Best time to visit
Minnesota offers year-round experiences, from summer lakeside adventures to winter wonderland explorations. The best time to visit is during the warmer months of May through September, when temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 60°F ( 16°C) to 85°F ( 29°C). This period is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and visiting iconic attractions like the Mall of America or the state's many lakes and parks. The Minnesota State Fair, held in late August, is a major highlight.
Winter (November to March) brings heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures, making it a haven for winter sports enthusiasts. Popular events like the Saint Paul Winter Carnival offer unique cold-weather experiences. At the same time, those looking for quieter, more affordable stays will find lower prices and fewer crowds during this season.
Fall (September to October) provides mild weather and stunning fall foliage, perfect for scenic drives and outdoor exploration.
32 things to do in Minnesota
Ice Castles
One of the best ways to spend a winter day is to visit a magical ice castle
Minnesota State Fair
Witness the largest state fair in the USA by daily attendance
Saint Paul Winter Carnival
One of the oldest and most popular annual festivals in Minnesota
Stillwater Lumberjack Days
Celebration of the people, history and heritage of Minnesota
Boats and Bluegrass Festival
An outdoor festival on the banks of the Mississippi
Ice Shards on the Great Lakes
The ice cover gets shattered to knife-sharp pieces as spring takes over winter
Minnesota Fall Colors
Immerse yourself in the rainbow of unbelievable fall foliage
Northern Lights in Minnesota
Minnesota’s location makes it one of the best states to view aurora borealis
Ely Winter Festival
Winter celebration with an emphasis on arts in Northern Minnesota
Sandstone Ice Festival
Welcome to Minnesota's ice climbing mecca for the celebration of all winter things
Balsam Lake WinterFest
Famous drag races and other seasonal activities on the shore of the largest lake in the area
Christmas Lights
White Minnesota Christmas would be incomplete without the magic of lights
Chinese New Year
The joyful family-friendly event at the international foods market in Phillips neighborhood of Minneapolis
Hummingbird Migration
To see the world's tiniest and most lovable bird is a rare but memorable experience in Minnesota
Sandhill Crane Migration in Minnesota
Fall is the best time to observe one of the oldest bird species on the planet
Gooseberry Falls
A heart-stoppingly scenic series of waterfalls on the Lake Superior shoreline
Fall Colors
Minnesota's Twin Cities have many locations to witness the beauty of the fall foliage
Cherry Blossom
Even though the climate of Minnesota does not favor cherry trees, St. Paul still boasts a place to enjoy beautiful sakura flowers
Monticello Lions Brewfest
Lots of beer and live music on the Mississippi River
Coon Rapids 4th of July Fireworks, Parade & Events
Don't have plans on the 4th of July? Say no more and read this article!
Lake Minnetonka 4th of July Fireworks in Excelsior
Have a blast at Excelsior Bay in the suburbs of Minneapolis
Defeat of Jesse James Days
A historical reenactment of the last raid of the famous James-Younger Gang
Twin Cities Jazz Festival
A great occasion to appreciate the laid-back vibes of jazz music
Minnesota Renaissance Festival
The long-standing fall tradition in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul area
Minneapolis-Saint Paul 4th of July Fireworks & Events
The best Independence Day celebrations in Twin Cities
Uptown Art Fair
A vibrant celebration of Minneapolis' unconventional art scene in the bustling district of Uptown
