27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Rochester, MN

Things To Do In Rochester, MN

 

Apart from Minneapolis and St. Paul, what is the largest city in Minnesota?

Rochester, a charming city with fantastic attractions that appeal to all, is the answer.

Rochester is a fantastic city, regardless of whether you enjoy hiking or are thrilled just hearing the term “museum.”

Here are 27 of Rochester, Minnesota’s greatest and most enjoyable activities.

 

1. History Center of Olmsted County and Mayowood Mansion

The History Center of Olmsted County is a great place to learn about the history of Olmsted County.

It features beautiful historic buildings and incredibly intriguing attractions.

Charles H. Mayo of the Mayo Clinic used to reside in the Mayowood Mansion, which you should also visit.

Through teaching, the Olmsted County History Center transforms visitors into subject-matter experts.

It also hosts fantastic events, such as summertime outdoor film screenings.

In the meantime, one of Minnesota’s wealthiest homes is Mayowood Mansion.

Anyone interested in Rochester attractions should visit the Mayowood Mansion and the History Center of Olmsted County.

This community is really interested in finding entertaining ways to teach history.

You can feel ecstatic about this county when you visit one of these sites.

Address: 3720 Mayowood Rd SW, Rochester, MN 55902, United States

2. Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center

Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center is located close to Lanesboro, Minnesota.

You must come here if you want to go on a significant nature adventure.

Educating guests of all ages on the importance of protecting the environment is the main goal of Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center.

There are many things you may do to exercise your body and stimulate your mind.

In addition to high ropes and a rock-climbing wall, there are almost 9 kilometers of hiking paths here.

The Discovery Center has a lot of attractions within.

If you want to get away from the city, the Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center is a fantastic destination.

Along with many other fascinating facts, you might recall some of the stuff you studied in science class years ago.

It’s also fantastic since it allows you to connect with nature.

The Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Address: 28097 Goodview Dr, Lanesboro, MN 55949, United States

3. The Chateau

The Chateau was founded in 1927, when vaudeville was the most popular form of entertainment.

The Vaudeville house has endured despite shifting tastes over the years.

This is fortunate since it’s one of the most beautiful theaters in the country right now.

Originally called the Chateau Theatre, it was primarily a movie theater for a while.

But thanks to upgrades, it’s now perfect for other events like live theater and concerts.

It is a theater appropriate for a king or queen, and its architecture is similar to that of a castle.

One of the best ways to explore Rochester’s culture is to visit the Chateau.

The elegant environment makes a huge impact, even if you’re only going to watch a movie.

The Chateau is for those who have an equal passion for historic structures and the arts.

Address: 15 1st St SW, Rochester, MN 55902, United States

4. Children’s Dance Theatre

Take your kids to a show at the Children’s dancing Theatre in Rochester to introduce them to the wonders of dancing.

There are talented dancers in this organization ranging in age from five to college.

Their awe-inspiring performances have enthralled both locals and tourists for almost 35 years.

The owners genuinely love dancing and using it to benefit people.

They regularly host educational activities and make every effort to use the arts to benefit the community.

Their dancers move with such grace and resolve that their performances are also vibrant joys.

A vital component of the Minnesota arts scene is the Children’s Dance Theatre.

After watching a show here, your kids might want to start dancing themselves.

Well-known tales like “The Jungle Book” and “Cinderella” have been used in earlier renditions.

5. LTS Brewing Company

Ordering a weak beer at a dive pub isn’t the only way to get a beer in Rochester.

You can see how fantastic Rochester breweries are by visiting LTS Brewing Company.

Come enjoy some excellent suds and amiable service.

Great beer is served by LTS Brewing Company and can be taken home or consumed on tap.

They also have their own line of craft sodas, with great flavors like Blackberry Sage and StraZzberry.

What’s more, they have a food truck, with dishes made from fresh and healthy ingredients.

At LTS Brewing Company, savor delicious beer, soda, cuisine, or all three.

The outside seating area and the taproom both contribute to the lively and enjoyable ambiance.

Address: 2001 32nd Ave NW, Rochester, MN 55901, United States

6. Rochester Trolley & Tour Company

Do you want to see the city’s attractions in a more historic manner?

You have the opportunity to do just that with Rochester Trolley & Tour Company.

Tickets are available for a variety of top-notch tours.

Furthermore, even if it isn’t on a cable, there’s nothing better than traveling in a trolley.

The Rochester City Tour is a well-liked tour.

But there are also more specialized ones, such as the Haunted Rochester Trolly Tour and the Jolly Trolley Holiday Lights Tour.

In case you prefer a more private trip, you may also hire them for private tours.

You may explore this amazing city in a variety of ways with the Rochester Trolley & Tour Company.

They serve as an excellent introduction to Rochester’s stories, some of which you may not otherwise hear.

See which of their tours may pique your interest by looking through them.

7. Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo

When you visit Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo on the same day, you can enjoy a trip to the zoo and a fantastic park.

It would be impossible to view all of Oxbow Park in a single day due to its immense size.

You must, however, make time during your day to see the Zollman Zoo and all of its magnificent creatures.

Oxbow Park has more than 600 acres in size.

You can camp here if you’re feeling very adventurous.

The animals of Zollman Zoo are unique in that they all reside in Minnesota.

Both Zollman Zoo and Oxbow Park demonstrate the proper approach to large-scale conservation.

All of these animals and all of this land are valuable and ought to be preserved to the greatest extent feasible.

Byron, Minnesota is the location of some attractions.

With a few exceptions, they are both open daily. Oxbow Park is open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Zollman Zoo is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Address: 5731 County Rd 105 NW, Byron, MN 55920, United States

8. Pescara

Any fish lover should visit Pescara, an incredible seafood restaurant.

Make reservations for a table here as soon as possible.

There are several options available if seafood isn’t your thing.

Freshness is the main focus of the Pescara cuisine.

You can definitely taste the sophisticated flavor when you try their grilled salmon or their daily fish special.

Their ribeye and filet, chicken pomodoro, and wild mushroom risotto are a few non-fish options.

Pescara is located in downtown Rochester at the DoubleTree Hotel.

Seafood or not, it embodies the ideal of what a great restaurant ought to be.

They are open daily from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m.

Address: 150 Broadway Ave S, Rochester, MN 55904, United States

9. Mayo Civic Center

Rochester is home to the Mayo Clinic, an incredible medical facility, and the Mayo Civic Center, an awesome performance and convention venue.

To enjoy the exciting activities at the Mayo Civic Center, you don’t need to be ill.

Here, you can witness some of the best events and performers.

The Mayo Civic Center hosts many exciting events.

There are conventions, big-budget concerts, and sports.

From its terrace, you may also catch a fantastic view of the Zumbro River.

The Mayo Civic Center is the site of many of Rochester, Minnesota’s enjoyable activities.

It’s undoubtedly one of Minnesota’s most hippest venues right now.

The Mayo Civic Center has locations to explore that give you a sense of youth and freedom.

Address: 30 Civic Center Dr SE, Rochester, MN 55904, United States

10. Rochester Symphony Orchestra and Chorale

Fantastic instrumental and vocal performances are presented by the Rochester Symphony Orchestra and Chorale.

Classic tunes are beautifully performed by the 70-member orchestra and the more than 60-member chorale.

Even while not every performance includes the chorale, you can be sure that every presentation will be fantastic nonetheless.

Their talents and efforts are not limited to the concert hall.

Their local programs are excellent, particularly when they deal with young people.

Don’t forget to attend Coda performances.

If you’re searching for free activities in Rochester, Minnesota, these are fantastic.

These are performances by RSO members that incorporate more contemporary styles like rock and jazz.

The chorale is the icing on the cake for the Rochester Symphony Orchestra, which has been a vital component of the city for over a century.

Make sure to reserve some tickets by looking at their upcoming season schedule.

The experience and all of the incredible music you hear should captivate you.

Address: 1530 Greenview Dr SW #120, Rochester, MN 55902, United States

Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Duluth?

11. Chester Woods Park

Perhaps you would like to explore and enjoy the wilderness for a portion of your trip to Rochester.

If so, visit Chester Woods Park, a great place to camp.

Chester Woods Park, which located near Bear Creek in Eyota, Minnesota, is a great place for a family camping vacation.

Chester Woods Park can be enjoyed without camping.

Enjoy a day here by having a picnic, kayaking, or hiking a route.

Even while all of those things are fantastic, nothing compares to spending the night here, sleeping beneath the stars.

Attractions such as Chester Woods Park demonstrate the importance of preserving nature.

This weekend, come here for a trek or camping excursion.

The best times here are when you focus on the here and now and simply enjoy the atmosphere of nature.

Address: 8378 14 Highway Southeast, Eyota, MN 55934, United States

12. Rochesterfest

One of the best attractions in Rochester comes back every year for nine days in June.

It’s time for friends, food, and fun at Rochesterfest.

Come to Rochesterfest and say hello to summer and plenty of wonderful folks.

For many years, Rochesterfest has been a popular event.

In addition to enjoying delicious food and watching amazing live music, you can complete their triathlon.

They have a free trolley that makes getting there simple.

Rochesterfest is the must-do event in this city in June.

There are plenty of locations to go, sights to view, and activities to engage in.

Today, prepare for the upcoming Rochesterfest.

13. Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial

The Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial is the place to honor the heroes of our country.

Veterans from many wars and backgrounds are commemorated here in Southeast Minnesota.

It’s an extremely poignant event, particularly if you have served or know someone who has.

The main attraction at Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial is the Wall of Remembrance.

Here, more than 3,000 courageous locals are honored.

Make sure to visit the 50 Trees of Remembrance, one for each state, along the Walk of Remembrance.

The ideal way to spend Memorial Day or Veterans Day may be to visit Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial.

It is open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

It’s free to enter.

Address: 300 7th St SW, Rochester, MN 55902, United States

14. Rochester Civic Theatre

Excellent entertainment is only one aspect of a superb theatrical production.

Additionally, it might be a sight to witness.

Artists must provide their finest performance when performing live because there is no way to abruptly yell “Cut” in front of an audience.

The best way to appreciate the wonders of live theater is to see a show at the Rochester Civic Theatre.

Throughout the year, this theater hosts performances that span a wide range of genres and media.

At this location, you can witness a heartbreaking tragedy, a hilarious farce, and amazing dance performances.

Every time you visit, the experience is completely captivating.

The greatest of Rochester culture may be found at the Civic Theatre.

To find out what shows are coming up, visit their box office or browse their website.

To express your passion for this theater, you can also make a one-time or recurring donation.

Address: 20 Civic Center Dr SE, Rochester, MN 55904, United States

15. Downtown Peace Plaza

The Downtown Peace Plaza offers a wealth of sights and experiences.

This attraction in Rochester, Minnesota has everything you could possibly need for a good day or night out.

The Downtown Peace Plaza is a peaceful and entertaining spot throughout the year.

The Downtown Peace Plaza will undoubtedly make you feel better if your stomach and/or pocketbook are empty.

It offers some of Rochester, Minnesota’s best dining and retail options.

In the summer, there’s a market with fantastic outdoor shows.

If you’re in Rochester, Minnesota tonight, be sure to visit the Downtown Peace Plaza.

Try booking a hotel near your destination if you have a longer journey planned.

You should make time to visit as many of the Downtown Plaza’s many fantastic locations as you can.

Address: Rochester, MN 55902, United States

16. Quarry Hill Nature Center

Do you want to observe some native Minnesota animals in a secure setting?

The thing to do is go to the Quarry Hill Nature Center.

This area is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including finned and flying creatures.

This area is home to 35 distinct animal species.

Raptors, some of the most ferocious birds of prey in the world, are visible.

Additionally, there is a huge aquarium filled with stunning creatures.

Their colony demonstrates the bees’ diligence, and their preserved objects exude a subdued grandeur.

The Quarry Hill Nature Center is a great place to go if you’re looking for free activities in Rochester, Minnesota.

Try to visit there this weekend.

With the exception of four days, it is open all year.

Address: 701 Energy Parkway NE, Rochester, MN 55906, United States

17. Silver Lake Park

Cheap activities in Rochester, Minnesota don’t have to be dull or unfulfilling.

Silver Lake Park is a prime illustration of this.

Along with a ton of other things to do, you’ll have the amazing Silver Lake to view and utilize.

People can be seen powering various boats and rowing kayaks and canoes in Silver Lake Park.

In addition to tandem bikes and other fun land equipment, these can be rented.

Investigate the paths on your preferred boat, including on foot.

There are many more things to enjoy, like a pool, picnic area, and skate rink.

Nothing compares to Silver Lake Park in terms of tourist attractions with fantastic activities.

For a fantastic time, go there now or as soon as you can.

Did we mention that they have a playground and grounds for softball and soccer?

Every day of the week, Silver Lake Park is open from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Address: 770 W Silver Lake Dr NE, Rochester, MN 55906, United States

18. Plummer House

One of the most significant individuals in Rochester, Minnesota, and the entire medical community worldwide is Dr. Stanley Plummer.

In addition to sharing a beautiful home with his wife Daisy, he assisted in founding the Mayo Clinic.

For the best examples of Rochester architecture, visit the Plummer House.

The Tudor-style Plummer House exudes grandeur and has a beautiful wine-like appearance.

With gardens that give you the impression that you are entering a different world, the surrounding region is equally amazing.

Although there aren’t many tours available, you should definitely arrange one.

The Plummer House and other Rochester landmarks demonstrate the city’s rich history and population.

On Wednesdays from June through August, tours are offered from 12 to 6 p.m.

The admission fee is $10 for adults and $5 for children.

Address: 1091 Plummer Ln SW, Rochester, MN 55902, United States

19. Calvary Episcopal Church

You can visit Calvary Episcopal Church on a day other than Sundays.

Being the city’s oldest church, this is a truly unique aspect of the neighborhood.

Calvary Episcopal Church has had its first brick chapel since 1962, and people are still drawn to it because they want to experience the spirit that is inside its walls and flowing through them.

Calvary Episcopal Church is unique among Minnesota’s many outstanding churches.

The Olmsted County Historical Society designated it a historic site, and it has been lovingly preserved.

It’s easy to understand why visitors are so moved by this place’s stunning altar, stained-glass windows, and oasis garden.

Visit Calvary Episcopal Church if you’re looking for places to go in Rochester, Minnesota that can help you feel more connected to your spiritual self.

It might also help you rekindle some of the emotions you’ve been lacking.

You may see a wonderful religious community at one of their services, in addition to a historic edifice.

Address: 111 3rd Ave SW, Rochester, MN 55902, United States

20. Rochester Farmers Market

The Rochester Farmers Market is a lovely place to go for delicious food and wonderful company.

There are several amiable merchants here offering vegetables so delicious that you’ll start coming up with new ideas right away.

Along with lots of interesting crafts, the Rochester Farmers Market also provides fantastic meats, dairy products, and flowers.

All year long, the Rochester Farmer Market is open.

Graham Park has Wednesday Markets from mid-June to September and Summer Saturdays from May to October outside.

On Saturdays in the fall and winter, it takes place indoors.

The Farmers Market is a must-see for Rochester’s shopping and sightseeing.

It’s always going to be fantastic, regardless of the season you visit.

To learn more about the hours of the Rochester Farmers Market, visit their website.

Address: 35 Fairgrounds Ave SE, Rochester, MN 55904, United States

21. Heritage House Victorian Museum

The Heritage House Victorian Museum is one of the most interesting tourist destinations close to downtown Rochester.

It is a museum containing significant historical artifacts, including its own narrative.

This museum is a must-see if you’re looking for locations to visit that are connected to Rochester’s history.

Timothy and Eliza Whitling, who lived during the Victorian Era, once called this museum home.

The abandoned house was scheduled to be demolished in the 20th century.

Louise Hill, a Rochester native, battled to keep it intact, nevertheless.

It has since developed into one of Rochester, Minnesota’s most popular attractions.

The “Victory Museum” is a fitting name for the Heritage House Victorian Museum.

There are lots of interesting and instructive locations to see in Rochester.

Tours of the Heritage House Victorian Museum are available Tuesday through Thursday and on Sundays from June through August.

The hours for tours are from 1 to 3:30 p.m., and appointments are available.

Adults pay $5, while students pay $3.

Address: 225 1st Ave NW, Rochester, MN 55901, United States

22. Salem Glen Vineyard and Winery

If you are an absolute wine enthusiast, you should visit Salem Glen Vineyard and Winery near Rochester.

In addition to producing fantastic wine, this destination offers you a unique rural experience.

As you enjoy the delicious wines, you may get the impression that you are in a romance film.

Salem Glen Vineyard and Winery is tucked away from the city in the Zumbro River area, surrounded by rolling hills and blue skies.

Since their founding in 2006, they have operated as a family business.

Fridays from May through September offer wood-fired pizza in addition to wines.

They also provide a ton of entertaining activities, such as scavenger hunts and bingo.

The Salem Glen Vineyard and Winery is a must-see destination for wine lovers.

You’ll get to experience a lot of beauties and sample a lot of amazing wines.

For details on their tasting and tour itineraries, see their website.

Address: 5211 60th Ave SW, Rochester, MN 55902, United States

23. Rochester Art Center

The Rochester Art Center may be the greatest location in Rochester, Minnesota to experience culture.

Its location next to the Zumbro River adds to its stunning appearance.

However, the excellent artwork inside is what distinguishes it as one of Rochester’s cultural attractions.

The unpredictable nature of the Rochester Art Center makes it a lot of fun.

Even if you have been there before, you never know what you will see.

This museum need to be at the top of your list of attractions to see, regardless of how many times you’re in Rochester.

Even if some of the work at the Rochester work Center is difficult to fully comprehend, all of it is guaranteed to be engaging.

It is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesdays through Sundays.

Admission is $5 for adults and free for those under 21.

Address: 40 Civic Center Dr SE, Rochester, MN 55904, United States

24. Apache Mall

One of Rochester’s top tourist destinations is the city’s biggest shopping center.

Any shopaholic should love Apache Mall because it’s a pleasant shopping mall with a wonderful layout.

One of the greatest things to do in Rochester, Minnesota is to spend money or peruse the shelves.

Apache Mall is a great place to find something you love, whether it’s fashion, technology, sports, or something else entirely.

In addition to 87 stores, there are many excellent dining options.

For a fun-filled evening, come here at night.

If you’re looking for inexpensive activities in Rochester, Minnesota, Apache Mall could be something to stay away from.

However, there aren’t many better attractions in Rochester if you want to spend some cash on some extravagance.

Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. are the hours that Apache Mall is open.

Address: 52 US-14, Rochester, MN 55902, United States

25. Douglas State Trail

Although there are many lovely places in the US to visit, Rochester is particularly noteworthy because of attractions like the Douglas State Trail.

There are a lot of folks that can enjoy this clean path.

Many types of travelers can be seen taking advantage of the benefits of the Douglas State Trail on a lovely day.

There are two trails in this 12.5-mile system.

The first is the paved path, which is suitable for runners, walkers, bikers, and skaters.

Horseback riders can also utilize the natural road track.

Imagine being close to a horse while coasting down on your bike.

This trail also leads to the towns of Pine Island and Douglas.

To enjoy it, though, you don’t have to have any particular plans.

Simply let yourself to enjoy the beauty of the surroundings, both on the route and in life.

26. Four Daughters Vineyard and Winery

Four Daughters Vineyard & Winery is another outstanding winery in Rochester.

Sipping wine and nibbling on cuisine, you can have an amazing time here.

This weekend, enjoy a classy and enjoyable time at Four Daughters Vineyard and Winery, which is close to Rochester.

In addition to the wine, Four Daughters Vineyard and Winery offers excellent hard cider, called Loon Juice.

They provide pizza, 4D nachos, and a charcuterie board.

Here, you may also take part in fun special activities like wine-paired yoga sessions.

Consider hosting a wedding or other special event here.

The Four Daughters Vineyard and Winery is situated in Spring Valley, Minnesota, close to Rochester.

They are open Tuesday through Saturday from noon to six o’clock and on Sundays from noon to three o’clock.

Address: 78757 MN-16, Spring Valley, MN 55975, United States

27. Thursdays on First & 3rd Summer Market and Music Festival

Rochester, Minnesota’s top attractions unite the locals for a good time.

Attending the Thursdays on First & Third Summer Market and Musical Festival is a must-do if you’re in Rochester during the summer.

You’ll want to spend the entire summer there because of the amazing views and infectious energy.

You can find folks selling food and crafts on Thursdays on the first and third.

The great live music will also be audible to you.

Above all, you’ll witness people experiencing immense happiness and camaraderie.

First & Third Thursdays honor Rochester as it so richly merits.

Attend at least one of these events if you’re looking for enjoyable things to do in Rochester, Minnesota.

This venue offers exhilaration, community, and entertainment all at once.

28. Amish Tours of Harmony

The Amish are known for their dedication, hard work, and family.

There’s still a lot to learn from them, even if you can’t imagine yourself going a week without using your phone.

If you would like to understand more about the Amish community, you should take one of the Amish Tours of Harmony.

You can witness how resourceful this community is by following a guide that points out all the Amish-run farms, shops, and other attractions.

The history of the Amish is likewise rich in information.

In addition, the area is simply breathtaking, and the horse-drawn buggies enhance the already beautiful scenery.

These tours would be harmonious events under any name, but they are in Harmony, Minnesota.

Amish tours are excellent for learning as well as for tourism.

This firm is skilled at offering fantastic excursions that show respect for the Amish people.

Address: 94 2nd St NW, Harmony, MN 55939, United States