Minnesota Fall Bucket List
Alright, folks—fall is here, and you know what that means: crisp air, flannel season, and plenty of reasons to get outside and enjoy all the goodness Minnesota has to offer. Whether you’re looking to chow down on some hearty food, see the best fall colors, or dive into some classic autumn activities, this list has got you covered. So grab your favorite sweatshirt and let’s get after your fall MN bucket list!
Food: Because Fall Means Comfort Eating! 🍁
Apple Orchards & Cideries: What’s fall without apples? Head over to Aamodt’s Apple Farm in Stillwater for some apple-picking, fresh donuts, and a cup (or two) of hot apple cider. Feeling a little adventurous? Try out the hard cider at Minnesota Harvest in Jordan and snag a caramel apple while you’re there.
Pumpkin Spice & Everything Nice: If pumpkin is your thing, you’ve gotta try the pumpkin bread at Rustica Bakery in Minneapolis or the legendary pumpkin cinnamon rolls at Isles Bun & Coffee. Looking for a little something different? Hit up Red Rabbit for their pumpkin ravioli—trust me, it’s a game-changer.
Hearty Comfort Foods: Let’s be honest, when it’s chilly out, nothing beats a big bowl of butternut squash soup from French Meadow Café or some cozy pasta from Bar La Grassa. And if you’re up north, swing by Betty’s Pies in Two Harbors—because no trip is complete without a slice of their famous pie.
Where to See the Fall Trees: Leaf Peeping at Its Finest! 🍂
North Shore Scenic Drive: For peak fall vibes, take the drive up the North Shore from Duluth to Grand Marais. You’ll pass spots like Split Rock Lighthouse and Tettegouche State Park—plenty of places to pull over, snap some photos, and soak it all in.
Itasca State Park: If you haven’t been to Itasca in the fall, you’re missing out. Walk the Wilderness Drive or climb the fire tower for killer views of the reds, yellows, and oranges.
St. Croix River Valley: Check out the leaves along the St. Croix River—maybe hit up Interstate State Park in Taylors Falls or hop on a riverboat cruise from Stillwater for a whole new perspective.
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum: Don’t sleep on the arboretum in Chaska—this place is massive, and in the fall, it’s a total color explosion. Perfect for a weekend stroll or a little photo op.
Fall Activities: Get Out There and Enjoy! 🍎🎃
Pumpkin Patches and Corn Mazes: Grab the family (or your friends) and head to Sever’s Fall Festival in Shakopee or Pinehaven Farm in Wyoming, MN. From corn mazes to hayrides, these spots have all the fall fun you could ask for.
Fall Festivals: Don’t miss the Stillwater Harvest Fest—pumpkin boat races, giant pumpkin weigh-offs, the works. And for some more local fun, check out the Twin Cities Harvest Festival & Maze in Brooklyn Park.
Scenic Hikes and Bike Rides: Stretch your legs with a hike at Minnehaha Falls or grab your bike and ride the Root River State Trail for some epic fall scenery and a little fresh air.
Haunted Adventures: If you’re into spooky stuff, hit up The Haunted Basement in Minneapolis or go ghost hunting on a tour in Duluth. Perfect for getting that adrenaline going!
Hot Air Balloon Ride: For a view like no other, try a hot air balloon ride over the St. Croix Valley or Lake Minnetonka. You’ll see those fall colors from way up high—worth every penny.