Looking for a fun winter day trip in Minnesota with your kids? Nestled along Highway 35 in northern Minnesota, Hinckley is undoubtedly a destination the whole family will enjoy! Hinckley offers a mix of adventure, cozy dining, and small-town charm that’s easy to enjoy in just one day (though, an entire weekend provides even more fun!). Whether you’re searching for winter things to do in Minnesota with kids or are looking for a new town to explore together, Hinckley is an excellent choice for families with kids of all ages. 

Start your day at one of the state’s most iconic sweet spots. Afterward, browse unique, locally-owned shops. Warm up with a cozy meal at a local hang-out. And, of course, we’ve also sprinkled in plenty of kid-approved activities! From fun winter things to do to places to eat in Hinckley with kids, this guide will help you make the most of your visit! Keep reading to plan your 1-day family itinerary for Hinckley.

Grab Coffee and a Morning Treat at Tobies Station

402 Fire Monument Rd, Hinckley, MN

One of the most iconic spots in town, Tobie’s Station is also one of the best places to grab something to eat for breakfast with kids in Hinckley. This local favorite is an ideal spot to fuel up before a day of exploring the many winter things to do in Hinckley with kids. 

Offering a blend of nostalgia and local flavor, Tobie’s is known for its world-famous caramel and cinnamon rolls. Grab a coffee and pastry to start your day. You’ll have plenty of options to choose from! In addition to their popular rolls, Tobie’s Station also offers glazed donuts, filled bismarcks, cookies, and more. After you’ve selected your tasty morning treats, grab a coffee from Caribou (located inside the store!).

Looking for a heartier start to the day? Pop over to Tobies Restaurant & Bakery instead. A Traveler’s Tradition Since 1948, Tobies Restaurant offers a variety of dynamite breakfast items, including omelets, French toast, griddle cakes, and more. They even have a dedicated kids’ menu! They also have an entire bakery case featuring their in-house-made goodies.

Whether you choose a quick pastry grab or a sit-down meal, Tobies’s welcoming atmosphere and the variety of locally made goods, from Minnesota apparel to gourmet caramel rolls, make it a must-stop on this itinerary. 

Go Thrifting and Explore Downtown Hinckley

One of the most unique things to do in Hinckley this winter is to explore the town’s charming downtown area, which is filled with hidden treasures for thrifting enthusiasts. 

Start your adventure at Thriftee Troll (108 Main St E), where you’ll find an eclectic mix of glassware, trinkets, and home goods. Don’t miss Grandma’s Thrift Store (125 Main St E), a thrifter’s paradise with secondhand clothes, purses, and home decor. Add a stop at Family Pathways Thrift Store (112 Main St E) for even more thrifty finds! Meanwhile, musical families will also enjoy checking out Moustique Music & Boutique (103 Main St E), featuring musical goods and gifts. Those interested in something a little more rustic or cabin-perfect, head over to Beaver Meadows (4201 Old Hwy 61 S). Finally, antique lovers will enjoy browsing through Antiques America (327 Fire Monument Rd), packed with vintage items from comic books to cookie jars. It’s a collector’s paradise, with several rooms to go treasure hunting. 

If you’re looking for sweet treats or locally made gifts, April’s Candies & Gifts (202 Old Hwy 61 S) is the perfect stop. You can’t miss them along old Highway 61! Alternatively, Daggett’s Fresh Foods offers a small collection of unique gifts alongside groceries for a quick snack or picnic-goers. With so many options, you’ll find yourself treasure-hunting for hours in Hinckley’s cozy downtown!

While the Hinckley Fire Museum isn’t open in the winter, you’ll also find this building downtown near an old train car. Kids can race up the access ramp and take a peek inside. Nearby, you’ll also find a ball field if kids need to burn a little extra energy.

Enjoy Lunch at a Local Cafe

305 Old Hwy 61 S, Hinckley, MN 55037

Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s time to decide where to eat lunch in Hinckley with your kids. Families love the Whistle Stop Café! Located along old Highway 61 in downtown Hinckley, this cozy spot serves up American comfort food the whole family will devour. Plus, their hearty portions are perfect for refueling during your winter adventures!

From breakfast served all day, including pancakes and omelets, to inviting lunch options like daily soups, burgers, and Hot Beef Sandwiches, there’s something to please every appetite. Plus, the dedicated kids’ menu will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Don’t forget to try one of their mouthwatering pies (the Sour Cream & Raisin is a local favorite!). It’s the best way to wrap up your meal before heading back out to explore more of Hinckley with your kids.

Catch a Movie at Grand Cinema

845 Weber Ave S, Hinckley, MN

Catching a family movie at Grand Cinema is a great way to relax and unwind, making it one of the winter things to do in Hinckley with kids. This locally owned family business features first-run films with digital sound and picture, making it a top spot on any 1-day family itinerary for Hinckley. 

While you’re there, be sure to visit the concession stand for freshly popped popcorn with real butter and a variety of sweet, savory, and salty treats. Still hungry? You can order artisanal pizza or appetizers from the on-site pizza kitchen, and they’ll even bring it right to your seat! It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a cozy movie night without missing out on the fun.

Throw a Strike + Get Dinner at the Rival House

777 Lady Luck Dr, Hinckley, MN | *21+ After 9 PM

For a fun-filled evening to end your day of winter things to do in Hinckley for families, head over to Rival House (located in Grand Casino) for some family-friendly entertainment! As part of your 1-day family itinerary for Hinckley, Rival House offers a four-lane bowling alley with HyperBowling, which makes the game more interactive and fun for all ages. If bowling isn’t your thing, try your hand at arcade games like skeeball, billiards, and shuffleboard. 

Afterward, grab a delicious meal together, where you can enjoy a variety of appetizers or even catch a live performance from local bands. It’s a great way to recap your exciting day in Hinckley with your family! With so much to do under one roof, Rival House is the perfect way to wind down your family adventure in Hinckley!

While Rival House is located inside the Grand Casino, it has its own entrance away from the gambling hall. If an adult in your party likes to gamble, this is a great spot to divide and conquer as a family. One parent or grandparents can check out the casino, while the other adults and kids throw some strikes together!  

More Winter Things to Do and Places to Eat in Hinckley with Kids

Looking for more winter things to do and places to eat Hinckley with kids? Whether you want to make some swaps to this itinerary or you’re extending your stay, here are a few more family-friendly things to do in town!

• Explore St. Croix State Park, Minnesota’s largest state park, featuring riverside trails, unique history, wildlife spotting, and more.
• Willard Munger State Trail stretches 70 miles through Central Minnesota and is the state’s gateway to Lake Superior, even connecting Hinckley to Duluth (with some trails branching off along the way). The trail is paved, making it a great option for biking and walking in the summer, and snowmobiling in the winter.
• Chengwatana State Forest offers x-county skiing and 20 miles of snowmobiling.
• El Tucan is a Mexican restaurant offering street tacos, burritos, molcajetes and more. They also offer a dedicated kids’ menu.
• Bogey’s on Main is a low-key hometown pub serving nostalgic burgers, tavern-style pizzas, and more. It is located in the heart of downtown.

Thanks for Stopping By Hinckley with Your Kids!

A winter day trip to Hinckley is a great way to explore the state and have fun with your family! With plenty of kid-friendly outdoor adventures, local flavors, and family activities, our charming town makes for a great day out together! From exploring the many winter things to do in Hinckley with kids, like hiking, bowling, or thrifting, to enjoying a cozy meal at one of the town’s local spots, you’re sure to create lasting memories. We hope this 1-day family itinerary for Hinckley helps you and your family have a blast this winter. Thank you for supporting our local businesses and community!