Between Minnesota’s hot, humid summers and infamously cold winters you will find the absolute best time to explore the Twin Cities region – the gorgeous fall season! Beautifully complementing the comfortably mild weather are the iconic fall colors that spread across the tree canopies and evening skies before your very eyes. Exploring the Twin Cities during this time will undoubtedly open your eyes to the true beauty of the local landscape. You can take a number of fun and adventurous approaches to your explorations by trying out any, or all, of the five options below.
1. Picnic in the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
You can head over to the landscape arboretum to picnic amongst breathtaking trees and flowers. The late blooming flower varieties perfectly complement the tree leaves as they turn from rich green to fiery red. Before you head out, check for public events and exhibits that can enrich your visit and help you create lasting memories. As you travel through the park, walk softly to spot the local wildlife, including colorful hummingbirds, enjoying the flowering plants along either side of the trails.
2. Take City Park Bike Rides
Rent a bicycle and take a tour through the city parks to see the local landscape in all its glory. On your ride, make sure to stop by the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden to see outdoor sculptures paired with thriving plant life. While passing through the conservatory, look up to take in the climbing vines, including the iconic creeping fig, which wind their way up and over the structure. Ride up to the riverside next to explore Boom Island Park’s vegetation-rich landscape. The park space perfectly depicts the traditional landscape that runs along the waterways in this region.
3. Walk Along the River Flats
A walk along the river flats gives you a chance to really take your time in enjoying the beautiful fall colors sweeping across your field of view. The flats offer the unique opportunity to gaze upon the river as you stand upon the limestone bluffs. At the lowest point in the park, you can walk along the sandy shoreline of the river and view its entire expanse to the tree-lined shores across the waters. Lying in the open fields during the sunset allows you to watch as the skyline bursts into colorful arrays, creating the perfect backdrop for the leaves fluttering above you.
4. Kayak the Chain of Lakes
The Chain of Lakes consists of seven distinct waterways all centrally located in the heart of Minneapolis. Although the land around the lakes is protected parkland open to the public, the best way to experience the waterway and landscape views is by kayak. You can take your own kayak or rent one from the shop on the shores of Lake Calhoun. From there, you can explore the lakes at your leisure, even stopping for a picnic on your shore of choice.
5. Relax with Paradise Charter Cruises
For true relaxation and a whole lot of adventure, experience the fall colors while lounging on the docks of a gorgeous cruise ship or private charter from Paradise Charter Cruises. As you depart from the port on Lake Minnetonka, you can wave your troubles goodbye and simply enjoy gazing upon the world around you. The trip will take you across the waters to view the diverse landscapes you see along the horizon. While you relax, you can enjoy hot meals, cold drinks and great fun with your friends and family.
Upon experiencing the beauty of the Twin Cities region, you may eagerly look forward to waving goodbye to the Minnesota summers each year. Luckily, you do not have to wait for the fall to return to resume your adventures. You can repeat your experience on the cruise lines year-round to take in the natural landscape through every season. Plan your next cruise by contacting the Paradise Charter Cruises event planners at 952-474-8058 to book your spot for a public cruise or private charter experience.