Minneapolis weather by month
Average daily high and low, total rainfall and days with at least 2.5 mm of rain.
| Month | High / low | Rain | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | -4°C / -12°C | 19 mm · 3 days | Cold |
| February | -3°C / -12°C | 26 mm · 3 days | Cold |
| March | 6°C / -4°C | 44 mm · 5 days | Cold |
| April | 13°C / 2°C | 87 mm · 8 days | Fair |
| May | 21°C / 10°C | 105 mm · 7 days | Great |
| June | 27°C / 15°C | 116 mm · 8 days | Great |
| July | 29°C / 18°C | 96 mm · 6 days | Fair |
| August | 27°C / 17°C | 126 mm · 7 days | Fair |
| September | 23°C / 13°C | 72 mm · 6 days | Great |
| October | 14°C / 5°C | 69 mm · 6 days | Fair |
| November | 6°C / -2°C | 34 mm · 4 days | Cold |
| December | -2°C / -9°C | 42 mm · 4 days | Cold |
Minneapolis by season
Spring
A season of thaw and revival, with temperatures rising from chilly to mild. The ice melts on the lakes, trees begin to bud, and the city shakes off winter with outdoor events.
- + Fewer tourists
- + Lower hotel rates
- + Beautiful blooming trees and flowers, especially around Lake Harriet
- − Unpredictable weather (can still snow in April)
- − 'Minnesota Mud' season on trails
Summer
Warm, sunny, and vibrant, with long days perfect for lake activities, festivals, and patio dining. This is when Minneapolis truly comes alive outdoors.
- + Ideal weather for lakes and biking (avg 28°C/82°F)
- + Packed festival calendar (Aquatennial, Pride, music festivals)
- + All parks, trails, and outdoor attractions are fully operational
- − Peak tourist season with highest prices
- − Can be humid with occasional thunderstorms
Autumn
Crisp air and spectacular fall foliage, particularly around the Chain of Lakes and along the Mississippi. A favorite season for locals who enjoy outdoor activities without summer's heat.
- + Stunning fall colors throughout September and October
- + Pleasant, cool temperatures perfect for hiking
- + Cultural season kicks off with theater and gallery openings
- − Weather becomes increasingly unpredictable
- − Days get noticeably shorter
Winter
A true winter wonderland with consistent snow cover, frozen lakes, and temperatures often below freezing. The city embraces the cold with cozy activities and winter sports.
- + Magical snowy landscapes and holiday lights
- + Great for winter sports: cross-country skiing, ice skating
- + Lowest hotel rates and fewest crowds
- − Can be bitterly cold (avg -8°C/18°F, but can drop much lower)
- − Limited daylight hours
Minneapolis month by month
Minneapolis in January
ColdIn January, Minneapolis averages highs of -4°C and lows of -12°C, with about 3 rainy days and 19 mm of rain. It is cold, so pack warm layers.
Minneapolis in February
ColdIn February, Minneapolis averages highs of -3°C and lows of -12°C, with about 3 rainy days and 26 mm of rain. It is cold, so pack warm layers.
Minneapolis in March
ColdIn March, Minneapolis averages highs of 6°C and lows of -4°C, with about 5 rainy days and 44 mm of rain. It is cold, so pack warm layers.
Minneapolis in April
FairIn April, Minneapolis averages highs of 13°C and lows of 2°C, with about 8 rainy days and 87 mm of rain. Expect mixed weather, with comfortable spells.
Minneapolis in May
GreatIn May, Minneapolis averages highs of 21°C and lows of 10°C, with about 7 rainy days and 105 mm of rain. It is one of the most comfortable months for sightseeing.
Minneapolis in June
GreatIn June, Minneapolis averages highs of 27°C and lows of 15°C, with about 8 rainy days and 116 mm of rain. It is one of the most comfortable months for sightseeing.
Minneapolis in July
FairIn July, Minneapolis averages highs of 29°C and lows of 18°C, with about 6 rainy days and 96 mm of rain. Expect mixed weather, with comfortable spells.
Minneapolis in August
FairIn August, Minneapolis averages highs of 27°C and lows of 17°C, with about 7 rainy days and 126 mm of rain. Expect mixed weather, with comfortable spells.
Minneapolis in September
GreatIn September, Minneapolis averages highs of 23°C and lows of 13°C, with about 6 rainy days and 72 mm of rain. It is one of the most comfortable months for sightseeing.
Minneapolis in October
FairIn October, Minneapolis averages highs of 14°C and lows of 5°C, with about 6 rainy days and 69 mm of rain. Expect mixed weather, with comfortable spells.
Minneapolis in November
ColdIn November, Minneapolis averages highs of 6°C and lows of -2°C, with about 4 rainy days and 34 mm of rain. It is cold, so pack warm layers.
Minneapolis in December
ColdIn December, Minneapolis averages highs of -2°C and lows of -9°C, with about 4 rainy days and 42 mm of rain. It is cold, so pack warm layers.
Plan your Minneapolis trip
Best time to visit Minneapolis: FAQ
What is the best month to visit Minneapolis?+
May is the most comfortable month on average, with highs of 21°C. June and September are close behind.
What is the rainiest month in Minneapolis?+
August is the wettest month, with about 126 mm of rain.
How hot does Minneapolis get?+
July is the warmest month, with average highs of 29°C and lows of 18°C. The coldest nights come in January, averaging -12°C.
Averages for 2006–2025 from the LOWER ST ANTHONY FALLS weather station (1 km from the centre), NOAA Global Historical Climatology Network. Verdicts rate sightseeing comfort from daytime highs and rainy days.