Minnesota is perhaps the most pleasurable to the eyes in the fall. After the swelter of summer and just before the boundless white of winter, fall brings out the pleasing wonders of the midwest this time of year. The temperature drops to sweater weather, the harvest season brings out pumpkin-flavored everything, and the trees start to turn a wealth of warm colors. You can see it all around you but there are a few spots around Minnesota that are of particular beauty. Here are a few spots to take in the gorgeous fall colors.
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
3675 Arboretum Dr, Chaska, MN 55318
When it comes to the alluring nature of, well, nature, there’s no better place to take in all manner of plant wonder than that of the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. This 1,200-acre area has just about everything: gardens, flowers, ponds, trees, sculptures, swamps, hedges, and a 3-mile hiking trail. The Arboretum is an eye-pleasing place any time of year but there’s more than enough foliage to take in here during the Fall season.
Westwood Hills Nature Center
8300 W Franklin Ave, St Louis Park, MN 55426
Nestled within St. Louis Park is the cozy little nature center of Westwood Hills. There are plenty of trails to traverse along its lake that is known for many sightings of geese and ducks but also worth noting for the abundance of colorful trees. The center has recently undergone a major makeover with an outdoor exhibit of hawks and owls. Canoe rentals are also available to enjoy the sight of all the trees from the lake.
Wood Lake Nature Center
6710 Lake Shore Dr S, Richfield, MN 55423
Another nature center that should not be counted out is the Wood Lake Nature Center. There are lakes abound but also plenty of trails to stroll through a long stretch of woods with many trees of many colors. It’s a great spot for kids as well considering there’s a space in the woodland area for building bridges and houses with logs.
Excelsior Bay
Excelsior, MN
Excelsior is already such a beautiful little town but the highlight is the stunning natural beauty of Excelsior Bay. The lakeside town has a few shops that border a bustling boat dock with paths around for parks and playgrounds. Take a break on a bench and enjoy the sight of trees around the lake going from cool to warm as the season changes.
Loring Park
Loring Greenway, Minneapolis, MN 55403
Even if you find yourself a bit stuck within Minneapolis, you can still find some natural wonder within the city. Loring Park is small but bountiful with its immaculate pond and plenty of trees to watch change a different color. With paths and benches, it’s a pleasant detour to remind yourself it’s Fall when surrounded by skyscrapers.
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Featured Image Credit: Westwood Facebook Page
