🍂 Fall Road Trips in the Midwest You’ll Want to Take 🚗🍁

There’s just something magical about fall in the Midwest. The crisp air, the golden and fiery red leaves, the cozy roadside stops—it all makes for the perfect time to hit the road. If you’re dreaming about your next getaway, here are some of the best fall road trips in the Midwest you’ll definitely want to add to your list (including a few stunning scenic byways right here in Minnesota!).

🌲 1. Minnesota’s North Shore Scenic Drive

If you want postcard-perfect fall views, you can’t beat a drive along Minnesota’s North Shore Scenic Drive. This route stretches from Duluth all the way to Grand Portage near the Canadian border, hugging the shores of Lake Superior.

Highlights along the way:

• Gooseberry Falls State Park – roaring waterfalls framed by golden maples 🍂

• Split Rock Lighthouse – one of Minnesota’s most iconic photo spots

• Lutsen Mountains – take a gondola ride to soak in the panoramic views

• Grand Marais – a charming artsy harbor town, perfect for a coffee stop

🍁 2. Minnesota River Valley Scenic Byway

Winding for nearly 300 miles through southern Minnesota, this byway follows the Minnesota River and is stunning in the fall. The mix of rolling hills, bluffs, and small river towns makes it a peaceful drive.

Must-stop spots:

• Mankato – enjoy Minneopa State Park and its bison herd

• New Ulm – visit Schell’s Brewery and check out the German heritage

• Historic river overlooks – so many perfect photo opportunities

🌳 3. Wisconsin’s Great River Road

The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River for over 250 miles through Wisconsin, and it’s a fall gem. Bluffs tower above the river, with scenic overlooks that glow in autumn colors.

Don’t miss:

• Alma – small-town charm and the Buena Vista overlook

• Trempealeau – great hiking and river views

• La Crosse – a larger town with plenty of dining and shopping

🍂 4. Michigan’s Upper Peninsula Color Tour

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (the U.P.) is wild, rugged, and absolutely breathtaking in the fall. Towering forests, waterfalls, and Lake Superior views make it a bucket-list-worthy road trip.

Highlights include:

• Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore – colorful cliffs plus fall foliage = wow

• Tahquamenon Falls State Park – one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi

• Keweenaw Peninsula – remote, charming, and bursting with color

🌾 5. Door County, Wisconsin

Known as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest,” Door County is dotted with coastal towns, orchards, and lighthouses. Fall is apple season, and it’s the perfect excuse to road trip around the peninsula.

Can’t miss stops:

• Fish Creek & Ephraim – quaint towns with cute shops and cozy cafes

• Peninsula State Park – great for hiking or just soaking in the views

• Apple orchards & cider stops – the true taste of fall

🚗 Tips for Planning Your Midwest Fall Road Trip

• Time it right: Peak fall colors vary by state, but late September through mid-October is usually prime.

• Pack layers: Midwest fall weather can swing from sunny 70s to chilly 40s in a single day.

• Plan your stops: Many small towns have fall festivals, pumpkin patches, and apple orchards that are worth a detour.

🍂 Ready to Hit the Road?

The Midwest might not always get the same travel buzz as the coasts, but when fall rolls around, it absolutely shines. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls along Minnesota’s North Shore, exploring Wisconsin’s river bluffs, or soaking in the rugged beauty of Michigan’s U.P., these road trips prove the Midwest is full of autumn magic.

So grab your favorite fall drink, roll down the windows, and hit the road—because these Midwest road trips are ones you’ll never forget.