Minneapolis / Saint Paul
About a 90-min drive north on Hwy 52, the Twin Cities area offers all activities of a big city without being overwhelming. Including, of course, the Mall of America.
Whitewater Park
beautiful park with many miles of hiking trails.
National Eagle Center
Chance to see our national bird up close and learn more about them. Renovated Spring 2007.
Spam Museum
Yes, really. Hormel is headquartered in Austin, about 45-min drive from Rochester. For an experience you can't get anywhere else, give this one a try.
Forestville / Mystery Cave
Historic Forestville is a restored 1800s village operated by the Minnesota Historical Society, complete with guides in period clothing and activities. Mystery Cave is an underground cave.
Lanesboro
Historic village in a beautiful valley. Old-town main street with unique shops and restaurants. Many outdoor activities along the Root River. Near a fish hatchery where you can feed hundreds of fish with one toss.