Pack for Minnesota’s Four Seasons

Mall of America is always a comfortable temperature of around 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius) year-round, but Bloomington experiences all four seasons and everything from snow and ice to warm humidity. Packing for Minnesota can be easy with a simple checklist that fits the many Minnesota seasonal activities.

Spring

image of Normandale Japanese Garden

Normandale Japanese Garden

We’re starting strong with the trickiest season, as the weather tends to alternate between chilly and warm. Be sure to pack long pants, a few sweaters, and long-sleeved shirts, but include a couple of airy t-shirts for the warmer sunny days in spring! If you’re coming in the early spring be sure to have a light jacket. Spring is a beautiful season to come visit as you can explore the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Lyndale Rose Garden, Como Zoo’s Flower Show and enjoy the art along the Bloomington South Loop public art tour.

Summer

image of bush lake

Bush Lake

Minnesota gets quite hot in the summer so make sure you pull out those tank tops, shorts, t-shirts, and flip flops – and don’t forget your sunscreen! If you plan to enjoy the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge or Hyland Lake Park Reserve, bring out the bug spray as pesky bugs love to come out of hiding in the warm weather. Also pack a light sweater, as the temperature drops at night. During the summer, you can enjoy the many summer festivals, swim in the beautiful lakes, dance at music events, and of course visit the Minnesota State Fair.

Fall

image of Old Cedar Avenue Bridge

Cedar Avenue Bridge

There is no better time to stop and take in nature’s beauty than fall in Bloomington, when green leaves turn yellow, orange, and red! Be sure to pack a light jacket and sweatshirts so you can layer if needed; overall, long-sleeved shirts and pants are common attire during the fall. Make sure to bring good walking/biking shoes, because if you love to get outdoors during the fall Minnesota is the place to be! With corn mazes, pumpkin patches, apple orchards, and expansive biking trails you will fall in love with this season all over again.

Winter

image of hyland hills ski area

Hyland Hills Ski Area

If you plan to venture out during winter, you are in for some fun! Be sure to pack long socks, hats, gloves, and long shirts for layering with comfy insulated coats, and bring out your most waterproof shoes for the snowy parking lots and walkways. If you plan to make snow angels, have fun snowball fights, or enjoy the amazing Hyland Hills Ski Area, pack those snow pants and boots! Winter is dazzling in Minnesota, with the many holiday lights shows, winter carnivals, ice skating, unique outdoor experiences and sipping hot chocolate.

No matter the season you are enjoying Minnesota, there is something fun to adventure without stressing about what to wear or bring! Every season is full of exciting events and activities you don’t want to miss.