Can You See The Northern Lights in Minnesota?

If you’re planning to go on a northern lights tour, then the first question that comes to your mind is probably where to go. Many people assume that the only place to witness this amazing natural phenomenon is in Alaska or Norway. But did you know that you can also see the northern lights in Minnesota? Yes, you read that right! Minnesota is one of the best places to see the aurora borealis in the US. In this blog post, we will explore everything you need to know about seeing the northern lights in Minnesota.

What are The Northern Lights?

Before we dive in, let’s have a quick overview of what the northern lights are. The northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are a natural phenomenon that occurs when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth’s atmosphere. These collisions release energy in the form of colorful lights that dance across the sky. They are most commonly seen in areas close to the North Pole, but they can also be seen in other northern regions of the world.

Why Minnesota is a Good Place to See the Northern Lights?

Minnesota is located in the northern part of the US and is close to the North Pole. This means that the state has a high chance of sighting the aurora borealis. Additionally, Minnesota has a low level of light pollution, which means that you will have a better chance of seeing the northern lights than in other cities with high levels of light pollution. Lastly, Minnesota has a varied landscape that offers different viewing opportunities. While you can observe the northern lights from the cities, you can also go to more remote areas for a spectacular display.

When is The Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Minnesota?

The northern lights can be seen in Minnesota from mid-September through April. However, the best time to see them is from mid-November to mid-February when the nights are the longest. During this period, the skies are usually clear, and the temperatures are cold. This might make it challenging to witness the aurora borealis, but it also offers the most spectacular displays.

Where to See the Northern Lights in Minnesota?

The best places to see the northern lights in Minnesota are:

1. Voyageurs National Park

Located in the northern part of the state, Voyageurs National Park is a beautiful wilderness area that offers some of the best viewing opportunities. The park is open year-round, and visitors can go on guided night tours to see the aurora borealis.

2. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is a protected area located in the Superior National Forest. It is a remote area with no light pollution, making it a perfect spot for witnessing the northern lights.

3. Lake Superior’s North Shore

The North Shore of Lake Superior offers a beautiful scenic drive with stunning views of the aurora borealis. This region has numerous resorts and lodges that offer guided tours to see the northern lights.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Minnesota is a great place to see the northern lights in the US. With its northern location, low levels of light pollution, and beautiful landscape, visitors can expect a stunning display of the aurora borealis. Remember to plan your trip between mid-November to mid-February, and check the weather forecasts before making the journey to the locations we’ve mentioned. Happy voyaging!

An Insider’s Guide to Minneapolis, Minnesota

Are you planning a trip to Minnesota and wondering if you can see the Northern Lights there? Minneapolis, the state’s largest city, is a perfect place to experience the ethereal beauty of the Aurora Borealis. But there’s more, much more to the city than just the Northern Lights. Here is an insider’s guide that covers some hidden gems, cultural experiences, local history, dining spots, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will make your trip to Minneapolis, Minnesota unforgettable:

Local Attractions

Minneapolis has a lot to offer when it comes to local attractions, but some of the hidden gems that only locals know about include:

1. Minnehaha Regional Park: The park is a perfect place for hiking and has a scenic waterfall, which remains frozen in the winters, making for an excellent view.
2. Mill City Museum: The museum houses the history of flour mills and how Minneapolis, the flour milling capital of the world, came to be.
3. Split Rock Lighthouse State Park: Located on the rugged North Shore of Lake Superior, about two hours from Minneapolis, is worth the drive just for the stunning views of the lighthouse and the lake.

Dining spots

Minneapolis is known for its local cuisine, and trying it is a must to have an authentic experience. Here are some places where you can get the best local cuisine that Minneapolis has to offer:

1. Blue Door Pub: Here, you can get the Juicy Lucy, the quintessential burger filled with melted cheese.
2. Pizzeria Lola: The place is named after the owner’s Weimaraner dog, Lola and serves some of the best Neapolitan-style pizza in the city.
3. The Bachelor Farmer: The restaurant serves Nordic-inspired dishes in an elegant atmosphere and uses only the fresh seasonal ingredients.

Cultural experiences

Minneapolis has a rich tradition of festivals, art, and music.

1. The Northern Spark Festival is a night-long art event that transforms Minneapolis into a hub of interactive art installations, performances, and more.
2. First Ave nightclub is where some of the world’s most famous musicians have performed, including Prince, The Replacements, and Atmosphere.
3. The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is a must-visit for art lovers. It has more than 40 works of art in a 19-acre park.

Local history

Minneapolis has a fascinating past, and learning about its history can give you a better understanding of its present.

1. The Mary Tyler Moore Statue: As a tribute to the famous actress, who played a local news producer in the city, the statue celebrates the iconic moment where Mary tosses her hat into the air.
2. The Wood Lake Battlefield: Marking the end of the Dakota War of 1862, the battlefield was the largest violent conflict between US soldiers and Native American tribes. A guided tour brings to life the conflict between the Dakota and the U.S. government.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

If you want to explore Minneapolis beyond crowded tourist areas, here are some off-beat options:

1. Escape The Room: It’s an interactive game where a group of people can solve a series of puzzles and riddles to escape a locked room in less than an hour.
2. The Soap Factory Haunted Basement: A popular October event, the Soap Factory Haunted Basement is an immersive, interactive experience that takes participants on a terrifying journey through a haunted basement.
3. Surly Brewing Co: The local brewery offers a free tour of the facility, followed by a tasting of the brewery’s beer, which is as famous as the city itself.

Minneapolis has something to offer for everyone – food, history, culture, adventures, and more. So, pack your bags and prepare yourself to fall in love with the city.