8 Fun Fall Family Trips Just a Hop, Skip, and a Jump Away (All Direct Flights from MSP)
Fall is the perfect time to pack up the family and explore new destinations, and we’ve rounded up eight fantastic trips that are just a direct flight away from MSP! Whether you’re craving a weekend filled with outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a change of scenery, these destinations offer something for everyone. Picture your kids marveling at the autumn leaves in a cozy mountain town, enjoying hands-on exhibits at a world-class museum, or strolling down the street under twinkling city lights. With these quick and easy getaways, you can swap out the usual routine for unforgettable memories without the hassle of long layovers or tedious drives. Grab your bags, and let’s make the most of this fall season by taking one of the best flights from MSP for families!
Keep reading to learn about our favorite MSP direct flights for fall getaways with kids.
Boise, ID
Boise, Idaho, is the ultimate fall getaway for Minnesota families craving outdoor adventure and urban charm. Tucked into the Boise Foothills, this hidden gem offers everything from hiking trails and river surfing to kid-friendly museums with tons of interactive exhibits.
If you’re searching for direct flights from MSP for a quick fall trip with kids, the flight duration between MSP and BOI is just under 3 hours.
Boise’s walkable downtown makes exploring a breeze, with must-visit spots like Zoo Boise, the Discovery Center of Idaho, and the vibrant Freak Alley Gallery steps away. Stroll through the downtown pedestrian-only area lined with shops and restaurants.
As the fall leaves turn to vibrant hues and the air crisps up, Boise’s orchards, pumpkin patches, and fall festivals come alive. Head over to the beautiful Hyde Park Neighborhood. Here, you can play at a massive playground or hike up a quick trail for epic views at Camel’s Back Park.
Then, take advantage of the autumn views by hiking to Table Rock, with a trailhead near the Old Idaho Penitentiary and the Idaho Botanical Garden.
Afterward, sip on hot cider as you explore Harvest Days at the Idaho Botanical Garden. Boise is undoubtedly one of the best fall flights from MSP for families.
Minot, ND
Looking for a fall gem that’s just a quick 1 hour and 35-minute flight from MSP? Minot, North Dakota, is calling! This charming city, known for its rich aviation history and Scandinavian heritage, offers various activities for all ages. As the fall foliage transforms the landscape, Minot’s rural surroundings come alive with picturesque barns, river walks, pumpkin patches, and scenic fields. Plus, downtown Minot is charming in the fall, lined with decorated storefronts and family-friendly restaurants. They even have a fantastic independent bookshop with a huge kid’s section.
A visit to Berry Acres Pumpkin Patch is a must for families during the fall. Here, you can snap those perfect fall photos, wander through a field of pumpkins, and enjoy activities like a petting zoo. Then, explore Minot’s unique attractions, from the Dakota Territory Air Museum to the Scandinavian Heritage Park. This park features a large green space with unique structures, including a huge dala horse and a replica of Stave Church.
Wrap up the weekend with a visit to the Roosevelt Park Zoo along the Souris River. Kids can come face to face with creatures worldwide, including bison, zebras, and kangaroos. With so many options for a perfect fall weekend, Minot is unsurprisingly one of the best direct flights from MSP for fall getaways for families.
Fall Family Trips to Kansas City, MO
Kansas City, Missouri, is the perfect fall destination with kids. In fact, as one of the best flights from MSP for families, it’s a short 1 hour and 30-minute flight. The city transforms into a vibrant tapestry of burnt oranges, toasty reds, and golden yellows as autumn sets in. Kansas City’s famous barbecue, combined with plenty of engaging museums and activities for all ages, makes it a desired destination for many Minnesota families.
Pumpkin patches like KC Pumpkin Patch and Faulkner’s Ranch offer plenty of family fun. Meanwhile, nearby towns like Weston host delightful fall festivals like Weston Applefest. Then, discover hands-on fun at museums like Science City and The Regnier Family Wonderscope Children’s Museum of Kansas City. Animal encounters abound at the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. Animals include everything from elephants and rhinos to orangutans. Time it right, and you can even go trick-or-treating at Boo at the Zoo. Finally, Kansas City boasts unique sporting attractions like the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum and The College Basketball Experience.
Catching a seasonal ball game while you’re in town is a must for sports fans! Whether enjoying the seasonal sights or hitting the city’s classic stops, Kansas City delivers big-city excitement with a cozy fall twist!
Related Topic: Guide to Fall Fun in Minnesota
Denver, CO
Just a two-hour flight from MSP, Denver, Colorado, is a fall paradise for families seeking a mountain escape. As the Aspens turn from green to gold, the Peak to Peak Highway and Guanella Pass Scenic Byway become must-drive routes for stunning leaf-peeping.
The hues and views of Colorado will please even the pickiest of young travelers. Denver’s rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking Rocky Mountain backdrop make it an ideal spot for a fall family getaway from Minnesota.
Explore the Denver Zoo, where over 3,000 animals await, including elephants, giraffes, and penguins. For more amazing creatures and critters, head to the Downtown Aquarium. Or, dive into hands-on exhibits at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science and Children’s Museum of Denver. To see the spooky side of Denver in the fall, try a 90-minute tour open to all ages with Ghosts of Denver Tour. You will see famous haunted places on Capital Hill and hear gruesome stories of the city’s haunted history.
Finally, there are plenty of places to explore the great outdoors, too! From hiking to biking, you’ll find every type of adventure at your fingertips. No wonder Denver is one of the best direct flights from MSP for fall getaways with kids!
Chicago, IL
While many people choose to drive, Chicago is just a quick 1 hour and 35-minute flight from MSP, making it an ideal fall weekend getaway from the Twin Cities. As the leaves turn golden in Millennium Park and a cool breeze fills the air, the city buzzes with fall activities. As one of the best direct flights from MSP for a quick fall trip with kids, there are plenty of autumn adventures for all ages.
For festive fall fun, don’t miss family-friendly experiences like Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-up or Lincoln Park’s Fall Fest. Then, wander through Lincoln Park to take in the vibrant colors around North Pond. Or, explore the Japanese garden in Jackson Park.
For a unique experience, explore Chicago on the water! Chicago’s boat tours continue through autumn, including the Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise (weather permitting). During the journey, expert guides share captivating stories of over 50 buildings along the waterfront. If the weather turns, there are plenty of fun indoor things to do with kids in Chicago, too! Learn something new at the Field Museum or admire paintings at The Art Institute of Chicago. The Shedd Aquarium is a magical experience for kids and adults alike.
Finally, head to Gino’s East or Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria to taste Chicago’s famous deep-dish pizza. With stunning fall foliage and endless urban adventures, Chicago truly shines this time of year! From iconic eats and fall flavors to endless activities, Chicago is undoubtedly one of the best direct flights from MSP for families with kids this fall.
Related Topic: Guide to Fall Fun in Minnesota
Fall Family Trips to Burlington, VT
Experience the charm of Burlington, Vermont, this fall, where dazzling colors create the perfect backdrop for family fun. As the Champlain Valley trees turn fiery shades of red, orange, and yellow, Burlington comes alive with seasonal festivities.
In fact, there are harvest festivals across the region throughout September and October. This includes the beloved Oktoberfest Vermont at Waterfront Park, where you can savor craft beers and seasonal snacks.
Take the family on scenic hikes this fall along the Ethan Allen Homestead Trail or the Red Rocks Park Trail. Both offer brilliant autumn foliage and breathtaking views. For more fall-forward adventures, visit local farms like Sam Mazza’s (they have hayrides and a 3-mile corn maze!). For a dose of history and culture, don’t miss ECHO at Leahy Center. Here, you’ll discover captivating exhibits on the Lake Champlain basin.
Then, the Shelburne Museum is another must-visit for families, boasting a real steamship and a historic circus carousel. Finally, Burlington also offers some of the most exciting tours for families, like the Vermont Teddy Bear and Burton Snowboard factories.
And, of course, who can resist visiting Ben & Jerry’s on Church Street? Burlington’s fall season is packed with activities that promise lasting memories, making it one of our favorite direct flights from MSP for fall weekend getaways with kids.
St. Louis, MO
Fall in Saint Louis is a vibrant tapestry of golds, reds, and oranges, perfect for an exciting family getaway. The flight duration is only 90 minutes, making it one of the best direct flights from MSP for families.
Known as the “Gateway to the West,” St. Louis offers a mix of urban adventure and outdoor fun for all ages. Start your visit with a trip to the iconic Gateway Arch and explore the stunning riverfront views adorned with fall foliage.
Embark on a scenic boat tour with Gateway Arch Riverboats for unforgettable river views. It’s a great way to see St. Louis from a new perspective. Families will also love the Saint Louis Zoo, home to over 16,000 animals, including black rhinoceros, gorillas, and king cobras.
Continue your animal adventures at the St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station, a new addition to the city. Then, little ones will delight in The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum. Alternatively, older kids and teens will enjoy the interactive exhibits at the Saint Louis Science Center or the National Blues Museum. Visit Laumeier Sculpture Park or the Missouri Botanical Garden for outdoor fun in the sun.
With so much to see and do, Saint Louis is a fantastic fall destination for families with kids of all ages!
Pittsburgh, PA
Offering one of the best direct flights from MSP for a quick fall trip with kids, Pittsburgh is a vibrant and thrilling experience for all ages. As summer fades into fall, the city’s rolling hills burst into a kaleidoscope of autumn colors. Take advantage of pumpkin patches and enjoy local festivals during your fall visit.
There are plenty of unique, family-friendly adventures to mark the season. If traveling with tweens and teens, embrace spooky thrills at the ScareHouse, Zombies of the Corn, and Hundred Acres Manor.
For a tamer experience with littles, head to ZooBoo at the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium. The ZooZoo features over 8,000 animals, including cheetahs, giraffes, and polar bears. Then, capture stunning city views from the Duquesne Incline or bike along the Great Allegheny Passage’s 24+ miles of riverfront trails.
Walking tours like ‘The Burgh Bits & Bites Food Tour will reveal Pittsburgh’s unique charm and culinary delights, dazzling foodies of all ages. Family attractions continue beyond there. Pittsburgh has a dedicated KidsBURGH neighborhood featuring several kid-friendly activities, including the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Moonshot Museum, and the Carnegie Science Center.
Finally, leave time to explore world-class gardens together at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.
Related Topic: Guide to Fall Fun in Minnesota
Have Fun Exploring these Fall Family Trips with Your Kids!
No matter your family’s travel style, finding the best flights from MSP for a fall getaway has never been easier. With a range of direct flights from MSP to vibrant cities like Chicago, Denver, and St. Louis, your family fall getaways are just a short flight away.
Whether you’re exploring pumpkin patches, scenic trails, or city festivals, these destinations offer something for every family. Book your next fall trip with convenient MSP direct flights and make this season unforgettable.
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.
