Home to the world-renowned Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, is distinguished by its culture of caring and warm hospitality.
“Minnesota’s Rochester is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the country, and our city is also a welcoming, scenic destination for visitors,” said Mary Gastner, interim executive director of Experience Rochester MN. “We’ve experienced a culinary renaissance that’s transformed our city into a regional dining destination in recent years, our vibrant downtown offers a thriving nightlife scene, and our tranquil beauty sets Rochester apart. Also, our festivals and events are second-to-none. Visitors and residents love our weekly summer market and music festival — called Thursdays on First & 3rd — and they come in droves to our annual ice bar festival, called SocialICE.”
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Experience Rochester MN
507-288-4331
experiencerochestermn.com
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Rochester Trolley & Tour Company offers a wide range of guided tours in and around the area. Among its signature group tours are Rochester City & Mayo Historical Trolley Tour, Old Order Amish Country Tour, Scenic Mississippi River Valley Tour and Great River Road “Middle” Wine Trail Trolley Tour.
DISCOVER
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Head to Mayowood Mansion, built in 1911 by Dr. Charles H. Mayo, and home to three generations of the famous family. See an extensive decorative arts collection, gardens and antique furnishings from French, Spanish, German and American cultures. Regular tours are offered from mid-April through October, with a seasonal Christmas tour in November and December.
ENJOY
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Head to Silver Lake Park for biking, observing the giant Canada geese and strolling around Silver Lake, a freshwater reservoir located at the South Fork of the Zumbro River. Bikes and tandem bikes, including a recumbent tandem trike, are available to rent at Silver Lake Boat & Bike Rentals. Canoes, electric paddleboats and kayaks also are available for rent.
SHOP
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Downtown Rochester offers dozens of one-of-a-kind independent shops. Check out the Shops at University Square and Grand Shops. It never dips below 68 degrees in Rochester, thanks to its climate-controlled skyway and underground walkways, otherwise known as subways. Remember, there’s no sales tax on clothing in Minnesota.
