5 Steps to Planning A Cozy Minnesota Fall Retreat
Fall in Minnesota is one of my favorite times of the year. It is the season for change. For cozying up and connecting. For getting out and breathing the crisp air, listening to the leaves crunch beneath your feet and seeing the beautiful varieties of color. A time to visit the apple orchards and go wine-tasting in your cute hat and fall clothing you’ve been waiting all summer to wear.
If it were up to me, all retreats would take place in the fall. It’s a time when the craziness of summer is over, the kids are back to school, and it’s BEFORE the craziness of the holidays start. I’m talking about the end of September/beginning of October Minnesota sweet spot.
Here are 5 Ideas for your “Up North” Fall retreat in Minnesota.
CHOOSE YOUR LOCATION & Dates
There are a few popular destinations for fall colors and weekends away. Here are a few options:
Grand Marais, Minnesota
Bayfield, Wisconsin
Lutsen, Minnesota
Cuyuna, Minnesota
Nisswa, Minnesota
Duluth, Minnesota
secure YOUR LODGING
When I think of fall retreats I think of cozy fires outside looking at a lake. Sitting on a chair with a blanket and a warm cup of coffee or a glass of red wine. I want to be outside, in nature, with my best gal-pals. There are a plethora of options for retreat lodging venues throughout Minnesota, and usually by fall time these venues have lifted their “7-day minimum stay” rule. But don’t sleep on booking, many others will have the same idea to get out and see the fall colors.
research AN AREA WITH FALL EVENTS/festivals
There are so many fun fall events in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Do a quick google search to see what some of the main happenings are. (E.g. the Bayfield apple festival). You could also look into wineries and apple orchards in your destination location. Many times they will have their own fall event calendars with live music and other elements.
MAKE A LIST OF PLACES TO SEE FALL COLORS
There are so many beautiful areas to enjoy the fall colors. Once you decide upon your destination, make a list of local hikes and lookouts where you and your crew can enjoy the fall colors. Some areas might be easily accessible, and some might require a little bit of hiking.
PLAN YOUR FOOD AND DRINKS
Many summer/fall destination locations in Minnesota and Wisconsin have cute towns to explore filled with restaurants, breweries, and boutiques. Make a list of these places and determine with your group which meals you want to enjoy out, and which ones you want to make on your own. If you’re planning on enjoying your meals at your lodging destination, make sure to plan ahead and order your groceries so you don’t have to take time away from your weekend.
If you’re looking to plan a fall getaway with your crew, book your free 30-minute consult so we can make sure you enjoy all that fall in the midwest has to offer.