Joey Saves The Day!: Facts about Minnesota

Learn facts about Minnesota for kids.

Last week, we shared informative facts about Michigan. This week, dive into the fascinating world of Minnesota! Discover intriguing facts about the state's flag, bird, and more that make Minnesota unique and special. Don't miss out on learning what sets this state apart!

Did you know Minnesota was the thirty-second (32^nd) state to join the union? Minnesota officially became a state on May 11, 1858, making it the 32nd state to enter the United States. Located in the upper Midwestern region, Minnesota is renowned for its diverse geography, which encompasses expansive forests, numerous lakes, and the northern shores of Lake Superior, the world's largest freshwater lake by surface area.

The state shares its borders with four other states: Wisconsin to the east, Iowa to the south, and South Dakota and North Dakota to the west. Additionally, Minnesota has an international border with Canada to the north, which features several entry points and breathtaking natural landscapes.

As the twelfth-largest state in the United States by area, Minnesota encompasses roughly 86,943 square miles, making it one of the largest states in the nation. The population of Minnesota is approximately 5,707,390 residents, contributing to a rich cultural landscape marked by a blend of urban centers, such as Minneapolis and Saint Paul, and vibrant rural communities. The state is renowned for its outdoor recreational opportunities, strong education system, and commitment to the arts, making it a unique and appealing place to live and visit.

Minnesota famous person alert:

Did you know the legendary musician Prince Rogers Nelson, widely known as Prince, resided in Chanhassen, Minnesota? This talented individual was a prolific songwriter, a captivating singer, and a masterful instrumentalist. His remarkable skills allowed him to play over 20 different instruments, showcasing his versatility and creativity in music.

Facts about Minnesota:

1. Minnesota is widely recognized for its iconic Mall of America, one of the largest shopping malls in the United States, offering a vast range of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. The state is also celebrated for its stunning natural beauty. It is characterized by picturesque landscapes that include rolling hills, dense forests, and an impressive number of lakes, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking activities like fishing, boating, and hiking.

Minnesota boasts several nicknames that reflect its unique characteristics, including the "Land of 10,000 Lakes," which highlights the state's abundance of lakes, and the "Gopher State," a term believed to have originated from the state’s history with fur trading. Additionally, it is known as the "North Star State," a nickname that resonates with its northern location and the state's commitment to guiding principles.

The official state motto, L'Étoile du Nord, translates to "The Star of the North" in French. This motto was adopted in 1861 and embodies Minnesota’s aspiration for leadership and enlightenment. The official postal abbreviation for Minnesota is MN, which helps identify the state in various contexts, including mailing packages and travel documentation. Minnesota is rich in culture, history, and natural resources, making it a remarkable place to live or visit.

2. Saint Paul is the capital city of Minnesota, having officially earned this status in 1849. Located along the banks of the Mississippi River, it is known for its rich history and vibrant culture. As of the latest estimates, the city has a population of approximately 305,877 residents. Saint Paul is recognized for its historic architecture, including the stunning Minnesota State Capitol building. It is home to several museums, parks, and cultural institutions celebrating the area's heritage and community spirit.

3. The state bird of Minnesota is the Common Loon (Gavia immer), commonly referred to as the Great Northern Diver. This designation was made official on March 13, 1961, recognizing the loon’s significance to the state's natural heritage.

The Common Loon is a strikingly beautiful bird, notable for its large size and distinctive coloration. It typically has a black head and neck, a dark gray back, and a white underbelly, with intricate black-and-white checkered patterns on its wings. Its bright red eyes add to its dramatic appearance.

This aquatic bird is well-known for its remarkable diving abilities, capable of plunging to great depths to catch fish and other underwater prey. In addition to swimming and diving, Common Loons are known for their eerie, haunting calls that echo across northern lakes, particularly during the breeding season. These sounds are often associated with the tranquility and beauty of Minnesota’s wilderness, making the Common Loon a symbol of the state and a cherished part of its ecosystem.

4. The Showy Lady's Slipper (Cypripedium reginae) is the official state flower of Minnesota, celebrated for its vibrant and delicate beauty. This striking orchid is characterized by its unique appearance, featuring large, white petals with a hint of pink, forming a distinctive pouch shape that attracts pollinators. The Showy Lady's Slipper thrives in specific wetland habitats, often found in marshy areas, along the edges of forests, or in other moist, shaded environments throughout Minnesota.

This enchanting flower blooms during the warm months, specifically from June to July, creating a picturesque landscape filled with stunning colors. Interestingly, the Showy Lady's Slipper is a perennial flowering plant, meaning it will return year after year. However, it has a long reproductive cycle, taking up to 16 years for a plant to produce its first bloom. The slow growth and specific environmental needs make this flower a rare and treasured part of Minnesota's natural heritage.

Designated as the official state flower in 1902, the Showy Lady's Slipper holds a special place in the hearts of Minnesotans. It symbolizes the state's rich biodiversity and natural beauty. Conservation efforts are vital to ensure the survival of this remarkable plant, as its habitat can be threatened by development and environmental changes.

5. Minnesota's current state flag was officially adopted in 1957 and features a striking blue background that represents the sky and the state's waters. At the center of the flag is Minnesota's coat of arms, which showcases an array of symbols that reflect the state's rich history and natural beauty. The coat of arms features a lively depiction of a farmer plowing his field, a Native American on horseback, a lake surrounded by trees, and various state flowers and fruits. This design highlights Minnesota's agricultural heritage and indigenous culture, making the flag a unique representation of the state’s identity and values.

6. In Minnesota, diverse crops are cultivated due to its rich soil and favorable climate. Among the most prominent are corn, which is widely used for both human consumption and livestock feed; barley, often utilized in brewing and animal feed; soybeans, a key source of protein and oil; sugar beets, which are processed to produce sugar; and wheat, an essential grain for bread and other baked goods. These crops significantly contribute to the state's agricultural economy and are vital for both local and national food production.

7. Minnesota is home to several exciting attractions worth visiting. One of the most iconic is the Mall of America in Bloomington, which is not only one of the largest shopping malls in the United States but also features an indoor amusement park, an aquarium, and a variety of dining options. It’s an excellent destination for shopping, entertainment, and family fun all in one place.

Another unique spot to check out is Sand Creek Adventures, located in Scott County. This outdoor adventure park offers thrilling activities, including zip-lining, paintball, and obstacle courses, making it a perfect destination for adventure seekers and families seeking an exciting day.

Lastly, the Minneapolis Institute of Art is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. This renowned museum houses an extensive collection of over 90,000 works of art spanning thousands of years and various cultures. Free admission provides an incredible opportunity to explore a diverse range of artistic expressions, from classic pieces to contemporary installations.

Each location showcases a different aspect of Minnesota’s vibrant culture and recreational offerings.

8. Minnesota is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the majestic bald eagle, renowned for its striking white head and impressive wingspan. The state also hosts black bears, often seen foraging for food in forests and along the shores of lakes. With their vibrant fur and bushy tails, Fox squirrels can frequently be spotted scampering through urban parks and wooded areas. Moose roam the wetlands and forests in the vast northern regions, showcasing their towering stature and distinctive antlers during mating season. Additionally, the white-tailed deer is a common sight throughout Minnesota, often seen grazing in fields and near wooded areas, particularly during dawn and dusk. Together, these animals contribute to the rich biodiversity of Minnesota’s natural environment.

9. Minnesota experiences extreme temperatures throughout the year, ranging from very hot to cold. The highest temperature recorded in the state was 114 degrees Fahrenheit, which occurred in Moorhead on July 6, 1936. On the other hand, the lowest temperature recorded was -60 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees below zero) in Tower on February 2, 1996.

Get your free printable Minnesota worksheet here:

Minnesota worksheet

Books about Minnesota:

1. My United States Minnesota by Martin Schwabacher

2. Little Minnesota by Kathy-jo Wargin

3. M Is For Minnesota by Dori Hillestad Butler

4. Minnesota Facts by Mimi Jones

Hey, parents and caregivers! This is a friendly reminder to ensure the books you select for storytime are suitable for your little ones. Happy reading!

You can Click here to purchase the 50 States workbook on Amazon.