Fall is nothing short of magical in Minnesota. When I moved here fifteen years ago, I promised myself the season would never be lost on me. I love the changing leaves, cozy sweaters, and, most of all, apple-picking. We spent a crisp Sunday afternoon at Ferguson’s Minnesota Harvest Orchard, and it was impossible to miss the excitement of these early September days.
The orchard grounds are vast and gorgeous, with picturesque fall views. Step foot on any of the Fergusons orchards dotted throughout the Midwest, and you will quickly understand—they know how to do apple season. Recently, Minnesota Harvest was Voted One of the six best Orchards nationwide by Wide Open Country, and The Star Tribune named them “Best Fall Destination” and “Apple Orchard” in Minnesota. So if that’s not enough to want to visit, I’ll give you a few more.
The orchard offers a variety of activities for all ages. Our crew’s top pick was the newly added Rustic Ropes course. I would love to see these in our schools; they are well done and appropriate for various ages. But year after year, we return for the one and only Corn Pit. I had to peel my children out of the kernels because they would jump and jump for hours! We revisit the corn pit multiple times during our trips to Ferguson’s.
There is an entire day of fun waiting for you outside of Apples. From the farm-friendly animals, a giant corn maze, slides, gem mining, the famous spinning apple, wagon rides, a pumpkin jumping pad, giant sunflower fields, duck races, barnyard basketball, the cow train, pedal tractors, tug of war, a massive straw bale pyramid, apple canons, lawn games, a duck pond and their newest attraction Johnny the Tractor! He sings and dances, and it’s adorable.
And there’s more good news!
When you purchase a ticket, it doubles as a season pass, and I have a discount just for you because you’re reading this post. So use “TAMARA10” for a discount at checkout when purchasing your tickets. Then keep visiting.
After five hours of fun last Sunday, my boys immediately asked when they could return to jump in the corn pit again! I hadn’t even buckled their seat belts. I love that they love this place as much as we do.
Mamas with littles at home, trust me, this will be your new favorite fall destination. When my boys weren’t in school, and we had free hours to spare, we would stay the entire day, and three years later, they still loved it.
I’m in it for the apple-picking! We jumped on the wagon ride, and I appreciated the education on the history of Minnesota Harvest while cruising to the apple trees. The apples were ready to go, so we went for it, and I have to say there is nothing as lovely as picking fresh apples with your kiddos. Be sure to pack your camera. I had a few questions about my apple orchard outfit, so scroll down to see details on our looks.
We brought home a giant bag of apples and an apple crisp mix from the Farm Store, which did not disappoint. If you’re like me, you will love exploring the farm store. There are mixes, jams, apple cider donuts (a family favorite), and plenty of food to enjoy while the kids play. Fresh kettle corn, donuts, pies, and caramel-covered apples inside the Harvest Bistro and Sweet Shoppe Bakery. So bring your appetite.
We sampled the newest apple cider slushie topped with whipped cream and a fresh apple cider donut. These slushies also come in an adult version! I highly recommend the cider flights. The presentation is adorable, and the apple pie cider was a favorite.
We have been visiting Minnesota Harvest for over a decade. I brought Leo here when he was just three months old! To say it is one of our family’s favorite fall activities is an understatement; it is our fall activity! Not only can we quickly spend four hours here and most trips more, but there is plenty for kids and adults, and we can’t wait to return.
Thank you to the Ferguson Family for hosting our crew and always making our annual visit to the orchard a fun and memorable experience. See you there!
Tamara
