Courtesy of Visit Cook County
On the third Thursday of October each year, Minnesota’s teachers gather together for a professional development conference, creating a de facto fall break for children and families. This long weekend, aka MEA Weekend, is a much-anticipated break for teachers and students, offering the perfect opportunity for families and friends to take advantage of the time off and explore a new part of the state. With autumn in full swing, this brief pause from the school year invites Minnesotans to explore new and nearby destinations where the fall foliage burns bright. Whether your family is seeking adventure, relaxation, or a blend of both, here are some ideas to make the most of your MEA weekend.
Grand Marais
Halfway up the North Shore, Grand Marais attracts creative spirits and outdoor enthusiasts with its thriving arts scene and lakeside scenery. Thanks to local arts organizations, travelers can explore historic galleries like the Johnson Heritage Post Art Gallery, named after Swedish immigrant and Grand Marais art pioneer Anna C. Johnson, or make their own pottery or painting class at the Grand Marais Art Colony.
The town’s creative energy is matched by its breathtaking natural surroundings, both along Lake Superior or into the Superior National Forest. There are several nearby state parks to hike, or travelers can drive 30 minutes inland to hike up Eagle Mountain, the highest point in Minnesota. Fall colors add a magical touch to the experience, with rich reds and golds framing each outdoor experience. Even if you’re not feeling up for a full hike, exploring the boutiques and breweries of downtown Grand Marais or walking out to Artist’s Point or the Grand Marais Lighthouse is always a delight.
Brainerd Lakes Area
Known as the “S’mores Capital of The World,” the Brainerd Lakes Area is the perfect place for fireside gatherings and classic fall treats. For generations, Minnesota families have spent weekends at historic lakeside properties like Madden’s on Gull Lake, Cragun’s Resort, and Grand View Lodge where on-site amenities include golf courses, spa services, and fine dining.
Be immersed in local history and nature at Crosslake Log Village, where costumed volunteers and preserved log cabins and stores illustrate life in Northern Minnesota during the early days of new settlers. Or explore the autumn woods on hundreds of miles of ATV and hiking trails.
Winona
In Southern Minnesota, Winona’s central location in the bluffs region makes for panoramic views of the river valley and fall foliage. Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy the scenic trails at the nearby Great River Bluffs State Park, with routes that wind through wooded areas and along picturesque overlooks. For a more leisurely outdoor experience, take a stroll through Winona’s lakeside parks, like Lake Park, or rent a kayak to explore the Mississippi River up close.
Fall is also an ideal time to wander downtown, where 11 city blocks have been added to the National Register of Historic Districts for their architecture. While in town, be sure to visit the celebrated Minnesota Marine Art Museum to see the collection of world-class artwork and special exhibitions with a connection to Minnesota’s water-centered culture.
Detroit Lakes
Located three and a half hours north of the Twin Cities, Detroit Lakes has been attracting attention recently as the site of famed eco-artist Thomas Dambo’s latest interactive art installation. In and around Detroit Lakes, join hundreds of other Minnesotans in a troll hunt as you comb the forest for Dambo’s giant troll statues, made of recyclable materials sourced from the area. In addition to the trolls, Detroit Lakes is surrounded by three state forests and three state parks, great for riverside hiking, picnics, and fishing.
Iron Range
Minnesota’s Iron Range is a vast region that stretches from Crosby to Ely, named for its iron mines. The area holds plenty of historic significance as the birthplace of legends like Bob Dylan and Judy Garland, but also where many historic sites sit alongside new restaurants, boutique stays, and art galleries.
Visitors to the Iron Range can explore the vastness of the Hull Rust Mine View in Hibbing, one of the largest open-pit mines in the world, or travel back in time to a classic logging camp at the Forest History Center, where a climb up the fire tower is rewarded with 360-degree views of fall foliage. The region is home to unique stays like the yurt and sauna experience at the charming Hotel Rapids and local gems such as Lake & Co,, Rapids Brewing Co., and the MacRostie Art Center.
For nature enthusiasts, the Tioga Recreation Area’s stunning 500 acres are crisscrossed by hiking and biking trails that showcase the Iron Range’s natural beauty, especially during the fall season. Venture further north to Biwabik for more mountain biking and golfing at Giant’s Ridge, one of the state’s best outdoor recreation areas.
Courtesy of Rapids Brewing
