With fall in full swing, it’s the perfect time to explore local activities that everyone can enjoy. From not-so-spooky parades and pumpkin patches to late-night frights, here are our top picks for family-friendly fun this October:

Aamodt’s Apple Farm – Stillwater, MN

Fall into fun with a visit to Aamodt’s Apple Farm! Enjoy apple picking and hop on the Honeycrisp Express barrel train ride. There are also wagon rides and a charming small goat farm that will delight the little ones. Don’t forget to sample some wine and hard cider while navigating the corn maze!

Minnetonka Orchard – Minnetrista, MN

The annual BOO BASH on October 27 will be packed with family fun, including trick-or-treating, a bouncy house, a DJ, kids’ dance, games and prizes, Halloween crafts, and lots of spooky excitement! Plus, don’t miss the Dog Costume Contest on October 20.

Sever’s Fall Festival – Shakopee, MN

Dive into fall fun at Sever’s Fall Festival, featuring a corn maze, giant slide, jumping pillow, petting zoo, pumpkin blasters, and more! It’s an adventure for the whole family.

ValleySCARE – Shakopee, MN

For braver souls, experience thrills at ValleySCARE, where Valleyfair transforms into a spooky destination. Explore haunted houses, frightful rides, and themed attractions for a night of thrilling fun.

Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular – Apple Valley, MN

Experience the enchanting Jack-o-Lantern Spectacular at the Minnesota Zoo, where creativity meets Halloween in a stunning display of carved pumpkins.

Light Up the Night Parade – Anoka, MN

The Halloween Capital of the World presents a spooktacular parade of colorfully lit floats celebrating the spirit of Halloween. Afterwards walk over to City Hall for the annual bonfire with food trucks and more!

Great Pumpkin Festival – St. Louis Park, MN

Join the Shops at West End and the Twin Cities Road Crew for a family-friendly event featuring trick or treating at select retail locations, Halloween-themed music, games, and prizes. Plus, a bounce house, craft area, face painter, and more!