The Magic of Fall in Duluth
Being a life long Duluthian I know firsthand what this great city has to offer. The first thing that comes to out-of-towners minds are the harsh winters, with mountains of snow and wind blowing so hard that you have to make sure grandma doesn’t drift away. But for us locals, we think of how every season is beautiful in its own way, especially fall. From all the beautiful colors up the North Shore to the local festivals and events celebrating the season, everything is just a short drive or walk away. Yes, Summer and all the fun events at Bayfront are a blast but we will save that for another time. Today, I will let you know about some of the fall staples that us Duluthians have on our calendars every year, so that you too can enjoy the Magic of Fall in Duluth.
Bayfied Applefest
Located 86 miles away in Northern Wisconsin lies the small town of Bayfield. With a population of 500 people you wouldn’t think too much about this tiny town on the shores of Lake Superior. But on the first weekend of October, this town is the place to be in the upper Midwest. Over 50,000 people come from all over the country to check out APPLEFEST! With over 60 food and craft booths you are sure to find something you love. Pair the food, beer, music, and scenery together and there is no wonder it is voted as a Top 10 Best Fall Festival by USA Today. And if the crowds in town are a little much for you, take a breather with a walk by the lake or go for a cruise around all the apple orchards in the area. Trust me folks, if you’ve never been there, you are missing out! I know it’s already happened this year.. so save it in your calendar for next year! Find out more history here!
North Shore
Just North of Duluth, up highway 61, you will find plenty of outdoor adventures. Now, you might have to bring a change of clothes because of the bipolar weather we have, but it is worth the struggle. A must do on the North Shore checklist is to check out one of the handful of state parks in the area, such as Gooseberry Falls or Split Rock Light house, where the views won’t disappoint. If you want to be a little more adventurous and are up for a hike, keep heading north and you will run into Palisade Head and Shovel Point. Here you will get your workout in for the day with the all the elevation drops and climbs, but the views of Lake Superior and the changing colors of the leaves are fantastic, especially on a day like last week where mother nature gets a little rowdy with the crazy winds and huge waves. Needless to say, you can’t forget your camera when you travel north.
Halloween
Lastly the northland loves Halloween. There are plenty of options for you to choose from, whether you are a youngster or just a youngster at heart! From the Haunted Ship at the William A Irving to the BOO at the ZOO to a costume contest at the local watering hole, you are bound to have fun. If you want to have a fun time and experience a good scare, the Haunted Ship is perfect for you. Every year there is a theme that is sure to give you the heebie jeebies, then throw in the rocking of the 600 plus foot ship, OOFTA! If you want a little tamer and family-oriented event for the little ones, the Lake Superior Zoo hosts the BOO at the ZOO! The kids can see their favorite animal while dressed as their favorite animal! What is cuter than that?!
Every season in the Northland has something great to offer, but the magic of fall has to be the fan favorite for many! The natural beauty of Duluth and the surrounding areas is only amplified by the vibrant golden and warm tones that flood the treetops. The festivals and events of the chillier months are filled with warm treats and even warmer drinks, that keep people flocking up north every fall. With all the things to see and do in September through November, you will never get bored with a fall in Duluth.