Fall in the Twin Cities: A Local Guide to the Best of the Season by a Twin Cities Realtor

Oh my gourd, it’s officially fall. Ok - that was bad, but if that didn’t make you smile, I get it. Pumpkin spice lattes and turtle necks might not be your thing, but no one can deny the beautiful fall colors in Minnesota. 

If you’re new here (or just want to shake up your fall routine), here are a few of my seasonal spots.

Photo from Twin Cities Agenda

Best Fall Festivals & Markets

Sever’s Fall Festival (Shakopee): A corn maze, pumpkin patches, and live entertainment that kids (and adults) will love.

Mill City Farmers Market: Stock up on fresh seasonal produce like butternut squash, cider, and baked goods.

Scenic Spots for Fall Walks & Leaf Peeping

West River Parkway Trails:  Some are easily marked, others are more of an adventure. These trails are rustic, along the river, and have fantastic views only people that live in the neighborhood see. 

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum: Worth the short drive. The fall colors here feel like stepping into a postcard.

Orchards:

Minnetonka Orchards (Mound): Just west of town, this orchard has apple picking, hayrides, and hot apple cider doughnuts.

Aamodt’s Apple Farm (Stillwater): A picturesque orchard on the St. Croix, with crisp apples, honeycrisp cider, and goat visits for the kids.

Photo from Twin Cities Agenda

Glowing Pumpkins and Halloween Fun:

Pumpkin Nights (Minnesota State Fairgrounds): Thousands of glowing pumpkins set up in themed displays.

Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular (Minnesota Zoo): Thousands of hand-carved pumpkins light up a quarter-mile trail. It’s magical, a little spooky, and unforgettable for kids + adults.

Fall in Minnesota is glorious, but it’s short. In just a few weeks, we’ll be trading cider for shovels. If you’re thinking about buying or selling before winter, now’s the time to make a move because no one wants to haul moving boxes in the snow.