10 Unforgettable Fall Getaways From Minneapolis

When people think of "fall getaways," no single destination typically comes to mind. It is rarely easy to find the perfect destination that truly captures the season's beauty. A city like Minneapolis can help narrow one’s choices, though. Minnesota's largest city was not built overnight, but it was established on an artesian aquifer atop flat terrain and is renowned for having both cold, snowy winters and hot, humid summers. In other words, right now, in between all that, is the perfect time to go. Whether you want to visit a pumpkin patch or apple orchard, attend a fall festival, or take a refreshing fall-themed hike with your camera in hand, the only challenge you might face is how to fit everything into your limited time with so many activities to choose from. This article looks at what a fall getaway might look like there and some of the things that will make you want to come back next year.

Taylors Falls

Just an hour's drive from the city of Minneapolis, Taylors Falls sits along the St. Croix River. Gorgeous this time of year, this elegant city includes the Interstate State Park, where you can hike trails that wind past ancient glacial potholes (so make sure to pass by the Glacial Potholes Historical Marker). Of course, you cannot visit this place without hopping on a boat tour, which really is the best way to take your fall-themed pictures of the foliage and other sights from the water. Finally, the nearby Franconia Sculpture Park hosts fall events, including outdoor art installations and live music.

Afton State Park

Looking for an unforgettable experience? This spot has quiet, expansive prairies that really bring out the bright fall colors. Not too far from the main city, Afton State Park is popular for birdwatching, as many species migrate through this time of year. The hardwood forests are especially beautiful in late September and October, making this an ideal hiking spot conveniently situated on the banks of the St. Croix River. So, if you are planning an outdoor trip or just a picnic, this area should be at the top of your to-do list. Moreover, if you drop by a bit later in the season, the nearby Afton Alps ski area is ideal for some snowy fun.

Stillwater

One of the oldest towns in Minnesota, Stillwater sits on the Minnesota-Wisconsin border and is just 30 minutes from Minneapolis. Such convenience also comes with a myriad of antique shops and cozy cafes like Oasis Cafe in the town’s historic downtown streets. The historic lift bridge (or St. Croix Crossing) and St. Croix River are the primary attractions here, but the best way to truly embrace the season is with a hot air balloon ride, a trip that gives a bird's-eye view of the river and rolling landscape during peak fall color. For a more relaxing time, watch the river’s flow from Lumberjack Landing.

Frontenac State Park

A beautiful park just off the Mississippi River bluffs, Frontenac is a relatively short ride from the main city. It is an excellent spot to fully experience this season through Minneapolis’ diverse landscapes, including forests, prairies, and marshlands. Fall is also a wonderful time for birdwatching, especially the hawk migration, so get your binoculars and cameras ready. There are over 13 miles of hiking trails overlooking the famous Mississippi River—an incredible perk in itself—and camping at the Frontenac State Park Campground means you get to see Wisconsin across the river.

Lake Pepin

Part of the famous national landmark—the Mississippi River—this particular spot doubles as a tranquil lake where visitors can explore, fish, hike, or camp nearby. The Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum in the town of Pepin is worth a visit, adding a historical flavor to your trip—especially since the Great River Road, which runs along the lake, is one of the best drives in the Midwest for this season. It is roughly a one-hour drive from Minneapolis, but well worth the ride. Once you see the surreal, relaxing reflection of the trees in the lake’s calm waters, you will quickly realize this is the perfect fall getaway.

Whitewater State Park

Southeast of Minneapolis, this park has some unique perks. For one thing, this weather makes it perfect for exploring the area; there are no mosquitoes, it is cool and compelling, and there are plenty of picnic areas that look out over the changing trees, so plan around a peaceful fall-themed lunch. Middle Fork Whitewater River runs through the park, giving all you anglers out there a great spot for trout fishing. The avid shutterbug should also be excited; you will quickly notice that the limestone bluffs and deep ravines bring out some truly breathtaking colors at this time of year.

Red Wing

A slice of paradise by the Mississippi, this river town is home to many a landmark. The famous Barn Bluff provides challenging hiking trails with incredible views over the river and the town, especially during fall. There are a number of harvest festivals and art fairs that take place downtown, such as the Red Wing Arts Fall Festival, a collection of fine art in October with a side of music, drinks, and dance. Moreover, one can visit the Anderson Center if they also wish to meet local artists— they hold fall open studios. Fun fact: Red Wing Shoes, an iconic American brand, originated here, and the town’s boot museum (Red Wing Marine Museum) is definitely worth a visit.

St. Croix State Park

As Minnesota’s largest state park, this area has over 200 miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, and the forest is absolutely glowing with fall colors this time of year. The park offers canoe rentals for paddling down the St. Croix River, all bordered by gorgeous white and red pine. It is fairly remote, so stargazing is a common practice here, away from the city lights—it makes for an excellent campfire during those crisp fall nights. Finally, if you are interested, the park’s interpretive center also has fall programs on the history of the region’s Native American tribes. Cabins are available for rent, so one can stay back and explore the park’s 33,000-acre wilderness.

Lake Mille Lacs

Just under two hours north of Minneapolis, Mille Lacs is one of the largest lakes in Minnesota. This entire area is an unforgettable experience in itself and provides you with a great deal of opportunities to experience a calm fall sunset as the lake reflects the surrounding fiery trees. So you can get your cameras read, but make sure you also get a fishing pole. Known for its excellent fall fishing, with walleye and muskie biting well into October. The best part? There are fall harvest events at local farms around the lake that let visitors pick their own apples or pumpkins. If you’re looking for some exploration on land, the Mille Lacs State Wildlife Management Area is full of natural scenery.

New Ulm

This small town is home to Schell’s Brewery, one of the oldest breweries in the U.S., and if you want to really embrace the spirits of this season, you had better not miss the special fall tours and beer tastings. Of course, Oktoberfest events are held here in New Ulm, where the town transforms with music, food, and traditional German dancing. The town certainly has a rich German heritage, highlighted by the Hermann Heights Monument—a towering statue that overlooks the area, providing you with stunning views of the fall landscape.

Final Thoughts

You could not have chosen a better time for a vacation, getaway, or just a weekend visit. Fall just has so many advantages over winter and summer, where the weather can be extreme, depending on your destination. Minneapolis has so much to offer, and this beautiful weather is not something that lasts forever—much as tourists would all like it to. It is essential to take advantage of these things when the time is right; timing is everything, like with most things. The when is decided, and the where is Minneapolis. If you are still overwhelmed by the sheer number of options available statewide, just know that one of the best choices, encompassing all the fall-themed activities you want, is within this 58 square miles and slightly beyond.