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10 BEST THINGS TO DO THIS FALL IN ALBERT LEA, MN

  • Writer: Brad Jones
    Brad Jones
  • Oct 6
  • 3 min read

Updated: Oct 7

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Fall in Albert Lea is a season full of color, charm, and community spirit. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, local shopping, or festive fun, there’s something here for everyone. Here are ten of the best things to do this fall:




1. Shop Sip-N-Stroll (Sept. 27)


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Kick off the fall season in downtown Albert Lea with the annual Shop Sip-N-Stroll! Grab your tumbler and passport from the CVB or a participating store, then make your way through 14 sip stations offering drinks, deals, and drawings. It’s a perfect mix of shopping local and enjoying a day with friends.







2. Big Island Rendezvous (Oct. 4–5)


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Experience history come alive at Bancroft Bay Park during the Big Island Rendezvous. Step back into the 1800s as you wander through historic camps, meet reenactors, and enjoy live demonstrations of frontier life, music, and food. It’s a favorite for families and history lovers alike.









3. Citywide Garage Sales (Oct. 9–12)

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One of Albert Lea’s most beloved fall traditions, the Citywide Garage Sales bring the whole town together for four days of bargain hunting and treasure finding. With sales all across the city, it’s a great time to explore neighborhoods and maybe find that item you didn’t even know you needed.




4. Oktoberween (Oct. 23–26)


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Two great celebrations wrapped into one big event! Oktoberween at the Freeborn County Fairgrounds features food, games, live music, a kids carnival, and the return of the haunted house. From family fun to a good scare, this event has something for everyone. Admission is just $5 and includes two premium activities!






5. Downtown Trick-or-Treat (Oct. 31)


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Put on your costumes and head downtown from 4–7 PM for the Halloween Spooktacular! Participating stores will be handing out candy, and the streets come alive with families, music, and spooky fun. It’s one of the safest and most festive ways to celebrate Halloween in Albert Lea.








6. Taylor Kids Pumpkin Patch (Open Daily Through Oct. 31)


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There’s no better place to pick your perfect pumpkin! Taylor Kids Pumpkin Patch offers a wide variety of colorful gourds, photo ops, and beautiful sunsets that make for a great family outing. Open daily from 9 AM to 7 PM at 23372 740th Ave, it’s a local favorite for all ages.




Location: 23372 740th Ave, Albert Lea, MN





7. Camping Adventures!


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Fall camping in Albert Lea is unbeatable. Set up at Hickory Hills Campground and enjoy modern amenities like full-hookup sites, Wi-Fi, and even an Olympic-size pool. Or head to Myre-Big Island State Park for a more natural getaway, with miles of hiking and biking trails, canoe rentals, and scenic picnic areas.









8. Fall Colors at Myre-Big Island State Park


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The fall color display at Myre-Big Island State Park is truly breathtaking. With over 1,700 acres and 8 miles of shoreline, you can hike, paddle, or simply sit back and take in the golden hues reflecting on the lake. It’s one of the best spots in southern Minnesota for leaf peeping and photography.




19499 780th Ave, Albert Lea, MN




9. Albert Lea Audubon Nature Preserve


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Tucked along Oregon Street, this peaceful nature preserve is perfect for a quiet stroll or some birdwatching. It’s home to a variety of wildlife, native plants, and walking paths that provide a serene escape from the city bustle.





Oregon St, Albert Lea, MN




10. Hammer Sports Complex


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Cheer on local teams or catch a Friday night game under the lights at Hammer Sports Complex. This modern facility is a hub for sports and community events, and fall is the perfect time to enjoy some cool weather action on the field.






1011 Hammer Rd, Albert Lea, MN




Make the most of the season! From historic festivals to cozy campfires, Albert Lea is the place to be this fall. Whether you’re a visitor or a lifelong resident, there’s always something new to discover in The Land Between the Lakes. 🍁

 
 
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