🌸 Spring in Minnesota: Things to Do After Winter Ends

Kari Lynn
Mar 18
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.😄

🥾 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.

🚗 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.

🌷 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.

🎉 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:

https://www.minneapolis.org/calendar/

Events Happening:

https://www.visitsaintpaul.com/events-calendar/

🐾 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!

☕ 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.