Changes to take effect as part of statewide stay at home order

A stay at home order from Gov. Tim Walz goes into effect at 11:59 p.m. Friday.

It’s the governor’s strictest executive order yet and urges Minnesotans to limit activity outside to only essential needs.

Under the executive order, the state does have the ability to arrest someone not following the order, however, Walz said state leaders have no desire to implement that.

Friday afternoon, both the Minneapolis mayor and police chief are expected to release more information on how that part of the order affects those in Minneapolis.

Although many bars and restaurants remain closed, some are offering take-out options. Gyms, zoos, museums and hair and nail salons are also shut down.

However, under the order, Minnesotans don’t have to stay locked inside. Outdoor activities are fine.

Minnesotans can also go out and shop for groceries, gas or personal supplies.

Travel in and out of Minnesota is also allowed.

Although everyone will have to practice social distancing, tourist information center Explore Minnesota wants everyone to feel optimistic and enjoy nature.

5 EYEWITNESS NEWS caught up with people who were doing just that.

"This morning, we were just working from home and decided it was a really nice day outside, and it is, so we decided to go on a walk around the island," Libby Weaver, from Chicago, said. "I almost don’t need my coat, (it’s) not even windy."

When outside, those in Minneapolis might notice a few changes in effect.

In an effort to promote social distancing in the midst of a statewide stay at home order, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) is implementing some path and road closures.

Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board announces parkway, path closures to promote social distancing

According to a release, sections of West River Parkway and SE Main Street will close by 5 p.m. Friday and will remain in place until April 10 at 5 p.m.

Find a list of things you can and cannot do during the stay at home order here

Stay with 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS and KSTP.com for updates on the stay at home order.