Fall is one of the most magical seasons in Minneapolis and the Twin Cities — crisp air, colorful leaves, cozy vibes, and plenty of ways to get outside before the cold sets in. Living at Waterbury House gives you easy access to fall around Bde Maka Ska (formerly Lake Calhoun), one of the city’s best lakefront gems. Here are the top ways to soak in autumn near the water this year.
1. Walk, Run, or Bike the Trails
Managed by Minneapolis Park and Recreation, Bde Maka Ska features ~3.1 miles of walking trails and ~3.19 miles of bike paths that circle the lake. As the leaves change to shades of gold, orange, and red, these paths become even more stunning. Bring a camera (or your phone) — the reflections in the water are especially beautiful at dawn and dusk.
Want to go further? Link up with the Kenilworth Trail or Midtown Greenway to extend your route into adjacent neighborhoods, or connect to Lake of the Isles and the Chain of Lakes for an even more scenic fall ride.
2. Kayak, Paddleboard, or Boat Before the Water Cools
Even in early fall, the water at Bde Maka Ska tends to hold on, and there are rentals nearby at Wheel Fun Rentals for kayaks, paddleboards, or pedal boats. A calm paddle across the lake at sunrise, with autumn mist or soft light on the shore, makes for an unforgettable morning — and it’s only minutes from home.
3. Hit the Beach & Picnic Spots (With a Cozy Twist)
The shore of Bde Maka Ska is still a nice spot in early fall for soaking up sun and watching the calm water. Pack a blanket and something warm (like hot cider or cocoa), maybe a thermos. One of the most relaxing activities is watching geese overhead or leaf crowns drifting by while enjoying a lakeside snack.
4. Visit the Minneapolis Sailing Center
If you haven’t tried sailing, fall is a special time for it. The Minneapolis Sailing Center, one of the top spots for Minneapolis sailing, offers seasonal classes and open sailing opportunities. The wind, the backdrop of fall leaves along the shore, the earlier sunsets—it all gives sailing an entirely different mood than in summer.
5. Seasonal Events + Public Art Fairs
- City of Lakes Art Fair (October 11–12, 2025): Located at Bde Maka Ska, this fall art fair features 150+ artists, live music, food & drinks, and beautiful autumn scenery.
- Various local pop-up markets and community gatherings around Hennepin and Lake Streets often spring up in September and October. Keep an eye on the East Bde Maka Ska newsletter for small art or food events.
6. Fall Foliage & Nature Moments
The shoreline, trees along the parkway, and especially near the pier on West 36th Street offer stunning pockets for leaf-peeping. Bring walking shoes, maybe some binoculars if you’re into birds. The transition of the tree canopy becomes a local show.
7. Fishing, Relaxation & Quiet Mornings
If you enjoy quiet mornings or afternoons, the fishing pier at West 36th Street (in Bde Maka Ska Park) is a peaceful place to cast a thin line. The lake is calmer now, fewer boats, lots of time to reflect, listen to water lapping, or watch fall light cast long shadows. Pair this with stopping at a nearby café for something warm.
8. Get Cozy with Lakeside Views from Home
After adventures outside, there’s something satisfying about settling in at home. From Waterbury House:
- Watch the sunset over the lake from your rooftop pool deck or terraces.
- Use our open-air dining or fireside lounges once the sun dips earlier but the evening is still gentle.
- Curl up by the fireplace in your apartment (if your unit has one)—or host friends for a warm drink with skyline views at dusk.
Being steps away from Bde Maka Ska means these experiences aren’t a trip—they’re your everyday.
Why Waterbury House Is Your Perfect Home Base for Fall
- You’re just blocks from trailheads, beach access, and nature without needing a car.
- You get luxury amenities (rooftop, dining, open design) that let you enjoy fall weather both outside and in.
- Every season shows a different side of Minneapolis, and fall around the lake is one of the most beautiful.
Practical Tips to Make Your Fall Outings Easier
- Dress in layers (mornings are cool, afternoons warm).
- Bring water-resistant shoes — path wetness from morning dew or recent rain shows up in leaves.
- Use public parking if heading to more popular spots like North Beach or Sailing Center, or bus/bike if you can.
- Check sunrise/sunset times — evenings get early around October, and that golden hour lighting is fleeting.
Experience Fall This Weekend
If you’re looking for something to do right now, here are a couple coming up:
- City of Lakes Art Fair at Bde Maka Ska — Oct 11–12, 2025.
- Weekend walks or bike rides around the lake — always available and always scenic.
Fall at Bde Maka Ska is the kind of seasonal joy that feels local, quiet, and special. Living at Waterbury House means you get to soak it in without travel—just step outside and enjoy.
