Winter is the coldest, longest season if you live in Minnesota. The snow is pretty to look at and it can be a blast to play in but, by the time winter is over, the warmer weather is much appreciated. If you plan on traveling to Minnesota, unless you have never experienced the snowy coldness, plan your trip for a different season.
One reason that winter is one of my least favorite seasons is because it seems to last most of the year. They (jokingly) say that there are three seasons in Minnesota: Winter is Coming, Winter, and Road Construction. It is not a joke, though. It starts to get cold in the fall, and it usually snows a couple of times in October and November. Then it gets really cold and snowy. The snow lasts into the spring and, by the time it’s gone, summer is almost here and the road construction has already begun. Road construction lasts into the fall, and then the cycle starts all over again.
Also, if you still plan on traveling to Minnesota in the winter, be aware of all the packing you will need to do ahead of time. You will need to be sure to pack: a warm winter jacket, gloves, a scarf…and if you are driving, make sure there is a warm pair of boots in the vehicle. Other items to keep in the car: a blanket, an emergency stash of food, a flashlight, and some booster cables. Always make sure you have at least half a tank of gas to help prevent it from freezing and, on the really cold days, go out about 20-30 minutes in the morning before you have to leave to start it up.
Are you still convinced that traveling to Minnesota in the winter is a good idea? All right, there are some benefits to the snowy weather. There are fun indoor and outdoor activities that you might not be able to do in warmer climates. Snowmobiling is one fun thing about winter. You can go out and ride all day, then come home to a cup of hot chocolate. If it is your first time seeing snow, don’t sit inside the entire time! You must go outside and build a snowman or start a snowball fight. Ice skating is fun, as well. There’s nothing like getting all bundled up only to have to take all the snow gear off a few minutes later.
I have warned you about wintertime in Minnesota. I have told you about how cold and miserable it can be, but you will probably have a good time here as long as you don’t come when it’s -30 degrees. If you don’t believe that, and if I have you convinced that coming here in the winter is a bad idea, just plan your trip for the summer.
