Twin City Fall Festivals and Fun
September, October, & November in the Minneapolis-St Paul Metro Area
Autumn in the Twin Cities is short, but it's the favorite time of year of many Minnesota natives. Everyone knows that the Minnesota winter is coming soon (probably before the end of fall, actually, as it usually begins to snow in November). Since the state is so wooded, fall foliage is Minnesota is something special, and it highlights the lakes and the natural beauty of the region. So get yourself a nice warm sweater--yes, falls can be pretty chilly--and check out all the fun September, October, and Novemeber activities in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area.
Apple Picking. This family-friendly activity is a big hit during the fall months. Apple orchards compete for business with petting zoos, hay rides, baked goods, and all kinds of activities. There are dozens of apple orchards in the area, most of them in the outer suburbs or just outside the metro area. Here's some information about how to find great Twin Cities apple picking.
Halloween. From kid-friendly pumpkin patches to terrifying haunted houses, Halloween attractions are easy to find in the area. You can even stop by the Halloween Festival in Anoka, the self-proclaimed "Halloween capital of the world." Here's information about where to find Halloween activities in the Twin Cities.
Fall Foliage. One of the best ways to enjoy fall is simply to take a walk in a wooded area, or to drive down Mississippi River Boulevard or any other scenic byway in the area. In the Twin Cities, fall foliage is at its peak around late September through mid-October, so take advantage of this short but festive time! Some great places to view fall foliage include Minnehaha Falls, the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes, Lake Minnetonka, and the St. Croix valley around Stillwater.
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. (3675 Arboretum Drive, Chaska). This University of Minnesota arboretum features over 1000 acres of natural areas, and it's especially spectacular in the fall. Their calendar includes all sorts of fall activities, including special "fall forays" tours. For more information, call 952-443-1400.
Twin Cities Marathon. The 2007 Marathon will be held on October 7. It begins at the Metrodome in Minneapolis and ends at the State Capitol Grounds in downtown St. Paul, where spectators can participate in a three-day festival that includes a 5K fun walk/run, a pasta party, a health and fitness expo, and a toddler trot. For more information, call 763-287-3888.
See also:
Minnesota Winter Fun & Festivals
Things to Do in the Twin Cities
