Quick Summary:

  • Owatonna is a charming small town in Steele County, best known as the home of the Steele County Fairgrounds, which hosts the annual Steele County Free Fair.
  • Until 1945, the city was the home of the Minnesota State School for Dependent and Neglected Children, which was purchased by the city in the 1970s and converted into a living history museum campus and community arts center.
  • The beautiful National Farmer's Bank building, designed by renowned architect Louis Sullivan, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is known as one of the premiere examples of Prairie School architecture in the United States.


  • Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. The National Farmer's Bank of Owatonna ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Activities
The National Farmer's Bank of Owatonna | What to See in Owatonna, Minnesota
© Thanakorn Thaneewach/stock.adobe.com

2. The Minnesota State Public School Orphanage Museum ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Food & Drink
The Minnesota State Public School Orphanage Museum | What to See in Owatonna, Minnesota
© The Minnesota State Public School Orphanage Museum

3. Village of Yesteryear

Village of Yesteryear | What to See in Owatonna, Minnesota
© Village of Yesteryear

4. Rice Lake State Park

Category: Activities
Rice Lake State Park | What to See in Owatonna, Minnesota
© sgtlorentzen/stock.adobe.com

5. Owatonna Arts Center

Category: Attractions
Owatonna Arts Center | What to See in Owatonna, Minnesota
© Owatonna Arts Center

6. Costas Candies and Restaurant

Category: Food & Drink
Costas Candies and Restaurant | What to See in Owatonna, Minnesota
© Costas Candies and Restaurant

Summary & FAQ The National Farmer's Bank of Owatonna The Minnesota State Public School Orphanage Museum Village of Yesteryear Rice Lake State Park Owatonna Arts Center Costas Candies and Restaurant

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