Outside of the Midwest, Minnesota is best known for the frosty temperatures and snowy landscapes of its signature season. But this chilly reputation helps keep the state’s best-kept secret under wraps: spring in the Land of 10,000 lakes. With the arrival of the first 60-degree day each year, the state comes alive with renewed energy. Suddenly, patios are overflowing, lakes are buzzing and spirits are high. Here are 8 quintessential ways to capitalize on the arrival of spring weather and enjoy the best that Minnesota has to offer this season.
Photography provided by Explore Minnesota
Take in a Movie at a Drive-In Theater
A time-honored tradition, drive-in movie theaters are alive and well in the North Star State. And what better way to get outdoors to embrace spring weather than spending time with friends and family to enjoy the nostalgia of watching a movie under the stars? It’s the perfect little slice of old-school Americana to cap off a beautiful night. From Sky-Vu Drive-In in Northwest Minnesota down to Verne Drive-In Theater in Luverne, there are five classic theaters across the state still delivering the quintessential blast-from-the-past experience.
Hit the Lakes for Fishing Opener
With 10,000 lakes and some of the best freshwater fishing in the country, it’s safe to say that Minnesota’s angling culture is one of a kind. And for serious or even halfway-serious anglers, fishing opener is a sacred holiday. It’s been celebrated across the state annually since 1948, when the first Governor’s Fishing Opener was conducted at Wahkon on Mille Lacs. Every May, nearly half a million Minnesotans take to the lakes, rivers and streams, starting each season with fresh hopes of landing a story-worthy catch. Get your fishing gear ready for this year’s opener and partake in the beloved pastime, starting May 10.
Photography provided by Explore Minnesota
Enjoy a Hike
Minnesota’s natural landscape has a lot to offer outdoor enthusiasts. With ecosystems ranging from prairieland to woodlands, hiking is not only abundant — it’s some of the most varied in the Upper Midwest. Whether you want to trek through the driftless hills, wander across open prairies or hike the Sawtooth Mountains along Lake Superior, Minnesota has an abundance of trails fit for every skill level. If you’re in the metro area and don’t want to travel too far, Theodore Wirth Park touts the best trail system in the Twin Cities. For a more intensive excursion, the iconic Grand Portage National Trail offers a nice challenge in a historically significant setting.
Photography provided by Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
Visit the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
With its beautiful gardens, award-winning tree collections and natural areas, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is a go-to destination for connecting with nature. While open year-round, the Arboretum really shines in the spring with excellent programming featuring everything from private garden tours to vibrant art exhibits to dynamic May Markets. Plus, you can enjoy miles of trails, paved paths, the casual cafe, outdoor terrace and Gift and Garden Store if a spontaneous visit is more up your alley. With new garden highlights added weekly, there’s always something new and fresh to check out.
Photography provided by St. Paul Saints Baseball Club
Catch a St. Paul Saints Game
The St. Paul Saints, Minnesota’s minor league baseball team, have been providing outdoor entertainment since 1993. And there’s a reason the team’s slogan is, “Fun is Good.” The club prioritizes the fan experience — and it’s evident as soon as you arrive. From affordable tickets to tasty eats and endless in-game antics, the Lowertown St. Paul hot spot provides a more intimate atmosphere than major league stadiums. With green spaces for lounging and great views from just about every seat, there’s no excuse not to get out and enjoy America’s favorite pastime.
Get Out on the Water
Fishing isn’t the only way to enjoy the lakes this season. The Minneapolis Chain of Lakes has plenty to offer in the way of water sports. At Wheel Fun Rentals, you can rent everything from paddle boards and kayaks to canoes and pedal boats right on the shores of Bde Maka Ska. Or, on hot days, opt to rent one of the mountain or cruiser bikes and head over to Cedar Lake to enjoy East Beach, a favorite swimming spot for many. For a more leisurely lake excursion, head to Lake Minnetonka’s Bay to Bay Boat Club and secure a pontoon for an afternoon of casual cruising with friends or family.
Photography provided by Jax Cafe
Embrace Patio Season
As days start getting longer and temperatures rise, furniture starts to appear outside restaurants across the state, which can only mean one thing: Patio season has arrived. There’s no better way to dine than outside in the fresh air and sunshine with good company. Explore iconic outdoor hot spots in the metro like W.A. Frost and Company’s historic oasis in St. Paul or Jax Cafe’s idyllic Northeast Minneapolis courtyard, which touts its own babbling brook. For something off the beaten path, Fisherman’s Daughter in Grand Marais offers a New England–inspired experience or Four Daughters Vineyard in Spring Valley is a perfect destination for an elegant afternoon.
Photography provided by Explore Minnesota
Chase Waterfalls
Powered by the fast-flowing waters of rapid snow melt, Minnesota’s waterfalls come alive in the spring. And if you haven’t already, these majestic natural landmarks are truly a must-see. One favorite destination near Lake Superior, Gooseberry Falls State Park, features a series of three vast and impressive waterfalls. In southern Minnesota, take a unique underground trek to Niagara Cave and take in a stunning 60-foot waterfall amongst stalactites and stalagmites. Or head over to Minnehaha Park to explore the Twin Cities most popular waterfall.
