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Top 24 Hotels Near St Thomas Arena
950 Mendota Heights Rd Saint Paul, MN 55120
Fairfield Inn & Suites Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport
This easy drive to St Thomas Arena enables Fairfield Inn & Suites Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport to offer a convenient and well-integrated lodging experience.
Fairfield Inn places tall communal tables with integrated outlets close to check-in, supporting short meetings and laptop use on arrival. Guest rooms offer flat-screen TVs, comfortable seating, and reliable Wi-Fi, giving travelers both entertainment options and connectivity daily. Lobby seating zones include couches, small tables, and natural light, creating intuitive orientation points for travelers upon arrival.
Amenities like Wi-Fi, meeting space, complimentary breakfast, and indoor pools deliver dependable support for productivity and relaxation.
Courtyard by Marriott Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport
This convenient commute to St Thomas Arena allows Courtyard by Marriott Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport to offer a blend of convenience and calm before the stay unfolds.
With infused water dispensers and lobby coffee stations, Courtyard ensures dependable rituals that reduce stress and feel familiar. Suites incorporate sofa seating, large TVs, and work counters, creating multifunctional layouts for leisure and productivity needs. Guests in the business center use computers, printers, and Wi-Fi, practical resources that simplify productivity while traveling.
With free Wi-Fi, breakfast options, indoor pools, and self-parking, Courtyard offers families and professionals dependable amenities.
Extended Stay America Suites - Minneapolis - Airport - Mendota Heights
Guests at Extended Stay America Suites - Minneapolis - Airport - Mendota Heights can appreciate being an easy drive from St Thomas Arena, a perk that allows for a more organic and flexible schedule.
Extended Stay America offers a streamlined and predictable check-in, providing a sense of familiarity for returning and loyal guests. A large, flat-screen TV in each guest room offers premium channels, providing a simple way to unwind after a day of work or activities. A clean and well-maintained swimming pool is a delightful feature for any traveler looking for a little relaxation during their stay.
From the on-site laundry for chores to a swimming pool for fun, plus a kitchen and free Wi-Fi, the hotel caters to all parts of a long stay.
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Eagan / St. Paul
For visitors to Saint Paul, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Eagan / St. Paul is a simple drive from St Thomas Arena, a detail that supports a stress-free travel plan.
At renovation-forward sites, Microtel pairs clear sightlines with intuitive desk cues, minimizing friction when multiple guests arrive. All guest rooms provide an iron with board, a hair dryer, and towels, keeping routines familiar without extra errands after check-in. Front-porch benches near entrances provide a quick rest spot, so companions can wait comfortably while plans come together nearby.
With Wi-Fi, breakfast, guest laundry, and pet-friendly rooms at select sites, road trips remain predictable and low-stress overall.
Omni Viking Lakes Hotel
From Omni Viking Lakes Hotel, St Thomas Arena is a straightforward drive, a choice that makes for an uncomplicated start to the day.
Omni hosts triage lines with visible staff who answer questions up front, preserving pace while preferences and upgrades are captured. Guest rooms, with plush mattresses, crisp linens, and quiet climate control, promote restorative sleep so travel days reset cleanly overnight. The lobby frames lounge seating, café tables, and charging hubs, creating orientation points where routes and rides finalize smoothly.
Between rooftop lounges, breakfast buffets, Wi-Fi, and fitness rooms, teams align rest, energy, connection, and training every day.
Extended Stay America Suites Minneapolis Airport Eagan North
The hotel's spot an easy drive from St Thomas Arena gives Extended Stay America Suites Minneapolis Airport Eagan North guests options in how they plan their local travel.
A clear and simple pet policy makes Extended Stay America a reliable choice for guests who are relocating or on long-term assignments. The convenience of a full-size refrigerator means hotel guests can buy groceries, save leftovers, and always have cold drinks on hand. The on-site laundry is a budget-friendly amenity, saving guests the significant cost of using external laundry services over a long visit.
The combination of a fitness center, a grab-and-go breakfast, a full kitchen, and pet-friendly rooms offers a comprehensive travel solution.
Hampton Inn by Hilton Minneapolis / Eagan
The quick drive from Hampton Inn by Hilton Minneapolis / Eagan to St Thomas Arena in Saint Paul renders the connection between the two simple and fast.
Modern design with bright décor inside Hampton Inn receptions creates polished impressions, reinforcing clarity from the very start. Each suite features closets, luggage benches, and drawer storage, offering practical organization that supports longer guest stays. Breakfast areas with fruit, pastries, and hot buffets create reliable structure, giving mornings dependable clarity for all guests.
Fitness studios, complimentary Wi-Fi, hot breakfast bags, Pavilion Pantry counters, and indoor pools support dependable daily routines.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Eagan, MN
For those traveling by car, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Eagan, MN is a simple drive from St Thomas Arena, ensuring a simple and predictable commute.
With bench seating and luggage racks by the entry, Radisson gives families and groups staging points to drop bags and regroup easily. Standard guest rooms position the desk near outlets, a comfortable chair, and adjustable lighting so short work sessions stay focused and productive. Lobby workspaces merge communal tables, individual nooks, and abundant outlets, making quick email checks and map reviews straightforward on site.
Between fitness rooms, pools, meetings, an on-site restaurant, EV charging, and laundry, guests get reliable support across trip types.
InterContinental Minneapolis - St. Paul Airport by IHG
The brief drive from InterContinental Minneapolis - St. Paul Airport by IHG to St Thomas Arena in Saint Paul ensures guests can enjoy local convenience before the hotel experience.
InterContinental places umbrellas or mats by doors in wet weather, keeping entries safer while teams regroup and route baggage carts inside quickly. Suites coordinate wet bars, mini-fridges, and glassware, making in-room refreshments easy when schedules compress between events. Business centers keep desks, high-speed internet, and office tools accessible, ensuring work tasks continue while trips stay balanced.
With valet service, on-site restaurants, Wi-Fi, and laundry, travelers resolve essentials quickly so time shifts toward purpose and rest.
Extended Stay America Suites Minneapolis Airport Eagan South
For guests in Saint Paul, Extended Stay America Suites Minneapolis Airport Eagan South is a quick drive from St Thomas Arena, a location that supports a variety of travel plans.
The lobby at an Extended Stay America is a functional, no-frills space designed to facilitate an efficient and speedy check-in for guests. Each guest room's private bathroom is kept spotlessly clean and is stocked with fresh towels, ensuring a comfortable hotel stay. Outdoor grills provide a taste of home, allowing guests to prepare a summer barbecue for themselves or their family while on the road.
With a policy that welcomes pets, plus a full kitchen, free parking, and a fitness center, the hotel is ideal for guests who are relocating.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Eagan - Minneapolis Area by IHG
St Thomas Arena is a quick drive from Holiday Inn Express & Suites Eagan - Minneapolis Area by IHG, a feature that makes the hotel a practical and well-positioned base.
Lobby seating areas in Holiday Inn Express include long communal desks and lounge chairs, offering guests both comfort and utility. Each guest room contains coffee stations, mini-fridges, and digital thermostats, providing guests with practical convenience every day. Breakfast rooms serving buffets, pastries, and cereals provide dependable day-start clarity for families and professionals alike.
Connectivity with Wi-Fi, breakfast buffets, and pools aligns with fitness centers and laundry, covering daily convenience reliably.
Residence Inn by Marriott Minneapolis St. Paul / Eagan
The fundamental convenience of a stay at Residence Inn by Marriott Minneapolis St. Paul / Eagan in Saint Paul is the quick drive to St Thomas Arena, which streamlines the entire process of daily planning.
Grab-and-go stations inside Residence Inn lobbies provide convenient refreshments, removing small stresses immediately upon arrival. Suites feature coffee makers, microwaves, and refrigerators, supporting daily convenience and helping guests maintain their routines. Evening reception lounges with complimentary beverages, light fare, and lounge chairs offer guests dependable hospitality every evening.
Concierge support, EV charging, complimentary Wi-Fi, fitness centers, and meeting spaces provide modern convenience for any trip purpose.
Comfort Inn Eagan Minneapolis - St. Paul South
From the moment you arrive at Comfort Inn Eagan Minneapolis - St. Paul South, St Thomas Arena is a quick drive without a long journey, making for an easy start.
Comfort Inn frames arrival with visible front desks and warm lobby seating that eases transition after travel and supports quick regroup. Standard guest rooms offer quiet HVAC, supportive linens, and layered lighting to help guests rest and adjust their routines with ease. Indoor pools and courtyard pools provide lap space and lounge seating, letting guests reset with a swim or unwind between plans.
Between free hot breakfast, coffee stations, free Wi-Fi, and mini-fridges, mornings fuel productivity and reduce off-site runs.
Coratel Inn and Suites by Jasper Saint Paul Minneapolis Inver Grove Heights.
This easy drive to St Thomas Arena helps Coratel Inn and Suites by Jasper Saint Paul Minneapolis Inver Grove Heights. Guests become more connected to the Saint Paul area.
Coratel Inn and Suites by Jasper Saint Paul Minneapolis Inver Grove Heights. Typically offers easy check-in, on-site parking, and a modest lobby space focused on practicality and efficiency. Guest rooms may include curated décor, hardwood floors, and premium bedding that create a comfortable and stylish overnight experience. Shared spaces typically include modest lobbies, vending stations, and breakfast counters that reinforce simple travel consistency.
A visit may provide Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, vending areas, and guest laundry, reinforcing simple travel support for all visitors.
TownePlace Suites Marriott Minneapolis St. Paul AirportEagan
The benefit of a direct drive to St Thomas Arena makes TownePlace Suites Marriott Minneapolis St. Paul AirportEagan into a great starting point before the main on-site experience.
Free hot breakfast served in TownePlace Suites lobbies grounds guests in familiar morning rituals, ensuring arrival days begin smoothly. Suites combine kitchen areas, flat-screen TVs, and ergonomic seating, presenting environments that support daily balance and guest ease. Breakfast room adds omelet stations and fruit bowls, giving guests quick yet nutritious options that anchor their day with care.
Business center, convenience store, and walking trails (patio access) align work, supplies, and gentle movement—balancing routines gently.
SpringHill Suites Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport / Eagan
When staying in Saint Paul, the uncomplicated drive from SpringHill Suites Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport / Eagan to St Thomas Arena is a direct run, allowing for a low-stress start to the day.
SpringHill Suites combines infused water, grab-and-go snacks, and bright seating in its lobbies, softening transitions from travel fatigue. Guest rooms provide microwaves, compact fridges, and coffee makers, supporting personal convenience and continuity of home routines on trips. The business center highlights workstations, ergonomic seating, and reliable printers, helping travelers sustain productivity during visits.
Amenities like self-parking, complimentary breakfast, a 24/7 Market, and fitness center ensure convenience and dependability every visit.
Hilton Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport
For a trip to Saint Paul, Hilton Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport's location a direct run from St Thomas Arena is an essential element of its practical charm.
At Hilton, community seating and casual lounges encourage conversation, making lobbies natural hubs for comfort and social connection. Guest rooms include ergonomic desks, charging outlets, and Wi-Fi, helping professionals remain connected and productive during stays. In the breakfast area, fruit, waffles, and hot coffee support travelers by creating consistent rituals that simplify morning routines.
With meeting rooms, Wi-Fi, breakfast buffets, and valet parking, professionals find reliable amenities that keep business travel smooth.
Snelling Motel
The simple drive from Snelling Motel to St Thomas Arena in Saint Paul renders cross-town travel uncomplicated and efficient.
Snelling Motel often highlights parking near rooms, vending access, and compact reception that support clear and functional travel ease. Each guest room typically includes Wi-Fi, climate control, and compact bathrooms, sustaining functional routines across visits. Public areas may feature compact breakfast corners, vending areas, and modest seating that help maintain clear balance for visitors.
A visit may highlight Wi-Fi, vending machines, parking, and pet allowances, creating simple and functional support for budget travelers.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Minneapolis Airport
The hotel's location is ideal for straightforward travel, with St Thomas Arena an easy drive away, allowing for predictable travel times.
Hydration stands paired with community tables at Embassy Suites lobbies give guests refreshment and coordination space that smooth arrivals naturally. Each guest room includes blackout curtains, plush bedding, and quiet HVAC, creating restful environments that restore energy. Outdoor pools with sun decks and shaded seating provide balanced environments, letting guests unwind or socialize with flexibility.
Indoor pools, pet services, complimentary Wi-Fi, fitness centers, and meeting rooms provide reliable balance for both work and leisure trips.
Crowne Plaza Suites MSP Airport - Mall of America by IHG
This convenient drive to St Thomas Arena from Crowne Plaza Suites MSP Airport - Mall of America by IHG is a central aspect, as it facilitates a smooth and easy visit.
Communal tables and lounge chairs within Crowne Plaza lobbies encourage social connection and casual meetings before moving upstairs. All guest rooms include branded bath products, rainfall showers, and soft towels, refreshing daily routines with dependable comfort. Business lounges arranged with workstations, Wi-Fi, and comfortable chairs support productivity without requiring use of the guest room.
Business centers, meeting rooms, and Wi-Fi join with fitness and breakfast, balancing productivity with consistent daily routines.
Hyatt Place Minneapolis Airport-South
From Hyatt Place Minneapolis Airport-South, the direct drive to St Thomas Arena is a core principle of accessibility straightforward that defines the beginning of the stay.
Modern décor and soft lighting at Hyatt Place create inviting lobbies that set dependable first impressions for travelers worldwide. All guest rooms include plush Hyatt Grand Beds®, blackout drapes, and climate controls, supporting restful nights and consistent comfort. Meeting spaces set with AV equipment, movable tables, and breakout corners deliver flexibility for group events or team discussions.
Free Wi-Fi, business lounges, and pools combine with breakfast and meeting rooms, creating balance between productivity and rest.
Hyatt Regency Bloomington - Minneapolis
The hotel's location is a smart choice, keeping St Thomas Arena within easy reach and contributing to a controlled itinerary.
Lobby lounges with bar service and visible seating at Hyatt Regency encourage social connection and help travelers unwind naturally. Each guest room has walk-in showers, branded bath amenities, and fresh towels, helping guests feel refreshed and restored daily. Breakfast areas feature hot buffets, cereals, and coffee stations, supporting smooth day starts with options that suit varied tastes.
On-site dining, breakfast service, and valet parking combine with concierge support, simplifying daily routines during each stay.
Hampton Inn Suites Minneapolis St. Paul Arpt-Mall of America
Guests at Hampton Inn Suites Minneapolis St. Paul Arpt-Mall of America can enjoy St Thomas Arena being within easy reach, a perk that adds a relaxing touch to the stay.
Weekday breakfast bags at Hampton Inn highlight courtesy touches, ensuring morning meals stay consistent and convenient for travelers. Every guest room provides blackout drapes, plush linens, and thermostats, creating personalized comfort that supports restorative rest. Fitness studios with rowing machines, free weights, and cardio options let travelers maintain routines, sustaining energy through trips.
Complimentary internet, pet services, breakfast buffets, EV charging, and business spaces create flexible amenities for modern guests.
SpringHill Suites Minneapolis-St Paul Airpt / Mall of America
In Saint Paul, SpringHill Suites Minneapolis-St Paul Airpt / Mall of America is situated a simple cross-town drive from St Thomas Arena, which lets for a simple daily commute.
Guests stepping into SpringHill Suites find modern finishes, stylish décor, and communal tables, which encourage relaxed social connection. Suites highlight open layouts, sofa seating, and entertainment options, offering families and groups flexibility to rest and connect comfortably. The breakfast space provides pastries, cereals, and hot eggs alongside coffee service, helping families and solo travelers start days smoothly.
With hot breakfast, complimentary Wi-Fi, indoor pool access, and flexible meeting rooms, guests receive balanced support across varied needs.
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St Thomas Arena Local Area Guide
Welcome to the St. Thomas Arena guide, designed to help you navigate your visit whether you're attending a hockey game, a figure skating event, or another community gathering. This guide provides essential information on getting to the arena, finding local amenities, and understanding the rhythm of event days. Prepare for a smooth and enjoyable experience by familiarizing yourself with the best ways to plan your arrival, enjoy the local offerings, and depart without a hitch. Get ready to experience all that St. Thomas Arena and its surrounding area have to offer.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – St Thomas Arena (Saint Paul, MN)
The St. Thomas Arena is situated in Mendota Heights, a suburban city nestled within the greater Twin Cities metropolitan area of Minnesota. Its prime location offers convenient access from major thoroughfares, making it a accessible destination for visitors from across the region. The arena is easily reached via Interstate 35E, which provides direct connections to both Minneapolis and downtown St. Paul. Highway 110 also serves as a key artery, facilitating travel from the eastern suburbs. Parking is primarily managed through dedicated lots surrounding the arena complex, with additional options often available at nearby affiliated facilities during peak times. For those flying in, Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is the closest major airport, typically a 15-20 minute drive from the arena depending on traffic. Public transportation options are somewhat limited directly to the arena, so many visitors opt for private vehicles, ride-sharing services, or taxis. Planning your arrival about 30-45 minutes before the event start time is advisable to account for traffic flow and parking procedures.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near St Thomas Arena
The St. Thomas Arena is located in an area characterized by a mix of suburban residential neighborhoods and some commercial developments, rather than a dense urban core. Hotel accommodations are primarily found a short drive away, particularly in the neighboring communities of Mendota Heights, West St. Paul, and the southern parts of St. Paul. While no hotels are directly adjacent to the arena, most are within a 5 to 15-minute drive. This proximity means that most visitors will require a vehicle or utilize ride-sharing services to reach the arena from their lodging. During major tournaments or popular events, hotels in these surrounding areas can fill up quickly, so booking well in advance is strongly recommended. Consider using hotel booking platforms with map views to identify properties that offer the easiest access to the arena via the main roadways. Staying slightly further afield might offer more options or potentially better rates, but always factor in the short drive time.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is about a 15-20 minute drive away.
- Arrive 30-45 minutes early to navigate parking and potential event entry queues smoothly.
- Explore local dining and shops in nearby Mendota Heights or West St. Paul for casual outings.
- The nearby Twin Cities metro offers numerous indoor entertainment and dining options for inclement weather.
- Consider local cafes or casual restaurants in Mendota Heights for team regrouping or casual meals.
Event Day Flow
Arrival & Pre-Event
Your event day at St. Thomas Arena begins with a strategic arrival. Aim to reach the vicinity 45 minutes to an hour before scheduled event start times, especially for popular games or tournaments. This buffer allows ample time to navigate any event-day traffic, locate your designated parking area, and proceed to the arena entrance. Familiarize yourself with the arena's entry policies regarding bags and prohibited items prior to your departure to ensure a swift security screening. Once inside, take a moment to orient yourself with the concourse layout, locate restrooms, and perhaps grab a quick refreshment before finding your seats.
During the Event
As your event unfolds, immerse yourself in the experience. The arena is designed to keep you close to the action, with clear sightlines from most seating areas. If you need to leave your seat during play, be mindful of natural breaks in the action to avoid disturbing others or missing key moments. Concessions and restrooms are generally accessible via the main concourse. For longer events or breaks between periods or games, consider a brief stroll around the concourse to stretch your legs. Keep track of time to ensure you're ready for any post-event activities or need to beat the initial departure rush.
Post-Event & Departure
Following the conclusion of your event, patience is key for a smooth departure. Avoid the immediate surge by waiting a few minutes in your seats or exploring the concourse a bit longer. This allows the primary wave of attendees to exit the immediate vicinity, potentially reducing congestion in the parking lots and on surrounding roads. If using ride-sharing services, designate a clear pick-up spot away from the main drop-off zones to streamline your connection. Allow extra travel time for your return journey, as local roads can experience temporary increases in traffic volume immediately after a large event concludes.
Things to Do Near St Thomas Arena
Walkable
Central Park Mendota Heights
This expansive local park offers numerous recreational opportunities, including walking trails, playgrounds, and open green spaces perfect for a pre- or post-event stroll. It's a great spot to let younger attendees burn off energy or for groups to relax in a natural setting. The park features athletic fields and picnic areas, making it a versatile destination for families visiting the area. During warmer months, it's a pleasant spot to enjoy the Minnesota landscape before heading to the arena.
Mendota Heights · 1.2 miDuffy's Sports Grill
While technically a restaurant, Duffy's also serves as a casual spot for visitors looking for a relaxed atmosphere near the arena. It's a place where you can grab a bite to eat or a drink without needing to travel far, offering a comfortable environment to unwind. Its proximity makes it convenient for a quick meal before or after an event, and it often provides a laid-back setting for smaller groups.
Mendota Heights · 0.9 mi5–15 Minutes Away
TCO Sports Complex
Located a short drive from St. Thomas Arena, the TCO Sports Complex is a premier destination for athletic events and training. It features state-of-the-art facilities for various sports, and while primarily focused on athletic performance, the complex itself is an impressive venue. It’s a hub for sports enthusiasts and can be a point of interest for those involved in competitive activities in the broader Twin Cities area.
Maplewood · 6.5 miThompson County Park
This larger county park offers more extensive natural beauty and recreational options, including hiking trails, fishing, and picnicking areas. It provides a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with the local environment. For those looking for outdoor activities beyond the arena, Thompson County Park offers a more extensive natural experience with amenities for a leisurely afternoon.
West St. Paul · 2.5 miBeyond the Event: Beyond the immediate vicinity, the greater St. Paul and Minneapolis area offer a wealth of attractions, from museums and theaters to extensive shopping and dining districts. These urban centers are easily accessible via the highway system, making them feasible destinations for day trips or evening excursions. Visitors seeking more varied entertainment or cultural experiences will find ample opportunities within a short drive of the arena.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near St Thomas Arena
Inside & Adjacent
Arena Concessions
Within St. Thomas Arena, you'll find convenient concession stands offering a range of classic arena fare. These options typically include hot dogs, popcorn, pretzels, and assorted beverages, perfect for a quick bite during an event. While not a fine-dining experience, the concessions provide essential fuel and refreshment to keep you comfortable throughout your visit. They are a reliable choice for grabbing something easily without leaving the venue.
On siteDuffy's Sports Grill
Duffy's Sports Grill is a popular local spot offering a casual dining experience with a menu of American pub favorites. It's known for its lively atmosphere, making it a good choice for groups looking for a relaxed meal before or after an event at the nearby arena. They serve a variety of appetizers, burgers, sandwiches, and entrees, accompanied by a selection of beers and other beverages. Its proximity makes it a go-to for convenient and satisfying dining.
Mendota Heights · 0.9 miNearby Gathering Spots
The Herkimer Pub & Kitchen
The Herkimer Pub & Kitchen provides a slightly more upscale yet still casual pub atmosphere. They focus on quality comfort food, craft beers, and a welcoming environment. It's an ideal spot for teams or families looking for a comfortable place to debrief after a game or tournament, offering a good selection of dishes that appeal to a wide range of tastes. The atmosphere encourages conversation and relaxation.
Mendota Heights · 1.4 miRed Lantern Bar & Grill
This local establishment offers a straightforward American dining experience with a focus on classic dishes and a friendly neighborhood vibe. Red Lantern is suitable for those seeking a dependable meal in a relaxed setting. It’s a place where you can enjoy familiar flavors and unwind without pretense, making it a practical choice for groups after an event.
Mendota Heights · 1.0 miLocal & Elevated Picks
W.A. Frost & Company
Located in the historic Cathedral Hill neighborhood of St. Paul, W.A. Frost offers a more refined dining experience within a beautifully restored Victorian mansion. Known for its elegant ambiance, extensive wine list, and creative American cuisine, it's a superb choice for special occasions or for those looking to enjoy a sophisticated meal. The patio seating in warmer months is particularly charming.
Saint Paul · 5.5 miSalut Bar Americain
Salut brings a touch of Parisian flair to St. Paul with its French-inspired American cuisine. This stylish bistro is celebrated for its excellent food, craft cocktails, and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a memorable meal. It's a distinguished option for visitors wanting to explore a bit of St. Paul's culinary scene after their arena event, offering a chic yet comfortable setting.
St. Paul · 5.0 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Traffic on main roads like Dodd Road can become congested just before and after major events at the arena.
- Weekends, especially during hockey season, see the highest volume of visitors heading to the arena complex.
- Local dining spots often fill up quickly on event nights, so reservations are recommended where available.
- Expect casual crowds at nearby pubs; they are accustomed to pre- and post-game gatherings.
- Consider exploring the nearby communities of West St. Paul or Inver Grove Heights for alternative dining options.
Weather & Seasons at St Thomas Arena
- Winter: Winter in the Twin Cities is characterized by cold temperatures, often dipping well below freezing, with frequent snowfall. Visitors should pack heavy coats, hats, gloves, and insulated footwear to stay warm during travel to and from the arena. Indoor arena events offer a welcome respite from the chill, but allow ample time for travel as roads can be slick and visibility may be reduced.
- Spring & early summer: Spring and early summer bring milder temperatures, with highs ranging from the 40s to the 70s Fahrenheit. This season is pleasant for outdoor activities before or after events, but occasional rain showers are common. Layers are recommended, as mornings can be cool and afternoons warm. Comfortable walking shoes are ideal for exploring local parks or venturing to nearby dining spots.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer typically features warm to hot and humid conditions, with temperatures often in the 80s Fahrenheit. Light, breathable clothing is best for this season. While the arena remains climate-controlled, time spent traveling or waiting outside can be warm. Stay hydrated and plan for sunny conditions, although thunderstorms can occur unexpectedly.
- Fall season: Fall brings crisp air and cooling temperatures, with days ranging from cool to cold, especially by late October and November. Temperatures can fluctuate significantly, so layering is essential. Pack sweaters, light jackets, and perhaps a warmer coat as the season progresses. Fall colors can make drives scenic, but be aware of the potential for frost or early snow by the end of the season.
- Rain & snow: Both rain and snow are common occurrences throughout the year, though most prevalent in spring and fall for rain, and winter for snow. Event schedules typically proceed rain or shine, but severe weather can cause delays or cancellations. Road conditions can deteriorate rapidly with heavy precipitation, impacting travel times. Have a flexible mindset and check local weather advisories for safety and planning.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: University of St. Thomas Hockey
- Neighborhood: Mendota Heights
- Nearest airport: Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)
- Parking: Dedicated arena lots
- Walkable district: Limited, with nearby parks and dining
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Cub Foods (Mendota Heights)
- Pharmacy: CVS Pharmacy (Mendota Heights)
- Urgent care: Allina Health Urgent Care (West St. Paul)
- Downtime: Central Park Mendota Heights or local cafes
- Pro tip: Check arena event schedules in advance for specific parking and entry guidelines.

