When the leaves start to change, and you bring out your favorite flannels and knit sweaters, the North Star State is the place to be. With stunning foliage reflecting across the lakes and ample community activities, Minnesota offers countless opportunities to embrace the well-loved season of fall. Whether you hope to get active or embark on a fun outing, this bucket list contains a few memorable must-do’s to launch you into the seasonal fun.
Admire the Fall Foliage
Ranked by Thrillist as the second-best state to visit during the fall, Minnesota prides itself on its stunning foliage. Take advantage of this seasonal treasure and enjoy a scenic backdrop in nature. Check the Minnesota DNR’s Fall Color Finder (and our roundup) to discover the best places to visit during the season and experience the autumnal wonder at its peak. We recommend checking out Hyland Hills Ski Area in Bloomington, where you can take chairlift rides to admire the changing leaves from a picturesque vantage point.
Hyland Lake Park Reserve
Enjoy a Fall Hike
Before the brutal cold of winter arrives, take the time to enjoy a hike in nature. Check out Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge’s list of trails denoted by varying hiking levels, or explore the wooded trails at Itasca State Park. Reward yourself with the remarkable views and a cup of hot chocolate afterward.
Photo by Tina Shaw of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Sample Autumnal Wine & Cider
To find the best seasonal wines and ciders, head to local wineries and breweries. Visit Urban Forage Winery and Cider House’s taproom in Minneapolis to find cozy ambiance amid city life. Each product is carefully curated using in-season ingredients from local fruit trees and small orchards, ensuring their menu provides the freshest finds.
Embark on a Ghost Tour
Heads up, thrill-seekers—Minnesota offers plenty of ways to get in the Halloween spirit, including several ghost tour experiences. Embark on Minneapolis Trolley Tours’ Candlelight Ghost Tour or US Ghost Adventures’ Twin City Ghosts Tour in St. Paul for a haunting adventure, and check out our roundup of other Spooky Season activities across the state.
Courtesy of Minneapolis Trolley Tours
Visit a Local Farmers Market
Fall is often the prime season to check out farmers markets, with the cool weather and unique goods making the experience enjoyable for all. Stock up on fresh autumn produce, sample locally baked goods (and all things pumpkin spice), and pick out a few pumpkins for carving.
Try the Fall Drinks at a New Coffee Shop
Nothing says autumnal bliss like sipping the perfectly sweet-and-spicy chai latte or pumpkin-spiced beverage. Try out a new coffee shop, bring along a few friends or your current read, and enjoy the cozy coffeehouse atmosphere. If you’re looking for new spots to try across the Twin Cities, read our coffee lover’s guide.
Courtesy of Cafe Astoria
