Mankato, MN

Established in 1905, Minneopa State Park is a 58-acre park filled with many sites and trails. It is home to numerous waterfalls including the most popular, Minneopa Falls. You can hike through the native prairie grasslands to get to the scenic Minnesota River Valley. During your exploration there you’ll be able to see the underlying geology of the area as well as visit Seppmann Mill, which is a wind-driven grist mill made with lumber and native stone built to resemble the German style. On-site facilities include a bike trail, hiking trail, groomed cross-country ski trail, and a boat ramp for access to the lake or river.

Address: Minneopa State Park, 54497 Gadwall Rd, Mankato, MN 56001, Phone: 507-386-3910

The Red Jacket Trail is a 6 to 13-mile trail that follows an old railroad and crosses route MN-66 where bikers and hikers will be able to see the historic 80-foot-high Red Jacket Trestle. It is good to know that the trail surface is of crushed stone and asphalt, making it easily accessible to those in a wheelchair. People who have visited the trail love it because of its tranquility and the lovely scenery that you’ll pass through as you explore it. Keep in mind that the Red Jacket Trail links up with the Sakatah Trail as well as the Mankato River Trail within Minneopa State Park.

Seven-Mile Creek Park comprises 628 acres of valleys, grasslands, deciduous forests, the Minnesota River, and the bluffs of Seven Mile Creek. There are 8 miles of multi-use trails that are perfect for walking, biking, hiking, and more. You’ll go over bridges that offer stunning views of the surroundings and come across numerous picnic areas, shelters, and a public boat landing on the Minnesota River. Other aspects of the park also include a playground, a baseball diamond, and several volleyball courts for the entire family to enjoy while there. Be sure to keep an eye out as you’re sure to see interesting fauna such as wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, and several species of nesting and migratory birds.

Address: Seven-Mile Creek Park, 47454 U.S. 169, St Peter, MN 56082, Phone: 507-931-1760

Mount Kato is a family fun location that is filled with numerous activities, making it enjoyable for the entire family, no matter their preference or age. All of the excitement surrounds the main seating area, Kato Cafe, and the Lift Bar and Grill, where you can drink and dine. Once you’re ready for the great outdoors, head out to participate in activities such as skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, or mountain biking. Equipment rentals as well as lessons for individuals or groups, children or adults, are also available at nominal costs. Various events are held throughout the year, including Spring Fling, Mogul Mash, and the Duct Tape Derby, where you race with a sled made out of cardboard and duct tape!

Address: Mount Kato, 20461 Minnesota 66, Mankato, MN 56001, Phone: 507-625-3363

Recommended Activities for Families

The Children's Museum of Southern Minnesota is the brainchild of a group of community members, educators, and business leaders who wanted an inviting and safe place for children to learn, play, and grow. Though it has had many temporary locations since its origin in 2006, it wasn’t until 2015 that the museum found its permanent place in the city’s former mass transit building. All children and families are invited to participate in the unique programs, which vary throughout the year but may include exhibits such as understanding the workings of a dairy barn, figuring out how sun-sensitive paper works, or going on archaeology digs to better understand the land.

Address: Children's Museum of Southern Minnesota, 224 Lamm St, Mankato, MN 56001, Phone: 507-386-0279

People have flocked to Sibley Farm since 1893 for a day of family-friendly fun that both the adults and kids will enjoy. The farm itself, which is a red barn-style building with many farm animals, is located within Sibley Park. The one of a kind Mankato destination houses calves, horses, lambs, goats, alpacas, peacocks, chicks, and koi fish in the pond outside. Other aspects include a children’s park and a pavilion that can be rented for events. During the warmer months, be sure to bring your barbecue grill with you to enjoy in the Sibley Farm courtyard, which also has picnic tables for your comfort.

Address: Sibley Farm, 900 Mound Avenue, Mankato, MN 56001, Phone: 507-387-8600

Attractions for Couples

Betsy & Tacy's House Tours & Gift Shop are two structures opposite of each other that were the childhood homes of Maud Palmer Hart and Frances “Bick” Kenney, two best friends who later chronicled their childhood in the children’s Betsy-Tacy book series. Betsy’s house is furnished as a museum that exactly resembles how it was when her family lived there in the late 1800s and will take visitors back in time with its period furniture and decor. Tacy’s house is an interpretive center and gift shop that has many artifacts on display such as photographs, scrapbooks, manuscripts, and more.

Address: Betsy & Tacy's House Tours & Gift Shop, 332/ 333 Center Street, Mankato, MN 56001

Head over to the Mankato Brewery to try their authentic beers that reflect the heritage of the area and the people there. The brewery started up in 2012, making it the first production brewery in Mankato since 1967 and reviving what was once a great tradition in the Key City. The taproom is a renowned place in the town and is one of the key locations for locals to meet up, socialize, and just unwind after a long day, so make sure to stop by on your visit to meet some friendly faces and try the delicious drinks. You’ll be able to see great views of the brewhouse, purchase gifts at the merchandise shop, or enjoy live music on the Mankato Brewery stage. Tours of the brewery are arranged every Saturday for those who want a more up-close look.

Address: Mankato Brewery, 1119 Center St, North Mankato, MN 56003, Phone: 507-386-2337

With over 80 stores and kiosks, River Hills Mall is the place to be when you’re in the mood for a day of shopping, dining, and having a good time. The stores feature everything from the latest apparel and technology to accessories and home goods. The diverse food court houses several fast food chains and restaurateurs that serve fresh, delicious cuisine throughout the day. Kids will love spending time in the children’s play area, where they can interact with others their age, or watching one of the latest releases in the mall’s eight-screen theater. No matter what you’re in the mood for, River Hills Malls is the ideal family-friendly destination and should be visited when you’re in Mankato.

Address: River Hills Mall, 1850 Adams St, Mankato, MN 56001, Phone: 507-388-1100

The Carnegie Art Center has been documenting and presenting various forms of visual art since 1981. It is now Mankato’s largest exhibition space with permanent galleries as well as a monthly gallery that displays the work of regional artists. Thousands of visitors head to the center to witness the creativity of artists from the community, whether it be in the form of paintings, ceramics, sculptures, photographs, street art, or digital works, among others. The center’s gift shop has tons of unique items that are perfect as gifts or for yourself, including but not limited to framed prints, paintings, hand-turned bowls, ceramics, hand-blown glass, origami gift boxes, and much more.

Address: Carnegie Art Center, 120 South Broad Street, Mankato, MN 56001, Phone: 507-625-2730