Minnesota, USA — visiting The North Star State

The state’s nickname is ‘The North Star State’.
The North Star symbol is found in the flag, the seal, and the motto: “L’Etoile du Nord”.
The state is often referred to as ‘Land of 10.000 Lakes’ since there exist an estimated number of 10,000 up to 15,000 lakes in the state which makes it a great outdoor destination. Another nickname – ‘The Bread and Butter State’ – tells about the strong agricultural economy and position the state had in the mid of the 19th century. But one still gets an excellent butter and bread there which is another reason to visit Minnesota.

The state name derives from the language of the Sioux and means ‘water with clouds’.

The two big cities in the state are St. Paul and Minneapolis which melted together over the years which is the reason for their nickname: “Twin Cities”. The Mississippi River divides both cities.

What to do / Sightseeing

• St. Paul / Minneapolis, the Twin Cities
• New Ulm, the City of Charme
• Mall of America (see also the related topic: History of Malls in America )

State Data & Essentials

State Name
Minnesota  – State Abbr.: MN
Statehood
11-Mai-1858
– Statehood Ranking: 32
Land Area
79,610 square miles  (206,182 qkm)
– Land Area Ranking: 14
Population
5,303,925 (2010 Census); 4,919,479 (2000 Census)
Capital
St. Paul
Biggest City
Minneapolis
Nickname
The North Star State
Motto
“L’Etoile du Nord” (== Star of the North)
Highest Point
701 m / 2,300 ft (Eagle Mountain)
Lowest Point
183,5 m / 602 ft (Lake Superior)
Daylight Saving Time: yes
Tree
Norway Pine (pinus resinosa)
Flower
Pink and White Lady Slipper (cypripedium reginae)
Bird
Common Loon (gavia immer)
Song
“Hail! Minnesota” (1904/05 by two students)

Map