Best Time to Visit Minneapolis for Weather, Prices, and Crowds

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The best time to visit Minneapolis depends on many factors, like your budget

Minneapolis is a city full of art, culture, and history. However, before planning what to see and do, you must choose the best time to visit Minneapolis for your needs. Elements to consider include what the weather will be like and how much it will cost to visit.

Summer (June to September) has the best weather. Temperatures are usually in the low 80s degrees Fahrenheit. Though rain is likely at least twice a week.

Be sure to look at the weather before you plan your trip, as that will likely be the biggest factor to affect your travels. Pack layers if it's going to be cold since you'll likely be walking around quite a bit.

Winter (December to January) is generally the cheapest time to visit. But Minnesota winters can be long and cold, so most tourists hold off on visiting until the weather is warmer. The smaller crowds at this time is what usually leads to lower prices.

However, no matter the weather, Minneapolis has plenty to offer visitors all year! Keep reading to figure out when you should plan your trip to the "Mini-Apple."

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Minneapolis Vacation Planning Questions

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Tips and questions to consider when planning a visit to Minneapolis
A path with trees on one side and a body of water with a bridge on the other
May to August sees the most tourists visiting Minneapolis

When is the best time to visit Minneapolis?

The best time to travel to Minneapolis is in the late spring (March to June) or early summer (June to August). April through August, in particular, have the best weather.

Temperatures during these months tend to range between 55 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. However, Minneapolis can get humid. Spring and summer usually have up to ten days of rain per month, and the daily humidity index is around 68%.

May to August is the city's busy tourist period. Lines for Minneapolis' most famous landmarks can get long because there are many out-of-towners in the city.

Spring and summer trips to the area can also be pricey. So, book your lodging and travel plans two or three months in advance to get the best price because last-minute deals are uncommon.

A snow-covered path on a bridge with an icy river underneath and buildings in front
Snowfall in Minnesota occurs primarily between December and February

What is the average snowfall in Minneapolis?

Minnesota is one of the snowiest states in the US. Some areas bordering Canada can get up to 72 inches of snow each winter (December to March).

Minneapolis is a bit further south, and snowplows are ready to clear the streets on short notice, but it can still get snowy. On average, 36 inches of snowfall occurs in the city every year.

Most of the snowfall occurs between December and February. However, temperatures can dip below freezing (32 degrees Fahrenheit) as early as November. It's also not uncommon for snow to continue into the first half of April.

Be sure to check the forecast before you travel during the colder months. Flurries likely won't affect your trip, but if blizzard conditions seem possible, you'll see alerts a few days in advance.

Stone stairs leading down with multi-colored trees surrounding them
Temperatures vary in Minneapolis from month to month and even from day to night

What is the average temperature in Minneapolis?

Temperatures in Minneapolis can vary wildly from month to month, and even daytime and nighttime averages can be quite different. The average high for the whole year is around 55 degrees Fahrenheit. On the other hand, the average nightly low hovers near 37 degrees Fahrenheit.

The coldest month of the year is January. The daily high is around 20 degrees Fahrenheit, and temperatures regularly drop to six degrees Fahrenheit at night.

July is the warmest month. The highs hover in the low 80s Fahrenheit, and the temperature only dips to about 64 degrees Fahrenheit at night.

In addition, Humidity can affect how warm or cold the temperature feels. The city's average 68% humidity index can feel one or two degrees warmer or colder, depending on the season.

A river next to an area of snow, bare winter trees, and a city skyline
January is the coldest month in Minneapolis and is subject to blizzards and storms

When is the coldest month in Minneapolis?

Minnesota's winters (December to March) are known for being cold, and winter in Minneapolis is no different. Snow can start to fall as early as November, and April flurries aren't uncommon.

The coldest month in Minneapolis is January. Days warmer than 22 degrees Fahrenheit are rare, and over 12 inches of snowfall is generally expected throughout the month.

Minneapolis is also prone to blizzards. Winter storms hit the area about twice a year, often during January. However, these storms usually come with a few days' notice, so you'll have time to change your travel plans if necessary.

Though there are snowplows to keep the streets clear and salted, make sure you have winter tires if you plan to drive around the city between November and April. These tires have a different tread, and they're a little softer to grip the road better.

The best time to visit Minneapolis for warm weather is in July
July is the warmest month in Minneapolis with temperatures hovering in the low 80s

When is the hottest month in Minneapolis?

July is the hottest month in Minneapolis on average. Temperatures hover from 80 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, and nightly temperatures are usually around 65 degrees Fahrenheit.

July's humidity index is typically around 65%. The humidity can make the weather feel a few degrees warmer.

However, summer (June to September) is a pretty rainy season in Minnesota. There are between seven and nine days of precipitation every month. While some rainy days are just showers, thunderstorms aren't uncommon.

The weather in Minneapolis starts to get noticeably warm around the end of May, when temperatures usually stay over 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The cold doesn't usually come back to the city until mid-September, when averages drop from 72 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit.

A river next to trees and city buildings under a blue sky with some cloud
There are affordable motels in and around downtown Minneapolis

What are the cheapest motels in Minneapolis?

Minneapolis is a relatively affordable city to visit. This affordability is mainly due to its location in the Midwest, which tends to be a moderately priced region. If you're a budget traveler, you have a few options for cheap motels in Minneapolis.

Those planning to fly in or out of the city can book a room at the Super 8 in the Bloomington area near the airport. The building is designed to block out airplane noise and offers services like a laundry room and conference spaces at a low cost. You could also stay at Motel 6 in the Roseville area, which has comfy rooms, free wifi, and an outdoor pool to enjoy in the summer.

If you want to look at all your options, the cheapest areas for motels are Cooper, Hale, and Waite Park. You can typically find deals on accommodations in these neighborhoods all year, and they're safe for people who are unfamiliar with the area.

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A large parking lot with silver buildings in the background
You can find many low-cost hotel options near the Mall of America in Minneapolis

What are the cheapest hotels in Minneapolis, MN?

Many of the best areas to stay in Minneapolis have hotels offering reasonable rates. Hotel Indigo is the ideal choice for those that are on a budget but want to stay downtown. Rooms are affordable, and the hotel offers amenities like free Wi-Fi, 24-hour customer service, and even pet-friendly rooms.

Another popular downtown option is the Holiday Inn Express. This hotel caters primarily to business travelers, so it tends to be budget-friendly to encourage those attending events and trade shows to stay there.

Additionally, if you want to be close to the Mall of America, you can find reasonably priced rooms at the JW Mariott Minneapolis Mall of America.

Weather, Prices, and Crowds in Minneapolis

Roads with vehicles on them leading to city buildings under a blue sky
Consider weather, prices, and crowds when planning a visit to Minneapolis

Minneapolis in January

On average, January is Minneapolis' coldest month. Temperatures tend to stay between six to 22 degrees Fahrenheit, with around 12 inches of snowfall.

Winter tires are required for your safety if you plan to drive in and around the city, although the roads are usually plowed and salted to keep ice from forming.

Crowd levels are low throughout the month. After New Year's Day, most tourists leave until the climate is warmer, so you shouldn't have any trouble getting last-minute reservations for events, restaurants, or hotels.

January's lack of crowds also leads to lower prices. Flight and accommodation options are discounted to entice travelers to come during this off-peak time. As a result, even spontaneous trips can be more affordable in January.

Minneapolis in February

February's weather is cold, but it might still be the best month to visit Minneapolis due to affordable prices and low crowds. Temperatures are usually around 26 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and nine degrees Fahrenheit at night.

Expect about eight inches of snowfall throughout the month as well. Freezing rain isn't unheard of either, with up to three days of rainfall on average.

Despite the cold weather, you'll likely find cheap flights to Minneapolis in February. This is because not many people come to the city in the winter (December to March), and the Minneapolis−Saint Paul International Airport isn't as big a hub as other midwestern options, so fewer travelers through the airport lead to lower flight prices.

Additionally, hotels are cheaper in February. Lower crowd levels mean there's less demand for rooms which, as with flights, usually drives down prices.

February is also the perfect time to plan a Valentine's getaway as you can find many romantic things to do in Minneapolis and luxury hotels can be booked for steeply discounted rates thanks to lower demand.

Minneapolis in March

Though March is on the cusp between winter (December to March) and spring (March to June), don't expect the climate to be warm. It snows throughout the month in Minneapolis, and temperatures over 42 degrees Fahrenheit are rare.

Crowd levels in March tend to be pretty low. Around halfway through the month, spring break season starts, which sees many students who attend university in the city leave for a few days.

Hotel and flight prices are usually pretty affordable in March. Costs will slowly climb near the month's end, but the lack of demand for booking options keeps them budget-friendly.

Make reservations at least a month in advance to avoid any price increases. You'll ensure more options are available if you avoid booking last minute.

Minneapolis in April

If you ask locals, April is the best month to visit Minneapolis. Compared to winter (December to March), which has temperatures regularly below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, April's climate feels nice and warm. Of course, with daily highs around 55 degrees Fahrenheit, you'll still want to dress warmly, but you won't have to worry about freezing.

The nicer weather makes walking tours around the city more pleasant. If you're at least 21, you can learn more about Minneapolis by going on a bar and pub history tour that allows you to learn about the city and visit top bars while enjoying the great weather.

You won't have to deal with too many crowds of tourists in April. Most people going on spring break trips tend to head to warmer climates.

While prices for hotels and flights will steadily rise throughout the month, you should still be able to book an affordable trip. That's especially true if you make your plans a month in advance.

Minneapolis in May

May is one of the best times to visit Minneapolis. The climate is mild, with temperatures usually around 68 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 49 degrees Fahrenheit at night. While it typically rains around twice a week, it's usually just rain showers that shouldn't affect your trip.

Crowd levels start to increase in May but not too noticeably. The city's universities end classes for the summer (June to September), so out-of-town students usually leave until the fall (September to December) term. This balances out fairly well with the increase of families and tourists that come to the area.

If you want to get away from busy areas when visiting in May, consider taking a Minneapolis self-guided tour. You'll be able to learn about the city's history while avoiding typically crowded areas.

You'll notice prices increase in May. As the school year ends, the demand for flights and hotel rooms starts to rise. If you want to book a budget-friendly trip, make your plans one-two months in advance.

Minneapolis in June

June has the best temperatures for a Minneapolis visit. It's the least-humid month, with a humidity index of around 60%, and the daily high is 77 degrees Fahrenheit on average.

You'll want to keep an eye on the forecast and possibly pack an umbrella since it can rain up to twice a week. Although most precipitation comes from scattered showers, thunderstorms are also possible.

June is one of the city's busy times for tourism. More families can travel since school isn't in session. Due to this, if you plan to visit any of the city's Minnesota landmarks, like the Mall of America, expect to encounter crowds and long lines.

If you like to travel on a budget, you'll want to book your June trip two months in advance. Then, you'll be more likely to find flight and hotel deals, and you'll have more options.

Minneapolis in July

Minneapolis is a popular summer (June to September) vacation spot for Minnesota residents. The city is bustling around Independence Day with fireworks and other events.

Summer in Minneapolis is also warm. July is the hottest month in the area. Temperatures are usually around 82 degrees Fahrenheit, though the 65% average humidity index can make it feel a few degrees warmer.

The increase in city-wide events and the nice weather bring day-trip and overnight visitors to the city. As a result, the demand for everything from event tickets to hotel rooms increases. As a result, you likely won't find any discounts or special offers. You'll also want to ensure you book early to ensure your preferred lodging or flight options don't sell out.

Minneapolis in August

August is one of the best times to plan a Minneapolis trip. With temperatures hovering around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, it's warm but usually not too hot. However, be prepared for showers or thunderstorms at least twice a week.

If the climate is a little too wet or hot for your liking, consider exploring the city in a unique way. The city has over nine miles of skyway, creating walkways between buildings above the ground. You can take a skyway tour to get out of the rain or heat or away from crowds.

August is a busy month in Minneapolis. Families often come to the city for one last trip before the school year starts. Students who attend the city's universities also begin moving back into their dorms and apartments.

You might want to have a flexible budget if you visit in August, especially if you book your trip at the last minute. Unfortunately, hotels and airlines don't tend to offer discounts this time of year.

Minneapolis in September

For many travelers, September is the best time to go to Minneapolis. The summer (June to September) temperatures cool off drastically throughout the month. The average high is around 72 degrees Fahrenheit which is comfortable for walking around the city.

Since September marks the beginning of the school year, many families avoid traveling. As a result, the city usually isn't very busy, and crowd levels are manageable. The one exception to that rule is Labor Day weekend which can bring more Minnesotans to the area.

After the month's first week, prices will slowly drop since hotels and airlines lower their rates to entice travelers. You're more likely to notice affordable prices if you book at least a month in advance.

Minneapolis in October

There are many reasons why October might be the ideal time to plan a trip to Minneapolis. Temperatures are mild. During the day, they hover around 58 degrees Fahrenheit and drop to about 40 degrees at night.

If you bring a jacket and comfortable shoes, you can walk around the city without getting too cold or hot. October's weather conditions also make it the perfect time to go on walking tours, like a guided Riverfront District tour. Even if it rains, you should still be able to explore.

You won't find many out-of-towners in Minneapolis in October. In fact, the number of people in the city might even decrease around Columbus Day when some university students return home for the long weekend.

Since there's less demand for rooms and flights, you're more likely to find deals and discounts. Of course, booking a month or two in advance is still recommended, but even spontaneous trips will be more affordable.

Minneapolis in November

November marks the start of Minneapolis' cold season. Average temperatures drop to 44 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 27 degrees at night. Though it doesn't typically snow much, flurries are likely, especially toward the end of the month.

The cold weather tends to keep tourists away. So while there might be a slight increase in visitors on Thanksgiving weekend, it's generally a quiet month. Lines are pretty short, and it's easy to get reservations for restaurants and activities.

Prices for hotels and flights also drop in November to entice people to travel. Thanksgiving can be hit or miss for bookings, though. So if you plan to travel around the holiday, make your reservations as soon as possible to ensure they don't sell out.

Minneapolis in December

If you're looking for a winter wonderland destination, visiting Minneapolis in December is a must! Throughout the month, you'll find holiday and winter-themed decorations, lights, and activities around the city to celebrate the Christmas season.

Temperatures in December are usually between 14 and 27 degrees Fahrenheit, and it snows at least two inches per week. December is the city's most humid month, with a humidity index over 75%. This is mainly due to the extra moisture the snow adds to the air.

Minneapolis is a big shopping destination for Minnesotans, so be prepared to see a lot of crowds at the Mall of America and in the downtown area leading up to Christmas. Weekends are particularly busy.

Keep in mind most of these crowds consist of day-trip travelers. Hotels likely won't be booked up, and you'll be able to find deals if you make reservations a month or two in advance. The same can be said about flights.

In Summary

Minneapolis is a city with a lot to offer. Its art and culture have even earned it the nicknames the "Mini-Apple" and the "New York City of the Midwest."

There are things to do and see every month of the year, but your preferences might affect when you should travel. People who prefer warm weather tend to opt for late spring (March to June) or summer (June to September).

On the other hand, people who like to travel on a budget should consider winter (December to March) when the cold weather tends to dissuade visitors. Not only will prices be lower, but you'll also have fewer crowds.

Hopefully, this list has helped you narrow down when you should book your ideal Minneapolis trip. Of course, the next step is to plan it!

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Written by Gabrielle T

ggtraveler1213 FORMER WRITER Gabrielle loves all things travel and culture. She is originally from the USA, but she has lived in Italy for over a decade. She's always ready to pack her bags, grab her passport, and head out on an adventure!

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