State Symbols
What is Minnesota's state fish?
Walleye.
This became official in 1965. Walleyes are most at home in the large, clear, cool lakes of Minnesota’s northern forests; their eyes are sensitive to light, so they go to deep, dark waters during the day and move to shallow areas at night.
"Actions speak louder...
... than words."
It's easy to say things, but more difficult to act on them and follow through.
What is the capital of Minnesota?
St. Paul.
As of the 2020 census, the city had a population of 311,527. The Minnesota State Capital and the state government offices sit on a hill, overlooking a bend in the Mississippi River.
What is the largest planet in our solar system?
Jupiter.
Jupiter has a diameter of about 88,695 miles.
Which of the Great Lakes is located entirely within the United States?
Lake Michigan.
The other four Great Lakes (Huron, Ontario, Erie, and Superior) are located between Canada and the United States.
What is Minnesota's state flower?
The Pink and White Lady's Slipper.
This became the state flower in 1902. Its habitat is swamps, fens, bogs, and damp woods. This rare wildflower grows slowly, taking 4-16 years to produce its first flower, and can live as long as 50 years. It has been protected by state law, since 1925, making it illegal to pick or collect them.
"Those in glass houses...
... should not throw stones."
People should not criticize others for a flaw that they possess themselves.What is Minnesota's largest city by population?
Minneapolis.
The current population of Minneapolis, MN is 429,606. Minneapolis has become one of the most unique and culturally important cities in the United States.
What is the smallest country in the world?
Vatican City.
The Vatican City is only 120 acres of land.
What three animals are mentioned in the nursery rhyme “Hey, Diddle Diddle”?
A cat, a cow, and a dog.
Many sources indicate the nursery rhyme has been around since the 16th century. Theories about the meaning of the rhyme have been unproven. Most say it is simply a nonsense poem.
What is Minnesota's state bird?
Hint: they live on floating nests in the Boundary Waters.
The Loon.
This became the state bird in 1961. Known as the "great northern diver", the loon is an excellent swimmer and diver and can fly at high speeds. In the winter, it flies to warmer ocean water on the Atlantic and Pacific coasts.
"Absence makes...
... the heart grow fonder."
When we're away from loved ones, we long for their company more than in normal times.What Minnesota city is the hometown of Paul Bunyan?
Bemidji, MN.
Minnesota had the first Paul Bunyan statue, which was unveiled in 1937 in Bemidji.
What is the hardest natural substance on Earth?
Diamond.
The diamond has remained to be among the top spectacular gemstone of all time. Today, a diamond is widely considered a symbol of love.
Which is an example of onomatopoeia: ding-dong, house, or kayak?
Ding-Dong.
Onomatopoeia is the use of words that imitate the sounds they represent.
What is Minnesota's state grain?
Wild Rice.
This became the state grain in 1977. Minnesota produces over half of the world's hand-harvested wild rice - Canada produces the rest. Wild rice occurs naturally in shallow lakes and streams in late August or early September.
"Don't count your chickens...
... before they hatch."
Don't make plans based on future events that may not happen.
Which Minnesota city is home to the Mayo Clinic?
Rochester, MN.
The Mayo Clinic is the number one hospital in the world and is top-ranked in 13 specialties nationally.
What is the largest ocean by surface area?
The Pacific Ocean.
The Pacific Ocean covers more than 30% of the Earth's surface. It is the largest water mass on the planet.What kicking, punching animal is native to Australia?
Kangaroo.
Other animals unique to the “Land Down Under” are the emu and the koala.
What is Minnesota's state muffin?
Blueberry.
This became the state muffin in 1988. Wild blueberries are native to northeastern Minnesota, growing in bogs, on hillsides, and in cut-over forested areas.
"If at first you don't succeed...
... try, try again."
This proverb highlights the value of persistence and not giving up.
Which Minnesota city is home to the major port that is on Lake Superior?
Duluth, MN.
The city is a hub for cargo shipping. The population was 86,697 at the 2020 census, making it Minnesota's fifth-largest city.
What is the world's largest desert?
Antarctic Desert.
This desert is 5.5 million square miles.
What does al dente mean when cooking pasta?
Pasta should be cooked firm, but not hard.
Cooking pasta al dente prevents overcooking and soggy noodles, but it also helps pasta to better hold its shape and absorb sauces.