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Where is New Ulm located?
- New Ulm is located less than 2 hours from Minneapolis.
- It is approximately 91.8 miles via US-212 W/Yellowstone Trail.
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Why is New Ulm a great weekend getaway?
- New Ulm offers a mix of natural beauty, history, and cultural attractions.
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What unique attractions can visitors explore in New Ulm?
- Flandrau State Park, ideal for outdoor recreation and scenic walks.
- The Minnesota Music Hall of Fame, celebrating the state’s musical heritage.
- Morgan Creek Vineyard’s underground tasting room, a unique wine-tasting experience.
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1. Glockenspiel
Watch figures dance and hear chimes on a quick stop at this unusual sight.
One of few free-standing carillons of this size in the world, Glockenspiel is a 45-foot tall clock and bell tower situated in the heart of downtown New Ulm, Minnesota. Chiming of the bells can be heard throughout the day, but at noon, 3:00 in the afternoon, and 5:00 in the evening, the bell tower plays programmed pieces. The tower houses 37 bells that produce an impressive weight of over two tons. During the programmed performances, a stage with twelve figurines depicting various characters from the city’s rich history rotates for onlookers to see. From late November to early January, the tower features a nativity scene below one of its clock faces.
327 North Minnesota Street, New Ulm, MN, Phone: 507-233-4300
2. Flandrau State Park
Hike wooded trails and relax by the river on a fall trip.
Flandrau State Park is nestled in a beautiful valley created by the winding Cottonwood River in New Ulm, Minnesota. The park’s 982 acres feature marshes, wet and dry prairie, a river, and flora that includes willow, American elm, sugar maple, bur oak, aspen trees, and Indian and big bluestem grasses. The park is an important sanctuary for local wildlife; many animal species can be seen here including white-tailed deer, gray foxes, coyotes, and beavers. During the warmer months, the park’s eight miles of picturesque trails are perfect for walking, running, and hiking. During the winter, two miles of trail are available for snowshoeing, and six miles for cross-country skiing.
1300 Summit Avenue, New Ulm, MN, Phone: 507-233-9800
3. Brown County Historical Society
Explore local exhibits and discover fascinating regional history on an easy visit.
Brown County Historical Society is a museum situated along North Broadway Street in the heart of New Ulm, Minnesota. Built originally as the city’s post office in 1910, this bricked building features German Renaissance architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Inside, visitors will find exhibits displaying the history from the Dakota War of 1862, Brown County’s Century Farms, and items from Ulm, Germany. Every year more than 7,000 people visit the research library to utilize its resources and learn about the county’s families. The museum is also equipped with a gift shop that carries many souvenir items, along with several books containing local history.
2 North Broadway Street, New Ulm, MN, Phone: 507-233-2616
4. Morgan Creek Vineyards
Savor estate wines and enjoy scenic views on a romantic weekend.
Morgan Creek Vineyards is an underground winery located in the city of New Ulm, and the only one of its kind in the state of Minnesota. The winery’s underground shelter provides the ideal temperature for wine aging and production; it also creates a unique atmosphere for the gift shop and tasting room. The winery specializes in producing and growing German, American, and French-style wines and grapes, including the Minnesota cold-hardy grape. They’ve been producing award-winning wines using socially and environmentally sustainable agricultural practices since inception in 1993. The vineyard offers personalized wine tastings, a Wine Café featuring a wood-fire oven, and an exceptional Sunday brunch.
23707 478th Avenue, New Ulm, MN, Phone: 507-947-3547
5. Kiesling House
Tour a pioneer home and see frontier sights on a spring outing.
Kiesling House was built back in 1861 and is the only wood-framed residence in Brown County to remain intact to this day. Today Kiesling House is operated as a museum, which endeavors to educate visitors about the interesting origins of Brown County. The museum presents regular events and re-enactments of traditional settler skills including trades, daily chores and more. You can admire various displays, listen to musical performances, take part in craft activities and watch live demonstrations. Kiesling House is open to the public from Memorial Day to Labor Day on Fridays and Saturdays from 12pm to 4pm. A very modest entrance fee applies.
Kiesling House, 220 N. Minnesota Street, New Ulm, MN 56073, 507 351 2636
6. German Park
Walk through gardens and admire sculptures during a peaceful retirement trip.
German Park is situated along North German Street, between Third and First North Streets, in the heart of downtown New Ulm, Minnesota. During the summer months audiences spread out around the hillside to enjoy live musical performances during the park’s free concert series. The park offers a new playground complete with musical instruments, a German themed castle, and a gravity rail that is sure to provide all kinds of thrills. It also features a vibrant and well-manicured garden, a marvelous angel fountain, pavilion, and pergola. The park’s well-appointed grounds provide a gorgeous backdrop that is perfect for any party, reunion, wedding, or reception.
200 North German Street, New Ulm, MN, Phone: 507-359-8344
7. Minnesota Music Hall of Fame
Look at memorabilia and explore musical attractions on a quick trip.
Visitors will find the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame situated along North Broadway Street in the heart of New Ulm, Minnesota. The idea for the museum originated back in 1962, to honor musicians, past and present, that have significantly contributed to Minnesota’s music scene. The museum features several categories that reflect the wide range of musical heritage presented throughout the state’s history. It features memorabilia of musical groups and individual musicians, along with photographs of the Hall of Fame’s inductees. Prince, Judy Garland, Whoopee John, and Bob Dylan are just a few of the great Minnesota music legends that hold a rightful spot in the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame.
27 North Broadway Street, New Ulm, MN, Phone: 507-354-7305
8. Schell’s
Visit the brewery and taste craft beer on an exciting tour.
Schell’s is an established brewery popular for its German pilsners and lagers located in New Ulm, Minnesota. All it took to start this extraordinarily successful brewery was a thirsty German, a talented brewmaster, and loads of passion. Schell’s is now the oldest family-owned brewery in Minnesota, and the second oldest in the United States. With the acquisition of Grain Belt in 2002, the brewery became the largest in the state of Minnesota. The brewery offers daily tours that start in the Museum of Brewing, where visitors can learn about the founding family’s history. From there, the tour explores the brewery itself before finishing up in the Rathskellar Tap Room for an assorted beer and root beer sampling.
1860 Schell Road, New Ulm, MN, Phone: 507-354-5528
9. Hermann the German
Climb the monument and admire panoramic sights on a summer adventure.
Hermann the German, also known as Arminius, was the leader of the Cherusci tribe – a Germanic tribe from the forests and plains of northwestern Germany. He famously led the coalition of allied Germanic tribes to victory against three of Roman’s legions in the Battle of the Teutoburg Forest, in the year of 9 AD. Since 1897 the iconic 32-foot-tall copper statue has brandished its Teutonic sword over the city of New Ulm. The monument features the copper statue above a beautiful, white cupola that’s supported with 10 columns, and stands 102 feet tall. This historic landmark is a must-see when visiting New Ulm, Minnesota.
10 Monument Street, New Ulm, MN, Phone: 507-233-4300
10. Wanda Gag House
Explore the artist’s childhood home and discover creative stuff with kids.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Wanda Gag House is located in the city of New Ulm, Minnesota. Built in 1893, this restored two-and-a-half story home features Queen Anne architecture, and was the childhood residence of internationally acclaimed printmaker, artist, and illustrator Wanda Hazel Gag. The house displays an incredible collection of artifacts, books, and art relating to Wanda Gag and her family’s history. Some of the pieces that can be seen include paintings, drawings, and lithographs by Wanda, as well as paintings by Flavia Gag and Anton Gag – two of Wanda’s very talented siblings. Be sure to check out the Anton Gag, Exploring a Lifetime Devoted to Art exhibit.
Wanda Gag House, 226 North Washington Street, New Ulm, MN, Phone: 507-359-2632
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Ideal for blooming flowers and outdoor events.
Bingham Hall Bed & Breakfast – A charming historic stay.
Visit Schell's Brewery – Explore one of the oldest breweries in the U.S.
Summer (June-August) – Great for festivals, outdoor dining, and hiking.
Best Western Plus New Ulm – A comfortable stay with great amenities.
Attend Bavarian Blast – Experience live music, German food, and cultural fun.
Fall (September-November) – Beautiful foliage and Oktoberfest celebrations.
Deutsche Strasse Bed & Breakfast – A cozy and welcoming stay.
Celebrate Oktoberfest – Enjoy traditional German beer, music, and food.
Plan Your Trip
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