Celebrate MEA Weekend with Fall Colors & Family Fun in Lanesboro
September 27, 2025
As autumn deepens and MEA weekend (October 16-19, 2025) approaches, Lanesboro invites you to slow down, soak in vivid fall color, and enjoy seasonal fun for the whole family. Whether you’re craving outdoor adventure, cozy moments, or creative inspiration, this small town delivers.
Corn Maze, Apple Picking, Bike Trails & Family Adventures
Your fall weekend can start with a visit to Big Springs Farm Pumpkins & Corn Maze, where corn mazes, pumpkin picking, hayrides, and fall décor set the tone for a festive escape. Wander the maze routes, pick a pumpkin or bundle of sunflowers, and enjoy classic fair-style snacks at the farm stand.
Then, head into town and hit the Root River Trail, one of the best fall family biking experiences in Minnesota. This scenic stretch of trail is perfect for biking or walking through a riot of red, gold, and orange — especially as the leaves peak right around MEA weekend.
Another can’t-miss activity is a drive along the Historic Bluff Country Scenic Byway. This winding route showcases rolling farmland, dramatic limestone bluffs, and endless stretches of hardwood forest glowing with peak fall color. It’s an easy way for the whole family to take in the autumn beauty of the Root River Valley — with plenty of spots to pull over for photos or a quick picnic.
For a different perspective on the bluffs, take to the Root River by canoe or kayak. Gentle currents and easy access points make it a family-friendly adventure, with stretches that wind past limestone cliffs, hardwood forests, and abundant wildlife. Paddling in autumn adds a whole new layer of beauty as the fall colors reflect off the water — a peaceful, memorable way to experience Bluff Country together.
Anglers will also find plenty to enjoy along the Root River. With its cool, clear waters, the area is known for excellent catch-and-release trout fishing, offering both peaceful solitude and the thrill of reeling in a lively rainbow or brown trout against a backdrop of fall colors.
For families and thrill-seekers, the Eagle Bluff High Ropes Course remains a highlight. Climb, balance, and zip through the treetops on during their MEA High Ropes event. Additionally, the hiking trails at the Eagle Bluff site offer peaceful woodland strolls and gorgeous overlook views.
Families can also head just outside of town for a visit to Blossom Hill Orchard & Farm, where rows of apple trees are ready for picking during MEA Weekend. It’s a chance to enjoy the crisp fall air, gather your own apples, and savor the season with cider, baked goods, and other fresh-from-the-farm treats.
Art, Culture & Local Flavor
MEA Weekend in Lanesboro brings plenty of cultural flair alongside the fall colors. Local pubs, breweries, and cafés will be hosting live music ranging from acoustic folk and Americana to blues and classic rock — the kind of laid-back performances that pair well with a craft beer or cozy small-town pub atmosphere.
The final 2025 Lanesboro Area Art Trail is happening MEA weekend, so be sure to explore it. This self-guided tour gives you a chance to poke into artists’ studios, meet creators, and possibly acquire one-of-a-kind artworks or crafts.
You can also take a detour to Whalan, where one of the art trail stops often resides. Drop by the historic Whalan Depot for a pause, grab a snack, and browse artisan-made goods. Treasures on the Trail carries a selection of handcrafted items — a perfect place to pick up a keepsake.
For theatergoers, the Commonweal Theatre Company will be presenting two productions in repertory during MEA Weekend: King Lear and Lone Star Spirits. Whether you’re in the mood for a timeless Shakespearean drama or a lighthearted small-town comedy, there’s a stage experience waiting for you.
Explore Local History
MEA Weekend is also a perfect time to step back in time and connect with the stories that shaped Bluff Country. At the Lanesboro History Museum, you’ll discover exhibits on the town’s milling and railroad past, immigrant communities, and the local traditions that helped Lanesboro grow into the vibrant community it is today. Interactive displays and well-preserved artifacts make it an engaging stop for families and history buffs alike.
For those who prefer to explore outdoors, the Lanesboro Talking Trail offers a self-guided audio tour that brings local landmarks and stories to life right from your smartphone. As you walk or bike through town, you can listen to narrated segments about everything from historic architecture to legendary local characters — turning your MEA weekend stroll into a journey through Lanesboro’s past.
Tours & Local Discoveries
For a gentler pace, consider an Amish heritage tour in the surrounding farm country. You’ll get a window into traditional farming, handicrafts, and local foodways. Many tours include stops at working farms, small shops, and opportunities to sample baked goods or purchase artisan goods.
Another unique adventure is a guided cave tour. Just outside Lanesboro, visitors can step underground to explore fascinating limestone formations, learn about the geology of the Driftless Area, and experience hiking trails that connect above and below ground. It’s an unforgettable way to see another side of Bluff Country’s natural beauty.
The rolling countryside around Lanesboro is also full of scenic byways, quiet roads, and hidden viewpoints — perfect for a drive, a small picnic, or just leisurely stops along the way.
Where to Eat, Shop & Stay Over MEA Weekend
Dining & Drinks
Lanesboro offers plenty of ways to satisfy your appetite over MEA Weekend. From cozy cafés and family-friendly diners to farm-to-table restaurants with seasonal menus, you’ll find meals that highlight local flavors and hearty classics. Don’t forget to leave room for dessert — whether it’s a stop at the ice cream shop, a fresh pastry from a bakery, or a sweet treat at a café.
Shopping & Boutiques
Downtown Lanesboro and nearby Whalan are filled with boutiques, galleries, artisan studios, and gift shops. It’s the perfect chance to browse for handmade goods, locally crafted products, or a unique keepsake to remember your trip. Many shops rotate seasonal offerings, so there’s always something new to discover.
Lodging & Accommodations
Whether you prefer the charm of a bed-and-breakfast, the convenience of an inn, the privacy of a rental cottage, or a more rustic retreat, Lanesboro has lodging options to match every style. Book early for MEA Weekend, as fall is one of the most popular times to stay in town.
Make the Most of MEA Weekend in Lanesboro
MEA Weekend in Lanesboro is all about slowing down, soaking in the colors of fall, and creating memories with the people you love. From pumpkin patches and art studios to trails, live music, and theatre, there’s something here for every age and every pace. Add in the small-town hospitality, unique shops, and cozy places to stay, and it’s easy to see why Lanesboro shines as a fall getaway.
Whether it’s your first visit or a tradition you return to each October, MEA Weekend in Lanesboro is sure to be filled with color, culture, and connection — the perfect recipe for an unforgettable autumn escape.
👉 Find the perfect place to stay and book your MEA getaway now at lanesboro.com/lodging >>