Home to all four seasons, we've got some stunning views all year round. But there's nothing quite like the changing colors of fall in Minneapolis! Before any snow touches the ground and the days get shorter, the city gets a little cozier as iced coffee orders turn hot, warm blankets make their way out of the closet and our favorite sweaters slip over our heads once more.

Welcome to fall in Minneapolis, when the city comes alive with vibrant colors and beautiful crisp, sunny days. Is there really anything better than walking down the street with a warm beverage in hand and hearing the crunch of fallen leaves under your feet? We didn't think so. Here are some of our favorite places to visit for the best fall foliage views!

River Parkway

The streets of East and West River Parkway run along either side of the Mississippi River as it travels through St. Paul and Minneapolis. Not only do you have a beautiful view of the river while you go for a walk or bike ride, but in the fall you get the privilege of beautiful seasonal colors along your route, as well. Even if you don't have the time for a leisurely walk or bike ride, it's a stunning road to drive along. Avoiding the freeway will never be as dazzling as it is on River Parkway in the fall!

Theodore Wirth Regional Park

Home to a multitude of outdoor activities all year long, Theodore Wirth Regional Park, located on the edge of Minneapolis, offers gorgeous fall aesthetics all season. There are many walking and biking routes to choose from, while interconnected systems of trails takes you through hills, forest, and offers scenic views full of wildlife! If it's warm enough, you will find activities such as disc golf and an archery range. The Trailhead at the park offers food, drinks and restroom amenities for visitors.

Minnehaha Falls

One of the most popular outdoor escapes in Minneapolis, Minnehaha Falls/Minnehaha Regional Park is a vibrant destination in any season. But when the waterfall is surrounded by fall colors, there's just something magical about it. The park offers different forms of adventure to see the sights beyond the waterfall, as well. Trails for walking and bike rentals (through mid-October) will take you further into and around the park for more scenic views.

Historic Main Street

Main Street in Northeast Minneapolis is a cobblestone road lined with a movie theater, bustling restaurants and some of our favorite patios. It’s also the oldest portion of the city, but has kept its character intact. Located on the north side of the Stone Arch Bridge and along the Mississippi River, the area is one-of-a-kind in an ever-expanding city. With walkways and other paths along the river, the scenery is nothing sort of marvelous in the fall.

Chain of Lakes

Walk along the shorelines of six different lakes (Brownie Lake, Cedar Lake, Lake of the Isles, Bde Maka Ska, and Lake Harriet), all closely connected by trails to form the Chain of Lakes. Though you can get away with making your way around just one, all of the above are certain to have colorful fall sights contrasting against the dark lake water. There's no wrong lake to take a walk or bike ride around, though Bde Maka Ska, Lake Harriet and Lake of the Isles are all well favored among Minneapolis locals.

Witch's Hat Water Tower

Known for some of the best cityscapes of Minneapolis, the Witch's Hat Water Tower (formally known as the Prospect Park Water Tower) resides in the Prospect Park neighborhood. The tower itself is only open one day a year, and most definitely is worth the wait, but the surrounding area at the base has just as great of a view and is filled with picnic tables and benches for those wishing to kick back, relax and take in the fall views.

Loring Park

Home to Holidazzle, Twin Cities Pride Festival, and various other citywide events, Loring Park is a beautiful oasis smack-dab in the middle of Minneapolis. With walking paths, a large pond, local eateries and public art, this green space (red/orange/yellow space in the fall!) is a beautiful spot to admire fall foliage and indulge in some much needed nature without leaving the greater downtown area.

Boom Island

On the Mississippi Riverfront, Boom Island is a riverside retreat for all. With gorgeous views of the downtown Minneapolis skyline just across the river, the area is picturesque. Walking paths and a playground for the little ones makes this the perfect spot for a fall family outing!