The best time to visit Minneapolis, MN, is in the summer, between June and August. The weather in Minnesota’s biggest city is spectacular during the summer months, with temperatures ranging from the 70s°F to the 90s°F (20s°C to 30s°C). It’s the perfect time to bask in the sunshine and enjoy the outdoors.
Minneapolis truly comes alive in the summer, with loads of outdoor events and festivals that will make you want to get out and explore. It’s an excellent time for enjoying the city’s beautiful lakes, parks, and gardens. Even though summer is the peak season for tourists, the city has an electric vibe that’s well worth putting up with the crowds for.
Fall brings beautiful foliage to Minneapolis as the leaves change colors and temperatures begin to cool, but it’s a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or visiting apple orchards. September and October are delightful and less crowded.
Minneapolis winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. If you enjoy winter sports like skiing, ice skating, or ice fishing, this is an excellent time to visit, but be prepared for potentially icy conditions.
The city begins to awaken from its frosty winter from March through May, and you can witness cherry blossoms and tulips bloom in parks and gardens. However, spring can be unpredictable, with some days still experiencing winter-like weather.
Still not sure when to visit the City of Lakes? Check out this complete Minneapolis weather guide by season & month to get the lowdown on all the highs and lows!
Got more travel plans on the horizon? Check out our other weather & when to go guides and our United States Travel Guide for more tips & recommendations on when to visit, where to go & what to do on your vacation!
Weather in Minneapolis, MN
By season
Spring
Spring in Minneapolis can be a real mixed bag of weather. You’ll see everything from sunny mornings to rainy afternoons. Still, you’ll get to experience Minneapolis as it wakes up from its winter hibernation, with parks and outdoor spaces coming alive with blooming flowers and fresh greenery.
Temperatures gradually climb as the spring season progresses, but it’s a little unpredictable. In March, you might still catch a bit of winter’s chill, with average highs in the 40s°F (5°C to 10°C). By May, things are heating up, and you can expect highs in the pleasant 60s°F to 70s°F (15°C to 25°C).
Spring sees occasional showers and sometimes even thunderstorms, but you’ll still have plenty of dry days to enjoy the fresh spring air. Just remember to take an umbrella or raincoat when you head out.
Minneapolis starts buzzing with events after a long winter slumber. Eagerly anticipated happenings include the Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival and the May Day Parade and Festival.
Spring in Minneapolis isn’t as busy as the summer months, but you’ll still see a fair share of visitors. It’s a lovely time to explore the city without the crowds and snag some sweet deals on accommodation.
Summer
Sunshine, good vibes, and a whole lot of fun; summer in Minneapolis is where it’s at! The sun is out, the skies are clear, and you can say goodbye to those chilly temps. Minneapolis summers are all about warm days and cool evenings. Average highs in June hover around the 80s°F (26°C to 3°C), and by July and August, it’s common to see the mercury climb into the 90s°F (32°C).
Rainfall during summer is moderate, with occasional thunderstorms to keep things interesting. But these storms are usually short-lived, and you’ll still have plenty of sunny days to explore Minneapolis’s top tourist attractions.
Minneapolis is jam-packed with incredible events in summer. From the Twin Cities Jazz Festival in Downtown Saint Paul in June to the iconic Aquatennial in Downtown Minneapolis in late July, the Twin Cities know how to rock it in the summer.
Summer is a busy time in Minneapolis-Saint Paul. With the gorgeous weather and all the exciting events happening, people from near and far flock to the city, so book flights and hotels early!
Fall
Fall in Minneapolis is as crisp as freshly fallen leaves, with pumpkin spice in the air and cozy vibes all around.
The autumn weather is a mix of cool and mild temperatures. As September rolls in, you’ll start to feel a pleasant chill in the air, especially in the evenings, with temps ranging from the 60s°F to 70s°F (15°C to 25°C), while October sees temperatures dropping to the 50s°F and 60s°F (10°C to 20°C). By November, it’s sweater weather with highs in the 40s°F (5°C to 10°C). It’s the perfect time to snuggle up and enjoy the cozy autumn vibes.
Fall in Minneapolis also brings along some rain with occasional showers and drizzles. So, grab your raincoat and embrace the rare rainfall as you soak in the beauty of the changing foliage. There are also plenty of events and festivals, from the Minnesota Renaissance Festival in September and October to the Art Attack in November.
This season is a relatively calm time for tourism compared to summer. While there may still be some visitors enjoying the city, it’s not as crowded as during the peak summer season.
Winter
Winter in the Twin Cities can be pretty frosty, with chilly temperatures and snowy landscapes. Temperatures drop to around the 20s°F to 30s°F (-5°C to -1°C) in December and January, and it can even dip below zero at times.
Snow is a big part of the winter experience in Minneapolis. You’ll see the city covered in a blanket of white, and it’s truly picturesque. Snowfall can vary, but you can expect a fair amount of it during the winter months.
Despite the chilly weather, you can dive into the holiday cheer with festivals like the Holidazzle Village from late November to December and the Great Northern Festival in January.
Winter in Minneapolis-Saint Paul is a bit quieter compared to other seasons. While you may still encounter some visitors, it can be a great time to enjoy indoor attractions like Minneapolis’s museums and cozy cafés without the crowds.
By month
January
Winter takes center stage in January, and the city embraces the chill. It’s a time to cozy up and experience the unique charm of the city in a whole new light. It’s winter wonderland time; temperatures can drop to bone-chilling levels from the teens to the low 20s°F (-7°C to -5°C), and lows can plunge well below zero.
January is generally a quieter time for tourists in Minneapolis, and it’s ideal for experiencing the city at your own pace and soaking up the wintry charm.
Key events in January
- The Great Northern Festival
- Saint Paul Winter Carnival
February
Winter is still going strong, but hints of spring start peeking through in February. Minneapolis is still in the icy grip of winter, but warmer days are expected. Temperatures continue to stay cold, with average highs in the 20s°F to low 30s°F (-4°C to -1°C). Lows can dip below zero, so you’ll want to keep those warm layers handy.
February is generally a quieter time compared to the peak summer season. You’ll have more space to enjoy the city’s attractions, indulge in delicious cuisine, and immerse yourself in the local culture without feeling overwhelmed by crowds.
Key events in February
- City of Lakes Loppet
- Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival
March
March sees winter slowly loosen its grip, and hints of spring start to blossom. Winter is still lingering, but signs of spring begin to appear. Temperatures start to climb, with average highs ranging from the 30s°F to 40s°F (1°C to 7°C). However, don’t let that fool you, as chilly days and frosty nights can still occur.
The month of March marks the beginning of spring break for many students, so families and college-goers might be taking advantage of the break to visit the city. While it might increase tourist activity slightly, it’s still not as busy as the summer months and the perfect month to explore popular attractions in Saint Paul and Minneapolis.
Key events in March:
- Minneapolis St. Patrick’s Day Parade
April
Spring starts to bloom, and the city comes alive with color in April. The chill of winter gives way to milder temperatures, with highs ranging from 50s°F to 60s°F (10°C to 15°C).
It’s an ideal time to explore the city’s beautiful parks and trails. From the scenic landscapes of Minnehaha Park to the urban oasis of Lake Calhoun, you can soak up the fresh air, take leisurely walks, and enjoy the blossoming flora around you.
April is not as busy as the peak summer months, but you may still encounter visitors enjoying the pleasant weather. It’s a popular time for families and individuals to explore the city, especially during spring break. While there may be a moderate influx of tourists, it’s ideal to enjoy Minneapolis without the crowds that summer brings.
Key events in April
- Minneapolis-St. Paul International Film Festival
- Minneapolis Art-A-Whirl
May
Spring is in full bloom in May, and the city buzzes with energy and excitement. May in Minneapolis brings pleasant temperatures and a breath of fresh air. Average highs range from the 60s°F to 70s°F (15°C to 25°C), making it a perfect time to ditch those heavy coats and get outdoors.
May is a wonderful time to explore the city’s parks, gardens, and lakes. The nearby Chain of Lakes, including Lake Calhoun and Lake Harriet, are among the most popular Minneapolis day trips, offering picturesque settings for walking, biking, or simply lounging by the water.
The pleasant weather and exciting events during May attract visitors, so be prepared for more tourists, especially during weekends and popular festivals.
Key events in May
- Minneapolis Farmers Market
- Northern Spark Festival
June
Summer officially kicks off in June, and the city comes alive! Expect warm days, abundant sunshine, and a vibrant atmosphere. As the city embraces the warmth of summer and days are bright and sunny, June is the perfect month to explore Minneapolis and Saint Paul!
Average temperatures range from the 70s°F to 80s°F (20°C to 30°C), ideal for outdoor activities and soaking up the sun. Daylight hours peak at almost 15 hours of light per day, providing ample time to enjoy all the city offers.
June is a busy time in Minneapolis. The pleasant weather, an abundance of events, and summer break for students attract visitors to the city. Be prepared for crowds exploring the city’s major attractions, dining at popular restaurants, and enjoying outdoor activities.
Key events in June
- Stone Arch Bridge Festival
- The Twin Cities Jazz Festival
- Edina Art Fair
July
Summer is in full swing in Minneapolis during July, and the city is buzzing with energy! It’s also hot, with temperatures ranging from the 80s°F to low 90s°F (27°C to 33°C), so you’ll want to slap on some sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay hydrated to beat the heat!
July is one of the busiest months in Minneapolis, and you can expect crowds of tourists to enjoy the city. Be prepared for more crowds and consider booking tickets or making reservations in advance for popular events and restaurants. You’ll also want to book rooms at the most popular Minneapolis hotels well ahead.
Key events in July
- Aquatennial
- Minnehaha Falls Art Fair
- LynLake Street Art Series
- Art on the Edge Festival
- Loring Park Art Festival
August
August in Minneapolis is the peak of summer, and it’s time to enjoy the sunshine and soak up the heat! Bask in beautiful hot days with highs from the 80s°F to low 90s°F (27°C to 33°C) and embrace the summer vibes with plenty of events, festivals, and outdoor activities to enjoy.
The peak of summer, pleasant weather, and fantastic events make August a busy time in Minneapolis. Like July, expect larger crowds and book your tickets and reservations in advance for popular events and restaurants.
Key events in August
- Minnesota Fringe Festival
- Downtown Minneapolis Street Art Festival
- Minnesota State Fair
- Uptown Art Fair
- Powderhorn Art Fair
September
Summer begins to wane in September, transitioning into fall, bringing cooler temperatures and gloriously colorful foliage. The summer heat begins to fade with highs ranging from the 60s°F to 70s°F (15°C to 25°C), making it an excellent time to enjoy outdoor activities. You’ll want a light jacket or sweater handy for the cooler evenings.
September is generally a less busy time compared to the peak summer months. With school back in session and the transition into fall, there tends to be a lull in tourist activity. However, popular events and festivals may still attract visitors, so checking event schedules and making any necessary reservations in advance is always a good idea.
Key events in September
- Jackalope Art Fair
- LoLa Art Crawl
- Minnesota Renaissance Festival
October
Fall is in full swing in October, bringing crisp air, vibrant foliage, and cozy vibes. October in Minneapolis showcases the beauty of fall; as temperatures cool down, you’ll feel a refreshing crispness in the air. Average highs range from the 50s°F to 60s°F (10°C to 15°C), making it the perfect time to break out those sweaters and scarves.
The vibrant fall foliage, Halloween festivities, and charming autumn atmosphere attract visitors seeking a seasonal getaway, so October tends to be a moderately busy time in Minneapolis.
Popular events and attractions may see increased foot traffic, so it’s always a good idea to plan, especially for haunted attractions and fall-themed events.
Key events in October
- Sever’s Fall Festival
- Twin Cities Horror Festival
November
In November in Minneapolis, fall moves into winter, bringing cooler temperatures and the possibility of snow. Temperatures continue to drop, and you’ll feel a distinct chill in the air with average highs ranging from the 40s°F to 50s°F (4°C to 10°C). It’s time to have a warm jacket handy, as the evenings can get quite chilly.
With the change into colder weather and the focus shifting to holiday preparations, tourist activity tends to lull. In November, you should find more elbow room and be able to score deals on hotels and activities.
Key events in November
- Holidazzle
- American Craft Council Show
December
December is the month of winter wonderland and festive cheer in Minneapolis. Get ready for chilly temperatures, sparkling lights, and a joyful atmosphere.
Temperatures drop during December, and you’ll experience a lovely wintry chill in the air. Average highs range from the 20s°F to 30s°F (-7°C to -1°C degrees Celsius), so it’s time to bundle up in your coziest winter gear.
December is a moderately busy time in Minneapolis as the city comes alive with holiday decorations, and the festive events attract visitors. Whether strolling through twinkling lights or delighting in the wintery beauty, December in Minneapolis promises a joyous and enchanting experience!
Key events in December
- Holidazzle
- WinterSkate at Loring Park
- European Christmas Market
