2025 Visitor Guide

Page 1


A MESSAGE FROM OUR MAYOR

Welcome to Cottage Grove, a vibrant community nestled along the scenic Mississippi River, where natural beauty and modern amenities come together to create the perfect destination for visitors of all kinds.

Our town offers endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, with miles of trails, parks, and access to the Mississippi River. Whether you’re kayaking on the river, hiking through lush forests, or enjoying a peaceful afternoon by the water, Cottage Grove’s natural surroundings will leave you inspired.

Sports lovers will also find plenty to enjoy, as Cottage Grove is proud to host regional tournaments and events, drawing athletes and fans from across the Midwest. Our exceptional sports facilities provide a perfect setting for both recreational and competitive activities.

For those planning a wedding, Cottage Grove features several picturesque venues offering beautiful backdrops for your special day. From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, our town provides the ideal setting.

Conveniently located near the Twin Cities, Cottage Grove is the perfect mix of small-town charm and easy access to big-city amenities. Whether you’re here for business or leisure, we invite you to explore all that Cottage Grove has to offer.

FoodDrinkand

CARBONE’S KITCHEN & PUB

7155 Jorgensen Lane S, Suite 170 Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 459-6666 | cgcarbones.com

CASSINI’S PIZZERIA

8711 E Point Douglas Rd S, Suite 109 Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 459-1100 | cottagegrovepizza.com

EAGLES BAR & GRILL

11099 South Highway 61 Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 438-2121 | riveroaksmunigolf.com

JUNCTION 70

6933 Pine Arbor Dr S Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 505-0705 | junction70mn.com

LAS MARGARITAS

7165 E Point Douglas Rd S Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 768-0287 | lasmargaritasmn.com

MUDDY COW

7350 Hardwood Ct S Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 393-5678 | muddycowbar.com

SUSHI CAFE

7750 Harkness Ave S, Suite 112 Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 683-2048 | sushicafemn.com

TOM MOY CAFE FUSION

7420 80th St S, Suite 101 Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 459-9119 | tommoycafefusion.com

MUDDY COW
LAS MARGARITAS
EAGLE’S BAR & GRILL
JUNCTION 70

Skip the long lines and crowds of shoppers by spending a day at our retail stores. Everything you need is located in a 5-mile radius,

LOCAL

BOONDOCKS VINTAGE BOUTIQUE

7402 Lamar Ave S Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 340-7654 facebook.com/boondocksvintage

BRIDE AND JEWEL CO.

8599 W Point Douglas Rd S, Suite 100 Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 200-4598 brideandjewel.com

GRAY DUCK DISC GOLF

7750 Harkness Ave S, Suite 110 Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (612) 427-2768 grayduckdiscgolf.com

ZYWIEC’S GARDEN CENTER

10900 E Point Douglas Rd Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 459-3001 zywiecs.com

FAMILIAR

KOHL’S

7990 Hardwood Ave S Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 768-8590 kohls.com

TARGET

8655 E Point Douglas Rd S Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 458-8179 target.com

T.J. MAXX & HOMEGOODS

7240 E Point Douglas Rd, Suite 170 Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 768-7243 tjmaxx.tjx.com

WALMART

9300 E Point Douglas Rd S Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 846-2831 walmart.com

HOTELS

COUNTRY INN & SUITES

8350 E Point Douglas Rd S Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 768-7350 countryinnmn.com

WAKOTA INN

7125 South 80th Street Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 458-0313 wakotainncottagegrove.com

UNIQUE STAYS

CORN CRIB COTTAGE

10276 E Point Douglas Rd S Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (612) 202-2886 hopeglenfarm.com/suites

TREE HOUSE LUXURY STAY

10276 E Point Douglas Rd S Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (612) 202-2886 hopeglenfarm.com/suites

CAMPING

AFTON STATE PARK

6959 Peller Ave S Hastings, MN 55033 (651) 201-6780 dnr.state.mn.us

ST. CROIX BLUFFS REGIONAL PARK 10191 Saint Croix Trail S Hastings, MN 55033 (651) 430-8240 washingtoncountymn.gov/facilities

Before You Visit

FOR THE DAY

GRAB COFFEE

Start your day with a boost of energy at Starbucks or Caribou Coffee.

TRAVEL ITINERARY IDEAS IN COTTAGE GROVE

Whether you’re just coming for the day or staying for a full weekend, there are plenty of activities to fit your timeline. Here’s a list of ideas to keep you entertained while you’re here.

WEEKEND MUST - DOS

CHIPS AND SALSA? YES PLEASE!

Just getting to town? Stop by Las Margaritas for a refreshing margarita and fajita platter.

SHOP LOCAL

Love hand-made gifting? You’ll find that and more at Boondocks Vintage Boutique.

SCHEDULE A MASSAGE

Ease into a peaceful Saturday morning with a deep tissue massage at The Healing Place.

GRAB A BITE

Stop in for pizza, wings and an ice cold tap beer at Carbone’s Kitchen & Pub.

EXPERIENCE DODGE NATURE CENTER

Before you visit, sign up for a baking class, outdoor adventure, or family-friendly activity.

GET OUTDOORS

Any time of year, go on a hike at our 515acre Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park.

TWILIGHT GOLF AT RIVER OAKS

Watch the sunset over the Mississippi River while enjoying our 18-hole scenic course.

REFUEL

End your day with a hand-crafted cocktail and a relaxing dinner at Junction 70 Grill.

VISIT THE LITTLE VILLAGE

Have little ones with you? Swing by The Little Village for quick play and a hot coffee.

SLEEP IN THE TREES

Book your stay at our unique Tree House Suite located at Hope Glen Farm.

SHOP, EAT, PLAY, REPEAT

Take advantage of our convenient location to the famous Mall of America shopping mall.

TOP 6 THINGS TO DO IN COTTAGE GROVE

4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION

Pack a blanket and gather on the lawn for our annual picnic and firework show at Kingston Park. This family-friendly event offers food, fun and a memorable firework show at dusk.

FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL

Occurring in September, this annual event is known for its large selection of food trucks, talented live performances, a beer garden, a marketplace, free entry, and more!

STAY IN THE TREE HOUSE

This four-story tree house suite is unlike any other! It has four outdoor decks, two fireplaces, and a full kitchen. Pamper yourself in the two-person jetted jacuzzi tub and rain shower.

THE HAUNTING EXPERIENCE

Every Halloween season, a frightening fever sweeps the city with thrilling hayrides, creepy mazes, and haunted houses. If you dare, head over to Zywiec’s Garden Center.

STRAWBERRY FEST

Strawberry Fest is a four-day, family-focused event that offers something for everyone. Enjoy delicious food, fantastic bands, carnival rides, activities, and much, much more!

CPKC HOLIDAY TRAIN

Each December, crowds gather to watch the colorfully lit train roll through Cottage Grove. Free to attend, this event offers musical performances, familyfriendly activities, and more.

SPRING

1. PLAY A ROUND OF GOLF

River Oaks Golf Course

11099 Highway 61, Cottage Grove, MN

2. AN AFTERNOON OF BIRD WATCHING

Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park 9653 Keats Ave S, Cottage Grove, MN

3. CHALLENGE YOUR FRIENDS TO DISC GOLF

Oakwood Park

7851 Harkness Ave S, Cottage Grove, MN

4. BURN OFF SOME ENERGY

Woodridge All-Inclusive Playground

9000 90th St S, Cottage Grove, MN

5. ENJOY SCENIC OVERLOOK VIEWS

Camel’s Hump Park and Open Space

7600 Burr Oak Cove S, Cottage Grove, MN

Go Outside 20 OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES IN COTTAGE GROVE

Nestled on the east side of the Twin Cities metro, Cottage Grove is a hidden gem for all things outdoor recreation. With 38 parks and 2,600 acres of land, there is an endless supply of adventure to be had. Whether you prefer hiking through scenic trails, kayaking on serene waters, or cycling along winding paths, there’s an exciting experience for everyone.

Outdoor recreation not only provides a refreshing escape from daily life but also promotes health, wellness, and memories with friends and family. So grab your gear, breathe in the fresh air, and experience the great outdoors in Cottage Grove.

SUMMER

6. CATCH A FEW FISH

Hidden Valley Pond Hardwood Ave S & 70th St S, Cottage Grove, MN

7. COOL DOWN AT THE SPLASH PAD

Highlands Park 6975 Idsen Ave S, Cottage Grove, MN

8. CANOE OR KAYAK ON THE MISSISSIPPI

Hazen P. Mooers Park 10865 Grey Cloud Trl S, Cottage Grove, MN

9. EXPERIENCE THE THRILL OF PICKLEBALL

Glacial Valley Park 9900 Ravine Parkway, Cottage Grove, MN

10. GO OFF-LEASH

WAG Farms Dog Park 9475 Glendenning Rd S, Cottage Grove, MN

FALL

11. VISIT THE FARM

Dodge Nature Center’s Shepard Farm Property 8946 70th Street S, Cottage Grove, MN

12. EXPLORE A 15-ACRE CORN MAZE

Afton Apple Orchard 14421 90th St S, Hastings, MN

13. PICK YOUR OWN APPLES

Whistling Well Farm

8973 Saint Croix Trl S, Hastings, MN

14. ADVANCE YOUR CYCLE SKILLS

Cottage Grove Bike Park

7050 Meadow Grass Ave S, Cottage Grove, MN

15. PRACTICE YOUR SKATEPARK TRICKS

Hamlet Park

8885 Hamlet Ave S, Cottage Grove, MN

70th Street S & Jamaica Avenue

Free trails open every day, sunrise to sunset

Monthly activities

Garden plots

Beekeeping classes Summer camps

WINTER

16. RENT SNOWSHOES & HIT THE TRAILS

Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park 9653 Keats Ave S, Cottage Grove, MN

17. ICE FISH

Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park 9653 Keats Ave S, Cottage Grove, MN

18. GO CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING

River Oaks Golf Course 11099 Highway 61, Cottage Grove, MN

17. LACE UP YOUR SKATES

We have eight outdoor skating rinks! CottageGroveMN.gov/WarmingHouses

20. SKI OR SNOWBOARD THE ALPS

Afton Alps Ski Resort 6800 Peller Ave S, Hastings, MN Shepard Farm

DodgeNatureCenter.org/ Shepard-Farm

JANUARY

• Dust’em Off Vintage Snowmobile Show and Swap

• Winter Maker’s Market

FEBRUARY

• Blizzard Bash at Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park

APRIL

• Spring Maker’s Market

MAY

• Spring Hmong Arts & Crafts Fair

• Annual Hmong Memorial Sports Fest Tournament

JUNE

• Farmers Market (Every Thursday, June - October)

• Cottage Grove Strawberry Fest

JULY

• Fourth of July Fireworks

• Summer Market in the Ravine

SEPTEMBER

• Cottage Grove Food Truck Festival

• Annual H.O.T. Labor Day Sports Tournament

OCTOBER

• The Haunting Experience

• Fall Fun Fest | Zywiec’s

• Monster Bash Parade

• Halloween Extravaganza

• Spooktacular!

NOVEMBER

• Hale to the Bird 5K

• Pumpkin Chuck

• Holiday Maker’s Market

• Hometown Holiday

DECEMBER

• Breakfast with Santa | River Oaks

• CPKC Holiday Train

River Oaks Golf Course is a 160-acre, 6,483-yard, 18-hole municipal golf course, and driving range, offering 4 tee placements that will challenge the lowhandicapper while creating an enjoyable golfing experience for all levels of players. WHAT WE OFFER

• Season passes

• Leagues

• Professional instruction

• Tournaments and much more!

EVENTS LOVED BY OUR LOCALS

FALL FUN FEST

Looking for a Halloween experience that’s more fun than fright? This low-scare Halloween attraction is packed full of family-friendly activities. Hop on over to Zywiecs.com for more information regarding this event.

MONSTER BASH PARADE

The Monster Bash parade is an annual spooky tradition held the Saturday before Halloween, along East Point Douglas Road South. Individuals and families are welcome to dress up to participate in the fun.

HOMETOWN HOLIDAY

Join us for our annual holiday celebration at City Hall in November. With gleaming lights all around, visitors can enjoy carolers, festive games, food trucks, and visits with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and their live reindeer.

FAMILY FUN

COMO PARK ZOO & CONSERVATORY 1225 Estabrook Drive

St. Paul, MN 55103 (651) 487-8201 comozooconservatory.org | 18 miles

MALL OF AMERICA

60 E Broadway Bloomington, MN 55425 (952) 883-8800 mallofamerica.com | 19 miles

MINNESOTA CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 10 7th St W St. Paul, MN 55102 (651) 225-6000 mcm.org | 14 miles

MINNESOTA STATE CAPITOL

75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd St. Paul, MN 55155 (651) 296-2881 mnhs.org/capitol | 14 miles

MUSIC

MINNESOTA MUSIC CAFE

449 Payne Ave Saint Paul, MN 55130 (651) 776-4699 minnesotamusiccafe.com | 13 miles

THE ARMORY

500 South 6th St Minneapolis, MN 55415 (612) 315-3965 armorymn.com | 22 miles

THE FILLMORE MINNEAPOLIS

525 N 5th St Minneapolis, MN 55401 (612) 524-1901 livenation.com | 25 miles

VARSITY THEATER

1308 4th St SE Minneapolis, MN 55414 (612) 217-7701 varsitytheater.com | 22 miles While

Hastings, MN 55033

SPORTS

CHS FIELD

St. Paul Saints Baseball

360 N Broadway St Saint Paul MN 55101 chsfield.com | 13 miles

TARGET CENTER

Minnesota Timberwolves / Lynx Basketball 600 1st Ave N Minneapolis 55403, MN targetcenter.com | 23 miles

US BANK STADIUM

Minnesota Vikings Football 401 Chicago Ave Minneapolis, MN 55415 usbankstadium.com | 22 miles

XCEL ENERGY CENTER

Minnesota Wild Hockey 199 Kellogg Blvd W Saint Paul, MN 55102 xcelenergycenter.com | 14 miles

CASINOS

CANTERBURY PARK

1100 Canterbury Rd Shakopee, MN 55379 (952) 445-7223

canterburypark.com | 35 miles

MYSTIC LAKE CASINO

2400 Mystic Lake Blvd Prior Lake, MN 55372 (800) 262-7799

mysticlake.com | 37 miles

RUNNING ACES CASINO & RACETRACK

15201 Running Aces Blvd Columbus, MN 55025 (651) 925-4450

runaces.com | 36 miles

TREASURE ISLAND RESORT & CASINO

5734 Sturgeon Lake Rd Welch, MN 55089 (800) 222-7077

ticasino.com | 23 miles

Plan Your Summer or Fall Adventure.

There’s so much to do at the farm! Whether you visit us during the summer or fall, you’ll be sure to enjoy the many family-friendly activities and events we have to offer.

• Pick your own apples, strawberries, raspberries and pumpkins

• 15-acre corn maze

• Petting farm

• Hayrides

• Large playground

• Yard games

• Special events

• Retail store and so much more!

Cottage Grove offers the perfect blend of charm, beauty, and convenience for successfully hosting your wedding or special event.

HOPE GLEN FARM

10276 E Point Douglas Rd S Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (612) 202-2886 hopeglenfarm.com

RIVER OAKS (EVENT CENTER)

11099 South Highway 61 Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 438-2121 riveroaksmunigolf.com

THE MADISON 7310 Lamar Ave S Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 336-4421 themadisonmn.com

VFW POST 8752

9260 E Point Douglas Rd S Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 459-2812 vfw8752.org

BEAUTY

& ATTIRE

BELISSIMO SALON + DAY SPA

6939 Pine Arbor Drive S, Suite 110 Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 768-0828 belissimosalonspa.net

BRIDE AND JEWEL CO.

8599 W Point Douglas Rd S, Suite 100 Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 200-4598 brideandjewel.com

JUSTCUZ BEAUTY

info@justcuzbeauty.com

Serving Twin Cities, MN (651) 342-0537 justcuzbeauty.com

ULTA BEAUTY

7240 E Point Douglas Rd S, Suite 200 Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 461-6366 ulta.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS

KELLY BIRCH PHOTOGRAPHY

info@kellybirch.com

Serving Twin Cities, MN (651) 336-1659

kellybirch.com

MICHELLE HUBER PHOTOGRAPHY

info@mhuberphotography.com

Serving Twin Cities, MN (651) 983-8881

mhuberphotography.com

THE SNAPSHOT PHOTO CAMPER

thesnapshotphotocamper@gmail.com

Serving Twin Cities, MN (651) 303-0147

thesnapshotphotocamper.com

WIGGINS PHOTOGRAPHY

wigginsphotographymn@outlook.com

Serving Twin Cities, MN (612) 548-1456

wigginsphotographymn.com

OTHER SERVICES

BALLOON ARTISTRY BY MANDANA

mandana.m@comcast.net

Serving Twin Cities, MN (651) 295-7014

balloonartistrybymandana.com

COTTAGE GROVE FLORIST

8617 W Point Douglas Rd S, Suite 150

Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 459-7179

cottagegroveflorist.com

MISS SARA’S CAKERY

sara@misssarascakery.com

Serving Twin Cities, MN (651) 304-2108

misssarascakery.com

THE CUTTING GARDEN

9759 69th St S

Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (920) 609-7272

thecuttinggardendp.com

Cottage Grove Area Chamber of Commerce

Browse Our Business Directory business.cottagegrovechamber.org/list

We strive to develop, grow and support our local business network by using leadership and resources to unite our members. We work with hundreds of businesses in the Cottage Grove area. Scan the QR code to learn more!

To become a member, call 651-458-8334 or visit CottageGroveChamber.org

Cottage Grove Area Chamber of Commerce cottagegrovechamber.org | 651-458-8334

Own your very own piece of Cottage Grove and celebrate the past and present in this one-of-a-kind depiction of the city by artist Eric Dowdle.

Cottage Grove is a great place to live, visit, work, and play! Nestled along the scenic Mississippi River, Cottage Grove boasts stunning natural beauty, vibrant parks, and a strong sense of community. From its humble beginnings as a farming town, Cottage Grove has grown into a thriving suburban community. Pioneers like James Norris laid the groundwork for the city’s development, and today’s leaders continue to shape its future. Neighbors and visitors can discover over 100 miles of scenic trails or relax in one of the many community parks. The city also has a thriving business district with great places to work, shop, dine, and explore.

BUY YOUR PUZZLE TODAY

The Cottage Grove puzzle can be purchased in-person or online. Card or cash only. Sorry, no checks.

In-Person

City Hall

12800 Ravine Parkway South Cottage Grove, MN 55016 Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Order Online

Visit our website: CottageGroveMN. gov/CottageGrovePuzzle

Online orders can be picked up in-person at City Hall, or shipped directly to you for an additional cost.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Eric Dowdle is a renowned awardwinning folk artist. He is the founder of Dowdle Folk Art where he turns his paintings into puzzles, selling more than 30 million puzzles based on 400 pieces of his artwork. He has hosted television and radio programs on the topic and won numerous awards for his work.

TRANSPORTATION FOR COTTAGE GROVE

EXPRESS BUS SERVICE

Express Route 363 travels between Cottage Grove Park and Ride, and downtown Minneapolis via downtown Saint Paul. Route 363 also serves the Park and Ride lot on Hwy 61 and Lower Afton Road.

(612) 373-3333 metrotransit.org

MINNEAPOLIS - SAINT PAUL INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

MSP Airport is less than 20 miles from Cottage Grove. Whether you plan to drive yourself or utilize a rideshare service, you won’t experience the typical “airport traffic” that most travel routes often come with.

(612) 726-5555 mspairport.com

TRANSIT LINK

Transit Link is shared-ride public transportation for trips that can’t be accomplished on regular transit routes alone. Rides must be scheduled in advance.

(651) 602-5465

MetroCouncil.org/Transportation /Services/Transit-Link.aspx

UBER / LYFT

Cottage Grove is conveniently located in the Uber and Lyft rideshare bubble. Download the app to your smartphone, create an account, request a ride with your location, and enjoy a seamless travel experience.

UNION DEPOT

Union Depot is a historic transportation hub located in Saint Paul, Minnesota. A rail line runs through Cottage Grove, and the rail stop serves as a trade center and shipping point. The CPKC Railway also passes through Cottage Grove and is a main stop for the annual CPKC Holiday Train.

(651) 202-2700

uniondepot.org

A BETTER WAY TO TRAVEL.

Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP)

SUPPORTING OUR VETERANS THROUGH FAMILY, FOOD & FUN

SERVING VETERANS, SERVICE MEMBERS, THEIR FAMILIES, AND OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1945.

• Tacos and Live Music every Tuesday 5:00 - 8:00 p.m.

• Bingo every Wednesday at 6:00 p.m.

• Dine-In or Carry Out Food Menu

• Seasonal Events

• Hall Rental Available for Weddings

Anyone is welcome as our guest. Visit our website for kitchen hours, food menu or our calendar: vfw8752.org

Cottage Grove VFW Post 8752 9260 E Point Douglas Rd S Cottage Grove, MN 55016

Clubroom: (651) 459-9940

Bookings and Office: (651) 459-2812

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2025 Visitor Guide by Discover Cottage Grove - Issuu