This post, featuring the best things to do in Grand Marais with kids this fall, may contain affiliate links. For more, please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy.
Fall in Grand Marais is genuinely magical for families! In fact, I think it’s my favorite time to be on the North Shore (I know I say that every season, but this time I mean it!). With its crisp autumn air, vibrant foliage, and unparalleled views of Lake Superior, this charming North Shore town offers endless adventures for families in the fall. The season is short, however. Peak fall in Grand Marais is usually the last weekend in September or the first week in October. Then, fall’s “second season” fades into stick season from mid-October to November.
As a wannabe local (my in-laws live there) and longtime visitor, I’ve found that autumn in Grand Marais is simply the best. As such, I’m on a mission to inspire families to explore its enchanting trails, scenic drives, and beautiful shores. I’ve put this guide together to help you and your family explore the best things to do in Grand Marais this fall. Imagine exploring colorful trails, munching on seasonal treats, and enjoying cozy campfires with your kids.
This guide covers everything from hiking and skipping rocks into the lake to soaring above the vivid treetops! I’ve also included several recommendations for hotels and restaurants for families in Grand Marais. Ready for an unforgettable family getaway to the North Shore this fall? Keep reading to discover my top picks for the best things to do with kids in Grand Marais!
Tips + Packing Reminders for a Fall Trip to Grand Marais
If you’re planning a family trip to Grand Marais this fall, here are a few tips and packing reminders to keep in mind:
- Pack lots of layers; the weather can vary greatly inland and by the lake, as well as day-to-day (sweatshirts are the top-selling souvenirs in the summer!).
- Lake Superior is chilly all year round; consider rain boots for kids who want to play or dip their toes in the water!
- Many fall things to do in Grand Marais offer seasonal hours that may differ from the high-tourist season in the summer. Some may have days when they are closed, and some may fully close for the season after MEA (the third weekend in October). Review hours for each location and restaurant before building your itinerary to ensure availability for your dates.
Packing List for Grand Marais with Kids
For more planning support, check out this packing list for Grand Marais.
READ NEXT: 9 Colorful Fall Getaways from Minneapolis with Kids
Embark on a Scenic Fall Drive to See the Best Fall Colors on the North Shore
One of the most beloved autumn activities in Grand Marais is embarking on a colorful fall drive. The North Shore offers a variety of scenic routes for families, from the breathtaking North Shore Scenic Drive to the end of the Gunflint Trail, and even the many remote backroads that wind along the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Families looking for easy ways to see fall colors and fun things to do near Grand Marais with kids will delight in hopping in the car with cozy sweaters and hot cocoa in search of golden, auburn, and other fiery hues.
Here are 3 kid-friendly scenic routes to consider near Grand Marais this fall:
- Scenic Highway 61 from Duluth to Grand Marais (and beyond) – this is an easy one because it’s your route to reach Grand Marais!
- Grand Marais to the end of the Gunflint Trail (more on this later) – this is your best chance to see bright yellow tamaracks/larches
- Honeymoon Loop from Tofte to Lutsen – start at the Sawbill Trail in Tofte, then take Forest Road 164 (Honeymoon Trail), and end with Caribou Trail back to Lutsen – this is your best option if you want to stop at Wild Country Maple Syrup
Read more about these routes and other ideas for vibrant scenic drives on the North Shore.
Take a Fall Hike Near Grand Marais
Hiking is a top fall activity for families in Grand Marais! With trails offering stunning Lake Superior views, a kaleidoscope of colors amongst the trees, and beautiful waterfalls, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures waiting for you and your kids. Whether you’re up for a short stroll or a full day of exploration, these trails promise endless outdoor fun and excitement. Not to mention, some of the best sights and things to do in Grand Marais!
REMINDER: Wear orange while hiking during hunting season!
Best Hikes for Fall Colors near Grand Marais with Kids
Here are a few excellent fall hiking trails near Grand Marais for families (the first three are my personal favorites):
- Oberg Mountain Trail (moderate, 2.3-mile loop trail)
- Magnetic Rock Trail (easy, 4.3-mile out-and-back trail)
- High Falls Trail (easy, 1.1 miles out and back) at Grand Portage State Park, featuring the tallest waterfall in Minnesota
- Leveaux Mountain Trail (moderate, 3.2-mile loop trail)
- Cascade River State Park for an easy loop waterfall hike (or just a quick peek; the waterfall is only 5 minutes from the trailhead)
- Judge C.R. Magney State Park (moderate trail, 2 miles out and back trail with 200 stairs) – this is where Devil’s Kettle is
- Temperance River State Park offers several family-friendly fall hikes
Explore the Heritage Center at Grand Portage National Monument
In addition to the list above, Mount Rose (a 1.2-mile loop trail) is a perfect addition to your fall itinerary. Located at Grand Portage National Monument, this kid-friendly trail offers stunning autumn views of Lake Superior. You can even see Mount Josephine and Isle Royale on a clear day!
There are two trailheads (one opposite the parking lot and one a short walk down from the Heritage Center). I recommend taking the trailhead past the Heritage Center for a shorter, more scenic hike. Just be prepared for some steep sections and rustic stairs.
After your hike, warm up indoors at the Grand Portage National Monument Heritage Center. Explore interactive exhibits on Anishinaabe history and the fur trade, and let the kids earn their Junior Ranger badges. It’s a great place to combine outdoor adventure with cultural learning on your North Shore fall trip, making it one of the best fall things to do with kids in Grand Marais.
Try the Maple Caramels at Wild Country Maple Syrup
When exploring the North Shore with kids this fall, don’t miss a stop at Wild Country Maple Syrup. This hidden gem is located just 9 miles off Highway 61 via Caribou Trail, Honeymoon Trail, and Barker Lake Road (follow the signs).
The scenic drive to this charming maple syrup farm is an experience in itself, offering stunning views of fall foliage. Once there, you can shop the sugar shack, where you’ll find an array of local products, including their famous maple caramels, maple syrup, wild rice, and honey. Trust me—these maple caramels are some of the best you’ll ever taste! On our first stop, we got halfway down the driveway before turning around to purchase additional caramels. Now, we always stop here on the way to Grand Marais in the fall.
The shop operates on an honor system, so you can enjoy a relaxed, self-guided shopping experience. They take checks, cash, and Venmo. If you’re lucky, owners Michael and Carrie will be around to answer questions and show off their syrup-making process. They are a hoot to talk to!
Alpine Slide at Lutsen Mountains
For thrilling fall fun near Grand Marais, don’t miss the alpine slide at Lutsen Mountains. As one of the best fall activities on the North Shore, this exhilarating ride twists and turns down the mountain, offering excitement for both kids and adults! Children must be 6+ and over 48″ to ride alone (children ages 2 – 5 can ride free with a paying adult).
The adventure starts with a scenic ski lift ride to the top, from which you can admire vivid fall colors for miles. From the top, grab your sled and take in more stunning views as you make your way to the beginning of the twin alpine slides. The tracks are parallel, so families can race side by side down the snaking course!
You can control your speed with the sled’s brakes, making it as fast or leisurely as you like. While a single ride is fun, I recommend going for the unlimited day pass—trust me, your kids will want to ride more than once!
After the slides, explore the on-mountain restaurants, take a scenic gondola ride, or hike the trails for more breathtaking views. Plan for a full day here; Lutsen Mountains offers a fantastic array of fall activities for the whole family!
* You can get combination tickets for the alpine slide and Summe Express Gondola.
READ NEXT: The Ultimate Fall Bucket List: 21+ Best Things to Do in Minnesota with Kids this Season
Ride the Summit Express Gondola at Lutsen Mountains
Ride the Summit Express Gondola at Lutsen Mountains for a truly unforgettable fall experience with kids of all ages on the North Shore. This aerial gondola takes you on a scenic journey to the top of Moose Mountain (rising 1,000 feet above Lake Superior).
From the top, you’ll have the perfect vantage point to soak in the breathtaking views of the Sawtooth Mountains and Lake Superior’s dramatic coastline. Not to mention, miles and miles of vibrant fall foliage in every hue and shade! As you glide upward, keep an eye out for eagles, pine marten, bears, and even moose. They all roam the area!
As one of the best fall things to do near Grand Marais with kids, once you reach the top, you can also explore hiking trails and lookout points, or relax at the Summit Chalet. Here, you can grab lunch or a snack while enjoying panoramic views.
* You can get combination tickets for the alpine slide and Summe Express Gondola.
Journey Along the Gunflint Trail
One of the best ways to experience fall on the North Shore is by taking a scenic drive along the Gunflint Trail. This picturesque route begins northwest of downtown Grand Marais and winds through 57 miles of colorful autumn landscapes to Saganaga Lake, which borders Canada. It’s also the best place to spot moose!
The Gunflint Trail offers a variety of fun fall activities near Grand Marais, like hiking and paddling. As you drive along, discover untouched wilderness and spot wildlife like moose, deer, and gray foxes. As the fall foliage transforms the area into a vibrant tapestry of colors, it’s a secluded part of the North Shore that’s sure to impress everyone.
If you’re planning a fall trip to Grand Marais, here are some top activities to enjoy along the Gunflint Trail with kids:
- Towering Pines Canopy Tour at Gunflint Lodge
- Renting a canoe from Rockwood Lodge and Outfitters to explore Poplar Lake
- Exploring trails and waterways in the Boundary Waters (there are several entry points along the Gunflint Trail for day treks)
- Top fall hikes on the Gunflint Trail: Honeymoon Bluff, Moose Viewing Trail, and South Lake Trail. For South Lake Trail, you can park at Rockwood Lodge and Outfitters.
- The best places to eat on the Gunflint Trail are Poplar Haus Restaurant, Trail Center at Poplar Lake, Justine’s at Gunflint Lodge, and Hungry Jack.
The businesses along the Gunflint Trail are the most likely to have early-season closures. Check the websites for seasonal hours before leaving Grand Marais. Cell service is spotty and unreliable up the Gunflint Trail. Let someone know your plan before you set out for the day.
Sugarloaf Cove Nature Center
In Shroeder, Sugarloaf Cove Nature Center is one of the best fall activities on the North Shore for short, impactful hikes and nature-inspired learning. This charming nature center offers interactive exhibits, knowledgeable naturalists, and a kid-friendly hiking trail.
Begin your visit inside, where kids can explore several displays about local wildlife and plant life. They’ll love getting hands-on with bones and pelts, which makes learning about nature even more exciting!
Outside, enjoy the bird feeders that attract several local species. Grab a bench to watch the birds or use the identification books to learn their names. After bird-watching, take a stroll along the 1.3-mile loop trail. This path meanders through colorful fall foliage and leads to the shores of Lake Superior, where kids can skip stones into the waves or climb on large nearby rocks.
The trail is especially scenic in fall, and the nature center often hosts fun events—check the calendar before you go. A small cash parking fee of $5 is required.
Traverse the Tree Tops at North Shore Adventure Park
Got a daredevil in the family? North Shore Adventure Park is a must-visit on your fall trip. Located about an hour south of Grand Marais in Silver Bay, this exciting park offers zip-lines and ropes courses set among the colorful treetops of the North Shore. If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure (that isn’t hiking), it is undoubtedly one of the best things to do with kids near Grand Marais this fall!
Race across the zip-lines and navigate the ropes courses, which come in five difficulty levels to suit all skill levels. There’s even a dedicated park for little ones aged 3-6. Several treetop courses and zip-lines await older kids and adults, including one with twin lines for racing against each other! Plus, visitors aged 12 and up can also try their hand at axe-throwing (for an additional fee).
When you need a break, picnic tables are scattered throughout the park, and a small concession area offers Gatorade and snacks to keep everyone fueled. Families searching for kid-approved fall activities near Grand Marais will love adding this to their itinerary!
Relax at Sisu and Löyly
For a relaxing experience in Grand Marais this fall, book a session at Sisu and Löyly. This Nordic sauna by Lake Superior is a fantastic addition to your autumn itinerary. Plus, the saunas offer great views of Artists’ Point!
When you arrive, slip into the provided robes and slippers and head to your sauna. You can adjust your own steam level by adding water as desired, which is excellent for those who find saunas a bit challenging to breathe in—like me! Sisu and Löyly is the most soothing and enjoyable sauna experience I’ve ever had.
Take a break in the cozy outdoor bonfire area or the indoor lounge. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take a polar plunge into Lake Superior (check with the front desk for safety guidelines and entry points). Sauna use is available for kids aged 10 and older. Undoubtedly, Sisu and Löyly is a perfect spot for relaxation and self-care in Grand Marais!
Tee Off at Putt n Pets Mini Golf
We love mini-golfing during family trips! If you do, too, Putt n Pets Mini Golf is a delightful 18-hole course that’s perfect for a fall day in Grand Marais. It’s conveniently located at the edge of town and is usually open through October.
Grab your putter and ball and get ready to tee off. As you navigate the course, watch for the charming resident animals scattered throughout the greens—including goats, turkeys, peacocks, and more. Kids will have a blast challenging parents to a round of mini-golf while spotting these furry and feathered friends. Each hole is uniquely designed and inspired by the North Shore. If you’re looking for low-key fall things to do with kids in Grand Marais, add mini golf to your itinerary!
Grab a Bite to Eat + Play Games at Voyageur Brewing Company
Tummies are bound to get hungry while exploring the many fun fall things to do with kids in Grand Marais! Enter one of my favorite low-key, foodie activities in Grand Marais with kids! Playing games and enjoying a meal at Voyageur Brewing Company is a wonderful way to enjoy a lazy afternoon. This cozy spot, located downtown, is perfect for unwinding after a day of autumn adventures. While they sometimes provide games, we usually bring our own card games or small board games like Cribbage.
Voyageur Brewing Company is a must-visit for us every time we’re in town, and it’s easy to see why from our Instagram stories! With a welcoming fireplace and ample seating, it’s an ideal place for a delicious meal and a pint. The menu boasts delicious appetizers and small plates, including Reuben eggrolls (a personal favorite!), pizza, charcuterie with smoked fish, and soft pretzels with cheese. They also offer a tasty kids’ menu.
Check out the Harbor + Downtown Grand Marais
Exploring the harbor and downtown Grand Marais is a must-do in the fall. Artists’ Point and the Grand Marais Lighthouse, two of the town’s most iconic spots, are easily accessible from downtown by car or on foot. Enjoy a leisurely stroll with your kids along the break-wall and take in the idyllic views of downtown. Don’t miss taking pictures with the lighthouse! Lucky families may even spot birds, fish, beavers, and more along the way!
Harbor Beach is also a great fall destination (it’s the beach off Wisconsin Street). Kids (and the young at heart) will have a blast hunting for rocks to skip across the water or searching for colorful agates. The cooler weather and changing scenery make it a perfect time for family fun along the lake! Afterward, head further into town to check out some of the local shops, galleries, and artisan huts.
Here are my favorite local shops to peek into:
- The Big Lake Life (I rarely leave town without stopping here!)
- Roam & Whimsy Co. (one of the newest + cutest shops in town!)
- Upstate MN
- Drury Lane Books
- Sivertson Gallery
- The Fisherman’s Daughter
- Beth’s Fudge & Gifts
- Joy & Company
Finally, the Cook County History Museum is open in the fall (check their website for up-to-date hours and exhibits). Visit the former lightkeeper’s residence at this museum, which was built in 1896. The museum offers a great collection of exhibits to learn more about Grand Marais’ local history.
Catch a Sunset over the Lighthouse
Sunset is one of my favorite times to explore the area near Harbor Beach and the lighthouse. It doesn’t hurt that the fall sunsets here are spectacular! Grab a blanket and some hot cocoa to keep everyone warm. You can also throw the blanket down on Harbor Beach if you prefer to sit instead of trekking out to the lighthouse. If the walk to the lighthouse feels too chilly, you can enjoy the sunset from the cozy indoor space or patio area at Voyageur Brewing Company. Or, head up to the rooftop bar area to watch the sun go down.
Alternatively, for an early morning treat, head to Artists’ Point for a breathtaking sunrise. Walk through the colorful fall foliage or along the lakeside rocks to the tip of the point. The sunrise here is unforgettable and perfect for early risers.
Arrive about 20-30 minutes before sunset to find the perfect spot and enjoy the views (or take pictures!). A quick check online will give you the best times for sunrise and sunset, and let you know if the weather might be too cloudy for a clear view.
Attend an Autumn Festival
Attending a fall festival can be a great way to experience Grand Marais with kids! Check the community schedule for seasonal festivals and events, when you’re looking for unique ideas for visiting Grand Marais in the fall.
Here are a few Grand Marais fall festivals we like:
- September: WTIP’s Radio Waves Music Festival
- September: Art Along the Lake: Fall Studio Tour
- October: Moose Madness Family Festival (always MEA weekend)
Additional Fall Activities in Grand Marais for Families
There are tons of exciting fall things to do with kids in Grand Marais! In fact, we haven’t even tried all of the fantastic fall activities near Grand Marais ourselves yet. If you’re looking for a few more things to do during your next trip, here are some additional ideas (but, full disclosure, ones we personally haven’t tried…yet!):
- North Shore eBike
- Rent a Canoe or Kayak from Stone Harbor Wilderness Supply
Where to Eat in Grand Marais with Kids this Fall
If you are looking for the best restaurants in Grand Marais with kids, these recommendations are autumn-perfect!
- Java Moose Espresso Cafe, Grand Marais (they have kid’s games and puzzles near the bathroom)
- World’s Best Donuts, Grand Marais (they are usually open to mid-October/through MEA)
- Hungry Hippie Tacos, Grand Marais
- The Fisherman’s Daughter, Grand Marais
- Angry Trout Cafe, Grand Marais
- Superior Creamery, Grand Marais (ice cream + food options)
- My Sister’s Place, Grand Marais
- Voyageur Brewing Company, Grand Marais
- Cascade Lodge Restaurant & Pub, Grand Marais
- SHOOK, food truck in Grand Marais
- Coho Cafe & Bakery, Tofte
- Bluefin Grille, Tofte
READ NEXT: Foodie Family Approved: 16+ Best Restaurants in Grand Marais with Kids
Where to Stay in Grand Marais with Kids this Fall
Now that you know what to do with kids in Grand Marais this fall, let’s talk about where to stay! Bluefin Bay on Lake Superior is a top choice for a cozy retreat. Nestled along the shoreline, it offers stunning views, spacious townhouse accommodations, and plenty of amenities, including an on-site pool, spa, and restaurants.
Thomsonite Inn is another favorite, known for its peaceful location just outside of downtown Grand Marais. It’s perfect for a fall getaway with fantastic lake views, recently renovated rooms with kitchens, and a family-friendly sauna (with no age restrictions).
Other great options for families include East Bay Suites, Gunflint Lodge & Outfitters, and Skyport Lodge. If you’re looking for budget-friendly choices, consider Best Western Plus Superior Inn. No matter where you stay, you’ll be close to all the fantastic fall activities Grand Marais has to offer!
Keep Exploring Grand Marais with Kids!
I hope you found this list of fall things to do in Grand Marais with kids helpful in planning your own family adventures! From its stunning views of Lake Superior to its kid-friendly trails and colorful scenic drives, Grand Marais is a fantastic place to explore with kids this fall—especially for MEA. Hopefully, you and your kids will enjoy trying the many fall activities on the North Shore together!
Unless otherwise noted, all images in this article were taken by and belong to the blog’s author, Antonia Grant. This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy for more information.