagan - Minneapolis Area by IHG to South Valley Park Rink in Inver Grove Heights ensures guests can enjoy local convenience before the hotel experience.
Holiday Inn Express markets operate 24/7, allowing travelers to handle small needs or cravings regardless of the hour of arrival. Guest rooms offer flat-screen HDTVs, sofa seating, and USB ports, combining entertainment ease with comfortable relaxation areas. Business centers offering Wi-Fi, terminals, and printers help travelers remain productive without needing to leave the property.
Pet policies, free Wi-Fi, and breakfast service join with pools and laundry, covering both family and business traveler priorities.
Comfort Inn Eagan Minneapolis - St. Paul South
In Inver Grove Heights, Comfort Inn Eagan Minneapolis - St. Paul South has a accessible location keeping South Valley Park Rink an easy drive, letting guests move at their own pace.
Comfort Inn arrival seating often includes accessible outlets and table surfaces so companions charge devices and review plans while waiting. Suites typically include dining-height counters or tables and extra seating that double as flexible workspaces for small teams or families. Business centers include computers, printers, and fast Wi-Fi so last-minute printing, boarding passes, or quick research happen without delay.
From pet-friendly rooms and nearby relief areas to laundry service, fitness centers, and free Wi-Fi, longer stays stay practical and easy.
TownePlace Suites Marriott Minneapolis St. Paul AirportEagan
Guests at TownePlace Suites Marriott Minneapolis St. Paul AirportEagan can enjoy South Valley Park Rink being within easy reach as a defining perk of their stay.
At TownePlace Suites, breakfast and beverage stations remain ready in the lobby, supporting dependable arrival comfort every morning. Guest rooms deliver kitchen capabilities, storage clarity, and media comforts, supporting both culinary and winding-down rituals. Meeting room offers modular carpet tiles and breakout zones, helping multi-team events stay agile and organized without friction.
Pets-welcome, business center, and outdoor patio unite inclusivity, productivity, and leisure, allowing stays to feel balanced and supportive.
SpringHill Suites Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport / Eagan
The hotel's spot a direct run from South Valley Park Rink gives SpringHill Suites Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport / Eagan guests a easy way to engage with their surroundings.
SpringHill Suites highlights its partnership with west elm through modern furnishings, projecting an identity of thoughtful contemporary design. Suites are designed with west elm furnishings, bright windows, and open layouts, shaping modern retreats that blend style with functional comfort. The business area includes computers, printers, and reliable Wi-Fi, helping professionals stay productive without disrupting their trip routines.
Guests find breakfast variety, a 24/7 Market, reliable Wi-Fi, and indoor pool access, ensuring travel feels simple and routines remain consistent.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Cottage Grove, MN
From Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Cottage Grove, MN, South Valley Park Rink is a simple drive, a feature that makes for a smooth transition from hotel to event.
Radisson sets tall communal tables with integrated outlets near reception so short work sessions and device charging happen without delay. Every guest room provides climate controls, a luggage bench, and clear vanity lighting, keeping grooming, unpacking, and comfort routine-driven. Poolside seating areas provide loungers, umbrellas, and side tables, helping guests relax between activities and keep daily plans on track.
With meetings, business center access, breakfast, fitness facilities, laundry, and accessible parking, logistics remain straightforward.
Residence Inn by Marriott Minneapolis St. Paul / Eagan
The hotel's sensible location ensures South Valley Park Rink is an uncomplicated drive, underscoring its suitability for regional travel.
Curated décor with regional artwork in Residence Inn receptions creates polished impressions, reinforcing authenticity and brand personality. Suites include sofa beds, televisions, and lounge seating, giving families versatile areas for evening relaxation and entertainment. Business centers offering computer terminals, printers, and Wi-Fi give travelers reliable tools to manage work seamlessly during their stay.
Pet-friendly options, indoor pools, business centers, complimentary breakfast, and Wi-Fi access simplify routines for families and teams.
Super 8 Saint Paul
When the day's drive in Inver Grove Heights needs to be simple, Super 8 Saint Paul's location an easy drive from South Valley Park Rink is a key benefit.
Reception zones at Super 8 are marked by bright finishes and symmetry, giving travelers confidence and clarity when checking in. All guest rooms supply flat-screen HDTVs, ergonomic chairs, and Wi-Fi, combining comfort and productivity for modern travelers. Business centers furnished with workstations, printers, and Wi-Fi give professionals practical spaces to manage tasks efficiently.
Connectivity with free Wi-Fi, breakfast dining, and fitness centers combines with parking and pools, supporting daily travel balance.
Hampton Inn Minneapolis / St. Paul-Woodbury
For a trip to the area, Hampton Inn Minneapolis / St. Paul-Woodbury's location as a sensible base is a core part of its appeal to travelers.
Hampton Inn Pavilion-style lobby markets stock snacks, drinks, and essentials, offering immediate convenience to support guest needs. All guest rooms contain ergonomic workstations, strong Wi-Fi, and multiple outlets, ensuring business travelers stay focused on the road. Business centers with computers, printers, and ergonomic seating allow travelers to complete tasks, keeping productivity steady on the road.
Pet-friendly options, complimentary breakfast, Pavilion Pantry counters, fitness rooms, and Wi-Fi connectivity ensure comfort and ease.
InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront by IHG
As a practical base, InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront by IHG is a useful choice for those making the drive to South Valley Park Rink.
With Club InterContinental access, InterContinental provides afternoon tea and all-day refreshments, signaling care as plans settle, club-only. Every guest room keeps iron, ironing board, and laundry bags available, supporting business attire or uniforms without service delays. Rooftop pools with cabanas, bar service, and skyline views offer relaxed resets, balancing urban energy with shared downtime between plans.
With Wi-Fi, business hubs, rooftop bars, and breakfast service, work and social recovery remain balanced through varied schedules on site.
Residence Inn by Marriott St. Paul Downtown
The uncomplicated regional drive from Residence Inn by Marriott St. Paul Downtown to South Valley Park Rink in Inver Grove Heights makes the connection between the two uncomplicated and fast.
Breakfast service at Residence Inn combines hot buffets with fresh fruit, delivering dependable clarity that supports guest morning routines. All suites provide coffee makers, microwaves, and dining tables, letting guests enjoy quick meals with the comfort of in-room convenience. Evening lounges serving complimentary wine, small plates, and casual seating create relaxed gatherings that help guests transition into night.
Complimentary internet, self-parking, fitness centers, hot breakfast, and meeting rooms maintain consistency for modern travelers.
Book as a group & pay separately.
Lowest Group Rate Guaranteed.
South Valley Park Rink Local Area Guide
Welcome to the South Valley Park Rink guide, designed for players, coaches, families, and team coordinators planning a visit to this popular community ice sports facility. This guide provides essential orientation for navigating the rink, understanding nearby amenities, and maximizing your event or practice experience. Discover practical advice on arrival, on-site logistics, and local options to make your trip smooth and enjoyable. Get ready to hit the ice with confidence and make the most of your time in Inver Grove Heights.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – South Valley Park Rink (Inver Grove Heights, MN)
South Valley Park Rink is situated in Inver Grove Heights, a suburban city located southeast of St. Paul, Minnesota. The rink is part of a larger community park system, offering a green setting amidst residential and light commercial areas. Access to the park is primarily from 70th Street, which connects to major local thoroughfares. The nearest significant highways are Interstate 494 and U.S. Highway 52, providing broader connectivity to the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Drive times to downtown St. Paul are typically around 15-20 minutes, while Minneapolis is about 25-35 minutes away, depending on traffic. Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is the closest major airport, located approximately 15-20 miles west, with typical drive times ranging from 20 to 30 minutes. Parking is generally ample within South Valley Park, with dedicated lots near the rink facilities, though specific arrangements may apply during large tournaments or league events. Public transit options are limited directly to the park, making a personal vehicle or rideshare service the most convenient ways to reach the venue. For optimal arrival, aim to reach the park at least 30 minutes prior to any scheduled ice time to allow for parking, gear preparation, and finding your way around the facility, especially during busy periods.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near South Valley Park Rink
Accommodations in Inver Grove Heights and the surrounding South St. Paul area are primarily situated along the main commercial corridors and near highway interchanges. You'll find a range of hotels catering to various budgets, from extended-stay options to standard hotel chains. While there are no hotels directly adjacent to South Valley Park Rink, many are located within a 5-10 minute drive, offering convenient access. The area is generally well-served by hotels that are popular with teams visiting for hockey tournaments or figure skating events, particularly those looking for easy highway access. Many families and teams opt for hotels that provide amenities like complimentary breakfast and suites, which can be useful for larger groups or longer stays. Booking well in advance is strongly recommended, especially for weekends or during major local sporting events, as hotel availability can decrease rapidly. Utilizing map filters to look for accommodations within a 5-mile radius of the rink is a practical approach to finding lodging that balances proximity with potential cost savings.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport is about a 25-minute drive away.
- Arrive 30 minutes early to secure parking and prepare gear for your ice time.
- Grab a coffee or a bite at a local café in the nearby commercial areas.
- Visit the Cascade Bay Waterpark for summer fun or a local library for indoor activities.
- A designated team area or nearby park provides a convenient spot to regroup between games.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Begin your game day by arriving at South Valley Park Rink approximately 30-45 minutes before your scheduled ice time. This allows ample time to find parking, which is typically straightforward in the main lots adjacent to the arena. Once inside, proceed to the main lobby area for any necessary check-in procedures or to locate your designated locker room. Players and coaches should then gather their equipment and make their way to the ice surface for pre-game warm-ups, ensuring sufficient time to get acclimated to the ice conditions. Familiarize yourself with the rink layout, including the location of restrooms and any available water fountains.
Mid-Day Regroup
For teams with back-to-back games or extended breaks between sessions, strategic regrouping is key. Utilize the designated team areas or common spaces within the rink for downtime, reviewing strategies, or allowing players to rest. If weather permits and time allows, stepping outside to the surrounding park areas can offer a refreshing change of pace. Nearby family-friendly restaurants or casual dining spots in Inver Grove Heights can serve as excellent locations for team meals or post-game celebrations. Ensure you have a clear plan for meeting back at the rink with enough time to transition to your next scheduled activity.
Wrap-Up & Departure
Following your final ice session, allow sufficient time for thorough cool-down and equipment breakdown. Ensure all personal belongings and team gear are collected from the locker rooms and any shared spaces. Before departing, take a moment to confirm that the locker room is left in good condition, adhering to any facility guidelines. Exiting the park can be busy during peak times, especially after events conclude, so plan your departure accordingly to avoid congestion on 70th Street and surrounding roads. Consider rideshare services for convenience if your group plans to head directly to a post-event gathering.
Things to Do Near South Valley Park Rink
Walkable
South Valley Park Trails
Explore the scenic walking and biking trails that wind through the expansive South Valley Park, which surrounds the rink. These paved and natural surface paths offer a pleasant way to enjoy the local environment, whether for a brisk walk before or after an ice session, or as a family activity. The trails are accessible directly from the rink parking area and connect various park features, providing a tranquil escape with opportunities for bird watching and enjoying the Minnesota landscape. It's an ideal spot for light exercise and fresh air in a relaxed setting, suitable for all ages.
70th St · On siteInver Grove Heights Community Athletic Fields
Adjacent to the rink, you'll find a complex of athletic fields primarily used for baseball, softball, and soccer. While primarily for organized sports, the open space and maintained grounds offer areas for families to relax, picnic, or for younger children to play freely in a safe, supervised environment. During seasons when fields are not in use, they provide pleasant open green spaces for informal recreation or simply enjoying the outdoors. It's a convenient and easily accessible amenity for those looking to extend their outdoor time near the rink.
70th St · Adjacent5–15 Minutes Away
Central Park
Central Park is Inver Grove Heights' largest municipal park and offers a wide array of recreational opportunities beyond the rink's immediate vicinity. It features playgrounds, picnic areas, walking paths, and a large pond. In the summer months, it's a popular spot for families, and it also hosts various community events. The park provides a versatile space for relaxation, play, and enjoying the outdoors, making it a great option for families looking for entertainment or a change of scenery.
1000 10th St · 1.5 miKopp Park
Kopp Park provides additional green space and recreational amenities for visitors. This park features sports fields, a playground, and walking paths, making it a well-rounded destination for outdoor activities. It's a quieter alternative to Central Park, offering a more relaxed atmosphere for families or individuals seeking a peaceful setting to enjoy nature or engage in light physical activity. Its proximity makes it an easy addition to an itinerary that includes activities at South Valley Park Rink.
8400 77th St · 3.0 miBeyond the Event: For those seeking indoor entertainment or attractions slightly further afield, the extensive offerings of St. Paul and Minneapolis are within a short driving distance. Options range from museums and shopping centers to unique entertainment venues, providing a diverse set of choices for any preference or weather condition.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near South Valley Park Rink
Inside & Adjacent
Rink Concessions
While not a full-service restaurant, South Valley Park Rink typically offers concessions catering to athletes and spectators. Expect standard arena fare such as hot dogs, pizza, snacks, and beverages. These options are perfect for a quick bite during breaks in play or for fueling up between games without leaving the facility. It's a convenient choice for grabbing something easy and accessible while minimizing time away from the event.
70th St · On siteBurger King
Located just a short drive from the rink along 70th Street, this fast-food staple offers familiar and quick dining options. It's a convenient choice for families or teams looking for an economical and speedy meal, whether for breakfast sandwiches, burgers, or chicken tenders. Its proximity makes it an easy stop for a casual meal without straying far from the park facilities.
70th St · 0.5 miNearby Gathering Spots
Acapulco Mexican Restaurant
Acapulco offers a lively atmosphere and a wide selection of classic Mexican dishes, including tacos, enchiladas, and fajitas. It's a popular spot for groups and families seeking a sit-down meal with a festive ambiance. With a menu that appeals to diverse tastes, it serves as a great gathering place for teams to enjoy a flavorful meal and relax after a game or practice.
8190 Tamarack Rd · 1.2 miDavanni's Pizza and Hot Hoagies
8070 Blaine Ave · 1.5 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Carmelo's
Carmelo's is a well-regarded Italian restaurant providing a slightly more elevated dining experience with a focus on traditional Italian cuisine. Known for its pasta dishes, seafood, and classic entrees, it offers a comfortable yet refined atmosphere suitable for team dinners or celebrating a successful event. The service is attentive, and the ambiance makes it a pleasant choice for groups seeking quality food and a relaxed evening out.
8185 Carmen Ave · 1.6 miDraft Sports Bar & Grill
1061 Arcade St, St. Paul · 4.5 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- During hockey season, expect increased traffic and crowds at the rink, especially on weekend mornings and afternoons.
- Parking lot access can become congested right before and after popular ice times, so factor in a buffer.
- While the rink is generally family-friendly, enforce locker room etiquette to ensure a positive experience for all users.
- Check local event listings in Inver Grove Heights or nearby St. Paul, as community festivals can impact local travel routes.
- Weekend evenings at nearby restaurants can be busy; consider making reservations, especially for larger groups seeking dinner.
Weather & Seasons at South Valley Park Rink
- Winter: Winter in Inver Grove Heights is cold, with average temperatures often hovering in the teens and single digits Fahrenheit. Visitors should dress in warm layers, including hats, gloves, and insulated outerwear, for any time spent outdoors before or after skating. The cold weather ensures consistent ice conditions but requires preparation for chilly transition times.
- Spring & early summer: Spring and early summer bring milder temperatures, typically ranging from the 40s to the 60s Fahrenheit. Layers are still advisable as conditions can be variable, with occasional cool days or unexpected warmth. Outdoor park activities become more appealing, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the grounds.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer, from July through August, is characterized by warm to hot and humid weather, with temperatures often in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit, sometimes reaching the 90s. Light, breathable clothing is essential. Staying hydrated is crucial if spending extended time outdoors, and seeking air-conditioned spaces like the rink lobby or nearby cafes is a good strategy during heat waves.
- Fall season: Fall offers crisp air and pleasant temperatures, generally between the 40s and 60s Fahrenheit, making it ideal for outdoor recreation. As the season progresses, temperatures will drop, necessitating warmer jackets and longer sleeves. This season is perfect for enjoying the park's trails and transitioning back into indoor sports activities.
- Rain & snow: Rain is possible in all seasons, though more frequent in spring and fall. Snowfall is common from late fall through early spring. Pack an umbrella or waterproof jacket for rainy days. For snowy conditions, waterproof footwear and outerwear are recommended; be aware that heavy snow can sometimes affect driving conditions and road access to the park.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: Not applicable (community rink)
- Neighborhood: South St. Paul / Inver Grove Heights
- Nearest airport: Minneapolis-Saint Paul International (MSP)
- Parking: On-site lots available
- Walkable district: Limited to park amenities
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Cub Foods (1.0 mi)
- Pharmacy: CVS Pharmacy (0.8 mi)
- Urgent care: HealthEast Midway Urgent Care (3.5 mi)
- Downtime: South Valley Park trails, Central Park
- Pro tip: Book ice time well in advance, especially for peak season weekends.

