Host State Information

   

Welcome to Minnesota, where the dynamic cities of Minneapolis, St. Paul, and beyond invite travelers seeking an unforgettable sporting experience. Dive into endless adventures, from urban delights to outdoor wonders, and discover the diverse array of attractions that define the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Whether you're here to cheer on your favorite team or explore the local sports culture, Minnesota offers endless opportunities for excitement and discovery. Plan Your Visit.

This information is provided by Explore Minnesota, a sponsor of the 2026 World Junior Championship.

Explore Minnesota is the state’s tourism agency, welcoming everyone to experience Minnesota's diverse destinations and vibrant cultures. Known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, Minnesota also proudly carries the title of the State of Hockey — a fitting nickname for a place where the sport is deeply rooted and passionately celebrated.

As a proud partner of the 2026 International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) World Junior Championship, we are here to help you plan your visit to Minnesota and see why Minnesota really is the Star of the North™. 

As you start planning your visit to the World Junior Championship, here are additional ways to experience the Star of the North.

MINNEAPOLIS – ST. PAUL

Minnesota’s state capital, St. Paul, and neighboring Minneapolis make up the Twin Cities, an incredibly rich and diverse area with dramatic skylines, exciting pro sports, award-winning theater, renowned restaurants and a booming craft beer scene.

MORE MINNESOTA TRAVEL INSPIRATION:  

Things to Do in Minneapolis and St. Paul 
Minnesota’s Best Kid-Friendly Things to Do
Take a Mighty Ducks-Themed Tour of Minnesota 
Where to See Hockey in Minnesota 
Take a Prince Themed Tour of Minnesota
Happenings in the Minneapolis-St. Paul Area
Minnesota’s Best Shopping 
Downtown Minneapolis Guide 

WHAT TO EAT

Food and Drink in Minnesota 

Get a Taste of Minnesota's Craft Beer, Wine & Spirits

St. Paul’s Best Restaurants

Minneapolis’ Best Restaurants

Vegetarian and Vegan Dining Across Minnesota 

WHERE TO STAY

Minneapolis – St. Paul’s Best Hotels

Minnesota’s Most Unique Accommodations

Places to Stay in Minnesota

OTHER HELPFUL LINKS

Star of the North Travel Stories and Itineraries

Live & Work in Minnesota

Order a free travel guide 

Sign up for our newsletter

For more trip planning inspiration, visit exploreminnesota.com.

World Juniors in the USA

  

The 2026 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship will mark just the seventh time the U.S. has hosted the event, the second in Minnesota. The first-ever U.S. host site was in Minneapolis/Saint Paul in 1982, followed by Anchorage, Alaska, in 1989; Boston in 1996; Grand Forks, North Dakota, in 2005; and Buffalo, New York, in both 2011 and 2018. The 2026 event marks the 50th edition of the IIHF World Junior Championship.