Four Daughters Vineyard is a beautiful winery nestled in rural Southeastern Minnesota. The vineyard is now home to Four Daughters wines, Sunflake wines, and Loon Juice hard cider. They are a fully operational winery, cidery, restaurant, and event center. The vineyard offers a variety of wines, ciders, and beers, as well as a delicious menu of food. They also have a beautiful event space that is perfect for weddings, corporate events, and other special occasions.
Every Thursday throughout the summer, downtown Rochester, Minnesota transforms into a vibrant hub of activity with the Thursdays on First & Summer Market and Music Festival. This free event, held from 11:00 AM to 8:30 PM, offers a delightful blend of local businesses, live music, and community spirit. Stroll through the bustling market featuring over 100 vendors showcasing unique crafts, art, and delicious food. You'll find everything from handcrafted jewelry and pottery to fresh produce and baked goods, perfect for finding one-of-a-kind gifts or indulging in a tasty treat.
Chester Woods Park is a beautiful natural haven located in the rugged bluff country of southeastern Minnesota. Nestled on the headwaters of Bear Creek, the park boasts over 15 miles of hiking trails winding through a diverse landscape of oak woods, bluff prairies, and savannas. Visitors can enjoy stunning views from atop the bluffs, explore hidden waterfalls, and spot a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkeys, and birds of prey. The park also features a swimming beach, boat launch, and fishing opportunities.
Located in Rochester, Minnesota, the Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial serves as a poignant tribute to the sacrifices made by veterans from Southeast Minnesota. Built in 2000, the memorial encompasses a sprawling 9-acre site and features several unique elements that tell the story of American military service from the Revolutionary War to the present day. One of the most prominent features is the Wall of Remembrance, a walkway lined with over 6,300 engraved pavers. Each paver bears the name of a veteran, honoring their service and sacrifice. Visitors can walk among the pavers, reflecting on the individual stories etched into the stone.
Apache Mall is a shopping mall located in Rochester, Minnesota, United States. It is the largest shopping mall in the state of Minnesota, with over 150 stores and restaurants. The mall is anchored by Scheels All Sports, Barnes & Noble, Macy's, and JCPenney. Apache Mall was opened in 1969 and has undergone several expansions and renovations over the years. The mall is currently owned and managed by Brookfield Properties. Apache Mall is a popular destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. The mall features a variety of stores and restaurants, as well as a movie theater and arcade. The mall also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, fashion shows, and holiday celebrations.
Nestled in the heart of Rochester, Minnesota's vibrant downtown, the Downtown Peace Plaza is a haven of tranquility amidst the bustling urban cityscape. Opened in 1983, this public square serves as a cherished gathering space for the community, offering a picturesque setting for relaxation, reflection, and celebration. With its lush green lawns, cascading water fountains, and artistic sculptures, the Peace Plaza embodies an atmosphere of peace and serenity. Visitors can find solace amidst the calming sound of water trickling from the fountains, while basking in the warmth of the Minnesota sun. The plaza's open layout encourages impromptu gatherings and fosters a sense of community spirit.
Quarry Hill Nature Center is a sprawling 326-acre park located in Rochester, Minnesota. It's a haven for nature lovers, offering a variety of activities and attractions for all ages. The heart of the park is the Exploration Hall, which houses live animals native to Minnesota. Visitors can observe turtles, snakes, fish, owls, and even a kestrel up close. Beyond the Exploration Hall, the park boasts over 10 miles of hiking trails that wind through forests, meadows, and wetlands. These trails offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside and are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a vigorous hike.
Niagara Cave, nestled amidst the natural beauty of Forestville Mystery Cave State Park in Minnesota, offers a captivating and unforgettable subterranean experience. This ancient limestone cavern, formed over millions of years by the erosive power of water, boasts stunning geological formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, and columns. As you descend into the cool depths of the cave, you'll be awestruck by the mesmerizing formations, each with its own unique shape and story to tell. The "Giant's Coffin," a massive flowstone resembling a giant's resting place, is a highlight of the tour. You'll also marvel at the delicate "Angel's Wing," a thin, translucent stalactite resembling a feathered wing.
Nestled amidst the bustling city of Rochester, Minnesota, lies the tranquil oasis of Silver Lake Park. This 300-acre park boasts a stunning 110-acre lake, offering a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether you're seeking an invigorating morning walk around the 2-mile paved trail, a relaxing afternoon fishing off the boat launch, or a thrilling afternoon kayaking or paddleboarding across the calm waters, Silver Lake Park caters to all.
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Rochester, Minnesota, Mayowood Mansion stands as a testament to the Mayo family's remarkable contributions to medicine and their dedication to community. Built in 1911 by Dr. Charles H. Mayo, co-founder of the Mayo Clinic, the 38-room estate served as a grand residence for three generations of the Mayo family. Mayowood boasts a rich history, filled with stories of medical innovation, distinguished guests, and lavish entertaining. The 23,000-square-foot home is a masterpiece of architectural design, featuring a distinctive concrete construction, the first of its kind in southeast Minnesota. Surrounded by a sprawling 3,300-acre estate, the mansion offers breathtaking views of the Zumbro River and showcases meticulously maintained botanical gardens.
