There’s something truly special about fall in Minnesota. Whether you're new to the area and haven't experienced fall in Minnesota, or you're just looking for some new ways to enjoy this short but sweet season, try some--or all!--of the activities on this list. You'll be glad you did!
Take in the Fall Colors with a Hike or Walk
Visit parks in the Rochester area to take in the crisp fall air, hear the crunch of leaves under your feet, and see all the vibrant colors of autumn. Go for a hike at Quarry Hill, Chester Woods, or Root River. Take a stroll around Silver Lake or Cascade Lake or play in the leaves at one of Rochester's dozens of neighborhood parks.
Quarry Hill Park | AB-Photography.US
Take an Autumn Adventure on Wheels
Explore the miles of paved bike trails throughout Rochester or head out of town on the Douglas Trail. Check out some of the best Bike Rides in Rochester, MN for ideas. Or, for a different kind of adventure, take a ride on the Trolley! The Trolley tours run through the fall, with special haunted tours in October.
Apples, Apples, and MORE Apples!
We might be a little biased, but we're sure that Minnesota has the best apples! Don't believe us? Try for yourself! Check out one of the area's apple orchards and try a few varieties. Buy a larger bag and try making applesauce or baking a pie. Bring home a jug of apple cider to sip during the cool evenings. Most apple orchards offer other family-friendly activities as well, such as hayrides, mazes, pick-your-own apples, and more. And while you're there, don't forget to pick up pumpkins and mums for your front step!
Spooky Fun
Halloween-themed fun is on throughout the month of October. Take the Haunted History Trolley Tours, aboard the “Trolley of Doom.” Your Ghost Host will tell you all about the paranormal activity, plus a mini-investigation, on the tour. For other hair-raising fun, you won’t want to miss the Creepy Dolls exhibit at the History Center of Olmsted County, which runs throughout the month of October. The Creepy Dolls: Loose in the Vaults Opening Reception on October 10 is an annual 21+ only event featuring specialty cocktails and a preview of all the creepy dolls entered in this year’s creepy doll contest.
Visit a Fall Festival and Attend Other Fall Events
Fall festivals are a great way to pack a season of fun into a few short hours. Fall Fest is happening on October 16 at the History Center. Experience autumn with pumpkin decorating, crafts, wagon rides, and so much more.
Mayo Civic Center’s fall lineup has something for everyone. Blippi (Oct. 11) and iLuminate (Oct. 28) are great family-friendly options. If you like country music, you won’t want to miss Randy Travis’ More Life Tour on November 6 and Dustin Lynch and Scotty McCreery’s Two for the Road Tour in Rochester on November 8. Check out the full lineup of great live entertainment at Mayo Civic Center here.
Celebrate Oktoberfest at one of many area festivals, including a new event in downtown Rochester: Oktoberfest presented by DBS Group.
Rochester’s outdoor Farmers Markets run through October. Stock up on seasonal produce and goods on Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at Graham Park or along Discovery Walk on Wednesdays from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
However you experience fall this year, make it a great one!