2022 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
DISCOVER
MORE THAN YOU IMAGINE
The next best thing to home. Welcome to your final stop after a long day. A place where a warm smile and a cup of coffee are always waiting. Here you'll find the amenities that keep you well-connected, and the comforts that help you unplug. Suddenly, traveling seems more relaxing than ever.
Make yourself at home: • Complimentary hot breakfast • Pool and whirlpool • Meeting room • Comfortable, spacious rooms • Free Wi-Fi • Fitness center
BOOK NOW AT radissonhotelsamericas.com/countryinn Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Cottage Grove, MN 8350 East Point Douglas Rd., Cottage Grove, MN 55016 +1 (651) 768-7350 • cx_cota@countryinnamericas.com © 2022 Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Lodging Country Inn and Suites Quick access to restaurants, parks, the Mississippi River and local businesses. The Country Inn and Suites is a perfect place to stay for those who want all the comforts of home but need to stay connected. The Country Inn has its own indoor pool and is within walking distance to local restaurants. Have a question? The front desk staff is available 24 hours a day to guide you in the right direction.
Corn Crib Cottage If you’re looking for luxurious, romantic and rustic all rolled into one experience, the Hope Glen Farm Corn Crib Cottage is for you. Enjoy the two-person whirlpool, rain shower and beautiful full kitchen. The luxury villa is steps away from Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park. Take some time to relax in front of the fireplace as you admire the cottage’s vaulted ceilings and grand staircase.
Tree House Suite Relive your childhood with a stay at the Hope Glen Farm Tree House Suite. Enjoy the fireplace, outdoor decks, jacuzzi and rain shower. Search for the secret hidden room before climbing up the suite’s 40-foot tower to gaze at the stars. This cozy tree house is great for couples, solo adventurers and business travelers. Leave the kids at home for this fun getaway.
Wakota Inn Located at Highway 61 and 80th Street South, the Wakota Inn is a quick drive away from St. Paul and Minneapolis and within walking distance to several local businesses. A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily. Have a question about what to do while you’re in Cottage Grove? The front desk is staffed 24 hours a day. If you need to get some work done during your stay, check out the business center.
What;is Inside MORE THAN YOU IMAGINE
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Spring/Summer Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Get Active Outdoors. . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Best Patios in the Grove . . . . . . . . . 14 Strawberry Fest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Summer/Fall Farm Fresh. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Halloween in the Grove. . . . . . . . . . 20 Fall/Winter Holidays in the Grove. . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Winter Activities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Parks and Paths Map. . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Get Married Hope Glen Farm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 John P. Furber Farm. . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 River Oaks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Let‘s Meet Memorable Meeting Spots . . . . . . . 32
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DISCOVER COTTAGE GROVE COTTAGE GROVE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
12800 Ravine Parkway S., Cottage Grove, MN, 55016 Discover our website discovercottagegrove.com p. 9
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Discover us on social @discovercottagegrove #discovercottagegrove
Welcome to Cottage Grove Welcome and thank you for visiting our great city! As someone who grew up here, I know first-hand that Cottage Grove has plenty to offer! We hope this visitors guide will spark your imagination and get you started on exploring our city! You’ll find that Cottage Grove has convenient access to urban opportunities and is a short drive to Minneapolis and St. Paul. While we are close to the Twin Cities metro area, our community prides itself on our small-town feel. Our city offers ample recreational amenities, open spaces, shopping, restaurants, entertainment venues and top-notch lodging. When in Cottage Grove, you are always near one of the city’s 35 parks — many of them connected via our trail network. Our city also boasts one of the state’s largest inclusive playgrounds. We have a bike park, dog park, disc golf course, splash pad, municipal golf course and a state-of-the-art ice arena — just to name a few. From fast food options to sit-down restaurants, Cottage Grove has plenty to offer when it’s time for you to take a break and grab a bite to eat. Need some essentials or just love to shop? Stop by one of our locally owned or national retail shops to make your purchases. Our convenient location, friendly residents, recreational amenities, open spaces and outstanding business community all come together to make our city a great place to live, visit, work and play! Thank you for visiting Cottage Grove! Enjoy your time here!
Myron Bailey, Mayor City of Cottage Grove
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RIVER OAKS GOLF COURSE & EVENT CENTER With a great view, delicious food, a top-notch golf course and driving range, and friendly staff, River Oaks Golf Course & Event Center is a gem located just off Highway 61 on the city’s southern border. Players of every skill level will have an opportunity to enjoy the game at River Oaks. Eagles Bar & Grill, located inside, offers tasty food and a full bar for dinners and events. River Oaks also offers an event center, outdoor space and bar area for private rental to accommodate a variety of events including weddings, sports banquets, birthdays, rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, baby showers, corporate events, holiday parties and more. 6 | discovercottagegrove.com
PRACTICE YOUR SWING Located just 15 minutes from downtown St. Paul, River Oaks offers an impressive 18-hole public golf course. From tee boxes to the greens, the golf course is well-maintained and features a beautiful view of the Mississippi River. River Oaks is excited to offer Toptracer Range, the ultimate practice tool that takes the guesswork out of range sessions by offering an engaging, data-driven experience that appeals to everyone. Guests of all ages and handicaps will enjoy playing iconic courses or taking aim at virtual targets and seeing if they can climb the global leader board.
DINE OUT The Eagles Bar & Grill offers a picturesque view of the Mississippi River Valley. With its mouthwatering food, friendly staff and compelling social atmosphere, it is a great stop for a night out or to pick up food to go and enjoy in your own setting. Known for its popular fish fry during Lent and a beautiful patio in the summer, you will enjoy the setting, scenery and staff. The restaurant also offers pop-up events during the off-season. These reservation-only events feature some fan favorites from the restaurant’s previous menu along with a few special additions from the chef.
HAVE FUN River Oaks is the perfect place to get together with any group. River Oaks’ bocce ball courts and bean bag area feature an
amazing patio bar overlooking the 18th hole and the Mississippi River. This beautiful outdoor area is a great setting for a birthday party, retirement party, family reunion, team building, wedding party or any other event. They can host groups up to 200 people outside and 32 people for bocce.
GET MARRIED River Oaks offers couples a variety of amenities along with a beautiful, spacious and elegant venue. These picturesque views are great for cherished wedding photos as well. River Oaks’ attentive staff takes a hands-on approach and will be here to assist you in any way from food selection to room set up to those small lastminute details to ensure a perfect and unique event.
INSIDER INFO ▸ More information on weddings at River Oaks on page 31.
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COTTAGE GROVE BIKE PARK AT WEST DRAW PARK The Cottage Grove Bike Park is a free 3-acre urban style bike park that offers the perfect place for you to practice and improve on your BMX skills. The all-inclusive park is open dawn ‘til dusk weather permitting and includes a 4x track, two-pump track, tot track, two mountain bike skills areas and dirt jumps. One of the most popular bike parks in the Twin Cities metro area, the slope style course and tot track provide an opportunity for more kids and families to get outdoors and become active. The family friendly bike park is safe, clean and well maintained. The bike park was completely built and maintained by volunteers from the Minnesota Off Road Cyclists group. The bike park is part of West Draw Park, a 26-acre park in the Pine Summit neighborhood. West Draw Park holds a small play structure, two soccer fields, trails, open space and a picnic shelter. It is connected to Meadow Grass Park to the north and Hidden Valley Park to the east. Features: Bike park, picnic shelters, playground, two soccer fields, trails. 8 | discovercottagegrove.com
HAMLET PARK Hamlet Park is Cottage Grove‘s largest park with more than 150 acres of park, a large playground and open space. There is plenty of space for you to roam, whether you are walking your dog, enjoying a stroll with a friend or taking a run. Stroll through the park during the warmer months and you’ll likely catch a youth sporting event on one of the nine baseball diamonds or even a pickup volleyball game between friends on one of the two sand courts. There are plenty of options to enjoy the outdoors at the city’s largest park. Features: Nine baseball diamonds, two basketball courts, skate park, two football fields, picnic area, grill, picnic shelter, picnic tables, playground, restrooms, three soccer fields, two tennis courts 2-plus miles of trails, two sand volleyball courts, ice skating rink, warming house.
SKATE PARK AT HAMLET PARK
KINGSTON PARK
OAKWOOD PARK
The 55-acre Kingston Park is home to Cottage Grove’s soccer complex, boasting 11 soccer fields. Kingston is also the center of the action for the city’s annual Strawberry Fest in June. If you need a great spot to host a party, event or get-together, you can rent the park’s picnic shelter alongside its playground. Kingston is next to the Grey Cloud Elementary and Cottage Grove Middle School Athletic Complex and its trail system links to the Cottage Grove Trailway Corridor from the west and to 80th Street to the south.
Oakwood Park is home to the Cottage Grove Disc Golf Course. With over 36 acres of park land, the premier course has hosted national and world disc golf tournaments. Oakwood has a beautiful overlook of the city with several benches and picnic tables. Enjoy the picnic shelter right next to the parking lot or hike on some of the extensive trails throughout the park.
The Skate Park at Hamlet Park is a great spot to advance your skills. In the park, you’ll find bank ramps, flat rails, half pipes, grind ledges, pyramids and quarter pipes, providing plenty of opportunities to increase your Features: Two basketball courts, ability. picnic area, picnic shelters, grill, picnic tables, playgrounds, Scan the QR restrooms, 11 soccer fields, trails. code to view a map of our bike trails!
INSIDER INFO ▸ In 2022, Oakwood will be home to a brand new naturebased playground and picnic pavilion. Features: Baseball/softball diamond, disc golf, picnic area, picnic shelter, picnic tables, playground, sledding hill, trails. 2022 Visitors Guide | 9
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WOODRIDGE PARK
HAZEN P. MOOERS PARK
In addition to having sports and picnic amenities, Woodridge Park is home to one of the largest inclusive playgrounds in Minnesota. This 23,000 square foot playgrounds has something for everyone of all abilities. The 100% accessible surfacing, a sensory playground, musical instruments, 82 pieces of playground equipment and more offer kids opportunities to develop fine-motor skills and have a great time just playing!
Hazen P. Mooers Park is home to Cottage Grove’s Paddle Share System, which allows the public to kayak the Mississippi River back waters. The kayak rental system is completely self-accessible by phone or computer; you get a locker, a code and a kayak, and get on the water! (Reservations are required.) Hazen P. Mooers is also a great spot for fishing, picnicking, and bird and nature watching on the Mississippi River.
Features: ADA accessible, two baseball diamonds, two basketball courts, paved and natural trails, rental building, picnic areas, picnic shelters, grill, picnic tables, restrooms, sledding hill, two tennis courts, sand volleyball court, ice skating rink, warming house.
Features: Mississippi River access, picnic area, picnic tables, kayak/canoe launch, kayak rentals.
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INSIDER INFO ▸ Find all our park locations on our parks and paths map on page 25.
RAVINE REGIONAL PARK
AFTON STATE PARK
HIGHLANDS PARK
Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park is the only Washington County park in Cottage Grove. The 515-acre park holds beautiful hills, a lake, miles of cross-country skiing trails and heavily wooded ravines. There are activities for all the seasons at Ravine Park, such as hiking and fishing in the spring, summer and fall, and cross-country skiing and snow shoeing in the winter!
Afton State Park offers landscapes of many kinds, from glacial landforms and bluff land to forests and prairies. Camping and lodging facilities allow the park to host long-term visitors while daily park passes allow for a single day getaway. A beach along the St. Croix River rewards hikers at the end of the trail for their effort.
This 65-acre park is complete with rolling grassland, woodlands and wetlands! The gem of the park is the everpopular splash pad. On those hot summer days, the splash pad is the best place for letting the kids cool off!
Features: Cross country ski trails, fishing, hiking trails, paved trails, picnic pavilion, playground, Ravine Landing rental building.
Features: Camping, fishing, swimming, hiking, cross country skiing, interpretive exhibit, rentals, firewood, picnic area, picnic shelter, picnic tables, grills, fire rings, volleyball, horseshoes, warming house.
Features: Baseball/softball diamond, three basketball courts, rental building, football field, picnic area, grill, picnic shelter, picnic tables, restrooms, sledding hill, two soccer fields, splash pad, two tennis courts, 4-plus miles of paved trails, ice skating rink, warming house.
SHEPARD FARM 70th St S & Jamaica Ave
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Ever wanted to paddle down the backwaters of the mighty Mississippi River? Lucky for you, you can do just that right here in Cottage Grove. No equipment is required! With our paddle share program at Hazen P. Mooers Park, we provide the kayaks, paddles and life jackets. Paddle on your own in one of our single kayaks or paddle with a buddy in one of our tandems. Whenever summer rolls around, these are a big hit and are reserved quickly! Mark your calendars for the summer of 2022!
We know the disc golf scene in Minnesota is top notch, which is why the course at Oakwood Park is too. The Oakwood Park Disc Golf Course is a premier course that has hosted national and world disc golf tournaments. The course offers terrain of all kinds, from open space to wooded canopies. Short and long tees make the course perfect for disc golfers of all skill levels.
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BAGS Grab a group of friends and head to River Oaks Golf
Course for a game of bags. Or corn-hole. Whatever you call it, River Oaks’ outside bar and Mississippi River views provide the perfect change of scenery from your typical backyard game. Reservations are required so call ahead!
BOCCE BALL Head to Lamar Fields or River Oaks Golf Course for a friendly game of bocce ball. Both venues offer official courts and are free for use. Doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or a pro, the game is a fun way to get outside and get moving.
GOLF
HIKING
River Oaks Golf Course offers an impressive 18-hole public golf course featuring a beautiful view of the Mississippi River. There are 57 sand bunkers and three ponds located amongst the course, which offer slight challenges for experienced golfers and fun obstacles for those still new to the sport! Check out the Toptracer Range, the ultimate practice tool that takes the guesswork out of range sessions by offering an engaging, datadriven experience that appeals to everyone.
The city offers several wellkept parks filled with trails where you can explore. A short drive will take you to Afton State Park, Carpenter Nature Center or St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park, all great options for adventurers looking to stretch their legs in the great outdoors.
BIKING In addition to miles of bike trails in our parks, Cottage Grove Bike Park is home to a paved pump track, a dirt pump track, four progressive dirt jump lines, a slope style course, a 4x track, a tot track and two mountain bike skills areas. Don’t forget! You
can always get rolling by checking out the many miles we have along the Mississippi River Trail as well.
POINT DOUGLAS PARK A Washington County Park that boasts a very popular beach and fishing at the confluence of Mississippi and St. Croix rivers. It is also a trailhead for the Point Douglas Regional Trail that leads from Prescott to downtown Hastings.
INSIDER INFO ▸ View page 25 for our handy parks and paths map. ▸ Scan the QR code on page 9 to view our bike map.
DAYCARE • BOARDING • GROOMING
“I would highly recommend Hound Around. My pups Jude and Rocco love Hound Around. Jude has been going to Hound Around for three years. All I need to say is Hound Around and he pops up and wants to go. The staff and owners are always so friendly and welcome you and your pups any day or time. I use the daycare for them. The place is clean. They have a webcam you can watch your pups while they are there. Wonderful place to bring your pups.”
Visit our website or call us and book today: houndaroundresort.com
Best Patios in the Grove Sometimes nothing sounds better than a meal and a cold beverage while sitting outside enjoying a beautiful Minnesota afternoon or evening with friends or family. Cottage Grove has several outdoor eating options that fit the bill so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery and the sunshine.
MUDDY COW BAR & GRILL Located just north of 80th Street South and East Point Douglas Road, the Muddy Cow Bar & Grill is locally owned and operated and features appetizers, burgers, sandwiches, wraps, pizzas, soups, salads and several mouth-watering entrees. Have a sweet tooth? Try the mini 14 | discovercottagegrove.com
donuts or loaded funnel cake fries for dessert. Muddy Cow’s patio is a great spot to enjoy their gooey cheese curds, mouthwatering burgers and 2-for-1 drinks every day, all day. Open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.
JUNCTION 70 Follow your nose to the corner of 70th Street South and Hinton Avenue South to Junction 70, the perfect place to grab a craft beer and a pizza. Maybe a hand-cut steak, juicy burger or authentic BBQ is more your style. Junction 70 has a huge menu for taste buds of all kinds.
The restaurant features a gorgeous, full-service patio leading directly into the bar through three glasspaned garage doors that let in natural light and warm summer air. There is a game room for the kids (and grownups, too). Open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
LAS MARGARITAS If you’re craving authentic Mexican food, look no further than Las Margaritas Mexican Restaurant. Conveniently located on East Point Douglas Road, Las Margaritas is family owned and operated. Their outdoor patio offers a cozy
setting to sip a delicious margarita while treating your taste buds to fresh chips smothered in Las Marg’s famous cheese dip. You can enjoy a full menu of authentic Mexican favorites like quesadillas, fajitas, flautas and fried ice cream Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Valley. The incredible food, friendly staff and compelling social atmosphere make it a must stop for a spring or summer night out. During the warm-weather months, the patio is a great spot to check out the chef’s latest creations while taking in the action of the practice range and enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
EAGLES BAR & GRILL AT RIVER OAKS
INSIDER INFO
Just off Highway 61, Eagles Bar & Grill at River Oaks Golf Course offers a picturesque view of the Mississippi River
▸ Visit the Discover Cottage Grove website at discovercottagegrove.com to see a full listing of our restaurant options!
Dennis Brothers Liquors 651-458-8932 7155 Jorgensen Ln. S., #150 - Cottage Grove
Cottage Grove’s ONLY Locally-owned Liquor Store! MN’s #1-Rated Beer Store!
10% OFF! Any purchase of Wine/Spirits EXCLUDES SALES ITEMS
Expires 12-31-22 Cannot be combined.
Strawberry Fest 9195 75th St. S., Cottage Grove| cottagegrovestrawberryfest.com The Cottage Grove Strawberry Fest is a four-day, family focused event that offers something for everyone. An estimated 20,000 to 25,000 people will enjoy wonderful food, fantastic bands, a carnival and much more! Neighbors, family and friends from Cottage Grove and surrounding areas come to the event — typically held the third weekend in June — to celebrate while they relax and enjoy the kick off to summer. Cottage Grove’s rich history includes multiple strawberry fields dotting the city’s landscape. People carried home buckets filled to the brim with juicy berries turning them into delicious treats for everyone to enjoy. That’s why our annual community festival has a strawberry theme — to keep that connection to our past alive! Our community fest has evolved since the first celebration — Fun Fest — in the 1960s. Strawberry Fest in its current form first began to take shape in the mid-1980s with a multi-day carnival that included a kiddie parade, Little Miss Strawberry Shortcake contest, BMX races and an old-fashioned ice cream social at Cedarhurst Mansion. In the 1990s, the annual festival had several names including the Celebrate Cottage Grove Festival and the Great Grove Get-Together. Fast forward to 2006 when the event found its way back to one of its original names — Strawberry Fest, a moniker that has stuck ever since. Strawberry Fest found its home at Kingston Park that year as well. The Cottage Grove Strawberry Fest is run completely by community volunteers whose goal is to make as much of the event free to the public as possible. There is no admission fee or cost to watch the main stage events/live entertainment. The mission of Cottage Grove Strawberry Fest is to bring the community together. From residents, businesses, city government, sponsors and nonprofit organizations, volunteers take pride in creating an event in which everyone can be proud. Strawberry Fest is one of the community’s favorite events each year. We hope you’ll join us for some fun, food and friendships.
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Bubble gum-blowing contests and carriage rides were highlights during the fest’s early days. Since then, Strawberry Fest has grown to include live music, a large parade, fair food, a carnival, a business showcase and more, including: Bean bag tourney Fireworks Doggie dash Kids tractor pull Pet show Car show
Softball tourney Pie eating contest Talent show Water wars Public safety events 5K run
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FARMERS MARKET
WHISTLING WELL FARM
7008 Lamar Ave. S., Cottage Grove 651-399-8869 | cguccfarmers’market
8973 St. Croix Tr. S., Hastings 651-459-3500 | whistlingwellfarm.com
The Cottage Grove Farmers Market runs every Thursday throughout the summer and into the fall. Featuring all your favorite fruit and vegetables, as well as some unique varieties from local farmers, the market is the perfect place for all your farm to table needs.
Like another well-known apple picking option in the area, Whistling Well Farm has a lot to offer in terms of picking and activities. What makes Whistling Well unique is its laid-back, easy going nature. With no admission fee it’s a great spot to get out and be in nature, while keeping the flexibility of hopping in the car just before nap time.
• Homemade beauty products: Soaps, lotions and bath bombs. • Sweets: Syrups, honey, candies, jellies and baked goods. • Goods: New, used, and homemade clothing and jewelry. Grab some hearty ‘farm to you’ meats for the family and top it off by bringing your knives, scissors and shears to the mobile knife sharpener! And if you don’t feel like cooking dinner, opt for the hot off the press hot dogs or the various food trucks that stop by each week!
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•A pple Picking: Eight delicious varieties. • Pumpkin Patch: Pumpkins of all sizes. •M ums: Colorful mums for the perfect fall decor. •C ountry Store: Preserves, jellies, pumpkin butter, pancake mixes, maple syrup and so much more! • Other fun: Kids climbing area and petting farm. Before leaving, toss a coin into the whistling well and make a wish! Money is matched dollar-fordollar by the farm, and donated to the University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital.
AFTON APPLE ORCHARD 14421 90th St. S., Hastings 651-436-8385 | aftonapple.com Whether you want to enjoy the sun and summer breeze picking fruit in the fields, or bring the kids over for a fun day of play and quality time spent with family, Afton Apple Orchard offers a wide variety of things to do just outside Cottage Grove. • Apple Picking: Delight in the 15 varieties of apples to choose from. Pick your own or select our pre-picked options. • Berry Picking: Raspberries, blackberries, and black raspberries to choose from! • Pumpkin and Gourd Picking: Pumpkins, squash, gourds and ornamental corn for decorating, carving, and cooking needs. • Shop: Pick up packaged items like frozen pies and crisps, jams, local honey, baking supplies, gifts and more. • Hot and Fresh: Craving something sweet, salty or robust? Opt for the warm apple cider, donuts, hot dogs, cider brats, and other fall favorites. Need a break from picking out your fresh and ripe take-aways? No problem! Say hi to the goats and llamas as you stroll past the petting farm, let the kids play on the playground or have a picnic together in the shade. There are so many things to do at Afton Apple Orchard you really can make a day of it!
SPECIAL EVENTS In the fall, join Afton Apple for their apple festival weekends full of magic shows, yard games and more. Another fall favorite? The giant 15-acre corn maze with all the twists and turns, and mini mazes you can imagine.
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Spooky? Fun? Kid-friendly? Cottage Grove has something for everyone and is the perfect place to celebrate Halloween. After you check out the exciting parade, head on over to Zywiec’s Garden Center to get your scary fix. The center’s Haunting Experience is enough to give anyone the chills — and maybe even a few Halloween nightmares. Not a fan of big scares and screams? The Fall Fun Fest is a more playful option filled with Halloween attractions.
PUMPKIN CHUCK Toss it. Launch it. Roll it down a slide. Join us the day after Halloween for your last chance to wear your costume and get rid of your Halloween pumpkins in a fun way. For location and times, visit discovercottagegrove.com.
MONSTER BASH PARADE The Monster Bash parade is an annual family fun tradition held the Saturday before Halloween along East Point Douglas Road South. Individuals and families are welcome (and encouraged!) to dress up to participate in the fun. Typically held in the late morning, this is a perfect event to add to your Halloween activity round-up. Find out more at cottagegrovestrawberryfest.com 20 | discovercottagegrove.com
THE HAUNTING EXPERIENCE
FALL FUN FEST
Every Halloween, a frightening fever sweeps the nation with thrilling hayrides, creepy mazes, and haunted houses. If you dare, head over to the Haunting Experience located at Zywiec’s Garden Center to experience a night filled with your darkest nightmares.
Halloween doesn’t always have to be about a spine-chilling experience. If you are looking to dip your feet into something a little less scary and more playful, head over to Zywiec’s Garden Center where you’ll find family-friendly Halloween fun including:
The Haunting Experience has all of the attractions you need for a fun Halloween scare as well as live music on select nights.
THE HAYRIDE
• Goat feeding and petting • Hayrides • Coloring station • No-scare haunted house tour • Pumpkin painting station • Sand art station
Gather up your family and friends and take a ride on Minnesota’s longest consecutively running ▸ Both the Haunting Experience and the Fall haunted hayride; now in its 36th year! Fun Fest can be found at Zywiec’s Garden Center 10900 E. Point Douglas Road S. Beware! This hayride is not for the faint of heart. Cottage Grove 651-459-3500 | zywiecs.com It’s filled with spine-chilling surprises as you go through the haunted forest and the terrors of Wilhelm Steelworks. Along the way, you will also encounter creatures that lurk along the trails. Be careful, they might turn you into one of them!
THE HAUNTED HOUSE After the hayride, test your grit through one of the scariest haunted houses that you’ve ever encountered. The Haunting Experience’s famous haunted house is filled with perils and dark entities that are hungry for screams of terror. 2022 Visitors Guide | 21
Holidays in the Grove HALE TO THE BIRD 5K When three friends had a tradition to run the downtown Minneapolis turkey day run Thanksgiving morning, but found themselves frustrated with the parking, huge crowds, and inability to run at a comfortable speed, they decided to start their own Thanksgiving 5K right here in Cottage Grove! Fliers were created, t-shirts were ordered and a charity was even chosen to support and receive any of the proceeds. The organizers thought that if they could get 15 people signed up, that would be great, and now they get hundreds of runners each year! The Hale to the Bird 5K has become an annual 22 | discovercottagegrove.com
event that continues to grow, but is proud to maintain the charm of a small run! For location and times, visit discovercottagegrove.com.
CITY HALL TREE LIGHTING Every year on the first Wednesday of December, Santa comes to town riding a shiny red fire truck to kick off Cottage Grove’s holiday festivities. The Annual City Hall Tree Lighting is a hallmark of the city’s holiday events. Carolers, warm apple cider and cookies all add to the holiday charm. This is also a chance to get your photos with Santa and drop off the kids’ holiday wish lists in the mailbox for the North Pole! Scan the QR code to view current and upcoming events.
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CANADIAN PACIFIC HOLIDAY TRAIN Each December, hundreds gather to watch the festive Canadian Pacific (CP) Holiday Train roll through Cottage Grove. The colorfully lit line of train cars is decked out for the holidays in a cheery glow and for many families is an annual holiday tradition. Often called North America’s largest rolling food bank fundraiser, the CP Holiday Train raises money, food and awareness for food banks and hunger issues across Canada and the United States. “The Holiday Train is all about the community coming together over the holiday season and helping each other out with donations to local
charities,” says E. Hunter Harrison, CEO of CP. “CP continues to be grateful that our train of lights and top musical talent are welcomed with open arms and that this has become a holiday tradition in our communities.”
SANTA BREAKFAST AND SLEIGH RIDE Bring the whole family to River Oaks Golf Course for Breakfast with Santa! Hosted annually the second Sunday in December, admission includes a North Pole breakfast, time for a photo with Santa, a sleigh ride and s’mores! This event is the perfect way to get in a jolly holiday mood.
INSIDER INFO ▸ For more information and upcoming event dates, visit discovercottagegrove.com 2022 Visitors Guide | 23
s e i t i v i t c A r e t Win STAR TRAIL
HIKING
SNOWSHOEING
The Star Trail consists of 140 miles of snowmobile trails between Scandia and Hastings. For some added fun, the trails and feeder trails run right up to a few restaurants in Cottage Grove: the VFW Post 8752 and Carbone’s Kitchen and Pub. You can also pull into the Cottage Grove Holiday Station to fill up on gas and snacks.
Our parks have miles of paved hiking trails, in addition to the Cottage Grove Trailway Corridor and the Central Greenway Regional Trail. If you’re in need of a short hike, head to Highlands Park that has 2-plus miles of paved trails, or try Hamlet Park for a 1 or 2 mile walk around the gorgeous pond. Opting for unpaved natural trails? Head to Ravine Regional Park or Grey Cloud Sand Dunes Scientific and Natural Area, for a hike through nature in its purest form.
Strap on your snowshoes and embrace the cold and snow in Cottage Grove. The city offers 33 neighborhood parks and 10 trails where you can spend some time in nature during the winter months. River Oaks Golf Course and Event Center turns its golf course into trails in the winter, making it a beautiful option for cross country skiing or snowshoeing.
AFTON ALPS Located just 10 miles from Cottage Grove, Afton Alps is the perfect place for winter thrill seekers. With a variety of terrain features, there’s something for downhill skiers and snowboarders of all skills and abilities. 24 | discovercottagegrove.com
ICE FISHING Two ponds in Cottage Grove provide ample opportunities for ice fishing; Ravine Regional Park, stocking Walleye and Sunfish, and Hidden Valley Park, which stocks Sunfish.
SLEDDING & SKATING The city’s numerous parks offer a variety of sledding hills from small to large. Not a fan of sledding? Strap on your skates and head to the outdoor rinks available at Hamlet, Hearthside, Highlands, Peter Thompson, Woodridge and Pine Tree Valley parks. The city’s ice arena is also an option.
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Cedarhurst Meadows Park
Glacial Valley Park
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Scan the QR code to view the map on your mobile device.
Planned Parks/Open Space
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USBR 45 - Mississippi River Trail Bikeway
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Broadway Ave
Central Greenway Regional Trail
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Parks and Open Space Map 3rd St Grey Cloud Island Dr
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DISCOVER COTTAGE GROVE PARKS AND PATHS MAP Adventure into the great outdoors and explore local parks, trails and amenities using our map below
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Hope Glen Farm
10276 E. Point Douglas Road S., Cottage Grove 612-202-2886 | hopeglenfarm.com
RUSTIC ELEGANCE If your dream wedding is a combination of elegant and rustic, Hope Glen Farm is the place for you to say “I do.” The historic and picturesque farm offers a restored Civil War-era barn and large pavilion and is surrounded by the serene views of the 500-acre Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park. The “Our family and farm has beautiful friends raved about outdoor landscapes this beautiful, combined with charming, quaint rustic elements that wedding dream.” will make your big day unforgettable. - Regina A. One of the best parts? Your big day is made easier because you can have your ceremony and reception all in one place. The farm’s peaceful pasture provides the perfect backdrop for your vows. Have a rustic indoor/outdoor happy hour before moving to the pavilion for your reception. End the night in the historic barn dancing with your family and friends.
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Photo credits, see p. 34
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John P. Furber Farm 7310 Lamar Ave. S., Cottage Grove 651-336-4421 | johnpfurberfarm.com
ROMANTIC COUNTRY Gothic architecture comes together with a gorgeous scenic natural landscape to provide a unique and special backdrop for your wedding at John P. Furber Farm. If you want to host a big event that will be the talk of the town, Furber Farm has got you covered with enough room for up to 500 guests. The centerpiece of the farm is a gothic, archedroof dairy barn built in the 28 | discovercottagegrove.com
1940s that adds to the rustic elegance that will make your wedding day unforgettable. The farm offers both an indoor and outdoor option for your reception and the staff will be right by your side to make sure your special day is as fun and stress-free as possible.
Photo credits, see p. 34
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SUPPORT VETERANS BY HOSTING YOUR EVENT AND DINING WITH US
Cottage Grove
Tuesday Tacos with live music from 5-8 p.m. Bingo every Wednesday at 6 p.m. Karaoke every Friday at 8:30 p.m. pulltabs and etabs for sale Hall Rentals for events at a reasonable price Membership not required | Kitchen open Monday - Friday starting at 4 p.m. 9260 E. POINT DOUGLAS RD. S.
651-459-2812
MYEVENT@VFWPOST8752.ORG
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River Oaks Golf Course & Event Center
11099 Highway 61, Cottage Grove | 651-438-2121 | riveroaksmunigolf.com
SCENIC SIGHTS Breathtaking views of the Mississippi River Valley coupled with an elegant venue, delectable food and friendly staff make River Oaks Golf Course and Event Center the perfect place for your big day. River Oaks takes the stress out of your wedding day so you can take time celebrating your new lives together with your family and friends. Your guests have plenty of places to comfortably enjoy
sweeping views of the golf course and the Mississippi River Valley, which are both great spots to have photos taken. River Oaks staff pride themselves on their hands-on approach, helping you with food selection, room set-up, and any last-minute details. They work hard to ensure your wedding is perfect and unique. River Oaks’ amazing food will be the talk of all your guests.
“I could not have asked for a better venue. The clubhouse and grounds are absolutely gorgeous, and they make it easy for you to go from a romantic ceremony to a rocking reception with no hassle, and for a fantastic price. ” - Jane K. 2022 Visitors Guide | 31
Memorable Meeting Spots IN COTTAGE GROVE
Cottage Grove offers multiple locations to host your event, from classy to casual. No matter what kind of space or environment you need for your event, Cottage Grove can accommodate. Check out these venues where you can get a change of scenery.
COUNTRY INN AND SUITES The Country Inn and Suites makes having out-of-town meetings easy. Holding up to 40 guests, all they have to do is book a room and walk down the hall. The hotel has a wedding and event coordinator who can arrange catering for you and customize your event to meet all your scheduling and activity needs, including making a custom event website. The hotel also offers special group rates and room blocks for your entire party. Pictured above, classrooms A & B inside the HERO Center in Cottage Grove off of Highway 19.
COTTAGE GROVE ICE ARENA The Cottage Grove Ice Arena hosts parties, trade shows, corporate events, concerts and everything in between. One of the rinks at the arena can be cleared off to create 17,000 square feet of floor space, enough seating for 1,200 people, an additional 600 in the bleachers, and standing room for 300. This space also fits 82 10’x10’ booth spaces. Concessions and vending areas are available on site, or you can bring in your own food.
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FURBER FARM The historic Furber Farm boasts over 12,000 square feet of floor space and can accommodate 1,750 people, with indoor and outdoor spaces that are equally beautiful. The grandiose 19th century dairy barn is surrounded by a patio, balconies and a lush natural landscape. To keep a lively atmosphere, send your guests to the dance floor or the game room. This unique space is sure to make your event memorable. Pictured to the right, a circus themed event hosted at the property.
Pictured above: Woodbury Community Foundation hosts circus-themed Woodbury Friends Fest 2021 at Furber Farm.
HERO CENTER The HERO Center has a variety of rooms available for rental. Capacities and seating for rooms range from 24 to 120 people and include a kitchenette. Public safety agencies that rent meeting rooms also have other amenities they can add to their rental, including indoor and outdoor reality-based rooms and a training simulator.
HOPE GLEN FARM Hope Glen is a historical farm renovated to become the perfect setting for weddings, cocktail hours, corporate functions and other special occasions. The farm can host a sit-down dinner for up to 250 guests, or an open house style event for up to 1,500. The staff
can help with setting up teambuilding activities, ceremonies, silent auctions, dances, games and other activities. While you’re there, you can also rent out their unique, luxury suites: the Tree House and the Corn Crib Cottage.
RAVINE LANDING Ravine Landing, our newest facility on this list, is nestled amongst 515 acres of beautiful scenery in Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park. Inside, 84 chairs, eight round cafe tables and 12 rectangular tables are available for use, along with a lectern, audio and video technology and a kitchenette.
RIVER OAKS GOLF COURSE & EVENT CENTER With the capacity of up to 200 guests, you can get all your business done inside and then head outside for the fun. Treat your guests to golf, bocce ball and corn hole. The Golf Course and Event Center is located on the banks of the Mississippi River and offers some gorgeous views.
VFW POST 8752 The rental hall at the VFW in Cottage Grove is a great space for everything from weddings to birthday parties to club meetings. With a capacity of about 200, it can accommodate intimate gatherings or medium-sized groups. 2022 Visitors Guide | 33
(651) 336-4421 7310 Lamar Ave. S johnpfurberfarm.com info@johnpfurberfarm.com @furberfarm
Photography by: The Lauren Rose Collective
PHOTO CREDITS
Beyond the Pine Photography, p. 28, 29 Canadian Pacific Railway, p. 22, 23 C&C Photography, p. 28, 29 Eric Vest Photography, p. 29 Jeannine Marie, p. 3, 27 Julie Prior-Miller, p. 4, 6, 10, 18, 20, 23 Nathan Klok, p. 4, 5, 8, 17, 24, 31 Shane Long Photography, p. 26, 27 Siever’s Creative, cover, p.3, 4, 9, 10, 12, 14 Tessa June Photography, p. 27, 29 Whitney Abrahamson, p. 28 Woodbury Community Foundation, p. 33 Zywiec’s, p.21
Businesses at-a Glance
There’s more to discover in Cottage Grove than you imagine! Below, find the at-a-glance guide to view additional businesses and shops. *Since the printing of this guide, list may not be up to date. Not listed? Let us know! Email discovercottagegrove@gmail.com.
Fitness and Nutrition Anytime Fitness GNC Grove Nutrition National Karate Academy Orange Theory Planet Fitness Snap Fitness Training for Warriors Whenever Fitness Center Food - Fast Casual Chipotle Mexican Grill Lisu Thai Taste Noodles & Company Sushi Cafe Food - Fast Food Arby‘s Burger King Caribou Coffee (2 locations) Culver‘s Hy-Vee Market Grill Express Jimmy John‘s McDonald‘s Starbucks (3 locations) Subway (3 locations) Taco Bell Wendy‘s Food - Pizza Bella Pizza Cassini‘s Pizzeria Domino‘s Pizza Papa Murphy‘s
Pizza Hut Rocco‘s Pizza Food Sit-Down Restaurants Applebee‘s Grill & Bar Carbone‘s Kitchen & Pub Eagles Bar & Grill Ho King Junction 70 Grill Las Margaritas Muddy Cow Tom-Moy Cafe VFW Wahlburgers Grocery and Liquor Stores ALDI Cub Foods Dennis Brother Liquors G-Will Liquors Hy-Vee Top Ten Liquors Von Hanson‘s Meats Health and Beauty All About Nails B&G Hair Bellisimo Salon and Day Spa Fantastic Sams Gloss Salon Great Clips (2 locations) The Healing Place New Century Salon Pretty Nails Red Nails Sally Beauty
Salon 80 Hair Studio Salons by JC Sports Clips Whole Health Massage LLC Orchards and Gardens Afton Apple Orchard Whispering Gardens Whistling Well Farm Zywiec‘s Garden Center Pet Supplies and Grooming Chuck and Don‘s Pet Food & Supplies Cottage Grove Animal Hospital Hound Around Resort La Pooch Grooming Lisa‘s Fabulous Paws Park Grove Pet Hospital PetSmart Retail Shops ACE Hardware Boondocks Vintage Boutique Cottage Grove Florist Dollar Tree HomeGoods Goodwill Kohl‘s Menards Rustic Floral and Boutique Target TJ Maxx Walmart 2022 Visitors Guide | 35
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