Winter in Minneapolis and St. Paul

1. How Bad is the Winter?

This bad. Winter in Minneapolis and St. Paul is very cold, very snowy, and very long.

2. Dressing for the Winter Weather

Buying a coat, boots, and accessories that will make life more comfortable in the cold.

3. Driving in the Winter

Cars need to be well maintained to last through the winter. Here's a list of the most important things to take care of so your car will see you through the winter safely..

But even with the most well-looked after car, unexpected mechanical problems and severe snowstorms can strand drivers. A car emergency kit could save your life. Here's how to put a winter car emergency kit together.

4. Parking in the Winter

After heavy snowfalls, the cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul declare a "snow emergency" which is a set of parking restrictions governing where cars can be parked on city streets. Every city in the Twin Cities metro area has it's own set of parking rules, and different circumstances under which they are applied. If you are parking on a street, learn the rules for that city and avoid a ticket or a tow.

• Snow Emergency Parking in Minneapolis
• Snow Emergency Parking in St. Paul

Every city in the Metro area has their own snow plowing ordinances and parking regulations. Here's a list of snow parking regulations for some cities in the Twin Cities metro area.

5. Paying For Heat in the Winter

Heating bills can be a huge burden to many families. Spread the cost over the whole year, and avoid having your heat disconnected if you can't pay the heating bill, under the protection of Minnesota's Cold Weather Rule.

6. Getting Around Downtown: The Skyway System

It's bliss being able to get around much of downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul without going outside using the skyway systems.

7. Winter Sports and Activities

Minneapolis and St. Paul are ranked among the healthiest cities in the country. Here's where to get your exercise and be active inside and out of the cold.

And of course, many Twin Cities residents want to get outside and play in the snow. Here's where to go skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing in and around the Twin Cities.

8. Winter Fun

The Winter Carnival, held in St. Paul in late January and early February, is the major winter event in the Twin Cities. The Winter Carnival features ice and snow sculptures, traditional Minnesotan foods, and a grand parade through downtown St. Paul.