Skip to content

Family-Friendly Autumn Adventure Guide in Lanesboro & Whalan, Minnesota

Welcome to Lanesboro & Whalan, Minnesota, a picturesque area nestled in the heart of the Driftless Region, where autumn transforms the landscape into a colorful masterpiece. If you're a parent of young kids seeking a family-friendly autumn adventure with plenty of stops and amenities for diaper changes and other necessities, Lanesboro offers a warm and welcoming environment for families. From leisurely strolls to scenic drives and interactive farm experiences, this guide is tailored for families with little ones in tow, ensuring a memorable and stress-free autumn getaway.

Father and daughter riding bikes on the Root River State Bike Trail near Lanesboro, MN
Father and daughter biking on the Root River Bike Trail in early fall.

Embark on a leisurely trail ride along the Root River State Trail from Lanesboro to Whalan, where you can soak in the beauty of fall foliage at your own pace.

You can rent all types of bicycles and carriers right off the trail, so even the littlest can join at the Little River General Store. With designated rest areas along the trail, you'll have plenty of opportunities to stop for diaper changes, snacks, and playtime breaks. Pack a diaper bag stocked with essentials, including wipes, diapers, snacks, and a changing pad, ensuring your little ones stay comfortable throughout the journey. Don't forget to capture precious family moments amidst the colorful autumn scenery.

Young kids playing in corn at Big Springs Farms near Lanesboro, MN
Young kids having fun playing with corn. Photo courtesy of Big Springs Farm Pumpkins & Corn, LLC.

Delight your little ones with a visit to a local farm for a fun-filled adventure through a corn maze and pumpkin patch.

With wide paths and child-friendly activities, these farms offer an ideal setting for families with young kids to explore and play. Take breaks as needed for diaper changes and snacks, and let your little ones run wild amidst the autumn festivities. Don't forget to capture adorable photos of your kids amidst the pumpkins and hay bales, preserving cherished memories of your family's autumn adventure.

Wagon ride in Lanesboro, MN during Experience the Magic
Wagon ride in Lanesboro, MN during Experience the Magic of Lanesboro & Whalan. Photo courtesy of Stone Mill Clothing & Gifts.

And be sure to time your visit to overlap one of our many fall celebrations!

After all, you gotta save some fun for mom and dad.  Lanesboro’s autumnal beauty is too amazing to keep to ourselves, we celebrate the season with a number of special events and festivities.

Join the community celebration at Fall into Lanesboro, our annual harvest festival that showcases the best of fall in the region. Enjoy live music at the High Court Pub and Sylvan Brewing, arts and crafts provided by Lanesboro Arts at Parkway Place, and family-friendly activities throughout the weekend. 

On Small Business Saturday in November, the picturesque towns of Lanesboro and Whalan throw a magical celebration with Experience the Magic of Lanesboro & Whalan. As the holiday season kicks off, these quaint towns transform into scenes straight out of a Hallmark movie. Storefronts are adorned with festive decorations, streetlamps casting a warm glow against the backdrop of the bluffs. This even brings free family-friendly activities like wagon rides, delicious food and drinks, unique gift shopping, and plenty of photo opportunities. It’s a day to embrace the enchantment of the season and support local businesses.

Live music with people on the patio of Sylvan Brewing
Live music on the patio of Sylvan Brewing. Photo courtesy of Sylvan Brewing.

While parents may enjoy sampling craft beers and wines at the Beer and Wine Fest, families with young children can still join in the fun with activities such as live music, food vendors, and interactive entertainment.

With things like interactive bingo that expands beyond just beer and wine, and limited edition stein releases, and the annual tapping of Marzen beer at Sylvan Brewing, this festival is perfect for allowing parents to enjoy the festivities while keeping their little ones entertained and engaged. Raise a toast to family adventures and the joys of autumn amidst the vibrant atmosphere of the festival.

Young kids running through a field in Lanesboro, MN
Young kids running through a field in Lanesboro, MN.

Lanesboro, Minnesota, offers the perfect destination for a family-friendly autumn adventure, where parents of young kids can enjoy quality time together amidst the beauty of the season.

Whether you're leaf peeping on a trail ride, getting lost in a corn maze, or exploring the local shops and boutiques, there's something for every family to enjoy in this charming town. Plan your fall getaway to Lanesboro today and create treasured memories with your little ones amidst the splendor of autumn in the Driftless Region.