Minnesota offers a ton of outdoor activities every season, and the Bloomington area is no exception. Whether you enjoy snowy winter days or the beautiful colors of fall, you will always be able to find fun and exciting outdoor activities.
Winter (December – March)
Cross Country Skiing
If you’re in Bloomington and looking to enjoy the chilly Minnesota air, there are some breathtaking sights and fun winter activities to enjoy. Take a trip to the Hyland Hills Ski Area for downhill skiing and snowboarding. You can also visit Hyland Lake Park Reserve, where you can go ice fishing, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and sledding!
Looking for a more local adventure? Check out one of the many parks throughout Bloomington for ice skating and hockey: popular spots include Running Park, Sunrise Park, Brookside Park, and more Bloomington parks. At these parks you can make snow angels and snowmen and have as many snowball fights as your heart desires. There are also great sledding and snow tubing hills near Bloomington that are a short drive away!
Spring (April – May) and Fall (September – November)
Fall biking
During spring and fall in Minnesota you can embrace both light jacket weather and warm, sunny days. These seasons are perfect for outdoor adventures that aren’t too hot nor too cold. Take in the blooming flowers or the colorful fall leaves at the Normandale Japanese Garden, a peaceful and underrated spot perfect for light walks, photo shoots, or just reading a book at one of the tables outside Normandale Community College. Bring your bike and ride through the Minnesota River Bottoms, where you’ll experience scenic wildlife and natural trails. You can also explore the Three Rivers Park District, which features 8.6 miles of paved bike trails and connections to many metro bike paths for a smooth and enjoyable ride. Whether you want more of an adventurous trail like Minnesota River Bottoms or a metro planned bike trail like Three Rivers Park District, biking during these seasons will never disappoint!
Summer (June – August)
Bush Lake Beach
Summer in Bloomington means hot and humid days, perfect for water-filled fun! Cool off at the Bloomington Family Aquatic Center, which features big water slides, a lap pool, a diving board, and concessions – great fun for family, friend groups, or simply for a nice day by the pool. Check out the Cedar Crest Splash Pad, just a short drive or walk away, which includes a playground surrounded by beautiful trees. If you’re looking for a beach day, head to Bush Lake on the west side of Bloomington. It’s the perfect beachy spot for tanning, swimming, picnicking, or boating, with many amenities to enjoy without having to be by the ocean!
And summer fun isn’t limited to swimming; take a vibrant walk in the sunshine at Nine Mile Creek, where you can enjoy running water and scenic photo opportunities and be surrounded by what feels like endless trees. At the Old Cedar Bridge, you can stroll along the river, have a picnic, or take a bike ride. Lastly, emerge yourself in the wetlands and woodlands at the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, the home of species like wild turkeys, river otters, and white-tailed deer.
