Fall Adventures in Minneapolis-St. Paul: Apple Orchards, Art, and Autumn Savings!

October in Minneapolis-St. Paul is a dream come true for anyone who loves the magic of autumn. As the season changes, vibrant hues of red, yellow, and orange paint the landscapes, transforming parks, streets, and neighborhoods. Let’s dive into a detailed guide on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of this beautiful month in the Twin Cities—and how you can save some cash along the way with Travel Arrow!

 Autumn Splendor: Seasonal Changes in Minneapolis-St. Paul

In October, the city becomes a tapestry of fiery colors as the trees shift from lush greens to deep reds, warm oranges, and golden yellows. Neighborhood parks,

especially Minnehaha Park, along with larger green spaces like Fort Snelling State Park, provide perfect spots to walk and revel in the seasonal changes. The Mississippi River offers scenic views, particularly from the Stone Arch Bridge, where you’ll have an incredible vantage point of the river framed by colorful trees on either side.

 Explore Stillwater and Local Apple Orchards

Just a short drive from the Twin Cities, the charming town of Stillwater feels like a quaint autumn escape. Nestled along the St. Croix River, this town boasts cozy shops, riverside restaurants, and an abundance of fall foliage. One October tradition you won’t want to miss is apple picking at one of the nearby orchards. Head to Aamodt’s Apple Farm for an idyllic day of apple picking, where kids and adults alike can enjoy the rows of apple trees ripe with fruit.

Finish your day with a stop at Thor’s Hard Cider Tap Room. They offer some of the best locally made cider, perfect for enjoying the crisp October air. Be sure to sample the autumn specials, including spiced and honey-infused ciders, which pair well with the freshly picked apples.

 Visit the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden

One of Minneapolis’s iconic spots, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is an outdoor gallery that comes alive with fall colors. Featuring the famous Spoon bridge and Cherry, this space is filled with sculptures that take on a new life against the bright autumn backdrop. Bring your camera to capture the contrast of modern art with nature’s colorful transformation. Wandering through the garden on a crisp October day is a tranquil experience that combines art with the beauty of nature.

 George Floyd Memorial: A Moment of Reflection

A significant landmark in Minneapolis is the George Floyd Memorial at 38th Street and Chicago Avenue. October’s calm atmosphere provides a moment for thoughtful

reflection and remembrance at this powerful site. The space serves as a tribute to Floyd’s life and as a symbol of the city’s commitment to social justice and equality. Local artists and volunteers maintain the murals and memorials, which continue to evolve with messages of hope and calls for justice.

 Mall of America: SpongeBob and Optimus Prime Awaits!

Rain or shine, the Mall of America is the place to go for some family-friendly adventure. October means Halloween fun, and Nickelodeon Universe is decked out with seasonal decorations. You can even catch SpongeBob SquarePants and his best friend Patrick as

they go trick-or-treating through the park, adding a touch of spooky fun to your visit! Don’t forget to check out the massive LEGO Optimus Prime sculpture—it’s impressive in any season but looks especially thrilling surrounded by Halloween decor.

Apart from the themed fun, the mall offers more than just shopping. With countless dining options, an indoor amusement park, and activities like mini-golf and an aquarium, you can easily spend a whole day here.

 Saving on Your Stay with Travel Arrow and Priceline

If you’re like many travelers, finding a nice hotel at a good price is part of the fun. When we visited Minneapolis-St. Paul, we used Travel Arrow with Priceline to score an incredible deal. While 4-star hotels like the JW Marriott or Radisson Blu at the Mall of America are luxurious, they can be pricey. Instead, we opted to stay at the Intercontinental Hotel—a 4-star hotel with fantastic amenities—just minutes away and for a fraction of the price!

Using Travel Arrow with Priceline is simple and can help you secure major savings:

1. Search Your Preferred Hotels: Use Travel Arrow to explore hotel options in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. Plugging in preferred dates and checking ratings and locations is key to identifying the best options.

2. Compare Prices with Travel Arrow: Travel Arrow works with Priceline to reveal hidden discounts and deals. By booking through Priceline, you can find “Express Deals,” which often provide discounts of up to 60% for comparable 4-star hotels, just like our stay at the Intercontinental.

3. Use Express Deals: Once Travel Arrow has pointed out the discounted options, use Priceline’s Express Deals to get the best price. These deals allow you to pick a hotel with your desired star rating and location, but you’ll find out the exact hotel after booking. It’s an easy way to get a quality hotel for significantly less!

4. Plan for Added Perks: Some hotels offer free breakfast, parking, or shuttle service, which can add even more value to your stay. By booking through Travel Arrow and Priceline, you can browse these options and score the best amenities without breaking the bank.

 Wrapping Up October in Minneapolis-St. Paul

October in the Twin Cities offers a wealth of experiences from vibrant foliage and charming small towns to powerful historical sites and family-friendly adventures. Whether you’re apple-picking in Stillwater, reflecting at the George Floyd Memorial, or enjoying Halloween festivities at the Mall of America, Minneapolis-St. Paul comes alive in fall in a way that’s perfect for families, solo travelers, and everyone in between.

And thanks to Travel Arrow and Priceline, finding budget-friendly accommodations that don’t skimp on quality is easier than ever. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and prepare to experience the best of fall in Minneapolis-St. Paul—without blowing your travel budget.