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22 Fun & Best Things to Do in Rochester, Minnesota

There are so many fun things to do in Rochester for families with kids and adults. Rochester is the third-largest city in Minnesota, behind Minneapolis and St. Paul. It’s also home to the famous Mayo Clinic.

But we think you’ll like the restaurants we chose and all the fantastic places and things to do in Rochester, Minnesota. It may be hard to pack it all in. Good thing Rochester is a city where you’ll have no problem trying.

Best Outdoor Things to Do in Rochester

Rochester, Minnesota | Things to Do & Attractions [4K HD]

Rochester is all about the outdoors. No matter the weather, folks here know the value of fresh air mixed with a bit of activity.

Our list of things to do in Rochester, Minnesota wouldn’t be complete without fun and outdoor exploration for adults and for families with kids.

1. Quarry Hill Nature Center

One of the top family activities in Rochester, Minnesota, is to learn the interesting history of Quarry Hill Nature Center. Thanks to funding through a liquor tax, the land was purchased for the Minnesota Inebriate Asylum. An adjacent park was created for patients and families.

In 1965, the space was handed to the state for public development, including paved trails. There is also hiking, cross-country skiing, and a pond.

Kids love the Quarry Hill Nature Center for hands-on, interactive experiences with animals, birds, and other natural objects, making it a great thing to do in Rochester with kids. The Quarry Hill Nature Center is open all year round.

See Related: Best Museums in Rochester, Minnesota

2. Douglas Trail

Douglas Trail to Pine Island

What was once an abandoned railroad grade is now one of the coolest things to do in Rochester. For 12.5 miles, the Douglas Trail meanders through beautiful rural landscapes of forestland and pastures from its start in northwestern Rochester.

It passes through its namesake, a town called Douglas, and ends in Pine Island. The trail is flat and is even wheelchair accessible. Along the way, you may see partridge and pheasant. Check maps for circular routes using county roads.

See Related: Things To Do in Granite Falls

3. Silver Lake Park

Silver Lake Park Rochester
Image from TripAdvisor

Silver Lake Park is on the edge of downtown and offers great things to do in Rochester for people looking for outdoor relaxation. A path that follows the Silver Lake shoreline is a favorite for rollerbladers and runners. Or take a stroll and enjoy the fresh air and skyline views.

Grab some take-out for lunch and have a picnic at any tables available along the lake. The installation of a simulated streetscape and the country’s first bicycle playground are two new Silver Lake Park projects.

The project, located between the swimming pool and the skate park, is intended to allow children to practice safe riding before sharing a genuine road with real drivers. Go pay Silver Lake Park a visit if you are looking for free things to do or traveling with kids!

See Related: Best Things to do in Minnesota

4. Cooke Park

The River running through Cooke Park.

Cooke Park is an urban park perfect for family activities in Rochester, Minnesota, because of the river trail for walking and biking. They also have a pickleball court, a playground, and wide, open spaces for picnics and playing.

If you have a group, reserve a picnic shelter and get a game of pickleball or baseball going. Ample parking and seasonal bathroom facilities make this park convenient and fun.

See Related: Things to do in Duluth, Minnesota

5. Cascade Meadow Wetlands & Environmental Science Center

Visiting this fascinating 100 acres is one of the things to do in Rochester, Minnesota, that will leave you more informed about the area’s biodiversity. The Cascade Meadows Wetlands & Environmental Science Center sits along Cascade Creek in northwest Rochester.

Groomed walking and hiking trails are available for the public and offer contemplative views of the wetlands. Educational programming is their specialty, with many interactive exhibits and interpretive trails for exploring. Adults and children can attend classes to learn more about Minnesota’s wet environments and animals.

See Related: Things to Do in St. Paul, Minnesota

6. Downtown Peace Plaza

Downtown Peace Plaza

Peace Plaza in downtown Rochester is a pedestrian-friendly public space that offers rapid access to whatever the downtown area has to offer. The plaza, which includes a gorgeous boutique district, first-rate restaurants, and a sizeable civic gathering space intended to evoke the welcome atmosphere of Rochester, was completed in 2004.

A vast network of skywalks and underground walkways originates from Peace Plaza and continues in the downtown area. This gives a climate-controlled way to travel when you browse the numerous shops and restaurants, which is particularly lovely in winter. The Peace Plaza can be rented for really memorable events amid the busy streets of downtown Rochester.

See Related: Best Restaurants in Rochester, Minnesota

Best Things in Arts and Culture to Do in Rochester

Rochester’s arts and culture scenes are as dynamic as you’ll find in any big city. Galleries, museums, and theaters keep calendars of inspiring entertainment and exhibits.

7. Mayowood Mansion

The front entrance of Mayowood Mansion.

One of the historical things to do in Rochester is to tour the former 23,000-square-foot home of Dr. Charles Mayo. Dr. Mayo and other members of his famous physician family established the nonprofit Mayo Clinic.

Their clinic and the Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research were specially established to treat diseases. Mayowood Mansion gives visitors a look into his life and how dedicated he was to health and wellness. Visitors also enjoy the botanical gardens, views of the Zumbro River, and the adjoining Oriental Tea House.

See Related: Best Lakes in Minnesota (Ranked!)

8. Plummer Building

Plummer Building Bell Tower

Part of the Mayo Brothers Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, heritage, the Plummer Building is a National Historic Landmark named for Henry S. Plummer, M.D.

Dr. Plummer established the medical record and registration process still used at the Mayo Clinic. He designed the architectural marvel as an efficient facility for physicians to work together, allowing patients accessibility throughout.

It’s still in use as an administrative and academic building. The Plummer Building’s iconic features include a large marble mosaic in the lobby and 16-foot bronze doors.

A 56-bell carillon was mounted in the bell tower, a focal point of the city’s skyline, and lit each night. The Plummer Building is conveniently located near the Mayo Civic Center. If you are in town, be sure to pay this legendary landmark in Minnesota and Minnesota’s historic site a visit.

9. Plummer House

Plummer House exterior

Dr. Plummer also planned his home, and it’s one of the most exciting things to do in Rochester if you appreciate architecture and design.

His home reflects his keen interest in systems and innovation. His wife Daisy was a musician and a patron of the local arts. Together they created a home mainly centered around entertaining friends and family.

Find the extraordinary stone mansion in the historical area. Self-guided tours of the house and the surrounding gardens and spaces are available.

10. Mayo Civic Center

Front of Mayo Civic Center

Mayo Civic Center is the heart of things to do in Rochester involving the arts. It’s also a world-class convention center. If you’re traveling for business involving a large meeting or event, it will likely be at Mayo Civic Center.

The hotels near Mayo Civic Center, Rochester, Minnesota, range from boutique to towering and offer fantastic comfort and hospitality. Sports events and concerts are also hosted here. The house has no bad seats, and the acoustics are state-of-the-art.

Check their schedule to see if you can catch your favorite comedian or band while you visit. If you need other options, check out these best hotels in Rochester, Minnesota.

See Related: 9 Reasons to See the Duluth Fall Colors

11. Rochester Art Center

Rochester Art Center
Image by Jonathunder / GFDL 1.2

The Rochester Art Center is a Rochester museum along the Zumbro River. Since 2004, the institution has served customers. The gallery features a constantly rotating display of cutting-edge multicultural, multimedia art by up-and-coming and nationally renowned artists.

The Rochester Art Center offers a variety of programs, including dance parties for youngsters and adults in the Creative Development series and summer workshops for local artists that allow everyone in Rochester to discover themselves through art.

12. Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial

Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial

For things to do in Rochester with a sense of history, make time to visit Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial. The memorial honors the sacrifices made by the brave men and women from southeastern Minnesota who served, or presently do, in our armed forces.

Visits are free, and you’ll come away knowing the stories of those who fought for freedom in some of the world’s worst conflicts. This moving and well-maintained memorial is only a half-mile from the Mayo Clinic Area.

13. Assisi Heights

Assisi Heighs exterior

One of the more spiritual attractions in Rochester is to walk through Assisi Heights–a center and residence for the Sisters of St. Francis. Visitors can tour the chapel, which sits high enough on a hill to get breathtaking city views. The stained glass windows throughout are stunning.

Concerts are often held in the chapel. And the little parlors with their antiques in the buildings are delightful to find. Retreats are available for deeper contemplation.

Fun Things to Do: Breweries and Restaurants

Try locally-brewed beers at one of Rochester’s lively breweries. You’ll also want to try these highly-rated restaurants’ fresh and imaginative dishes.

14. LTS Brewing Company

LTS Brewing glass of beer

The breweries in Rochester, Minnesota, are obsessed with creating and serving unique ales and lagers. LTS Brewing Company makes beers and sodas in small batches to enjoy on their dog-welcome patio or for pick-up. It’s a family-friendly place serving food and craft beverages by the pint, flight, or growler.

15. Little Thistle Brewing

Beer garden at Little Thistle Brewery, Rochester, Minnesota

Breweries in Rochester, Minnesota, are proud to serve their neighbors. Little Thistle Brewing says they consider all their taproom customers as friends. They even call their brewery “an extension of their living room,” and it’s easy to find, even for visitors to Rochester.

Little Thistle Brewery can be accessed straight from the trail. Cool off with Doug Lager after a Douglas Trail bike ride in their spacious beer garden.

See Related: Best Breweries in St. Paul, Minnesota

16. Pescara

Pescara's upscale dining room

Restaurants in Rochester serve all types of fresh and flavorful cuisine created by excellent chefs. Pescara serves international seafood dishes in an upscale setting. They offer vegetarian dishes and gluten-free choices.

Skilled bartenders mix craft cocktails and offer comprehensive beer and wine lists to accompany your meal. Guests rave about the Insignia Scallops, so you’ll want to give those a try. They are conveniently located in the Doubletree Hotel.

See Related: Best Breweries in Wisconsin

17. Chester’s Kitchen & Bar

Entrance to Chester's Kitchen + Bar

Restaurants in Rochester, Minnesota, can also be more casual. Chester’s Kitchen & Bar has an American Classics menu that’s both stylish and familiar. Accessible from the sidewalk or the skywalk, stop in for the rotisserie chicken or prime rib.

It’s close to University Square and a great lunch or dinner stop. Lots of televisions too for gameday.

Unique Family Things to Do: Festivals

Festivals In Rochester

Festivals are great for family activities in Rochester, Minnesota and happen year-round.

18. Harvest Festival

Harvest fest offers family things to do in Rochester, Minnesota in October.

Harvest Festival combines the beauty of fall and is a fun thing to do in Rochester. Downtown becomes a pumpkin patch amid vendor booths and games. With live entertainment, kid’s crafts, and seasonal food, the whole family is guaranteed to have a ball in the streets of Rochester.

Look for a schedule with more details of the activities and exhibits, like pumpkin decorating and the petting zoo, approaching the first of October.

19. Rochesterfest

Rochesterfest is a celebration of all things Rochester culture. It happens in the summer and makes for an excellent family-friendly activity.

A parade through town kicks off the event, including plenty of food and a festival-wide scavenger hunt. Live entertainment is scheduled throughout the week. This is a great way to get involved in the Rochester community and see how locals enjoy this great Southeastern Minnesota city.

See Related: Best Things to Do in Grand Marais

20. Olmsted County Fair

Petting a goat at the Olmsted County Fair.

A classic for family activities in Rochester, Minnesota, the Olmsted County Fair is held in late July into early August. It’s free for everyone to celebrate Olmsted County’s agriculture, art, and community. There are also games, food, and rides.

Check out the best of Olmsted County through its annual fair of exhibits, contests, and live entertainment.

21. Thursdays Downtown

Thursdays Downtown
Image from Thursdays Downtown Facebook Page

The best things to do in Rochester can bring the city and outdoors together in one big block party. Every Thursday from July through September, Thursdays Downtown brings the community together to enjoy great food and live entertainment.

More than 100 vendors set up to serve food and beverages and sell one-of-a-kind art and crafts. It’s a great way to spend a summer Thursday.

22. SocialIce

Ice bar illuminated at night.

Get ready for something completely different in things to do in Rochester, Minnesota…or maybe it’s the best place for it. SocialICE is a festival of downtown Rochester ice bars, each with a different theme and signature frosty beverages.

A DJ pumps out energetic music so you’ll move your body and blood no matter how much the temperature drops. Enjoy the life-size ice sculptures with multi-colored lighting transforming winter streets into a winter wonderland. It’s free to attend. A more family-friendly version called SocialICE FAM JAM is also available for a berry good time appropriate for all ages.

What is Rochester, Minnesota, Known For?

Southeast Minnesota city with a busy hospital and vibrant downtown, Rochester, Minnesota, has a charming, small-town vibe. The people are friendly–typical Midwestern way to be. And the town center is elementary to navigate.

There are many great things to do in Rochester.

Rochester International Airport is only seven miles outside of downtown and is the second busiest airport in the state. You’ll have your choice of direct flights from a few exciting cities, including Atlanta, Chicago, and Denver.

Check them out while you’re there and maximize your vacation time. But in case you have to connect, relax on your layover. Rochester can keep you busy. The hotels around Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, are the most centrally located. Check in on arrival, and you can start exploring immediately.

Downtown is only a mile in radius and is entirely walkable, connected by well-maintained sidewalks, skywalks, and underground walkways. Buses, cabs, trolleys, and ride-shares can zip you across town instead if you need them. Or rent a car for ultra convenience.

If you’re looking for exercise, downtown offers a unique trail system. Rochester provides 85 miles of paved trails, and the Rochester Park Department is top-notch.

Through these trails, you can connect to town from several campgrounds and RV Parks to combine nature with the city’s attractions. You’ll find camper rentals, Rochester, Minnesota campgrounds, and service to be ultra-convenient and accommodating.

Many of Rochester’s buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. They are open as museums and theater venues, making them fun tourist attractions for travelers.

Breweries are also a massive part of what makes the area special. We’ve listed a few places to sample the best craft beers in the region. For dining, you’ve come to the right place. With all the great places you can go for a fantastic meal, narrowing down the best options was hard.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is there to do in Rochester, MN, right now?

Rochester has a lot of activities for tourists looking to do in the region. The Main Street area is the first thing you should explore. Rochester may be your best bet if you like to shop since it has many stores. Another interesting choice for history and culture is the Mayowood Mansion and the Plummer Building for a glimpse into what makes Rochester so unique.

What is Rochester, Minnesota, known for?

Rochester, Minnesota, is known for several things, including the world-renowned Mayo Clinic, which includes several art galleries and museums that the Mayo Clinic has accumulated over the years. Also, Rochester is known for its rich agricultural history and is known as “the city on seven hills.” It offers plenty of fantastic tourist attractions and things for visitors to see, including museums, universities, parks, and theaters.

What is there to do in Rochester, Minnesota?

Rochester has a vibrant history, so there are plenty of things to see and do, including the Mayowood Mansion, the former mansion of the founder of the Mayo Clinic, and the Plummer Building, which features art donated to the hospital as gifts from patients.

If you are into dining and culture, you can browse the main street for shopping, restaurants, and nightlife activities. Finally, Rochester offers excellent outdoor activities with the sprawling Rochester nature center, nearby state parks, and regional parks developed by the Rochester Park Department.

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