When I’m looking for a place that blends world-class healthcare with friendly Midwestern energy, I head to Rochester, Minnesota—and I think you’ll find it as welcoming and vibrant as I do. Known for the Mayo Clinic, this city surprised me with its riverfront trails, bustling downtown, and warm community feel. Whether you’re here for treatment, meetings, or a little R&R, Rochester offers the perfect mix of innovation and hospitality.
Best Time to Visit
I recommend visiting between May and September. That’s when the weather is warm and ideal for patio dining, festivals, and exploring the city’s parks and bike paths. I’ve visited in winter too—and while it’s cold, you’ll find cozy cafés, skyway-connected downtown spots, and the kind of snowy charm that makes you want to wrap up with a warm drink and stay a while.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: I drive in via U.S. Route 63 or Highway 52—it’s an easy 1.5-hour trip southeast from Minneapolis. You’ll find clear signs and smooth roads the whole way.
- By Plane: When I fly, I use Rochester International Airport (RST) for convenience—especially with its Mayo Clinic shuttle access. If you need more options, Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport (MSP) is about 80 minutes away and easy to reach by shuttle or rental car.
- By Bus: I’ve used Jefferson Lines and other shuttle services to get to and from the Twin Cities. It’s reliable and especially helpful if you’re heading straight to the Mayo Clinic or downtown hotels.
Where to Stay
- Kahler Grand Hotel – I’ve stayed here for the unbeatable location. You’ll have direct skyway access to the Mayo Clinic and a historic atmosphere that feels both elegant and convenient.
- Hotel Indigo Rochester – I love the artsy vibe here. You’ll be steps from restaurants and shops, plus the rooftop dining makes it extra memorable, especially at sunset.
- Even Hotel Rochester – Mayo Clinic Area – This is my go-to when I want to stay active on the road. You’ll find in-room fitness zones, healthy food options, and a short walk to the clinic and downtown.
Top Attractions
1. Admire Historic Architecture and Medical Heritage at the Plummer Building
The Plummer Building, opened in 1928, is now an iconic symbol of the Mayo Clinic and National Historic Landmark. The building is named after Henry S. Plummer, M.D., who designed it and created systems and procedures still in use at Mayo Clinic. Dr. Plummer wished for the facility to be efficient as well as pleasing to the eye.
The building's historic third floor has the offices of Dr. Charlie and Dr. Will Mayo. While patient care is handled in the Gondo and Mayo buildings, among others, the Plummer Building houses academic, administrative, and support functions.
Plummer Building, Rochester, MN, Phone: 507-284-2585
2. Explore Gardens and Artistic Events at the Plummer House of the Arts
Dr. Mayo asked Dr. Plummer to join the Mayo Clinic staff in 1901 - a remarkable relationship that lasted 35 years. Dr. Plummer is credited with several innovative ideas generated during his tenure, including his invention of the pneumatic tube. In 1924, the Plummer house consisted of 65 acres.
Eleven acres remain and are maintained by the Rochester Park and Recreation Department, which uses it as a tourist attraction and for receptions, weddings, meetings, and classes. Guests renting the home are entitled to use the grounds, such as formal gardens, bird trail, quarry, and water tower.
Plummer House of the Arts, 1091 Plummer Ln SW, Rochester, MN 55902, Phone: 507-328-2525
If you are traveling with kids:
3. Hike Trails and Meet Wildlife at Quarry Hill Nature Center
Quarry Hill Nature Center offers visitors a place to observe many live animals, birds, and fish, plus a taxidermy collection. It's home to 35 species of live animals native to Minnesota, plus exotic species, a huge aquarium with seven varieties of fish, and two raptors. Keen eyesight, highly sensitive hearing, speed, silent flight, and crushing talons distinguish these birds.
For at least 20 years, the Nature Center's indoor hive has offered visitors a close up view of the internal goings-on of a honeybee colony. The Bird Study Room features Minnesota-native birds - either mounted or living just outside the windows. The Nature Center is free and open all but four days of the year.
701 Silver Creek Road NE, Rochester, MN 55906, Phone: 507-328-3950
4. Engage with Contemporary Creativity at the Rochester Art Center
The Rochester Art Cente is a non-collecting institution that focuses on presenting temporary exhibitions that feature established international, national, and local artists, plus up-and-coming artists whose work represents a variety of media. One of its programs is the Emerging Artist Series, which develops, commissions, and produces new work by Minnesota's emerging artists. The program has worked directly with 50+ artists. Artists in this program are nurtured, supported, and challenged to take risks.
40 Civic Center Dr. SE, Rochester, MN, Phone: 507-282-8629
5. Step Into Gilded-Age Elegance at the Mayowood Mansion
Co-founder of the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Charles H. Mayo, built Mayowood in 1911. The estate contains gardens and the doctor's decorative arts collection. More than 40 rooms are furnished in antiques of English, German, French, Spanish, and American heritage. The Mayo family, in 1965, donated the home and ten acres to the Olmsted County Historical Society.
Two years later, Mayowood Mansion was declared a Minnesota Historic Site by a legislative act, and in 1970 the mansion and landscape were listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In July 2013, the Mayowood Mansion building and grounds title was transferred to the Mayo Clinic, as voted on and agreed to by the membership of the Olmsted County Historical Society. Tours are offered for visitors' enjoyment.
3720 Mayowood Road SW, Rochester, MN 55902
6. Honor Heroes and Reflect at Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial
The Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial honors American veterans across generations. The Wall of Remembrance pays tribute to more than 3,000 women and men from southeast Minnesota who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Comprised of about 6,000 pavers, The Walk of Remembrance honors United States veterans and allies for their service.
The Trees of Remembrance features 50 "sponsored" trees that represent each state. This memorial, conceived in 1995, was built without tax dollars and is open every day at no charge to visitors until 10 PM. The memorial is near the downtown area. Free parking is available at its entrance.
300 7th Street SW
7. Take a Guided Journey into Simpler Times with Bluffscape Amish Tours
What can visitors expect on a Bluffscape Amish Tour? During a three-hour guided tour, visitors will sojourn at Amish farms and shops and get a glimpse of Minnesota's Amish community. There is travel to the Amish farms between Preston, Lanesboro, Harmony, and Canton. Listen to the fascinating history of the Amish from knowledgeable guides.
Select Amish crafts, quilts, baskets, hardwood furniture, leather goods, canned and baked items, candles, soaps, candy, and fresh garden produce while enjoying cashew crunch that visitors may purchase along their journey. Guests will also learn all about Lenora Church, a non-Amish stop, established in 1856.
102 Beacon St E, Lanesboro, MN 55949, Phone: 507-467-3070
Romantic Activities and Attractions:
8. Uncover Regional Stories at the History Center of Olmsted County
The vision of the History Center of Olmsted County is to encourage the exploration of history. In 1926, it was established by Burton Eaton to collect, preserve and interpret the history of Olmsted County. The center now serves the southeastern Minnesota region and Olmsted County with programs, events, exhibits, archives, and a research center.
It is the owner and operator of five historic properties and buildings; two of these are on the National Registry of Historic Places. The organization is assisted by the Olmsted County Genealogy Society and maintains a partnership with the Mechanical History Round Table, among others.
1195 West Circle Drive SW - Rochester, MN 55902, Phone: 507-282-9447
9. View Sculptures at the Charles E. Gagnon Museum and Sculpture Garden
Charles Gagnon became a professional sculptor in 1960, dedicating his life to producing beautiful sculptures that were designed to uplift the spirits and create an atmosphere of peace and serenity. When you visit the Charles E. Gagnon Museum and Sculpture Garden today you will be taken on a guided tour of the artist’s home, where you will learn about his life as an artist. Your guide will be his wife – the best person to tell his fascinating story. The museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday by appointment. The outdoor sculpture garden is only open from May through October. Exhibitions are held twice a year and various Music in the Garden events are hosted in summer.
Charles E. Gagnon Museum and Sculpture Garden, 2500 4th Street SW, Rochester, MN 55902, 507 282 5202
10. Browse Vintage Treasures at The Machine Shed Antique Store
Located in Downtown Broadway, The Machine Shed is a popular meeting place for arcade gaming enthusiasts. Especially for those who love vintage video games. At the Machine Shed you don’t need to worry about coins or tokens – a single $10 fee gives you access to all the games, all day long. The adjacent Gaming Bazaar buys and trades vintage video games that you will recall from your youth; they also repair faulty gaming consoles and have enough games to keep everyone playing for hours on end. They also offer weekly rentals and host parties of all kinds, offering great food, great gaming and a party room.
The Machine Shed, 11 2nd Street NE, Rochester, MN 55906, 507 258 6501
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Mayo Clinic Campus – A world-renowned medical center featuring beautiful architecture, public art, and educational exhibits.
- Peace Plaza – A vibrant public square in downtown that hosts events, art installations, and seasonal displays.
- Silver Lake Park – Rent a paddleboat, bike along the lakeside trail, or enjoy a relaxing picnic in this scenic park downtown.
Where to Eat
- Forager Brewery – A local favorite serving craft beer, wood-fired pizzas, and offering a welcoming community atmosphere.
- Terza Ristorante – Upscale Italian dining with fresh pasta, a great wine selection, and rooftop views in the heart of the city.
- Newt’s – A classic burger joint known for generous portions and local flavor, with several locations around town.
If you are interested in local events:
- Thursdays Downtown (Summer) – A weekly street festival during the summer with live music, food vendors, shopping, and family fun.
- Rochesterfest (June) – A week-long celebration featuring parades, concerts, food trucks, and community events.
- SocialICE (February) – A unique winter event held in Peace Plaza featuring ice bars, themed drinks, ice sculptures, and live DJs.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Rochester, Minnesota:
- Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo (25 min) – A great family outing with hiking trails and native Minnesota wildlife.
- Douglas State Trail (10–15 min) – A scenic biking and walking trail that stretches from Rochester to Pine Island.
- Byron (20 min) – A quiet town with parks, small shops, and access to the Zumbro River for kayaking or fishing.
- Plainview (30 min) – A quaint small town with historic charm, perfect for a scenic country drive.
- Chester Woods Park (20–25 min) – A peaceful county park offering hiking, fishing, canoeing, and wildlife viewing just east of town.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Q: Where is Rochester located?
- Rochester is located on the south fork of the Zumbro River and is Minnesota's third-largest city.
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Q: What is the centerpiece of Rochester's economy?
- The centerpiece of Rochester's economy is the Mayo Clinic, which draws over two million visitors annually.
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Q: What are some popular attractions in Rochester?
- Popular attractions include the Quarry Hill Nature Center, Rochester Art Center, Mayowood Mansion, and the History Center of Olmsted County.
Plan Your Trip