We came here for a wedding. There was around 120 guests and this seemed like the perfect place for a wedding that size. Beautiful winery. There were grapes in the vines while we were here. They have a playground for the kids. The make their own wines and they recently starting making their own vodka. Prices were reasonable for a winery. The staff were great, helped when they needed, stayed away when you didn’t need them. Bartenders were kind and helpful.

My husband and I got married at Next Chapter Winery in June 2024 and we had the best day thanks to Jackie and Jeff! The venue itself was so beautiful for our special day. We had a rainy wedding day so we mainly utilized the Barrel Room and Pavilion which turned out to be the perfect backdrop for photos and our ceremony. We were able to have the sides of the Pavilion up so the vineyard could be the backdrop for group photos and after our ceremony we were also able to sneak outside in a break of the rain to take photos in the vineyard. Jackie and Jeff constantly went the extra mile to make sure that things were running smoothly and checking in to see if we needed anything. We trusted their judgment on certain details and we are so glad they did what worked best in the space. We are so very thankful to have had their support leading up to our wedding and to celebrate with them on the big day. We will always recommend Next Chapter Winery to everyone not only because it is a beautiful space, but because Jackie, Jeff, and the staff make the experience over the top special.

We had the most beautiful wedding here last weekend. Jackie is wonderful. She and her husband are the nicest people. The vineyard, barrel room and dinner areas are beautiful. I couldn’t recommend more.

I can’t say enough good things about Next Chapter Winery! I was able to use their venue for my bridal shower, rehearsal dinner & wedding and each event went perfectly with the help of Jackie, Jeff & staff! They were so helpful and great with communicating to every question and change in plans I had. Even with rain on the wedding day the venue has so many options to still put on a beautiful ceremony when I couldn’t be outdoors. I truly can’t thank them enough for making my day so special. I would absolutely recommend anyone looking for a venue for an upcoming event to check out Next Chapter Winery!

Beautiful winery and vineyard! The house-made vodka is delicious and they've created a huge variety of fun cocktails! Great ambiance, large outdoor seating with playground for the kids and lots of places to sit. It truly is a Minnesota gem that needs to be visited.

We just celebrated our daughter and new son's wedding at Next Chapter yesterday, and in a word, wow! Jackie and Jeff are the sweetest people and so easy to work with! Jackie was the officiant of the ceremony even, and she wrote such a lovely and silly ceremony; everyone loved it! We are so happy with how the day went from start to finish. Everyone said what a beautiful space it was, and it was so perfect for our book nerds! I couldn't recommend Next Chapter enough!

Getting married at Next Chapter was a no brainer for us! Do you love wine? Do you love a very elegant yet rustic feel? Do you love twinkly lights and a good time? GET MARRIED HERE! They have everything you could ever want in a venue and Jackie and Jeff were absolutely wonderful through the whole process making the whole day a breeze! I love all the positive energy and love filled memories we have from this wonderful place. Take it from a DIY Bride!

I brought my 8 month old daughter there for the first time and she had a blast. The people working there are super nice, they went in back and grabbed a baby alligator for her to look at up close, then they asked If we wanted to watch them feed the tortoises. The little things like that, that they don't necessarily have to do, really makes an impression nowadays. I would definitely recommend this place to anybody that has kids, or just likes reptiles.

We have not been to the facility itself yet. But we booked them for a birthday party and it was absolutely amazing. The kids loved it! Our guide was soooo very friendly, kind, calm and patient with the children. He took time to answer questions we had and we learned quite a bit of things too. All the kids got to touch at least some of the animals. But my son was able to hold more of them. Being the birthday boy. He was over joyed! Big reptile friend!!! I'm so very happy and glad we found them. I was worried they weren't coming because I hadn't heard anything, but turns out traffic was really bad(construction season) but everything worked out wonderfully! All my friends are looking into it for their future things too. We will make a trip to the zoo itself sometime too!!! Very happy. Recommended highly. Oh and everyone got to hold the big snake at the end. The kids faces just lit up with that!!

My grandson has been there before, my first time. It was amazing, all the animals, the employees-extremely knowledgeable and friendly. So many reptiles and amphibians to see and learn about. Sitting with my grandson and daughter, holding Harley- a 6 yr. old Cayman was pretty cool, to say the least. THIS IS AN ABSOLUTE MUST VISIT, for quality family time and fun education for the kids. Definitely going again! Google RAD ZOO..

Unequivocally the absolute best reptile and amphibian zoo anywhere ! ! ! My wife and I love going to zoos and we have been at many over several states. We have seen other amphibian and reptile displays but this is far and above better anything we have seen thus far. There more in number and variety here than anyone else. They have several species I have never seen before -- along with a few beautiful birds. The owner also brought out an alligator and a python for us to pet. I can't say I've ever petted an alligator before! So if you want to see reptiles and amphibians you absolutely, positively, must see this!

We live about 45 minutes away and we love going to this zoo we don't mind the drive the people and staff are so nice there and you can get so close to the animals it's a very unique experience. I think we will end up doing one of her birthday parties down there also at some point we had seen a party going on and it looked very fun. All of our kids look forward to different features and animals at the zoo.

The RAD zoo exceeded our expectations. The animals appeared well cared for even with minimal staffing. My husband and I toured the zoo for over 2 hours with the only rush being our children which finished the zoo in about an hour. We will definitely be back to visit the next time we are in the area.

I so wanted to visit this place after seeing them on Facebook. Sadly was pretty let down. The guy who took our money literally told us how much and then walked off after we paid. We were the only guest at this point. The blonde female worker never bothered to acknowledge our group as we walked past her. Some of the enclosures are great and really well done. Others are rather dirty and super cramped for the species. I felt terrible for the fly River turle and the gold fish. In another enclosure I watched a tortoise "chasing" a toad and kept trying to bite him. I feel like this place started out with great intentions and got in over their head trying to help rescued animals. Again this is all my opinion because staff couldn't be bothered to explain anything else. The alligator snapping turtle were in just enough water to cover their heads not even their entire body. Unsure if they were draining and cleaning their habitat or just thought they wouldn't like to submerge all the way. I will say I got lucky I had to come from Wisconsin to the ren fest so it was only a 45 minute detour to check this place out. We had talked about making the 4 hour drive just to visit this place at one point this summer. Had I made that trip this would absolutely been a 1 star experience. If you are in the area and really love reptiles it might be worth a stop. If you are the type of person who gets upset about how animals are houses at petsmart this would not be the type of place you'd like to visit. I don't ever see myself visiting again.

I visited Myre-Big Island State Park in the off-season to complete the Hiking Club Trail (6.2 miles), covering a large portion of the park. It’s a spacious state park with plenty of opportunities for fishing, camping, hiking, and biking. The lake views were stunning, with one side still frozen while the other had melted. Despite the chilly weather, I even saw a few people braving the cold for a swim! The entrance was a bit muddy, and parts of the trail were slightly messy from the melting ice, but there was plenty of parking available. The island portion of the trail was especially beautiful, surrounded by water, which added to the scenic atmosphere. Even in the off-season, I came across several campers and fellow hikers, making it feel less isolated. A highlight of this visit was completing my 100 miles of the Hiking Club! The visitor center staff was incredibly polite and answered all my questions, making the experience even better. Overall, a great park with diverse activities and beautiful views—definitely worth a visit!

There's a geological party happening at this state park: ice block, moraines and eskers resulting in Albert Lea Lake, prairie, and wetland environments. All of this makes for a great park to visit as there is something for everyone: hiking, canoeing, birdwatching and more. There are two campgrounds in this park: Big Island for those who want the dense forest, stifling air, shade vibe and White Fox for those that want a more open, show me the sun, feel the breeze vibe. White Fox campground tends to flood during heavy rains; most sites have poor drainage and low spots that produce pooling. Good to be aware of so that you don't wake up in a pool of water. The trail system is extensive and takes you through both the esker to the north and the beautiful prairie with fantastic vistas to the south. There are no clear views of the Lake during summer when foliage is most dense; fall hikes would be amazing with potential for good colors though. Remember to bring your bikes so that you can jump on the blazing star state trail that runs right through the park.

The park is a great place to paddle and watch for water birds. The campgrounds are quiet and sites are well-spaced for privacy. Wildlife was all around with numerous deer and cottontail sightings. We even saw sandhill cranes just outside park boundaries. Lots of wildflowers in late July, too. The white fox campground has some issues with drainage after heavy rains. And the bathroom showers - while no extra charge for campers - take a little trial and error. (Touch the flat "button" on the panel.) The water pressure and temp are good, but the water only runs for a minute or so before you need to touch the "button" again.

Great staff, good price, flat tent sites, free showers. This place is well maintained and beautiful. You can't select the temperature for your shower but it's very comfortable. Totally worth the $. Mosquitoes were kinda bad, but it's Miinnesota. It's camping, you cant pick your neighbors! Staff was very accommodating and allowed me to switch sites to get away from someone running a generator (quiet time is 10pm).

Gorgeous park, especially when the fall colors hit. Great hiking trails with lots of space. We stayed at the Big Island campground which was very cool. Unfortunately there were quite a few very noisy guests including some extremely yappy dogs and it made our stay significantly less relaxing, otherwise it would have been five stars.

Beautiful park with great facilities. We rented a campsite for 2 nights, tent camping. Our campsite was very lush and secluded, so we couldn't hear or see our neighbors. The fire pits at the campsites are nice - concrete base with a solid metal ring (no rust) and easy to move cooking grate. The bathrooms and showers were so nice!!! Clean, hot water, plenty of nice toilet paper. The main office was well stocked and the park ranger on sight was friendly. I love living in a state where we prioritize our parks.

So many good things about this park. Close to the Twin Cities but far enough away. The Blazing Star State Trail goes through the park for walking or biking. Lots of good hiking and wildlife. There is a grass multi use trail that you can mountain bike on. The lake is great for kayaking. You WILL see deer and the bird watching is excellent. Campgrounds are really good, I prefer the upper. The lower is closer to water but can get buggy sometimes.

Very sad at times, but they have put it together with some uplifting stories of the children that spent time there. They have done a great job of honoring the children and the cemetery brought us to tears. So much has been put into making those graves that were only marked with numbers back to having names. I thought my 16 year old daughter would think it was boring and she was so touched by the stories we have been talking about it since our visit this afternoon. Everyone that has put this together and honored the children has done a wonderful job. My 18 year old son was working today, but wants to visit it when he gets the chance. The art center is beautiful too. Highly recommend you visit and donate what you can. Self guided tours are free. Set aside some time, because it’s extensive and very well documented on the daily life of the children that went through the school.

Just great to have this history, it's not all good but it is our Minnesota history. Sad and sometimes brutal, yet there were success story's. The cemetery is a dreadful reminder.The buildings are beautiful and some times very creepy.

So interesting to learn about everything! It was informative and also sad. The volunteer tour guide in the Cottage 11 was amazing! Her uncle and aunt actually worked in the orphanage so she had insight on certain things.

You have to read crackers and milk and C11 to learn the history of the orphanage. It unfortunately has a cool history. Opened in 1886-1945. Over 10,000 kids live there.

This is a great place to bring children. Historically educational. This is one of Minnesota historic places that most Minnesotans are unaware of. Please visit with your children.

Wonderful staff so passionate about this history and what you see and hear here is so interesting!

Will be back to explore more

It's a cool exhibit. They have it free for Veterans, & students, cost per person is roughly 10 bucks. There are approximately 8 walls to read, a video of teens giving you the rundown of the foiled robbery. Some artifacts like guns, spurs, original bank books 📚 to see amount of cash would have been deposited in the bank. They have a nice store of memorabilia, t shirts & sweatshirts all reasonably priced.

I was not there during the defeat of Jesse James day. Therefore, there wasn’t a lot going on and it’s a fairly small museum. We had a tour and it was actually pretty well. Spent 45 minutes I learned a little bit about banking, heroism, horses, guns and the origins (and ending) of the Frank and Jesse gang.

Great tour! The lady was very informative and kept the tour interesting. I mean interesting by all the facts that I had to learn. I was happy with it! It's a must stop if you have never been to Northfield Minnesota

Beautiful scenic place with lots of cool shops and historic places to see. Great for photographers and site seeing. Saw the bank that Jessie James drives back in the day. A clean quite little town.

A fantastic preserved collection of historical artifacts and a great tour guide to boot. It was extremely interesting hearing about the raid that happened at that very building and being able to see the exact saddle Cole Younger rode into town on. 10/10

This is something if you love history. The last bank the Jesse James gang robbed. The actual vault and floors are intact. The actual bank ledger is there with blood on it, too. They also do a reenact the robbery on the first weekend after Labor Day.

Pretty small museum but very interesting. Wife and I came here and found it charming. Great gift shop on the site took

Nerstrand Big Woods State Park is a surprising hidden gem among the prairie and farmland of southern Minnesota. It offers lots of well cared for hiking trails with moderate elevation changes. There are a number of interesting interpretive markers. Prairie Creek is very shallow, so the water flow of Hidden Falls varies greatly depending on recent rainfall. The photos and videos included in this review are after a couple days of rain.

It’s a great gift to the area that this special place is set aside. A lot of nice hills and beautiful trees. Good heart workout and nice hiking club hike. There are areas of ropes which are intended to preserve an endangered species. One of the farther east trails absolutely stinks from a chicken farm nearby. Otherwise, it is a great place and I hope to go back soon.

This is a nice park just south of the Twin cities. Playground, picnic area, hiking trails and of course the waterfall. The bathroom is clean and modern. The showers have good pressure and warm water. The roads through the campground are not paved and narrow. Larger trailers will have to navigate carefully and will not fit in several sites. Definitely not 46E where we stayed. Tent sites have large tent pads. Electric sites are average length. Many sites back up to others, so privacy exists left to right, but often not behind you. If you're in a group, it would work great.

Great State Park! There is a lot of spots to see, and the falls are beautiful. The trails are good and well marked. There is camping and places for a picnic. The playground is a nice addition to keep the kids entertained.

Our first time here and we highly recommend. Thursday afternoon was perfect, Hardly anyone here. Beautiful park with clearly marked and well maintained trails. Check the website for the rangers hours (limited right now), you may need to purchase day pass online. Our planned destination was hidden falls. Not a lot of water this time, but still a beautiful hike! Dog friendly.

This is favorite state park! The falls are a lot of fun for the kiddos (and adults too). Great hiking trails and NOT "buggy" at all. Camping sites are well maintained with some privacy between sites. The campground Hosts are the Best! Very friendly and keep the area and restrooms neat and clean.

The Hidden Falls Trail was very pretty- the woods are beautiful, the ravine and creek are pretty and the falls are gorgeous even if the water wasn’t flowing very strongly.

We held a small wedding shower in the tasting area. The staff was so helpful with the planning and set up of the event, especially Carie, the event coordinator. She always kept in contact with me and was on top of things with the food and drink orders. The staff was amazing at figuring out our needs and were flexible. The food food was wonderful and the wine was excellent. It was an enjoyable experience all around. I will be a customer going forward even though they are 40 minutes away. They are definitely worth the trip.

Staff is very welcoming and nice. My mom and I stopped in on a whim and split a Betty white sandwhich; which was a very good chicken Sammy with bacon added for little extra. Flight options with the staff usually willing to "extend" your curiosity. Walked away with two new bottles of great wine.

We had our wedding ceremony at the vineyard in Dennison, and our wedding reception at the winery on 10/4/2024. The vineyard and winery are both 2 beautiful & perfect properties, and made our wedding vision come true! Abby was phenomenal to work with! We truly appreciate her and her team for working with us to make our day special! Thank you again to the CRW staff ❤️

I've lived in the area most of my life and never knew this gem existed! Great atmosphere, full menu, local wine, and visitation hilarious merchandise!

It has a very open atmosphere, very spacious. I am not a huge wine drinker but the three kinds I tried were good. My wife who rarely drinks wine had two glasses of a sweet white that was recommended by the waitress. I had a Betty White sandwich and it was pretty good. We both enjoyed our time there

The air is cooling, the days are getting shorter, and soon, we'll start to see autumn colors. A wonderful sightseeing destination, just south of the Twin Cities, is Cannon River Winery. The professional, charming, and talented staff will impress you as you visit this winery in downtown Cannon Falls, MN. You'll enjoy the menu, entertainment, and especially the wine. I highly recommend this local business, Cannon River Winery, which produces an excellent made in Minnesota product.

Pretty nice small town winery! The staffs are very friendly and helpful. It costs you small amounts and you can taste a couple of their breweries. What we had was very fruitful taste, mild for everyone. They have indoor and outdoor tables for you to enjoy yours leisurely... There is a big parking lot by the winery. Also, the Cannon River trail is right next. Very convenient if you prefer a walk after your wine taste.

🌟🥫 If you're looking for a unique and quirky experience, the Spam Museum is a must-visit! From the moment you walk in, you're greeted with vibrant displays and fascinating exhibits that tell the story of this iconic canned meat. The interactive exhibits are not only informative but also entertaining, making it a fun experience for visitors of all ages. One of the highlights was learning about the history of Spam and its impact on culture, especially during wartime. The memorabilia and vintage advertisements added a nostalgic touch that truly brought the history to life. Plus, the sampling station was a delicious surprise—who knew Spam could be so versatile? The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, eager to share fun facts and answer any questions. The museum is well-organized and easy to navigate, making it a perfect spot for a quick visit or a longer stay. Whether you're a fan of Spam or just curious about this unique part of food history, the Spam Museum is definitely worth the trip. Don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience! 🥫🌟

Oh man, oh man—you’ve got to stop off and see the Spam Museum. We were on a road trip, and what says “wacky roadside stop” more than Spam? Nothing! I went in with low expectations, but give credit where it’s due: the folks at Hormel nailed this shrine to canned meat. It’s splashy, full of fun and interactive exhibits, and packed with quirky history. Would our soldiers have had meat on the regular without Spam during WWII? Thank goodness we will never have to know. Need a taste? Yep—they’ve got people handing out samples. The gift shop is glorious, overflowing with kitsch that makes Vegas go Hmmmmmm. Best part: they completely own the fact that Spam is the butt of jokes worldwid, and yet over 9 billion cans have been served world wide and counting. Love the taste or taking a hard pass the point is it's (joking aside) a true piece of Americana. don’t miss this trippin’ stop.

What a delightful side trip! We found the museum thanks to a very kind octogenarian at the Minnesota Welcome Center on I 90 eastbound. We paused our trip home and spent additional night just to visit the museum. It was an amazing experience, especially the overhead Spam train. Numerous displays told the story of the Hormel Company and its most famous produc and its spread across the globe. Hint: follow the movement of our forces in the Pacific during World War II. An added highlight were the free samples kitchen staff periodically brought out to share. We came out of the gift store with a t-shirt and hoodie........and a 12 can case of assorted flavors of Spam. A kind young man James graciously carried our treasures to our car. We, however, later learned we could have bought our Spam at the local Walmart for $3.79 a can compared to the approximate $5.00 a can in the gift store. The company is one of the largest. If not the largest, employer in the town. It has maintained Mr. Hormel's policy of paying for a 2 year college degree for all employees and their children.

Loved this museum! Very welcoming staff. Bright and colorful inside. Great displays about the timeliness and history of SPAM. Samples included! I especially enjoyed the wartime displays and how important SPAM was during that era. SPAM in different countries was fun to read about. And make sure you find out what kind of SPAM you are. Plus, the museum is free!

DELIGHTFUL! What a fun stop - very glad we visited. It's FREE, it's very well curated, the staff is fantastic, and the SPAM samples so much fun. Highly highly recommend a visit! SAMPLES - there was an employee walking around with SPAM samples using pretzel sticks as toothpicks (edible toothpicks!). Different flavor every time the tray came by - so much fun! STAFF - friendly, delightful, ready to help without hovering MUSEUM - so well created with a fun "food stand" area that highlighted different countries for each "booth", a giant can display, the rotating cans, a Lilo & Stitch area, and much more STORE - so many fun SPAM items it took us longer to shop than to see the museum lol. So many fun items I don't know where to begin so just check it out for yourself We were staying in Albert Lea about 20-25 minutes away and decided to go check out the SPAM Museum, unsure what to expect - it was so much fun to learn about SPAM with a very thoughtfully put together museum, well designed and visually very pretty with multiple levels and carefully considered placement of objects, plus a "model train-like" conveyor belt of SPAM cans moving throughout the museum! We then went across the street after our museum visit to get SPAM fries at Piggy Blues to keep the SPAM fun going, and brought cans back to Albert Lea to share with friends. Go visit - it's fun!

I've been meaning to go here for a long time. I know SPAM was introduced to many soldiers in WWII, and has taken off in Hawaii and Japan and many other places. It has a wonderful history, as does the Geo. Hormel company. It was a nice self guided tour. You can spend as little time as you want, or more time to watch videos and read the placards. The SPAM samples were really a nice touch. I haven't eaten SPAM in quite a while so I entered into the spirit of the tour and tasted three samples. I wish they world have offered more! I was pleasantly surprised- it was tasty. We went to the gift shop and purchased SPAM varieties and more. Then we went out for a bite, and I ordered breakfast with SPAM at a local restaurant. Oh, no admission charge, so you spend a little in the gift shop!

If you're in the town of Austin or just a Spam aficionado, a visit to this museum is worth the trip. Right from the moment that we walked in we were greeted with friendly smiles and set up immediately on a tour. Are tour guide Erika, was very knowledgeable regarding the origin of Hormel family and their contributions to the brand Spam and the community of Austin. I also learned a lot regarding the Hormel brand and all the other sub-brands that they've acquired. I learned that the Hormel brand contributes significantly to scholarships for youth of the community. They also have a connection and a partnership with the University of Minnesota with regards to research in the science. Unfortunately there are no actual factory tours. All the exhibits are museum style. Yeah there are plenty of hands-on exhibits that contribute to increasing the attention span of those younger visitors. During the tour of the museum we were offered several times different Spam samples. There is a very large souvenir shop selling all sorts of spam themed items. In addition, the museum offers free bike rentals for visitors to explore the town of Austin. Wonderful experience. Highlighted by a wonderful spam representatives such as Erika.

We love this nature center! Lots for the kids to do, beautiful trails, and wonderful staff. We really love attending nature play times in the summer and all that they offer.

The Hormel Nature Center in Austin, MN, is a beautiful and tranquil destination for outdoor lovers and nature enthusiasts. Spanning over 500 acres, the center offers a diverse range of landscapes, from woodlands to prairies, wetlands, and scenic trails. It’s an ideal place for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography, providing visitors with an immersive experience in nature. One of the standout features of the Hormel Nature Center is its well-maintained trail system, which includes both easy and more challenging paths, making it accessible to hikers of all skill levels. Whether you’re walking along the serene shore of Bean Lake or exploring the forested trails, the park provides plenty of opportunities to connect with nature. The center also offers a variety of educational programs for all ages, focusing on local wildlife, conservation, and the environment, making it a great spot for families and school groups. In addition to its natural beauty, the Hormel Nature Center boasts a lovely interpretive center that provides visitors with information on the flora and fauna of the area. The center also features exhibits, interactive displays, and a gift shop, enhancing the overall experience. Overall, the Hormel Nature Center is a peaceful oasis just outside of Austin. Its combination of scenic trails, wildlife observation, and educational opportunities makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy nature, whether for a short visit or a more immersive outdoor adventure. It’s a hidden gem that highlights the natural beauty of the area while promoting conservation and environmental education.

The Trails are smooth and well maintained, and the wild flowers are spectacular. This was a pleasant walk. The only drawback is the road noise from interstate 90 was inescapable. Buy not to overbearing.

Awesome!!!! I was so Happy to find this place, since we were doing a delivery for Hormel. What a treasure, Thank you everyone for your hospitality & answering my questions. I did my personal best here, walked 8 miles I love that you have motorized wheelchair for people in need, enjoy nature also. (For free) Excellent Definitely gets a heart on my map for one of the most beautiful places I have been in this country ❤️ The last 3 pics are of the real homestead where the Hormel farm was, I got that info from the locals

I learned quite a few interesting facts about the nature around this area. Nice exhibits, pleasant modern building. But most of all, the nature trails here are beautiful. A very good complement to the wonderful Myre-Big Island State Park which is about 20 minutes drive to the west.

This is an interesting exhibit. We were not greeted when we arrived so we enjoyed a self tour. The grounds are well kept, it's a beautiful walking trail as well.

Beautiful and maintained trails. If you love nature then must go and enjoyq at Jay C Hormel Nature Center. We love this place. A great spot to take kids of all ages.

Thoughtful reflection of our veterans. Loved it. Pictures don't do it justice. The rest of the Park is wonderful too.

This Place gives you an Amazing feeling, The Minute you walk up to it , 🇺🇸🇺🇸 The Emotion that Runs through you 🥺🙏 What These Soldiers did Selflessly FOR OUR COUNTRY! GOD ,COUNTRY,EACH OTHER, FOR ALL OF AMERICA! 🇺🇸 AMEN 🙏 THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR BRAVERY & SERVICE 🙏😳

First time and it was great. My granddaughter and I played for about 2 hours and then saw the other sand park and probably could have played there for 2 more hours.

Wow!! I can not possibly say enough goo things about this Veterans Memorial. This has got to be the best Veterans Memorial I have ever seen. It is so well done, and it really shows deep respect to our Veterans. The walls are covered with beautiful art showing various conflicts, and the overall presentation is beyond superb. When I was there I had an encounter with a Vietnam Veteran who was visiting there, and I got to talk to him for a while and thank him for his service.

We happened upon Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial while at the playground with our kids. It was so striking from far away, we needed to visit it. The amount of detail in the engravings was remarkable and the layout was smart. What a wonderful tribute.

Memorial Park honoring the brave, the defenders of our freedom and those who gave the greatest sacrifice-their lives. Beautiful granite wall honoring the names of local men and women who served, flags of the different branches, statues depicting their service and actual military artillery. The surrounding park offers plenty of opening space, two play areas, plenty of picnic benches and park shelters, tennis courts, baseball field, dirt running track and public bathrooms. Adjacent pool/water park and golf course are also available. Park and surrounding grounds are clean, but clearly dated and showing need of repair and replacement. Plenty of parking and walking/biking trails.

What an awesome experience today. The veterans who brought our students on the tour did a great job. I had yet to check this place out. It was very well done.

We've driven by a few times now on the way to Costco in Rochester but decided to stop in with my in-laws visiting for a nice lunch. The property is gorgeous, the weather was a breezy 74° so we sat outside and got the pleasant view of the vineyard. The drinks were great, I did the bourbon flight and every one was complex in their own way and my wife and in-laws did the cider flight as well as a few crisp and refreshing sangrias. The food was spot on in every way -- flavorful, cooked well, good portion sizes, and promptly served. Despite the 1.5 hour drive for us this will be the place we bring people who come out to visit us.

This was our first time here and we loved it. The place has a great vibe inside and out, the selection and variety of cider, bourbon and wine is impressive and the food and drinks were very good. This is a destination spot on its own, so if you’re looking for a unique Minnesota experience, find your way to Four Daughters soon!

Unexpected: Four Daughters Vineyard & Winery Delivers More Than Wine Driving through the area, we stumbled upon Four Daughters Vineyard & Winery—and what a surprise it turned out to be. While we’re not ones to go out of our way for wine, something about this place caught our eye, and we’re glad it did. First Impressions: The property is striking—clean lines, a welcoming modern design. It gives off the vibe of a high-end destination without feeling stuffy. You can tell care has gone into every detail, from the landscape to the layout. The Real Surprise? Bourbon. Yes, it’s a winery—but they also distill their own bourbon, right here in Minnesota. That was a twist we didn’t expect, and it’s what made the visit truly memorable. If you enjoy bourbon, do yourself a favor and order a flight. Their in-house selection is thoughtfully crafted, smooth, and full of character. Hats off to the team for producing a bourbon this good locally. Food Worth the Stop. We weren’t even hungry, but the menu lured us in. The pizza? Absolutely outstanding—gourmet, flavorful, and done right. This wasn’t just winery food; this was a meal worth returning for. Final Take: Whether you're passing through or live nearby, Four Daughters is worth the stop—even if wine isn’t your go-to. Between the scenic views, house-made bourbon, and top-tier food, this place earns a spot on our recommended list. We’ll definitely be back.

They had vegan cheese for margherita pizza! Staff were really nice, even though I was entering a ritzy place in flip flops. Lil expensive, but I've totally been to worse places that charge even more. So basically anticipate a bit more money, but TOTALLY worth it! Hats off to the gentleman staff who talked with us a bit, made us happy!

Pizza was great as always! We didn’t realize they closed at 6 on Sundays and got there around 5:45. Luckily, we were still able to order food, and they even let us order more drinks after 6—just no more food. Really appreciated that!

I love four daughters winery. Every time I am in town, I stop. I am really disappointed that they discontinued the Extra juicy loon juice. Everyone I know said it was their favorite one! I used to bring back cases of it for friends that absolutely loved it! Please bring it back!

My friend and I had a very pleasant experience being our first time here. We did visit in the winter, so I would love to come back and see how beautiful it is in the warmer weather. The minute we walked inside, I loved the ambiance of the interior building. We were told what to expect and find any table to sit. Then just tell the bars what table you sat at. I really wanted to try the food as it looked delicious from other pictures. We got the Italian Sausage, Rosemsry & Pistachio Pizza in which it was farely new, but it was delicious. I also got the Sirloin (came with mixed veggies and potatoes) with the Roasted Corn sauce, which hightened the flavor profile of the whole dish. Yummy! I tried a few of the Bourbon drinks as that is what I was drawn to. I had the Blood Orange Sour and the Cinnamon Bun. Superb taste and would want to try more of the menu of drinks. Depending on the drink, you will need to order from different bars (or at the time they lady said she could send it to the other bar 😊) I also love Loon Juice and will want to try a flight of that when I return! Prices I feel weren't completely outrageous and knew what to expect. Overall, it was a pleasant experience with friendly staff 😁

Great spot to visit in summer or winter. We enjoyed snowshoeing here a couple years ago & enjoyed a damp summer visit recently. Really nice park and nature center. Lots to see & learn, clean & very helpful staff. The library/ reading nook was really neat.

You know this place is picturesque when you're taking a walk 5pm on a Sunday and you see 12 different photographers with their clients out there. Beautiful spot for photos, family strolls and a lot of trail to explore! Whether you want single track or paved, this park has it all and it has miles of trail! I wish I knew of it sooner

We went during their Fall Festival and really enjoyed it. It’s a perfect place for families and has good running trails.

Went in October and spotted the largest mushrooms I've ever seen! Lots of easy trails.

The trails are nice and well-maintained. In the center there are some animals to look at and some hands-on learning.

Great park. Learn things, experience three different micro climate zones, hike and touch trees!

Quarry Hill is an excellent nature center, and I always enjoy visiting it! There are a variety of indoor exhibits, including a large aquarium, many live reptiles and amphibians, a beehive, and a bird observation room. The renovations are beautiful, and the reading room for kids is especially nice. Outdoors, there is an extensive trail system (both paved and unpaved). Quarry Hill also offers nature programs and is a great place to volunteer.

Espoir was the amazing guide who led us through the Flooded Forest! She was very knowledgeable about the river, birds and animals that live near by. It was such a beautiful tour! I Highly recommend Broken Paddle Guiding Co tours!!

Loved the views. Started off nice and sunny but towards the end we got poured on. Guides were great! I can now say I crossed the Mississippi by hand in the rain. Would definitely recommend to anyone interested.

Wylie was a fantastic guide— very knowledgeable and encouraging toward me and my first-timer companion. The route we took was absolutely gorgeous, too. Saw a few beaver lodges, a turtle, and even had a bald eagle fly over our heads! If you’re ever in Wabasha or any nearby towns, it’d be a real shame to skip out on this experience. Broken Paddle was the best part of our vacation, hands down. Thanks again, guys! Keep up the good work!

Cole & Drew took good care of us. A thorough paddle lesson and Cole’s patience made for a very successful sunset paddle on the Mississippi River. Our sunset paddle was one of the highlights of our trip to the area and it was a unique way to see the area from a different point of view from the water.

We had another great experience with Broken Paddle. Booking is very easy. Communication is timely and thorough. They go through safety first and then it is time to enjoy. Taylor was our guide and he was so patient with the inexperienced, easy going, and shared so much wonderful information about the nature and biology of the river as we went along. Always checking to see how we were doing. It was a great experience and we are eager to go again. Thank you so much.

Everyone at Broken Paddle was very professional and detailed. From check-in to check-out it was smooth sailing! Our guide, Laura, was very knowledgeable and really made our Raptor tour fun. I would highly recommend Broken Paddle if you want to have an enjoyable kayaking experience on the Mississippi! Thank you Laura and Broken Paddle for a wonderful experience!!

We have an awesome time exploring the backwaters of the Mississippi. Sam was our guide and he was knowledgeable, patient, and experienced. We had up close encounters with a few beavers and there were no bugs.

Such a marvelous place to visit to learn about the natives who once called this town home and to see and learn more about our national bird. The employees are so knowledgeable, kind, and patient. We had a wonderful visit, just wished we came earlier, but we happened upon this jewel of a place. They have scopes where you can see the eagles in the trees across the way. There are exhibits that pay respect to so many things eagle related and American, including how women contributed to the military. They tie it in beautifully. I'd love to visit again with my grandchildren. Kids and adults who really enjoy learning would likely really enjoy this place.

I love this place! There is an informed staff who are pleasant and obviously really enjoy their work there. They have live eagles you can see (but behid glass so perfectly safe), examples of other wildlife (not live) so as to give an environmental look. Lots of information about eagles and how we can help preserve their habitat to keep them safe. There is also a wonderful display of Native American culture and the part the eagles play in it.

It was my 2nd time visiting by boat. Really nice dock and ramp. Staff were nice and helpful. Definitely book the behind the scenes ( I didn't do this but ive heard good things ) kid friendly and book worm friendly. A lot of info to read. Especially upstairs. Overall loved it...!!!

What a gem while traveling up the mighty Mississippi, beautiful building right on the water with bald eagles flying overhead. Had a display of one of the recovery birds at the interactive session. Top-notched facilities and super friendly staff. This is not a national park, but presentation and quality are right there. Definitely worth the stop while heading north.

The National Eagle Center visit was extraordinary! I booked the behind the scenes tour, and we were blown away. We were up close with the majestic ambassadors. Thanks to Tiffany, we learned quite a bit about each bird and also created enrichment for 3 of the ambassadors. We were so enamored that we adopted Angel, Perseus, and Was’aka! I would encourage you to visit the National Eagle Center. There are so many exhibits to see. They have many different tours including cruises, school field trips, and overnight field trips. I’m sure you will also find a memorable keepsake at the gift store.

This is one of my favorite parks in one of my favorite small MN towns of Wabasha. It is an immaculately kept park that is right beside the Eagles museum. A spectacular view. A beautiful spot for a photo shoot.

I loved the eagles inside that we were able to be close to. The person telling about them was very knowledgeable. I did think there was more to the center but not disappointed.

My sisters and I only went on the Chimney Rock Trail but it was beautiful! The scenic view of the area was breathtaking! Yes the trail was more rugged and not for everyone, but if able to it's a must. My sisters and I would definitely come back and check out the other trails Whitewater State Park has to offer! 🥾

Whitewater State Park is a wonderful place to bring your family and friends! While I have been hiking and exploring Whitewater for many years, I had my first camping experience EVER this past weekend. The campsites were very well maintained and it was clear that both patrons and park rangers deeply respect the area and the wildlife within it. The bathroom and shower facilities exceeded my wildest dreams. They were clean (despite a few small bugs, but hey, that’s to be expected!) and they actually smelled…good and fresh? This is THE campsite to go to if you or a loved one are new to camping. It’s a great introductory site!

The trail is really good. You can enjoy the nature and feel free, out of technology, the installations are just great. I didn't camp but the park is really good, if you pay attention you may find really amazing stuff.

WILD RIVER STATE PARK, NOT WHITEWATER Lots of sites, nice and long with good space between them for most electric loops. Good place for hiking or casual strolling, restrooms very clean. Garbage containers at end of each loop so can be a walk. Unfortunately, only recycling area is by dump station. Many deer walking right through campground. Site 43, very nice but flooded during heavy rain.

Swimming area and picnic area are very well kept. The hike to chimney rock was easy enough for our 4 year old to do it without help. Highly recommend for a fun easy day with kids!

Frontenac, Carley, and Whitewater. Three damn parks. All of them beautiful in that old, honest way nature has when it doesn’t care if you’re looking or not. I’d give ’em high 9s, if scores meant anything. Frontenac and Whitewater had those visitor centers, little government boxes filled with maps and bathrooms that only half work, sewer only! But very clean and stocked “not bad” Whitewater even had a nature store—sold those dumb Carley State Park walking stick badges. I bought one anyway. Felt like a sucker. Didn’t care. Carley was closed for camping. Some nonsense about the season ending, even though it was burning hot—90s and climbing. Probably for the best. I wouldn’t have slept worth a damn in that heat. My bones already ache enough from climbing all those stairs to heaven at Whitewater, extra points added for the carpenters who built them. I’ll go back. All of them. They pull at you, those places. I’ll update the scores if I make it out alive.

We loved the Chimney Rock trail! Very rocky and strenuous with all the steps and the incline, but the pic opportunities at the top were beautiful!

Incredible fun for all ages!! Huge shoutout to Tristan at the mini golf booth & Santiago serving the best ice cream we’ve had in a while. Both have beaming personalities that made me write this review so quickly. They are the positive welcoming people that we need more of in family friendly places like this, and in the world in general at the moment. We spontaneously drove here from Winona today for mini golf and ice cream and had such a fun couple hours. I used to love this place as a kid, and returning 20 years later with my girlfriend was nostalgic and so pleasant.

My friend Tim took me there for my birthday, we walked through there, and it was like going back in time. See stuff from when we were kids. We played miniature golf. It was a wonderful birthday. We will definitely go again.

First time visiting. My 2.5 years old son and I had a blast on the carousel. The person running it, I think her name is Winnie, made it 100 times more memorable. Definitely a must visit for the fun and walk down memory lane with toys.

Great selection of toys, from the wooden ones they make there to crafts to puzzles to dolls to kites and much more. My 5 year old granddaughter referred to the books area as "the library." Lunch and desserts are available on-site. The carousel runs on a schedule and the up and down moving animals are gorgeous. There's an 18 hole mini golf course that's appropriate for a wide age range. Both the 5 and 8 year olds with us had a lot of fun playing. We spent about 3.5 hours there.

Lark Toys is a wonderfully magical place for kiddos and adults alike. We find something new and amazing every trip we make (worth the 1.5 hour drive to explore this store). The carousel is something out of a wild imagination. Thank you!

So much fun! Awesome toys for sale, antique/vintage toys on display, food, ice cream, and wooden carved carousel to ride. Must go if in the area (about 1.5 hours from Twin Cities. Fun for the whole family! We love this place!!! Great mini golf is awesome in the summer! Very fun!

What a fun place to visit! Whether you have a child or a child at heart, this place has EVERYTHING!!! From stuff animals, to figurines, to Legos, to puppets to toys that you don't see anymore. It was also fun to see toys from the old days to my childhood toys. There is also a little candy shop and ice cream while you wait for the carousel. Would highly recommend for all kids both young and old! ✌️

A must see! A stunning cave, informative tour and more! We stopped here with a larger group, the cave staff handled us great even moving around start times to get both of our tours started earlier than scheduled. The cave has some great features and our tour guide was excited to tell us all about them. He was knowledgeable and personable. Even our 3 year old had a great time. Above ground they have a mini golf course and playground to keep everyone occupied prior to their tour.

We enjoyed our visit to see these amazing caves in Harmony, Minnesota. We ordered our tickets on arrival. We looked around the interesting gift shop while waiting. Some others with young children enjoyed the mining activity or mini golf outside. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and gave us time to enjoy the cave and take pictures. Our group was small enough for questions to be answered and everyone to see the cave and the underground waterfall. There are steps and about a mile walk involved. If you can physically do that, it is worth it to see this natural wonder of God's creation! They have many interesting rocks, lamps, cookbooks, food items, and clothing to purchase for gifts and personal enjoyment on your way out.

Our family recently visited Niagara Cave in southern Minnesota, and it proved to be an unexpectedly memorable outing. Tucked away near Harmony, the cave offers an immersive experience that balances natural wonder with thoughtful visitor management. Upon arrival, we were impressed by the welcoming atmosphere and the clear effort put into maintaining the grounds. The staff at the visitor center were friendly, and the check-in process was efficient, which set a positive tone for the day. The guided cave tour was the highlight. Our guide blended geology, local history, and humor in a way that kept all ages engaged. Descending into the cave, we were struck by the sheer size of the underground chambers and the remarkable 60-foot waterfall—a rare feature for caves in this region. The lighting throughout the tour highlighted the limestone formations without being intrusive, and there was ample time for photographs and questions. The cave remains a consistent 48°F year-round, which felt refreshingly cool compared to the summer heat outside but required the light jackets we’d brought along. The experience does have its physical demands. The tour involves over 250 stairs and several steep sections. Our preschooler managed with some help, but I would hesitate to recommend the tour for families with infants, elderly visitors, or anyone with significant mobility concerns, as strollers and wheelchairs cannot be accommodated. Sturdy shoes are essential—the walkways can be damp and occasionally slippery. While the cave itself is not strenuous for healthy adults and children, it’s important to be prepared for the ascent at the end of the tour. The site offers several family-friendly touches, including a small gem mining activity, picnic tables, and a clean gift shop stocked with local souvenirs. We brought a small backpack with water and snacks to enjoy after the tour, since food and drink are not allowed inside the cave. The restrooms were clean, and parking was convenient and free. One recommendation is to reserve tickets ahead of time, especially on weekends or holidays, as tours can fill quickly. For those interested in local culture, combining the cave visit with a stop at nearby Amish shops or a scenic drive through the countryside can round out the day. The entire visit took about two to three hours, making it an ideal half-day trip. In summary, Niagara Cave is a rewarding destination for families seeking a blend of education, adventure, and natural beauty. As long as everyone in your group is ready for the stairs and cool temperature, the experience is well worth the effort. I would gladly recommend it to anyone looking for an accessible yet awe-inspiring glimpse into Minnesota’s geological history.

Well worth the stop! Guide was knowledgeable on all the questions we asked her and very nice! There were steps but all manageable. The waterfall made this cave tour even more memorable!

Outstanding example of karst formations for a private cave.... Bring a sweater and appropriate footwear for water. Tour group size is just right and their younger guides are knowledgeable. Nice little gift shop with various rocks, stones and minerals from various areas of the US to purchase. A must see if you're passing through Southeastern Minnesota!

I absolutely loved this experience! At times, it felt like we were legit slot canyoning. You go down 180 feet at the deepest point. You will have done 500+ stairs by the time you get back to the surface. The most surprising thing that I had no idea of was the waterfall. Highly recommend this place!!

I was very impressed with the maintenance of the paths within the cave. As long as you can handle several flights of stairs, walking this cave system will be very accessible for all ages. The tour was about 1 hour round trip. I would highly recommend it.

A great family experience across many ages. Definitely recommend a tube with a back for parents. Kids were fine with the regular. The staff of root river outfitters are very attentive and helpful. They specifically wanted to make sure we had the right size life jacket for our 11 year old (since the river just opened after being too high). They also made sure we had clip straps to connect our 5 tubes together. That was really fun for us to be together. A good recommendation. The pick up van was there in reasonable time and helpful. I actually lost my wallet during the tubing and the staff genuinely helped me look for it before closing up. Luckily they held my license as collateral for taking the tubes so it isn't the end of the world. It was an unforgettable experience and my family bonded.

FYI kayaks are sit in 10 foot. Mostly perception prodigy. Below I had a pungo 100. They said they have some 12 foot ones as well. Kayaks are fine on a river. On a lake it might not be fun with these. Very friendly people. Water level was great never seen it this high in years. Two hours of active paddling for the short route with quite a fast current - you are not forced to do it this way, but this what I like to do

Can't beat the beautiful bluff country of Lanesboro; a must if you're in Minnesota. 🏞️🌲 #Lanesboro #Minnesota #BluffCountry #Travel

employees were nice and helpful, but the river itself is quite dangerous and i don’t feel we were warned enough about it before going in. got stuck in the rapids where a fallen tree trunk pierced our tubes, also got stuck in more rapids and hit a lot of rocks. not very safe or relaxing, but still had fun!

I Can't imagine a better place to go tubing, kayaking or canoeing! Owners are more than happy to help you out in any way that they can. I have seen some negative reviews such as "too much glass and garbage in the river" and "they were closed when I arrived." These are factors that are completely out of their control. Root River Outfitters has guidelines that they do not allow styrofoam or glass. They also have to close due to high or low water conditions, which is totally understandable. Such conditions are not safe and they are ultimately looking out for your safety. Don't let those negative reviews sway you. If you are looking for a fun recreational trip with gorgeous scenery, then RRO is for you! Thanks RRO!

ALREADY im so pumped!! HAVENT EVEN gotten on the water & we are experiencing such top notch service!! I was calling to see what the group rates were for a bachelorette & Caleb? I hope I spell his name right! He meet me where I was, he told me recommendations for lanesboro and he answered my questions! He made the process much simple and easy so that when we are on the water, we will be confident! I cannot wait to be able to spend a girls trip here! He recommended food places for after and he had such a joy in a light in him that made it impossible to not be excited!! Thank you so much! I recommend this place, I have been here before and have experienced. Nothing but good!

A great way to enjoy a lazy river in your free time. It can be busy at times but the staff has always been helpful and the bus ride back (long route) was enjoyable as well.

Can't sing praises loudly enough. The resident ensemble is talented and dedicated to bringing out the best in the plays. The apprentice program helps in filling out the company. Season ticket holders for several years and always look forward to each season's offerings.

My husband and I have been season ticket holders for many years, it’s been our annual anniversary gift to each other! We love this professional theater, and love visiting Lanesboro. It is a smaller, intimate setting - not a bad seat in the house. Great story telling, superb acting and beautiful venue. Highly recommend!

Don't miss this excellent production of Marie Curie's half life. Its so well done and both actors are superb, Wonderful recounting of the history of these two scientists who changed the world and made significant contributions under the duress of ridicule, sexism and powerlessness of women at that time in history. Should be seen by every young woman and man. Loved it.

My wife and I have attended a number of performances over the years and have never been disappointed. This performance - The Angel Next Door, was no exception. Great organization, great performers, well worth the trip to Lanesboro, MN.

It had been a while since we were there, prior to 2020. We saw The Angel Next Door, which was excellent! Wish she would have sang more, what a voice! However the "wokeness" of the theater I find very distasteful.

Once again we have been blessed with a splendid performance by an incredible group of actors! An Angel Next Door was a perfect play to enjoy with humor, romance and a little drama!!

We recently saw The Angel Next Door at the Commonweal, and I laughed until it hurt. What a great comedy and acting company!! Lanesboro is such a great place to visit, and the theater is the gem of the town. We live in La Crosse WI which means that it is a commitment to drive to Lanesboro, but it is always worth it. I can't wait to see the rest of the season! I am a volunteer board member of the theater, and feel very lucky to get to know the company and see a bit of behind the scenes.

They have a decent variety of wines, many of which are on the sweeter side. Their gift area supports a fair variety such as the common standards, T-shirts, kitchen wares, wine glasses, and a few unique creations for wine lovers. They offer a four tray tasting for $6.00, and their wines are fairly priced. Stop in for a tasting, and a light snack.

Our first stop on our way to Decorah. We think we drove through a tornado to get here, but it was worth it! We had a flight and then followed up with a glass of wine and a wine slushie (I think I could have drank 10 of them). Everything was fantastic, including the customer service. We sat inside the barn due to the weather but they have a nice outdoor area as well. We couldn't leave without a bottle -- Berry Patch Hoedown is a solid 6/5!

Such a rare find! We were at a nearby town for the weekend and stopped by this absolutely beautiful rustic winery! Great selection of wines and good food too! Finding vegetarian options is always a challenge and the menu had so many options for us to choose from ! And so fresh and delicious! And staff were absolute sweethearts!

A very quaint winery in a small town of IA. The staff is extremely friendly and suggested wine per individuals taste. The food is amazing and surprisingly a lot of options for vegetarians. Ada’s Amish Potato soup and pies are to die for. If you are in and around New Albin, IA you should stop by this winery.

We had the most amazing time after winneshiek wineries 5K. The vineyard is beautiful and the wine is delicious. I would definitely recommend it if you are in winneshiek!

Excellent service and atmosphere. Lots of wine choices, whether you like dry or sweet! Delicious wine slush (peach was amazing), and ciabatta sandwiches were great as well!

Delightful Winery! Everything was so good! Can't wait to go there again. Definitely telling our city friends about this place. You will love all the extra things like a "Wine Slushy". Different snacks and so much more. I Give it an A+!

We didn't visit with kids but I LOVED that they were aware of guests visiting with kids and had bingo sheets to be interactive. They had 3 different difficulties even. I thought as an adult I would find everything in it and I didn't. There is also a spot to stop and recharge.

Affordable, small, but beautiful and not stuffy art museum. We spent around 1 1/2 hrs here. Mostly kid friendly too, including a little sitting room for kids. We walked through everything and they had some super unique pieces including the panorama which was absolutely huge, never seen anything like it. They also had a giant realistic oil on loan which was pretty cool. I was hoping for more older art as they had 3 modern galleries out of 5, but it was still good. Pretty location with some outside tables next to the water. They just opened a small cafe which we heard good things about.

A wonderful visit and experience with a thematic, yet eclectic blend or artists, history and pieces. Pleasant staff, layout of the space promoted engagement and the pieces were engaging (particularly the exhibition on loan). The museum was a highlight of my first visit to Winona (and Minnesota).

I just had the best time at here this past weekend for Seasonal Summer Saturday with $1 admission, which was a great deal and a perfect excuse to go. I'd heard good things, but I was genuinely impressed by the quality of the collection in lil ole Winona. The art is all fantastic, of course, but what really intrigued me was the diversity of what they had. They've got everything from incredibly detailed paintings of ships to beautiful landscapes and even some more modern pieces. It’s not just a bunch of old boats on canvas; they have a really well-rounded collection that all connects to the theme of water in some way. I was especially fond of the impressionist pieces. The setting right on the Mississippi River is just perfect, too. You can feel the connection to the art when you look out the window and see the real thing. The museum itself is a beautiful building, bright and airy, and not so huge that you feel overwhelmed. The staff were all super friendly and helpful as well. It's such a hidden gem and a fantastic way to spend a few hours. I'm so glad I went, and I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for their other events and exhibits. Even at the regular admission price, it's more than worth it.

Absolutely love this place. Exhibits are switched out pretty often so there is always something new to see. Great excuse to make the trip to Winona.

This museum is a treasure! Absolutely worth the drive down to Winona. It had an expansive collection and very interesting pieces.

Beautiful artwork! Definitely must see for art lovers and sea lovers but they have something for everyone. Educational, thought provoking and humbling

Very interesting history of the Watkins brand and how they built their products in Winona. Celebrating 150 years in one location is impressive for a start, along with the medical treatment of old and now primarily into spices and a speciality bourbon. The administrative building is now on the historical register of deeds, so the history will be around for many more years. Would be interesting to have a factory tour to see all the processes. Mary was our museum attendant and was super friendly and fun to visit with. We actually went back a second day to buy more spices and the naturally made sprinkles for ice cream. The sprinkles don’t have that waxy fake flavor. Will be trying the smoked maple rub this weekend in my smoker.

This was a neat little place. My brother drug me here on an overnight trip to Winona. The shop is small, but adequate to find some J.R. Watkins spices. Wish they had some of the soaps and such available, but that's ok. Seeing the history of J.R. Watkins, and the products they use to sell, was very interesting. The floor is really neat. I won't ruin it, but check it out. You won't be disappointed. Worth the stop.

Very interesting. If you have ever use Watkins products and like them you'll probably enjoy this. You can take as much time as you want, short or long. Things are easy to view and study or glance at and move on. The most interesting thing for us was the variety of things we never knew they offered over the company's existence. Also, their timeliness wall was fun to look at and see the progression of how the company came to be what it is. The down side of our vist: not wheelchair accessible. Not did they have public bathrooms for visitors. The option for a toilet was a portable toilet outside. No air-conditioning either. 🤬

For those interested in Watkins products, this free museum provides an in-depth look at the evolution of the company from its founding to where they are today. Probably wouldn't hold kids' attention, but I enjoyed my time there.

Fun to tour the museum, but shop for products!!! Love their spices and seasonings and mixes!

Small but interesting museum of the Watkins factory and family. The location still produces spices and food mixes on site and are available for purchase in the gift shop. It will probably only take you about 45 minutes to get through the museum and gift shop,so don't plan your day around visiting here. The Gal working at the museum was very pleasant which added to our visit.

J. R. Watkins pain releivers are as tightly woven into the fabric of America as our national banner. Starting in 1868 Watkins began brewing an all natural linament and sold them with a unique money back guarantee. The museum cronicles those humble horse and buggy beginnings and tells the story of the hard working men who made first medicines and then added to the product line with spices and flavorings. The museum not only showcases Watkins growth into a line of products sold internationally, it also offers many of the products for sale.

Interesting place. They're small but quite informative and dedicated to preserving your own populations. Nice to see After your visit walk across street to bar for a pretty tasty cheeseburger!!!

We really enjoyed our visit and highly recommend the Owl Center. The Owls ate amazing! The program presenter was very knowledgeable, informative, and easy to listen to. Also the gift ship is delightful.

This was a wonderful learning experience for my niece and nephew. We enjoyed learning not only about the owls but the critical role they play in the environment and how our actions can protect them. The demonstrations and audience involvement were informative and entertaining. We are still talking about it and would return again some day.

Absolutely loved visiting here! It was educational and fun. Really cool to see the owls up close and learn all about them.

really cool for the 1 hr show. not many owls but its worth the trip to check it out!

We got there in time for their presentation, and boy what a winner. The staff is phenyin their knowledge of owls, and why and how they propagate. So interesting! Plus, an owl scat dissection kit in the gift shop. How absolutely gross and perfect for my grandson.

We drove 2.5 hours to get here and it did not disappoint! The staff was helpful and educational and we got to see owls up close and personal. Reasonably priced to get in with a cute boutique. There is also a fun scavenger hunt of owl sculptures throughput town. So fun!

I drove 4 hours to spend time on the grounds of a Memorial dedicated to our military forces. Upon arrival, the park was inundated with thousands of people attending an arts festival. Wow. An entry fee of $65. Greatly disappointed that this hallowed ground is being used to for this. I won't be returning

Been here at beautiful Veterans park many times. This time I was here for Ashley for the Arts it was quite a wonderful thing yhat was put on.

This park gives you some amazing facts about the armed services. The hero's that made America what it is today. Watch the stories come to life with some of the most amazing sculptures.

This is a very nice memorial park. From the first Independence War to the Perisan war there is a memorial for all of them. It was a very emotional and proud place to be. If you are in Acadia WI you have to see this.

This is a great tribute to our veterans. The statues and history are wonderfully presented. It's a must visit in Arcadia!

The park is beautiful and well maintained. Ashley for the Arts puts on an amazing event. So well organized; full of events, food, entertainment, and crafts!! Coming back every year!!

For small town, unbelievable history. They even have a steel beam from Twin towers. What a tribute to local veterans! Also great location with hills, local park.

This park is a must-stop when traveling thru “Bluff Country ” of SE MN. Located on top of river bluffs, it offers multiple breathtaking views of the surrounding area on both the bluff and river sides. For the grand tour, start at the southern end in the campground and head to Orchard Overlook, then proceed north to the East Overlook and continue on to the South and North Overlook and finally, work your way up to King’s Bluff, past rare bluff-top prairie (please stay on trail to protect this fragile area) to take in spectacular views of Queens Bluff and the Mississippi River beyond. The campground is decently sized offering well-spaced campsites with decent privacy. There are new tent pads on several sites, but note that most sites have some slope to them being on the bluffs and most larger trailers will not fit ( check each site during reservation for Max length). Also there are no elec sites here so plan accordingly and bring your solar power generators. Cell service is ok in campground, better near park office. Facilities are older but in good shape and there are several vault toilets all throughout the park (picnic area, park office, cart in, etc). In summer after heavy or prolonged rain, mosquitoes can be terrible, the heavy tree cover can hinder helping breezes to keep them at bay so bring shelters and sprays. The picnic area is quite nice and large. The are several nice spots tucked into the forest so explore to find just the right one for lunch!

Expect a dirt/gravel road. The Ranger Station can be easy to miss. It is not the Welcome Center. This time of year (mid Sept) it is hot and muggy. You will be in need of Deet. I am enjoying my stay. I have a nice campsite and the park is pleasantly quiet. I enjoyed the short hike to 2 overlooks and plan to do Kings Bluff Trail tomorrow.

This is a great park! What it lacks for in trails it makes up in overlooks. Make sure check out the other overlooks and not just King's Bluff. They all have something special to offer. We stayed at the cart in sites. They were all nice but unfortunately very close to the trail. The trail was not used much though other then those who were camping here. Note: carts aren't provided. They provided wheel barrows.

Great River Bluffs is a good overall Minnesota state park. Definitely not one of the best state parks I've been to in the state, but far from the worst state parks. The hiking trails along the bluffs are a great hike and have some good views of the Mississippi River Valley below. None of the trails I hiked were difficult at all. The couple outlooks from the main parking lot offer good views and are easily accessible. They have good camping sites and well maintained facilities. The park isn't huge, and besides the outlooks overlooking the river, not much else is too noteworthy.

Loved this park and great views of the Mississippi River and Wisconsin. Would like to visit again someday to camp!

Big State Park. Beautiful lookout King trail, 2.5 mile round trip, Easy walk.

An extremely beautiful park! It's all located basically on one bluff which is pretty unique from what I've seen. There's not a lot of trails but that doesn't mean it's not worth the time to explore every square inch of this park. Every trail pretty much brings you to an overlook of the area and it's worth seeing every one. The campsite we were at was a little small but we managed. They have restrooms at the center of the campground area and they were clean and very nice on the inside. There were no rangers when we first pulled in so we had to fill out a card to register. That being said I had a ton of fun and would love to come back again someday!