Colorful Fall Road Trips in Minnesota that Will Delight Families
Autumn in Minnesota is the perfect time to hit the road with the family! Wondering where to go for fall colors in Minnesota with kids? We have the perfect fall road trip ideas just for you! From the vibrant fall foliage to crisp, cool air, these nine kid-friendly fall destinations in Minnesota offer unforgettable adventures under every golden leaf. Whether exploring scenic routes in northern Minnesota, searching for waterfalls in Silver Bay, or taking a historic stroll in Winona, there’s something for everyone on this list of the best fall road trips in Minnesota for families. Pack up the car, grab your coziest sweaters, and hit the road to experience Minnesota’s fall charm with your kids. These destinations promise colorful sights, outdoor fun, and plenty of memory-making opportunities along the way! Keep reading to discover the best Minnesota fall vacation ideas for families.
Fall Roads Trip in Minnesota Your Family Will Love
Brainerd
A beloved summer getaway, Brainerd bursts into color in fall with vibrant shades of scarlet, gold, and amber. Whether you’re driving, hiking, or biking through this stunning region, the beauty of Minnesota’s autumn will surround you at every turn. Peak colors in the Brainerd Lakes Region usually arrive late September to early October.
Take in the fiery red maples and golden oaks as you explore scenic trails, like those at Crow Wing State Park, or zip through the treetops at Brainerd Zipline Tour. For an epic view above the treetops, climb the Historic Pequot Lakes Fire Tower together. From here, you can look out onto a kaleidoscope of color – it’s certainly worth the climb! Then, the Paul Bunyan Trail also offers the perfect way to experience the season’s magic. Alternatively, head to the nearby Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area to race down thrilling mountain bike trails amidst shimmering autumn colors. Finally, kids will love seeing the animals at Safari North Wildlife Park. They feature everything from giraffes and tigers to wolves (their season ends in early October). As one of the best fall road trips in Minnesota for families, the opportunities for outdoor adventure and leaf peeping are endless.
Duluth
Epic fall destinations in Minnesota don’t get much better than Duluth! Duluth’s crisp fall air, stunning lake views, and brilliant autumn colors make it the perfect spot for a family getaway. Nestled along the shores of Lake Superior, the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows start to pop around mid-September.
Begin your weekend by exploring Canal Park, where the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge and massive ships create endless excitement for kids. This is also one of the best neighborhoods in Duluth to eat and stay in! For a more hands-on experience, visit the Great Lakes Aquarium or the Duluth Children’s Museum. If you’re feeling adventurous, hike at Lester Park or Hawk Ridge to catch the stunning fall foliage and migrating birds. Hartley Nature Center is another great stop in the fall with kids. Round out the weekend with a tour of the historic Glensheen Mansion, framed by golden leaves and Lake Superior’s backdrop. Finally, don’t miss seasonal events like “Boo at the Zoo” at Lake Superior Zoo or the Duluth Oktoberfestival for some festive fall fun. With scenic hikes, family-friendly museums, and lively events, Duluth is undoubtedly one of Minnesota’s most kid-friendly fall road trips.
Grand Marais
Grand Marais is the ultimate fall destination for Minnesota families looking to get cozy and embrace the season’s vibrant colors in every hue and shade. In fact, if you’re wondering where to go for fall colors in Minnesota with kids, this is widely hailed as the best spot in the state. Fall colors in Grand Marais tend to peak between the last weekend of September and the second weekend of October.
Start your adventure by exploring the iconic Grand Marais Harbor, where kids can throw rocks into the lake and stroll along the lighthouse. Hike the Oberg Mountain Trail or visit Cascade River State Park to immerse yourselves in the brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows painting the landscape. For a thrilling family activity, head to Lutsen Mountains for an exhilarating ride on the alpine slide or gondola. Both offer spectacular panoramic fall views. Then, stay up late and watch for the Northern Lights! If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of nature’s dazzling light show, the aurora borealis. And an incredible display of brilliant stars. Finally, remember to stop by Wild Country Maple for some sweet treats and scenic fall views along the drive! Whether hiking, leaf-peeping, or cozying up by a fire, Grand Marais is a perfect fall road trip in Minnesota for families.
Winona
Winona is a must-visit for families looking to soak up late fall’s golden hues in one of the best fall destinations in Minnesota. Nestled along the Mississippi River, this charming river town offers stunning views of the vibrant bluffs, which retain their brilliant colors well into October.
If you’re traveling from the Twin Cities, take the idyllic drive down Highway 61 to catch the final bursts of orange, yellow, and red. Enjoy the breathtaking views as you drive along or stop at scenic lookouts. Once in Winona, take advantage of a hike through Great River Bluffs State Park or a leisurely walk around the riverfront for some of the best fall foliage views. Embark on an epic hike along the short trail to Sugar Loaf. The panoramic view of Winona is worth the trek! The Minnesota Marine Art Museum offers an indoor break with famous works by Picasso and Van Gogh.
Meanwhile, the National Eagle Center in nearby Wabasha is perfect for a close-up look at bald eagles. Wrap up your exploration with a sweet treat from Bloedow’s Bakery. This riverside city is an excellent late fall getaway for those seeking unique Minnesota fall vacation ideas!
Silver Bay
Perched along Minnesota’s North Shore, Silver Bay is a must-visit for families seeking unique fall adventures. Starting in mid-September, the area’s maples burst into a fiery spectacle of reds and oranges, followed by aspen and poplar trees glowing yellow into mid-October. The drive along Hwy 61 alone is striking, but plenty of fun fall things await you when you arrive in Silver Bay!
One of the best fall road trips in Minnesota for families, Silver Bay boasts a wide array of outdoor adventures for all ages. Find the perfect family hike at Tettegouche State Park, which offers scenic trails leading to waterfalls, towering cliffs, and panoramic views of Lake Superior. Take the kids to Palisade Head for breathtaking overlooks. Or, venture to Black Beach, where the unique black pebble beach is perfect for rock skipping and fall picnics with the dramatic shoreline as your backdrop. For those craving more, North Shore Adventure Park offers ziplining and aerial fun for ages 3+. Meanwhile, nearby Silver Bay Golf Course is great for a relaxed afternoon with older kids and teens. Remember to stop by the local shops and grab a bite at one of the cozy eateries, adding a touch of local flavor to your fall getaway!
Ely
Ely, quietly nestled in northern Minnesota, is a tranquil, kid-friendly fall road trip in Minnesota. Ely’s crisp autumn air and vibrant foliage make it ideal for outdoor adventures for the whole family. In addition to a colorful array of autumn activities, this charming town is known as the gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Peak fall foliage is typically from the end of September through early- to mid-October.
Paddle families can explore chilly lakes as trees shimmer in fiery reds and oranges. Or, take a family hike on trails like Trezona or Kawishiwi Falls. Bear Head Lake State Park provides scenic trails that meander through secluded pines and around pristine lakes. For a unique experience, visit the International Wolf Center, where kids can learn about wolves and see them up close. After a day of exploring, cozy up in one of Ely’s cabins, perfect for snuggling by the fire and stargazing under the clear skies. Take advantage of the Harvest Moon Festival in early September, where local crafts, food, and autumn fun fill Whiteside Park with vibrant energy. Ely’s serene lakes, wildlife, and fall festivities make it an unforgettable destination for a family road trip this autumn! Indeed, if you’re wondering where to go for fall colors in Minnesota with kids – put Ely at the top of your list!
Bemidji
This fall, Bemidji invites families to revel in the vibrant hues of the North Woods and explore its charming outdoor wonders. With its mix of outdoor exploration, educational stops, and playful attractions, Bemidji is a fall gem for family fun in Minnesota! Fall colors in Bemidji tend to peak between late September and early October.
As one of the best fall road trips in Minnesota for families, begin your adventure at Lake Bemidji State Park. Here, hike through forests dressed in dazzling golds and oranges. For a grand autumn adventure in the woods, head to Itasca State Park to visit the headwaters of the Mississippi River. Meanwhile, cyclists can peddle along the scenic Paul Bunyan Trail. Families will enjoy the interactive exhibits at the Headwaters Science Center or the Beltrami County Historical Society Museum. Make sure to snap a family photo with the iconic Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox statues. Then, let the kids play at the nearby playground, set along Lake Bemidji. Lastly, take advantage of the Bemidji Sculpture Walk, where a treasure hunt for whimsical sculptures can add a touch of whimsy to your visit.
Otter Tail County
As one of the best fall destinations in Minnesota, Otter Tail County bursts with color and adventures around every corner! Drive along the Otter Trail Scenic Byway to soak in 150 miles of vivid autumn leaves and quaint communities. Then, snap selfies with iconic statues, explore colorful trails, and more. Peak color in Otter Tail County typically occurs between mid-September and early October.
For a classic fall experience, lose yourself in the Find Your Inner Otter corn maze at Otter Berry Farms, north of Rush Lake. Then, hit the trails at Maplewood State Park or Glendalough State Park, where crisp air and brilliant foliage await. Both offer an array of kid-friendly hikes for all experiences and skill levels. Biking enthusiasts can enjoy scenic routes at Glendalough State Park or the Central Lakes Trail, which has exciting new trails in Perham. Or, embark on a serene kayak or canoe trek on the Otter Tail River. After your outdoor adventures, treat yourself to fall flavors like caramel apple kettle corn, apple cider donuts, and pumpkin spice lattes from local favorites like Mother, Goose & Bean’s and Thea’s Pumpkin Patch. With so many fun things to do, Otter Tail County is undoubtedly one of the most unique Minnesota fall vacation ideas for families!
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New Ulm
For a taste of Europe this fall, plan a charming getaway to New Ulm. New Ulm’s cultural charm and family-friendly activities make it a fantastic fall destination for upcoming school breaks like MEA. One of Minnesota’s best fall road trips for families, peak color in New Ulm occurs from late September to mid-October.
Start with a delicious German-inspired pastry from Backerei & Coffee Shop and stroll downtown to marvel at Hermann the German. Catch a show at the 45-foot Glockenspiel. Kids will delight in its whimsical bells and figurines. Then, don’t miss the Wanda Gag House to delve into the life of this notable Minnesota author (open through October). When tummies get hungry, savor German fare at Kaiserhoff or the New Ulm Turner Hall. Or, enjoy a brew at Schell’s Brewery, where the kids can delight in 1919 Root Beer while you sample craft brews. They also offer an annual Oktoberfest celebration! Toddlers and young kids will love German Park and Riverside Park, where their imagination can run wild as they play at the “pirate ship playground“ and meet Gertie the Goose! Finally, in nearby Flandrau State Park, discover plenty of beautiful fall hikes to impress everyone in the family.
We hope you found a new Fall Road Trip in Minnesota to explore!
Happy Trails this Fall with Your Kids!
As the vibrant hues of fall blanket Minnesota, these destinations offer unforgettable road trips for families. From the autumn splendor of Winona’s bluffs to the serene lakes of Ely, each spot provides a unique backdrop for creating cherished memories. Use this guide to discover where to go for fall colors in Minnesota with kids and find the ideal Minnesota fall vacation ideas for families that blend natural beauty with exciting activities. Each one is perfect for upcoming school breaks like MEA! Embrace the season, hit the road, and make the most of fall’s fleeting magic 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.
