Visit Bluff Country Magazine 2023/2024

2023-2024

SE MINNESOTA • NE IOWA • SW WISCONSIN • NW ILLINOIS

FREE

THE ART OF VISITING

BLUFF COUNTRY

One-of-a-kind art studios and galleries

call the picturesque landscape of Bluff

Country home.

TROUT FISHING

FOR ALL AGES

It is the perfect time to visit

the area, fish, and enjoy

everything trout.

WELCOME TO

AMISH COUNTRY

They are considered the

country’s most conservative.

A GUIDE TO HISTORIC BLUFF COUNTRY | 800-599-0481 | VISITBLUFFCOUNTRY.COM

C-2 | SE MINNESOTA • NE IOWA • SW WISCONSIN • NW ILLINOIS | VISIT BLUFF COUNTRY 2023-2024

VISIT BLUFF COUNTRY 2023-2024 | SE MINNESOTA • NE IOWA • SW WISCONSIN • NW ILLINOIS | C-3

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A Bluff Country Paradise

& Outfitters

Located on the Root River Bike Trail just 4.5 miles from Lanesboro!

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100 Main Street

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507-268-4363

STORE HOURS: Monday & Friday, 9 am–8 pm,

Tuesday–Thursday & Saturday 9 am–5 pm, Sunday Noon–4 pm



Welcome to Bluff Country I 1

Bluff Country

A Land of Unspoiled Beauty

Drive along the Historic Bluff

Country Scenic Byway (Trunk

Hwy 16) beside the Root River

through Houston and Fillmore counties

and you will see why many call this one

of the most beautiful areas in Minnesota

and Iowa. Scenic river towns that

once powered the mills that ran the

agricultural commerce of the new territories

and housed the railroad depots

now beckon travelers to enjoy quaint

country charm and breathtaking

vistas.

The trains have disappeared,

but an old rail bed

has been developed into a

hiking and biking trail system,

the Root River State

Trail and Harmony-Preston

Valley Trail (MN), which

provide over 60 miles of biking,

hiking and in-line skating, as well

as groomed cross-country ski trails in

the winter. The newest addition to the

Trout Run Trail in Decorah, Iowa is

now open.

Bluff Country is unique in its combination

of hardwood forests, trout

streams, agriculture, apple orchards,

numerous springs and underground

caves, as well as flocks of wild turkeys,

bald eagles, and herds of whitetail deer.

Known as the Driftless Area because it

was missed by the last ice age’s powerful

glaciers, the topography has been

sculpted by the erosive effect of water

eating away at limestone. This “karst”

landscape is characterized by tower-

ing bluffs, sinkholes and swift rocky

streams. The superb hunting, along

with excellent trout, bass, catfish and

pan fish fishing, is right here.

For the casual traveler who is looking

for quiet time to reflect in nature’s

beautiful surroundings, Bluff Country

offers a special place far from the maddening

crowds, with a wide selection

of Bed & Breakfasts, motels, or campgrounds

from which to choose. Stroll

through the many boutiques

and specialty shops, take a

night out for professional theatre,

or explore the many back

roads that run through farming

country. You may even

run across a few Amish farms

on your adventure.

Golfers will find a

dozen courses that offer not

only a challenge, but beautiful scenery

as well.

Almost any time of year features

seasonal celebrations, but the citizens

of Bluff Country welcome visitors year

round. Shoppers will delight in the

variety of antique and gift shops, as

well as an array of eateries. And, for the

recreational enthusiast, Bluff Country

has it all. From kayaking or fly fishing

the swift streams, to turkey and deer

hunting the hardwood forests, to biking

and roller blading the trails through the

countryside, Bluff Country, Southeast

MN, Northeast IA, and Southwest WI,

is an ideal place for a getaway.

CONTENTS

MINNESOTA

Brownsville.................................................. 37-38

Caledonia.....................................................39-42

Canton...........................................................98-99

Chatfield.......................................................80-84

Fountain.......................................................85-86

Harmony....................................................... 87-95

Hokah...................................................................36

Houston........................................................ 49-51

Kellogg...........................................................12-13

La Crescent..................................................34-36

Lake City................................................. 16-17, 20

Lanesboro.................................................... 64-75

LeRoy......................................................... 122-123

Mabel.............................................................46-48

Millville.................................................................10

Nodine..................................................................33

Peterson...............................................................60

Plainview.............................................................11

Preston...................................................... 106-113

Red Wing.............................................................20

Rushford, Rushford Village.................... 52-57

Spring Grove............................................... 42-45

Spring Valley........................................... 121-122

Wabasha........................................................14-16

Whalan.......................................................... 76-77

Winona.......................................................... 30-33

Wykoff........................................................113-114

IOWA

Bluffton............................................................. 134

Burr Oak............................................................ 135

Charles City............................................. 127-128

Clermont.................................................. 132-133

Cresco........................................................125-127

Decorah....................................................136-143

Elkader.............................................128-129, 132

Hawkeye........................................................... 133

Highlandville................................................... 134

Lansing...................................................... 147-148

Lime Springs........................................... 123-124

Marquette/ McGregor.........................149-151

Riceville.....................................................124-125

Waukon.....................................................143-146

WISCONSIN

Alma......................................................................22

Galesville.............................................................24

La Crosse...................................................... 25-27

Onalaska..............................................................28

Pepin...............................................................21-22

Platteville.................................................154-155

Prairie du Chien..................................... 151-154

Stockholm.................................................... 22-23

Warrens................................................................24

MAPS & INFORMATION

Area Map, MN & Scenic Byway............. 58-59

Brewery, Distillery, Winery Map.......156-157

Business Directory......................................... 5-7

Calendar of Events................................158-159

Car Cruise & Show........................................C-10

Farmers Markets.................................................9

Golf Guide ....................................................... 160

Area Map, Iowa......................................130-131

Root River Bike Trail Map, MN............... 78-79

Trout Fishing Map, IA...........................104-105

Trout Fishing Map, MN........................100-101

Visitor Centers, IA.......................................... 135

Visitor Centers, MN..........................................29

Visitor Centers, WI............................................29

FEATURES

Top 7 Hiking Trails.............................................11

Top 3 Biking Trails............................................ 28

Choose Your Adventure.................................61

Top 5 Couples Destinations......................... 77

© 2023 Sethre Media Group, Inc.

P.O. Box 496, Preston, MN 55965

507-765-2151 • www.visitbluffcountry.com

2 I Best of the Best

BE A VBC

WINNER!

VOTE FOR THE

BEST OF THE BEST

AND WIN!

Only businesses and organizations represented in this Visit Bluff Country

Magazine will be eligible for BEST of the BEST Awards selection.

COMPLETE THE ONLINE BALLOT AND YOU'LL BE ENTERED INTO

A DRAWING FOR ONE OF THE GRAND PRIZES BELOW.

1

2

3

4

PRIZES

Lifetime Hydros 85 Sit-on-Top Kayak ($349)

The Lifetime Hydros Kayak is a sit-on-top kayak designed for extreme

safety and stability. The lightweight, 40 pound design, front T-handle, and

convenient center carry handle make it easy to transport to and from the

waterfront. With shock cord straps and multiple footrest positions this

kayak has plenty of extras to enhance your paddling experience. PADDLE

INCLUDED.

Green Mountain Grill Ledge Prime+ Pellet Grill ($899)

Prime grills just got even better with the same great Prime features PLUS

a collapsible front shelf, interior grill light, rotisserie enabled mounting and

stronger reinforced grates. With a 13.5” peaked lid and 458 sq. in. of grill

space this workhorse can cook anything from a dozen racks of ribs to a

small whole hog and monitor multiple food temps with dual meat probes.

Coleman Longs Peak 6 person Fast Pitch Dome Tent

with Camping Essentials($249 Value)

Bring all of the luxuries from home, you will have a place to store them safely

out of the elements without taking up precious tent space. The fast pitch tents

are lightweight, compact for simple set up with preattached poles, and no slip,

quick setting feet.

Blackstone Outdoor Griddle Black ($429 value)

The Blackstone 4 Burner 36 in. Gas Griddle in Classic Black is the master

of outdoor cooking. Four independent heat controls and a scorching 60,000

BTUs for truly epic meals. Serve an entire crowd with full-sear restaurantquality

steaks or flip up to 28 burgers or 72 hot dogs! Any size party is served

with a Blackstone.

BIG

GIVEAWAYS!

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CONTACT US TODAY! 800-599-0481 OR EMAIL INFO@VISITBLUFFCOUNTRY.COM

COMPLETE THE ONLINE BALLOT AND YOU'LL BE ENTERED INTO A DRAWING FOR ONE OF THE GRAND PRIZES.

BEST OF THE BEST

Award Winners will be announced in the 39th Annual

Visit Bluff Country Magazine in the year 2024!

One drawing winner will be announced each month and notified by e-mail. Winners will

be required to pick up prizes at the Visit Bluff Country Magazine office in Preston, MN.

ONE WINNER EACH MONTH!

MAY, JUNE, JULY, AUGUST, SEPTEMBER

Final entry deadline is September 30, 2023.

Best of the Best I 3

CONGRATULATIONS

2022 PRIZE WINNERS

Audrey Staggemeyer

of Caledonia, MN

Wendy Pfremmer of

Preston, MN

Alyssa Riter,

of Decorah, IA

jackie steberg

of zumbrota, MN

Jami schwickerath of

lime springs, IA

VOTE FOR THE BEST OF

THE BEST FOR A CHANCE TO WIN!

ONE WINNER EACH MONTH!

MAY, JUNE, JULY, AUGUST, SEPTEMBER

Final entry deadline is September 30, 2023.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR PAST WINNERS

Garret AshtoN of

Rochester, MN

Nikki Augedahl of

Caledonia, MN

Trista Rowland

of Chatfield, MN

Sarah Stensgard

of Rushford, MN

Alicia Minnis of

Pine Island, Mn

4 I Best of the Best

2023 BEST OF THE BEST AWARD WINNERS

ANTIQUES

Antique Center of La Crosse

110 3rd Street S., La Crosse, WI 54601

(608) 782-6533 | antiquecenteroflacrosse.com

APPAREL

The Rustic Corner

413 N. Main St., Charles City, IA 50616

(641) 228-2657 | therusticcorner.com

PAGE 26

PAGE 128

ATTRACTION/ENTERTAINMENT

Outback Ranch

PAGE 50

7750 Tt Rd., Houston, MN 55943

(507) 896-5550 | outbackranch.net

BANKING SERVICES

Rushford State Bank

219 S. Mill Street, Rushford, MN 55971

(507) 864-7755 | rushfordstatebank.com

BEER/WINE/SPIRITS

Root River Saloon

112 Coffee Street E., Lanesboro, MN 55949

(507) 467-3355

BREAKFAST

Free Range Exchange

46 Main Street, Hokah, MN 55941

(507) 894-1111

PAGE 53

PAGE 75

PAGE 36

BREWERIES

PAGE 151

Old Man River Restaurant & Brewery

123 A. Street, McGregor, IA 52157

(563) 873-2002

BURGERS

Old Barn Resort

24461 Heron Rd., Preston, MN 55965

(507) 467-2512 | barnresort.com

PAGE C-2/3

CONVENIENCE STORES

Lanesboro BP Food Shop

PAGE 68

100 Sheridan St. W, Lanesboro, MN 55949

(507) 467-2121 | sapetroleum.net

DESSERTS

Four Daughters Vineyard & Winery

78757 MN-16, Spring Valley, MN 55975

(507) 346-7300 | fourdaughtersvineyard.com

DISTILLERIES

RockFilter Distillery

113 Maple Dr., Spring Grove, MN 55974

(507) 498-7625 | rockfilterdistillery.com

EATING/DRINKING

B & B Bowl & Restaurant

401 Kansas St. NW, Preston, MN 55965

(507) 765-2522 | bandbbowlrestuarant.com

EVENT CENTER

Cedar Valley Resort

905 Bench St., Whalan, MN 55949

(507) 467-9000 | cedarvalleyresort.com

PAGE 115

PAGE 42

PAGE 107

PAGE 77

FARMERS MARKET

La Crescent Farmers Market

595 Veteran's Parkway, La Crescent, MN

lacrescentfarmersmarket@gmail.com

PAGE 9

FURNITURE

PAGE 11

The Woods Fine Amish Furniture

435 W. Broadway, Plainview, MN 55964

(507) 710-4110 | woodsamishfurniture.com

GARDEN/FLORAL

K & K Gardens

108 E. Wilbur Street, Hawkeye, IA 52147

(563) 427-5373 | kkgardens.com

GENERAL STORE

Rushford Hardware

402 S. Mill St., Rushford, MN 55971

(507) 864-2540

GIFT SHOPS

Chic by Chateau

PAGE 133

PAGE 56

PAGE 121

104 N. Broadway Ave., Spring Valley, MN 55975

(507) 346-2922 | chicbychateau.com

GOLF COURSES

Chosen Valley Golf Club

1801 Main St. S., Chatfield, MN 55923

PAGE 82

(507) 867-4305 | chosenvalleygolfclub.com

GROCERY/SPECIALTY FOOD

Oneota Coop

PAGE 137

312 W. Water St., Decorah, IA 52101

(507) 467-2500

HUNTING, FISHING,

CAMPING SUPPLIES

Root River Rod Co.

PAGE 68

116 Parkway Ave. N., Lanesboro, MN 55949

(507) 467-2101 | rootriverrodco.com

ICE CREAM PAGE 142

Don Jose Mexican Restaurant

201 E. Water Street, Decorah, IA 52101

(563) 382-6052 | donjosedecorah.com

COMMUNITY SERVICES

City of Chatfield

PAGE 80

20 2nd Street SE, Chatfield, MN 55923

info@chatfieldmn.org | chatfieldmn.org

LODGING - HOTELS - INNS

Cobblestone Inn & Suites

100 North St. Marquette, IA 52158 PAGE 150

(563) 873-8900 | staycobblestone.com

LODGING - BED & BREAKFAST

The JailHouse Inn B & B PAGE 106

109 Houston St. NW, Preston, MN 55965

(507) 765-2181 | jailhouseinn.com

LODGING - CAMPING/CABINS

Eagle Cliff Campground

35455 MN-16, Lanesboro, MN 55949

(507) 467-2598 | eagle-cliff.com

PAGE 67

LODGING - VACATION RENTAL

Big River Resort

PAGE 15

1110 Hiawatha Dr. E., Wabasha, MN 55981

(651) 565-9932 | bigriverresort.com

MUSEUMS

Vesterheim Museum


(563) 382-9681 | vesterheim.org

PAGE 137

PIE

PAGE 108

The Sweet Stop & Sandwich Shoppe

110 St. Anthony St. S., Preston, MN 55965

(507) 765-9956 | thesweetstop.net

PIZZA

The Bite

51 Main Ave. N., Harmony, MN 55939

(507) 886-2483

PAGE 95

RECREATION/ENTERTAINMENT

Spring Grove Cinema PAGE 44

167 W. Main St., Spring Grove, MN 55974

(507) 498-1234 | sgmovietheater.com

RENTALS

Upper Iowa Resort & Rental

578 Lonnings Dr., Dorchester, IA 52140

(507) 467-2943 | www.lrgeneralstore.net

SEAFOOD

Branding Iron

1100 Circle Heights Dr., Preston, MN 55965

(507) 765-3388 | brandingironmn.com

SPECIALTIES & SERVICES

Bluff Country Computer Works

35 1st Ave. NE, Harmony, MN 55939

(507) 886-9675 | bccworks.com

PAGE 146

PAGE 106

PAGE 90

SPECIALTY STORES PAGE 110

Hoffmann Stables & Tack Shop

23283 US-52, Preston, MN 55965

(507) 765-2250 | hoffmannstables.com

STEAK

PAGE 136

Rubaiyat Restaurant


(563) 382-9463 | rubaiyatrestaurant,com

TOURS

PAGE 89

Amish Tours of Harmony

94 2nd St. NW, Harmony, MN 55939

(507) 696-2015 | amish-tours.com

WINERIES

PAGE 85

Sugar Creek Vineyard & Meadery

23661 County 8, Fountain, MN 55935

(612) 986-9177 | sugarcreekvineyard.com

VEHICLE/BIKE/BOAT SALES

Iron Hill Harley-Davidson PAGE 145

208 IA-9 S., Waukon, IA 52172

(563) 568-4025 | ironhillpowersports.com

MINNESOTA

ANTIQUES

New Generations of Harmony ...................Harmony .............p. 90

The Caledonia Gallery ..........................Caledonia ............p. 42

The Farmer’s Daughter Country Store ...........Wykoff ............. p. 114

Treasures Under Sugar Loaf .....................Winona ..............p. 32

APPAREL

Bee Balm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Harmony .............p. 94

Boutique Station ...............................Peterson .............p. 60

Chic by Chateau ................................Spring Valley ...... p. 121

E2 Boutique and Amish Experience ..............Lanesboro ...........p. 66

Footwear by Footskins ..........................Spring Grove .........p. 44

HIS Business ...................................Spring Grove .........p. 44

Hoffman’s Stables/Tack Shop ....................Preston ............ p. 110

Little River General Store .......................Lanesboro ...........p. 69

Magnum Sports ................................Chatfield .............p. 82

Threads Custom Apparel ........................Chatfield .............p. 82

Trailhead Inn ...................................Preston ............ p. 110

Treats and Treasures ............................Lake City .............p. 16

BANKING SERVICES

First State Bank of Fountain .....................Fountain .............p. 86

Root River State Bank ...........................Chatfield .............p. 82

Rushford State Bank ............................Rushford .............p. 53

BEER/WINE/SPIRITS

Granny’s Liquor ................................Lanesboro ....... B. Cover

Root River Saloon ..............................Lanesboro ...........p. 75

Root River 102 .................................Lanesboro ...........p. 70

TJ’s Liquor .....................................Spring Valley ....... p. 116

BREWERIES

Hop & Barrel Brewing ...........................Spring Valley ....... p. 120

Island City Brewing .............................Winona ............. p. 32

Karst Brewing ..................................Fountain .............p. 85

Sylvan Brewing .................................Lanesboro ....... B. Cover

Trout City Brewing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Preston ............ p. 110

Turning Waters B&B and Hoppy Girl Brewery .....Wabasha .............p. 14

CAMPING/SERVICES

Bluffview Campground .........................Rushford .............p. 56

Eagle Cliff Campground & Lodging ..............Lanesboro ...........p. 67

Good Earth Village .............................Spring Valley ....... p. 115

Old Barn Resort ................................Preston ............. C-2/3

Outback Ranch .................................Houston .............p. 50

DISTILLERIES

Harmony Spirits ................................Harmony .............p. 90

Rockfilter Distillery .............................Spring Grove .........p. 42

EATING/DRINKING ESTABLISHMENTS

B&B Olympic Bowl and Restaurant ..............Preston ............ p. 107

Branding iron ..................................Preston ............ p. 106

Carly Mae’s Bakery & Cafe .......................Chatfield .............p. 84

Clara’s Eatery ...................................Lanesboro ...........p. 74

Estelle’s Eatery & Bar ............................Harmony .............p. 92

Fat Pat’s BBQ & Brewery .........................Spring Grove .........p. 45

Four Daughters Winery .........................Spring Valley ....... p. 115

Free Range Exchange ...........................Hokah ...............p. 36

Good Times Restaurant & Bar ...................Caledonia ............p. 39

High Court Pub ................................Lanesboro ...........p. 71

Juniper’s .......................................Lanesboro ...........p. 73

Lawrence Lake Marina ..........................Brownsville ..........p. 38

Little Miami ....................................Caledonia ............p. 42

Nordic Lanes & Lounge .........................Rushford .............p. 57

Norsland Lefse .................................Rushford .............p. 55

Old Barn Resort ................................Preston ...........p. C-2/3

Pedal Pushers Cafe .............................Lanesboro ...........p. 72

Peterson American Legion ......................Peterson .............p. 60

Rack’s Bar & Grill ................................Spring Valley ....... p. 122

River City Grill ..................................Winona ..............p. 31

Root River Saloon ..............................Lanesboro ...........p. 75

Business Directory I 5

Root River 102 .................................Lanesboro ...........p. 70

Saxon Hall .....................................Brownsville ..........p. 37

Shari’s Sports Saloon ...........................Chatfield .............p. 84

Stellar 181 .....................................Spring Valley ....... p. 121

The Bite ........................................Harmony .............p. 95

The Creamery/Nordic Lanes .....................Rushford .............p. 57

The Sweet Stop & Sandwich Shoppe ............Preston ............ p. 108

Time Out Tavern ................................La Crescent ..........p. 36

Trout City Brewing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Preston ............ p. 110

Turning Waters B&B and Hoppy Girl Brewery .....Wabasha .............p. 14

Whiskey Dicks Eatery & Saloon ..................Millville ..............p. 10

FURNITURE

Drury’s Furniture ...............................Fountain ............. C-5

Looking Glass Prairie Furniture Store ............Harmony .............p. 91

The Woods Fine Amish Furniture ................Plainview ............p. 11

Triple M Furniture ..............................Harmony .............p. 91

GARDEN/FLORAL

Harmony Gardens & Floral ......................Harmony .............p. 89

HIdden Springs Peony Farm .....................Spring Grove .........p. 45

GENERAL STORES


Rushford Hardware Rentals .....................Rushford .............p. 56

GIFT SHOPS

Bee Balm ......................................Harmony .............p. 94

Boutique Station ...............................Peterson .............p. 60

Chic by Chateau ................................Spring Valley ....... p. 121

E2 Boutique and Amish Experience ..............Lanesboro ...........p. 66

Harmony Gardens & Floral ......................Harmony .............p. 89

HIS Business ...................................Spring Grove .........p. 44


LARK Toys ......................................Kellogg ..............p. 12


Niagara Cave ...................................Harmony .............p. 93


Some Like It Hot Catering/Marketplace ..........Spring Valley ....... p. 121

Stone Mill Hotel & Suites ........................Lanesboro ...p. 68, B. Cover

SVJ Creative Designs ............................Kellogg ..............p. 13

The Farmer’s Daughter Country Store ...........Wykoff ............. p. 114

The Peddler ....................................Lanesboro ...........p. 70

Threads Custom Apparel ........................Chatfield .............p. 82

Timeless Creations .............................Houston .............p. 50

Treats and Treasures ............................Lake City .............p. 16

Triple M Furniture ..............................Harmony .............p. 91

Winona County History Center Winona p. 33

GOLF COURSES

Chosen Valley Golf Club ........................Chatfield ............p. 82

Harmony Golf Club .............................Harmony .............p. 94

Lanesboro Golf Club ............................Lanesboro ..........p. 74

Preston Golf & Country Club ....................Preston ............p. 108

Rivers’ Bend at the Old Barn Resort ..............Preston .............C-2/3


Free Range Exchange ...........................Hokah ...............p. 36

Harmony Foods ................................Harmony .............p. 92


Ody’s Country Meats ...........................Spring Valley ....... p. 116

Pine Tree Apple Orchard ........................Preston ............ p. 110

Preston Foods ..................................Preston ............ p. 111

Red’s Hometown Market ........................Spring Grove .........p. 45

Rushford Foods ................................Rushford .............p. 55

HUNTING, FISHING, CAMPING SUPPLIES

Cedar Valley Resort & Outfitters .................Whalan ......... p. 77, C-4


Magnum Sports ................................Chatfield ............p. 82

Root River Outfitters ............................Lanesboro ...........p. 66


The Driftless Fly Fishing Co. ....................Preston ............ p. 111

6 I Business Directory A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Minnesota

LOCAL COMMUNITY SERVICES

Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce ..........Caledonia ............p. 41

City of Chatfield - Chatfield Alliance .............Chatfield .............p. 80

City of Fountain ................................Fountain .............p. 85

City of Mabel ...................................Mabel ................p. 46

City of Whalan .................................Whalan ..............p. 76

City of Wykoff ..................................Wykoff ............. p. 114

Harmony Area Chamber of Commerce ..........Harmony .............p. 88

Houston Chamber of Commerce ................Houston .............p. 49

La Crescent Chamber of Commerce .............La Crescent ..........p. 34

Lanesboro Area Chamber of Commerce .........Lanesboro ...........p. 64

Mabel Business Association .....................Mabel ................p. 47

Prairie Visions .........LeRoy, Adams, Rose Creek, Taopi ................p. 123

Preston EDA, Tourism & Chamber of Commerce ..Preston .............p.109

Rushford Peterson Valley ..Peterson, Rushford, Rushford Village .....p. 54,79

Spring Grove Communications ..................Spring Grove .........p. 44

Spring Grove Chamber of Commerce ............Spring Grove ........p. 43

Spring Valley Chamber of Commerce/EDA .......Spring Valley ....... p. 120

Spring Valley Tourism ...........................Spring Valley ...p. 117-119

LODGING

A Guest Hus Motel .............................Lanesboro ...........p. 75

AmeriInn .......................................Wabasha .............p. 14

AmericInn .....................................Winona ..............p. 32

Amish Valley Cabin .............................Canton ...............p. 98

Asahi Loft ......................................Harmony ............ p. 92

Best Western ...................................La Crescent ......... p. 35

Betsy’s Bed & Breakfast Inn ......................Caledonia ........... p. 40

Big River Resort ................................Wabasha ............ p. 15

Bluff Country Retreat ...........................Lanesboro .......... p. 74

Cedar Valley Resort & Outfitters ...... Lanesboro/Whalan .........p. 77, C-4

Country Lodge Inn .............................Harmony ............ p. 94

Country Trails Inn & Suites ......................Preston ............p. 112

Days Inn .......................................Winona ............. p. 30

Dick’s Halfway Inn ..............................Millville ............. p. 10

Eagle Cliff Campground & Lodging ..............Lanesboro .......... p. 67

Fairfield Inn & Suites ............................Winona ..............p. 31

Good Earth Village .............................Spring Valley ....... p. 115

Green Gables Inn ...............................Lanesboro .......... p. 73

Historic Caledonia Inn ..........................Caledonia ........... p. 40

Historic Scanlan House B&B .....................Lanesboro .......... p. 71

Holiday Inn Express .............................Winona . ............ p. 31

JailHouse Inn B&B ..............................Preston ............p. 106

James A. Thompson House B&B .................Lanesboro .......... p. 74

Oakenwald Terrace .............................Chatfield ............p. C-8

Old Barn Resort ................................Preston .............C-2/3

Outback Ranch .................................Houston ............ p. 50

Riverport Inn & Suites ..........................Winona ............. p. 31

Root River Inn & Suites .........................Lanesboro .......... p. 73

Root River Valley Cabin .........................Lanesboro .......... p. 72

Stone Mill Hotel & Suites ........................Lanesboro . p. 68, B. Cover

The Plaza Hotel & Suites ........................Winona . ............ p. 31

Trailhead Inn ...................................Preston ............p. 110

Turning Waters Bed, Breakfast & Brewery ........Wabasha ............ p. 14

MUSEUMS

Canton Depot/Mitson House Museums ..........Canton .............. p. 99

FC Historical Society Museum & Library .........Fountain ........... p. 86

Houston County Historical Society Museum .....Caledonia ........... p. 40

LARK Toys ......................................Kellogg ............. p. 12

Winona County History Center ..................Winona ............. p. 33


B&B Olympic Bowl and Restaurant ..............Preston ............p. 107

Big Springs Farm Pumpkins & Corn Maze ........Lanesboro .......... p. 72

Caledonia Hot Air Balloon Rally .................Caledonia ........... p. 40

Chatfield Center for the Arts ....................Chatfield ............ p. 81

Commonweal Theatre Company ................Lanesboro ..p. 66, B. Cover

Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center ......Lanesboro ...........p. 68

Hammell Equipment Chatfield, Eitzen, Harmony, Rushford Village . p. 52, 91

JEM Theatre ....................................Harmony ............p. 87

Lanesboro Arts .................................Lanesboro ...........p. 65

LARK Toys ......................................Kellogg ..............p. 12

Lawrence Lake Marina ...........................Brownsville ...........p. 38

Lost Creek Hiking Trail ..........................Chatfield .............p. 80

Magnum Sports ................................Chatfield ............p. 82

Midwest Cruise Night ...........................Spring Valley ....... p. 120


Nordic Lanes & Lounge .........................Rushford .............p. 57

Outback Ranch .................................Houston .............p. 50

Pool 4 Adventures ..............................Wabasha .............p. 16

Prairie Visions ......................LeRoy, Adams, Rose Creek, Taopi.p. 123

Shari’s Sports Saloon & Lanes ...................Chatfield .............p. 84

Spring Grove Cinema ...........................Spring Grove .........p. 44

Spring Grove Family Swim Center ...............Spring Grove .........p. 45

The Old Barn Resort & Rivers’ Bend Golf .........Lanesboro ......... C-2/3

REALTOR

Bluff Country Properties - Jeff Brogle . . . . . . . . . . . . Lanesboro ......... p. C-9

Chad Weiss Realty ..............................Chatfield .......p. 83, C-11

Re/Max - Todd Hadoff Chatfield, Lanesboro ...p. 70

RENTALS

Cedar Valley Resort & Outfitters .................Whalan .........p. 77, C-4


Pool 4 Adventures ..............................Wabasha .............p. 16

Root River Outfitters ............................Lanesboro ...........p. 66



Carly Mae’s Bakery & Cafe .......................Chatfield .............p. 84

Chateau de Chic Salon ..........................Spring Valley ...... p. 121

Five Wynds Event Centre ........................Spring Valley ....... p. 122

Hammell Equipment Chatfield, Eitzen, Harmony, Rushford Village . p. 52, 91

Harmony Telephone Company/Computers ......Harmony .............p. 90

Harrington Enterprises ..........................LeRoy .............. p. 123


Joy Ridge Event Center .........................Chatfield .............p. 84

NAPA - Preston Auto Parts ......................Preston ............ p. 113

Pine Tree Apple Orchard ........................Preston ............ p. 110

Root River Hardwoods .........................Preston ............ p. 113

Some Like It Hot Catering/Marketplace ..........Spring Valley ....... p. 121

Spring Grove Communications ..................Spring Grove .........p. 44

Tom Kadlec KIA ................................Rochester ...........p. C-6

TOURS

Amish Tours of Harmony .......................Harmony .............p. 89

Bluffscape Amish Tours .........................Lanesboro ....... B. Cover

Bluff Country Studio Art Tour ...................Lanesboro ...........p. 75

Historic Scanlan House B&B .....................Lanesboro ...........p. 71


WINERIES

Four Daughters Vineyard & Winery ..............Spring Valley ....... p. 115

Sugar Creek Vineyard & Meadery ................Fountain .............p. 85

VEHICLE SERVICE

Brown’s Tire, Battery & Transmission .............Rushford Village ..... p. 52

Tom Kadlec KIA ................................Rochester ...........p. C-6

Check us out on Facebook

@ Visitbluffcountry

www.visitbluffcountry.com Business Directory I 7

IOWA

ANTIQUES

Turkey River Mall .................................Elkader ..............p. 129

APPAREL

Driftless Gypsy ..................................Lansing ..............p. 147

Fisk Farm & Home ............................Cresco, Decorah, Monona.p. 126

BREWERIES

Old Man River Restaurant & Brewery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . McGregor ...........p. 151

Pulpit Rock Brewing Co. ..........................Decorah .............p. 137

CAMPING/SERVICES

Elkader Campground ............................Elkader ..............p. 129

The Red Barn Resort & Campground ..............Lansing ..............p. 148


Don Jose Mexican Restaurant ....................Decorah .............p. 142

Empty Nest Winery ..............................Decorah .............p. 139

Fiesta Vallarta Mexican Restaurant/AJ’s Steakhouse. Waukon .............p. 146

Gear Elkader ....................................Elkader ..............p. 132

Old Armory BBQ .................................Decoarh .............p. 142

Old Man River Restaurant & Brewery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . McGregor ...........p. 151

Rubaiyat .........................................Decorah .............p. 136

Safehouse Saloon ................................Lansing ..............p. 148

Saxon Hall .......................................Brownsville ...........p. 37

Schera’s Restaurant ..............................Elkader ..............p. 132

Shep’s Riverside Bar & Grill .......................Lansing ..............p. 147

The Landing Market ..............................Decorah .............p. 138

Time Out Tavern .................................La Crescent ...........p. 36

Twin Springs Supper Club ........................Decorah .............p. 141

FURNITURE

The Rustic Corner ................................Charles City ..... p. 128, C-7

GARDEN/FLORAL

K & K Gardens ....................................Hawkeye ............p. 133

GENERAL STORES

Fisk Farm & Home ............................Cresco, Decorah, Monona.p. 126

GIFT SHOPS

Elliott Jewelers ...................................Waukon .............p. 146

Red Roxy Quilt Co. ...............................Decorah .............p. 141

The Gourmet Traveler ............................Lansing ..............p. 147

The Rustic Corner ................................Charles City ..... p. 128, C-7

The Silver Birch/Dragonfly Books .................Decorah .............p. 143

Turkey River Mall .................................Elkader ..............p. 129

Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum .......Decorah .............p. 137


Coffee on the River. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lansing ..............p. 147

WW Homestead Dairy ............................Waukon .............p. 143


Allamakee County ...............................Waukon .............p. 144

Charles City ChamberEDA/Tourism ...............Charles City ..........p. 128

Howard County Business & Tourism ..............Cresco ...............p. 126

City Of Marquette ................................Marquette ...........p. 150

City of McGregor .................................McGregor ...........p. 150

LODGING

B & B on Broadway ...............................Decorah .............p. 140

Bakke Family Farmhouse .........................Decorah .............p. 142

Bear Creek Cabins ................................Highlandville ........p. 134

City View Loft/Stonewall Cottage .................Decorah .............p. 140

Cobblestone Inn & Suites. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marquette ...........p. 150

Epic Suites .......................................Waukon .............p. 146

Fairfield Inn & Suites .............................Decorah .............p. 139

Little Switzerland Inn. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . McGregor ...........p. 151

Red’s Retreat & Guesthouse ......................Decorah .............p. 141

The Red Barn Resort & Campground ..............Lansing ..............p. 148

Minnesota/Iowa/Wisconsin

MUSEUMS

Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum .......Decorah .............p. 137


Casino Queen ....................................Marquette ...........p. 149

Charles City Whitewater ..........................Charles City ..........p. 128

Cresco Fitness Center ............................Cresco ...............p. 127

Cresco Theatre & Opera House ...................Cresco ...............p. 125

Decorah Bicycles .................................Decorah .............p. 136


Alum-Line .......................................Cresco ...............p. 127

Gear Elkader .....................................Elkader ..............p. 132

Hartig Drug ......................................Waukon .............p. 145

Iron Hill Harley Davidson .........................Waukon .............p. 145

Lime Springs Medical Clinic ......................Lime Springs ........p. 124

Red Roxy Quilt Co. ...............................Decorah .............p. 141

Regional Health Services .........................Cresco ...............p. 126

Upper Iowa Marine ..............................Decorah .............p. 138

WINERIES

Eagles Landing Winery ...........................Marquette ...........p. 149

Empty Nest Winery ..............................Decorah .............p. 139

Frisky Fox Vineyard ...............................Riceville .............p. 125

Winneshiek Wildberry Winery ....................Decorah ............p. 140

WISCONSIN

ANTIQUES & GIFT SHOPS

Antique Center of La Crosse ......................La Crosse .............p. 26

Main Street Prairie du Chien ......................Prairie du Chien .....p. 153


The Barn Restaurant .............................Prairie du Chien .....p. 151


Explore La Crosse ................................La Crosse .............p. 27

Pepin Tourism Commission .......................Pepin .................p. 21

Platteville Chamber of Commerce ................Platteville ............p. 155

Prairie du Chien Chamber/Tourism ...............Prairie du Chien .....p. 152

West Coast of Wisconsin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stockholm area .......p. 23

LODGING

Holiday Inn Express ..............................Onalaska/La Crosse ...p. 28

Quality Inn & Suites ..............................Prairie du Chien .....p. 154

MUSEUMS

Castlerock Museum ..............................Alma .................p. 22

Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum .....................Onalaska .............p. 20

Veterans Hall of Honor ...........................La Crosse .............p. 25


Irish Fest .........................................La Crosse ............. P. 26

La Crosse Queen Cruises .........................La Crosse .............p. 25

Rotary Lights (holiday lights) .....................La Crosse .............p. 26

Warrens Cranberry Festival, Inc. ..................Warrens ..............p. 24

Visit www.visitbluffcountry.com

to see upcoming events and

plan your trip today!

8 I Advertise With Us A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

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www.visitbluffcountry.com Farmers Market I 9

Local Flavor

Maximize your farmers market trip

Community-based farmers markets can introduce

shoppers to an array of foods they may otherwise

never experience. Farmers markets are great places

to find fresh, locally grown foods, and many market

customers are happy to know they’re benefitting

both the environment and local businessess with

every dime they spend.

Farmers markets can range

from the very large to the relatively

small, and first-time

visitors may not know where

to begin. The following are a

handful of ways to maximize

your visit to farmers markets of

all sizes.

• Take time to explore. Farmers

markets tend to have many

of the same fruits and vegetables

you can find at the local chain grocery store,

but farmers markets also are known for offering

more than what you may find in the produce aisle.

Take time to explore the market and you may just

find foods you typically only find at your favorite

restaurant. Exploring also may introduce you to new

foods you may otherwise never have tried.

• Consider the timing of your visit. The popularity

of farmers markets has increased dramatically

as more and more people embrace the concept of

buying locally grown foods. While that’s great news

for the planet and local farmers, shoppers should

keep that in mind when planning their visits. If

you love trying new foods, arrive early to the farmers

market before the more unique offerings have

been snapped up. Foods that have small yet devoted

followings may not be available

in abundance, and you may

end up leaving empty-handed if

you arrive late. If it’s a bargain

you want, then visit later in the

day when farmers with substantial

remaining inventory may

be more inclined to lower their

prices.

• Speak with the sellers.

First-time farmers market shoppers

may feel like they’re lost

in the woods while everyone else seems to know

exactly what they want and where to get it. If you

find the farmers market somewhat intimidating,

speak with the sellers. Shopping at the local farmers

market tends to be more intimate than shopping at

the chain grocery store, and many sellers would be

happy to offer you some tips and make some suggestions

based on the meals you like.

Farmers markets are great places to support local

businesses and find fresh foods.

MINNESOTA

The Crooked Quarter Farmers Market, Caledonia: May 20 through

October 28, weather permitting

Saturdays 9am-1pm • Behind the bakery at 124 E Main St.

Chatfield Farmers Market: May through October

Thursdays 3-6pm • City Park

La Crescent Farmers Market: mid-May through mid-October

Tuesdays 4-7pm • 595 Veterans Parkway

Lake City Market by the Lake: June 15 to August 31

Thursdays 4:30-8pm • Ohuta Park

Lanesboro Farmers Market: May through October

Saturdays 9am-12pm • Sylvan Park

LeRoy Farmers Market: June 8 through October 12

Thursdays 4-6pm • Hwy 56, downtown LeRoy

Plainview Farmers Market: May through September

Wednesdays 4-7pm • 215 1st St. SW

Preston Pop-up/Farmers Market: May 20, 10am-3pm;

August 12 & September 13, 10am-2pm • North side of Courthouse

Red Wing Farmers Market: Summer - Saturdays 8am-1pm,

Levee Rd. by train depot; May through October, Mon.-Fri. 8am-close,

near City Hall, W. 4th St. • www.rwfarmersmarket.org

Rushford Peterson Valley Farmers Market: mid-May to mid-October

Tuesdays 4-6:30pm • Well House Ministry front lawn, 102 N. Mill St.

Simple Living Farmers Market, Mabel: May through October

Saturdays 8:30-11:30am • Hwy 44

Simple Living Farmers Market, Spring Grove: May through October

Wednesdays • 4-7pm • Maple Drive near Viking Park, Spring Grove

Wabasha Farmers Market: mid-May through October

Wednesdays 2-5pm • 2nd St. across from library

Winona Farmers Markets: Summer Market: May through October

Saturdays 7:30am-12pm • Winona Levee Park, 2nd St. and Main.

and Winter Market: November through April

1st and 3rd Saturdays • East Rec Center, 210 Zumbro St.

IOWA

Charles City Farmers Market: May - October

Wednesdays 3:30-6pm, Saturdays 9am-12pm • Central Park

Elkader Farmers Market: May-October

Saturdays 9am-12pm • 24687 Hwy 13 at Fast Track

Marquette Farmers Market: May to October

Fridays 4-7pm • Driftless Area Wetlands Centre, 509 US 18

Riceville Farmers Market: May 27 to August 26

Saturdays 9-11pm • 203 Main St. & Hwy 9

WISCONSIN

La Crosse Farmers Markets: Various days, times & venues -

see explorelacrosse.com

Prairie du Chien Farmers Markets: May-October

Thursdays 4-7pm • Parking lot next to Sports World, W. Blackhawk Ave.

Saturdays & Sundays 6:30am-5pm • Across from Travel Wisconsin

Travel Center, South Main

DICK'S

HALFWAY INN

10 I Millville, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

DICK'S

HALFWAY INN

440 Oakwood St., Millville, MN

www.whiskeydicksmillville.com

FOR INFORMATION OR RESERVATIONS

CALL US AT 507-421-9508

• Pet friendly

• Includes 5 bedrooms and 3 baths

• Local attractions include fishing, canoeing,

tubing, kayaking, and motocross tracks

•Walking distance to local establishments

Millville, a city on the Zumbro River, was incorporated

as a village in 1899. It was founded by

Charles F. Read, for whom Reads Landing was

named, on a site selected for its good gristmill possibility,

although none was built. When the post office was established

in 1867, Read was the first postmaster in his home.

Millville is home to the Spring Creek National. This

legendary motocross race is sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing.

When in town for the the race, stop at the saloon and

grill for a tasty meal in their outdoor eating area, or rent

a kayak to get the best view of the Zumbro!

August brings out the best of the town with their

August Millville Valley River Days celebration, which

began with just a band and only was supposed to be one

day, but soon grew into a full-blown festival, with old and

new attractions and activities.

One tradition being brought back from the festival in

the 1990s is the rubber duck races, in which thousands of

rubber ducks are released into the river, with the owners

of the first three ducks to cross the finish line winning

a prize. Among other activities, the festival ends with

fireworks at dusk on Sunday night.

WHISKEY DICKS

Eatery & Saloon

411 Division St • Millville, MN • 507-798-2424

www.whiskeydicksmillville.com

Restaurant:

Friday Night Fish Fry

Monday: Closed

Tuesday-Thursday: 11am - 10pm Famous for the fresh

Friday: 11am - close

Saturday: 11am to close delicious half pound burgers

Sunday: 11am - 9pm

Party Packages available ON AND OFF SALE

Food and liquor catering available!

HAPPY HOUR TUESDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 3 - 5PM

www.visitbluffcountry.com Plainview, MN I 11

Plainview is a progressive, small town in southeastern Minnesota

located 21 miles from Rochester, the region’s major metropolitan

city. With a population of 3,340, Plainview offers residents a safe,

secure alternative to a more urban setting! In fact, Plainview was recently

named the safest place to live in Minnesota by AlarmSystemReviews.com.

Plainview is 14 miles from hunting, fishing and boating on the

Mississippi River. The Whitewater and Zumbro River Valleys are less

than five miles from city limits. Carley and Whitewater State Parks are

within 15 minutes of Plainview! The city is also located at the western

edge of the 2,000,000 square-mile Richard J. Dorer Hardwood Forest,

which covers parts of Dakota, Fillmore, Goodhue, Olmsted, Houston,

Wabasha, and Winona Counties. Plainview residents are 15 minutes

away from four recreational areas within the Forest.

Plainview is the agricultural hub of Wabasha County. Lakeside

Foods, Inc. and Plainview Milk Products are major food processors that

market locally-grown and produced products nationally and internationally.

ABA Water Systems, Inc. and A.W. Beadblasting are two companies

that provide components and services to high-tech manufacturers

throughout the U.S. Overall, more than 100 businesses in Plainview

provide jobs to about 1,500 employees.

Plainview offers its residents and visitors plenty of opportunity for fun

and adventure. Plainview’s eight parks offer walking/biking trails, picnic

areas, play equipment, tennis courts, softball diamonds, and an archery

range. The walking trail is one of the most used recreational facilites in

the city. The black top paved trail is almost a mile in length. There is

also a 9-hole regulation length golf course just outside the city limits for

folks to enjoy.

TOP 7 HIKING TRAILS

1. EAGLE BLUFF ENVIRONMENTAL

LEARNING CENTER....(Lanesboro, MN)

2. EFFIGY MOUNDS......(Harpers Ferry, IA)

3. FRONTENAC STATE PARK...................

.......................................(Frontenac, MN)

4. GRANDAD BLUFF..........(La Crosse, WI)

5. GREAT RIVER BLUFFS......(Winona, MN)

6. HISTORIC FORESTVILLE...(Preston, MN)

7. PALISADES......................(Decorah, IA)

“Going to The Woods is Going Home”

Visit our Spacious Showroom for Authentic

Amish Furniture & Unique Home Décor

Please call, email, or stop by

435 West Broadway, Suite 1 • Plainview, MN 55964

(507) 710-4110 • (866) 861-1830

amishwoods@woodsamishfurniture.com

Visit us at http://woodsamishfurniture.com/

12 I Kellogg, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

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Welcome to the City of Kellogg, Minn., and the

picturesque scenic surrounding area. Kellogg

is home to a Heroes Memorial located in their

downtown park. Life-size concrete statues are displayed,

including a fireman, soldier, paramedic and police officer

along with a huge central granite engraved wall.

Engraved bricks with community heroes’ names make up

the walking area. The Heroes Memorial is a spectacular

site when lit up at night. The concrete statues were

created by a local statuary producer, with the memorial

landscape design also created locally.

The Kellogg area offers fishing, hunting, camping,

snowmobiling, ATV and horseback riding in nearby state

parks, restaurants, attractions and shopping. Mini golf

and an amazing hand carved carousel are found here at

one of the top 10 ranked toy stores and museums in the

world!

The first weekend of May brings the area’s 100-Mile

Garage Sale, with Kellogg as one of the participating

towns. The first weekend after Labor Day, Kellogg celebrates

with their annual Watermelon Festival. A weekend

full of fun, with softball tournament, tractor ride,

carnival, burnout, watermelon crawl, a Sunday parade,

and more!

To learn more about Kellogg, visit cityofkellogg.org/ and

wabashamn.org.

www.visitbluffcountry.com Kellogg, MN I 13

Website

VRBO

Kellogg, MN Made

From small garden stones to life size

hero statues, SVJ creates it all. Custom

painting available. Painted and

unpainted statues to choose from.

Two Locations

131 Pembroke Ave., Wabasha, MN

(downtown setting)

Retail store. Open painting. Paint classes

62099 Hwy 42, Kellogg, MN 55945

(country setting)

Manufacturing of concrete statues & retail

507-767-3039

www.svjcreativedesigns.com

VACATION RENTAL ABOVE WABASHA STORE - CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION

14 I Wabasha, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Located 70 miles southeast of Minneapolis/St. Paul,

Wabasha, Minn., is a hotspot river town on the

Mississippi River, rich in history and attractions.

Enjoy outdoor activities, artistic experiences, unique

shopping, fine dining and lodging. Our historic district

has more than 50 buildings on the National Register of

Historic Places.

The cities of Wabasha and Kellogg are committed to

preserving the heritage each community embodies, while

planning for the future. Whether you’re planning a Mississippi

River vacation, considering a weekend getaway to

Minnesota, looking to relocate, starting a new business

or just out to explore, we invite you to enjoy the many

year-round activities that the Wabasha-Kellogg area has

to offer.

Take your pick of annual festivities in which to join:

the Riverboat Days, SeptOberfest, Grumpy Old Men

Festival or on March weekends, SOAR with the Eagles.

There is so much to do in the area, with boating on

the beautiful Mississippi River, golfing, skiing, shopping,

bald eagle education and viewing, and more!

Send us your photos

for a chance to win

a $25 gift card!

Coupon Code: VisitBluff2023

info@visitbluffcountry.com

www.visitbluffcountry.com Wabasha, MN I 15

We have

lodging

options for

everyone!

Have an RV?

We have large full

service sites! All sites have 30/50

amp elec., city water & sewer.

Need a HOTEL ROOM?

We have clean, comfortable rooms

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Need a MEETING SPACE?

Our meeting room has a kitchen,

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trains to disturb the quiet atmosphere of the Resort!

OUR DOWNTOWN ACCOMODATIONS:

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3 bedroom 1 bath completely remodeled house near downtown Wabasha. Across the street from Slippery’s

Restaurant, steps from the Wabasha Swimming Beach and Mississippi River, and just blocks from

restaurants, shops, the National Eagle Center, and Friday nights Music Under the Bridge events. It is also a

short walk across the walking bridge to the Wabasha Marina. On-site laundry, WIFI, fire pit and grill.

DOWNTOWN FLATS A & B

Newly renovated street level apartments in downtown Wabasha. Perfectly situated for two couples who

travel together, but want their own private accomodations. Each unit has 1 bedroom and 1 bath, full kitchen,

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Visit our website www.BigRiverResort.com for pictures and more info. • 651-565-9932 • 1110 Hiawatha Drive E. Wabasha

16 I Wabasha, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

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Lake City, MN

Lake City, on the banks of Lake Pepin and the Mississippi

River, is located on Hwy. 61, (the Great

River Road) 68 miles southeast of Minneapolis/

St. Paul and 34 miles northeast of Rochester, Minn. Our

central location allows you more time biking, hiking,

boating, golfing, snowmobiling, browsing our quaint

shops and enjoying our restaurants. We welcome thousands

each year to Water Ski Days, Tour de Pepin, and

Junk Crush events.

Browse our unique shops and enjoy a full range of dining

options. There’s plenty to see, do, buy, and eat in Lake

City!

Lake City is a cyclist’s paradise. In addition to being

the home of the unique Tour de Pepin, we offer several

mapped rides and trails, perfect for cyclists of all ages and

skill levels.

Bike sharing in Lake City is free for daily use and is

available to anyone over the age of 18. The Lake City

Marina, open daily from April to October, is where you

can get one.

Our unique location on the Mississippi River Flyway,

a globally important migratory corridor, provides exceptional

year-round bird watching, including migrations of

bald eagles, trumpeter swans and warblers.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

Don't miss anything!

Visit both floors of our shop.

Open Every Day

Mar. - Dec.

Open

Wednesday-Saturday &

for special events

Jan.-Feb.

112 S. Washington St.

Lake City, Minnesota

Souvenir Apparel - The area's

best selection: Lake Pepin, Lake

City, Mississippi River, Pepie,

Birthplace of Waterskiing, and

more!

Name Brand Apparel Lines -

Tribal, Habitat, Liverpool, Lake

Girl, and more favorites!

Home and outdoor decor, gifts,

Kitchenwares, books, and candy.

Famous Homemade Fudge!

treatsandtreasureslakecity.com | 651-345-2882

www.visitbluffcountry.com Lake City, MN I 17

18 I Lake Pepin A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Hastings

3

Prescott

Freedom Park

3 7

Diamond Bluff

Hager City

Bay City

Maiden Rock

3 4 8

9

10

1

Barn Bluff

Lake Pepin

Mississippi River

Maiden Rock

60 miles to

Minneapolis/

St. Paul

>>100 MILES OF

DRIVING

Covill Park

Red Wing

5

8 9

12 89

13 10 9 11 10

6

12

13 14

Frontenac

State

Park

Frontenac

2

1

7

100 Miles of

3 4 5 6

FRIENDS

Hok Si La Park

7

Lake

City

37 miles to

Rochester

Stockholm

Lake Pepin

Mississippi River

Pepin

CC

Camp Lacupolis

1

4

10 11

4

8 2 5 6 11

C

5

Reads

Landi

6 7

15 16 Wab

12 13 14

12 13 14

BACKROADS

MAP KEY - see pages 16 & 17

for more detailed information.

1 SHOPPING

1 ACTIVITIES

1 LODGING

1 SERVICES

Zumbro Falls

The two major highways that parallel the Mississippi

River are well known national scenic byways and

both are designated as Great River Roadways

by their respective states and recently assigned

All-American Roads. But Mississippi Valley Partners

communities offer much more to visitors looking for a

scenic drive.

17 designated and mapped scenic drives for those

looking for ruggedly scenic rural country. For maps:

1 DINING &

NIGHTLIFE

Area Interests

MARINA

HISTORIC

SITE

MUSEUM

1 TOWN

MEMBERS

TRAVEL

CENTER

SCENIC

VISTA

STATE PARK

247

Plainview

Maiden Rock - www.wisconsindot.gov/Pages/travel/

road/rustic-roads/rr51.aspx.

AREA MAP

Pepin - Pepin County Development Office, P.O. Box

39, Durand, Wisconsin 54736 or call 888-672-

5709. www.visitpepincounty.com.

Winona - www.visitwinona.com, 160 Johnson St.,

Winona, Minnesota 55987. 800-657-4972.

Lake City Chamber of Commerce - 101 Center Street

W., Lake City, Minnesota 5504. 651-345-4123 or

800-369-4123 www.visitlakecity.org

18

-

www.VisitLakePepin.org

Fargo, ND

Sioux

Falls

SD

18

Twin

Cities

Duluth

Rochester

Madison

Mississippi Valley

Partners

Milwaukee

Chicago, IL

2022 Lake Pepin Area Travel Guide

Rochester

www.visitbluffcountry.com Lake Pepin I 19

0 11

2

4

Pepin

CC

5

olis

6 11

Chippewa River

Tiffany

Bottoms

Wildlife

Area

5

Reads

Landing

6 7

15 16 Wabasha

12 13 14

12 13 14

Kruger

Park

45 miles to

Menomonie (I-94)

Zumbro River

41 miles to

Rochester

>>100 MILES OF

DRIVING

Wisconsin

Nelson

55 miles to

LaCrosse (I-90)

3

Kellogg

1 2 5 6

Rieck’s Lake Park

55 miles to

Eau Claire

Weaver Dunes

Wildlife Area

VISTAS

Alma

1 2

Buena Vista Park

The Upper Mississippi Valley is one of the most beautiful natural

wonders in the United States. The wide valley, with its wooded and

rock-face bluffs, can be seen at the numerous overlooks along Hwy

61 (MN) and Hwy 35 (WI).

Red Wing has two vistas that offer incredible views – Sorin’s

Bluff and Barn Bluff – one easily accessible by vehicle, and the

other requiring a strenuous hike. To find Sorin’s Bluff, take Hwy 61

to 7th St.. Follow 7th St. west for a half-mile. For Barn Bluff, follow

7th St. further west to Bluff St., turn right and go two blocks to 5th St.

Turn right on 5th and follow the road under Hwy 63/61 to a small

parking area. You’ll need to hike from there!

Frontenac State Park offers unparalleled views of Lake Pepin

and the limestone bluff faces across the river in Wisconsin. The main

park road takes visitors to an overlook 430 feet above the river.

Wabasha is located another 25 miles down Hwy 61. At Hwy 61

and 60, turn right on Hwy 60 one mile and park at roadside for a

panoramic view of the river valley.

The vista with the highest elevation (575’) in this area is Garvin

Heights in Winona. Driving downriver on Hwy 61, turn right at Huff

St., and follow Garvin Heights Rd. (which becomes High Rd.) to the

parking area.

Alma offers 500-foot high views of the river and valley. Buena

Vista Park - turn off Hwy 35 onto Co. Rd. E near the south end of

town and follow signs to the parking lot. The overlook is a short walk

across the picnic area and features a great view of Alma, the river

valley, and Lock and Dam #4.

Maiden Rock Bluff, is located in Wisconsin between Stockholm

and Maiden Rock. Enjoy raptor sightings, including the rare

peregrine falcon. Start at the junction of Hwy 35 and Co. Rd. J in

Stockholm. Head north on Co. Rd. J three-quarters of a mile, turn

northwest on Co. Rd. E for one mile, and then west on Long Lane for

7/10 of a mile.

In Prescott the Great River Road Visitor and Learning Center at

Freedom Park, located at the northern gateway to Wisconsin’s Great

Buffalo City River Road, a National Scenic Byway and All-American Road,

overlooks the scenic upper Mississippi River Valley where the St.

Croix River enters the mighty Mississippi.

Cochrane

14

247

Plainview

Weaver

74

3

Minneiska

25

Merrick

State

Park

88

9

Minnesota

Rollingstone

10

248

4

Minnesota

City

23

Fountain

City

9 miles to Winona

1

4

2

46

www.VisitLakePepin.org

19

Winona

7

15

2022 Lake Pepin Area Travel Guide

14

Garvin Heights

14

Pickwick

South on Hwy 61, right on 7

20 I Lake City/Red Wing, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

Over 85 species of game fish can be angled year round

in the boundary waters of the 20-mile long Lake Pepin.

With nearly seven miles of shoreline along the lake, Lake

City offers many opportunities for shore fishing as well

as two designated trout streams. In 2015, the Cabela’s

National Walleye Tour brought hundreds of anglers and

spectators to Lake City.

Located along the banks of the Mississippi River, the city of Red

Wing has so much to offer. Hiking trails throughout the city

parks are a great way to enjoy the fresh air. Barn Bluff and Memorial

Park both offer stunning views of the entire city and nearby area.

Home to the famous Red Wing Shoes, this town is no stranger to hard

work. And, with bald eagles nesting along its shores, historic buildings,

and technological innovations, Red Wing really is a small slice of the

American Dream.

After touring the pottery, antique instrument, military, or ski jumping

museums, cool off at the water park, which offers a zero depth entry

area. Red Wing also boasts a thriving art community, a number of golfing

opportunities, plus numerous dining and lodging options!

Lakeside

Antiques

Vintage | Collectibles | Furniture | Art

Pottery | Books | Vinyl

106 E Center St Lake City, MN | 651-345-4800

The World's Largest & Most

Extensive Collection of Red

Wing Clay Products

FREE ADMISSION

240 Harrison St.

651-327-2220

PotteryMuseumRedWing.org

Pepin, WI

Pepin was established in 1856 by the Pepin brothers,

two early French trappers who were enchanted

with the area’s natural beauty. The village became a

steamboat boomtown familiar to Mark Twain and wealthy

Chicago socialites who summered on Lake Pepin.

A world-famous resident is also an attraction for thousands

of visitors to Pepin each year. Laura Ingalls Wilder

was born in a log cabin just north of the village, where

her early adventures became the basis of her book, “Little

House in the Big Woods.” A reconstruction of the cabin

built by Pa Ingalls sits at the birth site on County Road CC.

In the heart of Pepin is the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum,

where people can learn more about Laura’s early life and the

early history of Pepin. Laura Ingalls Wilder Days, held the

second full weekend of September, brings Laura’s era back

to life for young and old.

If you wish to extend your stay in Pepin, we know you’ll

find pleasure at one of our motels, VRBO properties or at

the fully equipped campground. We offer dining options

to satisfy a variety of tastes; fine cuisine paired with awardwinning

wine, burgers ‘n beer, pizza, and ice cream treats.

If shopping for unique items, you’ll find garden art and

perennials, jewelry, clothing, and fun novelty items in the

gift shops and boutiques.

During the holiday season, you must visit Pepin for the


www.visitbluffcountry.com Pepin, WI I 21

Visit

June 2, 3 & 4

Spring Fresh Art Tour

Select weekends in May thru August

Home at Laura's Place

July 15

Stockholm Art Fair

September 9 & 10

Laura Ingalls Wilder Days

October 6, 7, 8

Fall Fresh Art Tour

November 3, 4 & 5

Women's Weekend

Stay

Motels

Pepin Motel & Campground

305 Elm Street, Pepin, WI

715-442-2012

Great River Amish Inn

311 Third Street, Pepin, WI

715-442-5400

Vacation Rental properties

Many other options on VRBO or Airbnb!

Contact Us

destinationpepin.com

Sat. & Sun. mid-Nov. thru Christmas

Villa Bellezza's Outdoor Christmas Market

22 I Pepin/Stockholm, WI A Guide to Historic Bluff Country


outdoor European holiday market where crafts persons and

artisans display their one-of-a-kind wares.

Our natural attraction, Lake Pepin, provides great fishing

and boating. You’ll find water access and boat launching

services, as well as an accessible fish cleaning station and

public restrooms along the waterfront.

Come to Pepin for all of this and more. For more information,

visit www.destinationpepin.com or find us on Facebook

at Destination Pepin.

The Village of Stockholm, Wis., sits against the

shores of Lake Pepin, directly across the water

from Minnesota’s Lake City. The Village is home

to an adorable collection of unique and classy businesses

and restaurants and a popular destination from the metro

area of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Surrounding the village

is the rural township of Stockholm, which is home

to a winery and cidery, a pizza farm, numerous stunning

wedding venues and vacation rentals and the famous

Maiden Rock Bluff natural area, with a restored prairie

and breathtaking views of Lake Pepin. Camping, hiking,

hunting, fishing, shopping, wine tasting and fine dining

are all within easy travel distance in this charming and

friendly little community.

For more information visit: www.townofstockholm.

org, https://www.villageofstockholm.com/, and https://www.

thewestcoastofwisconsin.com/.

Unique gifts, decor, apparel,

handbags, candles, games, puzzles,

specialty food & candy, along with

locally one of a kind artisan made

handcrafted items and so much more.

Located on the Great River Road.




Alma, WI

Enjoy the early river town atmosphere of the 19th Century in

Alma! Perched on a narrow strip of land between the Mississippi

River and 500-foot limestone bluffs, this small town is only two

streets wide, with 12 unique stairstep streets and a “dugway” to the top

of the bluff. Alma is designated as a National Historic District because

of the preservation of over 200 waterfront 19th century buildings. Some

of these are now great lodging options.

Alma offers 30 trains a day for train buffs, the old Burlington Railroad

Hotel, and a walking bridge over the tracks to Lock & Dam #4,

where you can stand and watch the trains pass.

Alma is well known for bald eagles, tundra swans, herons and

pelicans. Rieck’s Lake offers opportunities to view migrating tundra

swans. View bald eagles all year in Alma, but from December through

February, wintering bald eagles congregate around Lock and Dam #4

to feed.

Alma is the only local river town to offer lock and dam viewing from

city streets, with two area marinas, four boat ramps and a sand swimming

beach. The mid-town courtesy dock offers visitors the opportunity

to dock and enjoy the city’s many attractions.

Whether you want to explore the quaint shops and galleries, dine in

some great restaurants, see a world-class collection of authentic arms and

armor at Castlerock Museum, or enjoy nature by paddling trails of the

Mississippi backwaters, fishing, hiking the trails, or birding, you’ll fill

your visit with great memories! Stop at our Wings Over Alma Visitor

Center or visit almawisconsin.com for more.

Arms, Armor and Art

come and see

a world class museum

on the great river road

Authentic arms and armor used by Grecians,

Romans, Dark Age Warriors, Vikings, Crusaders

and Renaissance “Knights in Shining Armor.”

Open Fridays and Saturdays, 1 to 4 pm

(Sundays – June through August)

Group days by appointment

www.castlerockmuseum.com

402 South 2nd Street, Alma, WI 54610

www.visitbluffcountry.com Stockholm, WI I 23

24 I Galesville, WI A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

WE ARE LIKE A CRAFT SHOW ALL

YEAR LONG!

• Easy parking for buses

& campers

• Open 7 days a week,

year round

W17878 Silver Creek Rd

{ }

IDE

Directions: Hwy 53 through Galesville, WI; turn at the grocery

store onto Silver Creek Rd, Craft Barn down 1 ½ miles on the left

608.582.3447 • www.craftbarngalesville.com

Golf Tour Map

On page

160

Galesville, Wisconsin, is 20 minutes north of La

Crosse, Wisconsin, located in the unglaciated

region of the Mississippi River Valley. Founded

by Judge George Gale in 1854, this picturesque community

is nestled among rolling hills, towering cliffs,

beautiful forests, and spring fed streams.

Galesville is home to Lake Marinuka, Decorah Peak,

East Side Farm, Old Main Historical & Community Arts

Center and High Cliff Park. Our Nationally Acclaimed

10-foot apple pie is the centerpiece of Apple Affair always

held on the first Saturday of October. This fun-filled

family event features live music, great food and an abundance

of artisans and vendors celebrating everything

apple all day long. While you are here: tour our apple

orchards and vineyards; explore our walking, hiking and

biking trails; experience fine dining; enjoy golfing, fishing,

hunting, kayaking or snowmobiling; and visit boutique

and specialty shops in our downtown district. Be

sure to take a picture at our Historic Downtown Square,

which earned the prestigious Scenic Beauty Award from

Citizens for a Scenic Wisconsin.

Warrens, WI

Home of the world’s largest cranberry festival, Warrens

hosts more than 140,000 visitors during the

last full weekend each September to experience

three amazing days of shopping, food, contests, marsh tours

and more.

But, if you’ve only visited Warrens during cranberry

season, it’s time to see what if offers year round! You can

spend your entire vacation here in the Cranberry Capital

of Wisconsin! Local campgrounds, log-style villas, vacation

homes and a luxury hotel offer the ideal settings for

relaxation after swimming in our indoor and outdoor water

parks, riding our ATV routes and snowmobile trails, touring

a cranberry marsh, and visiting the Wisconsin Cranberry

Discovery Center (Warren’s unofficial visitor’s center)

to learn all about Wisconsin’s No. 1 fruit crop.

Our area has plenty of restaurants and lodging options,

local fruit and vegetable farms, specialty shops, and other

area businesses and services available to you during your

visit to Warrens.

Are you looking to retire or raise your children in a

small town? While Warrens has less than 400 year-round

residents, it boasts an elementary school, a clinic, new

playground, softball field, parks, several youth and adult

organizations, and five churches located in or near Warrens.

Go to visitwarrens.com for more scheduled events and

information.

OPEN

7:00 am

to

5:00 pm

Friday,

Saturday

& Sunday

• 850 Arts & Crafts Booths

• 350 Antiques & Flea Market Booths

• Cranfest Marsh Tours FRIDAY & SATURDAY

• 100 Farm Market Booths

• 100 Food Vendors

• Gigantic Parade SUNDAY AT 1

8 miles North of Tomah >> Take I-94 West to Exit 135

WWW.CRANFEST.COM • CRANFEST@CRANFEST.COM

PHONE: 608-378-4200 • FAX: 608-378-4250

www.visitbluffcountry.com La Crosse, WI I 25

La Crosse was incorporated as a city in 1856, but its

history dates further. The first Europeans to see the

site of La Crosse were French fur traders who traveled

the Mississippi River in the late 17th century. There

is no written record, however, of any visit to the site until

1805, when Lt. Zebulon Pike mounted an expedition up

the Mississippi River for the U.S. Pike recorded the location’s

name as “Prairie La Crosse.” The name originated

when he saw the Native Americans playing a game with

sticks that resembled a bishop’s crozier, or la crosse in

French.

A small Mormon community settled at La Crosse in

1844, building several dozen cabins a few miles south of

Myrick’s post. The land they occupied near La Crosse

continues to bear the name Mormon Coulee.

In 1850, Father James Lloyd Breck of the Episcopal

Church said the first Christian liturgy on top of Grandad

Bluff. Today a monument to that event stands atop the

bluff, near the parking lot at a scenic overlook.

More permanent development took place closer to

Myrick’s trading post, where stores, a hotel, and a post

office were constructed during the 1840s. The city grew

even more rapidly after 1858 with the completion of the

La Crosse & Milwaukee Railroad, the second railroad

connecting Milwaukee to the Mississippi River.

During the second half of the 19th century, La Crosse

grew to become one of the largest cities in Wisconsin, and

today it is the largest city on Wisconsin’s western border.


PLEDGE NEVER TO FORGET

Experience a lasting and moving tribute to our veterans.

Open Monday through Saturday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.,

display includes many personal photos and stories.

Touch screen monitors provide an interactive experience.

Visit, experience

and honor our veterans.

The Veterans Hall of Honor

Veterans Memorial Field Sports Complex on the

University of Wisconsin-La Crosse Campus

UW-LA CROSSE FOUNDATION INC.

615 615 East East Ave. Ave. N. N. | La Crosse, WI 54602 54601 | | 608.785.6803

foundation@uwlax.edu | | www.foundation.uwlax.edu

www.uwlax.edu/foundation

Relax.

Cruise the Mississippi

APRIL THROUGH OCTOBER

• Sightseeing Cruises

• Lunch Cruises

• 3-Hour Cruises

• Pizza Cruises

• Weeknight & Weekend

Dinner Cruises

• Brunch Cruises

lacrossequeen.com

405 Veterans Memorial Drive ■ P.O. Box 1805 ■ La Crosse, WI 54602 ■ 608-784-8523 ■ info@lacrossequeen.com

26 I La Crosse, WI A Guide to Historic Bluff Country


Around the turn of the 20th century, the city also became

a center for education, with three colleges and universities

established in the city between 1890 and 1912; the educational

institutions in the city have recently led it toward

becoming a regional technology and medical hub.

The meandering waterways of the La Crosse area are

a paddling paradise, offering wetlands courses for gentle

canoe rides as well as moderate to strenuous kayaking

adventures along the Mississippi, Black, or La Crosse Rivers.

Canoe trails, launches, and outfitters abound in the

area, making it one of the best paddling destinations in

the region.

Situated directly on the Mississippi River just three

miles south of La Crosse’s largest county campground,

Goose Island Campground & Park is popular for its

nature trails, excellent fishing, and beautiful views and

sunsets. The canoe trail has seven miles of moderate paddling

that will take you 4-5 hours to complete. Canoe

rentals are available from Goose Island County Park.

Many other area towns offer outdoor services and rentals,

giving you ample opportunity for southwest Wisconsin

touring.

Shopping and dining is at its best in La Crosse, with a

large variety of ethnic restuarants, family diners and supper

clubs, commercial and independent stores, one of the

largest antique malls in the state, plus loads of arts and

culture and well-known festivals.

Antique Center

Downtown La Crosse

110 South 3rd Street

• One of the Midwest’s

finest shops

• 20,000 sq. ft. of quality

antiques

• 70+ booths

• 1 block from the

La Crosse Center

Mon.-Sat. 9 am-5:30 pm

Sun. 11 am - 5:30 pm

608-782-6533

www.antiquecenteroflacrosse.com

Come In For A Unique Shopping Experience

www.visitbluffcountry.com La Crosse, WI I 27

ADVENTURE AWAITS NESTLED BETWEEN THE BLUFFS

& ALONG THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER IN THE LA CROSSE REGION

Use our Visitor Guide

to plan your stay nestled

between bluffs & along

the Mississippi River.

Discover your epic 2023

adventures in our new

library of custom, easyto-follow

itineraries.

Subscribe to our Explore

La Crosse newsletters

with sweepstakes, blogs,

events, & more.

28 I Onalaska, WI A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

TOP 3 BIKING TRAILS

GREAT RIVER STATE TRAIL

ONALASKA, WI TO MARSHLAND, WI

ROOT RIVER STATE TRAIL

TROUT RUN TRAIL

DECORAH, IA

FOUNTAIN, MN TO HOUSTON, MN

Onalaska offers many beautiful parks that feature a variety

of year-round recreational opportunities for its residents

and visitors to the community. Park facilities include

pickle and tennis courts, playgrounds, volleyball courts, basketball

courts, horseshoe pits, shelters, athletic fields, picnic sites,

walking paths, skating rinks, a sledding hill, and an outdoor pool.

The Omni Center (www.omnicenter.net) is a focal point of

community activity and is a destination for all seasons with a

winter ice arena hosting hockey and skating. The facility offers a

host of activities ranging from trade shows, community festivals

such as Celebrate Onalaska, spring and fall craft and gift shows,

MMA bouts, picnics and weddings, and the newest event will be

three Market in Park craft shows that will be held at the Omni

Center parks at 255 Riders Club Road.

The City of Onalaska has two fairly new additions to its beauty

with the opening of Dash Park at 200 Main St., which hosts a

free concert every Tuesday evening, June through August, - bring

a chair or sit on the grass and listen to your favorite melodies.

Just across the street from Dash Park is the Great River Landing

which serves as the trail head for the Great River State Trail that

connects 101 miles of state bicycle trails, and offers access to the

120-acre ecologically diverse Wittenberg Marsh, the Onalaska

Spillway, the Black and Mississippi Rivers, and Lake Onalaska.

We want visitors that come to Onalaska to explore, experience

and enjoy what our little piece of Wisconsin has to offer. For

more information visit our website or call (608) 781-9560, ext.

247.

STAY WITH US AT LA CROSSE'S/

ONALASKA'S NEWEST HOTEL

2614 Midwest Drive,

Onalaska/La Crosse

608-667-3030

• FREE EXPRESS

BREAKFAST BAR

• KIDDIE POOL

• WHIRLPOOL

• 2 MEETING ROOMS

• 136 ROOMS/SUITES

www.visitbluffcountry.com Wisconsin Area Visitor Centers I 29

VISITOR CENTER AT WINGS OVER ALMA

110 N Main St

Alma, WI 54610

608-685-3303

almawisconsin.com

GALESVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

P.O. Box 196

Galesville, WI 54630

608) 582-2868

galesvillewi.com

LA CROSSE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

601 7th St. N • La Crosse, WI 54601

608-784-4880 • 800-889-0539

lacrossechamber.com

LA CROSSE CONVENTION & VISITOR BUREAU

410 E. Veterans Memorial Dr.

La Crosse, WI 54601

608-782-2366

explorelacrosse.com

PLATTEVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

275 W Business Hwy 151, Box 724

Platteville, WI 53818

608-348-8888

platteville.com

PRAIRIE DU CHIEN AREA CHAMBER OF

COMMERCE & TOURISM/REGIONAL TOURISM

CENTER - WISCONSIN TRAVEL CENTER

211 S Main St, PO Box 326

Prairie du Chien, WI 53821

608-326-8555 or 1-800-732-1673

prairieduchien.org

SPARTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE/

SPARTA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

111 Milwaukee St. • Sparta, WI 54656

608-269-4123

bikesparta.org

TOMAH CHAMBER - VISITORS CENTER

901 Kilbourn Ave • Tomah, WI 54660

608-372-2166 • 800-948-6624

tomahwisconsin.com

TREMPEALEAU CHAMBER OF

COMMERCE & TOURISM

24455 3rd St. • Trempealeau, WI 54661

608-534-6780

trempealeau.net

WESTBY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

P. O. Box 94

Westby, WI 54667

608-634-4011 • 866-493-7829

westbywi@gmail.com

WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM

P. O. Box 7976 • Madison, WI 53707

608-266-7621 • 800-432-TRIP

travelwisconsin.com

Scenic Byways map

on pages 58-59

Minnesota Area Visitor Centers

CALEDONIA CHAMBER OF

COMMERCE

120 South Kingston

Caledonia, MN 55921

507-725-5477 • 877-439-4893

caledoniachamberofcommerce.com

CHATFIELD TOURIST

INFORMATION CENTER

16 Second Street SE

Chatfield, MN 55923

507-867-3966

ci.chatfield.mn.us

CITY OF FOUNTAIN

104 Main St., P.O. Box 115

Fountain, MN 55935

507-268-4923

bluffcountry.com/fountain.html

HARMONY AREA CHAMBER

OF COMMERCE

15 2nd St. NW

Harmony, MN 55939

877-251-0606

exploreharmony.com

HOUSTON AREA CHAMBER

OF COMMERCE

P.O. Box 3

Houston, MN 55943

507-896-4668

houstonmnchamber.com

LANESBORO AREA CHAMBER

OF COMMERCE

100 Milwaukee Rd.

Lanesboro, MN 55949

507-467-2696 • 800-944-2670

lanesboro.com

LA CRESCENT CHAMBER OF

COMMERCE AND TOURIST

INFORMATION CENTER

111 South Walnut Street, Suite B

La Crescent, MN 55947

507-895-2800 • 800-926-9480

LaCrescent.Chamber@acegroup.cc

LEROY VISITOR INFORMATION

122 W. Main St.

LeRoy, MN 55951

507-324-5707

visitleroy.com

CITY OF MABEL

PO Box 311

Mabel, MN 55954

507-493-5350

cityofmabel.com

PETERSON STATION MUSEUM AND

VISITOR CENTER

233 Mill St, PO Box 233

Peterson, MN 55962

507-875-2415 or 507-875-2267

petersonmn.org

PRESTON AREA CHAMBER

OF COMMERCE

P.O. Box 123

Preston, MN 55965

507-421-8911

prestonmnchamber.com

PRESTON AREA TOURISM

PO Box 657

Preston, MN 55965

507-765-2100 • 888-845-2100

prestonmn.org

RED WING AREA

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

439 Main St

Red Wing, MN 55066

redwingchamber.com

RUSHFORD PETERSON VALLEY

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

305 S. Elm St.

Rushford, MN 55971

507-864-3338

rushfordpetersonvalley.com

SPRING GROVE

(Apr-Nov) Ballard House Antiques

PO Box 241 • 507-498-5434

(Dec-Mar) City Hall • PO Box 218

507-498-5221

Spring Grove, MN 55974

springgrovemn.com

SPRING VALLEY CHAMBER

OF COMMERCE

201 S. Broadway

Spring Valley, MN 55975

507-346-1015

springvalleychamberofcommerce.

com

WABASHA/KELLOGG CHAMBER OF

COMMERCE

160 W. Main St.

Wabasha, MN 55981

651-565-4158

wabashamn.org

WINONA AREA CHAMBER

OF COMMERCE

67 Main St.

Winona, MN 55987

507-452-2272 • 800-565-4158

winonachamber.com

VISIT WINONA - VISITOR CENTER

924 Huff St.

Winona, MN 55987

507-452-2278

visitwinona.com

WYKOFF TOURIST

INFORMATION CENTER

P.O. Box 205

Wykoff, MN 55990

507-352-4205

CITY OF KELLOGG

P.O. Box 147, Kellogg, MN

507-767-4953

cityofkellogg.org

Do you want to advertise in this publication?

Contact the office at 800-599-0481 with any questions!

30 I Winona, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Expansive panoramas, stately bluffs rising against the

edges of thick, forested valleys, and in the middle of it all,

a city on a massive sandbar along the powerful Mississippi

River. Winona is a quintessential river city rich in history,

culture, arts, architecture, and natural beauty.

Home to the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife &

Fish Refuge, the river provides a backdrop

for limitless wildlife — literally

millions of birds — and aquatic life

on the Mississippi River Flyway. At

Great River Bluffs State Park, dense

hardwood forests and native wildflower

prairies frame the valley below.

Named one of the “Best Places to

See Fall Color” by CBS Minnesota,

it’s no wonder why it has also been

chosen one of National Geographic’s

“World’s Greatest Driving Tours.”

Looking out from the highest vantage

point, 450 feet above the city,

is the famous Sugar Loaf landmark,

which resulted from limestone quarrying

in the 1880s. Native American legend ties the site to the

well-known cap of Dakota Nation Chief Wapahasha, turned

to stone. Outdoor enthusiasts will be keen to hike trails up the

bluff to its base, offering a dramatic view point.

Across the bluff sits Garvin Heights Park with inspiring outlooks,

hiking, and restored goat prairies. Below, encircling Lake

Winona, is Lake Park, home to the C.A. Rohrer Rose Garden,

Veterans Memorial Park and Bandshell. Levee Park allows an

up-close encounter with the Mississippi River. Occasionally,

paddlewheel and other historic riverboats still dock here.

Walking tours of historic homes, churches, banks, and

courthouse highlight the culture of early settlers. Astounding

glass art within the city has earned Winona the designation of

Stained Glass Capital of the U.S. along with

the largest stained glass studio company.

Attractions such as the Minnesota Marine

Art Museum, Polish Cultural Institute

and Museum, Watkins Heritage Museum,

and Winona County History Center continue

the storytelling of Winona’s past and

present.

Fine and performing arts thrive

in Winona. Area artisans’ diverse works

are showcased in a variety of places, and

many of the artists participate in the Bluff

Country Studio Arts Tour, Theatre du

Mississippi, a professional company, the

Performance Center at St. Mary’s University,

Winona State University Arts, Theatre,

& Dance, and MN Conservatory of the Arts continue to grow

the development and production of arts programs.

Festivals are a popular draw to Winona. Mid West Music Fest

(May), Dixieland Jazz Festival (July), Minnesota Beethoven

Festival (June-July), Steamboat Days (June), six-week Great


Junction of

Hwy 14 &

Hwy 61 N.

• Free secure wireless internet

• Extended breakfast

• 1-bedroom apartment w/ full kitchen

and living room, seats for 20 & a patio

• Pet friendly hotel w/ extra charge

(2 pets per room), specify at booking

• Meeting space available - up to 24 people

• 100% non-smoking hotel

• Fitness room: open 6 am-11pm

• Public guest computer: 24 hours a day

• Wyndam reward point on eligible stays

420 Cottonwood Drive

Winona, MN

507-454-6930 • 1-800-DAYS-INN

www.daysinn.com

www.visitbluffcountry.com Winona, MN I 31

32 I Winona, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country


River Shakespeare Festival (June-August), Boats and Bluegrass

Festival (September), Sandbar Storytelling Festival (October),

and Frozen River Film Festival (February), beckon visitors to

not only enjoy the arts, but to participate. The Great Dakota

Gathering (September) honors the native people who inhabit

this land. Created with sacred stonework and native prairie

plantings, the site sets the stage for the Wacipi (pow wow),

Akicita (warrior/veterans) Honor Ceremony, educational exhibits

and demonstrations, and authentic crafts, arts, and foods

celebrating the rich heritage of the people.

The Great River Road Wine Trail rests in the Upper Mississippi

River Valley American Viticulture Area, the nation’s

largest. A vineyard sits atop the bluff outside the city, producing

choice wines from cold climate grapes grown on the farm and

finished in oak barrels of native Minnesota oak. The Winona

area also boasts one craft brewery.

Minnesota’s best bakery, as voted in 2013, is located in

Winona. Other delightful culinary options range from baked

goods to thriving coffee spots and cafés, gourmet dining overlooking

a golf course, and ethnic restaurants. For fun, historic

fare, visitors can’t beat a stop at the local drive-in, complete

with homemade root beer and friendly carhop service.

Throughout the city, shops and boutiques offer up everything

from antiques and collectibles to music and books, and

specialty boutiques to recreational outfitters. Ample hotels,

B&Bs, cabins, cottages, lodges, Vrbos and campgrounds make

lodging in Winona a simple matter of choice.

Open at noon everyday!

65 East Front St Winona, MN 55987

507-961-5015

islandcitybrew.com

A community of beer

enthusiasts and

beginners alike

FEEL LIKE YOU'RE AT HOME

EVEN WHEN YOU'RE NOT.

We do all we can to make you feel at home. Friendly

service, comfortable rooms, 40" flat screen TVs

and all the ammenities you want, at the best overall

value you can find!

Americinn.com | 800.634.3444

AmericInn by Wyndham

303 Peltzer St | Winona, MN

507.474.7700

www.visitbluffcountry.com Winona/Nodine, MN I 33

Nodine is located just off I-90 at the 267 exit, on the ridge above

the Mississippi river. This area’s hills and valleys are so different

from much of Minnesota’s flat prairies. As part of the “Apple

Blossom Scenic Drive,” in May the apple trees explode with pink and

white blossoms and an awesome fragrance.

Nodine was settled by mostly German people, with their 4th and 5th

generations still living in the area. There is a Lutheran Church and day

school, and the “Culvert Man” featured in Road Side Attractions website

is photographed almost daily during the summer tourist season.

Visit on the 4th of July to enjoy our parade through town and train

rides, next to the antique shop. If you happen to be a camper or hiker,

take advantage of the Great River Bluffs park just North of the exit.

Timeless treasures, cool collectibles, unique antiques, & vintage finds.

STEP INTO

WINONA COUNTYʼS

STORIED PAST

160 Johnson Street

Winona, Minnesota

507.454.2723

winonahistory.org

Timeless treasures, cool collectibles, unique antiques, & vintage finds.

507-643-6889 • 507-458-7691

42846 County Rd 12 • Nodine, MN

WWW.MNANTIQUES.COM

We would like to thank everyone for

their photo submissions!

2023-2024

2023-2024




2023-2024

These photographers

were featured

throughout the

2023-2024

Visit Bluff Country Magazine!

THE ART OF VISITING

BLUFF COUNTRY

THE ART OF VISITING

BLUFF COUNTRY



Country home.



Country home.

THE ART OF VISITING

BLUFF COUNTRY

TROUT FISHING

FOR ALL AGES

TROUT FISHING

FOR ALL AGES



everything trout.



everything trout.

WELCOME TO

AMISH COUNTRY

WELCOME TO

AMISH COUNTRY

WELCOME TO

AMISH COUNTRY








Country home.

TROUT FISHING

FOR ALL AGES



everything trout.




FREE

FREE

FREE

Joni Mehus • Kristi Danielson

Barb Jeffers • Gary Erickson • Jen Redalen


Send your photos to info@visitbluffcountry.com for an

opportunity to appear in next year’s magazine.

34 I La Crescent, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

BE A VBC

WINNER!

VOTE FOR


CAMPING

ESSENTIALS


La Crescent is uniquely located on three scenic

byways; Apple Blossom Scenic Byway, National

Historic Bluff Country Scenic Byway and the

Great River Road all pass through La Crescent. Come

enjoy all the beauty of southeastern Minnesota and the

Mississippi River. You will find plenty of outdoor recreation

with hiking, bicycling, boating, kayaking, fishing,

birding, snowshoeing and more!

La Crescent is “The Apple Capital of Minnesota”!

Steeped in tradition, La Crescent has been celebrating the

apple harvest for over 70 years. Visit us mid-May when

the apple blossoms are in full bloom and the colors in the

apple trees are spectacular. Join us the second Saturday in

August for the Apple Blossom Bike Tour, an annual bike

tour featuring five different rides – from a scenic 16-mile

ride along the Mississippi River bed to the 100-mile ride

along the tops of the bluffs. Apple Fest is held the third

weekend in September and offers fun for the whole family,

culminating with the King Apple Parade on Sunday

afternoon. Be sure to sample some of our many delicious

and unique varieties of home-grown apples. Enjoy the

local farmers market held Tuesdays from 4-7 p.m. at the

Event Center parking lot from May through October.

Enjoy the drive and stay for the fun!





www.visitbluffcountry.com La Crescent, MN I 35

Blocks, Tour Groups,

Corporate Travel, Leisure

Connected to the

La Crescent Event Center

Fitness & Business Center

Close to outdoor

recreational activities:

hiking, biking, river

tours and bird watching

Rooms large enough for

safe bicycle storage

• Conference Room

• On-site and nearby local dining

• Large parking lot great for truck/

boat, RVs, tour bus, motorcycle

groups

• Short drive from the La Crosse

Airport and Amtrak Station; contact

hotel to discuss shuttle options

• Perfect stay for day trips along

scenic byways including the

Apple Blossom Trail and Historic

Bluff Country Byway

507-895-1001 | LaCrescentHotel.com

509 N. Chestnut Street, La Crescent, MN

36 I La Crescent, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

(507) 895-4239 | 444 N. Chestnut Street La Crescent, MN

#getschmittfaced

You gotta try our Award-Winning Wings,

Bloody Mary Bar, and Vikings Parties!

Great burgers, wraps & pizza!

Daily Food & Drink Specials

Happy Hour M-F 4-6pm

Relaxed casual atmosphere

Open daily at 11am

www.schmittystimeout.com

Hokah, MN

Hokah, Minnesota, is a small town located where

Minnesota State Hwy. 44 meets the Historic

Bluff Country National Scenic Byway on Minnesota

Hwy. 16, and is just 15 minutes from La Crosse,

Wis. Founded in 1851, the city is named after a local

Native American chief, Wecheschatope Hokah. Our

beautiful Root River provides opportunities for canoes,

kayaks, and fishing, but Hokah’s main attraction is the

beautiful Como Falls, the site of countless weddings, gettogethers,

and happy memories. Beyond the falls lies the

truly unique Hokah Pool, a spring-fed, sand-bottom pool

with no chemicals, for an experience unlike any other.

Hokah also boasts four parks, horseshoe courts, and a

ball diamond.

Take a walk down Main Street to browse antiques,

sample local food, and find just about anything at the

expansive hardware store. After filling up at any of our

eateries, curl up with a nice book in our cozy town library.

For a little longer stay, stop by the Hokah City Center

where highly customizable space is available for rent at a

fair price. Join us on a Sunday morning in worshiping at

one of our four churches, or come for events put on by

our local organizations.

OPEN

MON. - SAT.

7AM TO 2PM

Locally

Sourced

(507) 894-1111

facebook.com/freerangeexchange

COFFEE • EATS • TREATS

A mini fArmers mArket coffee cAfe

46 Main St. | Hokah, MN 55941

www.visitbluffcountry.com Brownsville, MN I 37

Brownsville, Minnesota, is perched on the magnificent

Mississippi and offers scenic beauty and some

of the best fishing anywhere. The annual Lions Club

Celebration “Brownsville Days” in June each year showcases

the town’s best qualities. Visit historic sites including

old brewery caves and Church of the Holy Comforter with

its unique architecture. The location Brownsville, and the

first village in Houston County, was chosen by Job Brown.

The site was chosen for the unique location on the river.

The city of Brownsville is a beautiful town located along

the bluffs of the Mississippi River. Brownsville became

the first established town in Minnesota Territory in 1848.

Today it is a quaint community with local amenities and

activities for residents and visitors traveling the Great River

Road on Highway 61.

Brownsville is a bustling community with an average

population of 500 residents. In the fall, visitors gather

around the town to watch the Tundra Swan migration.

Currently, the Brownsville area provides recreation for

residents and visitors. Wildcat Landing has a public boat

landing and well-maintained, riverside campsite facilities.

Further up the channel, Lawrence Lake Marina offers bait,

boat rentals, boat slips, snacks, fishing licenses, gift store

and antiques. To catch a glimpse of Brownsville history,

stop at the Community Center during morning hours and

check out the Historical Room.

The City of Brownsville continues to be a travel destination

for bird-watchers, outdoor enthusiasts and more.

VOTE FOR

BE A VBC

WINNER!


BLACKSTONE






Saxon Hall is your destination

for the best pizza around.

702 MAIN STREET, BROWNSVILLE, MN 55919

507-482-4255

saxonhallpizza.com

ROOM AND BEER GARDEN AVAILABLE FOR RENT

WE DO NOT ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS (ATM is available)

You may come as a stranger, but will leave as a friend!

38 I Brownsville, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

APPAREL • BEER • WINE • SPIRITS • FOOD • GIFT SHOP • RECREATION • ENTERTAINMENT

CONTACT US

Phone: (507) 482-6615

lawrencelakemarina.com

VISIT US

Located on the Mississippi

River one mile north of

Brownsville, MN at mile

marker 690

HOURS

Wednesday

Wing Night

The Barge

Thursday

The Barge

Friday

Steak Night

The Barge

Sat. & Sun.

The Barge

Mon. & Tues.

10am-Close

4pm-Close

4pm-Close

10am-Close

Noon-Close

10am-Close

4pm-Close

Noon-Close

10am-Close

Noon-Close

CLOSED

HOME OF THE FRIDAY

NIGHT STEAK FRY

Come see us for our

“famous” Steak Fry with

Live Music from 6-9pm

THE OASIS

Minnesota’s smallest

liquor store with a GREAT

selection

LIVE MUSIC EVERY...

Friday 6-9pm

Saturday 3-6pm

Sunday 3-6pm

Memorial Day thru

Labor Day

HOME OF THE BARGE

On the water food boat

serving a great selection

of assorted sandwiches,

burgers and apps

Summer Floatie Parade!

BONEFISH BOUTIQUE

Check out our boutique

that features a large

selection of clothing,

jewelry, and much more

THE TIKI BAR

Enjoy a large selection of

ice cold beers and drinks

at the Bonefish Bar

Like us on Facebook for more information!

www.visitbluffcountry.com Caledonia, MN I 39

Caledonia offers visitors a unique blend of old-fashioned fun

and new creative adventures. Caledonia, with a population

of around 3,000 people, is Minnesota’s Wild Turkey Capital

and the heart of Quilt Country.

Begin your visit to Caledonia with one of the many seasonal

activities available. Caledonia’s motto is “A City for All Seasons”

– the Founder’s Day festival in June, the Houston County Fair in

August, the Caledonia Balloon Rally & Turkey Fest in October,

and the Winter Wonderland Celebration in December all celebrate

this.

Our 4-H fair is Minnesota’s largest rural county fair, complete

with a bandstand, farming exhibitions, and a midway.

Take the time to wind your way through some or all of the following

after a local shopping experience and a meal: our historic

downtown walking tour, the community swimming pool, biking,

GOLF GUIDE

nine holes of golf, a tour of Schech’s Mill, hiking, fishing, hunting,

and groomed snowmobile trails.

A trip to the new history museum/complex adjacent to the

Houston County Fairgrounds is like taking a “walk back in time.”

History Lane features the following historical structures: an old

schoolhouse, a pioneer cabin, a church, and a town hall.

Caledonia’s bed and breakfast, inn, and motels can accommodate

overnight visitors. We also have Beaver Creek Valley State

Park, which has both primitive and modern campsites.

Caledonia has beautiful bluffs and scenic vistas, and it is only 15

miles west of the Mississippi River.

Please contact the Caledonia Chamber of Commerce at (507)

725-5477 or visit caledoniachamberofcommerce.com for a current

calendar of events and a business directory.

A few interesting things that make Caledonia a special destination:

• Caledonia is the Houston County Seat.

• The Largest Pin Oak in Minnesota is located in the Evergreen

Cemetery.

• Birthplace of the Kunst brothers, known as the “Earthwalkers.”

• Historic district includes the Williams Hotel and the Sprague

Block, which are part of the Downtown Historic Walking Tour.

• Proclaimed the Wild Turkey Capital of Minnesota.

• Proclaimed the Heart of Quilt Country in 2008, with over 30

barns on the current self-guided barn quilt tours.

Golf Tour Map

On page

160

GOOD TIMES RESTAURANT & BAR

HOURS:

Mon-Fri Open at 11am

Sat & Sun Open at 2 pm

118 Bissen Street

Caledonia, MN 55921

507.725.3839

DAILY LUNCH &

DINNER SPECIALS

Full Service Restaurant and Bar • All Homemade Food

Patio Seating Available

CATERING ON AND OFF PREMISES.

(Banquet Room on lower level with full bar)

FAMOUS FOR OUR PIZZA

All Homemade Ingredients

EMAIL: GOODTIMESCALEDONIA@OUTLOOK.COM

WEBSITE: GTCALEDONIA.COM

BEST BURGERS AROUND

Sandwiches • Soup • Salad Bar

40 I Caledonia, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

104 History Lane • Caledonia, MN • 507-725-3884 • 507-896-2291 • 507-495-3265

hchs@acegroup.cc • houstoncountyhistoricalsociety.org

LOCATED BY HOUSTON COUNTY

FAIRGROUNDS, CALEDONIA.

Open year round!

Monday-Thursday 10am-4pm

Open other times by appointment.

Flatten-Swenson Log Home • Sheldon Presbyterian Church

Daley School • Agriculture Building • Mayville Town Hall

Other displays of Houston County in the new museum

OLD FASHIONED

CHRISTMAS

December 2 & 3, 2023

EITZEN

Christian Bunge, Jr. Store

(Restored Country Store in Eitzen, MN)

Open by appointment

Visit Our

Research Center

& Library!

The Christian Bunge, Jr. Store in Eitzen and The Church of the Holy Comforter,

Episcopal in Brownsville are both listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

BROWNSVILLE

The Church of the Holy

Comforter, Episcopal

(Church with original furnishings)

Open by appointment

Beautifully restored to its original country elegance, the Historic

Caledonia Inn offers two, two-room suites and two single rooms

135 East Main St. • Caledonia, Minnesota

507-724-1212 • caledoniainn.com

Pre-booking is required for all visits

Start a Family tradition of old Fashion

Memories at Betsy’s Bed & Breakfast

Betsy’s

Bed & BreakFaSt inn

Est. 1896

10672 Cty 249

Caledonia, Mn 55921

one of the original

stops on the Caledonia

Barn Quilt tour!

Call today to make

your reservation!

507-724-FarM (3276)

available for whole

house visits – 6 bedrooms

with private baths

www.betsysbedandbreakfast.com

The 300 acre Pieper Farm was established in 1896

and is currently being operated by David & Betsy,

along with their five children, the fifth and sixth

generations of the Pieper family!

CALEDONIA HOT AIR

BALLOON RALLY

Caledonia, MN

October 20-22, 2023

LAUNCHING AT

CALEDONIA HIGH SCHOOL

Launching

Fri., October 20

4:30pm

Sat., October 21

7:30am & 4:30pm

Sun., October 22

7:30am

FOLLOW US ON

FACEBOOK AT CALEDONIA

BALLOON RALLY

WEATHER PERMITTING

For more information contact Marian at 507-450-6160

www.visitbluffcountry.com Caledonia, MN I 41

Welcome to Caledonia

We Have What You Need!

Sponsored by Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce • 507-725-5477 • caledoniacoc@gmail.com • www.caledoniachamberofcommerce.com

Start a Family Tradition of Old Fashion Memories at

205 N. Kingston Street

Caledonia, MN 55921

Est. 1896

Betsy’s

Phone 507.725.3963

WWW.SLEEPYHOLLOWCHEVROLETCALEDONIA.COM

65

2023 2023 to 1958 WWW.CALEDONIAHAULERS.COM

135 East Main st. • CalEdonia, MinnEsota

507-724-1212 • CalEdoniainn.CoM

Bed & Breakfast

6 rooms available: queen size beds,

private baths; personalized breakfast.

David & Betsy Pieper Farm

Reservations - 507-724-FARM (3276)

10672 County 249 • Caledonia, MN 55921

Hours:

Mon.-Fri. 10am- 6pm

Saturday: 10 am-3pm

Sunday: Closed

Phone: 507-725-2708

14574 County 12 , Caledonia MN

FOUR SEASONS

Community Center

900 Kingston St, Caledonia • 507-725-4000

Wedding Central

We offer dance floor, dinnerware, liquor service, sound system,

licensed kitchen for the caterer of your choice, linen service &

stemmed glassware rental. Up to 400 guests!

• Email: 4seasons@acegroup.cc • Web: www.4seasonscc.com

Caledonia

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

KELLY MEYER, REALTOR ®

507.450.9395

105 S Kingston St., Caledonia, MN

E: kellymeyer@kw.com

W: www.kellymeyer.kw.com

Licensed in

MN, WI & IA

Caledonia

Veterinary

Clinic

Large and small animals

503 Old Hwy Drive, Caledonia, MN 55921 • 507-725-3380

www.caledoniavets.com • staff@caledoniavets.com

Caledonia True Value Hardware

All your hardware needs plus a little

bit of everything else

Mon-Fri 7:00 - 5:30 • Sat 7:00 - 5:00

Sunday 9:00 - 1:00

520 Old Hwy Drive • Caledonia, MN • 507-725-3986

Hunting & Fishing Supplies

Open 7 Days A week

6:30am-8pm

BREADS

PASTRIES

DOUGHNUTS

@caledoniabakery

124 E Main Street

@caledoniabakery_mn (507)725-3965

Full Service Grocery Store

510 Vista Dr., Caledonia, MN • 507-725-5276

Open 7 days a week 7am-8pm

24-hour pay at the pump gas

DANIELSON

INSURANCE AGENCY

Insurance is our

specialty - service is

our business

112 East Grove St.

Caledonia, MN 55921

(507) 725-3344

Tom Danielson - Agent

Providing care for individuals

with disabilities for over 40

years in Houston County.

The

www.able-inc.org

Trivia Night Every Other Friday!

(507) 725-8199 www.thewiredrooster.com

131 EAST MAIN ST, Downtown Caledonia

Breakfast, burgers, steak ,

shrimp, Pizza, & more.

Stop in and give us a try!

226 E Main St. • Caledonia, MN 55921

507-725-3313 • 507-725-3314

elsiescaledoniamn.com

Mary Ann's Floral & Gifts

308 East Main St, Caledonia, MN

507-725-2621 • maryannsfloral@outlook.com

Mon - Fri 9am-5:30pm, Sat 9am-2pm

• Fresh flowers

• Plants

• Memorials

• Gifts

- baby, kids,

wedding,

any occasion

• Home

Décor

• Willow Tree

Collectibles

• Kodak

Picture Kiosk

• So much

MORE than a

floral shop

42 I Caledonia, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

DINING HOURS

Mon-Tues Closed

Wed-Thurs 11am-8pm

Fri-Sat 11am-9pm

Sun 11am-8pm

5349 County 249,

Caledonia, MN

(507) 724-2156

DAILY SPECIALS

A small town supper

club famous for

broasted chicken,

Thursday night ribs,

Friday night fish fry, and

Saturday night prime

rib. Come see us!

Located on the banks of Crooked Creek

and nestled between the beautiful bluffs of

Freeburg, MN

Spring Grove, MN

There is always a reason to visit Spring Grove and even better

reasons to stay! Nestled in the southeastern corner of Minnesota’s

bluff country is the historic vibrant town of Spring Grove. We are

a small town surrounded by rolling fields and breathtaking views with

many amenities to offer.

Spring Grove has parks with playgrounds plus a birding trail complete

with signs describing what you might see along that part of the trail. If

you have a smart phone, you can even hear the birds’ call using a QR

code. The trail is accessible in all weather… in the spring as the trees are

budding, during the summer and the cool shading foliage, in the fall

with the beautiful golden leaves, or in the winter on snowshoes. There

is also a trail for the horseback enthusiast winding through the beautiful

woods and hills. During the summer, bring the whole family and enjoy

a day at our swim center. Pack your racquet and enjoy a tennis match or

pickleball game on the courts by the pool.

Stop in and enjoy shopping at our gift shops that have Norwegian

flair, home décor, boutique clothing and much more, including an

art gallery. Our grocery store has a full-service deli, extensive produce

department, plus a wide a variety of organic products. The hardware

store is sure to have anything you need from car parts and accessories, to

bird feeder supplies, home repair items, paint and more. Stop in at our

public library with high-speed Internet access plus we have fiber-optic

broadband throughout the city and outlying areas.

Enjoy our Farmers Market and Music in the Park Wednesday after-

507-498-ROCK (7625)

113 Maple Drive - Spring Grove, MN

Thursday - Saturday

4-10pm


www.visitbluffcountry.com Spring Grove, MN I 43

alwayS a ReaSon to ViSit,

eVen BetteR ReaSonS to Stay.

SPRINGGROVEMN.COM

Cheryl Patterson Photography

Cheryl Patterson Photography

springgroveareachamber@gmail.com

507-498-2022

Shop • Dine

play • Stay

44 I Spring Grove, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

SS

Seeking to honor God Who loved

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HIS Business is centered upon Scripture

plaques we craft from native hardwoods.

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507-498-3707

www.visitbluffcountry.com Spring Grove, MN I 45


noons from mid-May through late September. A wide variety of local

vendors join the market each week with homemade and home-grown

items. Each week there is also a food vendor and musical entertainment.

Each July our active community theater presents a musical “under the

stars.” They also have performances throughout the year.

We celebrate our town’s Norwegian heritage in May with our annual

festival, Syttende Mai. Come and enjoy this family-friendly event that

includes a grand parade and many other activities including a traditional

Norwegian meatball dinner. In October, we welcome autumn with our

UffDa Fest celebration. The weekend following Thanksgiving, Spring

Grove hosts the annual Festival of Trees. Our Fest Building is transformed

into a different winter wonderland theme each year with the

culminating event of the Holiday Gala and Auction on Saturday night,

with funds raised going to local charities.

Interested in tracing your family history? A stop in at our heritage

center is a must. Browse the gift shop, view murals on the walls by wellknown

Norwegian artists, and find out how you can trace your genetic

genealogy. Each summer they also host a Norwegian language camp.

Catch a movie at our cinema with stadium seating. Or work off some

energy at the 24/7 fitness center. Grab a drink at the distillery, the local

coffee house, the brew pub, or pop the top of a nice, cold bottle of Spring

Grove Soda Pop that has been made locally in small batches since 1895.

We have health and wellness services to offer from a clinic, to fitness

rehab, to massage, to chiropractic, to a yoga studio. There are also fullservice

hair salons including nail and facial services.

There are so many reasons to visit Spring Grove! We hope you’ll not

only come for a visit, but decide to stay!

Opening June 2023

Follow Spring Grove Swim Center

on Facebook for updates

46 I Mabel, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Stephanie Liddiard

Phone: 563-794-1033

I'm not just your

realtor, I am also

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Licensed in Minnesota and Iowa

Serving SE Minnesota and NE Iowa

The Historic Barn In Mabel

For Summer

Barn Rental

Call 507-493-5801

Property of the Hesper-Mabel Area Historical Society

Mabel is snuggled in the southeast corner of Fillmore

County, just 20 miles north of Decorah,

Iowa.

Frank Adams was the chief construction engineer of

the Narrow Gauge Railroad Line that built the first

railroad through Mabel. Adams platted the Village of

Mabel in the fall of 1879, naming it Mabel in honor of

his young daughter.

Mabel is home to two lovely parks. Steam Engine Park

is located on the south edge of Mabel and Memorial

Park is found on West Prairie Ave. The parks are open

to the public and provide picnic shelters for family gettogethers,

playground equipment, and one of the best ball

Convenience & Service all through the Root River Valley

Mabel bp Food Shop

• Hot Foods & Deli

• Convenience Store

• Lottery Tickets

• Pay-At-Pump 24/7

• Diesel Fuel

• LP Exchange

Hunting/fishing license &

Game registration

Highway 44 & Locust, Mabel

(507) 493-5924


Locally

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by S&A

Petroleum

MABEL

Home of the Steam Engine that went to the Mardi-Gras in New Orleans

For more info visit Mabel’s website www.cityofmabel.com City offices: 507-493-5299

MABEL-CANTON COMMUNITY NIGHT OUT

Tuesday, August 1, 2023

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201 Main St. S • Mabel, Minn. • www.cityofmabel.com

Call 507-493-5299 to book your event today!

From a small shower to a reunion, an employee

meeting to a large wedding reception, the Mabel

Area Community Center is your answer!

www.visitbluffcountry.com Mabel, MN I 47

71 ST

HESPER-MABEL

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Business Association

Community Night Out

• Hesper-Mabel Steam Engine

Days • Golden Age Dinner

• Preschool Trick-or-Treating at

Businesses • Santa Day

• Citywide Garage Sales

Mabel Business Association

Retail Outlet

Natural pain relief for joint and muscle

pain resulting from arthritis or injuries.

203 N Main St., Mabel MN

877-210-9664

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• Clothing: Tingley, Red Wing Work Shoes, Gloves,

Carhartt Clothing, Sweatshirts, Socks

• Misc. Hardware, Garden Supplies, Toys and much more!

SWAP A TANK 20lb & 30lb cylinders

11748 State Hwy 43 • MABEL, MN

507-493-5217

Hrs: M-F 7:30am-6pm

Sat. 7:30am-5pm

Available Year Round

Fairy Blue

Take out Café & Gift Shop

Bakery Treats • Egg Bake • Soups • Wraps

Unique Barn Quilts

Handcrafted Gifts • Soaps • Candles

www.fairybluemabel.com

Check our website or facebook page for hours and menu

Hours vary - Email to confirm if open

debbiescorner102@gmail.com

507-493-5651 • 102 S Main, Mabel

48 I Mabel, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country


diamonds in the area is found at Steam Engine Park.

One of the biggest events in the area is Hesper-Mabel

Steam Engine Days. The annual celebration is held in

the park the first weekend after Labor Day. It features

threshing machines powered by steam engines, two

gigantic parades that start with old steam engines sounding

their whistles down Main Street, arts and crafts, an

antique show, and more. On Saturday night there is a

tractor pull for the “big” kids. The weekend winds down

with drawings held by various community organizations,

with the grand prize being a new vehicle.

Mabel’s business community includes a bank, farm

store, thrift store, hardware store, medical clinic, flower

and gifts store, antique shop, a hotel, restaurants and a

number of other various businesses.

The Mabel Community Center gives individuals, families

and businesses a warm and inviting venue to meet

and socialize. The facility is fully accessible and provides

ample space for events such as wedding receptions, family

gatherings, holiday parties, bridal and baby showers,

reunions, auctions, meetings, and more.

A stop at the remodeled Historic Mabel House Hotel is

a must; it was built in 1879 and has been serving guests

ever since.

Would you like to

share your photos ?

And, get PAID?

We are looking for photos of people, places and

things that represent the scenic, historic or natural

beauty of this region, and we want your help.

PICTURE PERFECT

Send your high resolution photos to

info@visitbluffcountry.com with a short

explanation of WHERE the photo was taken

and WHAT MONTH is was taken. No black

and white photos, no alterations, no sepia

tones, and no faces of people. If your photo

is selected for use, we will send you a $25

gift card from a business that is advertising.

In addition, your name will be included as a

photo credit accompanying your photo(s).

Any questions, call us at 507-765-2151

Beaver Creek Valley State Park

Nestled in the blufflands of southeastern Minnesota, Beaver Creek

Valley State Park is known for its clear streams fed by the “Big Spring.” Its

streams are home to brown and native brook trout. In spring, wildflowers

that blanket the woodland hills and valleys attract migratory songbirds like

the rare Acadian flycatcher, Cerulean warbler, and Louisiana waterthrush.

A hiking trail meanders along the

stream and up into a maple-basswood

and oak forest. Campers are lulled to

sleep by the murmuring stream.

Wildlife

The great diversity of plant species

contributes to a great diversity of wildlife.

Deer, raccoon, muskrat, mink,

badger, red and gray fox, an occasional

beaver, and wild turkey may be spotted

in the park. If you encounter one, please

leave it alone; they present little threat

to the visitor. Birdwatchers flock to the

park to see the treasured Acadian flycatcher

and the Louisiana waterthrush.

History

Historically, the area attracted European settlers because of rich agricultural

soils, hardwoods and the many streams that made milling possible.

Archaeological surveys indicate that the valley was once an Indian village

site.

Geology

The park is situated in one of the most interesting geologic areas in

Minnesota, the “driftless area.” The area covers 10,000 square miles in

adjoining parts of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Illinois, which were

untouched by the most recent glacial advances. However, as the glaciers

receded, torrents of meltwater poured

into streams and rivers, carving deep

rugged valleys.

Landscape

It is a nature lover’s paradise

because of the diversity of natural

communities. Bottomland hardwoods

such as black ash, willow, box elder,

cottonwood, and elm grow in the

valley while a mix of maple, walnut,

basswood and oak thrive above the

valley. Small patches of native prairie

and oak savanna occupy some of the

south and west-facing slopes in the

park.

Getting There

From I-90, take State Highway 76 south for 24 miles, then take Houston

County 1 west for 4 miles.

www.visitbluffcountry.com Houston, MN I 49

Amid the valleys in Bluff Country lies Houston, the

eastern trailhead of the Root River State Trail. Whether

biking, in-line skating, or cross-country skiing on the

trail, or canoeing, tubing, or swimming in the river, the area is

teeming with adventure.

Houston is also home to the International Owl Center,

featuring live owls and educational programming. Held the

first full weekend of March each year is

the International Festival of Owls, an

impressive celebration that includes live

owl presentations, birding trips, contests,

activities, and classes.

At Trailhead Park, a wetland and levee

planted in nature grasses and flowers invites

visitors to explore the beauty of nature. The

park also offers a picnic shelter, primitive

campsites, public restrooms and showers,

a band shell, and a creative and inspiring

playground featuring a sand play area with

buried fossils, hand water pump and log

sluice, and stone tunnels and caves. The

park is also home to the Houston Nature

Center, where you’ll find a wide array of nature exhibits and

educational programming for all ages.

Houston boasts two ball fields, a public archery range, and

full 18-hole courses surrounded by scenic bluffs.

The Oak Ridge/Wet Bark DNR Recreation Area encompasses

miles of hiking and horseback riding trails, mountain

biking trails, and camping. Trails transform in winter for crosscountry

skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.

Just south of town, you can take in a stone church built in

1855 by natural stone quarried off nearby hills. Further down

Highway 76, visitors can marvel at Schech’s Mill, a working

three-story mill of native stone, built in 1876. It is the only

original water-powered mill in Minnesota and still boasts original

equipment.

North of town, visitors can tour two impressive

big game farms by appointment; an elk

farm and the ranch home of Cody the Buffalo

II, where visitors can purchase bison, Scottish

Highlander, and wild boar meat, and one-of-akind

collectibles. Houston boasts several other

distinctive shops, including a beautiful wheelthrown

and hand-created functional stoneware

and porcelain pottery shop.

Houston hosts several festivals: the Root River

Triathlon, two Southeast Minnesota Bluegrass

Association Festivals, the Apollo Music Festival,

outdoor summer concerts, and on the last

full weekend of July, Houston Hoedown Days

transforms the town into a celebration filled

with trail rides, tractor pulls, the Minnesota State Horse Pull,

nightly dances, and more!

Dining opportunities include a charming coffee house, pizza

and ice cream, a bar and grill, and a food co-op.

Staying in Houston? Lodging is available, ranging from spirited

and western to scenic and secluded to a more traditional

inn.

HOUSTON, MN

Eat. Stay. Play.

Houston Holidazzle

Loken's Sawmill Inn

Root River Market

Trailhead Park

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Natural Playground

50 I Houston, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Coffee & Espresso

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• Lottery Tickets


• Diesel Fuel

• LP Exchange


Game registration

on Highway 16 East, Houston

(507) 896-3000

Locally

owned

and

operated

by S&A

Petroleum

113 W Cedar Street

Houston, MN

Thurs. & Fri. 10-5

Saturday 10-3

www.visitbluffcountry.com Houston, MN I 51

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Visit Bluff Country

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The Root River

The Root River maintains timelessness as it represents the fine scenic

and historic qualities which are characteristic of southeastern Minnesota.

The Root River has gentle to moderate flow with a few riffles. The water

level varies substantially with rainfall. The river offers wonderful opportunities

for family day trips, and towns along the river offer historical

sights, services, and hospitality. Those who are more adventurous can

take advantage of the canoe campsites for overnight trips.

Water characteristics - The water flow on the Root River ranges

from gentle to moderate. From Chatfield to the Mississippi River the

river falls 310 feet for an average drop of 3.4 feet per mile. River levels

peak in mid-March and once again in June. Though the watershed has

many spring-fed clear water tributaries including the South Branch, the

Root River is somewhat cloudy due to erosive soil types in the watershed.

Landscape - Formed of two branches in the west, the North and

Middle, the Root River winds past towering bluffs topped with oak

and hickory. Joined above the town of Whalan by the South Branch,

a tributary which flows from Mystery Cave, the river continues its way

past bluffs and outcrops until Rushford. There the river straightens as

the valley broadens considerably. The scenery then settles into a gentle

plain of pastureland and mixed cottonwood and maple with wooded

rolling hills visible in the distance.

Fish and wildlife - There are many species of fish inhabiting the river

including smallmouth bass, channel catfish, rock bass, sunfish, crappies,

and rough fish. Most of these can be found in the active stretches

of pooled areas of the river. Brown trout can be found in the clearer

and colder spring-fed streams, as well as the western end of the South

Branch. All anglers fishing in the designated trout waters are required

to have a current trout stamp. The Root River supports over 40 species

of birds. It is quite common to see blue herons, egrets, and wood

ducks moving about the river’s edge. Raptors in the area include redtailed

hawks, osprey, turkey vultures, and bald eagles. Wooded shores

harbor mammals such as deer, gray fox, red fox, coyotes, raccoons,

woodchucks, squirrels, weasels, and badgers. River otters and beaver

can be found in the water. Lizards such as the skink, racerunner, and

many species of snakes, including the timber rattlesnake, can be found

along the banks and outcrops.

Cultural Information - This area served as a gateway for cultures

moving north. The “Mississippian Tradition,” a striking example of

cultural development, moved northward about A.D. 900 to 1000.

They farmed the fertile bottom land and built terraces above the rivers.

In the 1640s, with the onset of European exploration, France claimed

this part of the “New World.” The newly formed United States, in

turn, bought it from France as part of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803.

The native Dakota Indians continued to inhabit the land until the

1852 Treaty of Traverse de Sioux forced their removal, thus opening

the door for further expansion. Soon hardwood stands were cleared

and fields were cultivated. Development of water resources and poor

land management led to a negative impact on the area’s environment.

Catastrophic erosion gradually led the people of southeastern Minnesota

to initiate wiser use of the land. Eventually the state established

what is now known as the Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest

to restore and prescribe sound multi-use land practices.

52 I Rushford Village, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

The Town of Rushford was established in 1854. In 1869, the

City of Rushford was formed as a separate area, removed from

JEFF BROGLE

the Town. Later, the Town of Rushford was incorporated into a

Village by a vote of the inhabitants, as provided for by a state law passed

507.577.1121

in March 1885. The Village of Rushford, surrounding Peterson and

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The City of

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Rushford Village

has an area of

33.64 square miles

nestled in the

Root River Valley

between stunning

bluffs and state forest land. The Historic Bluff Country National

Scenic Byway, State Highway 16, runs through Rushford Village, much

of it near the Root River State Bike Trail and along the Root River,

which is used extensively for fishing, tubing and canoeing, with several

launch sites. Area snowmobile trails are popular in winter.

Rushford Village is a blend of agriculture, small manufacturing, and

small businesses. Community center and shelter rentals are available, as

well as camping facilities.

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www.visitbluffcountry.com Rushford, MN I 53

Rushford, rooted in a convergence of valleys etched provides an array of rare plants and animals. Among

along the Root River and Rush Creek waters, the restored oak savanna is native prairie that is home

protected by towering bluffs, is an outdoor mecca. to at least 13 unique species of flora, untold numbers of

The landscape, sacred to indigenous Native American birds, and record whitetail deer. With recently improved

tribes, was recognized by early settlers for its life-sustaining

splendor. The Southern Minnesota Railroad fueled back riding, and mountain biking, cross-country skiing,

access, the area is primed for photography, hiking, horse-

the growth and progress of the city, forming an essential and snowshoeing. Ferndale Ridge, off the Historic Bluff

link to the area. A Legacy award recipient for its efforts Country Scenic Byway, is a local wildlife management

to continue the historical and cultural heritage, the city area with abundant deer, turkey, pheasant, and small

is a bustling center for outdoor enthusiasts, history aficionados,

families, and those looking for tranquility amid The city’s crown jewel is Magelssen Bluff Park, soaring

game.

awe-inspiring natural wonders.

above the valley floor and bearing the city name in stone

Running through the heart of town, the Root River anchored on its south slope. Featuring prominent limestone

outcroppings and three scenic overlooks, the bluff

is one of the top 10 trout waters in Minnesota. Restored

and protected by The Conservancy, the river and the offers an open panorama of the area in several miles.

cold-water streams that feed it are known for exceptional The winding road traversing the hillside to the summit

brown, rainbow, and native brook trout, smallmouth and invites visitors to tour the recently developed hiking

rock bass, sunfish, crappie, and channel catfish offerings. trails, several picnic areas, long-standing apple trees, and

Rushford also offers fishing in the Rush Creek tributary, the Rushford Burr Oak tree. The massive, stout-limbed

a designated stream of the meandering coulee, which tree is estimated to be over 200 years old and is one of the

flows through the city and merges with the Root. Up to largest trees in Minnesota.

300 participants of all ages flock to the river’s edge on Visitors can also enjoy the Root River State Trail, a

a Saturday in April for the annual Lipmasters Fishing 60-mile paved trail, ranked among the best trail systems

Tournament. A shotgun start signals the anglers to start in Minnesota. At Rushford’s trailhead, the 1867 Southern

Minnesota Railway Depot, now a museum, visitor

reeling in the redhorse, white sucker, and carp running

in the Root River, and prizes are given in adult and kids center, and seat of the Rushford Area Historical Society,

divisions.

beckons you to step into the past. The Hanson cabin,

Off the beaten path, the Rushford Sand Barrens, part under restoration, 1890 Grinde Schoolhouse, 1867 Epis-

of the Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest,


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54 I Rushford, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Visit the

VALLEY

Rushford Peterson Valley, a hidden gem in Southeast Minnesota’s

Driftless Area, with space to breathe and explore

SCHEDULE

OF EVENTS

APRIL Bluff Country Studio Art Tour

MAY

SEMBA Bluegrass Festival

JUNE Gammel Dag Fest, Peterson

JULY

JULY

AUG

AUG

AUG

OCT

Rushford Days

Sunday Music Series,

Peterson Bandstand

Bluff Land Triathlon

Rushford Music Series

SEMBA Bluegrass Festival

Arts & Crafts Fair

DEC Christmas in Peterson

Find us online for a full list of

activies and events

www.rushfordpetersonvalley.com

THINGS TO DO

• Root River Bike Trail: 60 miles of paved trail

• Bluff Country Scenic Byway

• Root River fi shing, tubing and canoeing

PLACES TO SHOP

• From basic necessities to products unique

to the Rushford Peterson Valley

PLAN YOUR

DAY TRIP!

PLACES TO STAY

• Lodging at inns,

campgrounds,

vacation rentals

PLACES TO EAT

• Many local favorites

Find day trip itinerary ideas on our website



copal Chapel, and 1913 Jail House complete the attractive

grounds. Joining the state trail, east of the former

railway bridge crossing is the Rush Creek Trail that will

take you to Creekside Park.

The park is the pride of the city, featuring the Veteran’s

Memorial, paved walking trails, three pavilions,

a gazebo, tennis courts, basketball court, and skating

rink and warming house in the winter. In its center is

the custom and community-built playground structure,

designed by renowned New York firm, Leathers and

Associates, emulating the surrounding landscape and

able to captivate the interest of children and adults. It

is adjacent to the modern Ben Niggle Sports Complex,

owned by Rushford-Peterson Schools, which boasts a

state-of-the-art running track and several ball fields.

Visitors can follow Rush Creek Trail to either the city’s

Northend Campground or continue on, looping back to

the Magelssen Bluff Hiking Trails.

A stone’s throw from the latter, visitors will see the

1875 Hoiland Mill - representing the days of Minnesota’s

wheat and flour production. Other historic sites in town

include the 1870 Hanson Hardware Store, 1872 Rushford

Wagon and Carriage Company, and 1859 Walker

& 1861 Valentine House, part of the Minnesota Pioneer

House Project. The 1922 brick Tew Memorial Library is

home to city hall and public library.

A full-service community, Rushford maintains many


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Mon-Fri Mon-Sat 7-47am-2pm • Sat 7-2 • Closed Sunday

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507-864-2878

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Open 7am-9pm daily

56 I Rushford, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

105 State Road 16, Rushford • 507-864-7949

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Providing you great Values,

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Outdoor Sporting

Goods & Supplies

• RED WING Boots

• Tube Sales

• Fishing

• RV Camping Supply

ComplETE

Garden Center

Friendly

Service

• Weber Grills

• Grilling supplies

• Char-Broil Grills

• Traeger Grills

• RV and automotive

supplies

• Bird Feeders

• pet Foods

Rushford Hardware

m-F 7-7, SaT 8-5, SuN 10-3 | 402 S. mIll STREET, RuShFoRD, mN

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recreational possibilities. Take a dip at the Rushford

Aquatic Center or golf a round – the challenging and scenic

9-hole course just east of town features 6,648 yards

from the longest tees for a par of 36, for a course rating

of 71.4. Bowl a few frames or delight in the ultimate healing

and relaxation of massage or infrared saunas, both in

town.

Citywide festivals throughout the year include Rushford

Days, a week-long celebration the third week of July,

and Taste of the Trail, the third Saturday after Labor Day

in September. With all there is to do, you’re bound to

work up quite an appetite. Luckily, there’s no shortage of

superb dining destinations Rushford. Unique to the area,

a lefse factory noted in Food Network’s compilation of

Great Food Gifts from 50 States offers an opportunity to

view a handful of workers transform the potato dough to

Norse delight, then enjoy the fresh-made lefse in addition

to offering a number of other Scandinavian goodies and

gifts, as well as offering a full menu in their café.

When it’s time to rest, check in at our motel, inn, or

campgrounds.




Camping a 'site' better!

• Full hookups available

• Permanents available

• Located on the Root River Bike Trail

• Walking distance from downtown

restaurants and shopping

• Two blocks from Root River access

• Adjacent to Highway 16 access

CAMPGROUND OFFICE

507.450.7195 | bluffviewcampground.com


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11-9 Friday - Saturday

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507.864.7214 | rushfordcreamery.com

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507.864.7799 | rushfordnordiclanes.com

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open 10a weekends, 11a weekdays

havin' a good time at the lanes!

58 I MN Area Map & Scenic Byway A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Scenic Byways in Bluff Country

The National Scenic Byways Program is part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration. The

program is a grass-roots collaborative effort established to help recognize, preserve and enhance selected roads throughout the

United States. Since 1992, the National Scenic Byways Program has provided funding for almost 1,500 state and nationally designated

byway projects in 48 states. The U.S. Secretary of Transportation recognizes certain roads as All-American Roads or National

Scenic Byways based on one or more archeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational and scenic qualities.

Historic Bluff Country • National Scenic Byway

88-mile route on Minnesota Hwy 16 between Dexter and La Crescent

The Historic Bluff Country Scenic Byway links together

some of the most scenic, historic, cultural, natural and recreational

resources in the area. Traveling through small towns

and quaint communities along the byway, visitors find attractions

that include restaurants, art galleries, theaters, antique

shops, museums, historic homes and sites, state parks, lodging,

canoeing, kayaking, hiking, biking, cross country skiing, golfing,

horseback riding, and trout fishing. The Root River offers

water recreation while the Root River & the Harmony-Preston

Valley State Bicycle Trails offer miles of variety for users.

Shooting Star Scenic Byway

32-mile drive along Hwy 56 between Hwy 63 at Chester, Iowa and I-90

This byway is one of the state’s first designated wildflower

routes. The Minnesota DOT and Natural Resources

manage wildflowers and native grasses along the route,

which passes through rich agricultural regions and small

towns with historic buildings, B&Bs, golf courses, swimming

pools and city parks. Lake Louise State Park is

located on this route.

Laura Ingalls Wilder

Historic Highway

From Rochester south on US 63 to Spring Valley,

follow MN 16 & US 52 to the Iowa border to Burr Oak

Travel the scenic route that Laura wrote

about in the Little House series. Almanzo

and Laura Ingalls Wilder attended the 1876

church in Spring Valley 1890-1891. See

the Wilder photo display, old-time Country

Store, and pioneer artifacts. Visit the Masters

Hotel in Burr Oak, Iowa, where Charles

Ingalls and his family lived and worked in

1876. This is “the missing link” between

the times they lived in Walnut Grove.

Apple Blossom Scenic Byway

1.5 mi S of I-90 to Main St in La Crescent.

W to Elm St., follow Cty Hwy 29

One of the most beautiful scenic overlooks

in Minnesota, this 17-mile driving

route follows County Hwy 29. Accessible

from the towns of La Crescent, Dakota and

Nodine, this loop provides great views from

bluff tops along the Mississippi River Valley

in SE Minnesota.

Amish Byway

Along Hwy 52 between Hwy 16,

Preston and Hwy 44 at Prosper

The growing Amish community is concentrated

in the area around Canton and

Harmony and they are frequent users of

Hwy 52 between Preston and Prosper.

Most of the Amish farmsteads are on

country roads. Drive carefully and please,

take no photographs of the buggies that

would include Amish faces. (Amish do not

like photographs taken of their faces.)

For more information on Scenic Byways

visit www.byways.org

Olmsted Co.

Rushford 16

7

Village

16

43

Wetbark

Houston

25

Bratsberg

halan

10 13

10

Trevino

Nelson

o

10 76

61

4

15

Maple Springs

Brownsville

Schech’s

35

Sheldon

Mill

Reads Landing

Highland

Yucatan

11

13

44

10

61

3 Tell

Choice

0

11

4

Beaver Creek

• Wabasha

1

60

Caledonia

60State Park

Black

Amherst

249 Freeburg

Hammer

Alma

4

12

Reno

18 West 19Albany

• Kellogg

35

43

8 Spring 4

61

Reno Trail

Lenora

60

Grove

18 42

24

14

Newburg

23

17 28

27

76

4

Millville

Newhouse

16

27 Wilmington

Buffalo City

44

4

Hammond

27

Weaver

Mabel 8

26

Eitzen

52

4

74

South

Iowa

Fork

Burr

Oak

River

North Winn Rd

Root

River

Fillmore Co.

Houston Co.

247

Trail

Hokah 26

Pepin

35

www.visitbluffcountry.com 4

18

MN Area Map & Scenic Byway I 59

Viola

42

42

• Elgin

• Plainview

74

Winnebago Creek

• Elba

RootRiver

• Altura

248

61

Mississippi

River

35

• Minneiska

35

Rollingstone

Cream

88

88

61

Waumandee

35

95

Goodview

Glencoe

To Wabasha

61

• Winona

93

95 95

• Arcadia

35

Tamarack

93

Centerville

93

35

53

Galesville

PRINGS

E PARK

9

To

ch

wartville

ine

1

56

Root River

30

2

Hamilton

Rochester

1

4

1

8

16

Valley 63 8

nder

y

Twin

26

endricks

Springs

Rd

63

Pleasant Grove

14

63

4

14

Decorah

38

Etna

44

Marion

8

Fillmore

Wykoff

12

16

Chester

101

Mystery

Cave

52

102

5

5

80 5

Cherry

Grove

5

5

Iowa

Lime Springs

90

2

30

10

Chatfield

7 52

8

Fountain

80

Forestville

State

Park 118

Historic

Forestville

14

9

Eyota

11

Greenleafton

Granger

9

Preston

14 17

15

Cresco

Dover

14

To

Altura

30

11

22

74

6

17

22

St. Charles

33

Saratoga

Troy

8

Harmony

Niagara Cave

Kendalville

Middle

52

6

Branch Root

12

River

Lanesboro

21

21

Canton

30

29

Fremont

25

30

Pilot Mound Arendahl

25

21 250

Peterson

16

139

Henrytown

115

Utica

To

Kendallville

and Cresco

23

Upper

Bethany

25

Whalan

10

South

14

Fork

90

Winona Co.

Highland

Root

Rushford

Village

43

Bratsberg

10

Choice

13

River

43

Hart

16

13

To Winona

43

Money Creek

Rushford 26

26

10

Fillmore Co.

Houston Co.

Wetbark

Trail

76

76

90

15

Schech’s

Sheldon

Mill

Yucatan

11

11

10

4

Beaver Creek

1

Houston

State Park

Black

Amherst

Hammer

4

12

18 19

43

8 Spring

Lenora

Grove

24

Newburg

23

17 28

27

76

4

Newhouse

16

27 Wilmington

44

27

Mabel 8

52

4

Burr

Oak

Iowa

River

North Winn Rd

4

10

26

Ridgeway

21

13 11

9

Pickwick

103

44

14

G.R. 61

Bluffs

Dakota

12

12 90

Nodine

1

New Hartford

5

Pine 6

Creek

25 La Crescent

Mound Prairie

16

Caledonia

249

14

Eitzen

Hokah

Winnebago Creek

RootRiver

18

Brownsville

3

7

26

Freeburg

Reno

Reno Trail

26

90

LaCrosse

Mississippi

River

35

Twin

TWIN SPRINGS

STATE PARK

9

Springs

Rd

Decorah

60 I Peterson, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Crossing the bridge from the byway, the quaint town opens up

before you, tree-lined and like days gone by. The town has a rich

history, including as the former site of the Chicago, Milwaukee,

and St. Paul Railroad Depot, built in 1877. It has since been restored and

converted to the Peterson Station Museum & Tourist Center. Inside, visitors

will discover an amazing collection of local memorabilia and a comprehensive

Norwegian genealogy center. A 2022 addition commemorates

Peterson School District (232) prior to consolidation in 1990. The Visitor

Center also loans bicycles to residents and visitors.

To help you enjoy the Root River, you may rent canoes, tubes, and

kayaks while visiting this lovely small town sandwiched between the Root

River and the 60-mile paved Root River Bike Trail.

During June’s Gammel Dag celebration, the town offers everyone

the chance to be Norwegian for a day. The Saturday after Father’s Day,

Norwegian artisans demonstrate their talents, as visitors enjoy folk dancing

and authentic Scandinavian food, storytelling, music, and a grand

parade. New activities have been added such as a dunk tank, bonfire, and

minnow races. Welcoming the holiday season, Christmas in Peterson, a

festival of seasonal displays, art, music, and food, is held the second Saturday

of December.

The town’s city park is home to a restored bandstand that hosts a

summer concert series. Down the street, another park rests atop a sloping

hillside and offers a softball field, playground, horseshoe, pavilion, and

the first section of the new Barefoot Trail. In the heart of downtown,

Veterans Park is less than a block from the trail, tucked in a grassy setting

along with east side of the former 1875 and 1901 historic Quickstad Farm

Implement Company buildings. Down the block, visitors will find turned

pens, bowls, and unique items for sewing and sewing machines.

Visit and enjoy our Veterans Memorial Park Park just off just the off

the Root Root River River Bike Bike Trail. Trail. Pool and Pool darts, and pull darts, tabs, pull e-tabs, tabs,

pizza and pizza hot sandwiches plus your plus favorite your favorite cold beverages.

cold beverages.

destination

Boutique Station

..for fashion as unique as you are...

TRENDY • CHIC • STYLISH • FASHIONABLE

THE BOUTIQUE STATION

41178 Highway 16, Peterson, MN

507-875-2693

www.boutiquestation.net

Mon-Fri 10-6 • Sat 10-5 • Sun 12-5

Call for private event!

Featuring women's clothing

sizes Small-3X, including:

JEANS • ACCESSORIES

BAGS • SHOES

LOCALLY-MADE JEWELRY

www.visitbluffcountry.com Choose Your Adventure I 61

FOOD & DRINK RECREATION RETAIL LODGING

WE ARE GIVING AWAY

$1,200 in gift cards

IN 2023!

12 winners will receive $100 each in gift cards from local

businesses appearing in this magazine. Random drawings will

be held from May to October of 2023.

The 12 drawing winners will be able to select a

$25 gift card from four tourism categories!

Winners will be announced on our website!

ENTER TO WIN AT WWW.VISITBLUFFCOUNTRY.COM/ADVENTURE

62 I The Art of Visiting Bluff Country A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

The art of visiting Bluff Country

By Charlene Corson Selbee

One-of-a-kind art studios and galleries call the picturesque

landscape of Bluff Country home. Visitors will experience

not only first-class art galleries, but they will have

the opportunity to meet talented artists and

purchase their creations.

The range

of artwork found

in Bluff County

ranges from jewelry,

clothing, oil

and watercolor

paintings, black

and white drawings,

wood furniture,

fiber arts,

sculptures, and

glass to name a

few.

Residents

and visitors

alike look

forward to the

Artwork by 18-year-old Yoonjeong

(Gina) Yang of the USA hanging in the

gallery at the International Owl Center in

Houston, Minn.

Photo courtesy of International Owl Center

Bluff Country Studio Art Tour held every year in April.

The dates for this year’s tour are April 28-30. The tour is

an opportunity for art enthusiasts to visit the artist’s studio

and experience firsthand where they spend their

time creating. In 2023, there are 20 stops to

visit. Download a mobile app from the

tour’s website for ease in finding all the

studios and suggested food, lodging,

and refreshment stops along the

trail. To stop at each location,

it will take at least two full

days. Pottery, jewelry, wood

furniture, oil paintings, baskets,

watercolors, and fiber

arts can all be found on

the trail.

Lanesboro Arts

Galleries proudly

boasts not one but

two galleries, Exhibition

Gallery and the

Juried Sales Gallery!


ONE-OF-A-KIND

Art studios & galleries

www.visitbluffcountry.com The Art of Visiting Bluff Country I 63


The Exhibition Gallery features five exhibits annually. The

Juried Sales Gallery features work from over 90 regional

artists and is available for purchase. Every other year, Lanesboro

Arts sponsors an emerging artist exhibition.

Bluff Country’s newest art gallery, The Caledonia Gallery,

is located in a recently renovated limestone building

in downtown Caledonia. The 150-plus year old building

was built by James J. Belden, after the Civil War ended

in 1865, for his tinsmith business. Throughout

the years the building has been home to a drug

store, newspaper office, a real estate and insurance

agency, insurance/financial service office,

a jewelry store, and second-hand stores.

The renovation itself is a work

of ark. The gallery features the

work of artists from La Crosse,

Wis., to Caledonia with over

half being women artists.

Visitors will find an amazing

collection of wildlife,

landscape, flowers, and

portrait paintings.

Children from

around the world

have entered artwork

featuring owls in

The International Owl

Center in Houston sponsors

an annual kids’ owl art competition.

The coloring contest

started around 2004 to

engage local children in

the Center’s Festival of

Owls celebration. Over

the years it has grown

into a competitive

international art

competition. In

2023 there were

2,007 entries

from 34 countries

and 20 U.S.

states. Artwork

from the competition is exhibited

throughout the year in the center’s gallery. Artwork has also

been used to decorate banners that can be seen hanging on

light poles throughout town. The children’s artwork can

also be found on merchandise which can be purchased in

the center’s gift shop along with other owl themed merchandise.

Enjoy the drive though the picturesque farmlands, the

majestic bluffs, along the flowing streams, and through

quaint midwestern towns that inspire the artists of Bluff

Country.

The $1,000 chandelier purchased for

$500 was transported from the twin

Cities to The Caledonia Gallery at 40

mph.

Photo by Charlene Corson Selbee

64 I Lanesboro, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Four Seasons

in Lanesboro

SPRING

INTL FESTIVAL OF OWLS

GET SQUIRRELY WITH SURLY

JUN 3

SUMMER

RHUBARB FESTIVAL

Lanesboro, Minnesota,

is the perfect place to start

exploring and enjoying

southeastern Minnesota’s

breathtaking Bluff Country.

Located just two hours from

the Twin Cities, three hours

from Madison, WI, and 3.5

hours from Des Moines, IA,

this unique town is also the

perfect destination for your

2023 Spring, Summer, Fall or

Winter Getaway!

For more information

go to: lacc.mn/events

BLUFF COUNTRY STUDIO ART TOUR

LANESBORO FARMERS’ MARKET

MAY 13 BOUTIQUE & BUSINESS CRAWL

BLUFF COUNTRY GATHERING

JUN 17 ART IN THE PARK

JUN 19 FILLMORE CTY CATTLEMEN’S STEAK FRY

GIRL FASTPITCH SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT

FILLMORE COUNTY FAIR

BUFFALO BILL DAYS

MAY 29 MEMORIAL DAY PROGRAM

STRINGWOOD CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL

FALL

AREA ART TRAIL

SEP 13 LANESBORO WELCOMING WEEK

SEP 23 BOUTIQUE & BUSINESS CRAWL

SEP 23 FALL BEER AND WINE FEST

OCT 7 FALL INTO LANESBORO

OCT 14 THE FILTHY 50

OCT 31 DOWNTOWN TRICK OR TREATING

NOV 25

DEC 2

WINTER

EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF LANESBORO

HOLIDAY DINNER DANCE

DEC 31 NEW YEAR’S EVE IN LANESBORO

LOVEBIRDS IN LANESBORO

CABIN FEVER FEST

Due to ongoing precautionary measures, dates/hours are

subject to change. Please contact individual business or

check online for most accurate information

BLUFF COUNTRY | LANESBORO, MN

www.visitbluffcountry.com Lanesboro, MN I 65

Tucked along the banks of the Root River in Southeast Minnesota,

you’ll find a hidden gem – Historic Lanesboro, the

Heart of Bluff Country. Take a relaxing drive on Highway

16, a National Scenic Byway, turn north on Highway 250, and you’ve

arrived at the main street of Lanesboro, population 715. Park your

car in the Poetry Parking Lot and walk into town over a restored

railroad bridge, the Coffee Street Walking Bridge. The parking lot is

by the bass pond, which is fully-stocked by

the local DNR fish hatcheries,.

Strolling down Lanesboro’s main street,

Parkway Avenue, is like a walk through

time. Well preserved, it’s a snapshot of

what rural America looked like over a

century ago. Architecture gracefully combines

the old and new. Buildings built

just a few years ago are neighbors with

buildings over 100 years old. Lanesboro’s

downtown is a noted landmark on the

National Register of Historic Places.

This town is alive with the arts, good

food, history and easy access to the

outdoor. The surrounding bluffs and winding river create a

tranquil beauty that rivals any destination. In fact, you may even see

a History Alive! Pop-up play – reenactments of Lanesboro history - or

learn a bit more about Lanesboro through the historic walking tour.

You just never know what you’ll see in town.

At the north end of town, the Commonweal Theatre is home to a

professional theatre company, which, from March through December,

entertains thousands of people every year with a rotating repertory

of comedies, dramas, musicals, classics and contemporary plays.

Next door to the state-of-the-art Commonweal Theatre is the St.

Mane Theatre, run by Lanesboro Arts. This theater, one of the oldest

buildings in town, provides a venue for the Lanesboro Community

Theater, concerts, classes and other special events. In addition to live

theater, the recently renovated St. Mane Theatre presents the movies

of local and regional independent filmmakers.

Both theaters are part of the Lanesboro Arts Campus, a layered

and memorable arts experience integrated

into the fabric of Lanesboro

that builds on, and is designed to,

enhance and connect existing assets

— the river, scenery, recreation,

history and downtown — while

extending art into the community.

By utilizing art, design and history

to maintain, strengthen and link

what’s unique and authentic about

Lanesboro, stimulating economic

growth and improving quality of life.

Imagine browsing in the

places where people have been shopping

for generations. The locallyowned

shops offer unique products and services. The historic

buildings provide a beautiful setting for spending the morning or

afternoon, buying souvenirs or special gifts.

Lanesboro is conveniently located in the middle of the nationally

acclaimed Root River State Bike Trail, so it doesn’t matter which

direction you choose to go. Ride on 60 miles of paved trails, following

the river winding its way through woods, bluffs, farms and tiny



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towns.

The trail runs right through the middle of town. After an enjoyable

day of biking through Bluff Country, ride over to the shops, take

a rest at the local brewery and take in the beautiful view of the bluffs.

Grab a bottle of wine and a snack to enjoy at a splendidly restored bed

and breakfast while you get ready to go out for dinner and the theater.

Lanesboro is well known for its many lodging choices. You can

choose to stay at a bed and breakfast, a cabin or an inn – practical,

charming, historic, secluded, on the river. No matter where you stay,

though, you will enjoy generous hospitality, and relaxing comfort.

Some visitors would rather take a more leisurely trip down the

river. Canoes, kayaks and tubes are available to rent in town. Top off

your afternoon with some ice cream.

At the center of town is the jewel of Lanesboro, green, tree-laden

Sylvan Park. It contains a kid-approved playground, seven picnic shelters,

tennis, pickle ball and basketball courts, two spring-fed ponds,

and a gazebo. This 12-acre park is the place to spend an hour or a

whole day. The park is within sight of a waterfall flowing over the

1868 dam, providing the power for the electric power plant which has

been generating power for almost 150 years.

Countless activities are held here. On the first Saturday in June,

the park hosts the famous Rhubarb Festival commemorating Lanesboro’s

status as the Rhubarb Capital of Minnesota as designated by

the Minnesota State Legislature. Later in the month, Art in the Park,

southeast Minnesota’s longest running art festival, features more than

80 art exhibitors, pie (including rhubarb, of course), and music all

day, all taking place in the dappled shade of the park’s stately trees.

Once a year, the first weekend in August, the town celebrates Buffalo

Bill Days, in recognition of the times when Buffalo Bill brought

his famous Wild West show to town. The festival is so big, with so

many activities, it takes three days to do it all. From volleyball tournaments

to dancing, picnics to beer and brats, fireworks to the Grand

Parade, this event has something for the whole family.

Come visit! Discover a slower pace of life with no chain stores or

fast food franchises, and the closest stoplight is 20 miles away. This

quaint town offers invigorating outdoor adventures, breathtaking

views, rich artistic and cultural experiences, unique shopping, locallygrown

foods and fine dining. Come see why visitors love Lanesboro

and return year after year!

City of Lanesboro

Sylvan & Riverview Campgrounds

Bathhouse, campfire rings, playgrounds,

walking distance to bike trail and river.

507-467-3722 | www.lanesboro-mn.gov

Reservations 507.467.2598

35455 State Hwy 16 E, Lanesboro

eagle-cliff.com

A Stunningly Beautiful Campground

Camping Hotel River Outfitting

246 Tent, RV & Seasonal Sites

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Tube, Canoe & Kayak Outfitting

On the Beautiful Root River

Access to Root River Bike Trail


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Game registration

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100 Sheridan St. on Highway 16 West, Lanesboro

(507) 467-2121


DOWNTOWN LANESBORO

LITTLE RIVER GENERAL STORE

NEW BIKES

AT BEGINNING

OF EACH SEASON

Bike Retail • Rental • Repair

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507-467-2943

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First come, first serve - no reservations

BIRIA STEP-THRU BIKE!

Shuttle service

available.

BICYCLE REPAIR/RENTAL

Due to shipping, all types of bikes are based on

availability this year

• BICYCLE SUPPLIES

Bags, Speedometers, Racks, Tubes, Tires, Etc....

• RECUMBENT - SINGLE & DOUBLE

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• ELECTRIC-ASSIST BIKES

• RECUMBENTS

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• CHILDREN’S TRAIL-A-BIKES / KIDDIE KARTS / BIKES

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105 Coffee St. E, Lanesboro, MN • www.LRGeneralStore.net


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Bike rides on the Root

River State Trail

Discover the dramatic river carved blufflands of southeastern

Minnesota. The Root River State Trail is a multiple use trail

covering over 50 miles, through the quaint and picturesque rural

communities of Fountain, Lanesboro, Whalan, Peterson, Rushford

and Houston. This asphalt trail was mainly constructed upon an

abandoned railroad grade that is generally level and wheelchair

accessible. Newly paved in 1999, the eastern segment between

Money Creek Woods and Houston is relatively more challenging

than the western segment with a rather steep, half-mile segment

that may not be suitable for all users.

Bicycling, in-line skating, and hiking are the main summer uses

of the trail. Cross country skiing is popular in the winter. The

Fillmore and Houston county Grants-in-Aid (GIA) trail system,

which provides many miles of groomed snowmobile trails in the

area, intersects briefly with the Root River State Trail.

The Root River State Trail provides outstanding views of the

soaring limestone bluffs of the Root River Valley. Wildlife is abundant

and sightings of wild turkey, deer, hawks and turkey vultures

are common. Rattlesnakes, a state threatened and protected species,

are occasionally found on rock outcrops, along the river bottoms,

or sunning themselves on the trail. They should be left alone.


Todd Hadoff, GRI

507-259-5454

homes@toddhadoff.com

34 years of

experience

Focusing on Handmade, Fair Trade, and Vintage Finds. The Peddler

offers five rooms of eclectic wares in our historic little building.

THE

Our hours do change

seasonally, visit our

Facebook page to

see the most current

PEDDLER

information. Open other

times by chance or

appointment.

107 Coffee St. East, Lanesboro, MN • 507-380-1677


coffeestreetinn.com

305 Coffee St.

Lanesboro,

MN 55949

Since 1870

Open

Year Round...

WE

WELCOME

YOU!

507-467-2674 612-599-2964

•Large Private Bathrooms •Private Entrances •Bike Storage

•Whirlpool, Kitchen, Fireplace •Dog Friendly Under 40 lbs.

•

•In-room Wifi and Coffee, Cable • Heat Tea, and Air Refrigerator, Conditioning • TV •

Microwave Hairdryer

•Wifi and Cable •Heat and Air Conditioning •TV •Hairdryer

• Large Private Bathrooms • Private Entrances • Bike Storage • Whirlpool, Kitchen,

Fireplace • Dog Friendly Under 40 lbs. • In-room Coffee, Tea, Mini Fridge, Microwave

JEFF BROGLE

507.577.1121

BLUFFCOUNTRYPROPERTIES.COM



Ranked #1: Most sellers & buyers represented for LAND

sales in Fillmore County, MN in 2022

Ranked #1: LAND listings sold for 101% of list price in

an average of 6 days in 2022


Founder & Owner


HUNTING | FARM | RECREATIONAL | RURAL HOMES

High Court

PUB

Enjoy amazing craft beers

on tap, great cocktails,

in-house flat breads, and

the best live music in

southeastern Minnesota!

109 North Parkway Ave

Lanesboro MN, 55949

507-467-2782

www.highcourtpub.com

OPEN DAILY TIL LATE

Trivia Tuesdays @ 7:30 PM

and Open MIC Thursdays

7:30 PM til late

Kitchen Always Open

Rent our 3rd floor loft -

go to www.highcourtpub.com

to make reservations.

We have two outdoor decks -

one overlooking the Root River.

Scanlan

HISTORIC

HOUSE INN

LANESBORO, MINNESOTA

RECOGNIZED AS

• Top 10 Places to Wake Up in the State of MN

• Top 15 B&B in USA with Friendliest Staff

• A Most Romantic B&B (Fodors)

•Top 10 Great Place to Relax & Recharge

Breakfast included Saturday and Sunday ONLY

A DESTINATION WITH

• Exquisite Rooms & Suites

• Inspired Architecture

• Luxurious Ambibance

GIFT CERTIFICATES

AVAILABLE!

ALL ROOMS & SUITES

• 2 person Whirlpool and/or

fireplace • Rooms available with

king size beds

• Smart TV • Private bath

• Complimentary WIFI

AM/FM

Celebrating our 39 th year!

1-800-944-2158 or local 507-467-2158 • 708 Parkway Avenue South, Lanesboro

ScanlanBB@aol.com • www.ScanlanHouse.com


COME TO THE CORN MAZE!

ROOT RIVER VALLEY CABIN

34880 Fawn Dr | Lanesboro MN | 507-990-5265

2023 Season Open

Weekends and MEA

Sept. 16- Oct. 29

FLASHLIGHT MAZES:

OCTOBER 20, 21 & 28 | 7-10PM

View our website for

admission pricing,

hours & special events!

ad in the magazine.

signed. Please include

Scan Me!

Corn Maze | Corn Pit

Pumpkin Patch

Jump Pad | Hay Ride

Giant Slide & More!

Join us

for the fun

this fall!

32060 FURROW ROAD LANESBORO, MN

507-216-7946 | BIGSPRINGSFARMMN.COM

Find us on

ROOMS:

5 Beds | Sleeps up to 8 • 3 Bathrooms

Kitchen • Living Room • Loft

Covered Porch

SOME AMENITIES INCLUDE:

Free Wifi • Linens/Towels Provided

Gas Fireplace • Grill • Ice Maker

Dishwasher • Washing Machine/Dryer

Outside Fire Pit • Free Parking on Premises

This beautiful log cabin was built in 2012 by the

Amish & is located along the Root River Trail.

server as they used

er)

LOCAL FOOD • DOWNTOWN LANESBORO

os

www.pedalpusherscafe.com | 507-467-1050


Welcome to

Your Lanesboro

R&R Destination

ON THE ROOT RIVER TRAIL IN DOWNTOWN LANESBORO

• Modern Rooms • Locked Indoor Bike Storage • Strong WIFI

• Breakfast Pastry • Good Coffee • Outdoor Seating • BBQ & Firepits • Rentals

• Suites with a Kitchenette, Living Room & Deck

RootRiverInn.com 106 Parkway Ave S, Lanesboro 507-273-4100


Your Lanesboro adventure begins here!

Historic brick Italianate home built in 1870 that sits

on a hilltop overlooking the quaint historic town

1.3 acres with breathtaking views of the river & dam

Completely restored with historically accurate

Bradbury and Bradbury art papers

Enjoy a meal in the formal dining room or dine

alfresco on one of the many outdoor venues

3 separate bedrooms that each include

one queen size bed & a private bathroom

Deanie's Suite • Grammie's Room • Pearl's Room

(507) 467-2253 | JAMESATHOMPSONHOUSE.COM

401 PARKWAY AVE SOUTH | LANESBORO, MN 55949

BURGER NIGHT- MONDAY

SENIOR DAY- TUESDAY

MENS DAY- WEDNESDAY

WOMENS DAY- THURSDAY

MEAT RAFFLE SUNDAYS AT 3 PM

HOMEMADE SANGRIAS - FAMOUS WILLARDS - FOOD SPECIALS

STAG NIGHT - AND MORE!

To catch up on events and daily specials

call the clubhouse at 507-467-3742

Where wilderness meets luxury...

Located just outside of historic Lanesboro,

Minnesota. Bluff Country Retreat offers a

cozy and private atmosphere for you and

your group to relax and rejuvenate.

651.214.3916

bluffcountryretreat.com

26557 Evening Drive

Lanesboro, MN

• 3 bedrooms

• 12 twin beds

• 4 full bathrooms

• 2 spacious living areas

• Dining space

• Bar area

• Fully Stocked-kitchen

• Fire pit & walking trails

Bunk House

Available as add-on to main

house or for couples getaways



Historical buildings and rural communities along the trail

provide sites of interest to trail users. They also provide many

services. Campgrounds, bed and breakfasts, inns, resorts, restaurants,

museums, outfitters and unique stores are found in many

of the trail towns.

Parking

• Fountain: From Highway 52 take County Road 8 about one

mile to parking lot by city park/softball field.

• Houston: Houston Nature Center, turn west on Plum Street

off of Hwy 76, go one block.

• Preston: Highway 52 to Fillmore St. (Co. Road 12), approximately

1/2 mile west to the parking lot.

• Lanesboro: Parking along streets, at the parking lot by the

Community Center and Sylvan Park. Overflow parking is at the

Bass Pond.

• Rushford: From Highway 16, turn north on Elm Street (State

Hwy. 43), go one block west. Parking lot is by old depot.

• Peterson: From Highway 16, turn west onto Highway 25

(Mill St.) into town; turn south on Fillmore St. to city park/

campground.

• Whalan: On the streets downtown near the Whalan City

Park.

Nearby DNR recreational areas

Forestville State Park, Beaver Creek Valley State Park, Root

River Canoe & Boating Route, R.J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood

State Forest, Rushford Sand Barrerns S.N.A., Harmony - Preston

Valley State Trail.

Root River

Saloon

STOP IN & JOIN

THE FUN!

Open Daily:

Mon. - Fri. at 11am

Saturday at 10am

Sunday at noon

• On/Off Sale

• Pull Tabs & E-Tabs

• Minnesota State Lottery

DAILY

HAPPY

HOUR

112 Coffee Street • Lanesboro, MN 55949

507-467-3355

OPEN MARCH 15 TO DECEMBER 1

22nd Annual

BLUFF COUNTRY

STUDIO ART TOUR

of southeastern Minnesota

A Guest Hus

Motel

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

April 28–30, 2023

Visit more than 30 area artists at work

in their studios or galleries.

Tour the countryside and shop for unique art.

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through

grants from the Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council thanks

to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage

fund. Additional support provided by the River Arts Alliance.

10 AM

to 5 PM

DAILY

Download our mobile app! Find out more at:

bluffcountrystudioarttour.org

Save the dates for our next tour: April 26-28, 2024

76 I Whalan, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Welcome to Whalan

Ernie’s

1917 Station

Whalan, MN

RESTORED FILLING STATION

Non-Operational • For visual enjoyment

Todd Hadoff, GRI

507-259-5454

homes@toddhadoff.com

34 years of

experience

For all your auto body

repair, mechanical &

painting needs

8:00AM - 5:00PM

Monday - Friday

507-467-3598 • Whalan, MN

Jon Van

Minsel

Discover what you have been

missing in the heart of southeast

Minnesota's Bluff Country!

The City of Whalan

Welcomes You!

WHALAN

DEPOT

GIFT SHOP • COLD DRINKS • SNACKS

• ICE CREAM • TREATS & MORE

OPEN MAY- OCTOBER

Located just off the Root River

Trail in Whalan, MN

WHALAN

MUSEUM

507-467-2623 | aromapieshoppe.com

open Seasonally

Our town is a hidden

gem that is located

alongside the Root River

Trail System, just off

the Root River, amongst

300-foot bluffs.

(507) 467-2212

cityofwhalan.weebly.com

224 2 nd Avenue

507.467.2344

(located on upper floor of

the historic Town Hall)

Open most weekends,

Mid-May to Mid-October

Saturday & Sunday

from 11AM-4PM

Or by appointment,

call 507.250.4888

whalanmuseum@gmail.com

whalanmuseum.com

www.visitbluffcountry.com Whalan, MN I 77

Sheltered by towering 300-foot bluffs and laid out

along a hairpin turn in the Root River lies the village

of Whalan. Included in Midwest Living’s Ways to

Play in the Root River Valley, the community affords fun

and adventure at every turn.

While much of the sightseeing in Fillmore County

requires exertion on the part of the

participant, several tours exclusive

to Whalan allow for viewing the

sights, wildlife, and nature while at

complete rest. Take a tour through

the 100 acres of private woodlands,

around and overlooking the river,

with horse drawn wagon or sleigh

rides. For those looking for a bit

more adventure, try a Jeep tour, up

the bluff along switchback trails to

a towering overlook.

The town is a bustling destination

for lodging and fun due to a

number of established accommodations. Settle into a resort

offering 11 cozy, log-sided cabins of various sizes. Winning

the distinction of the Minnesota Resort and Campground

Association’s 2013 Operators of the Year, the resort

is full of amenities, including a retail area, frisbee golf

course, sand volleyball, bocce ball, basketball court, three

playgrounds, and vast green space for whatever your heart

desires. In addition, bikes, canoes, kayaks, and tubes are

available for rent, as are cross-country skis and snow tubes

in the winter. Find the ultimate in relaxation at the resort

with on-site massage, energy and Ayruveda therapies.

Or, let your group check into a riverfront property just

100 feet from the Root River State Trail, offering whole

house rental. Adjacent, the miniature golf is a challenging

and amusing lighted sculpted 9-hole course, the best in the

area. Also available for lodging are a

guest house, inn and campground.

When it’s time for a quieter pace,

visitors can kick back in the striking

city park under the gazebo or stop

in at the famous pie shop, serving

mouth-watering, homemade pies for

over 25 years. History buffs will enjoy

the Whalan Museum, located in the

restored 1898 village hall, complete

with community center on the first

floor, and Ernie’s 1917 Filling Station,

a restored (non-operative) landmark.

Several festivities add to the fun in

Whalan – in July, the city hosts the three-day 4th of July

Fast Pitch Softball Tournament. In September, the city

hosts the Taste of the Trail, a celebration of life and culture

along the Root River Trail. Even winter on the trail is

exhilarating, as the DNR hosts a Candlelight Ski each year

on the first Saturday in February. Participants will enjoy

local food and a bonfire at both ends of the trail route.

Cedar valleY

resort

& Outfitters

A Bluff Country Paradise

Open Year Round!

TOP 5 COUPLES DESTINATIONS

TROUT FISHING

BICYLCE TRAILS

HIKING TRAILS

CedarvalleYresort.Com

507.467.9000

See full page

ad in front of

magazine

AREA WINERIES

KAYAKING

78 I Root River & Harmony-Preston Valley Trail A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

www.visitbluffcountry.com Root River & Harmony-Preston Valley Trail I 79

Trail Guide

MINNESOTA STATE PARKS AND TRAILS

Location

The Root River and Harmony - Preston Valley

State Trails are part of the Blufflands State Trail

System located in southeastern Minnesota. The

Root River segment passes through Houston and

Fillmore counties. The Harmony - Preston Valley

segment is entirely within Fillmore

County.

The Root River and Harmony - Preston Valley

State Trails provide spectacular views of the areas

distinctive limestone bluffs; access to historic

towns; sixty miles of multi-purpose trails;

connections to water trails, campgrounds, and

state forests; and an immersive natural experience.

The DNR Information Center is available to

provide free publications of facilities and services

as well as answers to questions pertaining to

DNR recreational opportunities in Minnesota.

The DNR Information Center

500 Lafayette Road

St. Paul, MN 55155-4040

651-296-6157 (Metro Area)

1-888-MINNDNR (646-6367 MN Toll Free)

mndnr.gov/state_trails

@mnstateparks

MinnesotaStateParksandTrails

This brochure was financed with sales

tax dedicated funds provided by the

people of Minnesota for the Legacy

Parks and Trails Fund through the State

of Minnesota, Department of Natural

Resources, Division of Parks and Trails.

Respect Private Property - Ask First

© 2014

A Guide to the Root River & Harmony-Preston Valley State Trails

Overview

The Root River and Harmony-Preston Valley State Trails are located in southeastern

Minnesota’s Blufflands region. The Blufflands region is a unique, river-dissected landscape

with many rivers and streams, such as the Root River, flowing into the Mississippi. Ages

ago, these waterways cut deep into the earth resulting in majestic rock outcrops, steep

wooded valleys and ravines, and diverse plant and animal communities.

The Root River State Trail meanders 42 miles alongside the Root River from Fountain

to Houston. The Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail runs for approximately 18 miles,

connecting the towns of Harmony and Preston, both settled in the 1850s. The trail rises

and falls with the bluffs, winding through historic towns tucked into hillsides, past rolling

farm fields, milling districts, and relics of the railroads, heyday. Lush and verdant stretches

present the visitor with views of the area’s natural beauty. Both trails are designed for

hiking, biking, in-line skating, and cross-country skiing.

Fountain

The Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific

Railroad platted Fountain in 1870. The town

gets its name from “Fountain Spring” – the

source of the railway town’s water supply.

Fountain is the western gateway to the

Root River State Trail. Public restrooms

and parking are available at the Fountain

trailhead.

Harmony

The “Biggest Little Town in Southern

Minnesota”, Harmony is home to both

traditional Amish communities and green

industries. Harmony is the southern gateway

to the Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail and

offers lodging, dining, and entertainment. A

trail center, parking, and public restrooms are

available at the trailhead.

Houston

Settled in 1852, Houston was a

steamboat port and the center of railroad

transportation. Houston is the eastern

gateway to the Root River Trail. It offers a

canoe launch, a picnic area, a campground

and other lodging and dining opportunities.

Public restrooms and parking are available at

the Houston trailhead.

Lanesboro

Platted in 1868 along the South Branch

as a resort town, Lanesboro flourished as

a transportation and mill center. Today

Lanesboro has a historic downtown district

and offers a campground and picnic

area, lodging, dining, and entertainment

opportunities. A trail center, parking,

campground, and public restrooms are

available at the Lanesboro trailhead.

Peterson

Founded in 1867, Peterson was the site of

flour and feed mills before trout hatcheries

became its main industry. The Peterson

State Fish Hatchery, founded in 1871, is a

mile south of town (now operated by the

MN DNR). There is a canoe launch in town,

as well as public restrooms, parking, and a

campground.

Preston

Settled in 1853 along the south branch of

the Root River, this community was active

in milling. Today the town is the county

seat of Fillmore County. It offers a canoe

launch, picnic area, campground, lodging,

and dining. Public restrooms and parking are

available at the Preston trailhead.

Rushford

Settled in 1854, Rushford was a major

railroad center and mill town. Rushford

is home to the historic Rushford Depot,

now used as a trail center and museum.

Rushford offers a canoe launch, a picnic area,

lodging, and dining. A trail center, parking,

campground, and public restrooms are

available at the Rushford trailhead.

Whalan

Platted in 1868 as a railroad town, Whalan

was once the tobacco center of Fillmore

County. Parking, picnic areas, and

campgrounds are located along the trail

just outside of Whalan.

Scavenger Hunt

Explore the vibrant Root River and Harmony-Preston Valley State Trails. The landscape

abounds with a variety of plants and animals and the rocky layers of the distinctive bluffs

are a virtual treasure trove of plant and animal fossils. While traveling the trail, keep your

eyes and ears open, you may encounter one of the following:

Little bluestem:

Prairieland along

the trail is made

up of a variety of

grasses, including

bunches of little

bluestem. This

grass has flat bluish

leaves that start growing in late spring

and keep growing until winter frost. Little

bluestem typically grows to three feet and

is noticeably smaller than big bluestem,

which can reach up to ten feet.

White-tailed deer

White-tailed deer are

the largest animal

most people will see

along the trail. The

deer are named for

the white underside

of their tail that they

raise and wave while running away in surprise

or alarm. Both bucks (males) and does (females)

are reddish-brown in the summer and grayishbrown

in the winter. Young deer, or fawns, are

reddish-brown with white spots on their backs.

Brachiopods

Millions of years ago parts of

southeastern Minnesota were

covered by a large, shallow

sea. Brachiopods — animals

that look like clams — were

one of the many animals living

in the sea. Look carefully in

the rock walls along the trail

to find fossils of these ancient

creatures.

Turkey vultures

Like wild turkeys, turkey

vultures have bald, red heads.

Turkey vultures eat mostly

dead flesh, and stick their

heads into carcasses to get the

meat. A bald head is easier to

clean after meals. These large

birds are often seen soaring

with V-shaped wings tipping,

clumsily, from side to side.

Red-tailed hawks

Whether perched on a

branch or soaring through

the sky, the broad reddishbrown

tail of the red-tailed

hawk distinguishes it from

other hawks. Even if you

do not see the red-tailed

hawk, you may hear its highpitched

screech.

Oak trees

Both northern

red oak and bur

oak trees grow

along the trail.

Northern red oaks

have leaves with

pointy edges while

the bur oak leaves have rounded edges.

In autumn, northern red oak leaves turn

a brilliant red while bur oak leaves turn

yellow or brown. The gnarly silhouette of

the bur oak is easy to identify year-round.

Gray (common)

treefrogs

In wet, wooded

areas, listen for the

slow, birdlike trill of

the gray treefrog.

Although common in

Minnesota, this frog

is often hard to locate because it changes color

to blend in with tree bark and leaves. One color

that doesn’t change is the bright yellow innerthigh

of the gray frog’s hind legs.

Trail Etiquette:

Share the Trail

with Others

• Stay on designated trails.

• Keep right so others can pass.

• Keep all pets on leash.

• Obey traffic signs and rules.

• Pack out all garbage and litter.

• Respect adjoining landowners’ rights

and privacy.

• Warn other trail users when passing

by giving an audible signal.

• Overnight camping and campfires

are permitted only on designated

campsites.

• Do not leave campfires unattended.

• Enjoy the beauty of wild plants and

animals, but leave them undisturbed

for everyone to enjoy.

Trail users are legally responsible for

obeying the rules and regulations

provided in Minnesota Rules, State

Recreational Trails, 6100.3000 through

6100.4300.

Rest Areas and

Camping Sites

• Public rest areas are available along

the route to rest, picnic, and explore.

• Camp only in designated campsites;

available on first-come, first-serve

basis.

• Bring drinking water. Drinking river

water is not recommended, but if you

do, it must be treated.

• Respect private property. Stop only

at designated sites; much of the

surrounding area is private property.

• Be sanitary! Use designated toilet

facilities or bury human waste away

from the river.

This trail requires a permit for

cross-country skiing. For more

information about the Ski Pass,

please call the DNR Info Center

at 1-888-MINNDNR or visit

mndnr.gov/state_trails.

Turkeys

Traveling in flocks

of six to forty

birds in winter

and on their own

come spring,

these large, round

birds are easy to

spot. Wild turkeys are black or gray and

males have a red head and wattle—a fleshy

growth beneath the beak. Turkeys have

many calls including gobbles, clucks, and

purrs.

Beavers

As the trail passes

rivers and creeks,

look and listen for

signs of beavers.

This large, furry

rodent with

oversized orange

teeth and a paddle-shaped tail makes its

home in the water by felling and stacking

branches and logs into dams and lodges. If

you do not see a beaver, you may see its

home or hear the slap of its paddle tail on the

water’s surface.

Clayton Kern

ROOT RIVER

AND HARMONY

PRESTON VALLEY

STATE TRAILS

Duluth

Rochester

Minneapolis/

St. Paul

Root River &

Harmony-Preston

Valley State Trails

Photos courtesy of MN DNR, unless otherwise noted.

(1,1) -2- Bl

80 I Chatfield, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Natural

Unpaved

Trail

Lost Creek Hiking Trail

is about 6.5 miles long

one way. It is located

west of Chatfield with

parking access at

Groen Park Trailhead

(Co. Rd. 2) and at the

Ninebark Road

Trailhead (Co. Rd. 101).

www.bluffcountryhikingclub.org

Hiking & Snowshoe Only

Chatfield, “Gateway to the Root River Valley” is

just 20 minutes from the bustle of the city, Rochester

International Airport, and Mayo Clinic.

This historic town sits along the Root River and Mill

Creek, and is an outdoor recreation and music destination.

Chatfield is home to three recreational trails, the Root

River Water Trail, the Chatfield ATV trail, and the Lost

Creek Hiking Trail. The Root River and Mill Creek

offer some of the best trout fishing in the region as well

as its most northern canoe and kayak launch. The Lost

Creek Hiking Trail is maintained by the Bluff Country

Hiking Club and offers 6.35 miles of ranging terrain and

ecosystems of forest, prairie, and pasture. For a bit faster

pace, the 16-mile Chatfield ATV Trail sits east of town

and is open to the public May through October. Following

the rise and fall of the bluffs and valleys, and winding

through woodlots, pastures, and along streams, the trail

is geared for all ages and experience levels.

For a quieter pace, you will find the Chosen Valley

Golf Club offers a public, 9-hole regulation course of

5,866 yards for a par of 35. Not a golfer? Birders will

enjoy Pin Oak Prairie, a MN DNR scientific and natural

area (SNA) as well as an Audubon Society Important

Birding Site. Beat the heat with some relaxing laps at

the aquatic center or play a few matches at the city tennis

courts. Chatfield’s park system also offers 47 acres

of creekside walking trails, picnic/play areas, ball fields,


www.visitbluffcountry.com Chatfield, MN I 81


sand volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, biking, a skateboarding

park as well as a hockey and skating rink in

the winter.

If live music or theatre is your thing, the Chatfield

Center for the Arts hosts nationally and regionallyknown

performers as well as visual art exhibits in its

newly restored 1930s-era historic auditorium. It is also

the home to Wit’s End Community Theatre. The city is

also home to the Chatfield Brass Band, a harmonic tradition

for nearly a half century. Its more than 30 members,

of all ages, play a variety of music in an effort to provide

opportunities for amateur musicians to perform and grow

musically and to continue the city’s proud custom. The

city boasts a music lending library, the only one of its

kind in the world today. Dedicated to the preservation

of musical heritage and utilized by musicians worldwide,

the library has collected and cataloged more than 30,000

pieces, many of which are no longer in print.

Get a taste of Chatfield at any one of its several annual

community celebrations: ChillFest in February, Music

and Market in the Park - June and July, Western Days

in August, Fall Fest in September, and Christmas in the

Valley in December.

OPEN DAILY

7:00AM - 9:00PM

FULL

SERVICE

GROCERY

STORE

237 Main St. North, Chatfield, MN

507-867-4272 • www.sunshinefoodstores.com





Your custom apparel

headquarters!

Embroidery

Screen Printing

Heat Transfer/Vinyl

Come visit our store!

Chatfield

Gopher apparel,

gifts & so

much more!

9 Hole Golf Course with Clubhouse Service

Scenic Views | Rolling Terrain | 2933 yards | Par 35

Schedule/Activities

$10 unlimited golf before noon

(every weekday)

May 18- September 14

Ladies Night every Tuesday after 2pm

Mens Night every Wednesday after 12pm

June-August

Couples Golf every Friday night

507-867-4305

1801 Main St. S, Chatfield MN

www.chosenvalleygolfclub.com

We are honored to have

been voted Best of the

Best Banking Services.

HUNTING • FISHING • CAMPING

TWO STORY ARCHERY RANGE

APPAREL • PROSHOP

SE MINNESOTA • NE IOWA • SW WISCONSIN •NW ILLINOIS

Chatfield, MN 507-867-4399

rrsbchatfield.com

Best of the

Best

Winner!

20 22

www.visitbluffcountry.com Chatfield, MN I 83

Buying or selling Rural property?

35,000 Acres

Sold in the Last

2 Years!

Specializing in: Rural properties, farms, hunting land, cabins, build sites and hobby farms

Locally owned and operated with offices in Chatfield MN, Fountain City WI, and Durand WI with

full-time staff available during business hours to better serve your needs.

Let us help you with all your rural real estate needs!

Chad Garteski

507-269-2742

MN & WI Licensed Real Estate Broker

Email: Chad@WeissChoice.com

Alex Loesel

608-323-0116

MN & WI Licensed Real Estate Agent

Email: Alex@WeissChoice.com

Jennifer Nolte

507-421-5428

MN Licensed Real Estate Agent

Email: Jennifer@WeissChoice.com

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Hillside Nursery

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12348 SPRING RD SE, CHATFIELD MN

OPEN APRIL-OCTOBER (CLOSED SUNDAYS)

507-867-3643

Contact Us

507-867-7054

209 Main St. S | Chatfield MN

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Mon. & Sat. | 6am-2pm

Wed. - Fri. | 6am-3pm

Tues. & Sun. | CLOSED

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www.visitbluffcountry.com Fountain, MN I 85

Fountain is the western gateway to the Root River

State Trail, a 60-mile route that encompasses

42-miles of former Milwaukee Railroad bed, winding

along the Root River. The quaint town not only

marks the beginning of the number one rated trail in

Minnesota, but is hailed as the “Sinkhole Capital of the

USA.” This prevailing geographical feature, created by

the karst topography, lends to rolling hills and deep-cut

valleys of the area, on which this unique trail system

resides. Sitting atop the valley, the Fountain sinkholes are

revealed in numerous caverns and underground waterways,

carved throughout the limestone bedrock.

Just as the bedrock has formed the landscape, the history

of the area culture was formed by the colorful people

who settled here. The Fillmore County History Center

and The Emery & Almeda Eickhoff Genealogy Library

highlight the heritage, long-held economics, and occasionally

the peculiarities of the area. Comprised of four

buildings, an 1860s log cabin, and a restored one-room

schoolhouse, the complex is simply astounding.

“County museums can be dull, but not this one,” states

travel site Roadside America. Over 15,000 antiques, collectibles,

and memorabilia are preserved within and each

with a story, including an iron padlock over a thousand

years old, which legend has it belonged to Leif Ericson

the Viking. Another notable exhibit includes the 1932

Model T Sky Scout and a 1947 Air Camper, both built


Fountain

Welcomes

You

“Sinkhole Capital of the U.S.A.”

The most dominant landform in

this area is the sinkhole. These

“holes” can be seen in and around

Fountain, many have been filled

or modified in size and shape.

Sinkholes, caves and caverns form

in the limestone bedrock that lies

immediately beneath the fertile

soil. A sinkhole can be viewed at

the entrance to the city of Fountain

(Hwy. 52) near the welcome sign.

Fountain is the western gateway

for the Root River State Trail.

There is also a viewing platform near the Root River Trail Head.

June 16 & 17

July 28

September 16

For more

information,

call or write:

FOUNTAIN TOWN CELEBRATIONS

60 Mile Garage Sales

Relay for Life

Taste of the Trail

City of Fountain, P.O. Box 115 • Fountain, MN 55935

507-268-4923 • http://fountainmn.org

SUGAR CREEK

VINEYARD AND

MEADERY, LLC

Locally owned by

Kevin &

Bryan Logue

Craft beer in the heart

of karst country!

www.karstbrewed.com

Fountain, MN | 612-747-6367

Fillmore County’s First

Independent Craft Brewery!

23661 County Rd 8

Fountain, MN

Phone: (612) 986-9177

sugarcreekvineyard@gmail.com

sugarcreekvineyard.com

86 I Fountain, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country


by famed aviator Bernard H. Pietenpol, the “Grandfather

of Experimental Aircraft.” The museum’s extensive collection

is also comprised as one of Minnesota’s largest

collections of antique agricultural equipment, showcasing

a restored collection of 36 Oliver tractors, rare handmade

wooden tools, automobiles, and oddities.

The Bue Photography Collection, by 1900s Fillmore

County Photographer Mathias O. Bue, is another museum

treasure. Bue’s work is “a virtual historical picture

book that provides a glimpse of a period, places, and

people that exist now only in memory and literature.”

The comprehensive genealogy library is acclaimed as one

of the best organized and extensive local history libraries

in the State of Minnesota.

City Park is just a stone’s throw from the museum complex.

Here visitors will find picnic shelters, restrooms,

ball fields, basketball and volleyball courts, and a playground.

Dining options include homemade pizza and pie in a

cozy, café atmosphere and a bar and grill serving American

cuisine and providing entertainment. Thirsty? Stop

in for refreshments and entertainment at the brewery just

around the corner.

Abundant family farms fill the landscape surrounding

Fountain and are a sustaining feature of the community.

Pie &

Ice Cream

Made from scratch

Soup Specials

CHECK OUT

OUR PIZZA

SPECIALS!

Phone: 507-268-4406 • Corner of 1st & Main ~ 99 Main St., Fountain, MN

Summer Hours: Sunday 11-8, Monday Closed, Tues.-Thurs. 11-8; Fri. & Sat. 11-9

Winter Hours: Sunday 3-7, Monday Closed, Tues.-Thurs. & Sat. 11-7; Fri. 11-8

STOP IN FOR NOON SPECIALS!

Tues: Turkey Dinner • Wed: Roast Pork Dinner • Thurs: Hot Beef or Meatballs

Fri: Pizza by the Slice Sat: Chicken-n-Biscuits

Need Storage?

PARK IT

HERE

Call 507-251-5297

Fountain, MN

Store your motorcycle, classic car,

muscle car, convertible, camper or boat

in a safe place for the winter months.

If you are running out of space in your garage for

your toys, we have the perfect space available.

Schedule a

Visit TODAY!

CLEAN, DRY STORAGE

with a cement floor.

Closed up tight for the

winter months, but

monitored daily by

storage facility owner.

We are

honored to

have been

voted Best

of the Best

Banking

Services.

SE MINNESOTA • NE IOWA • SW WISCONSIN •NW ILLINOIS

Best of the

Best

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fsbfountain.com

www.visitbluffcountry.com Harmony, MN I 87

The first thing people notice about the city of Harmony is its

pleasant name. Local legend says that the settlers decided

to make their community an incorporated “village” and

met to choose a name. Each group wanted the town named for

its leader, and the bickering became louder. Finally the chairman

banged his gavel on the table and said, “Let’s have Harmony

here!”

Today, visitors to Harmony can take an Amish tour, visit the

magnificent Niagara Cave, and ride or walk on the Harmony-

Preston Valley State Trail, which connects Harmony to the Root

River Trail System.

Like many small towns 100 years ago, Harmony developed

near the railroad, and was peopled by immigrants from Norway,

Germany, and Ireland. That pioneer spirit has survived in the

descendants of those hardy settlers as Harmony continues to serve

the farming and business communities.

The symbolism of the town’s name took on new meaning with

the arrival of Amish families to the area in 1974. Today the Amish

community consists of over 100 families and is concentrated in

the areas around Harmony and Canton. With their old-world

farming methods, the Amish offer a stark contrast to the modern

machinery and tall silos of their neighbors, while reminding tourists

and residents alike of the lifestyle of our ancestors.

Visit the homes and farms of the Amish families living around

Harmony. A local business offers car and group tours of the

Amish settlement. View fine Amish craftsmanship and purchase

their baked goods, baskets, wood crafts, candy, quilts, and more.

While traveling through the beautiful farm country, learn about

the history and beliefs of the Amish community and how their

lifestyle differs from modern ways, while giving us all a glimpse

of how our own ancestors lived and farmed in bygone days.

The area is blessed with rolling hills and valleys, fertile soil

for growing crops, and plenty of water in springs and brooks.

Niagara Cave, a natural result of the area’s karst geology, is an

underground wonderland, millions of years in the making. It was

discovered under a sinkhole and was explored and developed over

the years as local residents turned the cave into a well-known

tourist attraction. Niagara Cave has been in continous development

and operation for 80 years and is now fully run by solar

energy. One-hour guided tours offer a chance to thrill at nature’s

beauty, including a 60-foot waterfall, the crystal “wedding chapel,”

huge stalactites and rock formations that took millions of

years to form, all far below the earth’s surface. The cave stays a

constant 48 degrees year round and offers a 10-acre picnic ground

and a miniature golf course.

The Harmony Area Historical Society has developed a karst

geological interpretive site as an educational tool for both local

residents and visitors to the area. An observation deck with interpretive

signage allows visitors to view a sinkhole, learn about how

it was formed, and why it is important to our environment.

The area has some of the finest trout streams in the state, river

canoeing with rentals available, snowmobile and cross-country

trails, and outsanding hunting for wild turkey, upland game

birds, deer, and small game.

The Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail connects Harmony to


The theater comes to you!

jemmovies.com

Current movies at yesteryears prices

Friday 7:30 • Saturday 4:00 and 7:30 • Sunday 4:00 and 7:30

Follow us on Facebook to see what we are playing!

Birthday Parties made easy at the Jem

Watch a movie or play video games

on the big screen!

NOW OFFERING...

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507-676-5456

MAIN STREET

HARMONY, MN

88 I Harmony, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

COME AND SPEND SOME TIME WITH US IN HARMONY

Perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway!

HARMONY AREA CHAMBER OF

COMMERCE 2023 EVENTS

ECFE EASTER EGG HUNT -

HARMONY COMMUNITY CENTER

Saturday, April 8

BACK ALLEY JAM SERIES - AVEY GROUWS

Thursday, June 15

Sponsored by Harmony Arts Board

HARMONY’S 4TH OF JULY

Tuesday, July 4

BACK ALLEY JAM SERIES - THE PAPERCLIPS

Thursday, July 20

CUSTOMER APPRECIATION

Tuesday, August 1

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA/COMMUNITY TREE

LIGHTING CEREMONY

Saturday, December 2

HOLIDAYS IN HARMONY

Wednesday, December 13

· Tour local Amish community and Niagara Cave

· Shop in unique gift shops, antique mall and service businesses

· Dine in locally-owned restaurants

· Bike the Harmony-Preston Valley Trail and beyond

· Enjoy beautiful parks and outdoor recreation

CHAMBER GOLF TOURNAMENT

Monday, August 7

BACK ALLEY JAM SERIES - LABARGE

Thursday, August 17

DISCOVER FALL IN HARMONY

Saturday, September 23

MONSTER BASH

Oct 13-14, Oct 20-22, Oct 27-29, Oct 31

HAUNTED HARMONY

Saturday, October 28

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY

Saturday, November 18

Stop at the Visitor Center at

15 2nd St NW in Harmony or call

507-886-2469 for more information

www.exploreharmony.com

Contact us for your FREE Harmony Guide at 1-877-886-2469 or online at www.exploreharmony.com



the Root River Trail System, and encompasses over 60 miles of

recreational trail. The trail leaves Harmony and passes a variety of

wooded areas and large panoramic views of rolling hills, springfed

creeks and farm sites. The Harmony Trailhead features a park

area complete with picnic shelter, playground, a disc golf course,

and visitor information center. Bike rental is available in the area.

Interpretive signage has been provided by the Harmony Area

Historical Society throughout the business district. Also, enjoy

the carved musicians now dotting the Harmony business district.

Harmony also has a nine-hole golf course, one of a dozen in

the area which offer an almost endless variety of terrain as well as

reasonable fees and uncrowded courses.

Overnight visitors can choose from guesthouses or a 24-room

motel with a meeting room. A variety of dining options can be

found in Harmony, as well.

Campers may find a comfortable place in Harmony’s municipal

campground or one of several private campgrounds in the area.

Harmony offers the shopper many unique and interesting alternatives.

For fine hand-crafted Amish quilts, furniture and other

items, country crafts, period antiques, and gifts for the spirit, you

need go no further than Harmony’s business district. On Harmony’s

north edge you will find an antique mall with over 100

vendors and a delightful floral and greenhouse business.

Another claim to fame for Harmony is that it is home to Fillmore

County’s only movie theater, which shows current movies

and serves delicious popcorn with real butter.

Amish Tours of Harmony

Located in BReaKeRs

at the Village Green

94 2nd St. NW

Experience a lifestyle

* where the horse & buggy still provide the transportation

* the home is lighted by kerosene lamps

* water is heated on a woodburning stove

• Van Tours

• Car Tours

• Group Bus Tour

• Spring through Fall

• Winter Tours

by appointment

• No Sunday Tours

Enjoy an exciting tour

with one of our knowledgeable guides.

Call ahead or check our website for our opening date!

For Advanced Tickets & Information

507-886-2303 or www.amish-tours.com

* Flower & gift shop

* Beautiful greenhouses

with perennial &

annual plants

* Huge variety of metal

yard art & pottery

Open Year-round Monday - Saturday!

625 Main Ave. N, Harmony | (507) 886-4866


Open Daily 10am-5pm • newgenerationsofharmony.com

130+ Booths • 10,000 sq feet

50 Industrial Blvd NE • Harmony, MN • 507.886.6660

Tasting Room Open Thursday-Sunday

See website for hours • harmonyspirits.net

Check out our Facebook page!

40 1st Ave NW, Harmony, MN

507-886-7687

A FULL CIRCLE "GRAIN TO GLASS" DISTILLERY PRODUCING

SPIRITS FROM GRAINS GROWN IN FILLMORE COUNTY


Triple - M - Furniture HAMMELL EQUIPMENT

Emma Miller

Marty 330 North & Wilma Main, Hochstetler

Harmony, MN

Quality Hardwood

M

Furniture

507-886-2255 • www.hammellequipment.com

Quality Handcrafted Furniture in

Since 1985

Marty & Wilma Hochstetler

1/4 sawn White Oak - Red Oak

Quality Cherry Handcrafted - Walnut- Maple Furniture and in

Mailing Address: Marty 1/4 sawn other & Wilma White Wood Oak Species Hochstetler

- Red Oak

21476 10th St. Marty & Wilma Hochstetler

24852 Quality

Cherry

Klondike Handcrafted

- Walnut- Maple

Road • Harmony, Furniture

and

MN 55939 in

Lansing, Mailing Address: IA 52155 Quality 1/4 sawn

other Handcrafted White

Wood

Oak

Species Furniture in

21476 10th St.

- Red Oak

24852 Klondike Cherry 1/4 sawn - Road Walnut- White • Harmony, Oak Maple - Red MN and Oak 55939

Our store contains many Lansing, useful IA items 52155

and gift ideas such Mailing as: Address: Completely Amish Cherry Owned other - Walnut- Wood & Operated Species Maple and

21476 Mailing 10th Address: St.

• Kitchen Tables • Gliders

other Wood Species

“After 21476 1510th years St. 24852 Klondike Road • Harmony, MN 55939

• Dining Room • Rockers Lansing, IA Completely 52155 of 24852 building Amish UNIQUE Klondike IH Owned COLLECTIBLES furniture Road & Operated • CLOTHING, Harmony, our old TOYS MN location,

& 55939 MORE

Tables

• Trivets Lansing,

we have

IA 52155

• Buffets

• Lazy Susans

moved just ten minutes southwest of

• Occasional Tables • CoastersHarmony. “After 15 years Located of building just on the furniture west side at our of Granger, old Stop location,

we have are Completely nestled moved Amish in just a ten beautiful Owned minutes & Operated spot southwest along IH Toys, Clothing the of

by

• Chairs

• Mixed Wood Completely Amish Owned & Operated Hammell’s!

MN,

• Benches

Cutting Boards

...and much more!

21476 10th St. • Lime Dining Springs, & Bedroom IA 52155Furniture

Open Mon-Sat 8am-6pm | Bedroom Closed Cedar Sundays Chests &• Hutches Holidays Dining

• Dining

Marty & Wilma Room Coffee & Bedroom

Hochstetler & End Tables Furniture

Quality Handcrafted Chairs, Cedar Room Furniture Rockers Chests Furniture

• in & Hutches Gliders

1/4 sawn White Oak

• Dining

- Coffee Red Benches &

Oak

Bedroom

& End Cherry • Shelves Tables

Furniture

-

Walnut- Rustic Hickory Chairs, • and Dining other Wood Species

Cedar Plant Rockers

Chests & Bedroom Stands •

&

Hutches

Gliders Furniture

Coffee Cedar Quilts Benches

& Chests • Gift End

• Shelves Items Tables • Hutches

Formerly across from Niagara Cave

Chairs, Coffee - Plant Much Rockers & Stands More End & Gliders Tables -

We are located just on the west side * Custom of Chairs, Granger, Quilts

Benches & Rockers • Special mn Gift

• Shelves

(ten Items & Orders Gliders

minutes southwest of Harmony) nestled in - a Benches Available

beautiful • spot Shelves *

along the upper Iowa River. enjoy the scenery Plant

Much

and Stands

More -

take a Specializing

step back in time as you shop for furniture

* Custom

Quilts in many Plant &

•

Special

Gift styles Stands Items &

Orders

wood species, for all areas of the home. Quilts • Gift Items

in 1/4 sawn

-

Available

Much More

*

-

Your children can even meet Jason the Pony! white oak

* Custom - Much & Special More Orders -

Specializing * Custom & Special in 1/4

Available * Orders

Available *

- Dining & Bedroom Furniture -

Cedar Chests • Hutches

Coffee & End Tables

Chairs, Rockers & Gliders

Benches • Shelves • Plant Stands

Quilts • Gift Items

* Custom Orders

* AlSo CuStom kItCHen CABInetS

Open

yearround!

Stop in - you’re always welcome!

13222 US 52 | Harmony, MN 55939

Located 2-1/2 miles E. of Harmony on Hwy 52

HOURS: MONDAY - SATURDAY: 8 AM - 6 PM I CLOSED SUNDAY

Upper Harmony. (Adults & Children)

“After 15 Iowa years Located River. of building just Enjoy on the furniture west scenery side at our of and Granger, take a

Great

old

for

location,

“After back we 15 have are in years time nestled moved of as building you in just a shop ten beautiful furniture for minutes furniture spot at southwest our along in & old special many loca-

the of

birthdays

step MN,

Upper styles tion, we & wood have moved species, just for all ten areas minutes of the southwest home.” celebrations!

Harmony. Iowa Located River. just Enjoy on the the west scenery side of and Granger, take a of

step MN, Harmony. back we are in Located time nestled as you just in shop a on beautiful the for west furniture spot side of along in Granger, many the

Upper styles MN,

Specializing

we & Iowa wood are River. nestled species,

in Enjoy in for a the all beautiful areas scenery of spot the and home.” along take the a

step Upper back Iowa in time River. as you Enjoy shop the for scenery furniture and in many take a

Bedroom styles step Specializing back & wood & in Dining time species, as you for shop all areas for furniture of the home.” in many

styles & wood species, for all areas of the home.”

Bedroom Room Furniture

Specializing

& Dining

in

Specializing in

Bedroom

Room Furniture

& Dining

Specializing sawn white in oak 1/4

sawn white oak

Specializing in 1/4

Specializing in 1/4

sawn white oak

sawn white oak

Specializing in

Dining Room &

Bedroom Furniture

Hwy 63

Hwy 63

to Rochester

To Waterloo

10 th St.

Hwy 44

klondike

*

looking Glass

Prairie Furniture

Hwy 30

Harmony

20 years

of Quality Craftmanship.

Building tomorrow’s heirlooms.

Hwy 15

Victory Ave

Hwy 30

50th St

•

Cresco

Hwy Hwy 139 139


Chef/Owner

Matt Brown

Outdoor seating &

Private party

room available.

Catering

Available

A neighborhood eatery featuring:

• craft beers

• farm to table

• wine and cocktails, as well

• scratch kitchen

• seasonal fresh menu

• handmade pasta

• 100 seat covered patio

“...freshness is evident in every qualityladen,

deliriously delicious bite.”

– Rick Nelson, Mpls. Star Tribune

121 Main Ave N. • 507-886-1234

www.estelleseatery.com

Hours: Wed-Sat: 11am-8pm

Innkeepers:

EAT I RELAX I ENJOY

YOU’RE ALWAYS WELCOME!

55 Center St. W

Harmony, MN

507-886-2225

myharmonyfoods.com

Monday-Saturday 7am-8pm

Sunday 8am - 7pm


Go to

www.niagaracave.com

to make your online

reservations!!


BOUTIQUE & CONSIGNMENT

Vintage

The lower level of our store is filled

with an ever-changing selection of

vintage and antique finds!

Boutique

65 Main Ave N.

Harmony, MN

shopbeebalm.com

507-886-BEES

Gifts & Decor

Our shop features a curated collection

of new gifts & home decor, including

Harmony t-shirts!

Shop our brand new selection of

women's boutique clothing including

Judy Blue jeans, Myra bags, shoes,

jewelery & more!

Consignment

We accept like-new, in- season

clothing for women, children & men.

Pam’s Off Sale

Liquor

NICE SELECTION OF WINE~~BEER~~LIQUOR

MON.-SAT. 10AM - 9PM • SUN. 11AM – 6PM

PHONE: 507-886-7949

Sandwiches • Salads • Smoothies • Slushies • Malts • Shakes

Ice Cream • Boba Tea/Boba Popping Fruit Teas or Lemonade

Open Mon-Sat.,10am - 5pm • 507-886-7263

Online ordering

www.BreakersHarmony.com

Country Lodge Inn

of Harmony

Your “Home Away

From Home”

Harmony

Golf Club

535 4 th St. NE, Harmony MN

» Carts available

» Banquet and meeting space to rent

» Beautiful 9-hole golf course and clubhouse

Find us online at Harmonygolfclub.com

507-886-5622 harmonygolfclub@outlook.com

25 spacious, tastefully decorated rooms. Microwave &

refrigerator in every room. Luxurious yet cozy atmosphere.

Very quiet & clean with modern amenities. Free Wi-Fi.

Nice large deck to relax on and watch Amish buggies go by.

Come relax and be yourselves at the Country Lodge Inn!

Located at 525 Main Avenue North, Harmony, MN

Call 507-886-2515 for a reservation.

email:Harmonymotelmn@yahoo.com • www.countrylodgeinnharmonymn.com


Harmony-Preston Valley Trail

Enjoy Minnesota hospitality, southeastern style. The paved

Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail is a beautiful 18-mile long

multiple use trail that connect Harmony and Preston with the

existing Root River State Trail. Main summer uses are hiking,

biking and in-line skating. The trail is groomed for cross country

skiing in the winter.

The northern two-thirds of the Harmony-Preston Valley

State Trail follows or crosses Watson Creek, the South Branch

of the Root River, and Camp Creek, passing through a variety

of wooded areas and farmland on an abandoned railroad grade.

This section is wheelchair accessible. Three fishing platforms

provide access to trout fishing in Camp Creek just outside of

Preston.

The southern segment was not constructed on an abandoned

railroad grade. This segment of the trail between County 16 and

Harmony climbs out of the river valley, and angles cross country

into Harmony. The trail rises up and down over a number of

little hills, punctuated with a rather strenuous incline that may

not be suitable for all users.

Although Harmony and Preston were both settled in the

1850s, the cities are quite different in appearance. Harmony was

developed upon the agricultural uplands above the Root River

valley while Preston is located within the valley. Both communities

speak to a very different time in Minnesota’s history with

several preserved buildings and interpretive opportunities.

See the Harmony-Preston Valley Trail map and guide on

pages 78-79.

ASK US ABOUT...

Burger of the week

Pizza of the month

FULL BAR AVAILABLE!

Check out our menu and order online by

clicking "SHOP NOW" on our Facebook page

507-886-2483

51 MAIN AVE. N., HARMONY, MN

MINNESOTA

Fillmore County Historical Center (Library & Museum)

202 Co Hwy 8, Fountain, MN 55935

(507) 268-4449 • fillmorecountyhistory.org

Giants of the Earth Heritage Center

163 W Main St, Spring Grove, MN 55974

(507) 498-5070 • giantsoftheearth.org

Historic Forestville Museum Village

Access through Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park entrance

21899 County Road 118, Preston, MN 55965

(507) 765-2785 • mnhs.org

Houston County Historical Society

104 S History Lane, Caledonia, MN 55921

(507) 725-3884 • houstoncountyhistoricalsociety.org

Lanesboro Museum

105 Parkway Ave S, Lanesboro, MN 55949

(507) 467-2177 • lanesboro.com

Peterson Station Museum

228 Mill St, Peterson, MN 55962

(507) 875-2415 • petersonmn.com

Rushford Depot Museum

401 S Elm St, Rushford, MN 55971

(507) 864-7560 • rootrivertrail.org

Spring Valley Methodist Church Museum

221 W Courtland St, Spring Valley, MN 55975

(507) 346-7659 • springvalleymnmuseum.org

Winona County History Center

160 Johnson Street, Winona, MN 55987

(507) 454-2723 • winonahistory.org

IOWA

Allamakee County Historical Society Museum

& Genealogy Research Center

121 Allamakee St NW, Waukon, IA 52172

(563) 568-2954 • allamakeehistory.org

Decorah Genealogy Association

808 River St, Decorah, IA 52101

(563) 382-4197 • decorahgenealogyassociation.com

Fayette County Historical and Genealogical Society

100 N Walnut St , West Union, IA 52175

Phone: (563) 422-5797

Howard-Winneshiek Genealogical Research Center

Cresco Public Library

320 N Elm, Cresco, IA 52136

(563) 547-2540 • cresco.lib.ia.us

Winneshiek County Historical Society

302 S Mill Street, Decorah, IA 52101

(563-382-4166 • winneshiekcountyhistoricalsociety.com

WISCONSIN

La Crosse County Heritage Center

506 Main Street, La Crosse, WI 54601

(608) 782-1980 • lchshistory.org

Prairie du Chien Historical Society

717 S Beaumont Rd, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821

(608) 326-6960 • fortcrawfordmuseum.com

Historical Society/Genealogy Directory

96 I Welcome to Amish Country A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Welcome to Amish Country


Photo by Randy Fath on Unsplash

Remember to include a visit to the Amish community on

your next trip to southeast Minnesota. One hundred fifty

Amish families, about 1,000 Amish, live in the rich agricultural

area surrounding the communities of Harmony and

Canton.

Visitors can either tour the area on their own, listen to

an audio tour while touring, or take a guided tour. Amish

Experience of Lanesboro sells pre-recorded audio tours

online at amishbackroadstour.com or they are available at

the Lanesboro and Harmony visitor centers. Bluffscape

Amish Tours (Lanesboro), and Amish Tours of Harmony

provide guided tours in southeast Minnesota.

The Amish that settled in southeast Minnesota

in 1974 are Old Order Amish.

They are considered the country’s

most conservative. The Amish

are a diverse group of people. For

example, the Amish community

south of Harmony near Granger are

Old Order Amish but visitors will notice

differences between them and those from

neighboring areas.

The Amish refer to non-Amish as English.

Driving through the area it will not

take visitors long to identify which farms the

Amish own. First, the two-story white farmhouses

are recognizable; simple-looking designs differ from ornate

decorated English farmhouses. Next, visitors will see horses

and black buggies tied to the hitching post and horsedrawn

equipment being used for field work. Another sign

that the farm is Amish owned are the black and shades of

blue clothes hanging on the clothesline. Even in the winter,

the clothes are dried outside and brought inside to finish

drying.

The Amish lifestyle is strongly tied to their religious

beliefs. Ten church districts and Amish families host church

services in their homes.

Rich Bishop, owner and operator of Amish Tours of Harmony,

summarizes Amish life as “staying separate from the

world and still living in the world and taking advantage of

the world.”

Pictures of the Amish are not allowed to be taken. The

Amish believe that if they are made in the image of God,

then having an image of themselves is the same as having an

image of God. The only mirror in the homes is a small mirror

used by the men to shave their beards, it does not show

their whole

face. Visitors

will notice

that the Amish

dolls do not

have any faces

on them. Some Amish allow visitors to take

photographs of merchandise, the interior of

their stores, buildings, animals, or field, but first,

Make plans to attend the annual

Amish greenhouse tour every spring.

Photo by Caleb Jack on Unsplash

ask permission before taking any pictures.

Amish homes do not have electricity or indoor plumbing

other than cold water in the kitchen and laundry

room. Instead, kerosene lamps are used to light the

house.

There are no phone lines to the homes. Some businessmen

and businesswomen have cell phones but are not

kept in the house. Instead, they are kept in outer buildings

where they can be charged. They typically do not

answer the phone, but will call back.

On guided tours with Amish Tours of Harmony, visitors

will get a rare opportunity to tour an Amish home. A visitor

will immediately notice the simplicity of the kitchen.

Eyes are drawn to the wood-burning cooking stove, the

sink, and a table. The children’s bedrooms are always

upstairs, and the parents sleep downstairs. Visitors sleep

upstairs. A wood-burning store for heating the house is


www.visitbluffcountry.com Welcome to Amish Country I 97

Photo by Crystal Huff on Unsplash


found in another room. A treadle sewing machine is used

for their crafts and sewing.

One of the outer buildings is the icehouse, used to store

ice. Ice is gathered from the drainage ponds during the

cold winter months and used throughout the year.

There are 10 one-room schools in the area. Children

attend school until the eighth grade. After eighth grade,

children receive informal education at home. School age

children clothed in black or blue homemade clothes with

either the signature Amish bonnet or black felt or straw

hat on their heads can be seen playing in the school yard.

Drive carefully on the curvy, hilly back roads as many

Amish travel slowly in their buggies. It is difficult to see

the black buggies at night as there are no lights on them.

Some buggies may have a reflective slow-moving sign.

These Amish are not allowed to have shops or permanent

jobs in town. However, in some Amish communities, you

will find Amish shops in town and Amish working in English

shops and restaurants. They can work in town as long

as it is temporary, like construction jobs.

Amish shops are closed on Sundays and religious holidays

and open Monday through Saturday. Stores are open

daily year-round except for Sunday. Stores are also closed

on Epiphany Day, Ascension Day, Good Friday, Thanksgiving,

and Christmas. Watch for open signs at the end of

their drives to confirm that they are open for business.

The Amish only accept cash or checks.

Each Amish shop carries something different: bulk

ingredients, honey, homemade baked goods, canned goods,

baskets, leather belts, woodwork, furniture, quilts, aprons,

pillows, and Christmas decorations. At Triple M Furniture

between Harmony and Canton, visitors will find quality

wood furniture and smaller wood items like wooden rocking

horses, lazy susans, and wooden wine bottle stoppers.

Make sure to purchase a small surprise box at Triple M as

a gag gift. It will have everyone laughing, including the

A traditional Amish style farmhouse commonly seen in the

Amish community around Harmony, Minn.

Photo by Charlene Corson Selbee

recipient.

Looking Glass Prairie Furniture Store southwest of

Harmony (near Granger) specializes in dining room and

bedroom furniture made from quarter-sawn white oak, red

oak, cherry, walnut, rustic hickory, and other wood species.

Other items visitors will find in the store include cedar

chests, hutches, coffee and end tables, rockers and gliders,

shelves, and plant stands.

Cashew crunch and fruit-filled glazed fried pies can

be purchased at Amish stores and farmer’s markets. They

are the perfect snacks to enjoy when driving through the

countryside. Remember to purchase extra for gifts or for

enjoying at home!

The Amish can also be found at the area farmers markets,

selling their goods.

In the spring, the Amish greenhouses are very popular

with residents and visitors as the selection of plants is vast,

the plants are healthy, and are sold at reasonable prices.

Tip: Don’t wait until the planting season ends, as they sell

out quickly.

Enjoy visiting Amish country!

98 I Canton, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Canton, located along U.S. Hwy. 52, is the first Minnesota city

along this major north-south route.

Canton was originally founded in 1879 as a stopping point

for the railroad. At first its legal name was Boomer, depicting how fast it

was built, but because another town in Minnesota had the same name,

Boomer was changed to Canton.

Canton’s population has remained constant at just under 400. For

many years its economy was based on agriculture. This has changed,

however. Increasingly more of its citizens are young families, who like

the small town flavor of Canton, the affordable housing, closeness to

various large cities that offer employment and easy access to a major

highway. In recent years, Canton’s business community has experienced

significant growth, with restaurants, antique shops and specialty services

among the offerings.

The city’s train depot is listed on the National Register of Historic

Places. The Canton Historical Society continues efforts to renovate and

restore the 1879 depot to its original state. The Mitson Museum also

provides visitors with a glimpse into Canton’s past. Built in 1882, the

former Main Street residence is now home to several historical treasures.

The community is also developing a veterans memorial in the downtown

square.

The oldest church in Fillmore County, the 1856 Lenora Methodist

Church, is located just four miles north of Canton. It is worth a visit

to see the structure, constructed from locally quarried stone. Inside are

hand carved pews, a pot belly stove, an old pump organ, as well as kerosene

lamps.

The farmland around Canton, with its rich soils, was the first area

of choice by the local Amish community, which began to settle just

north of town in 1974. That community has grown steadily and now

encompasses many acres. Buggies are a common sight in town and in the

countryside. U.S. Hwy. 52 between Prosper and Preston is a designated

Amish Buggy Byway.

The third weekend of August, the people of Canton take a “day off.”

The city’s annual summer celebration dates back to 1903. These days,

Canton Day Off includes a BBQ contest, beanbag tournament and live

music. For dates and events visit cantondayoff.com. Every December,

Canton celebrates Christmas with its annual Santa Day and lighted

parade.

Abundant pheasant, deer, raccoon, and turkey populations, as well as

great trout streams, make hunting and fishing a major attraction around

Canton. Groomed snowmobile trails run through the area and city. For

more City of Canton information visit cantonmn.com.

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3 bedroom & 2 bath: Sleeps 12+

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Close to Harmony and Lanesboro, MN for

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our private pond or in Lanesboro on the

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www.visitbluffcountry.com Canton, MN I 99

Welcome to Canton!

The small town with 2 Museums!

TOUR

MAP

ON PAGES 156-157

BREWERY, DISTILLERY & WINERY

Collectibles Furniture

Gifts Primitives Art

The 1882

MITSON

HOUSE

307 North Main St.

Free Guided Tours

Saturdays 1-4pm

June-August

Original furnishings and memories live in these walls.

The 1879 RAILROAD DEPOT

101 West Prairie

105 Main Street, Canton, MN

507-438-5333 or 507-438-9142

OPEN Thursday - Sunday

11a.m. – 5p.m.

On National Register!

Restoration in Progress

Free Guided Tours Call 507-743-8338

Original

RR Wall

Clock,

Lobby

Bench,

Lanterns,

RR Oil

Cans, &

Photos

Time passes slowly along the Historic Bluff Country Scenic

Byway, with change coming nearly imperceptibly to both the

natural landscape and the lifestyle of its residents. Impressive

limestone bluffs rise over enduring hardwood forests, while the

water of the region etches out magnificent

caverns beneath the earth. Visitors

can lose themselves in timeless

sights and activities amidst natural

wonders and rural communities.

Most of the Historic Bluff Country

Scenic Byway passes through the

Richard J. Doerer Memorial Hardwood

Forest, a two million acre

natural area full of walnut, oak, elm,

birch, black cherry and pine trees.

Unlike certain other areas, the forest

is designed for human use, whether

camping, hiking, backpacking, or

wildlife viewing. Two trails that cross the forest encourage

these activities: the Root River State Trail and the Harmony-

Preston Valley State Trail. In addition to pavement for the ease

of wheeled and foot traffic, sections of the trails are groomed

for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing in the winter.

Along with the aboveground activities, several subterranean

tours await along the Byway. Nearby Niagara Cave in Harmony

Historic Bluff Country

features several fascinating formations, such as the Wishing

Well, a vaulted underground wedding chapel, and a 60-ft.

underground waterfall. Closer to the Byway, Mystery Cave offers

tours through its natural formations, and the caves offer a cool

respite from a hot day with a constant

temperature of 48 degrees. Visitors

can also reserve more advanced spelunking

tours through more remote

and challenging sections of the cave.

Above Mystery Cave is the Forestville

Historic Village. Operated

by the Minnesota Historic Society,

Forestville portrays several restored

period structures from the nineteenth

century. Forestville was prosperous

until the railroad passed it up, relegating

Forestville to an older way

of life. Eventually, the son of one

of the founders owned the entire village. Another way to

experience an older way of life is to visit local Old Order Amish

communities that dot the Byway, featuring acres of beautiful

farmland, and handicrafts such as furniture, toys and quilts.

With distinct culture, fascinating geology, and hardwood

beauty, the Historic Bluff Country Scenic Byway lets visitors

experience timeless Minnesota.

100 I Minnesota Trout Fishing Map A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

SOUTHEASTERN MINNESOTA TROUT STREAMS

The streams of southeastern Minnesota are very different

from North Shore streams. Most rise from springs and

thus are cool in summer. The limestone and alluvial soils in

drainages make the streams hard, nonacidic, alkaline and

very productive. Whereas the North Shore streams have

relatively few aquatic insects, the southeast streams produce

frequent hatches of mayflies, caddis flies and midges-all

providing food for trout.

Nonetheless, southeast trout streams do have problems,

most related to agriculture. Fence-to-fence grain farming on

the uplands and pasturing of the river bottoms contribute

to land erosion and sedimentation of the streambeds. This

fine sediment covers the gravel runs and riffles that trout

need to spawn and invertebrates need to survive. The clearing

of shoreline trees takes away the underwater root wads

and fallen trees in which trout find cover from current and

predators. Finally, many of these streams simply aren’t very

large, and large trout find little cover. So, while the best of

these streams may produce up to 300 pounds of fish per

acre-excellent production by any measure-18-inchers may be

scarce except as figments of the imagination.


www.visitbluffcountry.com Minnesota Trout Fishing Map I 101


Because the chemistry and productivity of these streams

are good, trout respond well to some kinds of habitat

improvement. For example, the use of planks and boulders

to build artificial overhanging banks increases big-fish

cover, as does the placement of boulders in channel. Riprap

prevents bank erosion. Wing dams and other current

deflectors keep silt from key areas.

Brown trout are the trout best suited to the southeast

streams. In the best of these rivers, such as Trout Run (in

Winona and Fillmore counties), browns are self-sustaining.

In other streams, such as the South Branch of the Whitewater,

natural reproduction is augmented with stocking. In a

few streams, spawning habitat is extremely limited, and the

trout fishery is maintained entirely by stocking. Most people

fishing these streams would regard a 14-inch brown as

large, though some trout occasionally exceed eight pounds.

Some small southeast tributaries support wild brook

trout; other streams are stocked with brookies. Some strains

of rainbow trout have been tried in these creeks. Unfortunately,

rainbows tend to migrate to larger, less suitable water

so success with this species has been limited.

Source: http://www.dnr.state. mn.us/index.html

102 I Trout Fishing in Bluff Country A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

TROUT FISHING - AN ACTIVITY

FOR ALL AGES AND SKILL LEVELS

Do memories of fishing as a child swirl in your head?

Have you wanted to learn to fish and did not know where

to begin? You may not be familiar with Bluff Country.

The scenic Bluff Country region of southeast Minnesota

and northeast Iowa offers hundreds of miles of streams of

quality trout fishing. In addition, the natural cold streams

make for a

healthy

habitat

where

trout can

thrive.

People

come

to this

region

to fish for brown, brook, and

rainbow trout. Most fish caught in this area

are rainbow trout. Experienced fishers come to

this region angling for brook trout, which are native

to Minnesota and Iowa.

“Stop into Root River Rod Co. to talk with us. We can

answer your questions. We also carry the DNR map and

regulation books. We sell all flies and lures for the non-fly

fisher,” shared Lance Prado, owner of Root River Rod Co.

“Fillmore County boasts the best trout fishing in southeast

Minnesota. In the Root River, you can fish for trout, smallmouth

bass, pike, and walleye. We do not sell licenses here,

but they are easy to purchase online or at the BP gas station

Photo courtesy of Dave Strom


in town.”

Minnesota DNA reminds residents and visitors to only

buy fishing licenses online through the state DNR website

http://licenses.dnr.state.mn.us/ or by calling (888) 665-

4236 or from a state-approved vendor. DNR has a list of

approved vendors by county available on its website. There

are 12 locations in Fillmore County and nine in Houston

County.

The Iowa DNA website also lists the state’s approved

vendors. For example, there are 13 vendors in Winneshiek

County.

Include

a stop at

Driftless

Trout fishing for all ages, abilities and skill from the

Sylvan Park fishing dock in Lanesboro, Minn.

Photo courtesy of Lanesboro Chamber of Commerce

Fly Fishing

Co.

in Preston

and talk

with owner

Mel Hayner

for information,

tips, and

directions.

Hayner

proudly

boasts,

“We can


Owner and fishing guide, Lance Prado, Root River Rod Co.,

Lanesboro, fly fishing the trout rich Root River.

Photo courtesy of Lanesboro Chamber of Commerce

www.visitbluffcountry.com Trout Fishing in Bluff Country I 103


help you catch trout in SE Minnesota!” If visitors are wondering

what the current conditions are, Hayner offers a fishing

hotline, (507)327-4276, every other Saturday during

the fishing season, and he provides free fly-fishing classes.

Root River Rod Co offers full and half day guided drift

boat and guided wade trips. Driftless Fly Fishing Co guides

are Orvis endorsed guides.

Serious fishers recommend reading Trout Streams of Wisconsin

and Minnesota by Jim Humphrey and Bill Shogren

in addition to the Minnesota and Iowa DNR regulation

books. The book contains everything you need to know,

and it names specific creeks and streams, plus the book

includes maps.

Expert tips

• Stick to what you do best at home.

• Explore new water on each trip.

• Use a Pink Squirrel fly as it one of the most effect flies

for trout that you can fish with no matter where you go. The

Pink Squirrel is credited to a Wisconsin Bluff Country man.

• Live bait is the easiest method for beginners to catch

trout. Check to confirm that using live bait is permitted.

Introduce your kids to fishing at the trout ponds in

Lanesboro. No fighting with hooks that get stuck in the

trees or weeds. Do not plan on spending more than 15

minutes fishing with small children as they get bored easily.

The key is to have fun!

In 2023, take your kids fishing in Iowa for free June 2-4

and in Minnesota, June 9-11.

Minnesota’s Trout Capital, Preston, located on the south

branch of the Root River, organizes a Trout Days celebration

each year in May. It is the perfect time to visit the area,

fish, and enjoy everything trout. Activities include a 9-hole

fishing course and a kids’ fishing contest.

Leave no trace!

Steve Sobieniak, a

nationally known maker of

bamboo fly fishing rods and

owner of Root River

Rod Co., a full-service

fly shop in Lanesboro,

Minn., died

September 22, 2022,

after a year-long

battle with cancer.

Throughout

his 67

years, he

was recognized

as an

artisan

carpenter

in

the Twin

Cities which

combined with

his love of fly

fishing that he

learned from his

father as a young

boy, paved the

In memory of Steve Sobieniak

Photo submitted

road to becaming a master bamboo fly fishing rod craftsman.

In 2017, after leaving the construction industry to make

rods full time, he and his wife Vicki opened Root River Rod

Co in historic Lanesboro. The store is now owned and operated

by his daughter Alayna and son-in-law Lance Prado.

His knowledge of the trout fishing in Southeast Minnesota

as well as his deep knowledge of fly-fishing history is a

loss felt throughout the area and the wider fly-fishing community.

Steve often was the smiling face greeting anglers

as they walked into the fly shop. He was known for his

kindness, generosity, integrity, and support for trout stream

conservation. From diagnosis to the very end, Steve traveled

his path with complete strength, courage, and an amazingly

positive attitude.

Steve loved the Root River and being a part of the Lanesboro

community. There will be a Root River cleanup this

summer in Steve’s honor.

Father and daughter, John and Paisley Kinneberg

fishing for trout alongside the banks of Camp Creek

on the outskirts of Preston, Minn.

Photo courtesy of Preston Area Chamber of Commerce

104 I Iowa Trout Fishing Map A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Welcome to Iowa Trout Country

Iowa’s trout program consists of 48 catchable rainbow, brown and

brook trout fisheries, seven special trout fisheries, three winter trout

fisheries, and 28 put-and-grow trout fisheries. Most of these must

be maintained by stocking because successful natural reproduction

of trout occurs in a few Iowa waters. Six trout fisheries, however,

offer excellent angling opportunities for catching wild, naturallysustaining

brown or brook trout populations. These various types of

trout fisheries have been developed to enable the trout angler to select

the types of trout fishing preferred.

On your next outing in Northeast Iowa, plan to visit one of Iowa’s

www.visitbluffcountry.com Iowa Trout Fishing Map I 105

three trout production facilities- Manchester, Decorah, or Big Springs.

The grounds to each facility are open to the public year round from

sunrise to sunset. Fisheries employees are present during office hours to

answer your questions pertaining to all of Iowa’s fisheries programs as

well as current trout stream conditions.

Trout Fishing for Kids

A pond at Big Springs Hatchery, near Elkader, has been specially

designated as a fishing pond for kids ages 12 and under. The pond has

easy access and is stocked weekly to provide young anglers with a likely

chance of reeling in their first trout. All kids must be accompanied by a

properly licensed adult angler. Additional rules are posted at the pond.

Source: http://www.iowadnr.gov/fish/fishing/trout/troutstr.html

106 I Preston, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Preston is settled in the heart of the driftless area of southeastern

Minnesota. The topography sets the stage for astounding vistas

and the winding river valley. As Minnesota’s Trout Capital, Preston

offers an abundance of waterways, wildlife, farm land and forests.

The Root River watershed, dubbed “arguably the best” by fly fishing

lovers, is part of one of the largest collections of freshwater springs in the

world, easily luring the angler.

Downtown Preston boasts its own historical pride with the 1902

Milwaukee Elevator, a towering site. Also on the site are a restored 1939

Milwaukee Road boxcar, a restored motor car, and a 1951 caboose. The

trailhead is nearby and beckons visitors to hike, bike, skate, and ski the

paved Root River Trail system or the 18-mile Harmony-Preston Valley

State Trail.

Several unique businesses dot the city and surrounding area, including

apple orchards offering the best apple varieties around. Several culinary

options are available in Preston: fine dining, quick and delicious

made-to-order sandwiches, and the best breakfasts and burgers in the

area. New to the downtown atmosphere is a family-friendly brew pub

that offers coffee, beer and delicious food.

The city features two golf courses; one nine holes and the other, 18

holes. The latter is part of a resort, rated as one of the 24 Best Midwest

Campgrounds by Midwest Living. The resort sits atop a sloping ridge

and offers amenities such as a camping, a hostel, restaurant, and pool.

Another campground sits nestled along Forestville Creek and is on a

century-old farm, while a second campground is nearer to town at the

county fairgrounds. Downtown offers more traditional lodging options.

For those looking for an off-beat lodging experience, with all the com-


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www.visitbluffcountry.com Preston, MN I 107


forts, the former Fillmore County Jail and carriage house has been

completely renovated to a 12 room bed and breakfast.

A State Veterans Cemetery sits on the edge of town and is a must-see

for those looking to honor our fallen heroes. Veterans from the tri-state

area are buried there. With over 169 acres of rolling hills and trees, this

cemetery has been recognized as the most scenic in the nation. It is an

honorable place to honor those who have served.

Preston has prided itself in becoming a Veteran-Friendly Community.

The Preston Servicemen’s Club helped create a Community Flag

Program where hundreds of flags are displayed on flag holidays. It’s a

truly beautiful site. Preston also became a Purple Heart City in 2019.

Coming in the spring of 2023 is a State Veteran Home that will house

54 residents who require skilled-nursing. Preston will become the only

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city in the entire state to have a veterans cemetery and a veterans home.

Nearby, you’ll be able to check out one of the most beautiful State

Parks in Minnesota, Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park!

Mystery Cave, the longest cave in the upper Midwest, owes its beginnings

to the waterways. The 13-mile cave system (with potentially miles

more of undiscovered caverns) is a subterranean marvel, at a constant

48º, that includes stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, fossils, and underground

pools. Park naturalists lead a variety of tours, including an easy

walk along lighted walkways to sites such as Turquoise Lake, a 12-foot

deep pond colored a breathtaking blue by calcite; and physically challenging

passes past the Garden of the Gods formation and Blue Lake,

the largest pool in the cave system. For a more adventurous outing,

the Wild Caving Tour will see visitors crawling and squeezing through

undeveloped portions of the cave.

The cave is part of the Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park, listed as

one of the Best Midwest State Parks by Midwest Living. The 3,000-acre

paradise is perfect for picnicking, watching wildlife, hiking, horseback

riding, skiing, or snowmobiling and home to dramatic Big Spring and

The Zumbro Hill Cemetery, reflecting early life and death in the boomtown

of Forestville.

Historic Forestville, also part of the park, begins with a walk across

the Carnegie Steel Bridge. Visitors will step into 1899 along with costumed

guides depicting the people and life in the village businesses,

homes, and gardens. The village includes five original structures; the

Meighen store and home, granary, carriage barn, and barn. In a reconstructed

barn, a gift shop offers 19th century replicas such as kitchen

gadgets and supplies, bonnets and hats, books, toys, games, and custom


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Monday-Saturday: 6am - 9pm

Sunday: 6am - 8pm

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507.765.2522

Birthday Parties Available


GolfinG SpecialS

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Women’s Day • Tuesday • 2pm

Men’s Day • Thursday • 12pm

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book a tee time

prestongolfcourse@gmail.com

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Enjoy the views of our gently rolling 9 hole course!


glazed pottery. Several signature events are held at the site each year!

Throughout the year, Preston is bustling with activity,

including Trout Days festivities the third weekend in May,

the Fillmore County Fair the third week of July, the Root

River Trail Towns 60-Mile Garage Sale, and three nights

of music at Rhythm by the River. The autumn and winter

season offer Taste of the Trail in September, a tractor ride

with 100 tractors in the fall, and a Turkey Day Run held

Thanksgiving Day. In the winter, guests are welcome to try

out Cross-Country skiing on the trail, check out Forestville

State Park for snowshoeing, eat at our unique restaurants,

shop, and enjoy our brewery in downtown Preston.


Preston Motor Mart



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Highway 52 & 16 in the center of Preston

(507) 765-3330

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Located directly

on the Root River

(507) 765-2460

SUNDAY: 11 - 5 PM

THURS., FRI. & SAT.: 11 AM - 8:30 PM

132 ST. ANTHONY ST. S I PRESTON, MN

404-307-3788 I TROUTCITYBREWING.COM

Complimentary

Breakfast

Open September - November

Suites,

Doubles & Singles

www.trailhead-inn.com

Business Hours

Monday - Saturday

8am-6pm

TRAILHEAD

TRAILHEAD

INN

INN

24 Spacious,



Pet-Friendly Rooms

Spacious Rooms All • New Deck on every room

Located directly Honeymoon the Root Suite!

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River Bike Trail!

The NEW

Hot Tub Room!

(507) 765-2460

Located directly

on the Root River

(507) 765-2460

Complim

Breakf

Suite

Doubles &

507-765-2250

23283 US 52

Preston, Minnesota 55965

One Mile North of Preston on Hwy 52

www.hoffmannstables.com

11 Spacious, Pet-Friendly Rooms

No-contact check-in available www.trailhead-inn.com

• Jacuzzi King, Doubles & Singles

Refrigerators and Microwaves in every room!

www.trailheadinnpreston.com


Now Open : Located inside Preston Foods

Offering:

• Lattes (Hot or Iced)

• Mochas (Hot or Iced)

• Chai Tea (Hot or Iced)

• Fruit Smoothies

• Frappes

• Cappuccino

• Americano

• Brewed Coffee and MORE!

Download

our app for

amazing deals

and our buy

10 get the 11 th

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program!

105 Fillmore Street West, Preston MN | (507) 765-2465

7am – 9pm Mon – Saturday | 8am – 7pm Sunday

Guided Trips • Flies For Area Streams • Gear • Tackle

Local Info • Fly Fishing Lessons • Waders

Kayak/Canoe rental & sales

FLY SHOP OPEN

YEAR ROUND

check website for hours

MINNESOTA’S TROUT CAPITAL

on the South Branch of The Root River!

Call or email Mel to book guided trips

melvin@minnesotaflyfishing.com • 507-327-4276 • 507-765-4915

208 St. Paul Street SW, Preston, MN

www.minnesotaflyfishing.com


BE A VBC

WINNER!

VOTE FOR


CAMPING

ESSENTIALS

Find us on

Facebook

and

Instagram

Weddings • Funerals • Prom • Everyday Occasions

235 ST PAUL ST SW, PRESTON, MN • 507.765.2214 • WWW.PRESTONFLORALANDGIFT.COM






Free Breakfast | Free Wireless Internet | 100% Non Smoking | Pet Friendly

• 40 Rooms

King and Double Queen

2 Handicap Accessible

• 6 King Suites

• Indoor pool & Hot tub

Call for reservations!

888-378-2896

Located on Hwy 52

• Local restaurants within walking distance

• Recently renovated

• Located near biking, walking, and snowmobile trails

• Close to great fishing -”Minnesota’s Trout Fishing Capital”

809 Hwy 52 North | Preston, MN 55965 | Phone: 507-765-2533 | Fax: 507-765-4450 | Reservations: 888-378-2896 | www.countrytrailsinn.com


IDE

NAPA Auto PArts

Preston Auto Parts - NAPA

Root River Hardware

6113 Spring Ave. N, Preston

507.765.2101

Hours:

Monday-Friday 8-5:30

Saturday 8-12

PRESTON, MN

8:00 - 4:30, M-F

By appt. only, Sat.

888-809-6637

More than just lumber

Specializing in custom made...

• Trim

• Paneling

• Interior Doors

1300 Energy Dr., Preston, MN

Ph: 507-765-2284

404 Airport Rd., Albert Lea, MN

Ph: 507-377-8781

Toll-Free 888-809-6637

Check out our website

for super specials

www.rootriverhardwoods.com

ALBERT LEA, MN

8:00 - 5:00 M-F

9:00 - 12 noon, Sat.

855-222-8781

• Flooring

• Stair Parts

Skip the middleman and

buy direct from the sawmill!

Golf Tour Map

On page

160

On & Off

Sale

Available!

113 Gold St. N., Wykoff, MN • 507-352-2281

Pool •Pizza

Pull Tabs•E-Tabs

Wykoff, MN

When you visit the heart of Bluff Country, take

the drive on Minnesota Highway 80 and you

will find Wykoff, a little town with a lot of

German pride.

The village was founded in 1881 by Cyrus Wykoff,

founder of the area’s railroad. Wykoff is the gateway to

Forestville State Park, and only eight miles from the Root

River Bike Trail.

Visit Ed’s Museum, a former Jack Sprat grocery store

owned by Ed Krueger, Wykoff’s historian and self

appointed collector of Wykoff memorabilia. Wykoff’s

School Museum is attached to Ed’s, a great place to reminisce

about one’s school years.

You can find unique lodging in the original 1913 City

Jail. Restored, the former jail now serves as an eye-catching

and surprisingly restful B&B, complete with all-brick

construction and bars on the windows.

On Gold Street, stroll through the Wykoff Veterans

Memorial to reflect on the many who have served our

country. Constructed in 2016, this has become an area

of great community pride.

A great time to visit Wykoff is during the Fall Fest

Celebration, which takes place every fourth weekend

in September, sponsored by the Wykoff Area Historical

Society.

114 I Wykoff, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

WYKOFF, MN

Gateway to Forestville Nearest Town State to Forestville State Park

Gas, Food, Beer, Shopping, Antiques, Fishing & Hunting

Nearest Town to Forestville State Park

License

Gas, Food, Beer, Shopping, Antiques, Fishing & Hunting License

CITY OF WYKOFF

106 North Gold Street, Wykoff

507-352-4011 • www.wykoff.govoffice2.com

WYKOFF VETERANS MEMORIAL

Open Memor

Week

Or by appo

WYKOFF JAIL HAUS INN

For reservations contact AirBnb or

call 507-352-4011

WYKOFF JAIL HAUS B & B

For Reservations Call

ED'S MUSEUM • 507-352-4205

• Open (507)696-1766 Memorial Day Or weekend (507)352-4011 until

Last weekend in September

• 11:30am to 2:30pm Sat. or by appointment

• 24 hour notice would be great!

• Freewill donation

City of Wykoff

217 North Gold Street

Wykoff, MN 55990

5073524011

http://www.wykoff.govoffice2.com/

WYKOFF FALL FEST 2023

September 21 st - 24 th

For more info call 507-352-4011

Septemb

For M

107 N Gold St

Wykoff MN, 55990

507.391.1375

bellinl@comcast.net

Nearest Town to Forestville State Park

Gas, Food, Beer, Shopping, Antiques, Fishing & Hunting

We sell antiques,

License

crafts and more!

107 N Gold St. • Wykoff, MN • 507-391-1375

Find us on

Facebook

Open Memor

Week

Or by appo

WYKOFF JAIL HAUS B & B

For Reservations Call

(507)696-1766 Or (507)352-4011

City of Wykoff

217 North Gold Street

Wykoff, MN 55990

5073524011

http://www.wykoff.govoffice2.com/

Septemb

For M

Laurie & Rick Whitney, Owners

www.visitbluffcountry.com Spring Valley, MN I 115

Pictorial Spring Valley, Minn., lies along the Historic Bluff Country

National Scenic Byway. On the western edge of Fillmore County,

this stagecoach and railroad boom town was named one of Midwest

Living’s “25 Ultimate Fall Drives.” The town has a history as rich

as the views.

An abundant number of Spring Valley sites are landmarks on the

National Register of Historic Places. Dotting the downtown, visitors

will find the elaborate 1871 Parsons Block and Hall, 1874 Commercial

House Hotel, 1877 Victorian gothic-style Ephraim Steffens House, 1879

William Strong House, and the 1904 Carnegie Library, a symbol of the

town’s early progress.

Art and culture also abound in Spring Valley. Just five miles north of

town, the 1871 Tunnel Mill has found new life. The former gristmill,

which was powered by a tunnel shortcutting a bend in the creek, is the

last surviving representative of Minnesota’s milling industry in the county.

Today, it’s home to a blacksmith shop and traditional iron works that

offers a variety of metal working classes, character-laden gypsy wagons,

occasional special event tours of area iron ore mines, and camping, even

in the wagons. Each fall, the mill hosts a gathering, featuring various

art and metal displays and demonstrations, as well as a wine and cheese

social.

The Brave Community Theatre and Braveheart Theatre, in production

for more than 40 years, is proud to be one of the oldest self-supporting

community theatres in Minnesota. The troupe highlights comedy,

drama, musical, and original productions, as well as Theatre for Kids.

Likely the most recognized historical draw in Spring Valley are the

Laura Ingalls Wilder sites and museum, housed in the Spring Valley

Historical Society Museum in the former Methodist church attended


www.GoodEarthVillage.org I 507.346.2494

Faith-Based Summer Camps I Facility Rentals I Year Round

“Our campers

understand what

it means to be

a community

— how to work

together to love

others.”

W I N E R Y C I D E R Y D I S T I L L E R Y E V E N T C E N T E R R E S T A U R A N T

FOUR DAUGHTERS

VINEYARD & WINERY

LOON JUICE

THE TRADITIONALIST

MINNESOTA'S LARGEST

WINERY

NAMED THE #2 WINERY

RESTAURANT BY USA TODAY

www.FourDaughtersVineyard.com.

NAMED " WORLD'S GREATEST CIDER"

OFFICIAL HARD CIDER OF

MINNESOTA UNITED FC

www.LoonJuice.com.

BARREL AGED BOURBON

DISTILLED AND BARREL-

AGED ON-SITE FROM LOCAL

CORN. FLIGHTS AND FULL

COCKTAIL MENU AVAILABLE

116 I Spring Valley, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country


by the Wilder family in the 1890s. The collection encompasses a vast

amount, including personal mementos of the family’s life. Displays of

various inventors and business people who lived in Spring Valley are also

on hand, including Richard Sears, of Sears & Roebuck fame; Bernard

Pietenpol, the father of experimental aircraft, Dr. Henry Plummer,

founder of Mayo Clinic; and more. Adjacent to the museum is the 1866

Washburn-Zittleman House Museum, featuring 12 exhibit areas, an ag

complex, and History Hall.

Looking for the excitement of speed? Just outside of town, you’ll find

a fantastic speedway, covering more than 60 acres. A state-of-the-art

racing complex, it showcases an average of 30 events a year, some of

the biggest in the country, the speedway thrills with racing on its high

banked, dirt/clay track. Other amenities include 24 VIP suites, 36 VIP

decks, total seating capacity up to 8,000, slingshot track dubbed “Button

Buck Speedway” for younger racers, and a full-service campground.

Other lodging accommodation choices include a motel, cabins and a

500-acre village retreat containing a collection of winterized cabins and

themed areas ideal for gatherings. Dining and shopping options are as

varied as the rest of the town’s conveniences, like scrumptious bakery

treats, saloons, the town-favorite pizza place, and a popular drive-in,

complete with car hops and service with a smile.

You can enjoy bowling or visit South Park, which features a solarheated

swimming pool, picnic area with shelters, playground, basketball,

tennis and volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, and ball fields. Willow Park,

in the heart of downtown, boasts the Spring Valley Walking Trail and

Spring Creek. The trail offers 2.58 miles of walking, snowshoeing, crosscountry

skiing, or snowmobiling and the stream is prime trout water. It

plays host to portions of the town’s big August celebration, Ag Days.

ROOT RIVER ANTIQUE HISTORICAL POWER SHOW

Spring Valley, MN

July 14, 15 & 16, 2023

Members dedicated

to teaching and

preserving the past

OPEN DAILY

7:00AM - 9:00PM

41 st

ANNUAL

Events for the

entire family!

Fun Filled Weekend

FEATURING

• MM, TC, MTM, MPC

• Tractors & Equipment

• Hit and Miss Engines

Lots of tractors - All branding

All exhibitors welcome

Contact Les: 507-254-0622

WWW.ROOTRIVERSHOW.ORG

FULL

SERVICE

GROCERY

STORE

501 N. Park Drive, Spring Valley, MN

507-346-2804 • www.sunshinefoodstores.com

Wine Beer Liquor Ice

507-346-2579 • 800-660-MEAT

17643 121st Ave. • 4.5 miles South of Spring Valley off Hwy 63

Hours:

Monday-Friday: 7-5:30

Saturday: 8-3

Closed Sundays

Green Mountain

Grills & Smoker

Pellets

Next to Sunshine Foods

Spring Valley, MN

507-346-1979

EBT Customers Welcome

www.odyscountrymeats.com

Check us out at www.tjsliquor.com


Visit The Valley

Spring Valley, MN

Things to do

Local Museums

Washburn Zittleman House Exhibit & 1876 Historic Methodist Church Museum.

Almanzo and Laura Ingalls Wilder attended this church in 1890-91. Now on the

National Historic Register. Two floors of exhibits include: Wilder photo display, Conley

camera collection, Richard Sears exhibit and more from that era. See an original

Pietenpol Aircamper at the Ag Building. 507-346-7659, 220-221 West Courtland.

www.springvalleymnmuseum.org

Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park

One of Minnesota’s finest parks. Home to 13-mile long Mystery Cave and the

pioneer town of Forestville, the park is rich in both history and natural resources,

trout streams, hiking, picnicking, camping or horseback riding. Historic Forestville

is an 1850s village that was a part of the founding of SE Minn.

507-352-5111 • 507-937-3251 • www.mnhs.org/places/sites/hf/

Good Earth Village

Good Earth Village offers many day experiences & training events, summer youth

camping, family programs, campground & year-round retreating. 507-346-2494

info@goodearthvillage.org

South Park & Spring Valley Pool

Enjoy local recreation. Includes 3-12 ft. swimming pool and zero degree entry baby

pool, playground equipment, picnic pavilions, 2 ball diamonds, 2 tennis courts,

basketball, sand volleyball. Located on Hwy 63 and Co. Rd. 12.

Walking/Biking Trail/Spring Creek Trout Stream

Spring Valley has a paved walking trail and trout stream that runs through the

heart of the town. springvalley-mn.com S&S Bait Shop can help with all your bait,

tackle and licenses.

Deer Creek Speedway

Check 2023 schedule on www.deercreekspeedway.com


Modern Wine & Feel. The winery features brick oven pizzas and more.

fourdaughtersvineyard.com • 507-346-7300

Stellar 181 Taphouse

Featuring all local beers, wines and liquors from Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin.

You’ve never had bar food like this before. Find current specials on Facebook.

Hop & Barrel Brewery

Find Your Hoppy Place! We are a 2bbl craft brewery. Offering a constantly rotating

Community Calendar

tap list, while growing a mixed culture sour program. hopandbarrelbrewing.com

Looking to move, visit

or start a business in

Spring Valley?

Community Calendar

201 S. Broadway • 507-346-7367 • springvalleyeda.org/calendar


Visit The Valley

Spring Valley, MN

EVENTS

May 20 - SV 100 Gravel Bike Race

Replacing the Almanzo 100, this 100-mile bike race starts Downtown Spring Valley

and ends at Willow Park. Activities will take place afterwards downtown and include

music, craft beer, food, games for the kids & other events.

June 21 - Wednesdays on Broadway (Jun-Oct)

The third Wednesday of each month, (through October) is home to Wednesdays on

Broadway, Spring Valley’s Summer Market...with that Block Party Feel! This free to

attend event features a farmers market, local and area vendors, live music, food,

drinks and fun activities for the entire family!

July 14-16 - 41 st Root River Antique Show

Featuring Oliver Tractors and equipment, Classic Cars http://rootrivershow.org

July 14-15 - Fins & Film / RM Cratebox Derby

Car Show, Bikes, Pinups, Grass Drags, Burnouts, Cratebox Derby, Drive-in Movie, Live

Music and much more. For more info check out Fins and Films Facebook page.

August 15-20 - Ag Days

Spring Valley farmers played an essential role in developing area land into

Minnesota’s most important industry. We celebrate their efforts during Ag Days

with fun for the whole family, including A&W Cruise Night, Bands Thurs, Fri &

Sat, 3 on 3 contest, Grand Parade, Little Huskers 1K race, Street Dance, Food,

Fireworks, Tractor Show, Tractor Pull, Cocktail Contest, Mr & Mrs Ag Days Contest,

Bean Bag Tournament, Fishing Contest, Brave Community Theatre Play & more.

springvalleychamberofcommerce.com

Dec. 9 - Christmas on Historic Broadway

Supper with Santa, children’s play, bake sale, cookie decorating and a craft show

followed by a light parade in the evening. Family fun for everyone!

Lodging

America’s Best Value Inn & Suites

1-888-254-6835 www.springvalleyinnsuites.com. Located on a National Scenic

Byway, Spring Valley Inn and Suites is just 27 miles from Rochester and the Mayo

Clinic- close enough to be convenient, but far enough away to offer guests the charm

of a small town.

Overnight Camper Parking

Located by bike trail and trout stream, past trout farm on Cty. Rd. 8. Thiteen sites

including electric. 507-346-7367

Deer Creek Speedway and Campground

Late Model, Super Stocks, Midwest Mods and Street Stocks race every Saturday

night on the high banked 3/8 dirt oval track, located west of Spring Valley on

U.S. Hwy 63. Visit www.deercreekspeedway.com for the 2023 schedule.

For camping call 507-346-2342.

201

S. Broadway • 507-346-7367

springvalleyeda.org/calendar

Community Calendar


Feb

18

25

Mar

18

MAY

13

20

24-27

june

7

9

11

16

21

23

30

Community Sledding Party at

Valley Christian Center

Winter Market

& Sledding Party

Community Sledding Party at


Citywide

Garage Sales

Spring Valley 100

Gravel Bike Race

USMTS Southern MN Spring

Challenge at Deer Creek Spdwy

Spring Valley Public

Swimming Pool Opens (Tent)

Music in the Park –

Presented by SV Tourism

Praise in the Park Concert –




Wednesdays

on Broadway





Calendar

of Events

July

6-8

14-16

14-15

15

16

19

AUG

11

15-20

16

26-27

NAPA Auto Parts Gopher 50

at Deer Creek Speedway

41st Root River Antique

Historical Power Show

7th Annual Fins & Films

Festival

Ron Merkel

Cratebox Derby

Praise in the Park Concert –


Wednesdays

on Broadway

Family Fun Night – Valley

Christian Center

Spring Valley

Ag Days -

Wednesdays

on Broadway

GoodStock

at Good Earth Village

Like and follow us on Facebook at

Discover Spring Valley, MN

201 S. Broadway

‘23

SEPT

9

20

20-23

OCT

18

NOV

16

18

26

DEC

9

• 507-346-7367

Citywide

Garage Sales

Wednesdays

on Broadway

Featherlite Fall Jamboree

at Deer Creek Speedway

Wednesdays

on Broadway

Spring Valley Area Community

Foundation “Give to the Max”

Holiday Girls

Night Out

Love Lights a Tree

Christmas on Historic

Broadway

Community Calendar


Spring Valley Join us August 15-20

Minnesota

Your Community that supports Business

and Community Livability and Vitality!

in Spring Valley

for AG Days!

Community Theatre, Dance,

Cruise Night, Parade, & More

Join us December 9

in Spring Valley

for Christmas on

Historic Broadway

www.springvalleychamberofcommerce.com

Visit The Valley

Community Calendar

Spring Valley, MN

Scan the QR code

to find out what’s

happening in our community

201 S. Broadway

507-346-7367

springvalleyeda.org/calendar

NEW CONSTRUCTION

$3,000 HOUSING INCENTIVE

Business Incentives available through the EDA,

including opportunities in the

expanded industrial park.

Details on our website or call

EDA Director: Chris Hahn: 612-327-9729

www.springvalleyeda.org

Community Calendar

This institution is an equal

opportunity provider



Voted

& Best Fish Fry

Best Sports Bar

Offsite bartending services available

Find us on Facebook

BOOK

TODAY!

• Attached private outdoor patio

• Large dressing room-private area

• Men’s and Women’s ADA compliant bathrooms

• Ample parking

• Caterer kitchen - no food may be prepared on site

Includes refrigerator space, stainless steel shelving and tables, and handwashing sink

• Stage area for a band/DJ

• Built-in bar area

• Banquet tables, round tables

• 200 stacking chairs

507.259.3557

www.fivewyndsevents.com

1047 N. BROADWAY AVE. SPRING VALLEY

Mon.- Sat. 11am-1am • Sun. 8am-Midnight

Sunday Breakfast Specials!

All Friday you can Fish

eat

Fish Fry Fry Dinner

Friday

$14.95 $11.95 $12.95 • 5-9pm

Price is subject to change

Like us on Facebook!

507-346-1322

www.racksbarandgrill.com

1027 N Broadway Ave, Spring Valley, MN

LeRoy, MN

LeRoy is known as the western gateway to Historic Bluff Country.

A progressive community, in addition to its proximity to Lake

Louise State Park’s recreation, LeRoy boasts an indoor swimming

pool, bowling alley, two city parks with picnic shelters and playgrounds,

ball diamonds, basketball courts and more. It is home to two buildings

on the National Register of Historic Places - a prairie-style bank

designed by Purcell and Elmslie, students of Louis Sullivan, and the

public library building, the only example of the small-town Carnegietype

Classical Revival style library building left intact in Mower County.

Lake Louise State Park, located approximately 1.5 miles north of

LeRoy on County Road 14, lures hikers, bikers, horseback riders, skiers,

and snowmobilers to its trails, which wind through open landscapes and

lush hardwoods. A colony of Allium cernum, also known as nodding

wild onion, can be found in the park. This is a Minnesota threatened

species. The nodding wild onion blooms in the spring, along with

purple-fringed orchid, woodland prairie flowers. The confluence of the

Little Iowa and Upper Iowa Rivers that occurs in the state park provides

ample water recreation for swimmers, boaters, and fishermen. The lakeside

picnic grounds and beach area draw many visitors in the summer.

The Shooting Star State Trail begins in the city of LeRoy in Mower

County and travels north through Lake Louise State Park. It then heads

west along Highway 56, which is also known as the Shooting Star &

Historic Route Scenic Byway. The trail goes through Taopi, Adams,

Rose Creek, and heads toward Austin, allowing trail users to experience

a rural landscape.

VOTE FOR THE

Stroll through our 2 acres of display gardens and visit our gift store.

The Area’s Largest

Selection of Annuals,

Perennials, Trees & Shrubs!

BE A VBC

WINNER!


LIFETIME

HYDROS KAYAK





Call today for a free

laNdSCaPe eStimate

507-561-3785

Hwy 63 N., Chester, IA. • 2 miles North of Chester on Hwy 63 Find us on

Hours Open: Mon-Sat 9:00am-5:30pm • Sun 11:00am-4:00pm Facebook

E: toddi@treehouselandscaping.com • W: www.treehouselandscaping.com

www.visitbluffcountry.com LeRoy, MN I 123

Minnesota's Largest Country

Clipper Dealer

Charger Boss XL

All New Charger & Boss XL

All New!

• ContourDTS TM for Exceptional Comfort, Traction & Quality of Cut

• Choose between Joystick or Twin Lever Control

• Stand-Up Deck for Easy Maintenance

• Powered by Dependable Kawasaki Engines

• Equipped with Hydro-Gear Transaxles

Charger

52” & 60” Decks

Deluxe Suspension Seat

Float Fuel Gauge

5 Yr, 1000 Hr Warranty

Preseason

discounts on all

2023 models

Your Local Dealer:

harringtonenterprisesmn.com

CountryClipper.com

Boss XL

60” & 72” Decks

26” Drive Tires

Premium Suspension Seat

Electronic Fuel Gauge

5 Yr, 1200 Hr Warranty

Chad, Camri & Carter Harrington

11532 US Hwy. 63 • LeRoy, MN

HOURS:

Mon. - Fri. 8-5

Sat. 8-12

Truckload

discounts on

all in stock

inventory.

Chad, Camri & Carter Harrington

Phone: 507-561-2282

M-F 8-5 • Sat. 8-12 | harringtonenterprisesmn.com

11 miles South of Spring Valley on Hwy 63

Prairie Visions

Shooting Star Scenic Byway & Shooting Star Regional Trail

Check out businesses in the

Prairie Visions Communities

Shooting Star Scenic Byway

20 miles oF gArAge sAles Along

the shooting stAr sCeniC bywAy

Prairie Visions

for Dining, Recreation, Gas & Convenience,

Hardware, Groceries, Lodging, Antiques, Gifts

& More!

Prairie Visions Community Events

June 8 & 9, 2018 leroy to rose Creek

DAIRY DAYS IN ADAMS

June 9-11, 2023

ROSE CREEK DAYS

July 7-9, 2023

LEROY SUMMERFEST

July 14-16, 2023

lake louise state Park

www.visitleroy.com/lakelouise.html

Trails for:

• Hiking

• Biking

• Horseback Riding

• Skiing

• Snowmobiling

2018 scheduled Programs

Campground: Opens Memorial Day Weekend

Open House: Saturday, June 9, 2018

Candlelight Walk: 5:30-8:00pm • Oct. 7, 2018

Shooting Star Scenic Byway & Shooting Star Regional Trail

Water recreation includes:

• Swimming

• Boating / Canoeing

• Fishing

• Shaded picnic grounds

Annual

20 th

Prairie Visions Presents

shooting star trail bike ride

saturday, June 23, 2018

Austin’s todd Park is the starting point

Check out businesses in the

Prairie Visions Communities

for dining, recreation, gas & Convenience,

hardware, groceries, lodging, Antiques,

gifts & more!

Prairie Visions Community Events

AdAms 150 th yeAr CelebrAtion

(sesquiCentenniAl)

June 8, 9, & 10, 2018

rose Creek dAys

July 13, 14, & 15, 2018

leroy summer-Fest

July 20, 21, & 22, 2018

Lime Springs, IA

Located along Hwy. 63, just five miles south of the

Minnesota border, Lime Springs is the “Best Town

by a Dam Site”!

If you’ve never been to Lime Springs or if you are an

old friend, plan to visit during Sweet Corn Days, the second

full weekend in August. A fantastic parade, music,

plus special treats of FREE sweet corn and watermelon

on Sunday will delight!

If you can’t make if for the big celebration, there is

still plenty to enjoy on any given Sunday, or Saturday or

weekday! During the summer, the municipal pool is open

seven days a week, with the ball park, volleyball park and

playground adjacent.

One mile north is an outdoor dream, with the updated

Lidtke Park and all its amenities, the Upper Iowa River

for fishing and other water fun, and on most weekends

(or by appointment), a person can tour Lidtke Mill, the

most authentic old-time mill around.

Come for a day, or stay for a lifetime in Lime Springs.

124 I Lime Springs, IA A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Come see what Lime Springs has to offer!

Johnson Comfort

Systems, Inc.

“The Geothermal Experts”

LIDTKE MILL

- National Historic Site -

CRESCO

111 N. Elm St. 563-547-2040

RIDGEWAY

410 St. Hwy. 9 563-737-2239

LIME SPRINGS

132 W. Main St. 563-566-2215

Offices also located in Osage and Charles City.

www.cusb.com

More than 1,320 successful installations!

Geothermal heating & cooling

Uponor Radiant Floor Heat

107 Center Street

Lime Springs, IA 52155

563-566-2346

www.johnsongeothermal.com

1 mile north of Lime Springs, IA on Upper Iowa River

Adults: $5.00 • Students: $3.00 • 5 & Under Free

319-240-6059 OR 319-929-5572

Special times for tours may be arranged

June 10, 2023 - Buckwheat & Buttermilk

Pancake Breakfast

October 14, 2023 Harvest Fest - Soup

Supper with Ghost Tour at The Lidtke Mill

Lidtke Park • Total Camping Facility

OPEN SATURDAY & SUNDAY

1-4 pm Memorial Day through Labor Day

(or by special appointment - school tours available)

Riceville, IA

Riceville, Iowa, is a community of roughly 900 and a dual

county town, partly located in Mitchell County and partly

in Howard County. The town’s northeast Iowa location is

strongly centered around the area’s rural economy. The many Amish

and Mennonite families that reside in the area add to the area’s rural

charm.

Riceville offers a lot for people to see and do. Riceville’s public

library is home to five of the Brown Opera House stage curtains,

which are full size vaudeville curtains painted as scenery and as

advertisements. Several thousand dollars were put to use to restore

the curtains in 1980 after their use in the early 1900s. Now they are a

popular area attraction.

More fun is waiting at nearby Lake Hendricks, an ideal place for

many activities such as camping, swimming, fishing, and even just

relaxing in the great outdoors. In close proximity are recreational

trails, an added feature of the area. Visitors have access to one of the

more than 200 campsites, playground equipment and picnic shelters

that are all overseen by a full-time park attendant.

The 18-mile Wapsi-Great Western Line Trail connects Iowa and

Minnesota and also runs through Riceville, winding through the

Lake Hendricks Park. Anyone traveling the trail will find the beauty

of wildflowers, prairie grasses and a butterfly garden.

Riceville is also a well-established community. The K-12 school

system, businesses in a variety of different industries, recreational

opportunities, and health care services all help make Riceville a great

town in which to live.

For all your healthcare needs,

call the Lime Springs Medical Clinic

Staci Vrzak, ARNP

Tracey Schlangen, ARNP

563-566-2243

or toll free: 800-593-5463

Monday 7am-3m | Tuesday 7am-noon | Wednesday 9am-4pm

Thursday 7am-noon | Friday 7am-noon

101 West Main St • Lime Springs, IA • www.rhshc.com

www.visitbluffcountry.com Riceville, IA I 125

5295 70th Street • Riceville, Iowa 50466

Frisky Fox Vineyard

is a family owned and

operated vineyard &

winery located on a

farm near Riceville,

Iowa. We decided to

start the vineyard and

to pursue plans for the winery shortly after a tornado struck

the family farm on May 22 nd , 2011. Our main focus is to

produce quality wine for our customers to enjoy.

507-951-9024 | info@friskyfoxvineyard.com | www.friskyfoxvineyard.com

Cresco, IA

Located in northeast Iowa, Cresco offers landscape

designed for all four seasons and a variety of activities

to engage all participants. Tour the Boyhood

Farm and Birthplace of Dr. Norman Borlaug and see why

this gentle man is only one of seven people in the world

to ever be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, the Congressional

Gold Medal, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Dr. Borlaug is credited with saving millions of lives

by developing a hybrid of wheat that could be grown in

places that previously could not do so.

A must-see is the Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame. Located

in the Cresco Welcome Center, it is the only museum

dedicated to Iowa-born natives who have contributed

to amateur wrestling. See Dan Gable, Gold Medalist of

the 1972 Olympics, and many others as you learn about

Iowa’s proud sport of wrestling. An added bonus is the

IWHOF 40-foot mural dedicated to wrestling in Cresco

and Iowa.

The Prairie Springs Recreation Trail (PSRT) is a 3-mile

paved trail, accessed at Balk Park, to Vernon Springs,

winding along the Prairie’s Edge Nature Center next to

the Turkey River. Along the trail are benches and picnic

tables, and the glorious displays of nature can be seen the

entire length of this. Connecting to the Prairie Farmer

Trail, this paved 22-mile experience traverses through an


LIVE SHOWS • EVENTS • WEEKLY MOVIES

Historic theatre with current amenities

115 2ND AVE W., CRESCO IA

563-547-1066

Available to rent for private &

public events

Thank you for your support!

1915-2023

Years

...AND COUNTING!

126 I Cresco, IA A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Great Service • Great Selection • Great Price

GARDEN CENTER

In Monona & Decorah Locations Only

SERVICES:

Behavioral Health • Community Health • Retail Pharmacy

Cresco Medical Clinic • Elma Medical Clinic

Lime Springs Medical Clinic • Hospital Services

Cancer Care • Orthopedic Services • Senior Life Solutions

Hospice & Home Health • Wound Clinic • OB Services

Working Together For The Health Of Our Community

235 8th Ave West • Cresco, IA

563-547-2101 • www.rhshc.com

Tools - Paint - Hardware - Plumbing

Electrical - Clothing - Sporting Goods

Toys - Lawn & Garden

Monona

563-539-2405

Open 7 Days a Week

www.fiskfarmandhome.com

Decorah

563-382-8822

Cresco

563-547-2492

www.visitbluffcountry.com Cresco, IA I 127


old railroad bed.

The first fitness trail in Iowa possesses outdoor fitness

equipment placed along the PSRT, offering a workout for

all ages. Enjoy a run/walk and workout all along the trail,

because this scenic experience now adds a challenge to

all fitness levels! The innovative fish ladder at Rock Arch

Rapids replaced a 150-year-old spill-water dam, reconnecting

hundreds of miles of river habitat. Over 280 feet

of pools and rapids showcase this stunning area at the

end of the PSRT.

Cresco is home to the world’s first stewardess. Ellen

Church made many contributions to aviation; one of

them was to devise a pilot program to bring nurses on

board the newly proposed “passenger plane” in the 1930s.

Convincing the airlines that nurses on board would

instill confidence in their passengers, they allowed Ellen

to go forward with her program. It became such a success

that the first “air hostess” was born, which has now

evolved into the “flight attendant.”

Cresco is dotted with over 50 sculptures of children

featured outside of historic buildings and landscapes.

This is a great walking tour that residents and visitors

alike enjoy all year round.

Freedom Rock #68 is found in Cresco. It features granite

showcasing a timeline of innovations and inventions

during the nation’s wars and conflicts.

Visit us at www.howard-county.com for more information

on the rich heritage and history of the Cresco area.

A PLACE FOR ALL AGES

Daily aDmissions:

•Adult $8.00

•Student $5.00

Pool • Hot Tub •

Fitness Equipment

• Track, Basketball/

Volleyball Courts •

Wrestling/Aerobics

Rooms • Batting Cage

• Golf/ Dodgeball Area •

Meetings • Party Rooms

FaCility Hours:

Monday - Thursday: 5 am - 9 pm

Friday: 5 am - 9 pm

(7 p.m. Memorial Weekend - October)

Saturday: 9 am - 6 pm


Sunday: 1 pm - 6 pm

open swimming Hours:

Monday - Friday: 4 - 7 pm

Saturday: 10 am - 6 pm


Sunday: 1 pm - 6 pm

No School Days & Summer: Pool Also Open 1 - 4 pm

CresCo Fitness Center

316 3rd Avenue East • Cresco, Iowa • Phone: 563-547-3443

fitnesscenter@cityofcresco.com

www.cityofcresco.com

ALL ALUMINUM PRODUCTS. BUILT CONTRACTOR TOUGH...

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When you compare strength,

features and cost, Alum-Line is your

best investment for the long haul.

PO Box 59 • Cresco, Iowa 52136

800-446-1407

www.alumline.com • alumline@alumline.com

Charles City, IA

Experience the rich art, history and community spirit

that Charles City, Iowa, has to offer!

Charles City has a list of titles, as a Main Street

Iowa Community, an Iowa Great Place, a STAR Community

and more. The city is one of Iowa’s eight original Cultural &

Entertainment Districts, featuring the art deco Charles Theatre

and the Carnegie Library, now known as the Charles City

Arts Center. More artwork from local regional and national

artists can be seen on the Public Art walking tour, while the

Mooney Collection showcases pieces created by Rembrandt,

Picasso, Grant Wood and Salvador Dali.

The community is the birthplace of the gasoline-powered

tractor and the girlhood home of suffragette Carrie Lane

Chapman Catt, who is today considered a prominent historical

figure in the context of women’s rights. Iowa’s first whitewater

park and kayak course is located on the Cedar River in

downtown Charles City, along with adjacent Riverfront Park.

Join in on the fun for a year-round calendar of events,

including summer favorites such as Party in the Park, Whitewater

Weekend and the July 4th Celebration. Charles City

residents are always ready to roll out the welcome mat for visitors!

Visit our website at www.charlescitychamber.com, find us

on Facebook ChuckTown: Charles City, Iowa or follow us on

Twitter @CharlesCityIA to stay up to date with all the latest

information. We welcome you to visit any time of year!

128 I Charles City, IA A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Elkader, IA

Home Decor • Gifts • Accessories

Personalized Engraving •

Spacious Shopping • Hallmark Gold Crown

Worth the Trip Every Time!

413 N Main St • Charles City, IA 50616

641-228-2657 • TheRusticCorner.com

Elkader - a charming town nestled in Bluff Country.

It’s ideal for a relaxing getaway full of FUN,

shopping, restaurants, entertainment and lodging!

Elkader was founded in 1846, and named after

the Algerian leader Abd el Kader. A historic Keystone

Bridge crosses the beautiful Turkey River, where fishing

and floating awaits you. The walking trails are peaceful

and full of nature’s stunning views all year. Beautiful

scenery and historic buildings are the backdrop for the

downtown business district. Elkader’s downtown, a “Cultural

& Entertainment District,” is home to many unique

businesses including a three story antique/consignment

mall, a bakery, spa/salons, a bridal boutique, coffee/tea

shops and a unique assortment of specialty shops. You

will enjoy finding that “just right” gift.

After hours of shopping, enjoy one of Elkader’s dining

experiences: Algerian, Irish, and American cuisine as

well as local wines and beers. Entertainment is plentiful

– visit our 1903 Opera House, a 3-D movie theater

updated with recliner seating, three museums, or plenty

of outdoor recreation. No matter what your interests are,

Elkader has something that will interest you. We hope

you will stay overnight at a B&B, or at one of the two

campgrounds. There’s just so much Elkader has to offer!

It is the “BEST KEPT SECRET” in Bluff Country!

Enjoy Elkader - it’ll take you by surprise. Planning a visit

– go to www.elkader-iowa.com.

www.visitbluffcountry.com Elkader, IA I 129

The Elkader Campground

Welcome to scenic Elkader in

Beautiful Northeast Iowa!

FULL MENU ALL DAY • FULL BAR

105 1st Street NW • Elkader, IA • 563-245-FOOD(3663)

Check out our website for specials, and pub updates.

www.fennellysirishpub.com

ELKADER GENERAL

STORE & MORE

107 N. Main Elkader, IA

563-245-1799

Mon-Fri

9am-5pm

Saturday

9am-3pm

Daily lunches served Monday - Friday

Bulk Candy & Foods, Edgewood Locker Meats,

Rada Knives, Kitchen Gadgets, Bulk Spices,

Watkins Products, Dip & Bread Mixes, Stash Tea,

Coffee Beans, Gift Baskets & More.

Like us on Facebook.com/GeneralStoreAndMore

• Shower

Facilities

• Firewood

• Electrical

& Water

Hookups

• Swimming

Pool

• Walking

Trail to

Downtown

• 9 Hole Disc

Golf Course

REASONABLE RATES

Shopping, restaurants,

golf course and other

area attractions!!

NO RESERVATIONS

NEEDED/TAKEN

CALL 563-245-2098

Located along the Hwy. 13

bypass on the SE side of Elkader

563-245-2098 | www.elkader-iowa.com

14,000 SQ. FT. OF UNIQUE SHOPPING

ANTIQUES • GIFTS

COLLECTIBLES

ROCKS • MINERALS

FOSSILS

Something For Everyone!

Open

Monday - Saturday

9:30 am - 4:30 pm

Sunday 12 pm -4pm

Closed Easter, Thanksgiving

& Christmas Days

TURKEY RIVER MALL

563-245-3995 102 S Main St., Elkader, IA

turkeyrivermallelkader.com

130 I Iowa Map A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

www.visitbluffcountry.com Iowa Map I 131

132 I Elkader, IA A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Come get GEARed up

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CONTACT US :

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563-245-2521

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CALL FOR DETAILS

EXTENDED STAY SUITES

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Clermont, IA

A M A Z I N G A L G E R I A N & A M E R I C A N F O O D

• Seasonal Patio Dining

• Appetizers

• Entrees

• Sandwiches

• Salads

• Desserts

• Vegetarian & Vegan

• Gluten-free Options

• Signature Cocktails

• Craft Beer

• Natural Wine

C O M E

T R Y O U R

F A L A F E L !

Clermont, located in the beautiful hills of northeast

Iowa, is a small town located in the valley on the

banks of the Turkey River. Its most popular attractions

include the Clermont Museum, Heritage Farm Park,

Lincoln Park, the Larabee Building, and the Montauk

Historic Site.

The Turkey River flows through the town and is utilized

for activities such as canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and fishing.

Bike trails offer the chance for bikers, joggers, walkers,

and bird watchers to fully enjoy the lush countryside. In

winter, cross-country skiers and snow shoers get a chance

to trek the trail, and this is also a prime place to enjoy the

outdoors on a vast, expansive network of snowmobile trails.

Hunting draws outdoor sportsmen to the surrounding

wooded areas as they take their shot at the perfect whitetail

deer or wild turkey. Not only is nature good for taking your

best hunting shot, but photographers come to capture the

wildlife, too.

Practice your golf game, then enjoy a delicious meal in

Clermont before relaxing at the campground or historic inn

or B&B.

Founded in 1949, Clermont has become a historic town

with eight listings on the National Register of Historic

Places. You can find more information on our website:

www.clermontia.org and on Facebook.

www.visitbluffcountry.com Hawkeye, IA I 133

MONTAUK

HISTORIC SITE

Tour the historic home of Iowa’s

12th governor, William Larrabee

and his wife Anna Larrabee

26223 Harding Road

Clermont, Iowa 52135

563.423.7173

iowahistory.org

Open Daily, 12–4 p.m. Open Fri.–Sun., 12–4 p.m.

Memorial Day Weekend–Labor Day Labor Day–Oct. 31

Hawkeye is a vibrant destination where families and businesses

are central to the growth of our community. In the heart of the

Upper Midwest, Hawkeye is just south of State Hwy. 18, and a

few miles north of U.S. Hwy. 20 and east of U.S. Hwy. 63. The Mississippi

River is 50 miles to the east. Ten miles east is the George L. Scott

Municipal Airport, in West Union.

Visitors to Hawkeye may notice the natural resource-based economy

active within the area. From the large agricultural co-op, to the wind

farm, to the popular retail garden nursery, to the growing local food

businesses, Hawkeye embraces its natural environment for long term

resiliency.

Outdoor green space is important to the community. Hauth Park

covers over seven acres and includes a walking trail, shelters, tennis

courts, and a ball field. In the winter, the tennis courts are transformed

into an ice skating rink, complete with a warming house. City Park, on

Main Street, includes playground equipment and a gazebo. A few miles

north, the 64-acre Gouldsburg Park is where the Little Turkey River and

Crane Creek meet, offering opportunities for fishing, tubing and canoeing.

This park’s campground is complete with a dump station, showers,

flush toilets and 26 electrical hook-up sites. Also nearby is the Thelman

Wildlife Area, just north of Hwy. 18. This is a 300-acre public hunting

area featuring native grass plantings, a wetland, timber and crop ground

for wildlife to prosper. Many visitors to Gouldsburg and Thelman find

Hawkeye a convenient place for shopping, dining and fuel.

Hawkeye Fun Days in June draws hundreds of visitors to Hawkeye

for a weekend of organized activities. The Hurd Museum is located in

Hawkeye and houses a large collection of Hawkeye and farming memorabilia.

www.kkgardens.com

Iowa's #1

Destination Garden Center

50 mins north of Waterloo

30 mins south of Decorah

Decorah

Offering over 40,000 plants!

K&K Gardens

Waterloo

108 E. Wilbur St, Hawkeye, Iowa • 563.427.5373 • Open daily May - September

134 I Highlandville, IA A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

You will still be close to home but feel like

you are a million miles away from it all!

9 fully

furnished

cabins

available

for rent year

round!

January-March

Special Stay 3

nights for the

price of 2!

Our duplex is now available for rent!

The North Bear and South Bear can be rented one half at a time or

you can rent the entire cabin for larger gatherings. You can find

everything you need at the Highland General Store during your

stay! So pack your bags and leave your worries behind.

We are social distancing at it's finest!

Call for reservations between 8am & 7pm

3497 Highlandville Road | Highlandville, Iowa 52149

563-546-7722 | info@bearcreekcabinsia.com | www.bearcreekcabinsia.com

Located

on the #1

trout

stream in

Iowa

Bluffton, IA

Highlandville is an unincorporated community in

northeastern Winneshiek County. It lies along local

roads 13 miles northeast of the city of Decorah. Highlandville’s

population is only around 35, but it boasts

plenty of beds for lodging and a store that supplies many

campers, fishermen and hunters in the area.

Many fishermen say the North and South Bear Creeks

offer the best trout fishing in Iowa, and the streams do

not freeze in winter. It is a hidden paradise in which to

hike, bike, enjoy nature or get together with a church

group.

VOTE FOR THE

BE A VBC

WINNER!


LIFETIME

HYDROS KAYAK





Avisit to Bluffton, Iowa, will provide all the rest and

relaxation needed for a getaway. Here you’ll enjoy

great fishing on Coldwater Creek and the Upper

Iowa River, which also is a great place for kayaking and

canoeing. Campsites are available right on the river;

canoes and kayaks are available for rent.

Coldwater Cave State Preserve is just four miles northwest

of Bluffton; a 60-acre parcel state preserve protecting

a spring that begins in Cold Water Cave. This cave is

located under farmland, with a trail available for visitors.

However, the entrance to the cave is gated closed.

Beautiful campground nestled in the

bluffs along the Upper Iowa River

• Bar and grill

• NEW 30 amp electrical sites waterfront

• 50 amp sites as well as full hook

upsites now available

• Canoe and kayak rentals with

shuttle services available

facebook/blufftoncampgroundandbar | Bluffton, IA 563-735-5738

www.visitbluffcountry.com Burr Oak, IA I 135

Burr Oak, a little town on Highway 52, is known to

most people as Laura Ingalls Wilder’s childhood

home. The town invites you to learn about the

birth of Grace here, and the places where Laura grew and

developed her love of books and words — where stories

flowed from the tombstones of Burr Oak pioneers in the

cemetery where Laura and her friend Alice found solace

in the quiet of summer afternoons on the hill by the

Advent Church.

Burr Oak invites you to come and see the view from

the hotel that Pa managed while the Ingalls family lived

and worked here -- the view of Silver Creek that still

flows as it did when the Ingalls girls waded in it. Little

imagination is needed to see Laura’s footprints all around

Burr Oak, mixed with those of the people who have come

to see the places that helped to grow America’s gem of

literature and history. The hotel is the only childhood

home of Laura still on its original site.

At the Burr Oak museum you’ll enjoy seeing Laura’s

historic home, the beautiful area and all of the attractions

of this state line area.

Send us your photos

for a chance to win

a $25 gift card!


3607 236 th Ave, Burr Oak, IA

563-735-5900

CHECK US OUT ON FACEBOOK FOR EVENTS

AND LIVE MUSIC UPDATES!

Laura Ingalls Wilder

Park and Museum

JUNE 24, 2023 • LAURA DAY CELEBRATION!

563-735-5916 • 3603 236th Ave • Burr Oak, IA 52101

museum@lauraingallswilder.us • www.lauraingallswilder.us

• Visitor Center/Gift Shop

• Shelter House

• Playground

Guided tours of the Masters Hotel

Laura’s only childhood home

still on its original site.

Iowa Area Visitor Centers

ALLAMAKEE COUNTY

101 W. Main St

Waukon, IA 52172

563-568-2624 • 800-824-1424

allamakeecounty.com

BURR OAK

Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum

3603 236th Ave,

Burr Oak, IA 52101

563-735-5916

lauraingallswilder.us

CHARLES CITY CHAMBER

OF COMMERCE

401 N. Main St.

Charles City, IA 50616

641-228-4234

charlescitychamber.com

CHICKASAW COUNTY TOURISM

Nashua, IA 50658

641-435-4187

chickasawtrails.com

CITY OF CLERMONT

505 Larabee St.

Clermont, IA 52135

563-423-7295

clermontia.org

CLAYTON COUNTY

DEVELOPMENT GROUP

200 E. Bridge St.

Elkader, IA 52043

800-488-7572

claytoncountyiowa.com

CRESCO CHAMBER OF

COMMERCE

101 2nd Ave., SW

Cresco, IA 52136

563-547-3434

crescochamber.com

DECORAH CHAMBER OF

COMMERCE / WINNESHIEK CO.

CONVENTION &

VISITORS BUREAU

507 West Water Street

Decorah, IA 52101

563-463-2023 • 800-463-4692

visitdecorah.com

DYERSVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF

COMMERCE

1100 16th Ave Ct SE

Dyersville, IA 52040

563-875-2311 or 1-866-DYERSVILLE

dyersville.org

ELKADER CHAMBER OF

COMMERCE

207 N. Main

Elkader, IA 52043

563-245-2857 • 866-334-2857

elkader-iowa.com

FAYETTE COUNTY TOURISM CENTER

SW Corner Hwys 150 & 93

Fayette, IA 52142

800-789-4447 • 563-425-4447

fayettecountyia.com

FORT ATKINSON AREA CHAMBER

OF COMMERCE AND VISITOR

CENTER

244 North Main St.

Fort Atkinson, IA 52144

920-563-3210

fortchamber.com

GUTTENBERG CHAMBER OF

COMMERCE

323 S. River Park Dr.

Guttenberg, IA 52052

563-252-2323 • 877-252-2323

guttenbergiowa.net

HOWARD COUNTY ECONOMIC

DEVELOPMENT

101 2nd Ave. SW

Cresco, IA 52136

563-547-3434

howard-county.com

LANSING AREA CHAMBER OF

COMMERCE

340 Main St.

Lansing, IA 52151

563-538-4544

lansingiowa.org

LIME SPRINGS

563-566-4405

limesprings.com

MCGREGOR-MARQUETTE

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

146 Main St.

Mcgregor, IA 52157

800-896-0910 • 563-873-2186

mcgreg-marq.org

NEW HORIZONS CHAMBER

15 W Main St.

New Hampton, IA 50659

641-394-2021

discovernewhampton.com

OSAGE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

808 Main Street

Osage, IA 50461

641-732-3163

osagechamber.com

RICEVILLE AREA ECONOMIC

DEVELOPMENT

641-985-2442 • 641-985-4030

riceville.govoffice2.com

wgwltrail.com

WAUKON CHAMBER

OF COMMERCE

101 W. Main St.

Waukon, IA 52172

563-568-4110

waukon.org

136 I Decorah, IA A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

food for thought

A Decorah Favorite

VOTED BEST OF

THE BLUFFS

Dine in and carryout options available

FOR CURRENT HOURS CONTACT THE

RESTAURANT OR OUR WEBSITE

563-382-9463 • www.rubaiyatrestaurant.com

117 West Water St., Decorah, IA • Reservations Appreciated

info@rubaiyatrestaurant.com

Get ready to fall in love — just as thousands of

others do when they first discover the beauty

and magic of Decorah and Winneshiek County

in northeast Iowa. Visitors to the area find incomparable

scenic beauty, rolling farm land, towering limestone

bluffs, cascading waterfalls, and stunning vistas of the

Upper Iowa River.

The area is also rich in history, fascinating museums

and attractions, architectural beauty, quaint shop

and boutiques, award-winning restaurants, recreational

opportunities, and fun-filled festivals and events.

Nature lovers, canoers, bikers, hikers, anglers and others

cherish the area for its recreational offerings. Decorah

and Winneshiek County’s extensive and growing trail

system is the ideal setting for a romantic evening stroll,

power walk, or challenging bluff-side workout. Biking

enthusiasts at all levels love the area for its diversity of

trails. In fact, mountain biking in the Decorah area was

recently named one of the “52 Great American Weekends

(under $200) in the United States” by Men’s Journal

magazine.

The Upper Iowa River offers some of the best canoeing

in the tri-state area, but don’t take our word for it.

National Geographic Adventure magazine called it “One

of the top 100 adventures in the United States.” This is

what their editors had to say: “Sections of the Upper

Iowa River have deep, narrow valleys heavily wooded

with pine and cedar, maple, birch, oak and hickory. Steep


www.visitbluffcountry.com Decorah, IA I 137

We buy and sell gently-loved clothes and accessories for newborns to adults!

The brands

you want at

the prices

you !

love

212 W Water St, Decorah|563.419.8511|www.getupdecorah.com

everyone

ONEOTA

COMMUNITY

FOOD

COOPErative

decorah, iowa

Welcome

312 West Water Street, Decorah • 563.382.4666

oneotacoop.com • Open 9:00 am - 7:00 pm daily

Ladybug Landscapes

& decorah FLoraL

Your gardening friends since 1994

Decorah, IA 52101 • 563-387-0217

laDybugia.com

flowersplantssmileshappiness

S m a l l b a t c h

c o n t e m p o r a r y

A m e r i c a n b e e r

V i s i t o u r w e b p a g e

w w w . p u l p i t r o c k b r e w i n g . n e t

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5 6 3 . 3 8 0 . 3 6 1 0

2 0 7 C o l l e g e D r . D e c o r a h , I A

Plan your visit to Vesterheim!

Enjoy fun and innovative exhibits,

classes, and programs at the dynamic

campus and park in scenic Decorah,

Iowa, and online at vesterheim.org.

Find everything Scandinavian at the

Museum Store!


Email: uimarine@usa.com

www.upperiowamarine.com

1651 State Hwy 9 E

Decorah, Iowa 52101

WE SELL: Alumacraft & Crestliner Fishing Boats,

Premier & Viaggio Pontoons, Suzuki & Mercury

Outboards, Pelican Kayaks


limestone bluffs, some 300 to 400 feet tall, create massive,

craggy backdrops to the river’s tight bends.

Cliffs have been carved into unusual palisade-like

configurations by eons of weather and water. The most

outstanding are the tall, slender conical bluffs, called

chimney rocks, about four miles upstream from Bluffton.

After the days of summer and fall have passed and

the midwest winter is in full-force, the Decorah area is

a warm, cozy and romantic escape to make you feel like

you are a world apart. With plenty of distinctive bed

and breakfasts, rustic cabins and lodges, and a number

of well-appointed hotels, the area is the perfect spot to

unwind or rekindle a romantic spark. Excellent restaurants,

bistros and tea rooms also abound, and boutiquestyle

shopping offers something unique for everyone.

There is no shortage of enticing events in Winneshiek

County. Annual events include Women’s Weekend Out,

Laura Ingalls Wilder Days, Nordic Fest, Fort Atkinson’s

Rendezvous Days, and the Northeast Iowa Artists’ Studio

Tour, to name just a few. Museums like the Vesterheim

Norwegian-American Museum, with its extensive

campus of more than 12 historic buildings in downtown

Decorah, also host a wide array of celebrations and folk

art classes.

Phone: 866-382-9387 | Fax: 563-382-5488

Stop by Decorah's

Local Food Hall

coffee, juice, acai bowls, local bites,

charcuterie, soup, wine, cider, craft

beer & more!

Justin's

The Buzz

@TheLandingMarketDecorah

@TheLandingMarket

Root 43 Artisan Ghost Kitchen Made with Love

thelandingmarket.com

211 College Dr. Decorah, Iowa

market * local vendors * bottle shop


We use mainly locally grown berries

& ferment whole fruit for the best tasting

“TRUE TO THE FRUIT” unfiltered wines!

Come and taste the difference!

10 taps of craft beers,

hard ciders & seltzer,

domestic can beers.

www.emptynestwinery.com

Dave & Pam Kruger

1253 Apple Rd.,

Waukon, IA

(563) 568-2758

Like Us On Facebook

Book your next event in our NEW winery building!

Seating

for up to

200 people.

Catering

available!

Building

made from our

100-year-old

family barn.

Saturdays 10-5 & Sundays 1-5

May - Sept. Open Fridays 4-9pm

Closed January

Check Facebook or website for special

winery events and food options

2041 State Hwy 9, Decorah, Iowa • Book your stay at www.marriott.com/lsefd • 563-382-8800 then press 0


Iowa craft beer bar

31 taps

305 West Broadway St • Decorah, IA

Built by Norwegian immigrants in 1910, the B&B on

Broadway provides ample space for gathering with

family and friends and finding some quiet time.

The home is located in the historic district of

Decorah, two blocks from downtown.

www.bandbonbroadway.com

Visit our website to see

amenities and five unique

bedroom ensuites.

Stay with us...

...feel at home.

bbonbroadway@hotmail.com

(563)382-1420

Blue Heron Knittery, LLC

300 West Water St., Decorah 563-517-1059

• Knitting & Crocheting Supplies

• Unique Locally Made Items

• Fine • Fine Yarns Yarns • • Select Select Fair Fair Trade Trade Yarns Yarns

• • Books & Patterns

•• Spinning & Felting Fiber

Hours: Hours: Check Tues, our Wed, website, & Fri Facebook 11am-5pm page

Thurs or call 11am-8pm ahead 563-517-1059

~ Sun 12pm-4pm

Classes offered: Beginning knitting, felting,

socks and more...call for details!

Visit our Website website for Class class information Information www.blueheronknittery.com

Luxury Short-Term Rentals

DECORAH, IOWA

Come share a day in the country!

160 year family farm

Event Center • Wedding Venue • Restaurant • Gifts

Wine Tasting • Wine Slushies • Wine Flights • Beer

Check our website for current hours, events & menu!

1966 337th St, Decorah IA

www.wwwinery.com • sales@wwwinery.com

For questions email jackie.bohr@gmail.com


An exeptional meal awaits you at this

scenic restaurant in the woods

decorahacestores.com | 563-382-3538

Downtown Decorah

Featuring the best locally-sourced

SteakS • chopS • Seafood

Full-service bar serving

Specialty cocktailS

2149 Twin Springs Road, Decorah, IA

563-382-4096 | twinspringssupperclub.com

Visit our NEW LOCATION

Downtown Decorah | Sleeps 13

Perfect for retreats, family gatherings & more!

804 SHORT ST. DECORAH

(563) 382-4646 | redroxyquiltco.com

Mon -Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-4 • Sun 12-4

redsretreatdecorah.com | 563-380-5772


Thrift Local

Thrift Local - Support Local

STORE

HOURS:

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Depot Outlet profits granted

to Winneshiek County

non-profit organizations

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Monday - Friday

9-6

Saturday 9-3

DEPOT OUTLET

510 Montgomery Street, Decorah

563.382.2700 | www.depotoutlet.org

OLD ARMORY

BBQ

CHOP HOUSE

BBQ at its best!

We cater any size event!

Contact Chef Mike

Slow cooked meats

Homemade sauces

Appetizers & sides

OPEN DAILY | 208 COLLEGE VIEW DR.,DECORAH, IA | 563-382-6208

Bakke Family Farmhouse

———— 4 BEDROOM VACATION RENTAL ————

• Fully stocked kitchen • Fenced-in yard

• Spacious outdoor deck with grill • Patio furniture

• Washer and dryer• Wi-fi and satellite TV

• FRESH

MEXICAN FOOD

• COCKTAILS

• BEER & WINE

• DAILY LUNCH &

DINNER SPECIALS

• ORDERS TO GO

AVAILABLE

• PATIO OPEN AS

WEATHER PERMITS

Contact: Jan and Arleen Krueger by leaving a message on their home

phone at 563-382-2811 or by emailing akrueg@mchsi.com.

4 1/2 miles east of Decorah, IA on Highway #9

2131 Oil Well Road, Decorah, Iowa

201 E. Water Street • Decorah, IA • 563-382-6052

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday 11am-9:00pm

Friday & Saturday 11am-9:30pm • CLOSED Monday

Check out our menu at donjosedecorah.com


Decorah Hatchery

is on the world

wide web at....

godriftless.com

Finding things like...

"Trout Fishing In Northeast Iowa"

by John van Vliet,

Driftless tees and more

406 W Water St, Decorah, IA

VOTE FOR THE

BE A VBC

WINNER!


LIFETIME

HYDROS KAYAK





Two Great Bookstores

One Great Town

The Silver Birch

104 W Water St., Decorah

563-382-4432

Dragonfly Books

112 W. Water St, Decorah

563-382-4275

Waukon, IA

Located just 17 miles from the Wisconsin border, 18

miles from the Minnesota border and 15 miles from

the great Mississippi River, Waukon is surrounded

by the natural beauty of a remarkable landscape.

A 64-acre park is located in Waukon, complete with

electric/water supplied picnic shelters, walking trails, and

camping facilities. Also within the park are the Indian

Springs Pond, volleyball courts and a horseshoe pit, as

well as a softball field and ice rink.

A visit to the city’s aquatic center, open Memorial Day

through the last full weekend in August, can also make

for a fun afternoon of swimming.

Waukon caters to the interests of its visitors by providing

various entertainment. From bowling and golf

to wine tasting and even visits to the Old Courthouse

Museum, Waukon does its duty to make its visitors feel

welcome.

Mon-Sat 8am-9pm




144 I Waukon, IA A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

www.visitbluffcountry.com Waukon, IA I 145

Selection may vary by location.

Here for you. Here for life. Here for Bluff Country.

Pharmacy

Over-the-Counter Meds

Home Décor

Gifts & Hallmark Cards

Snacks & Drinks

hartigdrug.com

FIND A LOCATION NEAR YOU!

Dubuque, IA | Dyersville, IA | Guttenberg, IA | Prarie du Chien, WI | Waukon, IA

Local Products

Boutique Clothing

Jewelry, Purses & More

Travel Essentials

Photo Printing Services

HartigDrug

IRON HILL HARLEY-DAVIDSON

208 HWY 9 SW

WAUKON, IA

563-568-3471

IRONHILLHARLEYDAVIDSON.COM

GREAT RIVER HARLEY-DAVIDSON

1116 OAK FOREST DR

ONALASKA, WI

608-783-6112

GREATRIVERHARLEYDAVIDSON.COM

NEW • USED • PARTS • SERVICE

MOTORCLOTHES • ACCESSORIES

$

5

RIDE

BLUFF

COUNTRY

WITH U S

OFF

One (1) regular price Great River or Iron Hill Tee Shirt

when you show this ad. Offer valid through 12/30/23

146 I Waukon, IA A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE at upperiowaresort.com

- Canoe the Upper Iowa River

- Swim in the sand bottom pool

- Camp for a few days or stay

for the season. New seasonal

sites are available for 2023!

578 Lonnings Dr, Dorchester, IA • 563-568-3263

TOUR

MAP

ON PAGES 156-157


Serving your

jewelry needs

for over

60 years!

Fiesta Vallarta Mexican Restaurant

Sunday - Thursday

11am - 9 pm

Friday & Saturday

11am-10 pm

563-568-0020 • 9 E Main St., Waukon IA

563-568-0048

Photo by

Tatum Miller

Photography

31 West Main St. Waukon, IA • 563-568-3661

elliotjewelers.com

14 W Main St, Waukon, IA

Mon. 9-6, Tues - Fri 9-5, Sat. 9-1

3 goldsmiths, one watchmaker, 2 gemologists

– full service jewelry store.

Monday-Thursday 4- 9pm • Friday & Saturday 4-10 pm

www.visitbluffcountry.com Lansing, IA I 147

Coffee (all kinds),

homemade muffins,

scones, cookies,

marshmallows,

cheesecakes,

sandwiches and a

Lansing

wine bar!

Main Street, Lansing, Iowa, is lined with authentic

buildings from its rich mercantile past

and ends at the Mississippi, where steamboats

docked in yesteryear. Here, bald eagles soar year round,

the Mississippi Flyway is used by 80% of migratory

birds in the U.S., and spring and autumn bring 20,000+

elegant tundra swans and American white pelicans.

Lansing and the surrounding area are the ideal setting

for camping, hiking, biking, snowmobiling, skiing and

snowshoeing, as well as fishing, hunting, boating, and

tubing on the mighty river.

There are plenty of art experiences, and shopping, dining

and lodging opportunities in Lansing. While here,

visit the winery, get a massage and then put your feet up

at the coffee shop, bakery, or tiki bar. Learn more about

the area through interpretive exhibits at the Driftless

Area Education and Visitor Center, south on River Road.

Unique kitchen items,

home décor and

specialty gourmet

foods to make

every day a special

occasion!

Great cocktails, cold

Size inclusive boutique carrying S-3XL

clothing, shoes, jewelry, accessories and home goods

L e t ' s g e t

s o c i a l !

DGB-LANSING

N E W L O C A T I O N !

2 2 1 M A I N S T R E E T , L A N S I N G I A

beer, and fantastic

food!

CHECK OUT FACEBOOK FOR MORE INFO!

DRIFTLESS GYPSY BOUTIQUE

148 I Lansing, IA A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

2609 Main Street, LANSING IA

(2 miles west of downtown)

563-538-4965

RESTAURANT Open March 17 - Nov. 1

CAMPGROUND Open year round!

(water shuts off November 1)

A few amenities...

On-site mini golf

Trout stream fishing

Laundry facilities

Showers

10 S 2nd Street. Lansing, IA

563-568-8028 or 563-794-0828

backwatersuites@gmail.com

www.backwatersuites.com

VOTE FOR THE

BE A VBC

WINNER!


Don't have a

camper?

Rent our on-site

options!

redbarncampgroundandrestaurant.com

LIFETIME

HYDROS KAYAK





BE A VBC

WINNER!

VOTE FOR


CAMPING

ESSENTIALS

12 rotating beer taps • Meads • Ciders

Unique pizzas • Specialty appetizers






OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Monday-Friday 4-9 pm

Sat & Sun 11-9 pm

www.visitbluffcountry.com Marquette/McGregor, IA I 149

The towns of Marquette, McGregor and Prairie

du Chien comprise a tri-area nestled between

the steep river bluffs and the Mighty Mississippi

River, on the Great River Road. Whether it be hiking

and camping, relaxing on the Mississippi, grabbing a bite

to eat with a great view, or shopping our unique shops,

we have endless possibilities!

Spending time on the Great River Road Wine Trail?

Stop in at the winery in Marquette and enjoy free samples

of their award winning wine and relax in their wine garden.

Perhaps you brought the boat with you. Dock at

the city boat ramp and cruise the Mississippi, soaking

up the scenic river bluffs. Is hiking more to your liking?

Effigy Mounds National Monument has miles of trails

that meander past Indian burial mounds, culminating at

Hanging Rock overlooking the Mississippi River. Feeling

lucky? Drop in at the casino and try your hand one of the

tables while aboard a river boat.

Driving south to Marquette you will pass a marina,

where houseboat and pontoon rentals let you enjoy the

“Mighty ‘Sip” at your leisure. How about a guided river

tour for the afternoon? Once in McGregor you’ll find

shops lining Main Street and buildings that date back to

1800s still standing, inviting you in with their charm.

Take the drive to one of the most beautiful spots in the

state of Iowa, Pikes Peak State Park.

After a fun-filled day, the bed and breakfasts or our

local motels welcome you home, where you can relax and

unwind in our quaint little river towns. We have many

restaurants in both towns that serve up mouth-watering

home cooked dishes guaranteed to satisfy your appetite.

For more information check us out on Facebook -

McGregor-Marquette, Iowa, or find us on the web at

www.mcgreg-marq.org or contact the chamber office at

(800) 896-0910.

Do you want to advertise in this publication?

Contact us at ads@visitbluffcountry.com

with any questions!

Rock Shop, Coffee Shop

& Gift Shop

One of a kind shop! Carrying a variety of

minerals, fossils, and crystals, specialty

coffee/drinks, Lotus, Breakfast and Lunch food

options (carry out or dine in), baked goods,

freeze dried candies and unique gifts!

Family Owned & Operated!

Daisy Kay Crystals, Coffee, & Gifts

211 Main Street, McGregor, IA 52157

Phone: (563) 873-3067

www.daisykaycrystals.com

PLAY. DINE.

WIN. REPEAT.

Find your favorite slots with

over 400 machines PLUS ALL YOU

CAN EAT at Market Street Buffet!

FREE WINE TASTING

Live Music

563.873.1905

127 North Street

Marquette, IA

1 mile from

Prairie du Chien, WI

© 2021 Casino Queen, Inc. Must be 21 to enter the

casino. Gambling a problem? There is help. And hope.

Call 1-800-BETS-OFF or visit 1800BetsOff.org.

Check Website and Facebook

for Hours & Music

www.eagleslandingwinery.com

150 I Marquette/McGregor, IA A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Big city quality,

small town values...

AMENITIES

• Complimentary Breakfast

• Handicap Accessible

• Business Center

• Onsite Exercise Facility

• Complimentary High Speed Internet

• Onsite Convenience store

• Beer and Wine Bar

www.staycobblestone.com/ia/marquette | 563-873-8900, toll free: 888-693-8262

LIFE ON THE

River

Marquette

McGregor

Specialty Shops • Casino • Antiques • Lodging • Winery • Boating • Effigy Mounds • Pikes Peak State Park

Flea Markets McGregor Historical Museum • Driftless Area Wetlands Centre • Railroad Depot Museum

Riverboat Tours • Restaurants Brewery • Hiking Trails • Fat Tire Biking • Camping • Mississippi River

Art Festivals • Parks • Art Center • Marinas

563-873-2186 | 800-896-0910 | #portsofdiscovery

For a full listing of events, accommodations & attractions, visit our website: www.mcgreg-marq.org

Find us on Facebook

#McGregorIowa

#MarquetteIowa

www.visitbluffcountry.com Marquette/McGregor, IA I 151

Little Switzerland

Inn

126 Main St., McGregor, IA

Hours:

Thursday 11am-7pm

Fri. & Sat. 11am-9pm

Sunday 11am-2pm

123 A St, McGregor, IA

563-873-2002

Check out our

full menu on our

Facebook page!

Spend the night or weekend in our

cool & trendy Condos!

Family owned restaurant and brewery

in the heart of McGregor

• Private Baths/Whirlpools

• Cable TV/AC/Wi-Fi

• Private Entrances

• Children & Pet Friendly

• Microwaves, Refrigerators,

& Coffeemakers

Open year round

• Rob Roy Suite, 3 bedroom apt./balcony view of Mississippi River

• Alpine Suite, sleeps 2/on ground floor

• Chalet Suite, sleeps 6

• Sadie’s Log Cabin, sleeps 6

Within walking distance of downtown

restaurants, shopping & Mississippi River

563-873-2057 • Cell: 608-412-0400

www.littleswitzerlandinn.com

THE BARN

RESTAURANT

608-326-4941

Friday Night Fish Fry | Steaks

Saturday Night Prime Rib | Full Bar

Best Salad Bar in the Area | Seafood

Sandwiches | Broasted Chicken | Pizza

Open Tuesday - Saturday @ 4pm

Closed Sunday & Monday

3 miles north of Prairie du Chein, WI on County K

Prairie du Chien, WI

The Prairie du Chien Area Chamber of Commerce

welcomes you! As a community, we place a high

value on preserving historical landmarks and sharing

our rich history. We are especially excited for 2023, as

this year marks the 350th Anniversary of the Marquette

and Joliet Expedition!

Prairie du Chien’s recorded history began on June 17,

1673, when Fr. Jacques Marquette and fur trader Louis

Joliet came down the Wisconsin River and entered the

Mississippi River near present-day Prairie du Chien. As

the first Europeans to see the Mississippi River, their

four-month voyage carried them thousands of miles

through the heart of North America and helped to initiate

the first non-Native American settlements to this new

land. Prairie du Chien remains a thriving city and has

become a hub for tourism, outdoor recreation, numerous

annual events and festivals, and is a community of great

spirit and pride.

Open year round, the Chamber of Commerce office

and Wisconsin Welcome Center are positioned at the

gateway to Wisconsin, on the Wisconsin and Iowa border

at U.S. Highway 18 along the Mississippi River. It

is a one stop for local, regional and statewide tourism

information. Enjoy the Prairie du Chien area, our natural

attractions of rolling hills and picturesque ravines and


152 I Prairie du Chien, WI A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

WISCONSIN

WHERE YOUR

www.prairieduchien.org

BEGINS

NATURAL SCENIC BEAUTY ALONG THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER

HISTORIC CHARM | NATIONAL PARKS | BIKING | HIKING | UTV TRAILS

FISHING | BOATING | CAMPING | SHOPPING | DINING | LODGING

PDC AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & TOURISM COUNCIL: 800-732-1673 • FIND US ON FACEBOOK

WISCONSIN WELCOME CENTER - PDC: 608-326-2241 • 211 S. Main St. • Prairie du Chien, WI

www.visitbluffcountry.com Prairie du Chien, WI I 153

Cafe Hope

MoB

Pickett Fence

Planted Tree

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN

PRAIRIE DU CHIEN

MAIN STREET

Muddy Waters

Bargain Boutique

Broken Ladder

Cafe HOPE

120 N Beaumont Rd | 608-306-3350

Baked goods, fro-yo, refreshments & handmade gifts.

Market on Blackhawk

109 E Blackhawk Ave. | 608-326-2300

Artisans, vintage, handmades, custom, local wares and foodstuffs.

The Pickett Fence

100 W Blackhawk Ave. | 608-326-4593

Inspiring Fabrics, kits, notions & candy shop deliciousness.

The Bargain Boutique

200 E Blackhawk Ave.

Local re-sale store with antiques, clothing, books, housewares, and treasures for

all.

The Planted Tree

109 W Blackhawk Ave | 608-326-8733

Local Artisan Gallery including jewelry, pottery, leatherwork, photography, fiber arts and more.

The Broken Ladder

127 W Blackhawk Ave. | 608-412-0343

Seasonal & home decor, floral, candles and custom orders.

Muddy Waters Pizza Pub

207 W Blackhawk | 3608-380-12837

Thurs. & Fri. 5-10, Sat. 11-10, Sun. 12-7 Dine in, carry out and delivery

A homemade pizza you won’t soon forget!

PDC Main Street

Lucky Park | 4:00-6:30pm

Thursday Night Farmers Market May-October.

154 I Prairie du Chien/Platteville, WI A Guide to Historic Bluff Country


valleys, recreational opportunities, cultural offerings,

great dining establishments, abundant shopping options,

fine lodging and the warm, friendly service that greets

you at each of our local businesses. To find out more, visit

prairieduchien.org or call 1-800-732-1673.




HUCKLEBERRY'S

Daily

Specials!

1916 S. Marquette Rd. •Prarie Du Chien, WI

608-326-5488 • www.huckspdc.com

Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

• Restaurant • Banquet Facility

• Gift Shop

Best Pizza &

Chicken in

Town!

Try our incredible

Take & Bake Pizza!

FRIDAY

FISH FRY

SALAD BAR

The charm of southwest Wisconsin is especially

present in the city of Platteville. Surrounded by

rolling topography, this area hosts some of the

most breathtaking sights in the state. Besides being home

to a University of Wisconsin campus, Platteville also

offers a smorgasbord of things to see and do. Recreational

opportunities like fly fishing, hiking or biking the scenic

landscape, and enjoying a round of golf should keep you

busy. On the cultural side, the city provides art galleries

and unique museums that showcase Platteville’s rich

mining history. The historic downtown district makes

for a great way to spend a day shopping and visiting with

Platteville’s friendly residents. For an extended stay, there

are plenty of places to call home for a comfortable vacation.

Platteville is also home to one of eight Travel Wisconsin

Welcome Centers, conveniently located at Exit 18 on

Highway 151. The Center is open year-round, and seven

days a week from May 1 to November 1. Come discover

the southwest corner of the state with a visit to this choice

destination.

Send us your photos

for a chance to win

a $25 gift card!


www.visitbluffcountry.com Platteville, WI I 155

156 I Brewery, Distillery & Winery Tour A Guide to Historic Bluff Country


TOUR MAP

A LITTLE BIT ABOUT THEM

SUGAR CREEK VINEYARD & MEADERY

Fountain, MN

(612) 986-9177

Sugar Creek Vineyard and Meadery, located in

Southeastern Minnesota's Upper Mississippi River

Valley Viticultural region, is well suited for growing

cold, hardy wine grapes that create a wide spectrum

of flavors. Our meads are produced using locally

sourced honey, and fermented to perfection with a

variety of fruits, spice, and oak additives. We invite

you to come visit and enjoy our wines and meads,

and experience a little bit of all that Southeastern

Minnesota has to offer.

OLD MAN RIVER RESTAURANT &

BREWERY

Downtown McGregor, IA

(563) 873-2002

The Old Man Brewery has an 8 barrel copper german

system that makes great German and craft style

beers, Rocky Banks IPA, Red Horse Red Ale, Romance

the River Cream Ale, Paddle Boat Porter, Mississippi

Mandarin Citrus Wheat, Ourfest Marzen, and our

sought after Bourbon Bay Barrel Aged Honey Lager.

Our grain is milled outside using local Wisconsin base

barley and specialty grain from around the world to

make top notch flavors!

Join us for great beer and excellent food and

atmosphere!

HOPPY GIRL BREWING

Wabasha, MN

(651) 564-1568 • turningwatersbrewing.com

Good beer can be found in many places. Great beer,

however, is not so easy to find. Some of the best

beer is made off the beaten path, by an artist with

a simple passion. A brewer with this passion brews

hand-crafted small batch beers to be shared with

family and friends, and they are not generally found at

your average watering hole. Lucky for you, there is a

taproom in the back alley of our B&B where just such

beers can be found! Come enjoy some unique and

unforgettable flavors.

FOUR DAUGHTERS VINEYARD & WINERY

Spring Valley, MN

(507) 346-7300 • fourdaughtersvineyard.com

Visit Four Daughters Vineyard & Winery, Loon Juice

hard cider, and The Traditionalist Bourbon at this

unique 10 acre agri-tourism destination. This fully

operational winery, cidery, distillery also features

a full restaurant and event center, and the estate

includes a tasting room, production area, patio,

and 6 acre vineyard. The owners and their four

daughters dreamed of continuing their family's

long farming tradition. With more of a penchant for

hosting than plowing, a dream was born.

WANT TO BE ON THIS MAP?

www.visitbluffcountry.com Brewery, Distillery & Winery Tour I 157


TOUR MAP

HOP & BARREL BREWING CO.

Spring Valley, MN

(507) 346-9959 • hopandbarrelbrewing.com

Spring Valley's first brewery is now open! Bringing

years of experience in brewing, amazing local

brewers and staff, Minnesota sourced ingredients,

and knowledge from its sister location in Hudson,

WI; Hop & Barrel Spring Valley is brewing its own

unique style of locally made beers with the quality

you know to except from Hop & Barrel. From tasty

hazy IPAs to the crispiest of lagers, there's a taste

for everyone in Spring Valley, and plenty of local

entertainment on tap as well.

EMPTY NEST WINERY

Waukon, IA

(563) 568-2758 • emptynestwinery.com

Our winery is breathtaking & charming, made from

our reclaimed 100 year old family barn. Come sit &

relax inside or out on our patio & gazebo and your

stress will melt away. You must step foot inside to

appreciate this beautiful venue! Our winery tasting

room has a fun & relaxed atmosphere so you can

meet friends to taste & enjoy a glass of wine,

sangria, seltzers, pint of craft beer, cider or cans

of your favorite beer and always free popcorn to

munch on. We have 10 taps of craft beers and hard

ciders. Find us on Facebook.

TROUT CITY BREWING

Preston, MN

(404) 307-3788 • troutcitybrewing.com

Trout City Brewing is a family-owned brewpub

based on the idea of serving craft beer, selters,

and food. Located on the Root River, our small

town of Preston has rightfully earned its name

as Minnesota’s Trout Capital. Stop in to try our

selection of beer or hard seltzer made by our inhouse

brewers. We also host live music concerts,

themed brunches and other exciting events

throughout the year.

HIGHLIGHTS

Old Man River Restaurant & Brewery

123 A St. McGregor, IA

(563) 873-2002

Hoppy Girl Brewing, LLC

136 Bridge Ave, Wabasha, MN

(651) 564-1568

Trout City Brewing

132 St Anthony St S, Preston, MN

(404) 307-3788

Sylvan Brewing

100 Beacon St W, Lanesboro, MN

(507) 467-4677

ISLAND CITY BREWING

Winona, MN

(507) 961-5015 • islandcitybrew.com

PULPIT ROCK BREWING CO.

Decorah, IA

(563) 380-3610 • pulpitrockbrewing.net

HARMONY SPIRITS

Harmony, MN

(507) 886-7687 • harmonyspirits.net

Karst Brewing

315 1 st St, Fountain, MN

(612) 747-6367

Here at Island City Brewery we strive to create

a product and environment that can be enjoyed

by all! Founded in 2017, our brewery is located

in Winona’s Downtown area. The taproom has a

unique ambiance, as our historic building was once

a city freight house, and gives a full view of our 180

barrel capacity production facility; The largest beer

production site of SE Minnesota. Our friendly and

helpful staff, along with fun events such as trivia,

bingo, and live music have made our taproom and

patio a staple of Winona.

Built out of an old dairy facility and originally situated

next to a laundromat, Pulpit Rock Brewing opened

its bay doors during the summer of '15. Founded

by four Luther alumni, fueled by two head-brewers

and driven by a small taproom team (and the

occasional volunteer), this modest brewery embraces

the opportunity to produce and serve exciting and

innovative beers. With a rotating tap list that balances

classic styles, unabashed hop-enthusiasm and

adventurous flavor-infusions, we aim to provide our

guests with a spectrum of tastes and experiences.

Harmony Spirits makes premium spirits made from

locally sourced grains. Stop in at our tasting room and

have one of our delicious cocktails. Look for Harmony

Spirits at your favorite liquor store.

Put some “Harmony” in your glass and enjoy.

Island City Brewing

65 E. Front St, Winona, MN

(507) 961-5015

Hop & Barrel Brewing Co.

141 N. Broadway Ave, Spring Valley, MN

(507) 346-9959

Pulpit Rock Brewing Co.

207 College Dr., Decorah, IA

(563) 380-3610

ROCKFILTER DISTILLERY

Spring Grove, MN

(507) 498-7625 • rockfilterdistillery.com

Our founder went from a year in a combat zone to

sitting alone on a tractor. He didn’t miss getting shot

at, he did miss the camaraderie. Fellowship was found

in RockFilter and we hope it grows with every bottle.

Farming is more than working the land, it’s a business.

Turning acres into whiskey adds a lot of value, fun

included.

FRISKY FOX VINEYARD & WINERY

Riceville, IA

(507) 951-9024 • friskyfoxvineyard.com

Our vineyard is located on our family farm near

Riceville, IA. We raised swine and horses back in the

'70s and '80s. Now we rent out the farmland and tend

to the vineyard. We planted the first 30 vines in 2010;

they were damaged by a tornado on May 22, 2011. The

roof of the old house landed on the grape trellis, 300

feet from house. The tornado also destroyed the grain

bin and all of the old hog buildings. Since then, the

vineyard has expanded to 550 vines currently growing

on the property.

SYLVAN BREWING

Lanesboro, MN

(507) 467-4677 • sylvanbeer.com

Comfy, Crafty, and a little bit Crazy... nestled in the

heart of southeastern Minnesota's beautiful bluff

country, Lanesboro's first brewery in over 100 years

welcomes you with delicious beer and friendly service.

Sylvan Brewing is located in the former wood-stacked

granary. Our patio is open year-round and in the winter

has heaters and a fire pit for those chilly days. Dogs

are welcome on the patio.

We've got beer for all tastes!

EAGLES LANDING WINERY

Marquette, IA

(563) 873-1905 • eagleslandingwinery.com

2022 Governor’s Cup Iowa State Fair

People's Choice Award Iowa State Fair 2021

Winery of the Year 2018

Eagles Landing Winery prides itself as a fun, friendly

atmosphere that is family owned and is located in

Northeast Iowa along the Mississippi River and is part of

the tri-area of Prairie du Chien, WI & McGregor, IA. Rich

in history and the beauty of the driftless area, we are

conveniently located near several State Parks, a National

Monument, and a State Forest. We are Pet Friendly in

our Wine Garden. Check out our website for our music

line-up.

KARST BREWING

Fountain, MN

(612) 747-6367 • karstbrewed.com

Independent craft beer in Karst Country! Karst Brewing

in Fountain is Fillmore County's first modern brewery.

Eric brews a wide variety of exceptional beers from

light to malty to hop forward to sour. The owners

have repurposed three historic buildings to create

spacious outdoor seating, an off-leash dog area, a

beautiful indoor taproom and a cozy fireplace room.

Karst geology gives the region its characteristic caves,

sinkholes & streams, which Karst's Big Spring IPA,

Trout Run Pale Ale, Sugar Creek Saison and Flowstone

Alt celebrate. Come enjoy trivia, music, food trucks,

local pizza from Village Square, and amazing local

BEER!

WINNESHIEK WILDBERRY WINERY

Decorah, IA

(563) 735-5809 • wwwinery.com

Enjoy a fun, friendly wine experience amidst the

beautiful, rolling hills of Northeast Iowa. Winneshiek

Wildberry Winery is a family-owned and operated

winery specializing in award winning fruit and

Midwestern grape table wine in Decorah, Iowa. The

winery is located on our 150-year family farm between

Decorah, IA, and Mabel, MN.

We invite you to spend a day in the country sipping

wine and enjoying the seasonal view from the patio!


78757 MN-16, Spring Valley, MN

(507) 346-7300

Frisky Fox Vineyard & Winery

5295 70 th St, Riceville, IA

(507) 951-9024

Eagles Landing Winery

127 North St, Marquette, IA

(563) 873-1905

Winneshiek Wildberry Winery

1966 337 th St, Decorah, IA

(563) 735-5809

Sugar Creek Vineyard & Meadery

23661 County 8, Fountain, MN

(612) 986-9177

Empty Nest Winery

1352 Apple Rd., Waukon, IA

(563) 568-2758

RockFilter Distillery

113 Maple Dr., Spring Grove, MN

(507) 498-7625

Harmony Spirits

40 1st Ave NW, Harmony, MN

(507) 886-7687

CONTACT US TODAY! (800) 599-0481 OR EMAIL ADS@VISITBLUFFCOUNTRY.COM

158 I Calendar of Events A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

APRIL 2023

1 ChickFest................................ Charles City, IA

12-13 MN Trout Fishing Opener. ........................Statewide

22 Lipmasters Fishing Tournament. ............... Rushford, MN

28-30 Bluff Country Studio Art Tour.............. Area Communities

MAY 2023

5-7 Dick Hiley Memorial-St. Jude Bass Classic........Wabasha MN

6 Bird is the Word................................ Alma, WI

12-13 Mid West Music Fest ........................ Winona, MN

17-21 Syttende Mai Celebration. .................Spring Grove, MN

19-21 SEMBA Spring Bluegrass Festival. ............. Houston, MN

19-21 Trout Days................................. Preston, MN

20 Root River Triathlon......................... Houston, MN

28 State Veterans Cemetery Memorial Day Ceremony ....... Preston, MN

29 Spring Valley 100 Bike Race ...............Spring Valley, MN

.

.

JUNE 2023

3 Tour de Pepin. ............................. Lake City, MN

3 Rhubarb Festival .......................... Lanesboro, MN

3-4 Wisconsin Free State Bike Trail, Fishing, State Park

Weekend ............................. Wisconsin cities

8 Rhythm by the River.......................... Preston, MN

9 Party in the Park, 5-9pm .................... Charles City, IA

9-11 Dairy Days. .....................................Adams, MN

10 Fire in the Shire! (Renaissance).................... Alma, WI

10 Lake Louise State Park Open House. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . LeRoy, MN

10-11 Free Iowa resident fishing ...................... Iowa waters

14-18 Steamboat Days............................. Winona, MN

15-18 Prairie Villa Rendevous................. Prairie du Chien, WI

16-17 Hawkeye Fun Days........................... Hawkeye, IA

17 Founder’s Day Festival. ..................... Caledonia, MN

17 Iowa Games Whitewater Slalom Events......... Charles City, IA

17 Art in the Park. .......................... Lanesboro, MN

17 Shooting Star Trail Bike Ride.................... LeRoy, MN

17 Hole in the Sock Gang 1880s Street Theatre ......... McGregor, IA

6/20-7/30 Great River Shakespeare Festival..................Winona, MN

21-25 Mighty Howard County Fair. ..................... Cresco, IA

23-24 Brownsville Days......................... Brownsville, MN

23-25 Laura Ingalls Wilder Day.......................Burr Oak, IA

23-25 Charles City Challenge Whitewater Fest. . . . . . . . .Charles City, IA

23-25 Water Ski Days............................. Lake City, MN

24 Lazy River Wine & Beer Festival. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marquette, IA

24 Hole in the Sock Gang 1880s Street Theatre ..........McGregor, IA

24 Gammel Dag Fest........................... Peterson, MN

24 Cranberry Blossom Day....................... Warrens, WI

27 Music in the Park.......................... Caledonia, MN


6/30-7/4 Riverfest....................................La Crosse, WI

JULY 2023

6/20-7/30 Great River Shakespeare Festival..................Winona, MN

6/30-7/4 Riverfest....................................La Crosse, WI

2-4 July 4th Celebration. ........................ Harmony, MN

3-4 4th of July Celebration...................... Charles City, IA

6-8 Motto Guzzi Rally. .............................Elkader, IA

7-9 Rose Creek Fun Days...................... Rose Creek, MN

8 Christmas in July. ......................... Charles City, IA

9 Music in the Bandshell, 5-7pm. ............... Peterson, MN

11 Music in the Park. ......................... Caledonia, MN

11-15 Winneshiek County Fair........................ Decorah, IA


13-16 Rushford Days. ............................ Rushford, MN

14-16 SummerFest. ................................ LeRoy, MN

14-16 Root River Antique Engine & Tractor Show ..........Spring Valley, MN

15 Rail Fair.................................. La Crosse, WI

15 Spring Creek MX Pro National. .................Millville, MN

15 Southwest Music Festival .................... Platteville, WI

15-16 War of 1812: Battle of Prairie du Chien Re-enactment.......... .

................................... Prairie du Chien, WI

15-23 Hometown Festival Week. .................... Platteville, WI


17-23 Fillmore County Fair ......................... Preston, MN


19-23 Floyd County Fair ......................... Charles City, IA

19-23 Allamakee County Fair. ........................ Waukon, IA




27-29 Nordic Fest ................................. Decorah, IA

27-29 Prairie Dog Blues Festival. .............. Prairie du Chien, WI

28 Relay for Life. ............................. Fountain, MN

28-29 Swiss Heritage Days ............................ Alma, WI

28-29 Riverboat Days. ............................ Wabasha, MN

28-30 Sweet Corn Days. .............................Elkader, IA

28-30 Houston Hoedown Days. ..................... Houston, MN

29 Heritage Fest. ............................ Charles City, IA

29 Hole in the Sock Gang 1880s Street Theatre ...........McGregor, IA


AUGUST 2023

August HARC Art Month ........................... ............ . Houston, MN

4-5 Wapsi Days Festival. ..........................Riceville, IA

4-6 Buffalo Bill Days .......................... Lanesboro, MN



10-13 Western Days. ............................. Chatfield, MN

11-13 Irish Fest................................. La Crosse, WI

11-13 Fish Days. .................................. Lansing, IA

www.visitbluffcountry.com Calendar of Events I 159

.

11-13 Sweet Corn Days......................... Lime Springs, IA

11-13 Millville Valley River Days.....................Millville, MN

15-20 Ag Days Celebration .....................Spring Valley, MN

16-20 Houston County Fair. ...................... Caledonia, MN

17-20 SEMBA Summer Bluegrass Festival. . . . . . . . . . . . . Houston, MN

17-25 Apollo Music Festival ....................... Houston, MN

18-20 Canton Day Off Celebration.................... Canton, MN

19 Art-A-Fest ............................... Charles City, IA

19 LizFest/Apple Blossom Bike Tour. ............ La Crescent, MN

19 Bluff Land Tri: Run, Bike, Hike................. Rushford, MN

19-20 Art in the Park Fine Arts Festival..................Elkader, IA

25-27 Norman Borlaug Harvest Fest .................... Cresco, IA

26 Hole in the Sock Gang 1880s Street Theatre ..........McGregor, IA

.

SEPTEMBER 2023

3 Music & Arts Festival............................ Alma, WI

7-10 Hesper-Mabel Steam Engine Days.................... Mabel, MN

8-10 Watermelon Fest ............................ Kellogg, MN

8-10 Dairy Days................................ Platteville, Wi

9-10 Laura Ingalls Wilder Days.......................... Pepin, WI

9/9-10/21 SeptOberFest. ............................. Wabasha, MN

14-17 Applefest............................... La Crescent, MN

16 Great River Car Show & Cruise...................Elkader, IA

21-24 Boats and Bluegrass Festival................... Winona, MN

21-24 Fall Festival.................................Wykoff, MN

22-24 Cranberry Festival ........................... Warrens, WI .

9/28-10/1 Oktoberfest .................................. La Crosse, WI

29 Lake Louise Candlelight Walk ..................... LeRoy, MN

30 Hole in the Sock Gang 1880s Street Theatre ......... McGregor, IA

9/29-10/1 NE Iowa Studio Arts Tour.............. Northeast Iowa towns

OCTOBER 2023

9/9-10/21 SeptOberFest. ............................. Wabasha, MN

9/28-10/1 Oktoberfest............................... La Crosse, WI

9/29-10/1 NE Iowa Studio Arts Tour .............. Northeast Iowa towns

3-5 Cranberry Harvest Days. .......................Warrens, WI

7 Harvest Festival...............................Elkader, IA

7 Apple Affair ............................... Galesville, WI

7 Fall into Lanesboro ........................ Lanesboro, MN

7-8 Uffda Fest.............................. Spring Grove, MN

14 The Filthy 50 Bike Race...........begins/ends Lanesboro, MN

20-21 Oktoberfest........................... Prairie du Chien, WI

20-22 Hot Air Balloon Rally/Wild Turkey Fest ......... Caledonia, MN

21 Arts & Crafts Fair........................... Rushford, MN

28 Haunted Harmony .......................... Harmony, MN

28 Hole in the Sock Gang 1880s Street Theatre . ......... McGregor, IA

NOVEMBER 2023

23 Fillmore County Turkey Day Run. ............... Preston, MN

24 Santa Holiday Parade. .......................... Cresco, IA

11/24-12/31 Rotary Lights ............................. La Crosse, WI

25 Houston Arts Festival.........................Houston, MN

25 Experince the Magic of Lanesboro. ............ Lanesboro, MN

DECEMBER 2023

11/24-12/31 Rotary Lights ............................. La Crosse, WI

1 Winter Wonderland Parade .................. Caledonia, MN

2 Hollidazzle................................ Houston, MN

7 Lighted Parade. .............................. Decorah, IA

8 Christmas in La Crescent................... La Crescent, MN

9 Lighted Parade. ............................. Canton, MN

9 Christmas in Peterson....................... Peterson, MN.

9 Parade of Lights. ........................... Rushford, MN.

16 Wreaths for the Fallen, Preston Veterans Cemetery... Preston, MN

16 Juletrefest .............................Spring Grove, MN

27-31 Carp Fest. ........................... Prairie du Chien, WI

JANUARY 2024

20-21 Wisconsin Free Fishing Weekend ........... Wisconsin waters

FEBRUARY 2024

3 Chatfield Chill Fest ......................... Chatfield, MN

3 Whalan Candlelight Ski....................... Whalan, MN

4-11 Frozen River Film Festival. .................... Winona, MN

MARCH 2024

1-3 International Festival of Owls. ..................Houston, MN

7-10 Oneota Film Festival .......................... Decorah, IA

8-10 Cabin Fever Fest .......................... Lanesboro, MN

TROUT STREAM MAP

ON PAGES 100-105

160 I Golf Guide A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

GOLF GUIDE

Chosen Valley Golf

9 Hole Course

1

2

Rivers Bend

18 Hole Course

Preston Golf

9 Hole Course

3

4

Harmony Golf

9 Hole Course

5

Lanesboro Golf Course

9 Hole Course

CHOSEN VALLEY

GOLF COURSE

1801 Main St S

Chatfield, MN

Our 9 hole course is nestled in

the Chosen Valley of Southeast

Minnesota. Open to the public

and conveniently located

approximately 25 miles south

of Rochester along US Highway

52, the CVGC offers scenic views

and rolling terrain, making for

challenging play at a reasonable

prices for golfers at every skill

level. The course plays 2,933

yards from the deepest tees for

a par of 35.

RIVERS BEND

GOLF COURSE

24461 Heron Rd

Preston, MN

Voted best golf course in Bluff

Country. Rivers Bend, at Old Barn

Resort, is an 18 hole, par 70 course.

Unfolding along the Root River and

Watson Creek, every shot on every

hole places you in an unrivaled

setting of natural beauty. With tee

shots atop bluffs and approach shots

to well protected greens, accuracy

will be important. Featuring not one,

but two signature holes. Hole 10 is a

peninsula par 3 and Hole 16 is a long

par 5 showcasing a bluff wall and

trees from tee to green. Rivers Bend,

as picturesque as it is challenging.

1 2

PRESTON

GOLF COURSE

Hwy 16 W

Preston, MN

Come to Preston and enjoy the views

of our 9 hole gently rolling course.

Women's Day is every Tuesday and

Men's Day is every Thursday. Both

nights our golfers have the option

to purchase a home-cooked meal

at the clubhouse. We offer specials

for first year, second year and out

of town memberships. You can find

these deals on our ad, or you can

visit our website. You may call in for

a tee time at 507-765-4485. Come

see what Preston Golf Course has

to offer!

3

HARMONY

GOLF CLUB

545 4th St NE

Harmony, MN

The 9 hole course is open to the public

and we also encourage memberships.

The course is a par 36 with 2,904

yards and is fun for all! Golf carts

and pull carts are available and we

also have a clubhouse. No tee times

available, but you may call ahead to

check availability of carts and special

events. The clubhouse has capacity

for 99 people and can be rented for

meetings or special events and has a

full service kitchen available. Contact

us at: harmonygolfclub@outlook.com or

507-886-5622

4

LANESBORO

GOLF CLUB

900 Parkway Ave S

Lanesboro, MN

Lanesboro Golf Course is honored

to invite you to tee off on our scenic

course any day of the week! We

offer a personally maintained

9-hole course with an intriguing

challenge at every stroke along your

experience. Whether you are out for

practice or challenging a group of

friends we have plenty of terrain to

offer a wonderful time! You will find

homemade drinks, snacks, and food

in the clubhouse. Give us a call or

swing on up to par-tee with us!

5

WANT TO BE ON THIS MAP?

CONTACT US TODAY! (800) 599-0481 OR EMAIL ADS@VISITBLUFFCOUNTRY.COM

Visit the vibrant town of Charles City, IA to experience warm, inviting

yet bright and inspiring shopping at The Rustic Corner!

Wall Hangings & Decor - Fashion Accessories

Gifts for All Ages and Occasions

While-You-Wait Personalized Engraving

THE

Cards & Gift Wrap ● Keepsake Ornaments

RustiC Corner

W O R T H T H E T R I P E V E R Y T I M E

Open Tues - Fri 10 am to 6 pm, Saturday 9 am - Noon

Check our website fore seasonal hours (Nov & Dec)

Visit Facebook.com/TheRusticCorner for event & sale dates

413 N Main Street • Charles City, IA 50616

641-228-2657 • TheRusticCorner.com


Southern Minnesota’s Premier Bed & Breakfast

Treat yourself to a stay in this 1897

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our modern times. Enjoy the library,

fireplaces, porches, many collections

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*Ask about our Mayo Clinic rates

www.oakenwaldterrace.com • 218 Winona St, Chatfield, MN 507-867-3806

“I have never seen anything like it, the house, the food, the hospitality…remarkable…”


JEFF BROGLE

507.577.1121 | BLUFFCOUNTRYPROPERTIES.COM

SELLING BUYING

OR

RURAL PROPERTY?

Raising our family on a farm in Fillmore County,

MN, my wife and I are involved community

members. My passion for the outdoors, living the

lifestyle, and business experience sets me apart.

I am the founder of Bluff Country Properties and

your trusted land specialist.



Founder & Owner


Ranked #1 Most sellers & buyers represented for LAND sales in Fillmore County, MN in 2022

Ranked #1 LAND listings sold for 101% of list price in an average of 6 days in 2022


SPECIALIZING IN:

HUNTING | FARMS | RECREATIONAL | RURAL HOMES


MEMORIAL CAR SHOW

SATURDAY, JUNE 17, 2023

11 A.M. TO 2 P.M.

Corner of Kingston & Main (stoplights) in Caledonia, MN

Cruise

for a Cause

SUNDAY, JUNE 18, 2023

98 MILE ROUTE STARTING @ 11:00AM IN CALEDONIA, MN

The Father's Day Cruise for a Cause will be a fundraising event with details

announced on visitbluffcountry.com/carshowcruise on a later date.

Questions? Call 507-765-2151 or e-mail info@visitbluffcountry.com

SPONSORED BY


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Visit Bluff Country Magazine 2023/2024

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