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About Minnesota
Minnesota occupies the northernmost tier of the contiguous United States, sharing a border with Canada and anchoring the Great Lakes region. The Twin Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul sit at the confluence of the Minnesota and Mississippi rivers and together hold over half the state's population. Minneapolis drives the cultural agenda: the Walker Art Center and Minneapolis Institute of Art are nationally ranked; the Mall of America in Bloomington draws 40 million visitors per year; the Minneapolis Skyway System (the world's longest, at 8 miles) connects 80 city blocks above street level. The North Shore Scenic Drive (US-61) traces Lake Superior's coast from Duluth to the Canadian border, passing Gooseberry Falls, Split Rock Lighthouse, and the Boundary Waters gateway town of Grand Marais. The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) is one of the most visited wilderness areas in the country despite being entirely roadless — entry requires a permit system managed by the Superior National Forest. In winter, Minnesota transforms into a snow-sports destination: ice fishing, cross-country skiing, dog sledding, and the celebrated Saint Paul Winter Carnival animate the frozen landscape. The state's food scene reflects a diverse immigrant heritage: Somali rice and sambusa on Minneapolis's East Lake Street, Hmong markets in Saint Paul's Frogtown, Scandinavian lefse and lutefisk in small-town delicatessens, and an exploding craft brewery scene statewide.
- Capital
- Saint Paul
- Largest city
- Minneapolis
- Population
- 5.7 million
- Languages
- English, Somali, Hmong, Spanish, Ojibwe
- Currency
- US Dollar
- Time zone
- Central Time (UTC-6 / UTC-5 DST)
Explore Minnesota by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Minnesota
The 8 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Walker Art Center
Mall of America
Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia)
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Minnesota Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Minnesota, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Minnesota
- Days 1-2Minnesota city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Minnesota
- Days 1-3Minnesota comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Minnesota, departure
Where to stay in Minnesota
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $70–$110/day
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range $150–$250/day
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury $350–$600+/day
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
The Hewing Hotel
Check rates on Booking.comLoews Minneapolis Hotel
Check rates on Booking.comHotel Ivy Minneapolis
Check rates on Booking.comThe Marquette Hotel
Check rates on Booking.comWhere to eat in Minnesota
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Travail Kitchen and Amusements
Hai Hai
Young Joni
Spoon and Stable
Martina
Burch Steak & Pizza Bar
Getting around Minnesota
Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is served by all major US carriers and multiple international routes. The METRO Blue Line light rail connects the airport to downtown Minneapolis ($2.50/ride). The METRO Green Line links downtown Minneapolis and downtown Saint Paul. Metro Transit buses and the Northstar commuter rail extend coverage across the metro area. Rental cars are essential for exploring Greater Minnesota.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $30–$70 | $90–$160 | $200–$400+ |
| Food (per day) | $20–$35 | $40–$65 | $90–$150 |
| Transportation | $10–$20 | $20–$40 | $40–$80 |
| Activities | $10–$20 | $20–$40 | $50–$100 |
| Daily total | $70–$110/day | $150–$250/day | $350–$600+/day |
Best time to visit Minnesota
June through September for outdoor activities and lake season; December through February for winter sports and the Saint Paul Winter Carnival
Minnesota's climate is continental with cold winters (average January lows of 4°F/-16°C in Minneapolis) and warm, humid summers (average July highs of 84°F/29°C). Spring arrives late — May is often still cold.
Essential travel tips
- A Discover Minnesota State Parks & Trails annual pass ($35) covers day-use fees at all 75 state parks
- Metro Transit day passes ($6) cover unlimited light rail and bus rides in the Twin Cities metro
- The Minneapolis Skyway connects 80 blocks of downtown Minneapolis — useful in winter
- BWCAW permits must be reserved in advance at recreation.gov; quota fills fast for summer weekends
- Lake cabin rentals on VRBO book months ahead for July and August weekends
Safety information
Download the Minnesota DNR app before wilderness trips for trail and permit information
Carry bear spray and a bear canister in the Boundary Waters and BWCAW
Water temperatures in Lake Superior remain cold (under 50°F/10°C) even in summer — limit swimming time
Dress in layers — Minnesota weather can change 30°F/17°C within hours
Keep valuables out of sight in rental cars in urban areas
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Minnesota?
The best time to visit Minnesota is June.
Do I need a visa to visit Minnesota?
Entry requirements follow United States federal rules. Citizens from Visa Waiver Program countries may enter visa-free for up to 90 days under ESTA. All others require a valid US visa. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Minnesota?
The currency in Minnesota is the US Dollar (USD). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Minnesota?
The main language(s) spoken in Minnesota: English, Somali, Hmong. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Minnesota?
The top attractions in Minnesota include Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Walker Art Center, Mall of America, Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, and Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia). Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.