This post, featuring some of the best fall day trips from Minneapolis with kids, may contain affiliate links. For more, please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy.
Looking for a burst of autumn adventure close to Minneapolis with your family? You’re in the right spot! There are so many fun Minnesota day trips that allow you to see vibrant fall colors and fill your lungs with crisp autumn air. From charming small towns to scenic hikes and cozy apple orchards, each destination on this list offers its own unique mix of autumn-inspired things to do for all ages. To help you plan your own family adventures, I’ve included fun things to do, places to eat, and more for a full day of excitement! Ready to hit the road? Pack up the kids, grab some snacks, and get ready to enjoy some of the best fall day trips from Minneapolis with your kids (all within 2 hours). Here are my favorite picks for the top 9 Vibrant Fall Day Trips from Minneapolis for Families!
Taylors Falls
Just under an hour from Minneapolis, Taylors Falls is the ultimate fall day trip for families! Nestled along the St. Croix River, this charming town bursts with color and adventure in the fall. Its proximity to the Twin Cities and array of fun activities make it one of my favorite spots on this list of the best fall day trips from Minneapolis with kids!
Start your day at Coffee Talk. Then, head over to Interstate State Park for a hike. Here, kids can explore towering rock formations and glacial potholes. Afterward, hop on a Taylors Falls Scenic Boat to soak in the area’s stunning landscapes and rich history. They are offering tours through MEA. Swedish Immigrant Regional Trail is another excellent spot for an autumn hike (there is a trailhead near the Taylors Falls Municipal Building), with a paved trail that’s ideal for strollers or tiny trekkers. Alternatively, thrill-seekers will love Wild Mountain’s alpine slides and go-kart tracks for fall foliage at high speeds. Wrap up your trip with a tasty treat or lunch at Juneberry Cafe or Schoony’s Malt Shop and Pizzeria. With so much to offer, Taylors Falls is a must-visit destination this fall!
Ready to get more help planning? Read this: How to Spend a Fantastic Fall Day in Taylors Falls with Kids
Shafer
For beautiful rolling hills and small-town charm this fall, head to Shafer! Less than an hour from Minneapolis, Shafer offers an idyllic day trip with wide-open spaces and a rich farming heritage.
As you explore, breathe in the fresh country air and soak up the town’s welcoming vibe. To experience local life, start your day at a family-friendly farm and experience the agricultural roots that make Shafer so special. Pleasant Valley Orchard offers pick-your-own apples and pumpkins in the fall, as well as an enchanting farm store, scenic trail, and more. Then, Slattengren Farms is popular amongst families for its epic corn maze, farm store packed with maple-inspired treats, and other fall activities. Meanwhile, those seeking relaxation can wander the whimsical Franconia Sculpture. Here, unique art installations will spark creativity and imagination in kids and adults alike. With so much to offer, you’ll quickly see why Shafer is one of the best fall day trips from Minneapolis with kids!
New Ulm
For a taste of European charm this fall, New Ulm is the perfect day trip for families just 1.5 hours southwest of Minneapolis. Embrace the town’s rich German heritage and vibrant fall colors from late September to mid-October.
As one of the best fall day trips near the Twin Cities for families, begin your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, like Backerei & Coffee Shop. Afterward, explore the charming downtown streets and shops. Kids will love the whimsical Glockenspiel and German Park’s pirate ship playground. When you’re done exploring, enjoy lunch at the Rathskeller at Turner Hall, where you can also admire several beautifully restored murals. After lunch, climb the 99 steps of Hermann Monument for stunning river valley views – made even better by the vibrant fall foliage. Flandrau State Park is another excellent spot for outdoor adventures and fall foliage. If you’re up for it, tour Schell’s Brewery for a mix of history and craft brews. You can also stroll through its beautiful gardens. They also offer an annual Oktoberfest celebration! Wrap up your visit with a hearty German dinner at Kaiserhoff.
READ NEXT: How to Spend 1 Amazing Day in New Ulm With Kids
Ferguson’s Orchard in Eau Claire
Just 90 minutes from Minneapolis, Ferguson’s Orchard in Eau Claire is undoubtedly one of the best fall day trips from Minneapolis with kids. From its exciting fall activities to its idyllic farm scenery, I think it’s the perfect spot for a fun-filled fall day for the whole family!
This award-winning, family-owned orchard offers everything from apple and pumpkin picking to a giant corn maze and the action-packed Apple Blossom Park. With over 18 activities, including a low ropes course, wagon rides, and the new Bubble Barn Bubble Station, there’s something for kids of all ages. While you’re there, don’t forget to grab a cider slushie (hard or non-alcoholic) and enjoy a treat from the farm market. Their apple cider donuts are DIVINE! With its beautiful scenery and endless fall activities, Ferguson’s Orchard offers tons of fun things to do near the Twin Cities this fall for families!
READ NEXT: 9 Colorful Fall Getaways from Minneapolis with Kids
New Prague
Add New Prague to your Minnesota fall bucket list for a perfect day trip with kids! Less than an hour from Minneapolis, it’s one of my favorite Minnesota day trips for fall colors. The drive from the Twin Cities is stunning, and that’s just the beginning!
Start your morning with a cozy seasonal drink and autumn-baked goods from Cedar Press Coffee. Then, head out to do some browsing in the shops downtown. I love the warm fall finds at Cedar and Sage. Then stop by Lau’s Czech Bakery for a delicious Bohemian treat for the road or a hearty, home-cooked lunch. After exploring downtown, head to Barten Pumpkins to pick a pumpkin or two for your front porch. It is by far the cutest pumpkin patch I’ve ever visited! If you visit during Dožínky Fest in September, you’ll experience the vibrant Czech heritage of this community with authentic food, a beer garden, and an open-air market along Main Street. Finally, swing by Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store on your way home for a sweet finish to the day!
Osceola & St. Croix Valley Railroad
For a unique fall adventure, hop aboard the Osceola and St. Croix Valley Railway for their Fall Color Tour or Pumpkin Express! This family-friendly train ride offers a front-row seat to the stunning autumn foliage – making it one of the best fall day trips near the Twin Cities for families. Imagine whizzing past vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows lighting up the scenic river valley!
The Fall Color Tour offers a relaxing journey through some of Minnesota’s most picturesque landscapes. For added kid-friendly fun, the Pumpkin Express takes your family on a festive ride to Dresser, where they can pick out the perfect pumpkin. You can also check out the games, hayride, eats and treats, and a small flea market during the stop. Whether you’re marveling at the fall scenery or celebrating the season with pumpkins, these train rides are unforgettable ways to enjoy autumn in Minnesota! They also have a few other thematic treks that go into the fall, like the Wine Tasting Train to Marine. No wonder this is one of the most fun things to do with kids near the Twin Cities this fall!
READ NEXT: The Ultimate Fall Bucket List: 21+ Best Things to Do in Minnesota with Kids this Season
Stillwater
One of the best fall day trips from Minneapolis with kids is Stillwater, the Birthplace of Minnesota. Just 30 minutes from Minneapolis, this charming riverside town offers a mix of history and seasonal fun for all ages. Plus, Stillwater offers three great autumn festivals: Saint Croix Vineyards’ Annual Grape Stomp Festival, Apple Festival, and the Stillwater Harvest Fest.
Kick off your day with a scenic walk across the pedestrian bridge connecting Minnesota and Wisconsin, offering stunning views of the St. Croix River and vibrant fall colors. Then, hop on the Stillwater Trolley for a fun-filled tour through town (they have several tour types). Afterward, don’t forget to stroll downtown and peek into a few shops. Downtown Stillwater offers every kind of shop you could hope for! When exploring with kiddos, be sure to stop by Tremblay’s Sweet Shop for a treat. Afterward, enjoy a family lunch at Leo’s Grill & Malt Shop. In the afternoon, head to Aamodt’s Apple Farm for apple picking, delicious seasonal goodies, and a chance to meet the friendly goats. Whether exploring local history or enjoying a fall festival, Stillwater is a lovely day trip for families looking to make the most of autumn!
Northfield
Just 45 minutes south of Minneapolis, Northfield seamlessly blends small-town charm with college-town energy into one exciting destination. Northfield offers beautiful hikes, cozy eateries, and fun shops to browse, making it one of the best fall day trips near the Twin Cities for families.
Start your adventure with a cozy coffee and pastry from Little Joy Coffee. Afterward, stroll through downtown, which is lined with autumn leaves and boutique shops. Peek into unique shops like Content Books and The Measuring Cup. While you meander, enjoy fresh, crisp autumn air while taking in views of the Cannon River. Grab lunch at Hogan Brothers or Coco’s Place. Need a place to play? Head to Central Park or Way Park (a music-themed playground) for playgrounds surrounded by fall foliage. For outdoor fun, head to nearby Nerstrand Big Woods State Park for a picturesque hike to one of Minnesota’s best waterfalls. They even have a fun wooden playground for kids!
Afterward, kids will love visiting Bridgewater Farm for pumpkin picking, hay rides, and a corn maze. Alternatively, head to Fireside Orchard for freshly picked apples and delicious fall treats. Or, try both! Whether you’re shopping, hiking, or enjoying fun on the farm, Northfield has everything you need for a memorable autumn day trip with your kids.
Red Wing
Red Wing offers family-friendly adventures against a stunning Mississippi River backdrop for the perfect fall day. Just an hour from Minneapolis, this charming town hosts autumn events like the Bluff Color Fest Trail Run/Hike and guided bird walks at Frontenac State Park. Events like this makeup only a small portion of why Red Wing is one of the best fall day trips from Minneapolis with kids!
Hike up Barn Bluff for panoramic river views framed by vivid fall colors. Or, head to Frontenac State Park for bird-watching and scenic trails. Families can also enjoy a relaxing stroll through Bay Point Park. Need a place to play? Let the kids burn off energy at Colvill Park. Alternatively, take a scenic bike ride on the Cannon Valley Trail for a more adventurous outing. End your day with a visit to Driftless Orchard in nearby Hager for apple picking, pumpkins, and more fall delights. Undoubtedly, Red Wing is among the best destinations for fun Minnesota day trips to enjoy breathtaking fall colors.
Enjoy Fall with Your Kids!
With so many exciting destinations just a short drive away, the best fall day trips from Minneapolis with kids are filled with adventure, seasonal treats, and stunning landscapes. I hope this list helps you and your family make new memories together! From idyllic apple orchards and charming small towns to scenic hikes, these fun Minnesota day trips all showcase vibrant fall colors throughout your adventures. Whether shopping in riverside towns, biking scenic trails, or simply enjoying breathtaking autumn foliage, fall in Minnesota is the perfect time to explore new places 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.