Why Fall is the Best Season in Minnesota
Living in Southern Minnesota is great, any time of the year, but fall is one of my favorites. From local events and beautiful scenery to new sports and back-to-school excitement, autumn is truly special. Let’s talk about some of the best parts!
Enjoying Outdoor Time this Fall
Part of what makes a Minnesota fall unmissable is our wonderful outdoor activities. Even as boating, swimming, and tent camping start to wind down, there is no reason to miss out on the beautiful bounty of the season. Families love fall festivals, breathtaking trees, and going for walks in the great outdoors.
A Rainbow of Foliage
Let’s start with one of the best signs of the fall season: Our changing leaves! As the days grow shorter, we may have less sunlight, but the bright hues of autumn trees make up for it. Raking those piles might not sound fun to every homeowner, but jumping in them sure is.
Check out our local parks in Minnesota for some wonderful hiking trails to take in the colors of fall. Many families also make it a fall tradition to take a drive through some back roads and enjoy the colors!
Apple Picking, Anyone?
If driving around to check out the leaves isn’t exciting enough, perhaps the thought of warm apple pie, apple butter, or yummy sliced apples in caramel might win you over. Minnesota boasts a number of orchards where you can even pick-your-own. Welsh Heritage Farms is one nearby spot you can check out with your family, this year.
For those that want the hard work done for you, our farmers’ markets, local grocers, and even roadside stands will start to feature fall’s favorite snack.
Gather Around the Fire
Bonfires are another wonderful fall tradition in Minnesota. Whether you have a small fire ring in your backyard, or attend a massive celebration, keeping warm by the fire is a great way to enjoy the season. Temperatures may be dropping, but a toasty flame can keep the outdoor fun going!
Wouldn’t you agree that food we make at the campfire somehow tastes even better?
Ready for Some Football?
We might be a hockey family, but football comes in a close second. Are you a Gopher fan or a Minnesota Vikings fan? Or both? Fall is certainly the time for football!
Even if this isn’t “your sport” (is it time for hockey yet?), the opportunity to tailgate is a great excuse to gather with friends, families, and fans! You don’t have to be in a parking lot, or even use a vehicle, for that matter. Host your own gathering indoors or outdoors, right at your own home!
If the touchdowns and halftimes don’t hold your interest, yummy snacks and treats might! Football often comes hand-in-hand with delicious dips, snacks, wings, and beverages.
Raise a Glass to Fall!
Last, but certainly not least, is the yummy flavors of fall beverages. Whether you crave hot apple cider, a crisp autumn brew, or locally made wines, you’re in luck during a Minnesota fall. Our state’s breweries are busy creating amazing new beers and spiked ciders. Have you tried any fall flavors, with notes of pumpkin, apple, cinnamon, or ginger? The cooler weather also makes heavier meads, IPAs, and German hefeweizens seem all the more craveable.
What did I miss? What else do you love about fall in Southern Minnesota? Leave me a comment over on Facebook! Enjoy the season!
