Fall Weekend Getaways near Minneapolis: 11 Fun Cities with Kids

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A young girl looks at a view of the river, while hiking at Interstate State Park in Chisago Lakes, one of the best fall weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids.

Living in Minneapolis is wonderful, but sometimes, a fall getaway to one of our favorite spots in the Midwest is just what the family needs. If you’re craving a break from the daily grind with your kids this autumn, you're in luck! I’ve rounded up my top picks for the best fall weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids-just for you and your kiddos! Autumn’s crisp air, vibrant foliage, and cozy atmosphere make it the perfect season to plan a family adventure (especially during MEA!). From charming small towns to thrilling outdoor activities, many exciting destinations in Minnesota and Wisconsin cater to families with kids of all ages and interests. Keep reading to discover my hand-picked spots for the 11 best fall weekend trips for families traveling from Minneapolis.

For each destination, I've included a few recommendations for things to do, kid-friendly restaurants, and family-friendly places to stay to help you plan your fall trip!

Fun Fall Weekend Trips in Minnesota with Kids

Some of the best fall weekend getaways with kids near Minneapolis are STILL in Minnesota! Whether you want to see a kaleidoscope of color alongside incredible views of Lake Superior, enjoy epic outdoor adventures for all ages, or explore enchanting downtowns, these five family-friendly fall destinations in Minnesota offer something for everyone. These are my top picks for some of the best fall destinations in Minnesota with kids-all within 4.5 hours of Minneapolis.

Grand Marais

Grand Marais is undoubtedly one of the best fall weekend getaways near Minneapolis for families! In fact, it is one of my favorite destinations in Minnesota with kids. In the fall, Grand Marais boasts a rainbow of color along the Sawtooth Mountains and the shores of Lake Superior. Just 4.5 hours from Minneapolis, this charming lakeside town is perfect for a family-friendly autumn trek.

Head north this fall to enjoy breathtaking Lake Superior views, colorful fall foliage, and refreshing hikes with your kids. The crisp air and vibrant leaves make it an ideal destination for cozy, relaxing getaways for all ages. Pack your sweatshirts and wool socks! The cool temperatures are perfect for snuggling up by the fire. Keep reading to discover why Grand Marais is one of the best fall trips for kids in Minnesota.

Best Fall Things to Do in Grand Marais with Kids

A young girl runs along a rocky beach in Grand Marais in the fall.

Here are a few of my top picks for fun things to do in Grand Marais this fall with kids:

Throw rocks in Lake Superior from the Grand Marais Harbor. Afterward, walk out to the Grand Marais Lighthouse or along the Artists’ Point trails. The Grand Marais Lighthouse is best at sunset!
Go for a hike! Some of our favorite trails are in Cascade River State Park and Judge C.R. Magney State Park. Read this article to discover more excellent hikes near Grand Marais.
Enjoy the vibrant fall colors while you hike the Oberg Mountain Trail.
Learn something new together at Grand Portage National Monument, featuring a well-curated museum. Afterward, hike Mount Rose Trail for more autumn views.
Try the alpine slide at Lutsen Mountains! You can also ride the gondola during the fall. At the top, you'll find a chalet restaurant, excellent seasonal views, and trails to explore.
Stop by Wild Country Maple in Lutsen for maple syrup and maple caramels!

Best Places to Eat in Grand Marais with Kids

An aerial view of a spread of food, including a flatbread pizza and Rueben egg rolls, from Voyageur Brewing in Grand Marais.

Wondering where to eat in Grand Marais with kids? Here are some of our favorite fall eats:

Java Moose Espresso Cafe is the perfect spot to try a Maple Latte (it's made with locally sourced maple syrup!).
Voyageur Brewing Company is a must every time we are in town! Try the Reuben eggrolls – they are my favorite!
The Fisherman's Daughter offers a menu filled with delicious, fresh-caught fish and incredible fries.
My Sister’s Place is a great spot for pizza and other American favorites. My daughter loves their lemon arugula pizza!
The Angry Trout Cafe is ideal for a nice dinner with excellent lake views.

Find more great eats in Grand Marais by reading my guide: Foodie Family Approved: 16+ Best Restaurants in Grand Marais with Kids

Best Places to Stay in Grand Marais with Kids

Here are our top five recommendations for hotels and places to stay in Grand Marais for families:

Duluth

Nestled along the shores of Lake Superior, Duluth only about 2 hours from Minneapolis (which makes it an easy weekend trip for all ages). Families looking for a mix of outdoor fun and urban amenities will love Duluth. Plus, one of the country's best bird migrations happens over Duluth in the fall! The city is, without a doubt, one of the best fall weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids of all ages.

Duluth has much to offer families with kids of all ages, including outdoor activities, a growing foodie scene, and excellent museums. Plus, since the city is built on a hill, you can soak in epic fall views from almost anywhere in the city. Here are a few of my favorite autumn activities in Duluth for families.

Best Fall Things to Do in Duluth with Kids

A family of three hikes together at Hartley Nature Center, one of the best things to do in Duluth with kids.

Planning a fall weekend getaway to Duluth with kids? Here's what to do once you get there:

Explore Canal Park together! Simply wandering about and watching the huge ships pass through the aerial lift bridge is enough to have fun in Duluth with kids.
Great Lakes Aquarium is a must for kids of all ages, featuring tons of hands-on exhibits. If you are traveling with young kids, add the Duluth Children's Museum to your itinerary, too.
Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory is a must for fall, as a massive bird migration happens here from mid-August to early December (with peak migration from mid-September to late October).
Glensheen Mansion has self-guided tours of its historic home and gardens. The well-preserved rooms and gardens are beautiful (the indoor tour is likely best for older kids and teens).
Duluth offers several fantastic hiking trails for families with kids of all ages! Kid-friendly trails can be found at Chester Park Loop, Lester Park Trail, or Hartley Nature Center. Nearby state parks include Jay Cooke State Park (20 min away) and Gooseberry Falls State Park (45 min away).

Best Places to Eat in Duluth with Kids

Soup and a sandwich from Sir Benedict’s Tavern on the Lake.

When you're ready to eat, here are some of my favorite places to eat in Duluth:

Uncle Loui's Cafe is a must for at least one breakfast.
Canal Park Brewing Company is excellent for apps and drinks. It's right in Canal Park and has a fun summer patio with lake views (they have a kids' menu).
In Canal Park, Vitta Pizza serves delicious, wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizza.
Sir Benedicts Tavern on the Lake is one of our go-to eateries in Duluth. This classic English-style pub offers exceptional sandwiches (and a kids' menu, too). In the summer, they have a patio and live music.
Hungry Hippie Tacos, a sister restaurant to the one in Grand Marais, is located in the up-and-coming Lincoln Park Craft District. Go for the iconic puffy tacos and massive summer patio.

Best Places to Stay in Duluth with Kids

Here's where to stay in Duluth with kids this fall; most of these hotels offer pools alongside great locations.

Enger Lofts Hotel
Edgewater Hotel and Waterpark (has an indoor waterpark)
Canal Park Lodge
Pier B Resort Hotel
Holiday Inn & Suites Duluth-Downtown, an IHG Hotel

Crosby (the Cuyuna Lakes Area)

A family of three stands together at a lookout point near Crosby, one of the best fall weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids.

Just 2.5 hours from the Twin Cities, Crosby is a hidden gem when it comes to the best fall destinations in Minnesota with kids. Honestly, I think it's one of the coolest small towns in Minnesota! Known for its mining history, Crosby is now a haven for outdoor adventure enthusiasts and those seeking a quiet reprieve in nature.

Not only is it full of great outdoor activities (like hiking and mountain biking), but the downtown area features top-notch dining and charming shops to peruse. If you're looking for fun fall weekend getaways in Minnesota for families, put Crosby on your list! Below, I've shared my top recommendations for things to do, as well as places to eat and stay in Crosby with kids this fall.

Best Fall Things to Do in Crosby with Kids

A mom and his young daughter roast marshmallows, while staying at Cuyuna Cove.

Here are some of my favorite fall things to do in Crosby with kids:

Take in the vibrant autumn colors from Miners Mountain Overlook in Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area.
Hike along the trails at Milford Mine Historical Park. The boardwalk trail winds along, featuring signs sharing tidbits about the local history, including Minnesota's largest mining disaster in 1924.
Meet the massive Serpent on the shores of Serpent Lake, and play at the pirate-themed playground near Serpent Lake.
Crow Wing State Park is about 30 minutes from downtown Crosby. One of my favorite state parks, it has beautiful waterfront trails that wind through a wooded area. Then, Mille Lacs Kathio State Park (40 min away) or Father Hennepin State Park (50 min away) are also nearby for added trail options.
Pop into Victual while shopping in town to grab a charcuterie board or gourmet s'mores supplies. They have tasty ice cream, too!

Best Places to Eat in Crosby with Kids

Here are my favorite places to eat in Crosby for families:

Croft Kitchen and Bar has some seriously good pub grub. It's my favorite spot in town.
Red Raven for coffee + breakfast (get the breakfast burrito – you won't regret it!). They also serve lunch sandwiches and draft beer.
Rafferty’s Pizza has some of the most beloved pizza in the state!
Burritos California features yummy burritos, tacos, and more. It is best paired with drinks from Cuyuna Brewing Company, located next door.
Drunken Noodle Crosby serves seasonal specials and classic Asian noodle dishes.

Best Places to Stay in Crosby with Kids

Ready to book your stay? Here are our top picks for hotels or home rentals in Crosby with kids:

Chisago Lakes

Exciting weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids this fall don't get much better than Chisago Lakes! About an hour from Minneapolis, this area boasts five beautiful communities along Highway 8, including Chisago City, Lindström, and Taylors Falls. A hidden gem for fall experiences, these communities have plenty of outdoor adventures, enchanting farms, and low-key, family-friendly activities.

Chisago Lakes is best known for its charming downtowns, kid-friendly hiking trails (including two excellent state parks), and welcoming locals. Each community offers a variety of fun activities, great dining, and cozy accommodations. Since they are so close together, however, you can certainly enjoy the best each has to offer in one trip! During your fall weekend in Chisago Lakes with kids, fill your days with everything from scenic hiking and boutique shopping to kid-friendly farm visits.

Best Fall Things to Do in Chisago Lakes with Kids

A dad and his young daughter play a game during a fall festival in Chisago Lakes.

Here are just a few of my favorite fall things to do from Chisago City to Taylors Falls for families:

Explore the whimsical art installations at Franconia Sculpture Park. Some of the pieces are even interactive! Plus, the park is free.
Hike at Wild River State Park or Interstate State Park. Both offer fantastic family-friendly trails and autumn views. Alternatively, Allemansrätt Park is another fun option!
Locally owned and operated in Shafer, Slattengren Farms has been making pure maple syrup for four generations! In the fall, they boast one of the best corn mazes in Minnesota. Not to mention, several lawn games, excellent food, and stunning fall foliage.
Pick apples together at Pleasant Valley Orchard. Located in Shafer, fall visits can also include cider slushies and donuts, live music, farm animals, and other activities for all ages.
Ride Go-Karts and race down the thrilling Alpine Slide at Wild Mountain in Taylors Falls. Afterward, enjoy the beautiful fall colors with a chairlift ride!

Best Places to Eat in Chisago Lakes with Kids

Fish and chips from The Northern Lake Tavern & Grill.

Wondering where to eat in Chisago Lakes with kids this fall? Here are some of our favorite eateries in the area.

Northwoods Roasterie (Lindström) for coffee and pastries.
Gustaf’s On Main Eatery (Lindström) serves a fantastic all-day breakfast, plus sandwiches, wraps, and other lunch items. They also have pie and ice cream!
Schoony's Malt Shop & Pizzeria (Taylors Falls) is a fantastic spot for pizza, malts, and ice cream with kids.
The Northern Lake Tavern & Grill (Chisago City) is a cabin-style eatery with waterfront views. The menu features appetizers, wraps and tacos, flatbread pizzas, and more. There is also a kids' menu.
The Stone Inn (Chisago City) offers an extensive menu (including burgers and broasted chicken). They also have a dedicated kids' menu.

Best Places to Stay in Chisago Lakes with Kids

For one of the best fall weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids, here's where to book your stay in Chisago Lakes this fall:

Ely

Antonia enjoys a slow morning coffee, while sitting in a cozy cabin in Ely, one of the best fall weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids.

Ely, a charming town in northern Minnesota, is dazzling in the fall. Just 4.5 hours from Minneapolis, Ely is an ideal destination for a road trip with kids this fall. Ely offers outdoor adventures, cozy cabins, and incredible wildlife encounters.

As a gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), this area is perfect for hiking and fall paddling. You can also learn about Minnesota’s wildlife here, including the area's wolf population. We visited Ely with our daughter for the first time this year and were amazed by its beauty. Don't wait as long as we did to experience it! With so much to offer, Ely is undoubtedly one of the best fall weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids (especially for those seeking a quiet trip to the woods).

Best Fall Things to Do in Ely with Kids

A young girl observes a wolf at the International Wolf Center, one of the best things to do in Ely with kids.

Here's what to add to your fall weekend itinerary in Ely with kids:

The International Wolf Center features a small, but well-curated museum, an observation area where you can view the ambassador wolves, and several talks about the wolves throughout the day.
Hiking! Ely is best explored on its many trails. Consider Trezona Trail Head (an easy, 3.9-mile paved loop trail) or Kawishiwi Falls (an easy, 1-mile loop with a beautiful waterfall).
For more trails, head to Bear Head Lake State Park. We adore this state park for its scenic trails that meander through secluded pine forests and around pristine lakes.
Go stargazing – the night sky is wonderful here.
Stay in a cozy cabin to snuggle by the fire, read books, and play games together.

Best Places to Eat in Ely with Kids

Wondering where to eat in Ely with your kids? Here's what we recommend:

Boat House Brew Pub & Restaurant is an excellent spot for pub grub and pizzas.
Northern Grounds is located in downtown Ely and offers a top-notch selection of breakfast pastries, coffee, and other food and drinks.
Evergreen Restaurant is the on-site restaurant at the Grand Ely Lodge on Shagawa Lake. It serves fresh-caught fish and has lake views!
Insula Restaurant offers classic American fare with a twist, like bison burgers, walleye sandwiches, and more (they have a kids' menu).

Best Places to Stay in Ely with Kids

When you're ready to book your stay and explore Ely with kids, consider staying at:

Piney Woods Retreat (we love staying here!)
Grand Ely Lodge
Moose Track Adventures
YMCA Camp Northern Lights
Canoe On Inn

Fun Fall Weekend Trips in the Upper Midwest with Kids

Wisconsin and North Dakota also boast some of the best fall weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids! If you're hoping to get out of Minnesota for a bit (which is an excellent idea during MEA when Minnesota destinations tend to fill quickly), these are my top picks for the best fall destinations in Wisconsin and North Dakota with kids. They range from 90 minutes to 5.5 hours away from Minneapolis. Each city boasts kid-friendly activities for all ages, excellent restaurants, and more!

Door County, Wisconsin

A man and his daughter stand together on School House Beach in Washington Island.

One of the most magical fall trips we've ever taken was to Door County. It was our MEA trip in 2020. Renowned for its stunning fall colors, this Wisconsin destination offers incredible family-friendly activities. Start your adventure by exploring the charming towns dotting the peninsula’s western coast, where you’ll find delightful roadside apple stands selling everything from fresh apples to mouthwatering pies.

Kids will also love visiting iconic lighthouses like Eagle Bluff and Cana Island. Then, don't miss a tasting at one of the local wineries or Island Orchard Cider. All of them feature local, seasonal produce like Door County's famous cherries! With its enchanting scenery and endless activities for all ages, Door County is undoubtedly one of the best fall weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids.

Best Fall Things to Do in Door County with Kids

A man and his young daughter sit together on Sand Dune Beach in Washington Island.

As one of the best fall destinations in Wisconsin with kids, there are tons of things to do during your trip. Here are our top 5 picks to get you started:

Go for a family hike at Peninsula State Park or The Ridges Sanctuary (this is one of our favorite hikes in Wisconsin!).
Take the ferry to Washington Island and soak in the autumn hues at Schoolhouse Beach. Afterward, warm up with a delicious bowl of soup at Jackson Harbor Soup before returning to the mainland.
Visit one of the many orchards and farm markets across the peninsula – you really can't go wrong with any of them!
Learn something new together at the Door County Maritime Museum (located in Sturgeon Bay).
Challenge one another to a round (or two) of mini-golf at Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf in Sister Bay.

Best Places to Eat in Door County with Kids

Fuel up for your next adventures at one of the best restaurants in Door County; here's where to start:

Wild Tomato Wood-Fired Pizza & Grille for excellent pizza in Fish Creek or Sister Bay.
Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant & Butik in Sister Bay serves traditional Swedish fare, and goats are on the roof!
Make a reservation for a fish boil at the Old Post Office Restaurant in Ephraim. They have kids' options too. This is both a show and a dining experience!
Try Roost+Banter in Baileys Harbor for great coffee, sandwiches, and more. Works for breakfast or lunch!
For a low-key, but delicious night, grab some pierogi from Prince of Pierogi Restaurant in Ephraim. Eat outside if the weather is nice, or take it to go.

Best Places to Stay in Door County with Kids

Looking for some of the best places to stay in Door County with kids, here are a few family-friendly options to consider:

Ephraim Shores Resort in Ephraim
Glidden Lodge Beach Resort in Sturgeon Bay
Edgewater Resort in Ephraim
Scandinavian Lodge in Sister Bay
Open Hearth Lodge in Sister Bay

Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Antonia and her young daughter enjoy a bit of ice cream while meandering downtown Eau Claire, one of the best fall weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids.

Fun fall weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids don't get much better than Eau Claire, Wisconsin. This city is packed with kid-friendly things to do in the fall. Just 90 minutes from Minneapolis, Eau Claire has become a trending destination recently-and it's easy to see why! Eau Claire's vibrant music and growing foodie scene make it the ideal place for families with older kids and teens. Meanwhile, those traveling with littles will delight in its recently renovated children's museum, massive playgrounds, and delightful autumn farms.

From hiking, boutique shopping, farm visits, and scenic nature centers, there are several exciting things to do in Eau Claire that will appeal to all ages and interests. Plus, those interested in concerts or theater performances will find endless options. Outdoor families will also find amazing adventures to enjoy mild fall temperatures.

Best Fall Things to Do in Eau Claire with Kids

Antonia stands on a bridge in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.

Dreaming of a fall weekend away with kids to Eau Claire? Here's what to do once you get there:

Pick apples and dive into the fall season at Ferguson’s Orchard, where there are tons of kid-friendly activities like wagon rides, corn pits, cow trains, and more.
Explore the Eau Claire Sculpture Tour. With 70+ unique installations, it is one of the largest self-guided sculpture tours in the country.
Play at the huge playground in Carson Park. Then, challenge kids to find the Hank Aaron statue. He spent part of his early career in Eau Claire!
Take a hike and learn something new at Beaver Creek Reserve. Alternatively, discover more kid-friendly trails at Big Falls County Park or the Chippewa River State Trail.
Traveling with littles? Visit the Children's Museum of Eau Claire. Alternatively, older kids may prefer the Chippewa Valley Museum or Wisconsin Logging Museum.

Best Places to Eat in Eau Claire with Kids

A beautiful strawberry crepe from The Nucleus, a restaurant in Eau Claire.

Looking for kid-friendly places to eat in Eau Claire? Here are a few of our favorite spots:

The Nucleus is a must for breakfast or brunch, featuring yummy options like crepes and omelets!
Acoustic Cafe offers top-notch hoagies and ice cream downtown.
44 North has an extensive menu of burgers, tacos, and more. Plus, there is a fun on-site arcade.
Stella Blues is one of my favorites for dinner, featuring a unique menu filled with Cajun favorites (they have a kids' menu).
Valley Burger Company for the best burgers in the city!

Best Places to Stay in Eau Claire with Kids

Book your stay at one of these excellent hotels in Eau Claire with kids:

Staybridge Suites Eau Claire – Altoona, an IHG Hotel (we've stayed here; I love the large suites, pool, and outdoor patio)
Metropolis Resort & Conference Center
The Lismore Hotel Eau Claire – a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
The Oxbow Hotel
Holiday Inn Eau Claire South I-94, an IHG Hotel

La Crosse, Wisconsin

If you're looking for exciting Wisconsin destinations for families, La Crosse is fun for all ages. Families adore La Crosse for its lovely downtown, top-notch hiking, and scenic Mississippi River views. Just shy of 2.5 hours from Minneapolis, La Crosse is undoubtedly one of our favorite fall weekend getaways near Minneapolis for families (especially given its location along the Great River Road!). You're in for a beautiful drive along the Mississippi River to reach the city!

There are so many fun, family-friendly things to do in La Crosse this fall. Whether your family wants to spend the weekend hiking amongst the vibrant fall foliage or browsing downtown shops, La Crosse provides the perfect blend of outdoor and urban experiences. Plus, you'll be greeted in every direction by unparalleled views of the Mississippi River and nearby bluffs. Talk about a vibrant fall escape!

Best Fall Things to Do in La Crosse with Kids

Ready to spend a fall weekend in La Crosse with kids? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Hike Grandad Bluff Park! This is one of the best spots for breathtaking views of downtown La Crosse and the area's fall colors. Want more places to hike? Consider Mathy Tract-Mississippi Valley Conservancy or Perrot State Park.
Rivoli Theater & Pizzeria offers an exciting movie theater experience paired with delicious pizza.
If you are traveling with littles, don't miss the Children’s Museum of La Crosse.
Nature enthusiasts will love the International Owl Center in nearby Houston, Minnesota.
Check out Pearl Street Books with young readers. It's a charming independent bookstore in downtown.

Best Places to Eat in La Crosse with Kids

Let's eat! When tummies get hungry, here's where to go in La Crosse:

Digger’s Sting Restaurant is the best option for an iconic Wisconsin Super Club experience.
Buzzard Billy’s for delicious Cajun-Creole eats.
Taqueria Pata Azul is the best spot in La Crosse for tacos.
Fayze's Restaurant and Bakery boasts an old-school diner vibe with an excellent breakfast menu.
Rosie’s Cafe is a quaint diner offering scratch-made American breakfast items. There is also a lovely kids' menu.

Best Places to Stay in La Crosse with Kids

Ready to explore La Crosse with your family? Here's where to stay:

New Glarus, Wisconsin

Craving a touch of Switzerland in the Midwest? Embark on a fall road trip to New Glarus, Wisconsin! Nestled in the lush hills of Green County, New Glarus was founded by Swiss immigrants in the mid-1800s. New Glarus is a fantastic choice if you're searching for unique fall weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids! Only about 4.5 hours from Minneapolis, New Glarus is ideal for families seeking a mix of history, great food, and beautiful outdoor spaces. It was our MEA trip in 2023, and we LOVED it!

New Glarus has truly earned its title as America's Little Switzerland. There are hints of its Swiss heritage throughout downtown, from chalet-style buildings to Swiss-inspired restaurants. Explore low-key playgrounds, scenic hikes, whimsical home tours, and its iconic "cow parade". Indeed, New Glarus is filled with things to do for all ages. I've shared my top picks for things to do, restaurants, and more in the area to help you get started!

Best Fall Things to Do in New Glarus with Kids

A beautiful fall view in New Glarus, one of the best fall weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids.

If I were to go back to New Glarus with kids, this is what I would (still) add to my itinerary:

Embark on the self-guided New Glarus Cow Parade. Kids will delight in trying to find all 15 cows (I know we did!). One of the cows will even greet you at Village Park, which offers a lovely playground and green space for littles.
Take a New Glarus Brewery tour! They are self-guided and family-friendly. Adults 21+ can also do a tasting. They often have food trucks on-site, too.
Hike along the Sugar River Trail. Alternatively, New Glarus Woods State Park and Badger State Trail also offer several kid-friendly hikes.
Learn something new together at the National Historic Cheesemaking Center in Monroe. This was one of the best things we did in town!
See the unique collections at the Chalet of the Golden Fleece Museum.

Best Places to Eat in New Glarus with Kids

Two plates with a shared pork schnitzel at Glarner Strube.

Here are our favorite places to eat in (and near) New Glarus with kids:

Glarner Stube offers the best dinner in town! We loved this Swiss-style restaurant so much that we ate there twice.
Fat Cat Coffee Works for an excellent breakfast and coffee. They also have wonderful pastries and hot breakfast options!
New Glarus Bakery is a must-stop for its Swiss-inspired pastries. You have to take them to go, so I recommend taking them to the nearby Village Park.
Sugar River Pizza Co. has an excellent patio when the weather is nice, and great pizza.
Baumgartner's Cheese Store & Tavern in Monroe is Wisconsin's oldest cheese store (it opened in 1931) and an excellent stop for lunch or dinner. It is best known for its Limburger sandwich.

Read more about our favorite spots in this article, A Foodie Parent's Guide to the 9 Best Restaurants in New Glarus with Kids

Best Places to Stay in New Glarus with Kids

Let's talk about kid-friendly accommodations in New Glarus. As one of the best fall destinations in Wisconsin with kids, here's where to stay when you go:

We enjoyed our stay at this Vrbo in nearby Blanchardville (about a 20-minute drive from New Glarus, sleeps 3)
Chalet Landhaus Inn
The Blanc Chalet

Port Washington, Wisconsin

If you're craving a coastal-style getaway without leaving the Midwest, Port Washington, Wisconsin, delivers in spades. Just over 5 hours from Minneapolis, it's one of my favorite weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids. This historic Lake Michigan town mixes charming downtown streets, cozy cafes, and stunning lake views that will have you swooning. We first visited in the summer and loved the walkable marina, sandcastle building, and warm-water swims. But in the fall, Port Washington takes on a whole new magic.

Crisp mornings call for strolling the harbor with coffee in hand. Then, afternoons bring family fun at the lighthouses, mural walks, and themed events like Witches Night Out or Oktoberfest. Add in live music on patios, beautiful lakeside strolls, and cozy breweries for parents, and you've got one of the best fall destinations in the Midwest for families. Port Washington proves that fall trips from Minnesota for families can be equal parts relaxing and exciting.

Best Fall Things to Do in Port Washington with Kids

A man pauses to enjoy a view of the marina from the break-wall path in Port Washington, one of the fall weekend getaways near Minneapolis.

Here are a few of our favorite things to do in Port Washington, Wisconsin, with kids:

Explore downtown Port Washington, Rotary Park, and the marina. Some of the best moments here are just meandering through its beautiful downtown area.
Take a hike together at Lion's Den Nature Preserve. There are many trails to choose from!
Tour the historic Port Washington Light Station. You'll learn local history and enjoy beautiful views of downtown and the marina.
Explore Harrington Beach State Park. Just 15 minutes from downtown, there are tons of trails, great views of Lake Superior, and more waiting for you here!
Check the event calendar for fall festivals, concerts, or farmers' markets.

Read this for more ideas: Exciting 3-Day Summer Itinerary for Port Washington, Wisconsin, with Kids

Best Places to Eat in Port Washington with Kids

A hand holds out a coffee from Java Dock Café.

When you're ready to eat, prepare for epic flavors at one of these local eateries:

Enjoy a memorable dinner at Twisted Willow Restaurant (our favorite restaurant in town).
Delicious, but casual, family-friendly meals can be found at The Beacon Restaurant (breakfast or dinner).
In the heart of downtown, The Steerage Dining Saloon is a homey spot for lunch or dinner (try the Reuben!).
Grab a coffee or breakfast at Java Dock Café. It's super close to downtown and has several tasty options!
Try Big Baby Subs for an easy lunch with your family. They have great sandwich options!

Best Places to Stay in Port Washington with Kids

Looking for the best hotels in Port Washington with kids? Stay here:

Fargo, North Dakota

A dad and his daughter jump like Mario at an outdoor mural in Fargo, one of the fall weekend getaways near Minneapolis.

Under 4 hours from Minneapolis, Fargo is a fall getaway that surprised us in the best way possible! This Midwest gem combines quirky art, unique attractions, and classic family fun, making it one of the best fall destinations in the Midwest for families. We packed our weekend with food, murals, and museums, and Fargo truly delivered.

Kids will love exploring hands-on exhibits at the Red River Zoo. Meanwhile, parents will appreciate Fargo's growing food scene. Fall weekends are delightful here, thanks to pumpkin patches, fall festivals, and the vibrant riverfront parks. And because the city is so compact, it's easy to mix outdoor time with downtown exploring. For us, Fargo struck that perfect balance of adventure and relaxation (exactly what we're always looking for in fall trips from Minnesota for families!).

Best Fall Things to Do in Fargo with Kids

A man and his young daughter look for ocean creatures at the Oceanarium at MSUM.

Here are a few of the best fall things to do in Fargo with kids (perfect for fun fall weekend getaways near Minneapolis!):

Learn about planes and local air heroes at the Fargo Air Museum.
Meander downtown Fargo in search of its many colorful murals. Be sure to stop in a few local shops, too!
Meet the fish and other ocean creatures at the Oceanarium at MSUM (Saturdays only, from 12 pm - 4 pm).
Spend the afternoon exploring Lindenwood Park. You'll find riverside trails, a playground, and more.
Try a local fall farm like Lil’ Bitz Pumpkin Patch or Rheault Farm.

Best Places to Eat in Fargo with Kids

A hand holds out a bagel slathered in cream cheese from Boppa's Bagels.

Grab a meal or two at one of our favorite spots in Fargo. Here's where to start:

The best coffee in downtown Fargo can be found at Twenty Below Coffee Co.
Spend the evening at Brewhalla. There are several kid-friendly eateries inside the brewhall, along with some cute shops.
Have an excellent lunch or dinner at Beer & Fish Company, right in downtown Fargo.
Grab pizza at Rhombus Guys (I recommend the taco pizza!).
Enjoy a homey breakfast at Marge's Diner. It's right downtown, and they offer a kids' menu.
Boppa’s Bagels for some of the best bagels around!

Best Places to Stay in Fargo with Kids

Wondering about the best hotels in Fargo for families? I recommend:

Holiday Inn Fargo by IHG
Best Western Plus Kelly Inn & Suites
Radisson Blu Fargo
Jasper Hotel

Have Fun Exploring These Fantastic Fall Destinations with Your Kids!

Antonia and her young daughter pose together near a scenic fall view near Taylors Falls, one of the best fall weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids.

Vibrant fall colors, MEA, and fall breaks are always great reasons to plan one of the best fall weekend getaways near Minneapolis with kids! From unique Minnesota destinations to some of the best fall trips in Wisconsin with kids, these getaways are perfect for making memories together this fall. Whether you want to embark on family hikes, spend your weekend exploring charming small towns, or just get out of the house for a bit, there is undoubtedly a destination on this list that is picture-perfect for your family! I hope you have a blast exploring some of the best fall destinations in Minnesota and Wisconsin with kids.

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