Things to Do in Minnesota in April: Events, Weather & What to Expect if You’re Visting

If you’ve lived in Minnesota long enough, you know one thing for sure—April keeps you on your toes. One day it feels like spring has finally arrived… and the next, you’re scraping frost off your windshield again.

But don’t let the unpredictable weather fool you—April is actually one of the best times to explore Minnesota. As the snow melts and longer days return, the state starts coming back to life with events, outdoor adventures, and those first glimpses of spring.

Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Minnesota in April 👇

🌦️ What Is the Weather Like in Minnesota in April?

April is a true transition month in Minnesota.

• Average highs: 50–60°F

• Average lows: 30–40°F

• Mix of sun, rain… and yes, sometimes snow ❄️

Temperatures steadily warm throughout the month, with highs climbing from around 50°F early April to the low 60s by the end.

You can expect:

• Rain showers (April showers are real here)

• Occasional late snowfalls (totally normal!)

• Windy days

• Mud season (hello, messy trails 😅)

👉 Pro tip: Dress in layers. You’ll likely experience multiple seasons in one day.

🌸 What to Expect in April

April in Minnesota is all about that in-between season:

• Snow is melting, but not always gone

• Lakes begin to thaw

• Parks and trails reopen

• Patios start slowly coming back ☀️

It’s also less crowded than summer, making it a great time to explore without the crowds.

Events & Festivals in April

Here are some fun events happening across Minnesota in April:

🌷 Spring Festivals & Local Events

• Art in Bloom (Minneapolis)

  A beautiful spring event featuring floral displays inspired by artwork.

https://new.artsmia.org/

• Earth Day Festival (Statewide)

  Celebrations, markets, and eco-friendly events around April 22.

https://www.familyfuntwincities.com/twin-cities-earth-day-family-events/

• Local Easter events & egg hunts throughout small towns. (perfect for family content!)

🚶‍♀️ Best Things to Do in Minnesota in April

1. Explore State Parks (Before the Summer Crowds)

April is a great time to visit parks like:

• Itasca State Park

• Gooseberry Falls State Park

Waterfalls are especially powerful this time of year thanks to snowmelt.

2. Visit a Small Town

This is the perfect time to lean into your Midwest Adventures content .

Great April towns to explore:

• Stillwater

• Red Wing

• Lanesboro

Think: cute shops, coffee spots, and fewer crowds than peak season.

3. Enjoy the First Patio Days ☀️

As temps warm up, restaurants start opening patios again—especially in:

• Minneapolis

• St. Paul

📸 Minnesota Monthly @ Eat Street Crossings in Minneapolis

It might not be hot, but Minnesotans will absolutely be outside the second it hits 55°F 😄

4. Go Hiking (But Expect Mud!)

Spring hiking is beautiful—but messy.

Top spots:

• Jay Cooke State Park

• Afton State Park

👉 Wear waterproof boots—you’ll thank yourself later.

5. Take a Scenic Drive 🚗

April is underrated for road trips.

Try:

• Great River Road (along the Mississippi)

• North Shore drive toward Duluth

6. Visit Indoor Attractions (Backup Plan!)

Because… weather!

• Mall of America

• Museums + breweries

• Coffee shops

🌼 Is April a Good Time to Visit Minnesota?

Yes—if you know what to expect.

Pros:

✔ Fewer crowds

✔ Cheaper travel

✔ Unique “in-between season” content

✔ Waterfalls + nature waking up

Cons:

✖ Unpredictable weather

✖ Muddy trails

✖ Not quite full spring yet

🧳 What to Pack for Minnesota in April

• Light jacket + heavier coat

• Waterproof shoes/boots

• Layers (always!)

• Sunglasses (it gets bright with snow melt)

• Umbrella or rain jacket

✨ Final Thoughts

April in Minnesota might be unpredictable, but that’s part of its charm. It’s the start of longer days, fresh air, and that feeling that winter is finally on its way out.

If you’re willing to embrace a little bit of everything—sun, rain, maybe even snow—you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy it.