With its vibrant foliage in dozens of beautiful shades and crisp, cool air that sets the stage for engaging outdoor activities, Minnesota’s autumn splendor is an experience you don’t want to miss. For seniors near Bloomington, the options for enjoying the region’s invigorating fall season are endless. To help you make the most of this year’s autumn weather, we’ve outlined a few of the top things to do for seniors in the Bloomington and Minneapolis region this fall.
Fall in Bloomington, Minnesota – Senior Activities for Every Interest
From outdoor autumn activities for seniors to indoor fun and places to visit, Bloomington has an abundance of nearby entertainment options. Looking to enjoy the brilliant colors of the season? Explore the Minneapolis region’s dozens of lakes and parks, which are brimming with trails, waterfront activities, gorgeous landscapes, and even fall foliage tours for seniors.
Those who’d rather take in the views from the comfort of their vehicle can explore the state’s variety of incredible scenic fall drives, perfect for a laid-back excursion. Prefer to stay indoors? Check out indoor fall activities for seniors, like the area’s famed Mall of America. This destination is great for grandkids and friends alike, featuring hundreds of stores, multiple restaurants, and even a theme park. Want a mix of everything? Bloomington and its surrounding cities boast plenty of fall events, museums, attractions, and more.
Fall Events in Bloomington, Minnesota
As you start to make plans to bring in the new season, here are some of the most popular fall outings for seniors and events to enjoy in and around Bloomington and the Twin Cities:
Twin Cities Oktoberfest
Break out the lederhosen and attend the Twin Cities Oktoberfest. Hosted at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, this popular celebration is in its 11th year and only continues to grow. The emphasis is on supporting local businesses, with food, beer, and music from the Twin Cities area.
Date: Typically the first weekend in October
Bloomington Fall Farmers Market
For the freshest fall produce, you can’t beat going straight to the source. The Bloomington Farmers Market is the perfect place to stock up on everything from apples to pumpkins and other festive seasonal items.
Date: Every Saturday from October through November
Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular
Spectacular might be an understatement for this event. Hosted by the Minnesota Zoo, you can stroll the grounds to take in more than 5,000 illuminated pumpkins creatively carved in an amazing assortment of styles. Fun for all ages, there’s no shortage of jack-o-lantern inspiration.
Date: Typically runs from October to November
Scarecrow Tours
Love getting into the classic decor of the season? Travel to the city of Waconia in October to check out more than 50 unique scarecrow creations. The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum also offers a fun scarecrow display, held annually during the month of October at the Dahlberg Welcoming Terrace.
Date: Annually in October
Mall of America’s October Celebrations
Mall of America is a year-round attraction, but it really comes alive during October. The amusement park gets a spooky twist. Professional sculptors are available to hand-carve just about any kind of pumpkin you can dream up. On the day of Halloween, it also becomes a grandkid-friendly Trick-or-Treat destination, with costumed kids, entertainment, and copious amounts of candy. Check out the mall’s events calendar to stay current on upcoming activities.
Classic Fall Activities for Seniors Near Bloomington
The beauty of Bloomington and the Twin Cities is that there’s never any shortage of options. If you prefer to pave your own trail, here are some independent fall activities in Minneapolis and other classic ways to enjoy the season:
Harvest Moon Viewing
Fall and full moons go hand-in-hand. Take advantage of the cool weather and the area’s many community outdoor spaces with a cozy blanket, a cup of hot cider, and friends or loved ones.
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
Voted the best botanical garden in North America by USA Today readers in 2019, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum allows you to take in all the natural beauty of fall. They have more than 1,200 acres of professionally maintained gardens to get lost in, as well as attractions like the Apple House and Glass Pumpkin Patch. Be sure to plan in advance, as they’re open by reservation only.
Minnehaha Falls
Autumn at Minnehaha Falls is one of the most beautiful times of the year. The park is easily accessible, allowing you to take in the beauty of the waterfall and the inspiring colors of the fall foliage.
Farm Visits
Minnesota is an amazing state for agriculture. Whether you’re looking for the perfect pumpkin to carve or want to plan an apple-picking adventure, there’s a local farm that would be happy to welcome you. The Minnesota Grown website is a great resource for finding pick-your-own farms in your area.
Celebrate Fall at Friendship Village of Bloomington
Community life is at the center of everything we do at Friendship Village of Bloomington, a senior living community located just 25 minutes south of Minneapolis. We believe it’s the people who make the difference, and our residents have the freedom to shape their lifestyles.
Our convenient location puts us within arms’ reach of the best autumn activities in the area and year-round recreation options for seniors. Whether you enjoy the nightlife of Minneapolis-Saint Paul or the numerous parks and outdoor spaces, our proximity to Minneapolis offers something for everyone.
We provide independent living options and health services, with wellness as the core focus. If you would like to learn more about the community at Friendship Village of Bloomington, please don’t hesitate to contact us and start the conversation.
