Minnesota launches walk-in COVID-19 vaccinations at state vaccine sites

Starting Friday, eligible Minnesotans can walk in for a COVID-19 vaccination without an appointment at the state’s Community Vaccination Program locations. As Minnesotans under 18 must receive consent from a parent or guardian, the state encourages parents, guardians and families to walk in and get vaccinated together.

"To end this pandemic, we need as many Minnesotans vaccinated as possible, as quickly as possible," said Gov. Tim Walz. "Walk-in vaccinations help us do just that by reducing barriers to make it even easier for folks to get their shot. The sooner we get shots in arms, the sooner we can get back to the things we love and the people we miss. We want Minnesotans to pile in the car, walk into a state site and get the whole family vaccinated."

Walk-ins for Minnesota residents that are 16 and older are now accepted at state community vaccination sites in Bloomington (Mall of America), St. Paul (Roy Wilkins Auditorium), Lino Lakes and Oakdale. Walk-ins for those who are 18 and older are now accepted at Mankato, Duluth, Rochester and St. Cloud as well.

Minnesotans can also continue to make Community Vaccination Program appointments ahead of time by visiting the state’s Vaccine Connector website.

According to a release, the federally-supported State Fairgrounds site is not currently accepting walk-ins at this time as it is currently administering second doses.

"The Community Vaccination Program is a key component of our vaccination network. It ensures families are able to easily get their shots in trusted and familiar locations," said Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan. "Today, everyone will be able to walk in for an easy, free, and safe appointment at these locations. We’re taking every step we can to make getting vaccinated as easy as possible, and we encourage you to invite your friends to meet at a vaccination site to walk in, get your shots together and end this pandemic."

Parents, guardians and families are highly encouraged to join 16- and 17-year-olds and get vaccinated at the same time. Program sites cannot vaccinate 16- or 17-year-olds without a parent or guardian consent, provided either at the clinic with a walk-in appointment, or during the pre-registration process for appointments made online.