The air is getting crisp, and soon the leaves will show their first splashes of color, and Cottage Grove is the perfect spot to enjoy the best of Minnesota’s autumn. This year, go beyond the ordinary and make your fall unforgettable by exploring three unique and wonderful destinations.
From classic farm fun to peaceful nature escapes, here’s your guide to making the most of the season at Afton Apple Orchard, Zywiec’s Garden Center, and Shepard Farm.
Afton Apple Orchard: A Full-Day of Fall Farm Fun
If you’re looking for a day filled with classic fall fun and farm adventure, Afton Apple Orchard is the place to be. This destination is a favorite for a reason, offering a full lineup of activities for all ages.
The Best Apple Picking: Afton boasts a huge variety of apples, from the famously crisp Honeycrisp to the uniquely sweet SweeTango and a dozen other varieties. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of picking your own perfect apple.
The Legendary Corn Maze: Get delightfully lost in their famous 15-acre corn maze, which features a new design and theme each year. With three phases of difficulty, it’s a fun challenge for everyone.
Pumpkins and Play: Hayrides will take you out to the pumpkin patch to find your ideal jack-o’-lantern. The fun doesn’t stop there, with a huge playground, a petting farm, and “Straw Mountain” for climbing and sliding.
Don’t Forget the Treats: Your visit isn’t complete without a stop at the market for fresh-pressed apple cider, piping-hot apple fritters, and their irresistible homemade donuts.
Zywiec’s Garden Center: The Local Fall Wonderland
For a mix of family-friendly fun and a touch of spooky season, Zywiec’s Garden Center is a can’t-miss local spot. It’s the perfect place to get your home ready for fall while enjoying some classic autumnal activities.
Family-Friendly Fun: Zywiec’s has a corn maze that’s great for all ages, along with a “Fall Fun Fest” on select weekends. This festival includes a “no-scare” tour of their haunted house, pumpkin painting, and hayrides.
Get Your Decor Here: Beyond the activities, Zywiec’s is your go-to source for all things fall decor. Browse their huge selection of pumpkins, gourds, cornstalks, hay bales, and beautiful mums in every color.
Haunted House Thrills: For those seeking a real adrenaline rush, Zywiec’s is well-known for its separate, full-on haunted house and hayride. It’s a local Halloween tradition that draws crowds looking for a good fright.
Shepard Farm: A Peaceful Nature Escape
If your idea of fall bliss is a quiet walk among the changing leaves, then Shepard Farm, part of the Dodge Nature Center, is your sanctuary. It offers a more serene, nature-focused way to enjoy the season’s beauty.
Scenic Trails: Hike the beautiful trails that wind through woodlands and restored prairies, offering stunning views of the autumn colors. It’s a fantastic spot for a reflective stroll or a leisurely family walk without the crowds.
Connect with Nature: The farm is home to various animals, and naturalist-led programs are often available, providing an educational and engaging experience for kids. You can learn about local wildlife and the seasonal changes up close.
Shepard Farm is an ideal spot to simply breathe in the crisp air, enjoy the sounds of the woods, and appreciate the simple beauty of a Minnesota fall.
Whether you want a day packed with farm fun, a bit of Halloween spirit, or a quiet retreat into nature, these three destinations offer something special for everyone. So, bundle up, grab your camera, and get ready to create some amazing memories right here in Cottage Grove. Happy fall, ya’ll!