8 Undeniable Difference Between the Northern And Southern Parts of Minnesota
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Betsy Rathburn
Author
No matter what neck of the woods you’re from, Minnesotans in every corner of the state have more similarities than differences. All of us share a mutual love of our state’s gorgeous natural scenery, incredible cultural events, and friendly fellow Minnesotans. Despite our similarities, however, there are still a few fundamental differences – especially between people in the northern and southern parts of the state. These 8 undeniable differences between northern and southern Minnesota prove just that.
Like it or not, northern Minnesotans are more likely to have strong accents. It makes sense if you think about it: rural parts of the state are less likely to have outside influence than the more populous southern cities. Of course, if you ask someone from another state, they'll say we all sound the same.
Southern Minnesotans are lucky - or not, depending on your perspective - to get a lot less snow than northern Minnesotans. Sure, the Twin Cities get a dumping every now and then. But it's almost never a lot in comparison to northern towns - especially those getting lake effect snow along the North Shore.
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Of course, Minnesotans everywhere love biting into a Juicy Lucy or a warm tater tot hotdish every once in a while. These iconic dishes define the whole state. But up north, you're more likely to run into other classics, like booyah dinners or plates of lefse. In the south, foodie culture has more of a hold, with plenty of new and unusual restaurants opening up and influencing palates in the Twin Cities.
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For people in southern Minnesota, going up north is a thing you do every long weekend you get. If you're already up north? Less traffic, less stress, and a whole lot more enjoyment of Minnesota's most beautiful landscapes.
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Since southern Minnesota is home to its largest cities, it makes sense that life is a little more fast-paced there. Up north, everything is just a bit more calm: slower traffic, less waiting in lines, and more space to spread out. Sounds heavenly!
Have you ever found yourself referring to Minneapolis and St. Paul - the Twin Cities - as "the cities"? If you have, you might be from northern Minnesota. Sure, other people in Greater Minnesota may use that term, too. But it's most often associated with people from the north!
In southern Minnesota - especially around the Twin Cities - things are a little more congested. Even driving just 5 miles can take a half an hour or more. Taking a trip down the road to Target can feel like an ordeal. But in the north, the nearest shopping areas may be much further. It's still an ordeal to drive far, but the lower traffic levels may make it just a big more enjoyable.
Sure, southern Minnesota has a lot going for it. The Twin Cities are home to many beautiful parks, including Minnehaha Falls. And beyond the metro area, state parks in every direction offer natural beauty. Southwestern Minnesota is home to prairies and cliffs, and the southwest is all about bluffs with river views. Up north, thousands upon thousands of lakes await. Not to mention thick forests, unpolluted streams, the Boundary Waters, and Minnesota's only national park. The two regions couldn't be more different, but they're both equally beautiful.
Minnesotans, what other difference between the north and south can you think of? Let us know in the comments below.
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