10 Picture Perfect Fall Day Trips To Take In Minnesota
There’s so much to explore in Minnesota. Whether you’re a visitor or a lifelong resident of our great state, you’ve likely researched “day trips near me in Minnesota.” And that’s what we’re here to help with! Now that the heat of summer has left Minnesota, it’s time to start planning some fall activities. But don’t let the lower temperatures keep you inside. There’s plenty of time to curl up under a blanket this winter. This time of year, it’s time to take in the crisp weather by exploring Minnesota through its many fall activities. From pumpkin patches to scenic drives, these beautiful day trips are picture-perfect for when you crave some fall fun. Ready for an entire season filled with adventures? Pack up the car and let’s go!
Admittedly, this road trip will probably take more than a day. But why not choose one or two destinations from it? It spans north to south, visiting many of Minnesota's most incredible state parks. These prime places to spot fall foliage are ideal for a long day or two of fall fun.
Click here to read about the complete trip.
The entirety of Minnesota will experience gorgeous fall colors, of course. But it's the northernmost areas that seem the most special during this time of year. With thick northern forests giving way to serene lakes - often with not a soul in sight - it makes sense to take a hike up north in the fall. Anywhere from Lake Itasca State Park to Grand Portage State Park would be a good choice. Check out the fall foliage map to plan the best time.
The granddaddy of Minnesota corn mazes, Sever's never disappoints. This year, the huge maze is Australia themed. When you've found your way out of it, there are loads of other activities to try. The Sever's Fall Festival also features a petting zoo, a corn pit, lots of climbing activities, and more. Learn more about planning your trip by visiting the Sever's Corn Maze website.
Sever's Corn Maze & Farm Market, 3121 W 150th St, Shakopee, MN 55379, USA
Sure, you can buy apples at the store. But there's something special about reaching up to pick one for yourself. And because Minnesota is the birthplace of the world's tastiest apple - the honeycrisp - it is our duty to partake in fall apple festivities. Among the many apple orchards in Minnesota, Aamodt's stands out as one of the best. It's a popular spot with lots of fall fun. When you're done picking your apples, you can buy cider, apple donuts, and other goodies. Learn more about all the festivities you can look forward to experiencing by visiting the Aamodt's Apple Farm website.
Aamodt's Apple Farm, 6428 Manning Ave N, Stillwater, MN 55082, USA
With New Ulm's German heritage, it's no wonder they celebrate Oktoberfest. Typically festivities include tours of the historic Schell's Brewery, live music, food, and plenty of beer. Ready to plan your festival weekend? Check out the New Ulm Oktoberfest website.
New Ulm, MN 56073, USA
6. Keep the party going with Wabasha's Septoberfest.
If you can't get enough of New Ulm's Oktoberfest, just pop over to Wabasha. This little town brings it with an entire month of fall activities it calls Septoberfest. There are parades, carriage rides, animals, foods, live music, and a lot more at this monthlong festival. For more information about this year's exciting event, head on over to the SeptOber Fest website.
Which one will you choose? There are plenty of good options in every corner of the state, but a personal favorite is Lanesboro. This small town is nestled in Minnesota's hilly southeast. The beautiful Root River runs through town, with the Root River hiking trail running right alongside it. After you're done exploring the scenery, the town has many interesting shops, restaurants, and hotels where you can hang your hat for the night. Learn more about what makes Lanesboro such a charming small town in Minnesota.
As the Apple Capital of Minnesota, it should come as no shock that La Crescent hosts an annual apple festival. Applefest is a chance for apple lovers to come together to celebrate their favorite fruit. There is an apple-themed 5K, a parade, and plenty of live entertainment during the four-day festival. Curious to learn more? Check out the details by visiting the La Crescent Applefest website.
Taylors Falls is gorgeous already, but when you add in a boat tour? Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours offer up-close views of the fall foliage surrounding the St. Croix River. You'll have a chance to see the season's colors mingle with the tall cliffs and sparkling water of the St. Croix. It's a beautiful experience that is well worth the drive. Book your excursion by visiting the Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours website.
10. Pile into the car for a colorful scenic drive.
There are lots of scenic rides to choose from, but the most famous is probably Highway 61. That's for good reason. This road follows along the North Shore from Duluth to Grand Portage, offering breathtaking views of Lake Superior. But in the fall, your attention may be diverted to the red and orange trees that will mark your way. Couple that with all of the incredible stops along the way - from Gooseberry Falls to Black Beach - and you have one of the best fall day trips you can take.
Duluth, MN, USA
Did we offer a little inspiration for your bucket list? Hopefully, the next time you go to research “day trips near me in Minnesota,” this handy list will come to mind. Will you do any of these fall day trips? Do you have any other favorite places to visit in the fall? Let us know in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you!
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The OIYS Visitor Center
day trips near me in Minnesota
September 13, 2021
Beth C.
What are some other great Minnesota day trips I can take?
While fall is a beautiful time to explore Minnesota, it's not the only season filled with adventures. That's right, even in the dead of winter you can find lots to do in Minnesota. Of course, many of the most popular day trips tend to be enjoyed in the warmer weather, when you don't need to bundle up quite as much. Some of the best day trips in Minnesota include the Hegman Lake Pictographs, Gooseberry Falls, Rapidan Dam Store, Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden, Aspelund Peony Gardens, Father Hennepin State Park, Treasured Haven Farm, Black Beach, Kerfoot Canopy Tours, King's Place Burgers, and Bentleyville. Learn more about these incredible day trips in Minnesota, one for each month of the year!
Where can I go in Minnesota that only the locals know about?
Exploring Minnesota as the locals do means venturing to some destinations that are a bit off the beaten path. Need some inspiration? One of our top recommendations would be to plan a trip to Redwood Falls. It's here you'll find Alexander Ramsey Park, which is considered the largest municipal park in Minnesota. In fact, it's even been granted the nickname "Little Yellowstone of Minnesota." Inside the park is the namesake falls as well as endless acres of beautiful wilderness. Despite being such a large attraction, it's considered one of the top hidden oases. Some other destinations to explore include Flandrau State Park, Eddy Falls, Normandale Japanese Garden, Two Harbors, and the Winona Boathouse Neighborhood. Learn more about these places in Minnesota that only the locals know about.
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Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.
