Minnesota doesn’t mess around when it comes to fall. We know the colder temps are coming soon, so it’s the perfect time to start mapping out your weekends before we’re stuck inside. From pumpkin patches and apple orchards to Oktoberfest beers and Halloween celebrations, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of the season. Here are some things worth checking out before the leaves, and the weather, change for good, along with some places to find them.
1. VISIT PUMPKIN PATCHES
Pumpkins aren’t just for carving, they’re for roasting, decorating, and making a fall day out of it. Many Minnesota pumpkin patches add hayrides, corn mazes, and petting zoos, so it’s easy to turn it into a full family outing.
2. PICK YOUR OWN APPLES
Minnesota is the birthplace of the Honeycrisp, so apple picking here is legit. Orchards across the state let you pick your own, and a lot of them also serve cider, pies, and other fall treats.
3. TAKE A DRIVE
Fall colors move from north to south starting in early September. Minnesota’s byways and state parks give you some of the best views in the country, but it only lasts a few weeks. Here are some of the best drives:
North Shore Route
Route: HWY. 61, Duluth to Grand Portage
Peak Color: Mid-Sept. to early Oct.
Iron Range Loop
Route: HWY. 169 from Virginia to Tower, HWY. 135 through Biwabik back to Virginia
Peak Color: Mid-Sept. to early Oct.
Mississippi Headwaters
Route: HWY. 71 between Park Rapids and Bemidji, plus numerous other roads around these towns
Peak Color: Mid-Sept. to early Oct.
Mississippi River Valley
Route: HWY. 61 between Red Wing and La Crescent
Peak Color: Mid-Oct.
4. ATTEND A HARVEST FESTIVAL
From pumpkin weigh-offs to scarecrow contests, harvest festivals are all over Minnesota this time of year. They often include craft fairs, food vendors, and plenty of small-town charm.
Lake Superior Harvest Festival
5. CELEBRATE OKTOBERFEST
Hold onto your lederhosen! Minnesota has strong German roots, and you’ll find Oktoberfest celebrations all across the state. Expect music, food, and plenty of beer - but note that Oktoberfest is celebrated in September!
6. FUN HALLOWEEN EVENTS
Anoka calls itself the Halloween Capital of the World, and they prove it with a month of parades and events. The Minnesota Zoo’s Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular is another must-see with thousands of glowing pumpkins.
Minnesota Zoo Jack-o-Lantern Spectacular
A and G Produce Moonlight Maze After Dark
7. other fun things to do
Fall in Minnesota isn’t just pumpkins and apples. If you don’t feel like driving, take a ride on a fall colors train, stomp grapes like you’re in wine country, or even try your luck finding the exit in a hemp maze.
Fall moves fast in Minnesota - don’t let it slip by. Whatever you decide to do, make sure you get outside before the cold takes over.
