A sampler of farms and orchards
Tapping agricultural roots, Minnesota and western Wisconsin provide a wealth of farm and orchard experiences each fall. Bring cash for extras, raid quarters from your piggy bank for petting zoo feed machines, and print out online directions before you leave. Here are more don't-miss destinations for fall family fun.
Aamodt's Orchard
Stillwater
When: Orchard open daily for apples including RiverBelles, treats such as apple doughnuts and a kids' treasure hunt. Wagon rides, kiddie tram, John Deere kiddie trikes and tractors, and possible pick-your-own apples on weekends.
Highlights: Plenty of fall foods, including apple bratwurst, apple salsa, cider, pies and popcorn, plus wine tastings at St. Croix Vineyards next door.
Admission: $1-$3 per ride and per activity on weekends. No charge to visit the resident goats.
Getting there: Take Hwy. 36 to Manning Avenue in Stillwater. It's a half-mile north on the left.
Bonus: Call Aamodt's Hot Air Balloon Rides for a bucket-list trip above the St. Croix River Valley (651-351-0101).
Info: 651-439-3127; aamodts applefarm.com
Applejack Orchards
Delano
When: Bakery and apple market daily. You-pick apples and pumpkin patch plus wagon rides, American flag corn maze, corn pit, cow-themed barrel train, apple cannon, pony rides and jumping pillow, open weekends through Oct. 31 plus this Thu-Fri.
