The Saint Croix River Valley has bragging rights to some of the best landscapes in northern Minnesota, including the Wild Mountain Winery property. The winery and vineyard are surrounded by lush greenery in the summer and colorful foliage in the fall. Make a trek to the tasting room about an hour northeast of the Twin Cities Thursday through Saturday, when you can try six wines for $8, or bring your sweetheart and sample 12 wines for $15. Bring home local cheeses, chocolates, syrups and other locally made gifts, and don’t forget to stock up on bottles of Elmer’s White and Arrowhead Red.