15 Fast Facts about Minnesota

Minnesota is the 12th largest state in the United States. The name “Minnesota” comes from a Dakota word meaning “sky-tinted waters”. The Mississippi River begins in Minnesota and is part of the great many rivers and streams that add up to 69,200 miles in Minnesota.

Home to The Mall of America, the Vikings, and Nickelodeon Universe, here are 15 fast facts about Minnesota.

Fast Facts about Minnesota:

1. Capital: Saint Paul
2. U.S. State Abbreviation: MN
3. Admission to Statehood: May 11, 1858
4. # State to Enter Union: 32nd
5. Time Zone(s): Central
6. Nickname: North Star State, Land of 10,000 Lakes
7. Largest City: Minneapolis
8. Number of Representatives: 8
9. Bird: Common Loon
10. Flower: Pink and white Lady’s-Slipper (Cypripedium reginae)
11. Flag Colors: Royal blue, with a gold fringe. In the center of the flag is the state seal.
12. Demonym: Minnesotan
13. Border States: Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin
14. Population (2013): 5,420,380; Rank: 21 of 50
15. Motto/Slogan: “L’Etoile du Nord” (star of the north)

Want to learn more? Check out these 15 Facts about Michigan