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🌸 Spring in Minnesota: Things to Do After Winter Ends

  • Writer: Kari Lynn
    Kari Lynn
  • 8 hours ago
  • 3 min read

After months of snow, freezing temps, and bundling up just to step outside… spring in Minnesota feels extra special. 🌷


The days get longer, the sun finally starts to warm things up, and everything slowly comes back to life. It’s that time of year when patios reopen, trails thaw out, and weekend adventures start calling again.


If you’re ready to shake off winter, here are some of the best things to do in Minnesota in the spring.


☀️ Enjoy Patio Season (Finally!)

There’s nothing Minnesotans appreciate more than that first patio day.


Whether it’s brunch in the sunshine or dinner with a view, spring is the perfect time to get back outside.


Patio ideas to try:

  • Find a rooftop in Minneapolis or Saint Paul

  • Grab brunch and a mimosa with friends 🍾

  • Visit a brewery patio for a relaxed afternoon

  • Look for waterfront dining along the river


Pro tip: Even if it’s only 50–60 degrees…Minnesotans will still be out there.😄


Hewing Hotel
Hewing Hotel
Union Rooftop
Union Rooftop

🥾 Hit the Hiking Trails

As the snow melts, Minnesota’s trails start to open back up—and it’s one of the best ways to enjoy the season.


Must-visit spring hiking spots:

  • Minnehaha Falls – especially beautiful as the ice melts

  • Gooseberry Falls State Park – powerful waterfalls in the spring

  • Afton State Park – great for scenic hikes


Spring hikes can be a little muddy, so wear good shoes—but the fresh air and views are worth it.

Gooseberry Falls State Park 
Gooseberry Falls State Park 
Afton State Park
Afton State Park


🚗 Explore Charming Small Towns

Spring is the perfect time to take a day trip and explore some of Minnesota’s most charming small towns before the summer crowds arrive.



Favorite small towns to visit:

  • Stillwater – cute shops, river views, and great food

  • Red Wing – scenic bluffs and local charm

  • Duluth – Lake Superior views + endless outdoor spots


Spend the day walking downtown, grabbing coffee, and just enjoying a slower pace.

Duluth
Duluth
Stillwater
Stillwater

🌷 Visit Parks & See Spring Blooms

After a long winter, seeing flowers again just hits different! 🌸


Places to check out:

  • Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

  • Local city parks as trees and flowers start blooming

  • Neighborhood walking trails


It’s the perfect excuse to get outside and soak up the sunshine.

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum


🎉 Attend Spring Events & Festivals

Spring also means events start picking back up—and there’s always something happening.


Popular spring events:

  • Farmers markets reopening

  • Easter events and spring celebrations

  • Food truck festivals

  • Art fairs and local markets


Check local event calendars in Minneapolis and Saint Paul for what’s happening each weekend.


Events Happening:


Events Happening:



🐾 Get Outside With Your Pets

If you have dogs, spring is their time to shine too 🐶


  • Visit dog parks after a long winter indoors

  • Go for longer neighborhood walks

  • Find pet-friendly patios

  • Take a day trip adventure together


Bentley & Lewy love this time of year—finally back outside without freezing!


Duke’s on 7th (my boy Byron) they have a great patio and the food is amazing!
Duke’s on 7th (my boy Byron) they have a great patio and the food is amazing!

☕ Slow Down & Soak It In

Spring in Minnesota isn’t just about doing more—it’s about enjoying the little things again.


  • Morning coffee outside

  • Sunset walks

  • Opening windows for fresh air

  • That first warm breeze


After winter, even the simplest moments feel like a reset.



🌼 Final Thoughts

There’s something so refreshing about spring in Minnesota. It’s a season of new beginnings, getting back outside, and making the most of every sunny day.


Whether you’re exploring a small town, hiking to a waterfall, or just enjoying a patio lunch, there’s no better time to fall back in love with Minnesota.


📌 Save This for Later


Planning your spring adventures? Save this post so you have plenty of ideas ready when the warm weather hits!

 
 
 

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