Family-Friendly Guide to MN Wild Hockey Tickets and Game Day Fun

Overview

Planning a family outing to an NHL game in Saint Paul is about more than just grabbing MN Wild hockey tickets. It’s about crafting a day that’s exciting, comfortable, and memorable for every member of the family — from toddlers experiencing their first hockey roar to grandparents who’ve been fans for decades. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make your Minnesota Wild game day smooth, affordable, and packed with fun.

1. Best Sections for Families at Xcel Energy Center

When you bring the kids, seat location is everything. The Xcel Energy Center offers a variety of seating options, and the right choice can mean fewer meltdowns, quicker restroom breaks, and a better overall view for everyone.

Lower Bowl Near Family Amenities (Sections 106–107 and 122–123)
These lower bowl sections are prime family territory. They’re located near restrooms, including family-specific facilities, and close to a variety of concession stands. This means you can grab snacks and get back to your seats without missing too much action. Lower bowl seats also give kids a close-up view of the players, which makes the game more engaging.

Upper-Level Center Ice (Sections 205–207 and 217–219)
For families on a tighter budget looking for MN Wild hockey tickets, upper-level center ice seats are a smart pick. You get a full, balanced view of the entire rink, which is great for explaining the game to kids. These seats also tend to be less crowded in the aisles, making them easier to navigate with younger children.

Club Level (200-Series)
If comfort is a top priority, Club Level seating offers wider, padded chairs, shorter concession lines, and exclusive dining options. This is ideal for families who want a little extra breathing room and a calmer atmosphere during the game with MN Wild hockey tickets.

Private Group Spaces
Booking a group package in a suite or the Puck Wall Lounge can be a game changer for families. You’ll have space to move around, store belongings, and let kids enjoy the game without worrying about disturbing other fans. It’s also a great option for celebrating birthdays or milestones with the whole extended family.

2. Special Family Ticket Packages & Promotions

The Minnesota Wild have put real thought into making hockey more accessible and enjoyable for families, and it shows in their MN Wild hockey tickets offerings. Whether you’re looking for an all-in-one deal or a unique memory-making experience, there’s something for every budget and age group.

Family Pack Deals
One of the most convenient ways to enjoy a game without worrying about extra costs is the Family Pack. These bundles include your MN Wild hockey tickets along with meal vouchers so you can feed the whole crew without pulling out your wallet again inside the arena. Vouchers usually cover a hot dog, a bag of chips, and a drink — classic game-day fare that keeps kids happy. This package also streamlines the evening; no need to hunt for the best deal  on MN Wild hockey tickets once you’re inside.

Kids’ Day Games
For younger fans, nothing beats a Kids’ Day game. Held several times each season, these matchups feature a carnival-like atmosphere with face painting, balloon twisting, and visits from Nordy, the Minnesota Wild’s ever-energetic mascot. Pre-game activities are designed to keep little ones engaged before the puck drops, making the entire night feel like an event, not just a game.

Group Experiences
If you’re attending with extended family, a school group, or a youth hockey team, consider the group MN Wild hockey tickets packages. Buying in bulk not only gives you discounted pricing on MN Wild hockey tickets, it also opens the door to once-in-a-lifetime experiences — from riding the Zamboni during an intermission to posing for a photo right at center ice. These experiences require booking ahead but deliver memories your kids will talk about for years.

3. Kid-Focused Amenities & Promotions

The Xcel Energy Center has earned its reputation as one of the most family-friendly arenas in the NHL. Every detail, from the layout of the concourse to the food selection, has been planned with young fans in mind.

Family Restrooms & Nursing Rooms
Each level of the arena has dedicated family restrooms, offering privacy and extra space for parents with young children. Nursing rooms provide a quiet environment for feeding or just a break from the noise and excitement.

Kid-Friendly Concessions
While traditional arena staples like hot dogs and popcorn are always available, families will also find a variety of kid-approved alternatives. Mini pizzas, soft pretzels, fruit cups, and ice cream are popular picks, and allergy-conscious families will appreciate clearly labeled menu boards. Having these options means you can keep your kids satisfied without settling for a single type of food.

Interactive Fan Zones
The concourse isn’t just a walkway; it’s part of the entertainment. The arena’s interactive fan zones let kids try hockey-themed games, take silly photos in team-themed booths, and learn about the Wild’s history in a way that feels fun rather than like a lecture. Arriving early to explore these zones is a must if you want to get the most value out of your MN Wild hockey tickets.

Safety Features
Parents can breathe easier thanks to the Tag-a-Kid program. This free service involves a wristband that contains your child’s seat location and your contact information. Should you get separated, staff can quickly reunite you. Combine that with attentive guest services staff and a security team used to working big family crowds, and you’ve got an environment where you can focus on the game instead of worrying about logistics.

4. Making the Most of Your MN Wild Hockey Tickets – Pre- and Post-Game Activities for Families

One of the best ways to stretch the value of your MN Wild hockey tickets is to turn game day into a full-day family adventure. The Xcel Energy Center is perfectly positioned in downtown Saint Paul, which means there’s plenty to do before and after the game that’s family-friendly, safe, and budget-aware.

Pre-Game Fun
Arriving early is not just about avoiding last-minute stress — it opens up a whole world of activities:

• Arena Tours (Select Days): On non-game days or early on game days, tours give families a behind-the-scenes look at the Wild’s locker rooms, press areas, and even the Zamboni garage. Booking these tours in advance makes your MN Wild hockey tickets experience extra special.

• Rice Park in Winter: Just a few blocks away, Rice Park offers an outdoor skating rink during the colder months. Bring your own skates or rent them on site to burn off some energy before heading to your seats.

• Team Store Shopping: The Hockey Lodge, located inside the arena, opens well before puck drop. This is the ideal time to grab jerseys, hats, or foam fingers without fighting post-game crowds.

Post-Game Options
The fun doesn’t have to end when the final horn sounds:

• Player Autograph Sessions: Certain home games include post-game autograph opportunities for kids. Check the promotions schedule ahead of time.

• Nearby Dining: Restaurants like Tom Reid’s Hockey City Pub or Cossetta’s Italian Market & Pizzeria stay busy after games and are family-friendly. Grab a late pizza or pasta and let the kids recap their favorite moments from the game.

• Light Rail Adventure: If you took the Green Line to the game, ride it a few stops to show the kids more of Saint Paul’s landmarks — it turns the trip home into part of the event.

By building traditions around your MN Wild hockey tickets, you’re not just attending a game — you’re creating a full day of memories that your kids will look forward to all season long.

5. What to Bring — and What to Leave at Home

Packing correctly can make the difference between a smooth, fun game day and one filled with unnecessary stress.

Bring These:

• Light Snacks & a Water Bottle: The arena allows certain sealed snacks for young children — check the current bag policy to be sure.

• Layered Clothing: Temperatures inside the arena can vary; dress in Wild gear with layers so kids stay comfortable.

• Ear Protection: The Wild’s goal horn is thrilling but loud — earmuffs can protect sensitive ears.

• Team Spirit Items: Small flags, foam fingers, or rally towels help kids feel like part of the action.

Leave These at Home:

• Large Bags: Oversized bags are not permitted; stick to small purses or clear bags to speed up entry.

• Outside Beverages: With the exception of infant bottles, outside drinks aren’t allowed.

• Bulky Toys or Gadgets: They take up space, can be distracting, and risk being lost in the excitement.

6. Sample Family Game-Day Timeline

Here’s a suggested schedule to maximize your experience with MN Wild hockey tickets:

2 Hours Before Game:
Arrive early, find parking or use the light rail, and head into the arena with your MN Wild hockey tickets to explore. Check out fan zones and get a feel for the concourse layout.

1 Hour Before Game:
Grab dinner from a family-friendly concession stand or redeem your meal vouchers. Let the kids choose their own food — it makes them feel involved.

Game Time:
Get to your seats before warm-ups so the kids can watch the players practice shots and interact with fans along the boards.

Intermissions:
Stretch your legs, use the restrooms, and pick up a small souvenir. The Wild team store has kid-specific apparel and fun items like stuffed mascots.

After the Game:
Wait a few minutes for the crowd to thin out, then take a family photo near the main entrance or the Herb Brooks statue outside the arena.

7. Insider Tips for a Smooth Family Outing

• Mobile Ticketing: Load your MN Wild hockey tickets onto your phone before you leave home. This speeds up entry and keeps your hands free.

• Split Responsibilities: If both parents are attending, take turns handling snack runs or bathroom trips so one adult always stays with the kids in their seats.

• Know the Rules: Brush up on arena policies regarding re-entry, strollers, and outside food.

• Pre-Game Education: Show the kids a short video on hockey rules and the Minnesota Wild’s history so they’re more engaged during the game.

Why Families Keep Coming Back

The combination of thoughtful seating options, family-focused packages, engaging amenities, and the electrifying atmosphere of an NHL game make MN Wild hockey tickets a winning choice for families year after year. Saint Paul’s Xcel Energy Center has mastered the balance between providing a high-energy sports environment and ensuring parents feel confident bringing their kids.

When you walk out after the final horn, you’re not just leaving with the memory of a hockey game — you’re leaving with a shared family experience that might just spark a lifelong love of the sport.