Traveling to Lapland often means braving cold temperatures and dreaming of snowy adventures. One of the highlights in Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi is Snowman World, a place where snow and ice take center stage, creating a wonderland of sculptures, activities, and chilly fun. The experience also includes a dinner in the Snow restaurant, built entirely from snow and ice, where you can enjoy Lappish cuisine in a truly unique setting.
What makes this experience particularly appealing are the snow activities like ice skating and sliding on icy hills, the stunning snow art in the Ice bar, and the atmosphere of the snow restaurant itself. The only potential caveat? Given its outdoor nature and weather dependency, some activities might be limited during certain conditions. Still, for those seeking a mix of adventure and culinary novelty, this tour fits well for families, couples, or anyone wanting a taste of Arctic life.
If you’re considering adding this to your Arctic itinerary, you’ll love the chance to combine fun in the snow with a memorable dining experience. It’s perfect for those who want to see the icy artistry of Lapland up close, enjoy some active snow play, and indulge in hearty local fare — all in a setting that’s truly unlike anything else.
Key Points
- Unique Snow and Ice Environment: The entire experience is set in a snow and ice wonderland, offering impressive sculptures and icy decor.
- Fun Snow Activities: Ice skating and sliding on icy hills provide lively options for all ages.
- Memorable Dining: The snow restaurant offers a 3-course meal with local Lappish dishes, served in a stunning icy setting.
- Atmospheric Ice Bar: Enjoy a drink in a bar made entirely of ice, adding to the Arctic vibe.
- Weather-Dependent: Some activities and opening hours depend on weather conditions, so plan accordingly.
- Inclusive & Accessible: Entrance to Snowman World and dinner are included, with options for flexible booking and cancellation.
A Deep Dive into Snowman World and the Snow Restaurant Experience
Visiting Snowman World in Santa Claus Village is like stepping into a winter fairy tale, where snow and ice are crafted into art and entertainment. The journey begins with entry into Snowman World, where you’re greeted by towering snow sculptures, shimmering ice creations, and a lively atmosphere that captures the spirit of Arctic life.
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Snow Activities and Exploration
One of the best parts of this experience is the variety of snow activities that are included. Reviewers mention ice skating as a favorite — a perfect way to glide over a smooth, icy surface with a scenic backdrop of snow-laden trees and sculptures. For those seeking more thrills, ice tubing down a well-built icy hill can bring out the kid in you.
Most visitors appreciate the stunning snow art within the Ice bar and Snow restaurant. The intricate sculptures and snow carvings aren’t just decorative; they create an immersive environment that makes you feel like you’ve entered a winter fantasy. Several reviewers, such as Jannelle, highlighted how impressive the snow sculptures were, noting that the walls and decor contributed significantly to the atmosphere.
The Snow Restaurant: A Culinary Highlight
After playing in the snow, you’ll head to the Snow restaurant, where the real magic happens. Built entirely from snow and ice, the restaurant offers a dining experience that sparks awe. The setting is cool but cozy, with ambient lighting illuminating the snow walls, creating a magical, almost surreal ambiance.
The menu features a three-course meal showcasing local flavors. Jannelle enjoyed a hearty elk dish, and others have praised the quality of the food, describing it as tasty and well-presented. The experience begins with a mushroom soup served with fresh bread, warming you up before the main course, and ends with a lingonberry-caramel bavaroise, a dessert that beautifully combines local berries with sweet caramel.
Unique Touches and Extras
One of the standout features is the ice bar inside the restaurant, where you can sip a drink while admiring the snow and ice art. Drinks are served in handcrafted ice glasses, adding to the cool (literally) vibe. Several reviewers, including Cobie, described the ice bar as “VIB,” emphasizing the memorable environment.
Some visitors extend their experience with additional activities like visiting the Snow Castle or exploring more of Santa Claus Village, which makes this tour part of a broader Arctic adventure.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details & Considerations
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours — perfect for fitting into a full day of Arctic touring.
- Opening Hours: Vary by season, from 10:00 to 20:00 in early winter and 11:00 to 19:00 later in winter, weather permitting.
- Included: Entrance to Snowman World and dinner, with optional extras like drinks paid separately.
- Accessibility: The experience is wheelchair accessible, and guides speak both English and Finnish.
- What to Bring: Warm clothing is essential — layers, thermal wear, hats, gloves, and waterproof gear are recommended, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors.
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Review Highlights & Authentic Insights
Guests have shared some thoughtful insights. Derek C. mentions the great service and ambiance at the restaurant, emphasizing a warm and welcoming environment despite the chilly setting. Jannelle appreciated the fun atmosphere, noting that the ice shots and snow sculptures made for a memorable visit, especially since she enjoyed the labyrinth slide afterward.
Cobie pointed out that although the food wasn’t the star, the VIB environment and snow environment made up for it, describing the experience as “memorable” thanks to the ice tables and chairs. She also appreciated the long slide and ice bar, which extended the fun after dinner.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This tour suits travelers who value visual spectacle and unique culinary experiences. Families will enjoy the snow activities and the lively atmosphere, while couples can appreciate the romantic, fairy-tale setting of the snow restaurant. It’s also perfect for adventure seekers eager to indulge in Arctic fun and photo enthusiasts wanting to capture the snow art.
However, it’s best suited for those prepared for cold weather and willing to dress appropriately. If outdoor weather conditions are harsh, some activities may be limited, so flexibility is key.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
For anyone visiting Rovaniemi and Santa Claus Village, a trip to Snowman World and the Snow restaurant offers a blend of fun, culture, and stunning visuals. The snow activities are simple yet engaging, and the dining experience underlines the magic of Arctic craftsmanship.
The experience’s value is heightened by the quality of the environment — snow sculptures, ice bar, and cozy restaurant — which makes it more than just a meal or activity. It’s a chance to learn about Lapland’s icy charm without needing to venture far outside Santa Claus Village.
While weather can influence some parts of the experience, the overall package remains a distinctive Arctic adventure that stays with you long after you leave. If you’re after a fun, photogenic, and delicious Arctic encounter, this tour checks all those boxes.
FAQ
Is it necessary to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead ensures you secure your preferred time slot, especially during busy winter periods.
Are children allowed?
Most reviews suggest the activities are suitable for families, and the environment is family-friendly, but check specific age restrictions if available.
What should I wear?
Dress warmly — layers, thermal clothing, hats, gloves, and waterproof outerwear are essential for comfort.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if weather or plans shift.
Are drinks included in the tour?
No, drinks are paid separately, but the ice bar experience is highly recommended for a memorable Arctic toast.
Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is accessible for wheelchairs, making it inclusive for most visitors.
What if the weather is very cold or snowy?
Activities depend on weather conditions; some may be limited or modified. Dress appropriately to stay comfortable.
How long does the dinner last?
The dinner typically lasts around an hour or more, fitting within the 2-hour overall experience.
Can I visit Snowman World without the dinner?
The ticket includes entrance to Snowman World, so you can explore the snow sculptures and activities independently if preferred.
To sum it up, a visit to Snowman World and the Snow restaurant in Santa Claus Village offers a fun, visually stunning, and tasty Arctic escape. It’s a great choice for those wanting to combine outdoor snow play with a unique dining adventure in a winter wonderland. Pack warm, plan ahead, and prepare for a memorable taste of Lapland’s icy charm.
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