Wander Minnesota: Fall Foliage And Fun
The DNR is reporting that fall colors have begun to pop, mostly up north as of this writing. The gorgeous fall foliage season is all too short. Now is the time to plan a little getaway to enjoy them before winter sets in. Here are a few suggestions for lodgings that are open past the summer tourist season.
Near the Brainerd lakes area is Madden's, which has several specials for weekends in October (including MEA weekend). Ruttger's is open through October and has a variety of fall specials, some involving discounted accommodation rates and others involving free golf. Nearby Grandview Lodge is open year-round, but also has some special discounts for the fall.
If you're looking for a wide variety of autumn activities, Gunflint Lodge on the Gunflint Trail outside of Grand Marais is waiting for you. Smallmouth bass fishing is available through October, as is the Towering Pines Canopy Tour (reservations strongly recommended) which will have you ziplining above the trees. And: Moose calling!
In Two Harbors, Grand Superior Lodge has a number of specials for leaf-peepers, as well as empty nesters and fans of the gales of November.
Near Alexandria, you could book a bed and breakfast accommodation at Spirit Cove Lodge, which offers some autumn discounts and is located near Carlos Creek Winery, which holds its annual Apple Festival on Oct. 17. Spirit Cove is just ½ mile from the Central Lakes Trail, offering plenty of biking or running opportunities.
Maybe you'd rather head south and spend some time along a river. Stillwater's Ann Bean Mansion is a cozy Victorian bed and breakfast with monthly specials based on the length or days of the week of your stay. (The specials may involve chocolate—not a bad deal.)
Near Red Wing, the Hungry Point Inn has several listings of amenities and additions to spice up your stay, including a discount for guests who attend the nearby Sheldon Theatre.
The Windom Park Bed and Breakfast in Winona will customize a package for your stay, giving you the options not only of room types, but of restaurant and various activities, including theater, museums, golf, or winery tour.
Or you could take a trip to the "bed and breakfast capital of the world"—Lanesboro—and book a stay at the beautiful Berwood Hill Inn, located just outside of Lanesboro on a hill overlooking the town and the valley. Berwood Hill offers a number of customizable options, including in-room massage and candlelight dinners.
What else is happening in our state? Be sure to check out the 10 p.m. Sunday night WCCO newscasts, where you can learn more in the weekly segment, Finding Minnesota.
