Explore Southern Minnesota

http://www.exploresouthernminnesota.com

115 E Hickory #230 - Mankato, MN 56001888-975-6766

TRAVEL PLANNING TIPS

Mail in the Reader Inquiry Postcard you’llfind in this Guide. Indicate the destinationsyou are interested in, and they will be notifiedto send you information.

Check out websites for area surprises.Website addresses are in the Guide Directory.

The new and innovative digital guide onthe web! Go to www.itinerariesmidwest.comto access this guide online. A click on anadvertisement takes you directly to their website!

Call Convention &Visitors Bureaus andChambers of Commerce directly. They cananswer your questions about attractions,events, dining, and accommodations.

Contact Explore Minnesota Tourism at1-888-868-7476 where a travel counselor willassist you, and even mail information to you.

Travel Information Centers are convenientlylocated and distribute free literature fromaround the region. TIC staff are trained andready to assist you while you are on the road.

Internet Resources:www.511mn.orgMinnesota’s Road Traveler InformationService designed to help travelers accessweather-related road conditions,construction and congestion - 24/7.

www.exploresouthernminnesota.comSouthern Minnesota tourism website.

www.exploreminnesota.comMinnesota statewide tourism website.

www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parksInformation about Minnesota State Parks.

www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_trailsInformation about Minnesota State Trails.

www.byways.org/browse/states/MNNational Scenic Byways site with map.

www.mnmississippiriver.comMinnesota Great River Road NationalScenic Byway information.

www.accessminnesota.orgAssistance and access information forpersons with disabilities.

www.maicc.orgMN American Indian Chamber of Commerce.

www.mfea.netMinnesota Festival & Events Associationguide to member events.

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PHOTO CREDITS: Cover photo provided by JackpotJunction Casino Hotel & Dacotah Ridge Golf Club. Othercover images by Judy Dickerson (Faribault Area Airfest &Balloon Rally), Greater Mankato CVB (Mankato Pow-Wow), Lake City Tourism (Fishing Morning), MurrayCounty (Wheels of the Past). Other photos: Ron Bolduan,Jim Brandenburg, Judy Dickerson, Abby Erickson, SueFletcher, Bill Pauling, Christy Riley, Stacy Sophie, GriffWigley, Albert Lea CVB, Austin CVB, Blue Mounds StatePark, Brandenburg Gallery, Cabela’s World ForemostOutfitter, Cannon Falls, Dacotah Ridge Golf Club, End-O-Line Railroad Park & Museum, Fairmont CVB, FaribaultArea Chamber & Tourism, Fort Belmont, Greater MankatoCVB, HarmonyArea Chamber of Commerce, Historic BluffCountry, Historic Chippewa City, Houston Nature Center,Jackpot Junction Casino Hotel, Jackson Area Chamber,Lake City Tourism Bureau, Luverne Area Chamber & CVB,Mantorville Tourism, Murray County, New Ulm CVB,Northfield CVB, Olivia Area Chamber of Commerce,Owatonna Area Chamber, Pelican Breeze II Cruise Boat,Pipestone CVB, Prairie’s Edge Casino & Resort, RedwoodAreaChamber&Tourism, St. JamesChamber of Commerce,St. Peter Chamber & Tourism, Treasure Island Resort &Casino,Village ofYesteryear,VisitWinona,WesternMinnesotaPrairieWaters,Windom CVB,Worthington Area CVB

Publisher: This publication is producedby Itineraries, Inc. in partnership with

Explore Minnesota Tourism.

Itineraries, Inc.56 S 33rd Ave, #234 - St. Cloud, MN 56301

320-259-1082 / 877-832-7267www.itinerariesinc.com / [email protected]

Our Neighbors . . . 34

Travel Planning Map . . . 36

Directory & Map Codes . . . 38

Minnesota River Valley

Prairie Land

Southern Lakes

Mississippi River Valleyand Historic Bluff Country

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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Great River Shakespeare FestivalEvan Fuller, Michael Fitzpatrick and Christopher Gerson

Think of it…a valley up to 5 miles wide. Then realize the Minnesota River Valleywas carved into the landscape at the end of the last ice age when a prehistoric

river drained the mighty Lake Agassiz leaving this flat-bottomed valley throughwhich the Minnesota River now flows. It was the Dakota people who named the

river, which means “sky-like-water” in one interpretation, and then later the state

was named after the river. The oldest known rocks in the continental United States,

over 3 billion years old, can be viewed between Montevideo and Granite Falls along

U.S. 212. The valley is notable as the origin and center of the canning industry in

Minnesota, and remains the country’s largest producers of sweet corn. As a vacation

destination, a great place to begin is the Minnesota River Valley National ScenicByway. You’ll discover history, hunting, arts, fossils, theater, entertainment, food,festivals, beer, wine, birding, parks, outdoor activities, shopping, antiques, museums,

golfing, camping, gaming, and…whew! The list seems endless. Come learn the

stories of the past so you can appreciate all the valley offers today, and create

your own surprising stories for your memories.

Minnesota River Valley

CANBYwww.canbychamber.com

Canby offers fishing, swimming, camping,sightseeing and many more outdooractivities. Step back in history with a visitto the Lund-Hoel House, an 1891 QueenAnne Victorian residence with balconies,stained glass windows, gardens, a carriagehouse and more.

HENDERSONwww.hendersonmn.com

Henderson is home to the one and onlySauerkraut Days, held the last weekendin June, and featuring theWorld ChampionSauerkraut eating contest among otherfestival events. The city is also home to theSibley County Historical Museum, a centuryold home that now serves as a museum.

MANKATOwww.visitgreatermankato.com

Mankato is the ideal vacation spot in theMinnesota River Valley. They offer alively night scene, some of the best theaterin Southern Minnesota, unique shoppingand outdoor activities galore. Diningopportunities range from the simple tothe sophisticated. Summer draws crowdsto Vikings Training Camp, SummerSolstice and the Hickory Street Ribfest, andJune Arts by the River (their first everweekend Fine Arts Festival)! Visitors also

enjoy going to Franklin Rogers Ball Parkand watching baseball played by the localminor league team, theMankato Moondogs.In fall the annual Mankato Pow-Wowtakes place at Land of Memories Park. TheHistory Fest re-enacts the civil war.Runners will enjoy hitting the pavementfor the inaugural Mankato Marathon inOctober. They had 2,000 runners in 2010and expect double that for 2011! Winters

in Mankato offer skiing on Mount Kato,Mankato Mavericks hockey, and theMankato Ballet or any other local theater.Whenever visitors choose to stay inMankato, fun and entertainment will bewaiting for them.

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MARIETTAwww.mariettamn.com

If you are a birding enthusiast Mariettais home to Salt Lake known for itsspectacular birding in April.

MORTON - JACKPOTJUNCTION CASINO HOTEL

www.jackpotjunction.com

Jackpot Junction Casino Hotel, anEnterprise of the Lower Sioux IndianCommunity, offers you 440,000 squarefeet of live casino action 24 hours a day,365 days a year. Located in southwesternMinnesota, approximately 110 miles fromMinneapolis/Saint Paul, Jackpot has 1320video slot machines, 28 table games thatinclude blackjack, poker and specialtygames, and a 375-seat bingo hall, pluspulltabs and lottery. Four food outlets:Dacotah Restaurant, Seasons Buffet,Full Deck Grill, and Wabasha CreekRestaurant, plus four full-service bars.Three entertainment facilities, The Classic

Lounge, Dacotah Exposition Center, andthe Amphitheater, offer live entertainment.Hotel accommodations include 378 deluxerooms at the Lower Sioux Lodge and a70-unit RV park. The 44,825 square footConvention Center provides childcare, an

18-hole championship golf course atDacotah Ridge Golf Club, plus a gift shopand transportation services.

NEW ULMwww.newulm.com

This “City of Charm and Tradition” islocated in the Minnesota River Valley.New Ulm is recognized for its strongGerman heritage, evident by the manyfestivals, monuments, architecture andtraditions. Food and drink figurestrongly into local traditions, and alongwith several fine dining options, Schell’sBrewery is a must see. The second oldestfamily-owned brewery in the country,specializing in brewing German-stylelagers, in addition to 14 craft beers theyproduce. Visit the brewery grounds andsee deer, roaming peacocks, and barrel

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2011 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

JANUARY29-30 33rd Annual Farm Toy Show,

Mankato 507-524-3275FEBRUARY

4-5Winterfest, Dawson 320-769-20886 Sleepy Eye Sportmen’s Club Ice Fishing Derby,

Sleepy Eye 800-290-0588MARCH

5 Fasching & Bock Fest, New Ulm 888-463-9856APRIL

15 Jose Cole Circus, Redwood Falls 800-657-707016 Spring Garden Party, Morton 800-657-7070

MAY6-8 “Shakespeare in the Park”, New Ulm 888-463-9856

17 Senior Expo, Mankato 800-657-473325 Ramsey Park Jamboree,Redwood Falls 800-657-7070

JUNE10-12 Lower Sioux Community Pow-Wow,

Morton 800-946-007711-12 Arts by the River- Fine Arts Festival,

Mankato 800-657-350812 Morgan City and Country Days,

Morton 800-657-707014 Pioneerland Band Festival, Benson 320-843-3618

19 Solstice: A Day of Music and Art,Mankato 800-657-4733

20 Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament,Springfield 507-723-3508

24-26 Dawson Riverfest, Dawson 320-769-298124-26 Riverside Days, Springfield 507-723-350824-26 Sauerkraut Days, Henderson 507-248-3234

25-26 Autofest, New Ulm 888-463-9856JULY

3-4 4th of July Celebration, Sleepy Eye 800-290-05884 Old Fashioned 4th of July Celebration,

St. Peter 800-473-34046-10 North Mankato Fun Days,North Mankato 800-657-47337-10 Redwood County Fair,Redwood Falls 800-657-7070

15-16 Bavarian Blast, New Ulm 888-463-985616-17 Kid Day Festival, Benson 320-843-361824-25 Riverfest, Dawson 320-769-2088

27-31 Corn Capital Days 2011, Olivia 888-265-CORN28 Party in the Park, Sleepy Eye 800-290-0588

AUGUST6-7 Pioneer Power Threshing Show,

Granite Falls 507-768-353010-14 Brown County Free Fair, New Ulm 888-463-9856

14 Czech Fest, Bechyn 800-657-707014 Sanborn Watermelon Days, Sanborn 800-657-707018 Annual Auto Restorer’s Car Show and Swap Meet,

St. Peter 800-473-340419-20 50th Annual Buttered Corn Days,

Sleepy Eye 800-290-0588SEPTEMBER

10 Scarecrow Festival, Morton 800-657-707010-11 Rock Bend Folk Festival, St. Peter 800-473-340416-18 Mankato Pow-Wow, Mankato 800-657-473324 Redwood Falls Festival and Grape Stomp,

Redwood Falls 800-657-707030-1, Oct 7-8 Oktoberfest, New Ulm 888-463-9856

OCTOBER8 History Fest and Jack McGowan’s Farm,

Mankato 800-657-473322 Mankato Marathon, Mankato 800-657-473322 Fall Craft Fair, Benson 320-843-3618

NOVEMBER9-10 Nativity Pageant, Springfield 866-723-8990

18-20 Beneath the Village Wreath,Morton 800-657-7070

20 Holiday Tour of Homes,Redwood Falls 800-657-7070

DECEMBER1 Mistletoe Madness, Morton 800-657-70709-10 Nativity Pageant, Springfield 507-723-4225

Hiniker Pond - Mankato

German Park

after barrel of the finestbeers imaginable.Monuments like

the Glockenspiel and“Hermann the German”will delight you.Festivals like BavarianBlast in July andOktoberfest in Octoberare widely popular,but keep in mind thereis a festival nearlyeach month! Historylovers will enjoy thenew I-pod videos ofNew Ulm’s historicpast, and the new Walking Tour brochurethat gets you up close and personal withhistory. The Specialty Shops offer a widevariety of unique gifts for all, and familieswill enjoy Flandrau State Park withtheir outdoor pool, the 7-mile paved biketrail, and the environmental-themed,mini-golf course.Visit the glorious Brown County

Museum to see the history of the “DakotaConflict of 1862”, the Minnesota MusicHall of Fame – featuring exhibits from thestate’s musical world, and Morgan CreekVineyard – they’ll charm you with theirwines, wood-fired pizza oven and theirmany events held on site. See you soonin New Ulm!

OLIVIAwww.oliviachamber.org

Olivia is located 90 miles west of theTwin Cities. Its claim to fame is its title asthe Corn Capital of the World. This areahas the highest concentration of seed

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research and processing companies of anyplace on the globe. Its reputation hasbrought visitors from 53 foreign nationsand all 50 states to Renville County tostudy agriculture. The Corn Monumentfeatures the largest ear of corn inMinnesota and most visitors stop to havetheir picture taken with the colorfulstatue. Take a stroll around town andvisit the renovated Renville CountyCourthouse (1902) it’s architecturallysignificant as one of Minnesota’s finestVictorian monumental buildings.Bring the family to the annual Corn

Capital Days and Sweet Corn Feed, heldthe last weekend in July. Join in all thefun with musical entertainment, kiddieparade, mini-triathlon, kid’s pedal pull,Tatanka Bluffs Art Show, crazy days, afly-in breakfast and air show and thegrand parade. Play a round at the publicgolf course, go bowling and pause andrelax in their seven beautiful parks.Enjoy unique dining at Max’s Grillattached to the Sheep Shedde Inn; offeringclean, comfortable rooms, located onwest Hwy 212.Forgot an item at home or want to pick

up your copy of Olivia Chamberopoly?Stop in to Page Snyder Drug for anythingyou might need.

ORTONVILLE /BIG STONE CITY

www.bigstonelake.com

The sister cities of Ortonville, Minnesotaand Big Stone City, South Dakota welcomeyou to their prairie oasis. The Big StoneLake Area is a haven for sportsmen,hunters, birders, outdoor enthusiasts andtourists. Ortonville and Big Stone City areproud to host many different festivals andevents including world class FishingTournaments, Horse Trail Rides, HistoricBoat Tours and the annual Corn Fest.Filled with camping and cabin sites

such as Schmidt’s Landing, Big StoneLake is an outdoor enthusiasts bestfriend. The 12,610-acre Big Stone Lakeis ideal for water sports and fishing.Birding and hiking are some entertainingactivities at the local Big Stone NationalWildlife Refuge. Play a round of golf onOrtonville’s “Million Dollar” golf course,and spend some time at the Big StoneCounty Historical Museum, home to manyhistorical treasures of the past.

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REDWOOD FALLSwww.redwoodfalls.org

Redwood and Renville Counties arecomprised of 26 communities withunique identities, together they are calledTatanka Bluffs and provide a uniquerecreation destination; full of natural andcultural history. The Redwood Falls areais located along the Minnesota River, andis home to Alexander Ramsey Park, thelargest municipal park in the state. Stopby to enjoy picturesque Ramsey Fallswhile camping, hiking, or visiting theanimals at the zoo, all found on the217-acre park property. The 18-holechampionship golf course butts againstthe park, known for both its beauty andisland hole. On a hot summer day, drop bythe new outdoor Family Aquatic Centerfor a refreshing ride down the waterslides. Summer is also a perfect time tovisit the Redwood County HistoricalMuseum, displaying 30 rooms of areahistory, as well as the Gillfillan FarmEstate in Morgan, a beautiful farm rich

with culture and history. May throughOctober visit Fieldstone Vineyards forsome Minnesota Wine made fromMinnesota grapes & fruit. If you’d like totry a micro brew beer, then treat yourselfwith a visit to The Brauhaus in Lucan!Known for serving the ‘Brau Brothers 3’micro beer, homemade soups and PrimeRib, plus unique specials every weekend.Each year families make an annual

trip to Holmberg Orchard in Vesta. Dailyactivities include juicy apple samples,build-your-own scarecrows. Ride throughthe orchard on a farm wagon; help stirapple butter cooked over an open fireand hunt for that perfect pumpkin in thePumpkin Patch. Settle in for a peacefulnights sleep and warm hospitality at theRedwood Valley Lodge, where you cangather around the marble fireplace orrelax in the whirlpool. Make your Sunday‘Race-day Sunday’ at the Roadhouse Barand Grill in nearby Wabasso, known fortheir exceptional food and a 150-seatedoutdoor deck with a bar and full servicefor you to enjoy in the summer months.

SLEEPY EYEwww.sleepyeye-mn.com

Experience their new Family AquaticCenter, 3.12 mile Lake Trail, DepotMuseum, Linus Statue (of Peanuts fame),and so much more! Sleepy Eye is rich inhistory, rich in tradition, and rich in pride.Come see for yourself!

SPRINGFIELDwww.springfieldmnchamber.org

Located on Highway 14, (the LauraIngalls Wilder Memorial Highway),nestled alongside the scenic CottonwoodRiver, is a growing vibrant communitywith a solid base that includes a strongcity government, a variety of businessesand advanced education. Offeringvisitors in riverside Park/RothenburgCampground – full hookups includingWIFI, swimming pool and water slide.Don’t miss Kartin in the Park for Go-Kartrentals on weekends, 14-hole Disc GolfCourse that connects with a 3-mileasphalt hiking/biking trail. Historicdowntown offers a variety of businesseswithin two blocks from the park. MicrotelInn & Suites offers 30 rooms, with anindoor pool and spa. Springfield AreaCommunity Center (adjacent to the Park)offers a variety of spaces and services.

ST PETERwww.stpeterchamber.org

At the heart of the picturesque MinnesotaRiver Valley stands St. Peter’s PearlyGates, an attraction unlike all others. Seethe Linnaeus Arboretum, on the campusof Gustavus Adolphus College, the

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E. St. Julien Cox House; an architecturalmarvel, built in 1871, and don’t miss theArts Center, an active hub of arts inSt. Peter. Enjoy a free 1919 Rootbeer atthe soda fountain, part of the Drugstoreand Pharmacy Museum, and enjoyvarious recreational activities, excellentrestaurants, accommodations and avibrant business district all in St. Peter.

WATSON

Lac Qui Parle State Park is located inWatson. The “lake that speaks” is adominant feature of this park. Geese, baldeagles, and deer are common sights. TheAnnual Wild Goose Chase 30K Race &30K Relay is held here as well.

WESTERN MINNESOTAPRAIRIE WATERSwww.prairiewaters.com

Relax, kick back and enjoy the sereneprairie, the lazy rivers, and the richethnic & cultural heritage this part ofWest Central Minnesota has to offer. It’slife in the slow lane, at its best.Breathtaking sunsets, long walks among

the wildflowers, bird watching, peacefulsurroundings and an abundance ofwildlife all come with a visit to thesefour counties known as Prairie Waters. Anarea abounding in beauty, heritage, andnature welcoming visitors with openarms, an area where the coffee is alwayson and the door is always open. It ishome to many outstanding artists, unique,fun shops and several local food farmsto help fill your shopping bags. TheMinnesota River and other waterways area recreational magnet for outdoorenthusiasts – hunters, fisherman, birders

and paddlers. History is everywhere.A great vacation spot for those who want

to linger and take their time to get to knowthe people and places. You’ll be surprisedat what you find, and once you visit youwill want to come back.Appleton: Appleton is the only city in

America with streets named for itshometown war veterans. There are manyactivities in and aroundAppleton, includinga 9-hole golf course located on the river,a community trail, groomed snowmobiletrails, newly renovated campground andcanoe access to the Pomme de Terre River,and a municipal pool.Benson: Benson offers one of the

finest 18-hole golf courses in WesternMinnesota, unlimited hunting andoutdoor recreation, and unique shoppingopportunities.Dawson: Dawson is a community with

a rich Scandinavian heritage. Officiallyknown as “Gnometown USA”, the cityfeatures gnome statues located throughoutthe town. Their recreational facilitiesinclude a 9-hole golf course, a newlyrenovated outdoor swimming pool, and anew riverside walking/biking trail alongthe Lac qui Parle River.Granite Falls: Explore this scenic river

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community nestled in the MN RiverValley. Rich in Native American Culture,historic & scenic riches abound. See theWorld’s Oldest Rock formed by GlacialRiver Warren nearly 4 billion years ago.Explore local giant bison hunting groundsand dig-site discoveries in their CountyMuseum. Camp in 2 Tepees at the UpperSioux Agency State Park or bring your tentor RV to the many campsites along the

rivers. Take advantage of extensive birdwatching, canoeing, kayaking, biking, andsome of the best fishing spots along theshores of public parks. Check out thewaterfalls while crossing the footbridgedowntown. Have fun at special eventssuch as Western Fest Rodeo, Upper SiouxWacipi (Pow-Wow), Meander Art Crawl,Ole & Lena Days, BBQ and Blues toname a few.

Prairie’s Edge Casino is located threemiles south of Granite Falls on Highway23 and offers everything you need for theideal getaway. Guests are invited to relaxand enjoy one of the 160 luxurious hotelrooms and suites. Immerse yourself in thetranquil pool area featuring an indoorpool, wading pool, hot tub, sauna, andfitness center. They also provide in-roomhigh-speed wireless internet access.If it’s exhilarating gaming action you

crave. They offer 24-hour gaming actionwith over 900 of the newest and hottestvideo slots including video roulette andelectronic bingo. Also, ten blackjacktables, a non-smoking poker room andnon-smoking slot area.Taste the delicious cuisine in the


Historic Chippewa City

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Meadows Buffet or relax and enjoyyourself in the Firefly Bar and Grillefeaturing grilled steaks, fresh seafood andcocktails. The events and conventioncenter also hosts big name entertainmentand offers 1,000 plus concert seating.The Prairie’s Edge Convenience Store

is located adjacent to the hotel and casinooffering you a non-smoking casino areaas well as all the last minute items youmay need.We know you will enjoy your stay!Hanley Falls: Hanley Falls is home to

the Minnesota Machinery Museum.They feature pioneer farm machinery(much in mint condition) and vintageautomobiles, most of which are stillfully operational. A summertime regionalthreshing show in August and six acres ofhistoric buildings and authentic equipmentmakes this museum one of Minnesota’spremier agricultural museums.Lac qui Parle County is deploying

Fiber-to-the-Premise broadband serviceto every residence and business in Lacqui Parle County. This network willmake LqP County one of the leadingtechnology counties in the state. Quality

of life and premier technology access –what a great combination! Contact theLac qui Parle County EconomicDevelopment Authority to find outmore about us and the opportunitiesavailable for you! Contact Pam Lehmannat 320-598-7976 or [email protected] visit online at www.lqpeda.com.Madison: Madison is the Lutefisk

Capitol of the USA and home of “Lou T.Fisk” – the huge cod statue greetsyou when you come into town. It’s thebirthplace of renowned poet andbest-selling artist, Robert Bly. The Lacqui Parle County Historical Centerfeatures many items from Bly’s youth aswell as native artifacts, and the popularEthel Mehlum Doll Collection.Milan: Milan is a leading center of

Scandinavian culture and ethnic arts. TheMilan Village Art School features classesin several folk art forms led by local artists.Montevideo:Montevideo has much to

offer; whether you enjoy learning abouttheir historic pioneer background,finding pleasure in the activities ofthe lazy Minnesota River, or prefertheir unique shops or restaurants. Truly

there is something for everyone. Knownas the City of Parks, the area boasts12 parks covering more than 115 acres,including 3 found along the picturesqueChippewa River. Visit a turn of thecentury village, Historic Chippewa City,with 24 buildings replicating a late 1800’svillage, complete with town square andboardwalk as well as a centrally locatedbandstand/gazebo.Just outside Montevideo, is the Olaf

Swensson Farm Museum, a 17-acrefarmstead, complete with timber-framebarn, gristmill remains and hand cutgranite monuments. The 22-room farm-house rests on a foundation of localgranite and is on the National Register.

WHEATONwww.cityofwheaton.com

Home to the World’s Largest Mallard,Wheaton is famous for Duck Days, ayearly festival with crazy days specials, atractor pull, and historical demonstrations.Walleye fishing is also prevalent andspring walleye season opens two weeksearlier than the state fishing opener. �

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As southern Minnesota transitions from big woods to vast prairie, there are

plenty of surprises in store. Begin with the Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail;

a 39-mile multi use paved biking and walking trail. Originally a railroad line

connecting Faribault and Mankato, it was abandoned in the 1970’s and turned over

to the state. Now the trail has been developed to offer year-round activities as it

stretches through three of the state’s most scenic counties. Discover woodlands,

rolling hills, grassy prairies, and sparkling lakes as you explore Minnesota’s Southern

Lakes area. No less than four state parks, Sakatah Lake, Nerstrand Big Woods,

Rice Lake and Big Island, entice visitors four seasons of the year. Come for such

adventures as fishing, boating, swimming, bird watching, hiking, skiing, snowmobiling,

and much more. There are resorts, campgrounds, historic sites and plenty of eateries

to choose from. You’ll be surprised by the many natural splendors. With so much

to see and do, be sure to bring your camera, and plan to stay just a little bit longer.

ALBERT LEAwww.albertleatourism.org

Albert Lea, The Land Between the Lakes,and home to America’s first Blue ZoneCity. It is nestled between FountainLake and Albert Lea Lake, providingyear-round fun for everyone! Visit ourNational Vitality Center and let us showyou our ongoing initiatives and venue forother communities to build a Blue ZoneProject in their own community. Shoppingenthusiasts will discover unique gift andantique shops in Historic Downtown. VisitMinneSOYta Nice Candle, Soap Factoryand Boutique, Story Lady Doll Museum,the Hayward Quilt Shop, and the FreebornCounty Historical Museum.Enjoy wildlife and beauty along the

Blazing Star Bike Trail, Myre Big IslandState Park, and Edgewater Park, or takea narrated tour on the Pelican Breeze IICruise Boat. Also see beautiful gardensincluding the popular Itasca Rock Gardenand the Danish Park Fountains.

Annual festivals and events include,4th of July Fireworks, Land Between theLakes Triathlon, April Sorensen MemorialHalf Marathon, Eddie Cochran Weekend,BIB Barbeque, Cowboy Mounted Shoot,Freeborn County Fair and The Big IslandRendezvous! The Bay Side Ski Showsentertains crowds weekly with daringjumps and pyramids.

AUSTINwww.austincvb.com

Austin is known as SPAMTOWN® USA,and is the home of the world-famousSPAM® Museum. Lots of fun opportunitiesawait you, from the Jay C. Hormel NatureCenter, the Historic Paramount Theatre,Greibrok’s Mini-History Farm, The HormelInstitute, the Gerard Mansion, the HormelHistoric Home, and so much more! TheHormel Historic Home – complete with anew banquet center, which just openedin November of 2009, seats an additional200 people! With Austin’s best ambiance,as well as all modern audio-visual

Southern Lakes

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capabilities, the new space is available forconferences, business meetings, familygatherings, graduation parties, bridalshowers, weddings, and motorcoachlunches – the possibilities are ENDLESS!

BLUE EARTHwww. blueearthchamber.com

Blue Earth gets its name from the BlueEarth River that encompasses the town.The river was given the Indian name“mah-ko-ta”, meaning Blue Earth for itsblue/green mineral ‘Illite’ and the blue/greenclay found on the banks of the River.Aside from being the birthplace of the

Chocolate Dream, it is also home toMinnesota’s first stained glass window,displayed at the historic EpiscopalChurch. But let’s not forget about thetowering giant who overlooks the town,better known as the Jolly Green Giant.This 55-foot statue attracts over 20,000visitors each year. Green Giant fanscan also visit the new GIANT Museum-featuring Green Giant collectibles.Blue Earth’s festival calendar includes

the Giant Days Festival, the Woodcarversand Quilt Expo and the Holiday Sampleron the Town.

ELLENDALEwww.ellendalemn.com

Ellendale is located just 15 minutes southof Owatonna; offering country style livingin a friendly, quiet community. Theirlovely flower garden and mural depictsthe city’s earlier years.

ELYSIANwww.elysianmn.com

Elysian is at the center of the Sakatah

Singing Hills State Trail. This 39-miletrail is ideal for biking, hiking, skatingor snowmobiling. Located 1 1/2 mileseast is the Okaman Elk Farm & PettingZoo. Featuring elk, miniature donkeys,pygmy goats, alpacas, and a free pettingzoo. Elysian also has a city park andbeach, Klondike Hill, and Le SueurCounty Historical Society Museum.


JANUARY15-16 Southern MN Pond Hockey Championship,

Fairmont 800-657-3280FEBRUARY

4-29Waseca Sleigh & Cutter Festival, Waseca 507-835-771119-20 The Big Freeze and Super Hole

Ice Fishing Tournament, Albert Lea 507-373-2316MARCH

6 12th Annual Variety Show, Austin 507-433-0547APRIL

7 Bluegrass & Country Music Jam, Albert Lea 800-345-841430 102nd Annual New Prague Fireman’s Dance and Drill,

New Prague 952-758-436028-30 Spring Musical, Austin 507-433-0547

MAY21-22 Annual Spring Gospel Concert, Austin 507-433-0966

22 Land Between the Lakes Triathlon,Albert Lea 507-373-2316

28-29 Rice County Steam & Gas Engines Swap Meet& Flea Market, Northfield 800-658-2548

JUNE13-5 Morristown Dam Days, Morristown 507-685-41553-5 8th Annual Flea Market, Austin 507-433-3376

3 Chautauqua, Waseca 507-835-770010-11 Interlaken Heritage Days, Fairmont 800-657-3280

10-11 Eddie Cochran Weekend & Car Show,Albert Lea 507-373-2316

22-25 JuneBug Festival of Music, Northfield 800-658-254823-25 Red Power Tractor Show, Albert Lea 507-373-2316

JULY1-4 Austin’s Fourth of July “SPAMTOWN USA

Freedom Fest,” Austin 507-437-45611-4 Elysian 4th of July Celebration, Elysian 800-507-7787

2-4 4th of July Carnival, Albert Lea 507-373-23164 31st Annual Music Festival, Fairmont 800-657-3280

8-9 Giant Days, Blue Earth 507-526-29169 April Sorenson Memorial Half Marathon,

Albert Lea 507-377-25689 Pontoberfest, Waterville 507-456-01229 Rookie’s Triathlon, Elysian 800-507-7787

13-17Waseca County Free Fair, Waseca 507-835-895819-24 Rice County Fair, Faribault 507-332-2470

19 Trimont Chocolate Festival, Fairmont 800-657-328023-24 Madison Lake Paddlefish Days,

Madison Lake 800-507-778728 Crazy Daze, Northfield 800-658-2548

AUGUST2-7 Freeborn County Fair, Albert Lea 507-373-6965

9-14 127th Annual Mower County Fair, Austin 507-433-186813 Blue Collar BBQ & Art Fest, Faribault 507-32-737216-21 Martin County Fair, Fairmont 800-657-3280

16-21 Steele County Free Fair, Owatonna 507-451-530519-20 Mounted Cowboy Horse Shoot, Albert Lea 507-373-6965

26-27 BIB Kansas City Barbeque Contest,Albert Lea 507-373-3938

SEPTEMBER3-4 Fall Festival, Center Creek Orchard-Fairmont,

800-657-32807-11 Defeat of Jesse James Days, Northfield 800-658-2548

16-17 Dozinky Festival & Cruise Night,New Prague 952-758-4360

16-17 Faribault Airfest & Balloon Rally, Faribault 507-334-438117-18 Tree Frog Music Festival, Faribault 507-334-4381

24 Fall Harvest, Austin 507-437-6082OCTOBER

1-2 Big Island Rendezvous, Albert Lea 507-373-3938NOVEMBER

11-12 Enchanted Holiday Sampler on the Town,Blue Earth 507-826-2916

18-21 The Hormel Historic Home’s 24th Annual ChristmasOpen House, Austin 507-433-4243

Annual Scarfing of the Jolly Green Giant,Blue Earth 507-526-2916

18 Glows Parade, Fairmont 800-657-3280DECEMBER

1-4 St. Olaf Christmas Festival, Northfield 800-658-25489-10 Christmas in the County, Austin 507-437-6082


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FAIRMONTwww.visitfairmontmn.com

Fairmont the “City of Lakes” awaits yourarrival. With five lakes and open prairies,they offer a little something for everyoneno matter what time of the year. Beatthe winter blues by ice fishing, crosscountry skiing, or snowmobiling. Enjoythe summer months by boating, waterskiing, traveling the lakes, taking in theview or simply basking in the sun - anddon’t forget your fishing pole! There areseveral walking and biking trails you canuse year-round for many activities. Withalmost twenty parks in the area there’s alot of open space to relax and enjoy.Whether you’re here for a few hours or

several days, there are many community


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activities to enjoy. Spend the day shoppingor play golf at one of their two beautifullocal courses. Swim at the Aquatic Park,or watch a breathtaking sunset over thelake. If Arts and Culture is what interestsyou, you’ve definitely come to the rightplace. With the Fairmont Opera House,Fairmont Film Society and the Red RockCenter for the arts there’s always somethinggoing on. Take yourself back in time andvisit the numerous historical sites andtheir Pioneer Museum.Come and enjoy the beauty and history

Fairmont has to offer!

FARIBAULTwww.visitfaribault.com

Faribault is a city of great experiences,located just 35 minutes south of the TwinCities metro area, right on Interstate 35. Itserves as the perfect year- round backdropfor a refreshing vacation or family outing.Do you love the outdoors? Faribault has10 area lakes and two rivers, which createthe perfect scene for fishing, boating orcanoeing and don’t forget their cozyresorts for a peaceful nights sleep. Need arestful walk? Faribault boasts 10 miles of

paved trails and is the hub for the SakatahState Trail that will take you on a 45-mileadventure. Your outdoor excursion is notcomplete without a trip to the 750-acreRiver Bend Nature Center.Faribault is as unique as any city you

could ever visit. It is home to theworld famous “Tilt-A-Whirl” and also tothe first cathedral in the USA. FaribaultDairy – are makers of some of the bestblue cheese in the world. Also this area isrich with historic sites. There are morebuildings on the national historic registerin Faribault than in any other city otherthan Minneapolis or Saint Paul.Faribault has a great tradition of festivals

and events. Two of the top festivals insouthern Minnesota can be found here inSeptemberwith theTree FrogMusic Festivaland the Faribault Airfest and BalloonRally (pictured on page 14). The recipefor fun is simple in Faribault.

LE SUEURwww.lesueurchamber.org

Follow the Minnesota River Valley ScenicByway to Le Sueur, where the sign on theHighway 169 hill, north of town, says,“Welcome to the Valley of the Jolly GreenGiant”. Here you will find the Le SueurMuseum with the Green Giant InterpretiveRoom and the 1859 home of W.W. Mayoand much more! See for yourself!

MADISON LAKEwww.madisonlake.govoffice2.com

Madison Lake has an abundance ofarea parks; three city parks, four lakeparks plus campgrounds. The SakatahSinging Hills State Trail passes along thenorth part of Madison Lake showcasingthe beautiful lakes of Ballantyne,Madison & Duck.


RIver Bend Trail - Faribault

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MEDFORDwww.medfordminnesota.com

Halfway between Faribault and Owatonnayou’ll find Medford, a shopping andtourism mecca. The Medford Outlet Centeroffers quality shopping at exceptionalprices with more than 45 premiumstores. Plus the Medford Straight RiverPark & Medford Swimming Pool.

MONTGOMERYwww.montgomerymn.org

Montgomery is the Kolacky capital ofthe world! The town has been trumpetingthe praises of this traditional Czechfruit-filled pastry at its Kolacky Dayscelebration in July since 1929. Franke’sBakery is a great place to try one anytime of the year. Also be sure to includeBig Honza’s Museum of Unnatural Historyon your list of things to do, it’s a hoot!

MORRISTOWNwww.ci.morristown.mn.us

Come and celebrate Dam Days, heldannually the 1st weekend after MemorialDay. Visit the Old Morristown Watermill

and watch the mill’s watergate as it’sopened to power the 140–year oldgrinding mill. Don’t miss the bargains atthe All City Garage Sale the first weekendin August 2011.

NEW PRAGUEwww.ci.new-prague.mn.us

New Prague is a Czech communitycomplemented by unique shops, ethnicrestaurants, historic places of interestand small town charm. Dožínky® (doe-shink’-key), a Czech Harvest Festivalpatterned after the “Old Country” original,is held on the third Saturday of Septembereach year.

NORTHFIELDwww.visitingnorthfield.com

History buffs know Northfield as thetown that stopped Jesse James fromrobbing the local bank. The CVB offers afun, self-guided tour called “OutlawTrail” which includes historic buildings,campsites, country roads and a few littletowns along the way. It is also one ofthe first towns in Minnesota to providehistory podcast tours. It travels through

several buildings that are architecturallysignificant as well as outdoor communityspaces in downtown.You can either down-load the podcasts onto your own device orthe Northfield Historical Society hasiPods that are free to checkout.This lovely river town carries the

reputation as one of Minnesota’s artdestinations with outdoor concerts,recitals, plays and festivals. Thousandsof visitors come to Northfield eachDecember to enjoy the famous St. OlafChristmas Festival.

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Browse the art galleries and boutiquesfor one-of-a-kind crafts, and indulge yourtaste buds at any of the charming, artsyand homey restaurants sprinkled through-out Northfield.

OWATONNAwww.visitowatonna.org

Owatonna is located just 45 minutessouth of the Twin Cities. It is home tothe second largest tourist attraction inthe state: Cabela’s, World’s ForemostOutfitter. This 150,000 sq foot mega-store,

features retail plus museum-qualityanimal displays in their natural habitats.The Steele County Free Fair also resideshere, held each August; it’s Minnesota’s

largest and named one of the top eventsin North America! Tour the MinnesotaState Public School Orphanage Museum,home to over 10,000 kids from 1886-1945. See the Village of Yesteryear and

a Louis Sullivan-designed bank. With24 parks in the area, it is a mecca forpeople who enjoy outdoor recreation. Thevery popular Kaplan’s Woods Parkwayoffers 225 acres for hiking, biking, inlineskating, and cross-country skiing, plusLake Kohlmier’s beach and fishingdocks. Owatonna offers accommodationsfor every type of traveler, as well as avariety of restaurants for all tastes andoccasions.

WASECAwww.discoverwaseca.com

Get away to Waseca, one of the friendliesttowns you will ever find. Stroll throughdozens of trendy boutiques, coffee housesand a variety of dining options. Discoveran eclectic mix of art galleries, antiquesand pottery. Looking for recreation?Try the Waterpark, hiking and bikingtrails, campgrounds and golf. Lovehistory? Visit Waseca County HistoricalSociety Museum. If your interest isagriculture, please visit FarmAmericawhich portrays rural Minnesota life fromthe mid-19th century to present. We havea great quality of life, manufacturing,strong business support, good careers anda safe environment. Just a 50-minute drivesouth of Minneapolis.

WATERVILLEwww.watervillemn.com

Waterville is a warm and friendlycommunity. Conveniently nestled betweenLake Tetonka & Sakatah, it is a wonderfulplace for world-class fishing and otherwater related activities. And, it is on theSakatah Singing Hills State Trail. �

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You’ll be surprised to discover that some of the Midwest’s most spectacular

landscapes can be found right here in Minnesota within the Mississippi River

Valley and Historic Bluff Country. From eagle spotted skies over charming river

towns to the massive stalactites in Minnesota’s only underground caves, fascinating

sights, unique attractions, and magnificent adventures await. Exploration of this

breathtaking country is made easy by travel along a portion of the Great River

Road National Scenic Byway, numerous state trails, and a variety of other scenic

byways. More than two dozen state parks, outdoor activities centered in, on, or near

the beautiful Root River, means packing your camera is a must. With so many

unique B&B’s in the area, it’s easier to stay longer and enjoy the diverse eateries,

museums, and specialty shops.

CANNON FALLSwww.cannonfalls.org

A scenic riverside community offering awide variety of opportunities for relaxationand recreation!

GRAND MEADOWwww.cityofgrandmeadow.com

Located on Highway 16, betweenRochester and Austin. They have anannual Meadow Fest event in the Summer.

HISTORIC BLUFF COUNTRYwww.bluffcountry.com

The scenery of historic Bluff Countryprovides a beautiful backdrop for manyactivities.Brownsville offers amazing beauty and

unlimited river recreation.Caledonia is the “Wild Turkey Capital

of Minnesota” located in the “Heart ofQuilt Country.”Chatfield is home to the free Music

Lending Library - the only library of itskind in the world.Eitzen is where turkey, deer and pheasant

are abound.Fountain, home of the Fillmore County

Historical Center, and known as the “SinkHole Capital Of The USA”.Harmony is a treasure to discover.

Book a tour through Minnesota’s largestAmish Community. Tour Amish farms andworkshops to discover a bounty of Amish

goods. Another gem is the Niagara Cave,which gets its name from the 60-footwaterfall that flows over the craggyrock. Visit the Hobo Camp, located next tothe Harmony-Preston Valley Bike Trail,and Slim’s Woodshed, where you can seea collection of wood-carvings from allover the world. Antique lovers will enjoy

Harmony’s new Antique Mall and severalshops with antique offerings.Hokah perches on a limestone knoll

surrounded by Mount Tom, ThompsonCreek, Lake Como, a natural waterfall andRoot River.Houston boasts one of the best trail-

heads in the state, featuring the HoustonNature Center and Alice the Owl.La Crescent is the “Apple Capital of

Minnesota”. When you visit be sure totravel down the Apple Blossom Scenic Drive.Lanesboro offers the Root River Bike

Trail, theatre, arts, Amish tours, shopping,a local winery, fine dining and B&B’s.Historic Lanesboro is the “B&B Capital”

Mississippi River Valleyand Historic Bluff Country

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and “Rhubarb Capital of Minnesota”.LeRoy is located on the Shooting Star

Scenic Byway. Shooting Star Bike Trail,Lake Louise State Park, a DNR fishingpier, and Pioneer Prairie Wind TowerInformation Kiosk and Lookout areamong the sites to visit.Mabel is the home to the Mabel House

Hotel, built in 1879.Preston is a quaint village with the

Root River State Bike Trail going rightthrough the community and the RootRiver bordering the edge of town. Campat the Maple Springs Campgroundlocated on a century old farm, nestled in avalley formed by Forestville Creek.Rushford boasts of its four seasons

setting in the hardwood forest. Visit theHistoric Depot & School Museum, enjoythe Creekside Children’s Play Park.Spring Grove boasts a SWIM Center,

artist’s gallery, playhouse, and celebratesits Norwegian heritage with Syttende Maiin May.Spring Valley is one of the sites along

the Laura Ingalls Wilder Highway, hometo the Methodist Church Museum, theWashburn-Zittleman House Museum andis considered a town that agriculture built.Wykoff: Visit the National Historic

District, the limestone gymnasium, andthe brick jail built in 1913, which is now aunique bed and breakfast.

LAKE CITYwww.lakecitymn.org

This beautiful historic river town islocated along the shoreline of Lake Pepin,

with the magnificent Mississippi Riverrunning through it. It’s the birthplaceof waterskiing and every year the cityremembers its claim to fame with WaterSki Days. Featuring music, crafts, carnival,car show, parades, and of course, waterski shows.Enjoy all the natural splendor of the

surrounding bluffs, the lake and vistasthis city has to offer. There’s Hok-Si-LaPark and nearby Fontenac State Park forexcellent bird watching and camping.Visit the Chickadee Cottage Café for a

delightful homemade lunch. Housed in anearly 1900 home surrounded with gardens.Pearl of the Lake Paddleboat, modern

day replica of the grand riverboats thattraveled the Mississippi River in the1800’s, is run by twin paddlewheels.Her name emphasizes the historicsignificance of paddlewheel boats andthe freshwater pearl industry on the upperMississippi River.With a climate controlledlower deck and an open air upper deck,along with two restrooms, a full servicebar, and catering services, there is plentyof room for up to 115 people.

KELLOGGwww.wabashamn.org

Kellogg is a tiny town of 400, withimmense beauty and is one of southeasternMinnesota’s treasured towns. Enjoy horse-back riding and camping at ZumbroBottoms, or host a reunion at Kellogg’sCity Park. Visit SVJ Creative Designs,Minnesota’s largest concrete statuaryproducer and retailer. Also home of AnnieB’s Candy Company.

MANTORVILLEwww.mantorvilletourism.com

Rich in history, its many limestonebuildings have placed Mantorville on theNational Registry of Historic Places.

Featuring the oldest working courthousein Minnesota, melodramas at the OperaHouse and people coming from milesaround just to eat at the Hubbell House.

Other popular attractions include manymuseums and historic sites, as well asshopping, antiquing, and their festivalsand events. Be sure to take in the OldFashioned 4th of July and the ZumbroBend Rendezvous in September, andexplore life in a fur trading camp!



JANUARY15 Wit, Wisdom and Wine, Rochester 507-328-2300

FEBRUARY3-13 Rochester Winterfest IX, Rochester 507-282-8629

APRIL15-16 Rochester World Festival, Rochester 507-289-8960

29-May 1 Bluff Country Studio Art Tour,Historic Bluff Country 800-428-2030

MAY6-8 100 Mile Garage Sales, various cities 888-999-261920-22 Preston Trout Days, Preston 888-845-2100

JUNE1-4 Cannon Valley Fair, Cannon Falls 507-263-341617-26 Rochesterfest, Rochester 507-285-876920-25 Red Wing Plein Air Arts Festival,

Red Wing 651-388-756922-July 31 Great River Shakespeare Festival,

Winona 800-657-497224-26Wasioja Civil War Days, Wasioja 866-313-868724-26Water Ski Days Festival, Lake City 800-369-4123

JULY4 Old Fashioned Fourth of July,Mantorville 866-313-8687

4 4th of July Fireworks, Lake City 877-525-324816-17 Cannon Falls Wine and Art Festival,

Cannon Falls 651-270-087925-21 Olmsted County Fair, Rochester 507-282-986230-31 58th Annual Swiss Fest, Berne 800-322-2478

AUGUST5-7 River City Days, Red Wing 651-301-970027-28 Dobie Days, Harmony 800-428-2030

SEPTEMBER10-11 Marigold Days, Mantorville 866-313-8687

24-25 Zumbro Bend Rendezvous,Mantorville 507-635-5508

30-Oct 2 Fall Foliage Days, Harmony 800-247-6466OCTOBER

1-2 Johnny Appleseed Days Festival,Lake City 800-369-4123

29-30 Fall Festival, Mantorville 866-313-8687NOVEMBER

12 Tundra Swan Watch, Winona 800-657-497218-20 Holiday Fest, Harmony 800-247-6466

DECEMBER3 Olde Fashioned Christmas, Mantorville 866-313-8687

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PETERSONwww.petersonmn.org

Home to the 1877 Peterson StationMuseum; featuring a large collection ofhistorical items from the local area.

PINE ISLANDhttp://cc.pineislandmn.com

Pine Island possesses some of the mostunique historic buildings in the area. TheOpera House block of Main Street includesPine Island City Hall and its trademarkclock tower, the Creamery Building andButter Factory, as well as others.

RED WINGwww.redwing.org

This picturesque city brims withhistoric charm and natural beauty, allcomplemented by one-of-a-kind shopsand restaurants. Spend a quiet daybrowsing its famous antique and potteryshops, poking through the farmers’market (summer) or sauntering alongthe riverfront watching boats cruisethrough the marina.


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ROCHESTERwww.rochestercvb.org

Rochester offers magnificent attractions,restaurants, theatre, and entertainment,plus it’s home to world-famous MayoClinic. Witness the earliest innovationsthrough touring Mayo Clinic and theMayowood Mansion, Dr. HenryPlummer’s House, and the OlmstedCounty History Center. Rochester playshost to a symphony orchestra, art center,repertory, civic & children’s theaters, andyear-round performances by top-nameentertainers at the Mayo Civic Center.

WELCH - TREASURE ISLANDRESORT & CASINOwww.ticasino.com

Try your luck at over 2,500 slots, 44blackjack tables and a 550-seat highstakes bingo hall, all in a Caribbeanthemed casino. Enjoy mouth-wateringfood in a variety of restaurants, explorethe features of two breathtaking hoteltowers, plus a 3,000 seat Island EventCenter featuring some of the biggestnames in entertainment (like MartinaMcBride and Brooks & Dunn), and a24-lane Brunswick Bowling Alley!More unique offerings include a marina,18-hole golf course (Mt. Frontenac), anda 150-passenger cruise ship.

WINONAwww.visitwinona.com

Historic Island City Winona is one of themost beautiful Great River Road towns,nestled between limestone river bluffs andthe stunning Mississippi River. Locatedon the Mississippi River, the MinnesotaMarine Art Museum is in a uniquebuilding and landscaped with over 60,000plants. They feature four galleries ofworld-class art and artifacts includingImpressionism and Hudson River Schoolpaintings, marine art, folk art sculpturesand traveling exhibits.

ZUMBROTAwww.ci.zumbrota.mn.us

Zumbrota has one of Minnesota’s lastcovered bridges (1869) measuring nearly120 feet long and 15 feet wide. �

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HENDRICKSwww.hendricksmn.com

Settled on the shores of Lake Hendricks,along the Minnesota and South Dakotaborders, they welcome visitors forevery season of the year! Sundays duringthe summer enjoy music in the parkor play a round of golf any day, on theirnine-hole course overlooking beautifulLake Hendricks.

IVANHOEwww.ivanhoe.govoffice.com

Ivanhoe’s annual celebration of its PolishHeritage is their Polska Kielbasa Days.A few miles south find the AndersonHoney Farm, a replica of the honey-processing house as seen in “Little Houseon the Prairie.”

JACKSONwww.jacksonmn.com

Located along the beautiful Des MoinesRiver, at the junction of US Hwy 71 andInterstate 90. A community rich inhistory, Jackson promotes a healthy activelifestyle for all ages, values its youth,celebrates cultural diversity and nurturesa learning environment.Eight county parks, the Kilen Woods

State Park, and dozens of nearby lakesmake the area a natural haven for outdoorfun. Jackson County is host to threeunique and challenging golf courses for

your enjoyment and a disc golf course.Fort Belmont is a replica of a civilian

Fort built in Jackson County in the 1860’s.Features include a stockade and log cabinwhere settlers survived Indian uprisings,sod house, blacksmith shop, 1873 Lysgardfarmhouse, 1902 Delafield church, grist

More than a few surprises await you in Minnesota’s Prairie Land, where wind

and water provide energy and fun. The area around Lake Benton—”the

Buffalo Ridge” has nearly 2000 wind turbines and is known as theWindpower

Capital of the American Midwest. But that’s not the only way to harvest the wind.

Worthington’s Windsurfing Regatta, in June, attracts the nation’s best windsurfers

to the “fastest lake in the nation”, Lake Okabena. Another surprise is Minnesota’s

only alkaline wetland, appropriately named Salt Lake, and a birdwatchers haven

for the large variety of birds it attracts.

Natures wonders are just part of the reason to come to Minnesota’s Prairie Land.

Some of the state’s richest history can be explored here. Pipestone National Monument

is an area of ethnological, archeological and historical significance, and should not be

missed. Museums, locally quarried Sioux Quartzite buildings, festivals, celebrations, and

so much more, make this Prairie Land the perfect Vacation Land.

Prairie Land

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mill and museum. The site is also hometo undisturbed prairie. In 2010 the Fortlookout tower was relocated to the currentFort Belmont site. The tower provides abreathtaking view of the Des MoinesRiver Valley. It’s easy to find, just offInterstate 90, exit 73.Several community events are held

throughout the year including a Farm &Home show, Race Days, Jackson CountyFair, Corn Cob Open Golf event, andHoliday Fest parade & fireworks. Jacksonalso hosts the fastest ½-mile dirt track ina five-state area. Jackson Speedway Racesare held every Saturday night fromMay toLabor Day.Stay at a lovely Bed & Breakfast, the

KOA Kampground, or try any one oftheir five motel lodging accommodations.Welcome to the community!

LAKE BENTONwww.lakebentonminnesota.com

Located on the Buffalo Ridge andknown as the “Windpower Capital” of theAmerican Midwest with over 685 windturbines. Learn about the positivebenefits of Windpower Energy at theHeritage & Windpower Learning Center.Also home to hunting, fishing, camping,water recreation, cross country skiing,hiking and horse trails and beautifulhistoric sites that provide information onthis city and the state.

LAKEFIELDwww.lakefieldmn.com

Found in Southwest Minnesota, Lakefieldoffers visitors a great view from theobservation tower at Sandy Point CountyPark. It is also home to the Jackson

County Museum, featuring wetlandhistory. Be sure to visit the communitypool and waterslide.

LUVERNEwww.luvernechamber.com

The sights and sounds of prairie andhistory come alive in Luverne, Minnesota.Located in the cornerstone of the state,Rock County; this thriving communityfeatures a wide variety of experiences.A few miles north of Luverne, see and

feel the prairie at Blue Mounds StatePark, home to a thriving herd of bison,abundant nature trails, camping facilities,and Sioux quartzite cliffs that are perfectfor rock-climbers. Experience bison closeup when you go on a bison-buggy rideat Prairie Heights Bison. A few miles tothe west, the Northern Tallgrass PrairieNational Refuge – TOUCH THE SKY

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JANUARY15 Winterfest, Worthington 800-279-2919

20-22Winter Crazy Days, Jackson 507-847-3867FEBRUARY

13 Freeze Your Caboose Run & Walk,St. James 507-375-3333

19 Casino Night, Madelia 888-941-7283MARCH

12 Luverne Home & Living Show, Luverne 507-449-238819 Jackson Farm & Home Show, Jackson 507-847-386719 Wild Turkey Shoot Out, Worthington 800-279-2919

APRIL7-10 The Wizard of Oz, Windom 800-7Wi-NDOM

29-30 21st Annual Luverne Citywide Rummage SalesLuverne 507-449-2388

MAY26-29 Larry Olsen Music Festival,Lake Benton 507-368-9577 x2

JUNE3-4 Shades of the Past Car Show & Cruise,

Marshall 507-401-19623-5 Buffalo Days, Luverne 507-449-2388

4 27th Annual Buffalo Days Parade & Arts in the Park,Luverne 888-283-4061

6-12 Riverfest, Windom 507-831-275210-12Windsurfing Regatta & Unvarnished Music Festival,

Worthington 800-279-291911 End-O-Line Railroad Park & Museum Open House,

Currie 507-763-370811 Lake Shetek State Park Open House, Currie 507-763-3256

16 Franks-A-Lot, Jackson 507-847-386717-21 Mountain Lake Pow Wow Festival,

Mountain Lake 507-427-299920-26 St. James Rail Road Days, St. James 507-375-3333

26 Watertower Festival, Pipestone 507-825-331626 Fort Belmont JAM Session, Jackson 507-847-3867

JULY4 Old Fashioned 4th of July at Pioneer Village,

Worthington 800-279-29198-10 Days of ‘87, Slayton 507-836-8534

8 International Festival, Worthington 800-279-29198-9, 15-16, 22-23Wilder Pageant, Walnut Grove 877-945-2872

8-10 Park Days, Madelia 888-941-728314 49th Annual Hot Dog Nite & Wiener Dog Races,

Luverne 888-283-406115-17 Race Days Weekend, Jackson 507-847-3867

16 3rd Annual Music, Meals & Meander,Luverne 888-283-4061

16 Art in the Park, Jackson 507-847-386723-24 Keepers Pow Wow, Pipestone 507-825-3734

23-24 Love of the Land Rendezvous, Pipestone 507-825-447429-30Watonwan County Relay For Life,

St. James 507-375-3333AUGUST

3-7 Jackson County Fair, Jackson 507-847-386711 Corn Cob Open Golf Event, Jackson 507-847-386712-14 Benton-Fremont Days, Te Tonka Ha Rendezvous

& Hehoka Knap In, Lake Benton 507-367-9577 x217-20 Cottonwood County Fair, Windom 800-794-636618-21 Sounds of Summer, Marshall 507-537-186527 5th Annual Art Rocks, Luverne 888-283-4061

SEPTEMBER10-11 Fort Belmont Rendezvous, Jackson 507-847-386710 King of Trails Marketplace, various cities 507-368-957710 Highway 75 Market Day, Pipestone 507-825-331616-17 King Turkey Days, Worthington 800-279-291917 Younger Brothers Capture, Madelia 888-941-7283

24 61st Annual Tri-State Band Festival,Luverne 888-283-4061

NOVEMBER12 4th Annual Holiday Studio Tour, Luverne 888-283-406118-19 Razzle Dazzle Celebration, Madelia 888-941-7283

DECEMBER1-2 Christmas at Pioneer Village, Worthington 800-279-29192-4 St. James Winter Carnival, St. James 507-375-333311 BARC Holiday Showcase, Windom 507-831-23752-4 15th Annual Winterfest, Luverne 888-283-4061

Sod House at Fort Belmont

PRAIRIE offers visitors 800 acres ofnative prairie operated in partnershipbetween US Fish and Wildlife and theBrandenburg Prairie Foundation.One of the four communities featured

in Ken Burns 2007 WWII documentary –“THE WAR,” Luverne offers visitors thechance to reconnect with the history.Newly renovated exhibit space at theRock County Courthouse Square features

two floors of exhibits that build on thestory told in the Burns documentary.The Rock County Veterans Memorial


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http://luvernechamber.com/

http://jacksonmn.com/

Building is also home to the BrandenburgGallery, a photographic gallery of famednature photographer and Luverne nativeJim Brandenburg.Experience live theatre…or watch

the latest movie at the Palace Theatre.Summers are the perfect time for anexperience at the drive-in. The VERNEDrive-In Theatre is a great place to enjoythe movies on a wonderful summer night.Any time of the day…you will find

something to do in Luverne, Minnesota.

MADELIAwww.visitmadelia.com

There are many adventures waiting foryou in Madelia. Begin by canoeing,horseback riding, or golf. Afterward takea dip in the outdoor pool, slide down awaterslide or even take in a hot movie,where tickets are still only $5.00!

MARSHALLwww.visitmarshallmn.com

While exploring Southwest Minnesota, besure to discover Marshall. This communityis centrally located and serves as theretail, educational and cultural hub of theregion. Being located just off 3 majorhighways makes them a short drive fromanywhere. Marshall can also be your basefor hunting, as southwest Minnesota is awonderful place for some great hunting.Trips for Pheasant, Turkey and Trophy

Deer are well rewarded year after year.Visit the quaint antique shops in the area,later enjoy a meal at one of Marshall’svaried restaurants offering fine diningor a more casual atmosphere, alwayssomething for everyone’s liking.

MOUNTAIN LAKEwww.mountainlakemn.com

Mountain Lake has Minnesota’s oldestrunning community celebration.MountainLake PowWow Festival. Enjoy the uniqueshops, historical sights and a variety ofethnic cuisine found only here. Be sure to

see the recently upgraded HeritageVillage,it features a collection of buildings fromthe community. Such as a MennoniteHouse with a collection of furniture builtby the first settlers from 1874.

MURRAY COUNTYwww.murray-countymn.com

Murray County is deep in the Southwestcorner of Minnesota. Take advantage oftheir many natural resources and beautifulprairie vistas. Whether you want to relax

by the lakeshore or immerse yourselfin history, Murray County welcomesyou to explore. Offering something foreveryone; hunting, fishing, camping,golf, shopping, dining, museums andseveral festivals and events scheduledthroughout the year. Plan your visitaround the Murray County Fair heldin August.Avoca: The lakeshore of Lime Lake

wraps around the north and west sideof Avoca. There is a county park with apicnic shelter, horseshoe pits and several


http://www.visitmarshallmn.com/

http://murray-countymn.com

campsites. Don’t miss the tennis court,half pipe skate area, volleyball court, andplayground equipment at the MemorialBall Park.Chandler: Is located in the scenic

ChanarambieValley. Because of the glacialperiods, Chandler is surrounded by somevery interesting and unique land formations.North of Chandler is the famous “BuffaloRidge”. The tip of the ridge is over 1900

feet above sea level and is one of the highestpoints in the state.Currie: Home to the End-O-Line

Railroad Park and Museum, they recentlyadded a rehabilitated caboose. Enjoy thescenic 6-mile loop of the Casey JonesTrail near Lake Shetek State Park. Currieis the place to be to celebrate the 4thof July with a spectacular fireworks showat dusk.

Dovray: Features a history of settlerswho came to the area from Dovre,Gudbrandsdalen in Norway. Today, theNorwegian traditions continue in thisquaint town.Fulda: Featuring an authentic Civil

War cannon and historic train depot.Fulda encompasses the north shore ofbeautiful Seven Mile Lake, a 177-acrerecreational lake. Join in the fun at theFulda Wood Duck Festival the thirdweekend in June.Hadley: Located on the shore of

Summit Lake and home to the HadleyButtermakers baseball team.Iona: Visit the Lundblad Prairie, a

native prairie on the edge of Badger Lake,and imagine how the early pioneers musthave seen this land.Lake Wilson: Likesomanyotherpleasant

towns in Southwest Minnesota, agricultureremains the largest industry in the area.Slayton: The county seat of Murray

County is a bustling small town withquaint shopping and dining experiences.The city is home to several beautiful


Midwest Mounted Re-enactors, End-O-Line Railroad Park & Museum

Winnewissa Falls - Pipestone

http://pipestoneminnesota.com/

http://www.co.lincoln.mn.us/


parks and a state of the art swimmingfacility; Slaytona Beach West.

PIPESTONEwww.pipestoneminnesota.com

Explore Pipestone and you will discover aprairie gem, rich in culture and history.Visit America’s Best Idea, the PipestoneNational Monument, the site of thesacred soft red stone quarries used tofashion ceremonial pipes is found here.Walk the ¾-mile trail through the coteauprairie to view the pipestone quarriesand Winnewissa Falls. Watch a livedemonstration of pipes and crafts beingcarved by Native American crafters atthe Pipestone Indian Shrine inside theInterpretive Center. Pipestone featuresone of Minnesota’s largest historicdistricts with twenty Sioux quartzitebuildings built before 1900. FortPipestone and the numerous shops andboutiques offer interesting and uniquegifts. The Pipestone Performing ArtsCenter, a 300-seat theater, provides theregion with the best in entertainment,concerts, and a Red Hat Extravaganza.Mark your calendar for the fourth

weekend in July for the Keepers Pow-Wowand Native American Music Concert.The same weekend, you can step back intothe early 1800s to a time of buckskinnersand fur traders at the Love of the LandRendezvous. Join us in August for thePipestone Civil War Days.

SANBORNwww.cityofsanbornmn.org

The McCone Sod House in Sanbornshows what settlers, like the Ingallsfamily, endured as they tamed the land.

ST. JAMESwww.stjameschamberofcommerce.com

Picture this! As you enter town, one of

the many “welcome to St. James” signsdraw you in. Begin to explore the varietyof opportunities and activities that awaityou: A full service campground onbeautiful St. James Lake which offers youpier fishing, a “Lets Go Fishing” programfor seniors, a 4-mile paved bike andwalking trail, and in the winter, abundantice fishing! St. James’s outdoor pool witha 150’ water slide and beautifulMemorialPark skirt the lake with playgrounds,picnic shelters, skateboard park, bandshell, disc golf, tennis courts, softballfields, sand volleyball and a Gold Strand18-hole Golf Course. Wonderful eateriesand unique shopping greet you on MainStreet. Community Theater, concerts,plays, a movie theater, and communityclub complete the package. Not a camper?That’s ok, because they also have a newlyremodeled, always friendly Super 8 Motel!

TRACYwww.tracymn.com

Tracy is known nationwide today for theannual Labor Day weekend Box Car DayCelebration and also boasts plenty ofrecreational opportunities.

http://walnutgrove.org/

http://stjameschamberofcommerce.com/

http://www.super8.com


TYLERwww.tyler.govoffice.com

Come celebrate the Danish heritageof Tyler! Country living steeped inDanish Tradition, Tyler is home to theNissemaend and Aebleskivers. You’ll findNissemaends, adorning most businessesand many homes, welcoming you to Tyler.They feature over 30 lakes, an 18-holegolf course, historic Danebod Church &Folk School, swimming pool, parks andover 150 businesses to serve you. Locatedonly 25 minutes fromMarshall or Pipestoneand 1.5 hours from Sioux Falls, SD.

WALNUT GROVEwww.walnutgrove.org

Walnut Grove is known nationwide asthe childhood home of Laura IngallsWilder. Through her “Little House on thePrairie” books we all learned about thisarea, which still has the plum thickets,big rock and spring on the originalhomestead, and Pa’s bell is still hangingin the English Lutheran Church. There isalso the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museumwith letters, photos and other memorabilia.Another feature is the Kelton Doll

Collection. Time your visit for thepopular Wilder Pageant, an outdoor liveperformance of Laura’s life or theLaura-Nellie Look Alike Contest. VisitPlum Creek’s 205-acre park. WalnutGrove also has unique shopping offeringantiques, souvenirs, gifts and more!

WINDOMwww.winwacc.com

A lively growing city and the county seatof Cottonwood County, is Windom.Connecting visitors that travel alongHighways 60 and 71 with easy access toa large variety of retail and servicebusinesses. Windom connects those

searching for the arts, history andrecreation at the Business, Arts andRecreation Center (BARC), the site ofconcerts and plays throughout theyear, the Cottonwood County HistoricalMuseum and Remick Art Gallery, theU.S. Fish and Wildlife Service andnumerous parks. Windom connects arearesidents and visitors with manyfestivities including horse shows stagedat the Windom Arena throughout thesummer, the Riverfest celebration thesecond full weekend in June andCottonwood County Fair in late August.

WORTHINGTONwww.worthingtonmnchamber.com

Beautiful Lake Okabena is the crownjewel of Worthington, which attractswindsurfers from around the nation toits Windsurfing Regatta each June. Theannual Regattatakes place inconjunction withthe UnvarnishedMusic Festival.Lake Okabena –labeled “FastestLake in theNation” – is alsohome to theMidwest SpeedQuest. There are plenty more goings onyear-round, too. Among them are thecommunity’s storied King Turkey Day(September), highlighted by the GreatGobbler Gallop turkey race, and theInternational Festival (July), whichoffers up a mesmerizing serving ofmulticultural cuisine and entertainment.For those who enjoy history, PioneerVillage is a spot to recall the life of our

ancestors, and the Historic Dayton Housegives visitors the chance to tour theVictorian-style home of the Dayton’sdepartment store founder. �

http://www.winwacc.com/

http://www.windom-mn.com/

http://www.barcwindom.com/

http://www.fws.gov/midwest/windom/


http://www.worthingtonmnchamber.com/

http://cannonriverwinery.com/

http://fieldstonevineyards.com/

http://ghvwine.com/

http://glacialridgewinery.com/

http://indianislandwinery.com/

http://morgancreekvineyards.com/

http://scenicvalleywinery.com/

http://www.whitewaterwines.com/

34 2011 Explore Southern Minnesota www.ExploreSouthernMinnesota.com ��

We look UP to our neighbors…Along the way, theWillmar Lakes Area is your grand entrance to Minnesota’s south.

Explore this area and its numerous lakes, parks, golf courses, trails, theatre, dining and shopping.

SPICER -DICKERSON’S RESORTwww.dickersonsresort.com

A mere 100 miles west of Minneapolis/Saint Paul, but steeped in the traditionsof hospitality from a much slower time,you can relax in ideal style. Pack yoursuitcases and bring the entire family tostay at Dickerson’s Resort on LakeFlorida near Spicer, where family reinssupreme and memories are lasting.It’s no surprise that owners Bob and

Connie Dickerson tend to every detailwhen it comes to guests of one of their13 beachfront cottages. Walk along thesandy shoreline, or dive in with anarmload of toys. Bring your own boat orplay carefree on one of the Dickersons’paddleboats, hydro bikes, kayaks, canoes,fun bugs or bicycles. Indulge yoursweet tooth with a plate of home-bakedchocolate chip cookies and Sundaymorning doughnuts. Monday night is

pizza picnic time. You may not be at allsurprised at the wonderful memories youcan create in this picturesque region ofMinnesota, especially if you are an angler.But there are plenty of surprises for you.Explore the area and the communities ofSpicer, New London, Atwater & Willmar;all have great shops, restaurants, theater,wineries, playgrounds, tennis courts andbike trails. Take on a 30-foot indoorclimbing wall at Prairie WoodsEnvironmental Learning Center. Theirsite encompasses 500 acres, and providesoutstanding environmental education andoutdoor experiences to all ages.

WILLMARwww.willmarlakesarea.com

It’s not that far away, so don your walkingshoes for a day in Willmar, consideredone of the most livable small cities in theUnited States. Not too small, Willmar getsbig points for the pioneer and Native

American artifacts, Great Northern steamlocomotive, pioneer family house andneedlecraft and quilting pieces on displayat the Kandiyohi County HistoricalSociety. Willmar’s Mikkelson BoatCollection showcases Falls Flyer ClassicSpeedboats, while Schwanke’s Museumrolls out a classic lineup of tractors, carsand fire trucks. Take in performances atThe Barn Theater and the WillmarEducation andArts Center. Also, stock upon the “world’s best lefse” from House ofJacobs before your “Home on the Range”tour at J & L Bison Ranch. Spend lesstime driving and more time relaxing whenyou play, bike, swim, or snowmobile inthe Willmar Lakes area. There are morethan 100 lakes providing popularrecreational opportunities, the 22-mileGlacial Lakes Trail, and Sibley StatePark. Rain or shine, indoors or out,there’s always something fun waiting justfor you. �

http://dickersonsresort.com/

http://willmarlakesarea.com/

�� www.ExploreSouthernMinnesota.com 2011 Explore Southern Minnesota 37

AmericInn Properties1 Caledonia2 Jackson3 Owatonna

State Historic SitesA Lac qui Parle Mission 320-269-7636B Birch Coulee Battlefield 507-697-6321C Fort Ridgely 507-426-7888D Harkin Store 507-354-8666E Jeffers Petroglyphs 507-628-5591F Mayo House 507-665-3250G Historic Forestville 507-765-2785H Lower Sioux Agency 507-697-6321

Wineries/Vineyards1 Alexis Baily Vineyard2 Cannon River Winery3 Crofut Family Vineyard4 Falconer Vineyards5 Fieldstone Vineyards6 Garvin Heights Vineyards7 Glacial Ridge Winery8 Hinterland Vineyards & Winery9 Indian Island Winery10 Morgan Creek Vineyards & Winery11 Olde Country Winery12 Painted Prairie Vineyard13 Post Town Winery14 Salem Glen Vineyard & Winery15 Scenic Valley Winery16 Whitewater Wines

MAP KEY

Minnesota River Valley (Pg.4-13)

Southern Lakes (Pg.14-21)

Mississippi River Valley &Historic Bluff Country (Pg.22-25)

Prairie Land (Pg.26-33)

Our Neighbors (Pg.34-35)

See Directory for Advertiser Key on Pages 38-39.

Historic Bluff Country88-mile national scenic

byway through Minnesota’s“driftless” area.

Apple BlossomShort byway highlights appleorchards along Mississippi

River valley bluffs.

King of TrailsHistoric US Hwy 75 runsfrom Winnipeg, Canadato Galveston, Texas.

Minnesota River Valley287-mile national scenic

byway highlights wildlife andearly Minnesota history.

Glacial Ridge Trail220-mile route through

rolling hills and past hundredsof lakes created by glaciation.

Great River RoadA portion of the nationalscenic byway following the

Mississippi River.

Shooting StarShort route highlights

wildflowers & remnants ofMinnesota’s native prairie.

Scenic Byways/Historic Highways State Parks/Recreation Areas1 Big Stone Lake 320-839-36632 Lac qui Parle 320-734-44503 Camden 507-865-45304 Lake Shetek 507-763-32565 Spilt Rock Creek 507-348-79086 Blue Mounds 507-283-13077 Kilen Woods 507-831-2900 x2218 Upper Sioux Agency 320-564-47779 Fort Ridgely 507-426-784010 Monson Lake 320-366-379711 Sibley 320-354-205512 Glacial Lakes 320-239-286013 Flandrau 507-233-980014 Minneopa 507-389-546415 MN Valley Rec Area 952-492-640016 Sakatah Lake 507-362-443817 Nerstrand Big Woods 507-333-484018 Rice Lake 507-455-587119 Big Island 507-379-340320 Lake Louise 507-352-511121 Forestville/Mystery Cave 507-937-325122 Carley 507-932-300723 Whitewater 507-932-300724 Frontenac 651-345-340125 John A. Latsch 507-634-684926 Great River Bluffs 507-643-684927 Beaver Creek Valley 507-724-2107

Travel Information Centers• Albert Lea TIC 507-448-3311• Beaver Creek TIC 605-757-6599• Bigstone Cty Historical Society Museum,

Ortonville 320-839-3359• Chippewa Cty Historical Society,

Montevideo 320-269-7636• Dresbach TIC 507-895-2005• Harmony Area Promotion Association

507-886-2469• Historic Bluff Country IC 800-428-2030• LaCrescent Chamber 507-895-2800• Lanesboro Area Chamber 507-467-2696• Luverne C of C 507-283-4061• MN Machinery Museum 507-768-3522• New Ulm Chamber 507-233-4300• Nicollet Cty Historical Society,

St. Peter 507-934-2160• Pipestone Chamber & VB 507-825-3316• Preston Area Tourism 507-765-2100• Red Wing VCB 651-385-5934• Redwood Area Chamber 507-637-2828• Wabasha-Kellogg Chamber 651-565-4158• Willmar CVB 320-235-3552• Winona CVB 507-452-0735• Worthington TIC (May-Oct) 507-376-3352

4 St. Peter5 Worthington6 Marshall

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MinnesotaRiver Valley

PrairieLand

SouthernLakes

Mississippi River Valley& Historic Bluff Country

Locate properties on Map,Pg 36-37

The advertisers & participants in this directory are only a sampling of the many destinations and attractions in Southern Minnesota.

Directory & Map Codes


ACCOMMODATIONSAmericInn Lodge & Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-847-2444110 Belmont Lane, PO Box 47 - Jackson

AmericInn Lodge & Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-537-94241406 E Lyon Street - Marshall

AmericInn Lodge & Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-376-45001475 Darling Drive - Worthington

AmericInn Motel & Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-931-6554700 N Minnesota Avenue - St. Peter

AmericInn of Caledonia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-725-8000508 North Kruckow Avenue - Caledonia

AmericInn of Owatonna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-455-1142245 Florence Avenue - Owatonna

Asahi Loft of Harmony . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-226-3735255 5th Street SE - Harmony / www.asahiloft.com

Best Budget Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-451-07761180 W Frontage Road - Owatonna

Budget Host Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-283-4678745 State Avenue - Owatonna / www.budgethostmn.com

Comfort Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-283-9488801 S Kniss Avenue - Luverne44 rooms, indoor pool + hot tub. Free continental breakfast. Clean…No pets please.

Comfort Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-444-08182345 43rd Street NW - Owatonna / www.choicehotels.com

Country Inn & Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-455-9295130 Allan Avenue Southwest - Owatonna / www.countryinns.com

Dickerson Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .320-354-427213194 2nd Street NE - Spicer / www.dickersonsresort.comA Minnesota vacation resort for families.

Fiksdal Hotel & Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-288-26711215 2nd Street SW - Rochester / www.fiksdalhotel.com

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites . . . . . . . . . . . .507-446-89002365 43rd Street NW - Owatonna / www.hiowatonna.com

Kahler Grand Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-285-272220 2nd Avenue SW - Rochester / www.kahler.com

Madelia Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-642-2004620 Haynes Ave NE - Madelia

Microtel Inn & Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-446-0228150 St. John Drive - Owatonna / www.microtel.com

Microtel Inn & Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-723-8200502 East Rock Street - Springfield / www.mircrotelinn.com30 rooms, pool & spa, free continental breakfast, free wirelessinternet & local and long distant calls.

Oakdale Motel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-451-54801418 South Oak Avenue - Owatonnawww.owatonnalodging.com

Redwood Valley Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-644-57001382 E Bridge Street - Redwood Fallswww.redwoodvalleylodge.com

Sheep Shedde Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .320-523-50002425 West Lincoln Avenue - Olivia / www.sheepsheddeinn.com

Super 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-283-95411202 S Kniss Avenue - Luverne36 clean rooms, free continental breakfast. Free wifi, restaurantattached, truck parking, pets welcome w/fee.

Super 8 Motel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-451-03801150 West Frontage Road - Owatonna / www.super8.com

Super 8 Motel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-800-80001210 Heckman Court - St. James / www.super8.com

Village House Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .888-450-4322Hwy 14 & Knopp Valley Dr - Winonawww.villagehouseinn.comFour distinctive guest rooms, each with full private bath. Continentalbreakfast. Handicap accessible.

ATTRACTIONSAugust Schell Brewing Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-354-5528PO Box 128 - New Ulm / www.schellsbrewery.com

Brooktree Golf Course . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-444-24671369 Cherry Street - Owatonna

Holmberg Orchard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-762-313112697 325th Street - Vesta / www.holmbergorchard.com

Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum . . . . . . . . . .877-945-2872330 Eighth Street - Walnut Grovewww.walnutgrove.orgLearn the history of Ingalls family through collections in a series ofunique buildings.

Minnesota Machinery Museum . . . . . . . . .507-768-35225262 220th Ave - Hanley Falls / www.mnmachinerymuseum.com

Minnesota Marine Art Museum . . . . . . . . .866-940-6626800 Riverview Drive - Winonawww.minnesotamarineart.orgExperience one of the best collections of "art inspired by water" inthe United States.

Mississippi Explorer Cruises . . . . . . . . . . .877-647-7397Riverside Park - La Crosse, WI / www.mississippiexplorer.com

Niagara Cave . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-837-6606PO Box 444 - Harmony / www.niagaracave.com

Redwood Area Community Center . . . . . .507-644-2333901 Cook Street - Redwood Fallswww.redwoodareacommunitycenter.com

SPAM® Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-LUV-SPAM1101 Main Street North - Austin / www.spam.com16,500 square-foot facility features sophisticated exhibits and displayspertaining to the history of Hormel foods and its various products.

Spring Grove SWIM Center . . . . . . . . . . .507-498-SWIM600 Maple Drive - Spring Grovewww.springgrovemn.comFeaturing zero depth entry, splash and play for youngsters, flumesand drop slides. Groups welcome.

BED & BREAKFASTSThe Bunkhouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-896-2080PO Box 38 - Houston / www.houstonbunkhouse.com

Northrop Oftedahl House B&B . . . . . . . . .507-451-4040358 East Main Street - Owatonna / www.northrophouse.com

CAMPGROUNDS & RV PARKSAutumn Woods RV Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-990-29836600 11th Ave SW – Rochester / www.autumnwoodsrvpark.com93 sites, full hookups including wifi. Big, friendly shuttle to MayoClinic downtown.

Crystal Springs RV Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-684-240615649 SW 35th Ave - Ellendale / www.crystalspringsrvresort.com

Maple Springs Campground . . . . . . . . . . . .507-352-205621606 County 118 - Preston / www.maplespringscampground.com

Prairie’s Edge Casino Resort . . . . . . . . . . .866-293-21215616 Prairie’s Edge Lane - Granite Fallswww.prairiesedgecasino.com

Rothenburg Campground . . . . . . . . . . . . . .877-785-577033 South Cass Avenue - Springfield / www.springfieldmn.org38 electrical/water hook-ups, 2 bathhouses with showers. Onedisposal station. Reservations – pay in advance.

St. James Tiell Park Campgrounds . . . . . .507-375-3241Tiell Drive - St. James

CASINOSJackpot Junction Casino Hotel . . . . . . . . .800-WIN-CASH39375 Cty Hwy 24 - Morton / www.jackpotjunction.com

Prairie’s Edge Casino Resort . . . . . . . . . . .866-293-21215616 Prairie’s Edge Lane - Granite Fallswww.prairiesedgecasino.comLocated three miles south of Granite Falls on Highway 23, offeringguests everything they will need for an ideal getaway.

Treasure Island Resort & Casino . . . . . . . .800-222-70775734 Sturgeon Lake Road - Welch / www.ticasino.comWhere having fun is always a sure bet!

CHAMBERS/CVBSAlbert Lea CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-345-84142566 North Bridge Avenue - Albert Lea / www.albertleatourism.org“The Land Between the Lakes” welcomes you to year round fun!

Austin CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-444-5713104 11th Avenue NW, Suite D - Austin / www.austincvb.comAustin is home to the SPAM® Museum, Hormel Institute, greathotels, and so much more!

Blooming Prairie AreaChamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-583-4472138 Hwy 218 - Blooming Prairie / www.bloomingprairie.comBlooming Prairie home of the best “Old Fashioned July 4thCelebration” come and enjoy!

Blue Earth Chamber & CVB . . . . . . . . . . . .507-526-2916113 South Nicollet Street - Blue Earth / www.blueearthchamber.comCome see our 55-foot Jolly Green Giant Statue.

Fairmont CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-657-3280PO Box 976 - Fairmont / www.visitfairmontmn.comFairmont the “City of Lakes” awaits your arrival! Enjoy greatlodging, history and outdoor recreation.

Faribault Area Chamber & Tourism . . . . . .800-658-2354530 Wilson Avenue - Faribault / www.visitfaribault.comYour experience awaits you - Lakes, nature, history, art, shopping andrecreation combine to make Faribault a great place to live or visit.

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CHAMBERS/CVBS continuedGranite Falls CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .320-564-4039646 Prentice Street - Granite Falls / www.granitefallschamber.comVisit Granite Falls – an outdoor playground for all seasons!

Greater Mankato CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-657-47331 Civic Center Plaza, Ste #200 - Mankatowww.visitgreatermankato.comGreater Mankato - shopping, galleries, sports and the great outdoors…all waiting to be explored.

Harmony Area Chamber of Commerce . . .800-247-646615th 2nd Street NW, PO Box 141 - Harmonywww.exploreharmony.comExperience “Harmony” by visiting this small active and unique townin Southeastern Minnesota.

Historic Bluff Country . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-428-203015 2nd Street NW, PO Box 609 - Harmony / www.bluffcountry.com

Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce . . . .507-847-386782 West Ashley Street - Jackson / www.jacksonmn.comJackson Speedway Racing, Historical Fort Belmont, Kilen WoodsState Park, Interstate Bike Trail & Camping.

La Crescent Chamber of Commerce . . . . . .800-926-9480109 S Walnut St, Suite B - La Crescent / www.lacrescentmn.com

Lac qui Parle CountyEconomic Development Authority . . . . . . .320-598-7976600 6th Street - Madison / www.lqpeda.comContact Pam Lehmann anytime to start or expand a business in Lacqui Parle County!

Lake City Tourism Bureau . . . . . . . . . . . . . .877-LAKECITY101 West Center Street - Lake City / www.lakecitymn.orgA historic river town located along the shoreline of Lake Pepin.

Lanesboro Area Chamber of Commerce . .800-944-2670100 Milwaukee Rd, PO Box 348 - Lanesboro / www.lanesboro.com

Lincoln County Promotion & Tourism . . . .507-368-9577106 S Center, PO Box 205 - Lake Benton / www.co.lincoln.mn.usWorth going out of the way.

Luverne Area Chamber/CVB . . . . . . . . . . .888-283-4061213 E Luverne Street - Luverne / www.luvernechamber .comLocated with the Brandenburg Gallery, Herreid Military Museum,Heritage Gallery, Veterans Memorial and Kahler Terrace.

Mantorville Chamber of Commerce . . . . . .866-313-8687Box 44 - Mantorville / www.mantorvilletourism.comMantorville – Historic town with museums, shops, casual & finedining, parks & trails.

Marshall CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-537-1865317 W Main Street, PO Box 325 - Marshallwww.visitmarshallmn.comSelected as one of “The Best Small Towns in America” in 1993, 1995and 2002.

Montevideo Area CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-269-5527301 N 1st St, Suite 100 - Montevideo / www.montechamber.comCity of Parks, Hunting, Fishing, Canoeing, Kayaking, Golfing, Biking,Shopping, Historical Sites, Sweetland and more!

Murray County Tourism . . . . . .507-836-6148 ext #1192848 Broadway Avenue - Slayton / www.murray-countymn.comCome and see for yourself the acres of opportunity in Murray County!

New Ulm CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .888-463-98561 N Minnesota Street, Box 862 - New Ulm / www.newulm.comThe “City of Charm&Tradition,”with history, festivals, German heritage& attractions – exceptional dining, shopping, lodging, and recreation.

Northfield CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-658-2548PO Box 198 - Northfield / www.visitingnorthfield.comVisiting Northfield, an artsy historic rivertown, means uniqueexperiences, whatever the reason or season.

Olivia Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . .877-375-CORN909 West DePue, Box 37 - Olivia / www.oliviachamber.orgVisit “The Corn Capital of the Midwest” and the World’s LargestCorn Monument.

Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce . .800-423-6466320 Hoffman Drive - Owatonna / www.visitowatonna.orgHome to Cabela’s, Village of yesteryear, Louis Sullivan-designedbank, Orphanage Museum and much more!

Pipestone Area Chamber & CVB . . . . . . . .800-336-6125117 8th Avenue SE - Pipestone / www.pipestoneminnesota.comWide variety of festivals, Indian culture, historic district, & wind towers.

Preston Area Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .888-845-2100PO Box 657 - Preston / www.prestonmntourism.com

Redwood AreaChamber & Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-657-7070200 South Mill Street - Redwood Falls / www.redwoodfalls.orgWe offer a wide variety of seasonal attractions, historic sites, plentyof shopping and fine restaurants.

Rochester CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-634-827730 Civic Center Drive SE, Ste 200 - Rochesterwww.visitrochestermn.com

Southern Minnesota Lakes Region . . . . . .800-507-7787PO Box 95 - Elysian / www.mnlakesregion.comHome of the Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail. Cities include:Elysian, Madison Lake, Morristown, and Waterville.

Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce . .866-723-899033 South Cass Avenue, PO Box 134 - Springfieldwww.springfieldmnchamber.orgEnjoy our swimming pool with waterslide, Go-Karts, Disc Golf,Golf, Paved Trails & Camping!

St. James Area Chamber of Commerce . . .866-375-2480514 2nd Avenue South, PO Box 346 - St. Jameswww.stjameschamberofcommerce.comPier fishing, bike & walking trail, an outdoor pool w/ waterslide,18-hole golf course, theater and more!

St. Peter Tourism & Visitors Bureau . . . . .800-473-3404101 S Front Street - St. Peter / www.stpeterchamber.orgVisit beautiful historic St. Peter for unique shops, museums,Gustavus Adolphus College and more!

Tatanka Bluffs Corridor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-637-2828200 S Mill Street - Redwood Falls / www.tatankabluffs.com

Travel Southwest Minnesota . . . . . . . . . . .507-283-28772848 Broadway Avenue - Slayton / www.travelsw.orgPromoting the counties in the southwest corner of Minnesota.Golfing, shopping, camping, historical sites, events, fishing and more.

Tyler Area Community Club . . . . . . . . . . . .507-247-3430106 E Hwy - TylerCountry living steeped in Danish tradition, Tyler is home to theNissemaend & Aebleskivers.

Visit Winona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-657-4972160 Johnson Street - Winona / www.visitwinona.com

Waseca Area Visitors Bureau . . . . . . . . . . .888-9WASECA111 North State Street - Waseca / www.wasecachamber.comDiscover Waseca and experience a city full of opportunity and fun.

Western Minnesota Prairie Waters CVB .866-866-5432323 W Schlieman Avenue - Appleton / www.prairiewaters.comExplore the prairies, canoe routes, ethnic & culture heritage, festivalsand recreational opportunities.

Willmar Lakes Area CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-845-87472104 Hwy 12 East - Willmar / www.willmarlakesarea.comIn beautiful Kandiyohi County where the lakes begin! Bike, swim,snowmobile, fish & relax!

Windom Area CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-794-6366303 9th Street - Windom / www.winwacc.comA lively growing city with the Cottonwood County HistoricalMuseum BARC and a variety of events for any season.

Worthington Area Chamber/CVB . . . . . . .800-279-29191121 Third Avenue - Worthington / www.worthingtonmnchamber.comVisitors will find a variety of lodging accommodations, restaurants,service stations, shops and attractions of interest.

DININGBrauhaus Restaurant & Bar . . . . . . . . . . .877-375-CORN111 Main Street - Lucan / www.brauhausbrewhall.com

Max’s Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .320-523-28332425 West Lincoln Avenue - Olivia / www.maxsgrillonline.com

Roadhouse Bar & Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-342-2006713 Main Street - Wabasso / www.wabassoroadhouse.com

Sportsman’s Grille . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-214-18884255 West Frontage Road - Owatonna

FESTIVALS/EVENTSCorn Capital Days . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .877-375-CORNOlivia

Nanotek Trek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-421-1885PO Box 8 - Rushford / www.rintek.orgNanotech Trek, June 18-19, 2011. Bicycle up to 50-mile routes inbeautiful SE Minnesota.

Riverside Days . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-723-8990PO Box 134 - Springfield / www.springfieldmn.orgJune 25, 26, 27

Steele County Free Fair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-423-64661525 S Cedar Avenue, PO Box 650 - Owatonna / www.scff.org

HERITAGE SITESHistoric Gilfillan Farm Estate . . . . . . . . . . .507-249-363328269 State Hwy 67 - Morganwww.redwoodcountyhistoricalsociety.com

Minnesota State Public School OrphanageMuseum & Historic Boys’ Cottage 11 . . .507-774-7369540 West Hills Circle - Owatonna / www.orphanagemuseum.com

Redwood County Historical Society . . . . .507-641-3329342 S Mill Street - Redwood Fallswww.redwoodcountyhistoricalsociety.com

Steele County Historical Society . . . . . . . .507-451-14201448 Austin Rd - Owatonna / www.steelecohistoricalsociety.org

HOSPITALSpringfield AreaHealth Care Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-723-6201625 N Jackson Avenue - Springfield / www.sahcf.com

PAGEANT/THEATERWilder Pageant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .888-859-3102PO Box 313 - Walnut Grove / www.walnutgrove.org

RESORTSDickerson Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .320-354-427213194 2nd Street NE - Spicer / www.dickersonsresort.comA Minnesota vacation resort for families.

SHOPPINGPage Synder Drug Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .888-523-2110801 East DePue Avenue - Olivia

The Preferred Outlets at Medford . . . . . . .507-455-41111-35 at Exit 48 - Medford / www.preferredoutlets.com

WINERIES & VINEYARDSCannon River Winery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-263-7400421 Mill Street West - Cannon Fallswww.cannonriverwinery.com

Fieldstone Vineyards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-627-WINE252 2nd Street East - Redwood Fallswww.fieldstonevineyards.com

Garvin Heights Vineyards . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-474-94632255 Garvin Heights Road - Winonawww.ghvwine.com

Glacial Ridge Winery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .320-796-946315455 Old Mill Road - Spicerwww.glacialridgewinery.com

Indian Island Winery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-234-622218018 631st Avenue - Janesvillewww.indianislandwinery.com

Morgan Creek Vineyards & Winery . . . . .507-947-354723707 478th Avenue - New Ulmwww.morgancreekvineyards.com

Scenic Valley Winery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-467-2958101 Coffee Street - Lanesborowww.scenicvalleywinery.com

Whitewater Wines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-722-005010832 Fischer Hill Drive - Plainviewwww.whitewaterwines.com

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