Twin Cities: Winter Vacation in Minneapolis-Saint Paul

Admittedly, a winter trip to the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, the capital of Minnesota, is not for those concerned about cold. The 32nd state is the second-coldest in the US after Alaska, and Minneapolis-Saint Paul is the frostiest metropolitan region in the entire country. However, those who venture to the north of the USA – with warm clothing in their luggage – will be rewarded with the unobtrusive and warm hospitality of Minnesotans.   

Minneapolis and Saint Paul are still two independent cities on the Mississippi that have grown together over time. Minneapolis is the younger and somewhat more boisterous sibling, with skyscrapers, hip bars, restaurants and clubs. In Saint Paul, the skyscrapers are not quite as tall, you can see old Victorian architecture on every corner and – as befits a seat of government – things are a little more dignified. 

Some things you shouldn't miss on a trip this winter: 

A New York Times reporter wrote in 1855 that the Twin Cities was a second Siberia, uninhabitable by humans. To prove the journalist wrong, the residents launched the Saint Paul Winter Carnival the following year. In 2026, it takes place from January 22 to February 1 and, as every year, offers parades, scavenger hunts, ice sculptures, ice fishing tournaments and much more.

Those who have had enough of ice and snow can warm up in the Hmong Village Shopping Center. The Hmong are an indigenous people from China and Southeast Asia. The largest diaspora outside of Asia can be found in Minneapolis-Saint Paul, where those Hmong who supported America in the Vietnam War and had to flee their homeland in the aftermath were resettled. Today, the Hmong enrich the Twin Cities not least with their food culture: papaya salad, pork belly and traditional soups are best enjoyed in the Hmong Village Shopping Center with its 17 restaurants. 

The Lake Harriet Winter Kite Festival is a lively event where visitors fly kites of all colors and shapes over the frozen lake. The festival is free, open to all ages, and takes place on the north shore of the lake on January 24 from noon to 4 p.m. If you like, you can bring your own kite or buy one on site. Food trucks will be on hand to provide hot drinks and snacks.

• A year-round highlight: the Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is free to enter (though donations are welcome). The warm conservatory is ideal for warming up in winter, and the zoo makes a nice stop for families.
• Architecture fans should explore Summit Avenue on foot — this is one of the longest rows of historic mansions in the U.S. You can combine this stroll with a visit to the Cathedral of Saint Paul and the James J. Hill House; wear sturdy shoes and allow enough time.
• For the best sunset skyline views, head to Harriet Island Regional Park along the Mississippi. Bring snacks and check ahead for local events: there are often markets or concerts at the nearby Landmark Center/Rice Park.