Top fall fun activities in MN and WI

While summers in the Midwest can be beautiful and energizing, there’s something special about fall in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Experience the best of autumn by taking part in a variety of events hosted across both states. From pumpkin patches to Oktoberfest gatherings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Keep in mind, many 2021 fall festivities are hosted outside or with specific health precautions in place, so that everyone can celebrate the season safely.

1. Attend the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular at the Minnesota Zoo

The Minnesota Zoo is a favorite place for many locals who want to observe and learn about wildlife. Plus, kids of all ages enjoy the zoo! This fall, the Minnesota Zoo is hosting a month-long event known as the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular. This “naturally magical experience” is ticketed, so be sure to reserve your spot in advance.

Date: Oct. 1 – Nov. 7, 2021

Time: View the website for specific times

2. Visit Frankenstein’s Laboratory

Located in Minneapolis, the Bakken Museum hosts a year-round Frankenstein Laboratory Exhibit that is perfect to visit during spooky season. The installation is based on Mary Shelley’s famous novel and includes an immersive theater experience telling the tale of Frankenstein.

Pssst… This event is recommended for children over the age of nine.

Date: Weekly, Tuesday – Sunday

Time: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

3. Celebrate Oktoberfest at Ruttger’s

While Oktoberfest celebrations are hosted at many venues throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin, you won’t want to miss Oktoberfest at Ruttger’s Resort. Situated on Bay Lake, this waterfront festival features traditional German food, entertaining events and an anticipated arts and crafts show.

Date: Oct. 22 – 24, 2021

4. Sign up for a spooky streetcar ride

This year, the Como-Harriet Streetcar Museum is hosting six different fall-themed trolley rides. Some highlighted rides include a Trick ‘r Trolly night where attendants dress up in Halloween costumes and a pumpkin patch ride where each rider receives a pumpkin.

Your streetcar ride is bound to be surrounded by the beauty of the lakes and the autumn colors — plus you’ll learn about Minnesota’s history while celebrating the fall holidays. Sign up for your ride today.

Date: Oct. 16 – 30, 2021

Time: Visit the website for specific times

5. Get tickets to the Duluth Haunted Ship

Every year, the infamous William A. Irvin ship transforms into a haunted boat. To get in the Halloween spirit, walk through the self-guided Duluth Haunted Ship tour, and be prepared for a thrilling scare!

Date: Oct. 7 – 31, 2021

Time: Visit the website for specific times

6. Hop aboard an autumn cruise on the St. Croix River

The St. Croix River Cruises hosts a variety of events departing from Hudson, Wisconsin. This year’s Fall Color Cruise showcases the breathtaking seasonal colors along the river.

And, make sure to save the date for the one-time Oktoberfest Cruise where authentic German food, beer and a HammerSchlagen contest will be enjoyed.

Date: Select Saturdays and Sundays throughout fall

Time: Visit the website for Fall Color Cruise times and Oktoberfest Cruise details

7. Visit the Sever’s Fall Festival

Head over to Shakespeare, Minnesota to solve this year’s Sever’s Corn Maze and stay for the entire Fall Festival. In addition to the maze, this year’s event features a corn pit, pumpkin patch, antique tractors, live music, food and more!

Date: Weekly, Friday – Sunday from Sept. 10 – Oct. 31, 2021, plus Thursday, Oct. 21 as part of MEA weekend

Time: Visit the website for specific times

8. Pick an apple or pumpkin at Ferguson’s Orchard

Ferguson’s Orchard prides itself in being the epicenter of fall family fun in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Whether you plan to go home and cook apple pie or carve a jack-o-lantern, you’ll find the best fall produce at Ferguson’s. Not to mention, the orchard experience includes wagon rides, lawn games and pedal tractors, too.

Date: Aug. 21, 2021 – TBD

Time: Visit the website for specific times

9. Join the Voices from the Past Cemetery Walk in Winona

The Voices from the Past Cemetery Walk in Winona, Minnesota shares local history while channeling the energy of spooky season. Visitors can roam various sites throughout the cemetery to learn more about Winona’s past and this year’s theme, Scoundrels, Scandals and Skulduggery II.

Date: Oct. 9 and 10, 2021

Time: Noon – 5 p.m.

10. Go on a Trick-or-Treat Candy Walk

One of many cities to organize trick-or-treating events, Park Rapids is hosting its very own Candy Walk. This event safely hands out treat bags and other goodies to kids dressed up in Halloween costumes. Check out the Candy Walk on Park Rapids’ Main Street or search for a similar event in your community.

Date: Oct. 31, 2021

Time: 3 – 5 p.m.

What are you in the market for this fall?

If you’re in the market for more than the best pumpkin in the patch, it could be time to start your home search. Moving forward, reach out to Edina Realty or your agent. From there, you’ll be on your way to a successful home sale or purchase.