Fall in Minnesota
For some of us, it’s our favorite season, changing colors, pumpkins spice lattes, cozy sweaters and beanies. For others, we dread this time of year because it has us thinking about shorter days, dropping temperatures and dragging out that dreaded snow shovel. Whether you count down to the changing Starbucks menu or to the first day of Spring, we are sharing how you can embrace all Fall has to offer in our Land of Ten Thousand Lakes.
1. State Parks
There are 75 Minnesota State Parks and Recreation areas dispersed all across Minnesota full of lakes, trails, campsites and foliage. From the shores of Lake Superior, to the bluffs in Red Wing, there are options for everyone to explore the landscape of our state. If you are looking for a hike of any type, the Superior Hiking spans over 300 miles from Duluth to the Canadian Border. You can choose a portion of the trail or one that spurs off of it depending on your preferences. Changing colors, lakes, rivers and wildlife are up for the viewing across the hundreds of trailheads. Many small towns line the way with food, coffee, local attractions and more. If you’re looking for a perfect latte in the woods, Cedar Coffee Co. in Two Harbors is a must stop en route. If hiking isn’t your thing, but winding through a wooded terrain on two wheels sounds more enticing, Cuyuna Mountain Bike Trails in Crow Wing County is a great spot to stay and adventure. They have a campground on site, a resort neighboring and cabins dispersed. If you’re still reading and more interested in a leisure trek, check out these various drive routes and the fall color finder guide to experience the fall landscape at a much faster pace in the comfort of your vehicle. No matter your mode of transportation or activity interest, the state of Minnesota offers many unique avenues to explore the varying landscape and embrace the changing season.
2. Keep it Local
If you are looking for more of a hands on adventure or experience, where the whole family is involved, we suggest a trip to one of the many fruit orchards or pumpkin patches. It is a great opportunity to get dressed in your best fall flannel, grab a camera or smartphone of course, and snap a few candid photos. For those located in the metro area, we have included a list of the 9 Best Apple Orchards around Minneapolis/St. Paul. If you’re really feeling adventurous, check out Minnesota’s Largest Corn Maze which includes free admission for all, a pick-your-own pumpkin patch and a corn pit. We recognize all that activity would make anyone hungry so we want to make sure we share one of our favorite fall dinner traditions. Red Barn Farm located in Northfield, MN serves homemade pizzas with all toppings sourced directly from their farm or nearby local farmers. You can reserve a picnic table or bring your own chairs/blankets. Our favorite part is the BYO beverages. Just be sure to take out what you bring in. How cool is that?!
3. Chef It Up
Now that you have visited the apple orchard, you are going to need something to do with all the fresh apples. Or maybe you want to create your own backyard, homemade pizza farm. As the temps start to dip, we crave warm, nourishing food. We like to use this time to try out new recipes and if it turns out (fingers crossed) share with a friend or neighbor. We have a list of our go-to favorite food gurus, like Fit Foodie Finds who has a sprawling page of all things fall from meal prep ideas, to delicious desserts. Another local favorite, Nourish Move Love has a mouth watering compilation of slow cooker recipes for easy, efficient meal prep. If you are looking for more kid friendly recipes and ideas check out, The Everymom. She has a great list of fun treats and tips for cooking with children of all ages.
4. Sip Local
Now that we have discussed all things adventure, activity and food, don’t think we could pass up on the robust list of Minnesota crafted beverages. There is an extensive repertoire of local breweries, wineries, distilleries and cideries around the state. We have compiled some of our favorite resources that showcase all of these local marvels. The Map of Minnesota Wineries highlights every registered winery across the state of Minnesota. Or if you are looking for a variety to please a group, The Land of 10,000 Drinks Map has every brewery, winery, distillery and cidery listed by color and icon. Whether you are interested in touring a venue, a scheduled tasting or sharing a glass with a friend, there are hundreds of options no matter where you are located. Remember shopping local is a great way to snag party favors and host gifts as we head into the holidays.
5. Vote
In case you missed it, it is an election year, and election day is November 3rd, 2020. We strongly encourage you to put this on your list of activities to participate in this fall if it’s not already. We are going to share some details on how to make the experience as seamless as possible for you. Whether it is your first time to the polls or you have acted on your civic duties for years, we acknowledge the privilege we have to live in a society where we are able to cast our vote. Before you can vote, make sure you are registered in the state you live in at the address you currently reside. You can check if your registration is accurate here or if you are not registered click here to complete it online.
If you are opting to mail in your ballot, you have most likely requested and received your ballot. Deadlines for absentee ballots are listed below.
Request: Received by Nov. 2
Return by mail: Postmarked by Nov. 3
Return in person: Nov. 3 by 3:00 p.m.
If you are voting in person, and want to eliminate the longer lines and wait times there are early voting dates ranging from Sep. 18 – Nov. 2, but dates and hours may vary based on where you live. Be sure to check your polling location on exact dates and times after you have completed your registration. Lastly, make sure you are educated on the individuals listed on your ballot. There are multiple positions being filled ranging from State representatives, judges, city mayors and of course the President of the United States. Make it your mission to be as educated and informed as you are able. This is a great resource where you can enter your zip code and see who will be on your ballot and what they are running on. Let’s do this!
We know times are different this year and season change can bring on a whole new host of feelings. Use this as an opportunity to try something you haven’t before. Find different ways to catch up and stay in touch with friends and family. Enjoy the changing colors, crisp mornings and clear evenings. As Minnesotans, we know more than anyone how to embrace the changing seasons. Let’s take a little extra time to enjoy this one! Happy Fall Ya’ll.
Amy + Jkath Team
Interested in connecting about your home renovation?
Some recent projects from our team we think you might like:
Keep up with our latest inspiration by following us on Pinterest and Instagram.
#Minnesota #fall #travel #northshore #shoplocal #minnesotalife #capturemn #cabinlife #upnorth #vote #exploreminnesota