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Find Romance & Adventure this Fall in Lanesboro, Minnesota

Fall colors overlooking Lanesboro from the Church Hill Overlook
View of fall colors from the Church Hill Overlook in Lanesboro / Photo courtesy of Commonweal Theatre Co.

Welcome to Lanesboro, nestled in the heart of the Driftless Region, where autumn paints the landscape with vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold. For couples seeking romance and adventure, this charming small town offers countless ways to experience fall’s magic—from outdoor adventures to cozy evenings by the fire. Here’s your guide to planning the perfect autumn getaway filled with beauty, connection, and seasonal charm.

Fall colors on the Root River Bike Trail
Beautiful fall colors on the Root River Bike Trail.

Embrace Fall on a Romantic Trail Ride

Take a leisurely ride along the Root River State Trail through wooded valleys glowing with autumn color. Stop in nearby Whalan for a warm beverage or sweet treat, then continue your journey through Bluff Country’s rolling hills and scenic overlooks.

View from inside a kayak floating on the Root River in Lanesboro, with other paddlers and tubers enjoying the calm water on a summer day.
Kayaking the Root River is a peaceful way to enjoy the water, the scenery, and the simple pleasures of Lanesboro together / Photo courtesy Root River Outfitters

Paddle & Fish Together

Rent a canoe or kayak for a peaceful trip down the Root River. With the trees ablaze in color and reflections dancing on the water, it’s one of the most romantic and serene ways to experience fall in Lanesboro. Bring along a fishing pole, too—the Root River and Bass Pond are known for their trout and smallmouth bass, making it easy to blend paddling with a little riverside angling.

Sunflower field and pumpkin patch at Big Springs Farm in Lanesboro, MN
Beautiful sunflower field and pumpkin patch / Photo courtesy of Big Springs Farm Pumpkins & Corn Maze

Go Pumpkin and Sunflower Picking and Get Lost—Together—in a Corn Maze

Head to Big Springs Farm Pumpkins & Corn Maze for a playful autumn outing. Navigate a themed corn maze, pick from hundreds of pumpkins, stroll through flower fields, and enjoy hayrides and family-friendly activities. It’s the perfect way to share laughter and soak in the charm of the season.

A rustic Amish farm scene near Lanesboro, with traditional horse-and-buggy carriages parked in front of simple barn structures and golden fall fields beyond.
Take in the charm of fall on a guided Amish tour through rolling farmlands near Lanesboro / Photo courtesy of Bluffscape Amish Tours

Take in the Scenic Countryside on a Guided Amish Tour

Step back in time with a guided tour of the nearby Amish community. Ride through rolling farmland, visit homesteads, and browse handcrafted goods like quilts, baskets, furniture, and baked treats. It’s a meaningful way to connect with the region’s heritage while enjoying a beautiful fall outing together.

Overlook view at Eagle Bluff in Bluff Country, showing the Root River winding through hills covered in fall colors with a weathered tree in the foreground.
A stunning fall overlook at Eagle Bluff—where the Root River winds through a valley of colorful bluffs in the Lanesboro area / Photo courtesy Eagle Bluff ELC

Discover Fall Beauty on Nature Trails

For a slower pace, lace up your hiking boots and explore the trails around Lanesboro. Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center offers wooded paths, overlooks with sweeping views of the Root River Valley, opportunities for birdwatching, and a thrilling high ropes course that lets you rise above the canopy for unforgettable fall views. Wherever you wander, you’ll savor crisp autumn air and panoramic scenery.

Photo of Commonweal Theatre actors during a show
Scene from Commonweal's 2024 performance of "The Outsiders" / Photo courtesy of Commonweal Theatre

Experience Arts & Theater

Lanesboro is known as a hub for arts and culture. Enjoy live theater, visit galleries, or explore the Lanesboro Area Art Trail to meet regional artists in their studios. Whether you’re inspired by a performance, a painting, or handcrafted treasures, the arts bring another layer of romance and creativity to your visit.

Two couples having beer around a bonfire at Sylvan Brewing in Lanesboro, MN
Two couples enjoying a beer around a bonfire on a beautiful fall evening. Photo courtesy of Sylvan Brewing.

Colorful Days & Cozy Nights

After a day of exploring, settle in for an evening of simple pleasures. Share a meal at a riverside table or a cozy café, then wander Lanesboro’s historic downtown, popping into boutiques, galleries, and shops offering handmade treasures. End the night under the stars with a bonfire on a patio or courtyard—wrapped in a blanket, sipping a comforting beverage, and soaking in the quiet glow of the fire.

The Lanesboro Dam on the Root River surrounded by green trees and early signs of fall, with people fishing at the base.
A September view of the Lanesboro Dam—where the Root River flows strong and fall colors begin to emerge

Celebrate the Season Together and Immerse in Seasonal Charm

Lanesboro comes alive with fall events—art trails, boutique crawls, live music, and seasonal festivals. You’ll even find unique outdoor programs, like guided astronomy hikes and foraging classes, that connect you to both the land and the season.

Whether biking through colorful trails, paddling the river, hiking scenic bluffs, or relaxing by the fire, Lanesboro invites you to slow down and enjoy the season. In every moment, you’ll find not only fall’s beauty but also a sense of connection—making this the perfect retreat whether you're looking for romance, adventure, or both!

Plan your trip around a favorite happening, or let the spontaneous spirit of Bluff Country surprise you with something new.

👉 Find lodging now for your romantic fall escape to Lanesboro >>

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