Need a peaceful lakeside getaway with Midwestern charm? Head to Fairmont, Minnesota! Relax along five beautiful lakes, explore cozy parks, and enjoy a friendly small-town atmosphere. Whether you're boating, biking, or exploring local history, Fairmont is perfect for a quiet escape surrounded by nature.
When I like to visit
The best time to visit Fairmont is in summer and early fall (June–September). Warm, sunny weather is ideal for boating, fishing, hiking, and attending lively local fairs and festivals by the lakes.
Tips for getting There
- If you are traveling by car: Fairmont is located along Interstate 90, about 2.5 hours southwest of Minneapolis and 1.5 hours from Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
- By Air: Fly into Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) and rent a car for a scenic drive, or use Fairmont Municipal Airport for small private flights.
- By Bus: Jefferson Lines provides regional bus service connecting Fairmont to nearby towns and cities.
Where I like to stay
- Hampton Inn Fairmont – Modern, comfortable hotel with free breakfast and easy access to local lakes and parks.
- Super 8 by Wyndham Fairmont – Affordable, convenient lodging for road trippers and families.
- Quality Inn Fairmont – Pet-friendly hotel with amenities like an indoor pool, close to downtown attractions.
Best Things to Do
1. Fairmont Opera House
A historic building on the National Register of Historic Places, the Fairmont Opera House serves as a center for entertainment and historical arts and has been an important part of the local community, adding to the city and surrounding area’s quality of life, for around 150 years. The “opera house” presents seasons of live performances every year, with the space used for professional and local plays, local events, arts performances, and live music. It’s also used as an event venue for private gatherings and receptions. Tours of the Fairmont Opera House can also be scheduled with at least three days notice.
45 Downtown Plaza, Fairmont, MN 56031, Phone: 507-238-4900
2. Red Rock Center
The Red Rock Center in Fairmont, Minnesota is an arts center located within a historic and beautiful building dating back to 1898. The center displays a broad array of fine art created by both established and emerging artists. Different visual artists are featured at the Red Rock Center each month and there is no admission fee to view their artwork. There are also free shows featuring local performers the second Tuesday of the month, as well as an array of musical concerts hosted at the center, such as piano, strings, cultural, jazz, swing, big band, and more.
222 E Blue Earth Ave, Fairmont, MN 56031, Phone: 507-235-9262
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
3. Graffiti Corner
The Graffiti Corner in Fairmont is owned and operated by two Fairmont natives: Patti and John Kasper, who have maintained a connection to the local community throughout both of their lives. The site gets its name from an old “lumberyard graffiti shed” that had been there for more than fifty years. The Graffiti Corner’s new building acts to preserve the historic landmark and uses parts of the original shed materials in its design. The Graffiti Corner today is an inviting and refreshing gathering place in town that serves as a full-service coffee lounge and place to get frozen treats.
1500 S. State St, Fairmont, MN 56031, Phone: 507-749-2007
4. Tami's on the Ave
Tami's on the Ave is a family-friendly dining destination in Fairmont, Minnesota. Open daily for lunch and dinner, this restaurant and bar offers a range of different steaks, sandwiches, salads, homemade soups, burgers, pasta, and seafood. In addition to the casual dining room, Tami’s on the Ave also consists of a banquet room for private parties and events on the lower level and a bar setting with seating. While many things have changed since the restaurant first opened its doors in the Fairmont community in 2001, something that hasn’t changed is their commitment to provide customers with the best.
2710 Albion Ave, Fairmont, MN 56031, Phone: 507-235-8979
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Relax at Cedar Creek Park – Enjoy picnicking, hiking trails, and playgrounds along the lakeshore.
- Boat or fish on Fairmont’s Chain of Lakes – Explore interconnected lakes perfect for water recreation and scenic views.
- Explore the Martin County Historical Society Pioneer Museum – Dive into the area’s rich pioneer and agricultural history.
- Golf at Interlaken Golf Club – Tee off at a scenic 18-hole course nestled among Fairmont’s lakes and trees.
- Bike or hike the Fairmont Trail System – Discover miles of paved paths through parks, lakes, and quiet neighborhoods.
Where I Like to Eat
- Bean Town Grill – Upscale American dining featuring steaks, seafood, and craft cocktails.
- The Ranch Restaurant – Local favorite for hearty homestyle meals and breakfast classics.
- China Buffet – Casual spot offering a wide selection of Chinese and American comfort foods.
My favorite local events:
- Interlaken Heritage Days (June) – Celebrate Fairmont’s heritage with parades, live music, food vendors, and community fun.
- Martin County Fair (August) – "Minnesota’s other great fair" with livestock shows, concerts, rides, and classic fair food.
- Glo Run (June) – Fun evening race with glow-in-the-dark fun for all ages at Cedar Creek Park.
My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes of Fairmont, Minnesota:
- Blue Earth, Minnesota (25–30 min) – Visit the giant Jolly Green Giant statue and charming small-town shops.
- Winnebago, Minnesota (20–25 min) – Stroll quiet downtown streets and explore historic churches and parks.
- Fox Lake (15–20 min) – Perfect for fishing, boating, and summer cabin getaways in a peaceful rural setting.
- Welcome, Minnesota (10–15 min) – Quaint village with antique shops and proximity to lakes and outdoor recreation.
- Granada, Minnesota (10–15 min) – Small town with rural charm and a friendly community vibe.
- Lake Belt Township (20–25 min) – Birdwatching, farmland vistas, and quiet lakes for relaxing day trips.
Plan Your Trip