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Viking Lakes

4.7
·228 reviews·Eagan, United States

Viking Lakes in Eagan, MN, transforms into a festive hub with dazzling light shows, thrilling ice festivals, and outdoor winter fun.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter Evenings

Festive light shows & ice activities

CrowdHigh
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Entrance

Viking Lakes

Best Time

Winter Evenings

Festive light shows & ice activities

CrowdHigh

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Viking Lakes in Eagan, MN, transforms into a festive hub with dazzling light shows, thrilling ice festivals, and outdoor winter fun.

4.7
(228 reviews)

"Experience the magic of lights, skate on outdoor rinks, and conquer the world's largest ice maze!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Book Light Show Tickets Early

Magic of Lights is priced per vehicle; book ahead to secure your spot and avoid disappointment!

⛸️ Free Ice Skating

Bring your own skates for free outdoor ice skating at Winter SKOLstice, or rent for $5.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.7 · 228 reviews

Type

Sports Activity Location

♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Magic of Lights

Magic of Lights

Viking Lakes

A dazzling drive-through holiday light display featuring over a mile of festive scenes and animations.

Winter SKOLstice

Winter SKOLstice

Viking Lakes

An outdoor winter wonderland with free ice skating, warming houses, and festive activities.

Minnesota Ice Festival

Minnesota Ice Festival

Viking Lakes

Experience the world's largest ice maze, ice slides, bars, and carving competitions.

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Planning Your Visit

Seasonal Events & Timing

Viking Lakes hosts popular seasonal events like Magic of Lights and Winter SKOLstice. Check event dates and times carefully, as they are often temporary and have specific operating windows. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for drive-through light shows.

Hotel & Facility Access

The Omni Viking Lakes Hotel is a key part of the complex, offering amenities like pools and dining. If visiting for events, consider booking accommodation early. Be aware that some areas, like practice fields, may have specific access times or event-related restrictions.

Best Times

When
Winter Evenings
Why
Festive light shows & ice activities
Crowd
High
When
Holiday Season
Why
Peak for Magic of Lights
Crowd
High
When
January - February
Why
Minnesota Ice Festival
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

We had so much fun tonight at the Magic of Lights drive through Holiday Lights. This is located at Viking Lakes, in Eagan Minnesota. 🎄♥️ #magicoflights #christmaslights #holidaylights #christmastree #christmasmagic @Magic of Lights
@mainstreetfam
1K likes • 21.3K views

🚗 Book Light Show Tickets Early

Magic of Lights is priced per vehicle; book ahead to secure your spot and avoid disappointment! TikTok

⛸️ Free Ice Skating

Bring your own skates for free outdoor ice skating at Winter SKOLstice, or rent for $5. TikTok

Get some hot cocoa and drive through more than a mile of dazzling light displays at The Magic of Lights at Viking Lakes 🎄 Tickets are priced per vehicle so send this to your crew to enjoy together! 📍Magic of Lights | Eagan, MN #minnesotalife #mnblogger #holidaylights #christmaspopup #christmasactivities @Winter Skolstice @carrie_the_moment
@minneapaula
513 likes • 30.2K views
Magical holiday lights in Eagan ✨🎄 Did my first ever drive-thru display and it was such a blast! Ended the night at Winter Skolstice which made it even better. Running now through 1/3/26 it’s the perfect festive outing with family or friends! [Gifted Collaboration] @Magic of Lights #twincities #christmaslights #eaganmn #holidayactivities #minnesota
@onlyaubss
13.7K likes • 278.3K views

🏨 Stay at Omni Viking Lakes

Convenient location for events, with amenities like pools. TikTok

❄️ Check Event Schedules

Magic of Lights ends early Jan, while ice events run later. Plan accordingly! TikTok+1

If you’re in Minnesota, be sure to check out Winter SKOLstice! My favorite winter and holiday event in Minnesota. 🎄🪵✨♥️ #winterskolstice #minnesota #holidays #christmas #vikinglakes #winter #holidayseason #fyp
@hailey.tester
70 likes • 2.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Book Light Show Tickets Early

Magic of Lights is priced per vehicle; book ahead to secure your spot and avoid disappointment! TikTok

⛸️ Free Ice Skating

Bring your own skates for free outdoor ice skating at Winter SKOLstice, or rent for $5. TikTok

🏨 Stay at Omni Viking Lakes

Convenient location for events, with amenities like pools. TikTok

❄️ Check Event Schedules

Magic of Lights ends early Jan, while ice events run later. Plan accordingly! TikTok+1

☕ Warm Up at Warming Haus

Enjoy hot cocoa and cozy up after skating at the Winter SKOLstice warming house. TikTok+1

What Travellers Say

4.7
(228 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Viking Lakes is highly praised for its vibrant seasonal events, particularly the Magic of Lights and Winter SKOLstice, offering festive fun for all ages. Visitors appreciate the convenience of the Omni Viking Lakes Hotel and the unique winter attractions like the ice maze. Some minor issues include last-minute event cancellations due to weather and the need to check specific event schedules.

"This was an event between Tradehome shoes and the Vikings. Each registered foster child received new tennis shoes, backpack and a 3 pack of socks. The kids also got a meal along with the opportunity to play games on the practice field."

Loretta Lundquist

"I come here every year for the night practice for training camp. It's a wonderful time each year and a fantastic atmosphere. The Vikings organize everything efficiently and there's plenty to do for kids and adults alike. I'm grateful to be so close to such a great organization and it's evident that ownership cares so strongly given the investment in facilities like the complex found in Eagan. 5 stars from me!"

Adam Morgan

"Wonderful guys working the front. Self guided is totally the way to go. My 81 year old biggest fan had the time of her life revisiting Tarkington,- Thielen!"

Leslie “Rayne” Swensen

What People Like

Magical light displays
Fun winter activities
Convenient hotel location

What People Dislike

Event cancellations
Need to check schedules

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Viking Lakes is located in Eagan, Minnesota. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available for events. If you're staying at the Omni Viking Lakes Hotel, it's right on-site. TikTok

While specific public transport routes directly to Viking Lakes might be limited, you can check local Eagan or Twin Cities transit schedules for bus routes that get you close to the area. Ride-sharing services are also a convenient option. TikTok

For drive-through events like Magic of Lights, follow the designated routes. For Winter SKOLstice and the Ice Festival, the area is generally walkable, but check event maps for specific layouts. TikTok+1

Parking fees can vary depending on the event. For Magic of Lights, the ticket price is per vehicle, which typically covers parking. For other events like Winter SKOLstice, parking is usually included or free. TikTok

If you're staying at the Omni Viking Lakes Hotel, you can easily walk to most events. Other nearby hotels might require a short drive or ride-share. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Magic of Lights is priced per vehicle, making it a great option for groups. It's recommended to purchase tickets in advance online to secure your spot and potentially get better rates. TikTok

Ice skating at Winter SKOLstice is free if you bring your own skates. Skate rentals are available for a fee. Access to the general Winter SKOLstice area is typically free, but specific attractions within might have separate tickets. TikTok+1

Yes, the Minnesota Ice Festival, featuring attractions like the ice maze, usually requires a ticket. It's advisable to check their official website or ticketing partners for pricing and to purchase in advance, especially for popular times. TikTok

Operating hours vary significantly by event and season. Magic of Lights typically runs from late November through early January. Winter SKOLstice and the Ice Festival usually run from January through February. Always check the specific event's schedule. TikTok+1

While some events may offer on-site ticket sales, it's highly recommended to buy tickets online in advance. This is especially true for popular drive-through events like Magic of Lights to guarantee entry and avoid long queues. TikTok

🎫 🌟 Onsite Experience

Viking Lakes is a large complex that includes the Omni Viking Lakes Hotel, which offers amenities like dining and pools. The area is also home to the Minnesota Vikings' practice facilities, which sometimes host public events or training camp viewings. TikTok

Absolutely! Events like Magic of Lights and Winter SKOLstice are designed for all ages. The ice skating and ice festival attractions are particularly popular with families. TikTok+1

The Omni Viking Lakes Hotel has dining options, including Kyndred Hearth. During events, there are often food vendors offering seasonal treats like hot cocoa and snacks. TikTokReddit

While the main facilities are for the team, the Vikings sometimes host public events like training camp practices. Keep an eye on the official Minnesota Vikings website for any public access opportunities. Reddit

For ice skating and outdoor festivals, dress in warm layers, including hats, gloves, and waterproof boots. For Magic of Lights, you'll be in your car, so comfort is key. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography Tips

The Magic of Lights drive-through offers stunning illuminated scenes perfect for car-based photos. Winter SKOLstice provides opportunities for festive shots with ice sculptures and skaters. The Minnesota Ice Festival's ice maze and carvings are also highly photogenic. TikTok+2

Generally, personal photography is allowed and encouraged. However, professional photography or videography might require special permits, especially during organized events. Always check event-specific rules. TikTok

For Magic of Lights, nighttime is essential to capture the full effect of the lights. For Winter SKOLstice and the Ice Festival, late afternoon into the evening offers a good balance of daylight and illuminated displays. TikTok+1

Yes, many visitors capture photos and videos from inside their vehicles during the Magic of Lights drive-through. Be mindful of traffic flow and safety. TikTok+1

Drone usage is typically restricted at event venues and private complexes like Viking Lakes due to safety and privacy concerns. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise by event organizers. TikTok

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