Minneapolis, Minnesota
The National Sports Center, located in Blaine, Minnesota (a suburb north of Minneapolis), is a massive multi-sport complex. In the "Sports Complexes" category, it is the world's largest amateur sports facility. Visitors should go to participate in or watch tournaments, particularly soccer, hockey, and golf.
The complex features over 50 soccer fields, a stadium, a golf course, and the Super Rink (8 sheets of ice). It hosts the USA Cup, the largest youth soccer tournament in the Western Hemisphere.
Watch youth and amateur sports tournaments. Skate at the Super Rink during public skate times. Play a round of golf at the Victory Links Golf Course. Visit the velodrome (if events are scheduled).
Summer is peak season for soccer tournaments like the USA Cup (July). Winter is busy for hockey. Weekends are generally when tournaments take place.
Admission to the complex grounds is free, but tournament entry fees may apply for spectators or teams. Parking is ample but can be crowded during major events. It is about 20 minutes north of downtown Minneapolis.
Concessions, restrooms, meeting rooms, and a welcome center are available. The Super Rink has a cafe. There is a residence hall for visiting teams.
If attending a major tournament, expect traffic and allow extra time. Bring a folding chair for watching soccer games. Check the schedule for public skating sessions if you want to be active.
Blaine offers shopping and dining. The complex is a destination in itself. Bunker Hills Regional Park is a short drive away.