Morning

Minnehaha Falls is an awe-inspiring Minneapolis attraction and an ideal place to start your fall weekend itinerary. The 53-foot waterfall draws more than 850,000 people a year, but fall is an especially spectacular time to visit as the surrounding deciduous trees transition to lovely hues of gold. Get a bird’s-eye view of the urban waterfall from the top or descend down the stone steps into the gorge to see where the water leads (eventually into the mighty Mississippi), dipping your feet in along the way.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon admiring colorful leaves from a new vantage point — the Mississippi River. Fall sightseeing cruises on Padelford Riverboats depart from Harriet Island in Saint Paul and include a narrated tour of local landmarks like the Saint Paul High Bridge, Pig’s Eye Cave and the Minnesota River Mouth. You’ll enjoy colorful fall foliage along the way, as well as panoramic views of the Saint Paul skyline. Snacks and beverages are available for purchase from the onboard snack bar.

Evening

After a full day of sightseeing, relax with some local sips and eats. Minneapolis Cider Company in the Marcy Holmes neighborhood serves craft ciders made on-site from freshly pressed apples, as well as non-alcoholic beverages and sweet and savory crepes. There’s also an indoor pickleball court where you can enjoy a friendly game. Another family-friendly option is the taproom at Indeed Brewing in Northeast Minneapolis, with a tap list that includes seasonal fall brews, plus snacks and pizza. Finish the evening with scoops from Milkjam Creamery in Uptown Minneapolis, which specializes in creative, offbeat seasonal flavors.

Morning

Up for a challenge? Navigate your way through Minnesota’s largest corn maze at the Twin Cities Harvest Festival and Maze in Brooklyn Park. Each year, there’s a new theme, with an accompanying trivia challenge along the route. The festival also features live music, hayrides, a giant corn pit where you can jump and swim through golden kernels, and kid-friendly activities like pony rides, inflatables and an exotic petting zoo. On chilly mornings, warm up with a cup of hot chocolate and mini doughnuts.

Afternoon

Next, head to Westwood Hills Nature Center in St. Louis Park where there are over three miles of trails across the park’s 160-acre area that includes marsh, woods and restored prairie. There’s also a lake with a floating boardwalk and a water garden with native plants and waterfalls. Kids will love the brand-new Interpretive Center, which has interactive exhibits and live animals like a flying squirrel, red-tailed hawk and barred owl.

Evening

End the day with a trip to Boom Island Park. Situated along the Mississippi River, the park has picturesque views of the river and the Minneapolis skyline, as well as plenty of opportunities for fall leaf peeping. Bring a picnic breakfast and take a leisurely stroll, or rent bicycles to explore the trails on two wheels.

For something a little more off the beaten path, venture to Pine Bend Bluffs Scientific and Natural Area in Inver Grove Heights. This hidden gem boasts 256 acres of largely undisturbed land. Hike the many trails with a camera to capture the breathtaking Mississippi River bluff vistas. Pine Bend Bluffs is also a haven for birders. It has been designated as an Audubon Important Bird Area, where visitors can spot more than 100 species, including red-tailed hawk and great blue heron.

Morning

Start your day with a bike ride in Lakeville — with over 130 miles of paved trails, there are routes for cyclists of all abilities. For a low-key ride, check out the six-mile loop at Ritter Farm Park, which encompasses natural prairie grass and woodland habitats. If you’re rolling with a more experienced cycling crew, you’ll all love the West Lake Marion Park Mountain Bike Trail, featuring five miles of switchbacks, berms and rollers. Lakeville’s extensive trail system includes greenways that connect to the historic downtown, where you can grab a bite to eat.

Afternoon

Celebrate the start of football season by learning all about the local team at the Vikings Museum in Eagan. The museum features exhibits about the evolution of the team’s logo and uniforms, the various stadiums and training camps that have been home to the Vikings over the years and the accomplishments of notable players and coaches. Interactive features include game-day audio and a touchscreen display with famous plays.

Evening

Wrap up your fall weekend getaway with a visit to the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge in Bloomington. This 14,000-acre refuge offers 46 miles of trails along the Minnesota River, with striking views of colorful fall leaves reflected in the water. You might spot wildlife, including deer, river otters and more than 200 species of birds. There’s also a nature play area for kids at the Old Cedar Avenue Bridge Trailhead.