Minneapolis in November: weather, events and what to know
November is the bridge between fall and winter in Minneapolis: the leaves are gone, the first snow often arrives and the skyways start earning their keep. It's a quiet, good-value month for museums, theater, food and live music, with Vikings home games and Thanksgiving bringing bursts of crowds. Clocks fell back on November 1, so the sun sets around 5 p.m. early in the month and earlier by the end.
November at a glance
- Typical temperatures: Highs near 40°F, lows in the upper 20s (approximate; swings are large)
- Conditions: Gray, windy days; the first measurable snow is typical
- Daylight: Clocks fell back Sunday, November 1; sunset is about 5 p.m. early in the month and near 4:30 p.m. by the end
- Crowd level: Low, spiking on game days and Thanksgiving weekend
- Thanksgiving: Thursday, November 26, 2026
Weather in Minneapolis in November and what to pack
A warm, insulated coat that blocks wind.
A hat, gloves and scarf; wind chill matters.
Insulated, waterproof boots with traction for icy sidewalks.
Warm base layers if you'll be outdoors for long.
Lip balm and moisturizer for dry indoor and outdoor air.
Daylight shrinks through the month: sunset moves from about 4:59 p.m. on November 1 to about 4:33 p.m. by November 30, with sunrise shifting from about 6:53 a.m. to about 7:29 a.m..
Top events in Minneapolis in November 2026
5 eventsAlso in Minneapolis in November
seasonal picks- KATSEYE at Target Center, Saturday, November 7.
- Vikings vs. Buffalo Bills, Monday, November 9,
- MercyMe at Target Center, Sunday, November 15.
- Vikings vs. San Francisco 49ers, Sunday, November 22,
- Thanksgiving, Thursday, November 26,
- Holiday season kickoff.
Crowds, prices and what to book ahead
Calmest: non-game weekdays in early and mid November. Busiest: Vikings game nights, concert nights and Thanksgiving weekend. Book ahead: hotels downtown on game nights, Guthrie Theater and First Avenue shows, and Thanksgiving dinner. Getting around: light rail and buses serve the stadium and downtown; the skyway connects many buildings above street level.
What changes in Minneapolis in November
Skyways and indoor attractions become the backbone of downtown.
Lakes start freezing, but early ice is not safe. Stay off unless officials say it's safe.
Patio season ends. Warm, cozy restaurants and bars take over.
Outdoor rinks and winter activities open later in the season.
Best things to do in November
5 picksVisit the Minneapolis Institute of Art (free general admission) or the Walker Art Center.
Stroll the skyways and the Mill District.
See a show at the Guthrie or a band at First Avenue.
Eat in Northeast Minneapolis, the North Loop or Eat Street.
Visit the Mall of America or the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul.
Sample November itinerary
Day 1: The Mill City Museum and riverfront, lunch in the North Loop, an afternoon at the Walker, and a show downtown.
Day 2: Minneapolis Institute of Art, a walk around Lake of the Isles if the weather allows, and a Vikings or concert night.
Getting around in November
Getting around: light rail and buses serve the stadium and downtown; the skyway connects many buildings above street level.
Questions
6 answersIs Minneapolis worth visiting in November?
Yes, for museums, theater, music and food at lower prices, if you pack for the cold.
Does it snow in Minneapolis in November?
Often. The first measurable snow usually arrives this month.
What should I wear in Minneapolis in November?
A warm coat, hat, gloves, scarf and waterproof boots.
When do clocks change?
Daylight saving time ended at 2 a.m. on Sunday, November 1, 2026.
What are the skyways?
Enclosed walkways connecting downtown buildings, useful for staying warm.
Which Vikings games are in November?
Home games listed for November 9 and 22 at U.S. Bank Stadium. --- *An independent local guide. Weather figures are approximate climate norms. Verify event dates, kickoff times and ticket details with official sources before you go.*