2024 Fall fun activities in Minnesota and Wisconsin

Key Insights

• Minnesota and Wisconsin offer a variety of fun fall activities to get you in the spirit.
• Fan-favorite annual events like the Minnesota Zoo’s Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular are back for 2024.
• Get your tickets early and plan ahead—many events sell out!

Fall in Minnesota and Wisconsin is undeniably special. Be sure to enjoy the vibrant colors, crisp air and seasonal events by taking part in the variety of activities hosted across both states. From evening events on haunted ships to days spent at orchards with apple picking and hard cider, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

1. Visit the Minnesota Zoo for the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular

While the Minnesota Zoo is a favorite place for those who want to observe and learn about wildlife, this season it also features thousands of enchanting carved pumpkins at the month-long Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular. This “naturally magical experience” is ticketed, so be sure to reserve your spot in advance.

Date: Sept. 28 – Nov. 2, 2024

Time: View the website for <href="#tickets">specific times

2. Check out the MN Landscape Arboretum’s Scarecrows in the Gardens

The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum gets extra festive this time of the year. Visit their event, Scarecrows in the Gardens, for an interesting twist on an area favorite. Expert gardeners and artists share their knack for displaying autumnal plants and scarecrows.

Plus, you can enjoy the typical Arboretum amenities, like the shop and eatery, to complete your visit to this seasonal event.

Date: Sept. 14 – Oct. 31, 2024

Time: View the website for specific times

3. Experience Tricks and Treats at Valleyfair

Get ready to enjoy the exhilarating rides of Valleyfair with a seasonal twist. Tricks and Treats is a double event featuring both spooky Halloween festivities and nostalgic fall attractions.

Everything from live music, haunted stories, sweet treats and 21+ brews will be featured at Tricks and Treats. And, don’t forget to wear your Halloween costume! Event-goers are encouraged to dress for the holiday.

Date: Saturdays and Sundays, Sept. 28 – Oct. 27, 2024

Time: Saturdays 11 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.; Sundays 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Looking for something a bit more…terrifying? Consider the park’s ValleyScare event for more intense thrills (parental discretion advised). Open select Fridays and Saturdays Sept. 21 – Oct. 26.

4. Sign up for a spooky streetcar ride

The Como-Harriet Streetcar Museum is hosting eight different fall-themed trolley rides to celebrate the beauty of the lakes and Minnesota’s history – all while getting festive. This year’s rides include a Trick ‘r Trolley ride, Transylvania Trolley night and so much more! Remember to wear your Halloween costume in exchange for a Halloween treat.

Date: Oct. 12 – 31, 2024

Time: Visit the website for specific times

5. Get tickets to the Duluth Haunted Ship

The historic and infamous William A. Irvin Ship transforms into a haunted boat every fall. Book your Duluth Haunted Ship tour to get in the Halloween spirit – and for a promised “real scare.”

Date: Oct. 3 – 31, 2024

Time: Visit the website for specific times

6. Celebrate Oktoberfest in New Ulm

For two entire weekends in October, New Ulm is filled with German cuisine, live music and craft shows for their very own Oktoberfest. This Oktoberfest is inspired by one of Germany’s largest celebrations, making it extra festive for attendees.

Date: Oct. 4 – 5 and 11 – 12, 2024

Time: Visit the website for specific times

7. Visit the Sever’s Fall Festival

Head over to Shakopee, Minnesota to solve the Sever’s Corn Maze. This hand-cut corn maze has been around since 1997, but features a new design each year. In addition to the maze, check out the Fall Festival events like the corn pit, pumpkin patch, petting zoo, food and live music!

Date: Saturday and Sundays from Sept. 14 – Oct. 27, 2024, plus Thursday and Friday, Oct. 17 – 18 as part of MEA weekend

Time: Visit the website for specific times

8. Book a farm tour at Eagle Eye Farm

Hoping to spend extra time outside this fall? Plan a visit to Eagle Eye Farm in River Falls, Wisconsin where you can experience unique events like farm tours and alpaca yoga while enjoying the fall weather.

Both public and private tours are available, so be sure to check the website to book a ticket for the event that best suits you.

Date: Daily

Time: Visit the website for specific times

9. Explore the Fall Color Finder in MN state parks

Make a plan to adventure on your own fall color tour. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources provides an interactive Fall Color Finder tool that allows outdoor enthusiasts to discover where fall colors are the brightest. This activity is fun for everyone! Plus, you can customize your tour to fit any day and time within your fall calendar.

Find more information on Minnesota State Parks, including hours and guidelines, here.

Date: Daily

Time: At your leisure

10. Pick apples and drink cider at Ferguson’s Orchards

Visitors of all ages are bound to enjoy the fall festivities at any of the four Ferguson's Orchards across Minnesota and Wisconsin. Guests can mine for gems, jump in the corn pit, go for a wagon ride and, of course, pick apples! After a fun-filled day at the orchard, fill up on refreshments and delicious goodies like classic apple cider, hard cider, pizza and seasonal baked goods.

Date: Daily

Time: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

11. Great Pumpkin Chase at Lake Elmo Park Reserve

Get ready for some outdoor family fun! Take the scenic trails through beautiful Lake Elmo Park Reserve and enjoy the fall foliage during the Great Pumpkin Chase. With options for a 15k, 10k, 5k and half-mile kid fun run, there’s a race for every fitness level. Not a runner? you can still join in for the post-race bonfire and pancake breakfast.

Date: Sunday, Oct. 20, 2024

Time: Park opens and registration begins at 7:30 a.m.

12. Stillwater Harvest Fest

Known as the Midwest’s premier giant pumpkin festival, this weekend's event holds markets, competitions, races and plenty of pumpkins. Join for the pumpkin regatta, pumpkin drop, chili cookoff and kids activities, or take your time perusing vendors and enjoying the beer and wine garden. Admission is free and a shuttle service is available at several locations.

Date: Oct. 12 – 13, 2024

Time: Visit the website for specific event times

13. Saint Paul tours

Take a 90-minute walking tour of Saint Paul! Choose between exploring the mysteries of the Union Depot with Ghost Tours, and learning the haunted history of Summit Avenue with the Ghosts and Gables walking tour. Can’t choose? Both tours have a variety of dates and times throughout October for you to do both!

Date: Throughout October

Time: Visit the website for specific event times

Check out the fall housing market

Whether you’re hoping to buy or sell a home this fall, be sure to reach out to Edina Realty or your agent. By moving forward with a trusted Realtor, you’ll be on your way to a successful home sale or purchase this season.