Your Guide to the Best Fall Day Trips near the Twin Cities

7 Exciting Day Trips to Take this Fall near the Twin Cities, Minnesota

Looking for the perfect fall break adventure during MEA – without embarking on a full-scale vacation with kids? We’ve got you covered with this guide to 7 exciting day trips to take in Minnesota this fall during MEA!

Whether you’re dreaming of a day filled with vibrant fall colors or exploring charming small towns, these seven day trips boast some of the best fall things to do near the Twin Cities. Imagine hiking through the scenic trails of Taylors Falls or strolling the historic streets of Northfield, all while enjoying crisp autumn air and the sound of happy kids.

Each destination offers unique experiences that will make MEA unforgettable for everyone in your family. Grab your sweaters, pack some snacks, and get ready for a day full of fun! Please keep reading to learn more about our top picks for the best fall day trips with kids from Minneapolis and Saint Paul.

Taylors Falls

Just under an hour from Minneapolis, Taylors Falls is a fantastic day trip destination for families this fall! Nestled along the St. Croix River, this charming town offers a mix of kid-friendly eateries, outdoor adventures, and more. Plus, you’ll be treated to epic fall foliage along the river.

If you want to include fall-themed fun during the day, stop at Pleasant Valley Orchard or Slattengren Farms on the way to Taylors Falls. Pleasant Valley Orchard will offer live music on Friday and Saturday afternoons during MEA.

Start your day at Interstate State Park, where kids can marvel at towering rock formations and explore glacial potholes. Afterward, hop on a Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tour to learn about the area’s unique history and stunning landscape. They offer eight excursions departing from Interstate State Park during MEA. Thrill-seekers can soar down alpine slides and race around go-kart tracks at Wild Mountain.

Alternatively, let imaginations soar at Franconia Sculpture Park (just minutes from downtown Taylors Falls). Finally, Schoony’s Malt Shop and Pizzeria is a must-visit with kids when hunger strikes! Indeed, there are plenty of fun things to do near the Twin Cities on a day trip to Taylors Falls!

Stillwater

Stillwater, the Birthplace of Minnesota, is a fantastic fall day trip for families looking to mix history with fun! Just 30 minutes from Minneapolis, this charming riverside town is packed with activities everyone will love.

As one of the best day trips near the Twin Cities for families during MEA, Stillwater offers many events over the weekend. This includes rides on the Stillwater Haunted History Trolley Tour and the Fall Craft Show at Stillwater High School.

Your day begins with a stroll across Minnesota and Wisconsin’s scenic pedestrian bridge. This bridge offers breathtaking views of the St. Croix River and the surrounding fall colors. Then, treat kids to a unique experience by exploring Stillwater aboard a Stillwater Trolley Co tour. Afterward, head to Tremblay’s Sweet Shop for some yummy sweets (eat them before lunch – we won’t tell!). Lunch with kids is best enjoyed at Leo’s Grill & Malt Shop. Head to Aamodt’s Apple Farm in the afternoon for some fall fun on the farm. You can pick your own apples, munch on seasonal treats, and meet the resident goats here.

Whether you’re into exploring or just relaxing by the river, Stillwater offers something special for everyone! With so many options, it is no wonder this is a top pick for fun Minnesota day trips this fall.

Northfield

Only 45 minutes south of Minneapolis, Northfield is a perfect fall day trip combining small-town charm and vibrant college-town energy. Nestled along the Cannon River, this quaint town is bursting with fun activities for the whole family. It is one of our favorite fall day trips from Minneapolis with kids.

Grab a warm coffee from Little Joy Coffee before strolling through the scenic downtown area adorned with fall foliage. Browse unique shops on Division Street, including Content Books and The Measuring Cup. Or, enjoy crisp autumn air as you peddle along bike paths flanked by stunning fall foliage. There are plenty of trails to choose from, including Sakatah Singing Hills Trail. Families who adore waterfalls can also embark on a beautiful autumn hike at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park. Alternatively, visit Bridgewater Farm for pumpkin picking and a corn maze.

Kids will love the fall activities, including trike races, hay rides, and a corn box. Next, stop at Fireside Orchard for delicious apples and fall treats! Let kids pick their own for a fun fall experience. Talk about an incredible autumn adventure!

Hastings

Fall in love with Hastings, a hidden gem just 30 minutes southeast of the Twin Cities! Nestled along the Mississippi River, this charming town offers history, nature, and seasonal fun for all ages. Check the city’s website for updates if you are looking for fun events during MEA.

Begin your day with a hike at Vermillion Falls Park, where you can explore scenic trails and discover the picturesque Vermillion Gorge Bridge. More hiking and outdoor adventures can be found at Carpenter Nature Center. They even have their own apple orchard on-site! Afterward, stroll through the historic downtown area, filled with cozy coffee shops and unique boutiques. Stop by Alexis Bailly Winery, the oldest winery in the state. Or, grab a tasty milkshake from the Hastings Dairy Store (founded in 1913!). In the afternoon, autumn adventures abound at Afton Apple Orchard. Families can traverse the 15-acre corn maze, enjoy a hayride, play at the playground, pick apples, and much more. Make sure you try the apple cider donuts!

Hastings is Minnesota’s ideal fall day trip for families looking to embrace the season.

Mankato

Mankato is the ultimate fall destination for families seeking vibrant colors and endless fun! Nestled in the beautiful Minnesota River Valley, this lively town offers engaging activities for all ages. Plus, it’s less than 90 minutes from Minneapolis. Mankato is hosting several fall events, including the Mankato Marathon during MEA.

Mankato also boasts two wonderful autumn stops for pumpkins and apples. The Little Green Wagon Pumpkin Patch and Farm is a charming farm with the cutest pumpkins around. And Welsh Heritage Farms is an excellent stop for fresh apples and scratch-made pies.

If you’re skipping the farms, Minneopa State Park is the perfect place to start your day! Here, hike scenic trails, marvel at the stunning double waterfall, and spot bison roaming the 325-acre range. Plus, the fall foliage will delight everyone in the family. Sibley Park offers playgrounds, a petting zoo, and trails along the river for more outdoor fun. Suppose the weather is too cool to explore outside. In that case, the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota will surely be a hit with young explorers. Meanwhile, Wow! Zone Family Entertainment Center offers bowling, mini-golf, and more – perfect for older kids and teens.

With so many fun things to do, it’s easy to see why families choose Mankato as one of the best fall day trips from Minneapolis with kids!

Red Wing

For a picturesque fall day trip near the Twin Cities, Red Wing is a top choice for families. Nestled along the Mississippi River, this charming city offers the perfect backdrop for autumn adventures with kids. During MEA, Red Wing hosts fun events like the Bluff Color Fest Trail Run/Hike and an informative Bird Walk at Frontenac State Park.

Whether hiking, biking or simply soaking in the views, Red Wing is an autumn gem just an hour from the Twin Cities!

Hike up Barn Bluff, where stunning autumn views of the river and vibrant fall colors await. Alternatively, thrilling views, top-notch bird-watching, and seasonal fall colors can be found in spades at Frontenac State Park. For a more leisurely outing, stroll through Bay Point Park and enjoy the peaceful riverfront together. You may even see a boat or two bouncing in the waves! If kids need to play and burn some energy, Colvill Park is an outstanding option with littles! Then, the Cannon Valley Trail offers a scenic bike ride from Red Wing to nearby Cannon Falls. Finally, head to places like Driftless Orchard in nearby Hager for fall-forward activities. This local apple orchard is ideal for picking fresh apples, squash, and pumpkins.

Osceola, WI

Nestled along the St. Croix River, Osceola, Wisconsin, is a must-visit fall day trip from the Twin Cities with kids. Under an hour from Minneapolis, the town’s historic downtown is only enhanced by the kaleidoscope of color held in the trees dotting the area. You can even explore scenic walking paths from downtown to the breathtaking Cascade Falls.

Review their events calendar for fun activities happening during MEA.

For a truly unique experience, hop aboard the Osceola and St. Croix Railway for a vintage train ride through the vibrant autumn colors of the St. Croix River Valley. The railway offers several excursions for all ages throughout MEA, including the Pumpkin Express. Meanwhile, Trollhaugen Zipline is the ultimate adrenaline experience for older kids and teens. It features six ziplines and a giant floating playground amongst the vibrant treetops. Families will enjoy the three trails off Cascade Street. The Falls Bluff Loop connects all three trails and can be completed in about 45 minutes.

Whether hiking, playing in the treetops, or savoring seasonal treats, Osceola is unsurprisingly one of the best fall day trips from Minneapolis with kids.

Have Fun Exploring Minnesota with Your Kids this Fall!

We hope this list of the best fall day trips from Minneapolis and Saint Paul with kids helps you discover a fun MEA adventure or two. Whether you want to pick apples, trek along colorful trails, or get out of the house, there are so many fun Minnesota day trips perfect for this fall. This guide has everything you need to know to start planning and exploring many fun things to do near the Twin Cities while your kids enjoy their fall break. Enjoy MEA with your kids!

Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam and on her website. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.