Plunging temps and feet of snow make winter in Minneapolis a true adventure. If you’re moving to the Twin Cities or new to the area, adopt the hearty Minnesotan spirit and embrace the cold-weather months. These tips for winter will help you survive and thrive.

Get the Gear

First things first, make an investment in quality winter clothes and outerwear. Stock up on thermals or clothing made with Merino wool that can be easily layered when going outside. Choose a puffer coat with a 600-plus fill-power down and boots that are both warm and waterproof. Don’t forget wool socks for a Minneapolis winter!

Be Prepared

Frostbite can happen within 30 minutes of -10 degree weather. Once you move to the Twin Cities, stock your vehicle with key essentials in case you get stranded. Put an extra pair of boots, mittens, and a hat in your trunk, plus your emergency service kit. You’ll also want to have a long-handled ice scraper or a small shovel to remove snow and ice from your car.

Check Out the Lakes

If you’re wondering what there’s to do in the Twin Cities during the winter, look no further than the lakes. Most city lakes freeze in mid-December, making the perfect setting for Minneapolis winter fun. The City of Lakes Loppet Winter Festival’s Luminary Loppet for walking, snowshoeing, or skiing is a must. And the Art Shanty Project is a really exciting way to experience art right on the lake!  

Feeling a bit more adventurous? Try ice climbing at one of the regional parks. 

Move Your Car

Here’s one of the most practical tips for winter: know the snow emergency rules for your city. The first winter storm in Minneapolis each year usually leads to thousands of tickets and countless vehicles towed to make room for snowplows to clear the roads. Read the guidelines for when to move your car and be sure to sign up for alerts for an extra reminder!

Grab Your Skates

Moving to the Twin Cities means you’re entering the State of Hockey. See teams of locals fly across the ice with a stop at the U.S. Pond Hockey Championships on Lake Nokomis. Ready to lace up your own skates? Check out one of the many local rinks open throughout winter in Minneapolis. Or, try the iconic Lake of the Isles Park.

No Idling

Getting into a cold car is one of the downfalls of a Minneapolis winter. If you’re considering letting your vehicle idle as you finish getting ready for the day, think again. Car idling to warm up the engine is a common myth and isn’t necessary. It wastes gas and increases carbon emissions. In the City of Minneapolis, car idling is restricted to three minutes per hour.

Your Minneapolis Winter Moving Expert

We hope these tips for winter in Minneapolis help you feel excited about surviving winter weather. No matter which season you move to the Twin Cities, AAA Movers is ready to help you plan a stress-free move from start to finish. Read all about our AAA Promise and request a free quote today!