Fall Colors in Minneapolis–Saint Paul, MN 2024

The Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul are lucky to be surrounded by the diverse nature of Minnesota with its lakes, the mighty Mississippi River, and lush forests. When the autumn season arrives in the state, the area explodes with colors.

Fall Colors Peak in Minneapolis

Fall foliage season comes to Minneapolis quite early. The leaves begin to change color in mid-September. This magical time lasts until the end of October. During this period, the daytime temperature is between 73 °F (23 °C) and 59 °F (15 °C), so you can spend plenty of time outside.

Best Places to See Fall Colors in Minneapolis

Theodore Wirth Regional Park

Theodore Wirth Regional Park stands as one of the largest parks in the Minneapolis area, offering an impressive expanse with 22 lakes, 12 gardens, and over 102 miles (164 km) of bike trails. The park also features opportunities for golf and water sports, making it a perfect destination to spend a full day enjoying diverse activities amid stunning autumn landscapes.

Just minutes from downtown Minneapolis, the Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary is a hidden gem within Theodore Wirth Regional Park. Home to approximately 500 plant species and 130 bird species, this serene sanctuary attracts around 60,000 visitors each year. Despite its proximity to the vibrant city, stepping onto the self-guided path transports you to a tranquil wooded haven.

Minnehaha Regional Park

Minnehaha Park, one of Minneapolis' oldest and most cherished parks, offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and draws over 850,000 visitors each year. Situated at the crossroads of Hiawatha Avenue and Minnehaha Parkway, this 193-acre park is renowned for its 53-foot waterfall, limestone bluffs, and scenic river overlooks. The park is home to a diverse array of trees, including oak, elm, silver maple, basswood, hackberry, and cottonwood, as well as native and prairie woodland wildflowers.

Fall Colors Near Minneapolis

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

Established in 1958, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum spans 1,200 acres in Chaska, Minnesota, and welcomes over 600,000 visitors annually. Renowned for its stunning display gardens, nationally acclaimed tree collections, and protected natural areas, the Arboretum is easily navigated via paved paths that remain open throughout the year. Over the years, the Arboretum has expanded significantly, now featuring 28 specialty gardens, 44 plant collections, more than 150 permanent art installations, a dedicated team of 200 staff members, and a remarkable variety of 5,900 unique species, cultivars, and hybrids.

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge

The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge is a vibrant urban sanctuary where nature seamlessly links people, communities, and wildlife. With over 45 miles of trails available for hiking, biking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, the area offers adventures suitable for all experience levels. As you explore, you'll encounter the expansive Minnesota River Valley and tranquil, wildlife-rich areas. Visitors can also enjoy fishing in the park's ponds, lakes, and the Minnesota River. If you're seeking to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the outdoors, this refuge is the perfect destination.

Fall Colors of The Twin Cities From The Water

The most popular activity during the golden season is boating near Minneapolis. Many tours start from Harriet Island in St. Paul and offer rides on the glorious Mississippi. During such a tour, you can see several landmarks like Pig's Eye Cave, St. Paul High Bridge, and Pike Island. In addition to Mississippi, there are lakes around Minneapolis that offer perfect reflections of the colorful slopes. Stop by Lake Minnetonka or Minneapolis Chain of Lakes, which includes Cedar Lake, Brownie Lake, Bde Maka Ska, Lake of the Isles, and Lake Harriet. Whatever place you choose, autumn in the Twin Cities looks stunning from the water.