Minnesotans know that our state has loads of opportunities for exciting endeavors. From scenic bluff country to fascinating historical sites, the state’s southeast region is one of the best places to live and play. To prove our point, here are the top seven cool things to do in Winona.
Winona Visitor Center
The quaint city of Winona sits along the shores of the Mississippi River. It’s known for its picturesque parks, plentiful memorable sites, cultural hot spots, and stunning architecture. The coolest place in this extraordinary town is the Winona Visitor Center. It’s the first stop in every Winona adventure, nestled right in the charming brick building at U.S. Highway 14/61 and Huff Street.
Guests can speak with knowledgeable, friendly staff who are available to answer questions. The center provides visitors with maps and brochures of the attractions to help you find what interests you, from a tasty restaurant to sightseeing destinations. Don’t forget to browse the gift shop for Minnesota gifts, souvenirs, and apparel. Visit the Winona Convention and Visitors Bureau online for a trip planner, interesting videos, and insider tips about what celebrities such as Josh Braaten love to do in the area.
Explore the Pickwick Mill
If you love studying local history, stop by the Pickwick Mill. Thomas Grant and Wilson Davis constructed this former gristmill on the banks of Big Trout Creek in the mid-1850s. It’s one of the oldest flour mills in the state, and it now serves as a museum. Opal Fitch saved the mill from demolition in the early 1980s during construction on Winona County Road 7. Today, you can see this National Historic Landmark’s restored mechanical facility.
Climb the Bluffs at Garvin Heights
One of the coolest things to do in Winona is climbing the bluffs, and one of the best spots in town to do so is Garvin Heights City Park. Climb to the top on the well-maintained path. You’ll take a mile-and-a-half hike as the trail winds up the summit. Then, follow the flight of stairs up to a dirt path that sweeps along the edge of the cliff. There, at the scenic overlook, you can discover breathtaking views of Mount Trempealeau and Lake Pepin. On clear days, visitors can see over 30 miles of the sprawling Mississippi River Valley.
Nature surrounded the bluff with a beautiful, grassy prairie dotted with majestic oak trees, making it a wonderful place to get outdoors without leaving the city limits. Bring a picnic lunch and refuel on the grass after your hike. Park in the gravel lot off West Lake Boulevard.
Go Camping at Prairie Island
If you love sleeping under the stars, head to one of Winona’s best camping spots: Prairie Island. This seasonal campground is open from April 15 through Oct. 31 each year. Pack up your sleeping bags, tent, and a cooler loaded with picnic fare, and head out on your adventure. You can even rent a newly available tiny house cabin.
The campground touts loads of fun activities from Sunday morning yoga sessions and games for the kids to outdoor adventures, all on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River. Explore the pristine backwater channel in a rented kayak, play disc golf, or sunbathe on the sandy beach. You’ll find this family-friendly campground on Prairie Island Road.
Kick Back Suds at Island City Brewing Company
Island City Brewing Company found its home inside a former railroad transfer station right downtown on East Front Street. The 5,000-square-foot building sits adjacent to Levee Park and features a 15-barrel brewhouse and an inviting taproom. The brewery still showcases the station’s original red brick, giving it Old World charm. The rustic decor and eclectic mixture of seating options, from lounge chairs and couches to traditional bar stools, further highlight its cozy ambiance.
Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or a novice sipper, you’re going to enjoy the offerings here at Island City. The taprooms tout a rotating selection of beer, such as Mrs. Sippi. This light and crisp blonde ale come with a kick of raspberry that your sweet tooth will love. If you’re not sure what to order, get a flight of four 6-ounce pours for just $10. Enjoy some yard games on the patio, try a pint, hang out with friends, listen to live music, and talk beer at this local brewery.
Sips Vino at Garvin Heights Vineyard
If you’re more of an oenophile (wine connoisseur) than a cerevisaphile (beer expert), head to Winona’s Garvin Heights Vineyard on Garvin Heights Road. This local vineyard features 5 acres of vines. The property touts a 1,400-square-foot winery, an expansive outdoor patio, a production cellar, and a 2,250-square-foot event center to explore.
Garvin Heights Vineyard produces its wines exclusively from grapes that thrive in Minnesota’s colder climate. You’ll find white, blush, red, fruit, and dessert wines under its label. Tastings are available seasonally during business hours, or you can schedule a private tasting with your special someone. You can choose four 1.5-ounce flights from each week’s featured flavors, such as the Frontenac Gris. It’s a dry amber white with hints of apricot, peach, and tropical fruit.
Discover the Minnesota Marine Art Museum
The Minnesota Marine Art Museum (MMAM) on Riverview Drive examines our relationship with water. Wander through a variety of educational and inspiring visual arts experiences. This nonprofit education center and gallery started with a massive collection of traditional marine and folk art paintings by Leo and Marilyn Smith. The exhibits have continued to expand throughout the years and now feature 10 historical and contemporary exhibits with pieces by masters such as Renoir, Picasso, Monet, and Van Gogh on display.
There you have it!.The friendly folks here at Tom Kadlec Kia just informed you of the seven top cool things to do in Winona, Minnesota. What do you think of our picks? Did we miss a favorite local hot spot of yours? If you think other residents would love it, let us know! Drop us a line, and we’ll add it to this list.
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