As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin their annual transformation, the Twin Cities region becomes a showcase of autumn beauty. Whether you're looking to get out for a calming environment, long weekend drives, or simply savor the season in your own backyard, here are some of the best places to experience fall color around the Minneapolis –St. Paul area — with a few festive stops to make it even more memorable.
Hint: Check the DNRs fall color map here to track the leaves changing throughout the state and where to find the best colors today.
Close to Home
Local Strolls & Easy Drives
These spots are perfect for a quick outing to get some fresh air and beautiful scenery.
Theodore Wirth Regional Park in Minneapolis & Golden Valley
This large park on the western edge of Minneapolis offers forested trails, hills, and scenic overlooks where the fall colors come alive. In fact, it is the largest park in the Minneapolis park system at over 740 acres of land enjoyable throughout the seasons for many activities including cross country skiing in the winter. The mix of maples, birch and other hardwoods provide vibrant reds, golds and oranges framed against the city backdrop.
Real Estate Tip: Theodore Wirth provides a sense of “nature within reach” for buyers who want a huge expanse of green space nearby.
Mississippi River Gorge Regional Park / Grand Rounds in Minneapolis
For a path or drive along scenic river bluffs, the Gorge offers dramatic fall views and easy access from the metro.
The gorge was formed as St. Anthony Falls migrated slowly upriver, eroding a steep channel as water broke up the limestone cap that covers the area cut away from the soft sandstone underneath (David C. Smith).
The trail system and river-parkway route give a nice combination of nature and accessibility. At about 132 acres in size, the gorge provides habitat for at least 150 species of migratory birds.
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chanhassen / Chaska - Minneapolis Suburbs
Just a short drive west of the metro, this beautifully maintained arboretum offers curated tree collections, miles of trails, fragrant gardens and broad vistas of autumn colors. With various activities and rotating installations, a full day can easily be spent exploring the areas of the Arboretum. Nearby, the Arboretum's AppleHouse is a seasonal destination, featuring Minnesota-grown apples, including varieties grown at the Arboretum’s Horticultural Research Center nearby.
2025 Schedule:
Tuesday-Sunday visitors can also enjoy fresh donuts, coffee and cider from North Star Donuts open through Oct. 31.
Beginning on Nov. 6, the AppleHouse will be transformed into a Holiday Boutique. We will still offer a variety of fresh apples and gourmet foods items along with a wide range of gift giving items and holiday decor.
Scenic Drives & Day-Trip Escape Routes
These drives take you a little further out, but reward the effort with memorable views and a sense of adventure.
St. Croix Scenic Byway and Taylors Falls (along the St Croix River, east of the metro)
This route, just a short drive from the Twin Cities, is noted for its vibrant fall foliage and river-valley views. Late afternoon, or 'golden hour' really amplifies the beauty.
The St. Croix Scenic Byway follows a route established in 1855 between Point Douglas, Minnesota and Superior, Wisconsin. Although intended as a highway for troop movement, the road quickly attracted a flood of civilian and commercial traffic. The 124 mile Byway route passes through three Minnesota counties: Washington, Chisago and Pine. Today, the cities along the route offer visitors unbeatable scenery, a range of activities and a variety of businesses to explore (Explore the Byway)
Suggestion: Combine the drive with a stop in the charming town of Taylors Falls and a walk in the hills or at Interstate State Park on either the Minnesota or Wisconsin sides!
Great River Road / Mississippi River Valley (Southeast MN)
Named 2025's Best Scenic Drive in the US, the Great River Road follows the course of the Mississippi River for 3,000 miles from Minnesota to the Gulf Coast, passing through 10 states and hundreds of river towns. It's one of the longest scenic byways in the country. Just hop on the most convenient-to-us section and enjoy for as long as you'd like to spend on the road.
Visit this link for a closer look at the Minnesota section.
Real Estate Tip: If you're exploring the area for a second-home or moving further out, this drive shows the beauty of Minnesota’s countryside and how accessible it remains from the Cities.
North Shore Scenic Drive (Lake Superior)
The perfect weekend trip: the North Shore Scenic drives takes you from Canal Park in Duluth, MN, along the shore, through the burgs and woodlands, to the international border at Grand Portage.
The fall colors peak early here - so make sure to plan your trip accordingly if you're only in it for the hues. Remember our North Shore has so much more to offer from adventures on the lake shores, to mountain hikes and more.
Closing Thoughts
Fall in Minnesota is fleeting — and gorgeous. Here’s to crisp air, golden leaves, cozy cafés and the kind of moments that remind us why Minneapolis and its suburbs are a place to experience year-round beauty.
