When Is the Best Time to Visit Minnesota?

Minnesota is a great Midwest getaway destination whatever time of year you travel there. Sure, while the warmer spring and summer seasons are obviously more popular with tourists, the cooler months of late fall and winter aren’t without their perks.

In fact, whether you’re drawn by snow-covered wilderness, cool, clear lakes (the state nickname is “Land of 10,000 Lakes”), or even that stunning fall foliage, the “best time” to visit Minnesota really depends on your personal interests. Some travelers might be looking for skiing and winter sports, while others are drawn for its hiking trails, beaches, or even its many fun festivals. Whatever your pleasure, these insights into what makes each season special will help you plan a memorable trip to Minnesota.

Winter in Minnesota (December - February)

Winter in Minnesota is nothing short of magical, especially for those who love snow and outdoor sports. With temperatures often dropping well below freezing (averages at this time of year are between 5°F to 25°F), Minnesota transforms into a snow-covered playground that’s ideal for s skiing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing, to name but a few activities. Resorts in areas like Lutsen Mountains and Giants Ridge attract skiers and snowboarders from across the Midwest, while the state’s extensive network of snowmobile trails offers more than 22,000 miles of thrilling adventures.

Minnesota’s winter tourism also revolves around popular festivals such as the Saint Paul Winter Carnival, the nation’s oldest winter festival, which brings ice sculptures, parades, and winter fun to the state capital in January. Also in January, the Great Northern Festival celebrates winter with outdoor art, sports, and events. Seeking a quieter escape? The frozen landscapes of Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA) provide a beautiful backdrop for snowshoeing, winter camping, and stargazing.

Winter Tips & Tactics: Despite freezing temperatures, if you’re outdoors and moving about, a sunny day can soon warm you up, so dress in layers. Investing in proper winter gear to stay warm during outdoor activities is money well spent. Take advantage of early morning starts for snow sports as temperatures are generally warmer midday, and always keep a winter emergency kit in the car, including blankets, a few extra sweaters, snacks, and a snow scraper for those frozen windshields.

Spring in Minnesota (March - May)

Spring in Minnesota sees the state come alive as temperatures warm to an average of 30°F to 65°F and the snow melts, making way for blooming flowers and the return of those lush landscapes. Though early spring can be unpredictable with lingering cold, by late April and May, the state becomes a beautiful retreat for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors without the summer crowds. Parks like Minneopa State Park and Itasca State Park are prime destinations for springtime hikes with a backdrop of cascading waterfalls, awakening wildlife, and budding trees.

Spring is also festival season in Minnesota, with the state hosting events like the Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival (MSPIFF) and Art in Bloom, a celebration of floral artistry at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. The fresh air and increasing warmth make spring an ideal time for activities like bird watching, biking, and enjoying farmers' markets as they open for the season.

Spring Tips & Tactics: Be prepared for unpredictable weather by packing both warm and waterproof clothing. Spring is a great time to visit state parks, but check trail conditions as some may still be muddy from melting snow.

Summer in Minnesota (June - August)

Like much of the Midwestern region, summer is undoubtedly the peak tourism season in Minnesota. Known as the "Land of 10,000 Lakes," Minnesota's summer tourism revolves around water-based activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming, with popular lake destinations like Lake Minnetonka, Lake Superior, and the Boundary Waters luring families and adventure seekers alike.

Summer is also a time for iconic festivals and fairs. The Minnesota State Fair, one of the largest in the United States, runs in late August and offers a mix of live music, agricultural displays, food vendors, and amusement rides. In addition, visitors flock to the Twin Cities of Minneapolis-Saint Paul for outdoor concerts, theater performances, and sports events. The warm, sunny weather also makes it the best time for road trips, camping, and enjoying Minnesota’s many scenic byways such as the 47-mile Avenue of Pines Scenic Byway and the 220-mile long Glacial Ridge Trail Scenic Byway.

Summer Tips & Tactics: Book accommodations and campsites early as summer is peak travel season, especially if you’re planning on staying near popular lakes and parks. And with temperatures at times reaching highs of 85°F, bring plenty of sunscreen (bug spray is another must for those pursuing outdoor activities).

Fall in Minnesota (September - November)

Fall is a fantastic time to visit Minnesota, particularly for those in search of stunning autumn foliage. By late September, temperatures dip to highs of around 70°F, making it an ideal time to see the state’s forests transform into a vibrant display of reds, oranges, and yellows. Leaf peepers flock to scenic drives along the North Shore of Lake Superior and along the Mississippi River Valley, both extremely popular destinations during this beautiful time of year. Hikers and bikers also take to the trails in places like Jay Cooke State Park and Tettegouche State Park to enjoy the crisp air and panoramic views.

Fall is also a season for harvest festivals and related seasonal activities. Apple orchards, pumpkin patches, and corn mazes abound on farms across the state, offering quintessential autumn experiences for families. Oktoberfest celebrations, particularly in cities like New Ulm, bring a taste of German culture with beer, food, music, and dancing. The cooler temperatures and thinning crowds also make fall a perfect time for those looking to explore Minnesota’s cultural and natural attractions without the heat or summer bustle.

Fall Tips & Tactics: Plan your leaf-peeping trips for mid-September to early October to catch the peak of the state’s spectacular fall foliage. Cooler weather is ideal for hiking, so pack a light jacket and layers to adjust to temperature changes throughout the day.

Minnesota’s Year-Round Appeal

While certain seasons bring distinct highlights, Minnesota’s charm can in fact be enjoyed year-round. Many attractions, like the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden and Mall of America, the state’s top shopping destination, are open every season and offer a fun blend of culture, shopping, and entertainment. And the best of the state’s hiking trails, museums, and historical sites remain accessible year-round, making Minnesota a flexible destination for travelers regardless of the time of year, and their interests.