MINNESOTA • WISCONSIN TRAVEL GUIDE 2019
LAKE PEPIN AREA ON THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER
>> 100 MILES OF ART BIKING BIRDING BOATING SHOPPING VINEYARDS & MORE!
MISSISSIPPI-RIVER.ORG
MISSISSIPPI VALLEY PARTNERS
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www.mississippi-river.org | 2019 Mississippi River/Lake Pepin Area Travel Planner Guide
www.mississippi-river.org | 2019 Mississippi River/Lake Pepin Area Travel Planner Guide
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>> 100 MILES OF FRIENDS
Photo by Ben Threinen
100 Miles of Lake Pepin
Reads Landing, MN . . . 23
History and Museums . 5
Wabasha, MN . . . . . 30-35
Outdoor Activities . . 6-7
Kellogg, MN . . . . . . . . . 36
Shopping and Taste . 8-9
Winona, MN . . . . . . 37-39
Events . . . . . . . . . 10-11
Alma, WI . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Amenities . . . . . . 24-25
Nelson, WI . . . . . . . . . . 41
Map . . . . . . . . . . 26-27
Pepin, WI . . . . . . . . 42-44
Wine Trail . . . . . . 28-29
Stockholm, WI . . . . 45-47
Red Wing, MN . . . . 12-15
Maiden Rock, WI . . 48-49
Lake City, MN . . . . 16-21
Hager City, WI . . . . . . . 50
Frontenac, MN . . . . . . . 19
Prescott, WI . . . . . . . . . 51
Camp Lacupolis, MN . . 22
Mississippi Valley Partners Mississippi Valley Partners (MVP) is a non-profit organization founded in 1992 for the purpose of promoting the communities along both sides of the Mississippi River in the area of Lake Pepin. Visit www.mississippi-river.org for more information about events and to order additional travel planners. Publisher - Evans-Stark Design vicki@esdgraphics.com, www.esdgraphics.com
Welcome to one of the most beautiful regions in North America! Many people visit to enjoy the fantastic scenery throughout the Lake Pepin area. Others consider this to be their favorite destination for a wealth of outdoor activities that include hiking and biking, bird and wildlife observation, fishing and hunting, golfing, private and excursion boating, and snowmobiling or skiing. Our quaint and idyllic villages and towns feature many museums, interpretive centers, antiques, and unique shops! The unparalleled diversity of our restaurants and pubs ensures the perfect solution for every gastronomical desire! The visitor that spends more than a day will be pleasantly surprised by the huge variety of friendly lodging accommodations. Everything from tent camping to luxurious hotels and quaint B&B’s are eager to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. In addition to the many festivals and events put on throughout the year by our local communities, Mississippi Valley Partners sponsors the popular 100 Mile Garage Sale each May, featuring several hundred vendors throughout each of our communities and attracts thousands of bargain hunters! Experience the 100 Miles of OldFashioned Christmas during the first weekend of December. As you travel throughout our area stop and introduce yourself, enjoy our company, frequent our businesses, thoroughly enjoy our activities, and go home with warm memories of your 100 miles of new friends!
The Mississippi Valley Partners
Cover photos: Photographer Ben Threinen.
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www.mississippi-river.org | 2019 Mississippi River/Lake Pepin Area Travel Planner Guide
>> 100 MILES OF HISTORY
Minnesota Marine Art Museum Winona, MN
Goodhue County Historial Society Red Wing, MN
Discover Mississippi River Lake Pepin’s Legends Experience Lake Pepin area history and more along the Great River Road in Minnesota and Wisconsin. There are numerous history centers and museum to visit. Stop at the various historical markers to learn more along the way. Within Winona are four museums, one tells the story of the 146-year old Watkins products. Another museum chronicles the history of the Polish pioneers. The Winona County Historical Society offers three museums, annual events, a research archives, workshops, classes, tours and programs. The Marine Art Museum specializing in marine art features five galleries of world-class art and artifacts including impressionism and Hudson River School paintings, marine art, folk art sculptures
& MUSEUMS
Castle Rock Museum Alma, WI
Great River Road Visitor and Learning Center Prescott, WI Pottery Museum of Red Wing Castle Rock Museum, Red Wing, MN Alma, WI on the bluffs of the mighty Mississippi River. In and traveling exhibits. In Wabasha visit the Lake City visit the Water Skiing Museum at famous National Eagle Center to meet live the only working lighthouse on the Mississippi bald and golden eagles up close. Reads River and the enjoy a tour of the Lake Pepin Landing has a historic school house. In Bay Pearl Button Museum. City visit the River Bluffs History Center and adjacent Conlin Log House. Pepin is home to In Red Wing see the Goodhue County the Laura Ingalls Wilder museum and cabin Museum display of collections of the natural features many items Laura and her family and cultural history of the area. The Pottery would have recognized and recalls the era Museum of Red Wing has over 6,000 in which she lived. Alma has a city museum vintage pieces of artisan-crafted stoneware, downtown and the Castlerock Museum and art pottery. A Military Museum displays a features arms, armor and art from the Dark significant collection of military artifacts. Be sure Age Warriors, Vikings, Romans and more. to visit the Red Wing Shoe Museum. Buffalo County Historical Museum is in the Swan Vision in Maiden Rock, WI presents Buffalo County Courthouse. Fountain City focused exhibitions of contemporary offers a Toy and Auto museum. art, illuminating the living artists’ take on In Prescott the Great River Road Visitor transformational practice, interbeing and and Learning Center is at the gateway to alignment with life on planet Earth. Wisconsin’s Great River Road located high 5 www.mississippi-river.org | 2019 Mississippi River/Lake Pepin Area Travel Planner Guide
>> 100 MILES OF
THE GREAT OUTDOORS FISHING
The Lake Pepin area is the place to come for abundant fishing opportunities. Lake Pepin offers large lake fishing on the 25,000 acre lake, big river fishing in the main channel or backwaters and trout stream fishing on numerous small rivers and streams that flow into the Mississippi River. For fishing conditions and information:
Minnesota stream fishing: (including licenses, regulations and maps): www.dnr.state.mn.us/fishing/trout_streams/ index.html or call 1-888-646-6367. Wisconsin: dnr.wi.gov/topic/fishing or by calling 1-888-936-7463. Stream maps: dnr.wi.gov/topic/fishing/ trout/streammaps.html.
Lake Pepin: Minnesota DNR Area Fisheries 651-345-3216. Lake Pepin fishing map available, call 1-877-525-3248.
PARKS AND WILDLIFE AREAS
MINNESOTA Hok-Si-La Park, Lake City. Offers 252 acres of spectacular views of the Mississippi River, Lake Pepin, and the surrounding bluffs. Overnight camping. Frontenac State Park, Frontenac. A birdwatcher’s paradise. The 2,961 acres park Is one of the best spots in the country to view birds migrating in the spring and fall. Overnight camping. 6 6
Weaver Dunes Wildlife Area, Kellogg. This 819 acre area contains a rolling and dune topography on a terrace where the Mississippi, Chippewa, and Zumbro rivers once came together. John A. Latsch State Park, Winona. Visitors relish a grand long view of the Mississippi River Valley in this 1,654-acre park. Enjoy spectacular colors in the fall. Day use only.
www.mississippi-river.org || 2019 2019 Mississippi Mississippi River/Lake River/Lake Pepin Pepin Area Area Travel Travel Planner Planner Guide Guide www.mississippi-river.org
WISCONSIN Merrick State Park, Fountain City. This 322acre park is popular with anglers and boaters. The marshy backwaters are home to a variety of fish, birds, animals and plants. Overnight camping. Tiffany Wildlife Area, Nelson. A diversity and abundance of wildlife habitat on more than 13,000 acres. One of the state’s largest, continuous bottomland hardwood forests. Primitive camping. Photo by Ben Threinen
BIRDING
View birds from land, water or air. Lake Pepin is a mecca for birdwatching throughout the year. November to March: View American Bald Eagles from roadside pull-offs on Hwy. 61 by Reads Landing, at Covill Park in Red Wing, and the lock and dam in Alma. Inside viewing is available at the National Eagle Center in Wabasha, Wings Over Alma Center and Great River Road Visitor and Learning Center and Heritage Center.
March to May: Tundra Swans and pelicans migrate. See raptors including hawks and falcons. View songbirds, “warblers,” in early May at Hok-Si-La City Park in Lake City and Frontenac State Park. Hang Gliding in Lake City allows bird lovers a whole new perspective from the air. Frontenac State Park offers visitors a bird book and bird list. An excellent backwater car route by Fountain City; Hwy 35 on to Co. OO, follows the river. Try birding by boat excursions.
Fall Migration: Tundra Swans stop off at Rieck’s Lake Park near Alma and in the Weaver Bottoms. Free Area Birding Maps and Brochures and Spring Migration Birding Festival information are available at 1-877-525-3248 or 608-6853303. For maps www.wigrr.com/activities/ birds-and-other-wildlife/birding-maps or www. lakecitymn.org/what-to-do/bird-watching. Photo by Ben Threinen
BOATING
View the Bluffs from the Lake The numerous sailboats that you see on Lake Pepin are a direct result of our area’s unique geological topography. The constant breezes that descend down through the valleys create ever changing wind patterns on the Lake, making it one of the top five sailing areas in the entire world!
Marinas in the area, such as Alma, rent boat slips. And you can launch your own boat at numerous public landings on both sides of the River.
Love to sail? Experience cruises, instruction or team building while sailing with Gem Sailing. No matter how you like to enjoy the water, our region has the experience you are looking for! Visit for maps http://wigrr.com/activities/ boating-boat-tours/boating-maps
Don’t have a boat? No Problem! No visit to the area is complete without relaxing aboard a scenic, narrated cruise on the authentic paddlewheel boat, Pearl of the Lake offers entertaining and educational Mississippi River Photo by Ben Threinen 7 www.mississippi-river.org | 2019 Mississippi River/Lake PepinPepin AreaArea Travel Planner Guide tours. www.mississippi-river.org | 2019 Mississippi River/Lake Travel Planner Guide 7
>> 100 MILES OF SHOPPING
& ARTS
The Country Store, Pepin ,WI
Norhtern Oak Amish Furniture, Stockholm, WI
SVJ Creatives, Kellogg, MN
Secert Heart's Gallery, Maiden Rock, WI
Island Fireworks, Hager City, WI
One-of-a-kind treasures are abundant when shopping for artistic flair in the Lake Pepin area. From unique local cottage industry to finds from around the world, quality is everywhere.
Hunt for antiques at Lake Pepin Pearl Button Co., Lake City, MN, Treasures Under Sugar Loaf, Winona, MN and Main Street Exchange, Red Wing, MN. Find hand-crafted furniture at Northern Oak Amish Furniture in Stockholm, WI.
Find textile art and quilting materials at Burlington Hotel & Quilt Shop, Alma, WI. You'll also find yarn and gifts at Hugga Bugga and at Savvy, style trends and choices in clothing, jewelry, home decor, art, seasonal items in Stockholm, WI.
Local items, art, clothing and gifts can be found at Treats and Treasures, Lake City, MN and Sandy's, Stockholm, WI. Find special items for the kitchen at the Palate in Stockholm, WI.
In Kellogg, MN, are two unique stores LARK toys, a toy emporium with a hand craved carousel and SVJ Creative Designs creates concrete statues and ornaments. 8
The Historic Pottery Place Mall, Red Wing, MN has an array of shops in an historic building. Red Wing Pottery & Stoneware, Red Wing, MN, has made world famous pottery since 1877. The Green Queen in Maiden Rock, WI offers
www.mississippi-river.org | 2019 Mississippi River/Lake Pepin Area Travel Planner Guide
Treats & Treasures Lake City, MN
Pride of Nations, Wabasha, MN
native plants, outdoor mats, garden decor plus soaps, balms and lotions. On the same block, artist B.J. Christofferson offers spiritual figures, symbols and icons in her 3-D artwork at Secret Heart Gallery. The Country Stop, Pepin, WI offers an eclectic blend of gift shops, seasonal produce, gourmet foods, yard art and furniture. Find cultural treasures in Maiden Rock, WI at Cultural Cloth showcasing women artisans around the world, handmade home dĂŠcor textiles and accessories. And in Wabasha,MN at the Pride of the Nations you'll find authentic Native American arts and crafts. In Red Wing, MN visit The Uffda Shop offering fine Scandinavian gifts. Shop for Fourth of July at the large selection of fireworks at Island Fireworks in Hager City, WI.
>> 100 MILES OF TASTE
Lake House on Pepin Restaurant Stockholm Pie and General Store
Liberty's Restaurant & Lounge
DINING Unparalleled diversity of our restaurants and pubs ensures the perfect solution for every gastronomical desire! Grab a quick snack or a romantic dinner on your journey around Lake Pepin.
Beth's Twin Bluff Cafe
The Chocolate Escape
Reads Landing Brewery
Take in lake-views and lake-side dining at the newly opened Lake House on Pepin Restaurant in Lake City, MN.
pies and lunch, Stockholm, WI and handmade treats at the Chocolate Escape in Wabasha, MN.
Enjoy family dining at the long-standing traditions of Libertys Restaurant & Lounge, Red Wing, MN.
Take in the hearty home-style cooking at family owned Beth’s Twin Bluff’s Cafe, Nelson, WI,
Make your sweet tooth happy at Treats & Treasures, Lake City, MN, Stockholm Pie and General Store a variety of home-made
Enjoy hearty pub fare at Reads Landing Brewery Co. with an unobstructed view of the river.Try the crumpious pizzas & calzones at Red Wing Brewery.
VINEYARDS & BREWERIES & MORE Red Wing Brewery
Maiden Rock Winery & Cidery
A Toast to Local Vineyards and Brewed Specialty Beers! Grab a locally-made beer and good food at Red Wing Brewery, Red Wing, MN and Reads Landing Brewery with a view of the Mississippi River in Reads Landing, MN. The Great River Road Wine Trail includes 11 vineyards, most of which are
Danzinger Hoppy GirlVineyards Brewery
in the Lake Pepin area. Experience the wineries tours and tasting rooms. Visit www.greatriverroadwinetrail.org for more information and see pages 28-29 for a map of all the Great River Road Wine Trail vineyards. Around the Lake Pepin area visit Maiden Rock Winery and Cidery, Stockholm, WI offers unique collection of premium hard ciders and
Rush River Produce
wines – produced from fresh, local fruit and Danzinger Vineyards, Alma, WI offering grape wines are estate wines, we use all of our own grapes, make and bottle the wine on-site. Rush River Produce in Maiden Rock, WI Pick Your Own Berry Farm has delicious blueberries, black currants, red currants and gooseberries.
www.mississippi-river.org | 2019 Mississippi River/Lake Pepin Area Travel Planner Guide
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>100 MILES OF EVENTS RED WING, MN
ALMA, WI
RED WING COLLECTOR’S SOCIETY – JULY 11-13
ALMA MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL
Annual Convention. Commemorative distribution and silent auctions, pottery demonstrations, education sessions, show and sale, displays, kids program, social events. Over 150 vendors of stoneware, dinnerware, and art pottery. RedWingCollectors.org.
LABOR DAY SUNDAY (EVERY YEAR)
A day of music and hand-made art on the shores of the Mississippi. Alma Beach and Marina, off State Hwy 35. www.almawisconsin.com. BIRDING BY MINI-TRAIN – MAY 4 AND SEPTEMBER 28
Wings over Alma. Take the birding train to bird watch. www.wingsoveralma.org
TREASURE ISLAND POW WOW – JULY 12-14
Dancers and drummers from the US and Canada. Indian arts, handmade crafts, jewelry, and traditional Native American food. Free. 800-554-5473. RedWing.org
ANNUAL HOLIDAY STROLL – NOVEMBER 29
An old-fashioned Christmas celebration on the day after Thanksgiving. Come see Santa and Mrs. Claus, baby reindeer, and fireworks as we light up our downtown district. Get an early start on your holiday shopping, enjoy the lighted parade! www.redwingholidaystroll.com.
MAIDEN ROCK, WI SUMMERFEST – JUNE 28
A fun-filled day with a silent auction, parade, live music, and spectacular evening fireworks. maidenrock.org or Facebook - Maiden Rock Area Community Association.
COUNTRY CHRISTMAS – DECEMBER 7
LAKE CITY, MN TOUR DE PEPIN – JUNE 1
Eight hundred bicyclists choose between three route levels of 32, 50, 72 or 100 miles around Lake Pepin. www.lakecity. org
WATER SKI DAYS–JUNE 28-30
Celebrating the birthplace of water skiing! Live bands, beer garden, water ski show, carnival, food, car show, arts and crafts. www.lakecity.org
JUNK CRUSH SEPTEMBER 14-15
Lake City is the place to be for vintage, antiques, primitive, re-purpose, up-cycle, salvage finds, plus food and entertainment! www.lakecity.org
PEPIN, WI THE LAURA INGALLS WILDER DAYS FESTIVAL SEPTEMBER 14-15
Laura Ingalls Wilder Park. Events include a parade, “Pepin Laura” contest, demonstrations, arts and crafts booths, lots of good food and great entertainment for the whole family. (No alcoholic beverages at the festival) www.LauraDays.org, www.lauraingallspepin.com
Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser. Santa’s elves, kids select a toy and a hand-made Christmas ornament. Milk and cookies. Pictures and a gift from Santa. Hot chocolate and cookies, wagon rides around Village Park, Christmas specials. maidenrock.org.
PRESCOTT, WI PRESCOTT DAZE – SEPTEMBER 6-8 Car show, street dance, vendors, kids events, parade and more! www.prescottdaze.com EVENTS AT FREEDOM PARK
The Center features rotating exhibits of local artists’ work. Each exhibit runs approximately 6 weeks. Educational and community events. Visit www.freedomparkwi.org for details.
FRONTENAC, MN OLD FRONTENAC 160TH ANNIVERSARY – SEPTEMBER 21
A gala celebration of its 160th anniversary, on Saturday, September 21, to commemorate and honor its heritage and historic significance to Minnesota. Educational events and displays are planned throughout the community. Area food vendors will provide a variety of scrumptious food. Self-guided tours of the village historic sites and buildings, a cemetery walk in the Old Frontenac Cemetery, a Civil War tribute, and live enactments of period skilled workers and craftsmen.
WINONA, MN GREAT RIVER SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL JUNE 25 - AUGUST 4
Annual festival that produces dynamic productions of Shakespeare’s plays. Winona State University, www.grsf.org
VOICES FROM THE PAST CEMETERY WALK OCTOBER 12-13
Bringing to life those from the community’s past who are buried in the Woodlawn Cemetery. www.winonahistory.org
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MINNESOTA BEETHOVEN FESTIVAL JUNE 30 - JULY 21 This premiere festival
transforms Winona into a classical music Mecca. Featuring the Minnesota Orchestra, Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, violinist Sarah Chang, So Percussion , and Kenny Broberg, piano and much more! www.mnbeethovenfestival.org
www.mississippi-river.org | 2019 Mississippi River/Lake Pepin Area Travel Planner Guide
100 MILES OF > EVENTS www.mississippi-river.org
Visit www.mississippi-river.org to see all events in the Lake Pepin area for 2019
WABASHA, MN SOAR WITH THE EAGLES - WEEKENDS IN MARCH
Celebrate this great eagle migration with our SOAR with the Eagles festival. Flying bird shows, live animals, eagle programs, a raffle and more! National Eagle Center. 651-565-4989, www.nationaleaglecenter.org/events
TASTE OF WABASHA - APRIL 27 A Taste of Wabasha offers great food from the area’s best restaurants, a silent auction and an evening with the eagles! Support the eagle ambassadors, engage in programs and view inspiring exhibits of the National Eagle Center. 651-565-4989, www.nationaleaglecenter.org/events SEPTOBERFEST - SEPTEMBER 6-OCTOBER 26 Join us for the Annual SeptOberfest celebration. Our small rivertown showcases fall like no other-artistic displays of pumpkins, cornstalks, flowers, bales and gourds among the natural beauty of the river valley. It is truly an explosion of color. 651-565-4158, www.wabashamn.org/septoberfest
STOCKHOLM & PEPIN, WI
STOCKHOLM, WI
FLYWAY FILM FESTIVAL
STOCKHOLM GOD JUL
OCTOBER 10-13
An international festival of new indie films showing at venues in Stockholm and Pepin. The festival has become one of the most acclaimed film festivals in the country. Its small-town setting allows an unusual degree of interaction between film creators and their audience. www.flywayfilmfestival.org
A three-week long small town holiday experience featuring some of the most exceptional shopping and gifting opportunities in the region. DEC 7TH - A SWEDISH CHRISTMAS DEC 14TH - A HANDMADE HOLIDAY DEC 21ST - FIRE OF STOCKHOLM
AROUND LAKE PEPIN
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NOVEMBER 11-12 – 10 am-5 pm Start your celebration of the season by enjoying holiday foods and wines on the Great River Road Wine Trail. Receive a wine trail glass and a six-bottle wine tote at the first winery visited. Their ticket and wine glass will entitle the holder to free wine and food tasting at each winery. You can pay for your ticket at the winery or online. Online purchasers should bring their receipt to the first winery visited. Plan to enjoy the event for the entire weekend, and visit all nine wineries. Start as far away as you can, and work your way home! $25 per person. $10 for designated drivers. Visit www.greatriverroadwinetrail.org.
Experience the 100 Mile Christmas Celebration, held the first weekend in December. Each of our Villages and Towns decorate their homes, storefronts, and streets to celebrate a good old-fashioned country Christmas. You will find special deals and unique gifts in the informal, quaint environment of our small towns. Discover the scenic winding roads that bring you to the talented artists and craftspeople you will meet along the way. Come celebrate the Holidays as they were meant to be! www.100MilesofChristmas.org
0M
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HOLIDAY HARVEST WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL
DECEMBER 7-8
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Enjoy a long weekend of romance and adventure on the Great River Road Wine Trail! This special event presents ample opportunities to sample fine food and wine, from Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa. Each winery on the Great River Road Wine Trail will feature their award winning wines and ciders paired with an array of local foods designed with gourmet flair. In addition to local foods, some wineries will also feature live music by local talent. Receive a wine trail glass and a six-bottle wine tote at the first winery visited. Their ticket and wine glass will entitle the holder to free wine and food tasting at each winery. Pay at the winery or online. Online purchasers should bring their receipt to the first winery visited. $25 per person. $10 for designated drivers.
100 MILES GARAGE SALE, MAY 2-5 Lake Pepin historic river towns and two states clean out their attics, garages and basements to create the most spectacular garage sale around! Bargain hunters can start anywhere along the river road - Minnesota or Wisconsin - rain or shine. Mississippi Valley Partners sponsors the 100-mile Garage Sale that spans all towns along Lake Pepin. Find participating sales from Hastings, MN south on Hwy. 61 to Winona, MN, across the river to Fountain City, WI and North on Hwy 35 to Prescott, WI you’ll find deals, steals and fun. Don’t miss it! Visit www.100MileGarageSale.org.
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JUNE 8-9 – 10 am-5 pm
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JUNE BLOOM WINE EVENT
R I VA L L E Y PA
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FLOOD RUNS SPRING - APRIL 20 AND FALL - SEPTEMBER 21
One of the oldest and largest runs in America. The Flood Run has always been a charity event - from throwing sandbags in 1965 to buying a Benefit Wristband to support some great kids today for Gillette Children’s Specialty Health Care! It is estimated that over 30,000 motorcycles come to the run. Motorcycles ride the Wisconsin and the Minnesota side of the Mississippi River Valley. Ride either side of the river, join in wherever you like, cross at any of the bridges from Hastings to Winona.
www.mississippi-river.org | 2019 Mississippi River/Lake Pepin Area Travel Planner Guide
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RED WING > MINNESOTA www.redwing.org | 800.498.3444
Your Gateway to a Great Get-Away
> The neoclassical Red Wing Depot, which houses the Red Wing Visitors and Convention Bureau and the Red Wing Art Gallery, was built in 1904. It still serves as a functioning Amtrak depot.
> The Cannon Valley Trail, which was built on a converted railroad line, runs from Red Wing to Cannon Falls, Minn. The trail offers a unique and scenic way to view the area on a bike or on foot.
> The Prairie Island Indian Community hosts its annual Wacipi Celebration Powwow in July. This event features dancers and drummers from the United States and Canada.
> Red Wing’s one-of-a-kind shops are a refreshing break. Its unique galleries, specialty merchants, antique stores and boutiques please a variety of visitors.
Red Wing, like so many other towns on the early frontier, rode the waves of prosperity.
August features car shows, a Venetian boat parade, arts and crafts fair, grandstand events, an ice cream social, and, of course, a huge parade.
Red Wing always bounced back, however, due in part to its prime location. Set on bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River about one hour south of the Twin Cities, the city attracts nature lovers, shoppers, diners, architecture and history buffs, and tourists of all interests. Red Wing’s downtown is filled with restored buildings, including the ornate Sheldon Theatre with top-notch plays and musical performances.
When summer turns to fall, the leaves are vibrant and beckon the “leaf lookers” to town from around the region. In the wintertime, Red Wing’s beauty shines through and warms the community spirit. Each February and March, hundreds of bald eagles come to Red Wing to perch high in cottonwood trees along the banks of the Mississippi River.
Spring, summer and fall, hundreds of flower baskets hang from lamp posts, and the river comes alive with barges, fishing and excursion boats. Visitors can enjoy a picnic in a landscaped park or dine in one of Red Wing’s noted fine restaurants. River City Days, the community’s annual festival held the first week in
Watching these majestic birds in flight has become an annual tradition in town, attracting photographers and tourists from across the region. Eagle Watch weekends are held annually on the last three weekends of February and the first three weekends in March. The best location from which to view the eagles is Colvill Park in Red Wing, just off Highway 61. Scopes are available, but be sure to bring your binoculars and cameras to capture the full flavor of the moment.
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RED WING > MINNESOTA
www.mississippi-river.org | 2019 Mississippi River/Lake Pepin Area Travel Planner Guide
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RED WING > MINNESOTA
Visit the world’s LARGEST and most EXTENSIVE collection of Red Wing clay products!
MORE THAN 9,000 VINTAGE PIECES PLUS A BEAUTIFUL GIFT STORE AWAIT YOU!
240 Harrison Street - Red Wing, MN 651.327.2220 FREE ADMISSION
Open Tuesday-Saturday 9-5, Sunday 11-4
(Closed New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve & Christmas Day)
PotteryMuseumRedWing.org 14 www.mississippi-river.org | 2019 Mississippi River/Lake Pepin Area Travel Planner Guide
RED WING > MINNESOTA
Since 1975
Great Family Dining
Corner of 3rd & Plum Streets in Historic Downtown Red Wing. Decor of Red Wingʼs Yester Years. Dine In ~ Lounge ~ Take Out ~ Delivery ~ Catering Pizza ~ Prime Rib ~ Steaks ~ Seafood ~ Ribs Fri. Fish Fry Buffet 4:30-9:00 - Sun. Brunch 9:30-1:30 Open Daily at 8 am Full menu delivery •
303 west 3rd st
•
www.libertysrestaurant.com
RWCG15
651-388-8877
Minnesota’s First County Historical Society 1166 Oak Street | Red Wing, MN
Hours: www.GoodhueCountyHistory.org Tue-Sat 9AM-5PM Sundays (April-Nov) 1-5PM
(651) 388-6024
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LAKE CITY > MINNESOTA www.visitlakecity.org | 877.525.3248
EXPERIENCE THE SOUTH SHORE OF MINNESOTA
> Lake City is the birthplace of water skiing.
> Go sailing or take a sailing lesson.
> Camp, hike, picnic, swim or cross-country ski at Hok-Si-La Park.
> Soak up the views, stroll the Riverwalk, marina and Marina Point, with nearly 360 degree vistas.
> Golf one of our four 18-hole courses.
> Year-round eagle watching.
> Home of Tour de Pepin, a bicycle & paddleboat tour of Lake Pepin.
> Search for Pepie, the Lake Pepin monster, first seen by settlers in 1871.
> Browse one-of-a-kind shops, boutiques and galleries.
> Largest marina on the Mississippi River, featuring the only working lighthouse on the entire river!
> Walking Hertiage Tree Trail at Patton Park.
Lake City is the gateway to Minnesota’s “South Shore” with seven miles of public access shoreline on Lake Pepin. Enjoy sandy swimming beaches, world-class fishing and breath-taking scenery! Lake City is the birthplace of water skiing. Invented in 1922, Ralph Samuelson used a pair of boards as skis and a clothesline as a tow rope. His brother Ben towed him and they reached a speed of 20 miles per hour. A free historic water ski display is in the Marina Building. Clams once harvested from the Upper Mississippi River accounted for nearly 50 percent of the buttons in the world. In Lake City factory workers sawed button “blanks” from clam shells before shipping the 50-pound burlap bags of clam shell cut-outs downriver to button finishing houses in La Crosse, Wisconsin, and Muscatine, Iowa. View a free Historical Society display at the Lake Pepin Pearl Button Co. Lake City offers small town hospitality and relaxation. Stroll through downtown to find specialty shops, boutiques and galleries with a wide range of unique products and local goods. Dining opportunities range from coffee shops, casual, family, gourmet or river-front options. Enjoy Hok-Si-La Park and various multiple city parks and beaches. Take a historic walking tour of the town or relax along the waterfront to view waterfowl, sailboats and barges. Stay at one of the many motels, rental condominiums, vacation houses, or B&B’s. Lake City is just 65 miles southeast of Minneapolis/St. Paul and 35 miles northeast of Rochester, MN.
>>100 MILES OF
RIVERBOATING Enjoy a 90 minute narrated leisurely cruise on Pearl of the Lake Riverboat, built as a genuine replica of an 1800’s Paddle Wheeler. The name “Pearl of the Lake” emphasizes the historic significance shared by paddlewheel boats and the freshwater pearl industry on the upper Mississippi River. Excursions are Wednesday-Sunday at 1p.m. Charters are also available. Reservations online at pearlofthelake.com. 651-345-5188.
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ESOT NN S
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PLANNING IS EASY . . .
LAKE CITY
with so many options!
ON THE WATER OR ON LAND, ENJOY LAKE CITY’S BEAUTY
Golf the Beautiful Vistas on the Mississippi River
Choose from four 18-hole courses, one designed by three time U.S. Open Winner, Hale Irwin.
Grab a Bike and Ride
Pick up a free bike or bring your own and experience the trails that Tour de Pepin has made famous.
Soar with Eagles! Hang Gliding over Lake Pepin
Ever imagined what it would be like to fly like a Eagle? Experience breath-taking views of Lake Pepin.
Charter Sailing on Lake Pepin
Check Out Trip Itineraries Online
Enjoy the beauty and exhilaration of sailing Lake Pepin surrounded by the scenic Mississippi Bluffs.
VisitLakeCity.org
877-525-3248 www.mississippi-river.org | 2019 Mississippi River/Lake Pepin Area Travel Planner Guide
17
ESOT NN S
RE
MI
A’S
T H SH
O
SO U
SMALL TOWN FEEL WITH REFRESHING ADVENTURES
The Frog & Bear, B&B
4
John Hall’s Alaska Lodge
9
Simple Blessings
3
The Sunset Motel
26
Villas on Pepin
30
Willows on the River
33
POOL
4
CONT. BREAKFAST
Dragonfly Dreams Retreat Ctr
MEETING ROOMS
•
WIRELESS INTERNET
46
KITCHENETTE
LAKE VIEWS
AmericInn
PETS ALLOWED
Lodging Amenities
NUMBER of ROOMS
LAKE CITY
• • • • • • • • Full • • • • • Full • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Find Your Treasure
Shop for antiques, fine arts, jewelery, gifts, nautical items and local clothing. Experience DIY arts and crafts and quilting. Enjoy an orchard and vineyard.
For additional lodging options with Vacation Rental By Owner please go to www.VRBO.com and enter “Lake City, MN” in search box to find over 20 additional properties listed with photos and details. Winter Activies
Enjoy multiple winter activies in Lake City including ice fishing, snow mobiling, cross-country skiing, snow shoeing, ice skating and eagle viewing.
VisitLakeCity.org
18 18 www.mississippi-river.org | 2019 Mississippi River/Lake Pepin Area Travel Planner Guide 18
A Wide Variety of Dining
From quick, casual family fare to lakeview dining – find american, mexican, asian flavors, as well as fast foods for people on-the-go.
877-525-3248
BEAUTIFUL VIEWS IN ALL FOUR SEASONS
T H SH
O
SO U
S
RE
MI
A’S
ESOT NN
LAKE CITY
Old Frontenac is having a gala celebration of its 160th anniversary, on Saturday, September 21, to commemorate and honor its heritage and historic significance to Minnesota. Numerous educational events and displays are planned throughout the community. Area food vendors will provide a variety of scrumptious food. Events include self-guided tours of the village historic sites and buildings, a cemetery walk in the Old Frontenac Cemetery, a Civil War tribute, and live enactments of period skilled workers and craftsmen. There will also be period home related exhibits.
PLANNING IS EASY . . .
with so many options!
Lake City Events
Winterfest/Fired-Up Fat Bike Tour. A weekend of winter events! Including the Fired Up Fat Bike tour. First Saturday in February. Girl Day Out. Lake City’s biggest day of shopping! Last Saturday of April. 100 Mile Garage Sale. A nationally recognized bargain shopping event. First full weekend in May. Tour de Pepin. Cyclists can revel in Great River Road ambiance for 32 to 100 miles. First Saturday in June. Water Ski Days. Three days of summer fun! Last full weekend in June. Junk Crush. Lake City is the place for salvage finds. Third weekend in September. Doe Days. A weekend of shopping and fun! Weekend of deer hunting opener. Strolls through History. Lovely, architecturally-significant 19th-century homes.
The Goodhue County Historical Society will present period authentic displays. The Prairie Island Indian Community will demonstrate the Native culture with lacrosse games, teepees and more. Some of the 19th Century lifestyle activities will include an 1800’s cornet band and vintage baseball with 1880 rules. The Living History Society of Minnesota will present a variety of 19th century activities. And displays of vintage photographs & take digital pictures of visitors. Saturday evening will feature a candlelight tour through a Civil War camp. On Sunday morning, September 22nd, at 9:30 A.M. a “Civil War pastor” will lead a “revival service.” At 11:30 a.m. the events will conclude with a community potluck picnic in Wakondiota Park. For more information, visit www.frontenac160.com.
VisitLakeCity.org
877-525-3248 www.mississippi-river.org | 2019 Mississippi River/Lake Pepin Area Travel Planner Guide
19
LAKE CITY > MINNESOTA
20 www.mississippi-river.org | 2019 Mississippi River/Lake Pepin Area Travel Planner Guide 20
LAKE CITY > MINNESOTA
Open Year Round!
Lodge 1127 N. Lakeshore Drive Lake City, MN 55041 651.345.1212
Toll Free: 800.325.2270 www.SleepAlaska.com All Lake View Rooms Walking Distance To Downtown Weekly Rates November - April Pet Friendly Standard Suites Complimentary Wireless Internet Full Kitchens or Kitchenettes www.mississippi-river.org | 2019 Mississippi River/Lake Pepin Area Travel Planner Guide
21
CAMP LACUPOLIS > MINNESOTA www.camplacupolis.com
Nestled among hills and forests on the shores of southern Lake Pepin, just off Hwy 61 between Wabasha and Lake City, lies a secluded, peaceful little village of log cabins and fisherman’s campers. The rustic village, founded in 1861 by European settlers, was a stagecoach stop at the end of a trail leading from the hills, visitors would camp overnight and travel to Lake City by boat. The name “Camp Lacupolis,” means “Camp Lake City” in Greek. The Mississippi was a main artery of commerce and transportation for the native people and new settlers. Loggers floated logs down the Chippewa River and held them in the large bay until steamboats arrived to take the huge masses of logs farther downstream for use in building. “Steamboat Bay,” as it became known, is now one of the
many choice fishing spots near Camp Lacupolis. Lake Pepin boasts of great fishing, including walleye, small and large mouth bass, northern pike, panfish, and striped bass; eagles have returned in great numbers, beautiful wildflowers and perennial gardens. An area just outside the camp harbor is a choice spot to catch your limit of walleye, sauger, northern, striped bass, smallmouth bass, large-mouth bass and panfish. Or try your luck in the main channel or the quiet bays and backwaters. The camp has many seasoned fishermen who are willing to share their favorite fishing spots up and down both sides of the lake. Camp Lacupolis features many amenities including: rustic log cabins, large multi-family group cabins and romantic sunsets, a concrete boatlaunching ramp, a protected harbor with dock space, dockside gas, bait house and fish-cleaning area.
22 www.mississippi-river.org | 2019 Mississippi River/Lake Pepin Area Travel Planner Guide
READS LANDING > MINNESOTA www.wabashamn.org • www.cityofkellogg.org | 800.565.4158
A Present Day Hamlet with a Wealth of History and Nature The present day hamlet of Reads Landing was not always the quiet small village it is today. During its day, the community had 27 hotels, numerous saloons, stores, warehouses and churches. The village, located at the confluence of the Chippewa and Mississippi rivers, was a natural center for commerce and transportation. Fur-laden canoes and countless logs were transported down the rivers to Reads Landing and then sent to other distant locations. The town’s first European settler was Edward Hudson, a soldier under Colonel Snelling. He came in 1841, married a daughter of Duncan Campbell and settled on her property. Hudson then put up a building on the riverfront and it became known as Hudson’s Landing. Hudson died 1843, and the property was purchased by Charles R. Read. Read established a trading post, which became a steamboat landing. In 1850, a post office was built.
Reads Landing Brewing Company Craft Brews & River Views
Hand Crafted Beers & Delicious Food Situated on the banks of the Mighty Mississippi River. Summer outdoor dining & excellent eagle viewing in the winter!
Commerce increased on the Chippewa, mills were built, and Reads Landing became a landmark for many years until the invention of the railroad changed the landscape forever. The two-story brick schoolhouse in Reads Landing was the second built in Minnesota. The design was similar to the first brick schoolhouse built in Red Wing. Ground was broken for the school in 1870 and it served as a school until 1965. Today it serves as the Reads Landing Museum and is owned and operated by the Wabasha County Historical Society. Artifacts collected throughout Wabasha County depict life in early rural Minnesota along the Mississippi River.
FOUNDING OF LAKE PEPIN
Hours: Wednesday & Thursday 11am-9pm Friday & Saturday 11am-10pm-Sunday 12pm-9pm Closed Monday & Tuesday
(651) 560-4777 • www.rlbrewingco.com 70555 202nd Ave., Reads Landing, MN
including Fort Saint Antoine, in 1786. In 1727 René Boucher de La Perrière and Michel Guignas built Fort Beauharnois. Today the Villa Maria Conference Center stands near the site.
NATURAL HISTORY OF LAKE PEPIN Model of Fort Beauharnois
In 1703 The lake was first named in a map of New France made by Guillaume Delisle, named after Pépin le Bref, king of France and father of Charlemagne. Nicolas Perrot erected a number of fur trade posts,
In 1850, General Land Office surveyors of Lake Pepin passed through tall grass prairies, scrubby-brush lands, oak savannas, oak-hickory groves, wet marshlands, maplebasswood forests, and lowland forests, crossing many streams, ponds, lakes, and rivers. The uplands around Lake Pepin
were hilly and very rugged. Deep ravines dissected the landscape and here surveyors noted springs that contained trout - a fish found only in the purest waters. Today, most of the oak savannas, brush lands, and prairies of the uplands are gone due to agriculture, urban development, and fire suppression. The forested areas remaining are highly fragmented. In the floodplain many forests, marshes, and prairies remain intact within wildlife refuges. Lake Pepin has a surface area of about 40 square miles and an average depth of 25 feet. The Mississippi River’s largest lake, Pepin is 21 miles long and averages nearly two miles across.
www.mississippi-river.org | 2019 Mississippi River/Lake Pepin Area Travel Planner Guide
23
>100 MILES OF AMENITIES 100 MILES OF > SHOPPING ALMA, WI 1
see ad on
Pg 40
Pg 40
HAGER CITY, WI N1597 County RD VV • 715.792.2283 www.island-fireworks.com
Pg 50
KELLOGG, MN 4
226 So. Washington St. • 651.345.2100
7
Pg 21
Pg 21
MAIDEN ROCK, WI 8
9
GREEN QUEEN
W35557 Hwy 35 • 651-245-5191
10 RUSH
11 SECRET
Pg 49
Pg 49
Pg 49
HILL INN AND GENERAL STORE
309 Great River Road • 715.600.2466 www.harborhillinn.net
13 THE
1
2
15 POTTERY
Pg 44
Pg 44
16 RED
3
Pg 13
17 UFFDA
see ad on Pg 40
Pg 40
6
Pg 15
24 www.mississippi-river.org | 2019 Mississippi River/Lake Pepin Area Travel Planner Guide
16
GOODHUE COUNTY HISTORY CENTER
1166 Oak St. • 651.388.6024 www.goodhuecountyhistory.org
17
Pg 15
POTTERY MUSEUM OF RED WING
1240 Harrison St. • 651.327.2220 www.potterymuseumredwing.org
Pg 14
WING POTTERY & STONEWARE
4909 Moundview Drive. • 651.388.4610 www.redwingstoneware.com
19 YMCA
Pg 14
CAMP PEPIN
Pg 15
STOCKHOLM, WI 20 MAIDEN
ROCK WINERY & CIDERY
Pg 47
PALATE
W12102 State Hwy. 35 • 715.442.6400 www.thepalate.net
22 NATIONAL
Pg 50
Pg 47
EAGLE CENTER
50 Pembroke Ave. • 651.565.4989 877.332.4537 • www.nationaleaglecenter.org Pg 33
23 SEPTOBERFEST
www.wabashamn.org/septoberfest
SVJ CREATIVE DESIGNS
62099 Hwy 42 • 507-767-3039 www.SVJCreativeDesigns.com
Pg 51
WABASHA, MN
KELLOGG, MN Pg 14
RIVER ROAD VISITOR CENTER
RED WING, MN
21 THE
ISLAND FIREWORKS
N1597 County RD VV • 715.792.2283 www.island-fireworks.com
Pg 49
PRESCOTT, WI
W12266 King Ln. • 715.448.3502 www.maidenrockwinerycidery.com
Pg 19
Pg 49
SPRINGS YOGA
952.261.5178 www.santoshasprinsyoga.com
434 Main Street • 651.388.4724 www.camppepin.org
OLD FRONTENAC 160 ANNIVERSARY
Pg 49
RIVER PRODUCE
14 SANTOSHA
18 RED
HAGER CITY, WI
Pg 13
SHOP
Corner of Main & Bush St. • 800.488.3332 www.uffdashoponline.com
Pg 39
FRONTENAC, MN
5
WING STONEWARE & POTTERY
4909 Moundview Drive. • 651.388.4610 www.redwingstoneware.com
13 RUSH
Friends of Freedom Park • 200 Monroe St. 715.262.0104 • www.freedomparkwi.org
CAMP LACUPOLIS RESORT
Frontenac, MN www.frontenac160.com
VISION GALLERY
15 GREAT
71000 Hwy. 61 • 651.565.4318 or 507.259.8831 www.camplacupolis.com Pg 22
4
PLACE SHOPS
2000 Old W Main • 651.388.1428 www.rwpotteryplace.com
Pg 32
DANZINGER VINEYARDS
S2015 Grapeview Lane • 608.685.6000 www.danzingervineyard.com
STREET EXCHANGE
2000 Old W Main • 612.910.3743 www.rwpotteryplace.com
Pg 1
CAMP LACUPOLIS, MN
RED WING, MN 14 MAIN
CASTLEROCK MUSEUM
402 S 2nd St. • 608.685.4231 www.castlerockmuseum.com
COUNTRY STOP OF PEPIN
1315 Charland Dr. • 715.442.2429 www.pepincountrystop.com
12 SWAN
715.594-3648 www.rushriverproduce.com
100 MILES OF > ACTIVITIES ALMA, WI
OF THE LAKE PADDLEWHEEL BOAT
612.250.9222 www.swanvision.net
Pg 47
Pg 21
MAIDEN ROCK, WI
UNDER SUGAR LOAF
1023 Sugar Loaf Rd. 507.474.7030 www.treasuresundersugarloaf.com
PEPIN, WI 12 HARBOR
Pg 47
Pg 20
100 Central Point Rd. • 651.345.5188 www.pearlofthelake.com Pg 16, Back Cover
Pg 47
WINONA, MN
HEART GALLERY
651.380.2770 www.secretheartgallery.com
OF THE NATIONS
146 Main St W • 651.560.4892
Pg 49
RIVER PRODUCE
715.594-3648 www.rushriverproduce.com
152 Main St W • 651.565-0035
27 TREASURES
CULTURAL CLOTH
W3560 State Hwy.35 www.culturalcloth.com
CHOCOLATE ESCAPE
26 PRIDE
PEPIN PEARL BUTTON CO. MUSEUM
226 So. Washington St. • 651.345.2100
WABASHA, WI
TREATS AND TREASURES
112 So. Washington St. • 651.345.2882 www.treatsandtreasureslakecity.com
10 LAKE
Pg 47
Pg 19
HOK-SI-LA MUNICIPAL PARK
2500 Hwy. 61 N. • 651.345.3855 www.hoksila.org
Pg 47
PALATE
W12102 State Hwy. 35 • 715.442.6400 www.thepalate.net
25 THE
GEM SAILING
Lake City Marina • 507.261.7473 www.gemsailingmn.com
9
PIE & GENERAL STORE
N2030 Spring St • 715.442.2250 www.stockholmpieandgeneralstore.com
Pg 36
8
11 PEARL
22 SAVVY
Pg 36
LAKE CITY, MN
Pg 47
CLOTHING AND ART
W12098 Hwy. 35 • 715.448.3502 www.sandysclothingandart.com
24 THE
Pg 47
OAK AMISH FURNITURE
N2048 Spring St. • 715.442.6008 www.northernoakamishfurniture.com
Pg 36
LAKE CITY, MN LAKE PEPIN PEARL BUTTON CO.
20 NORTHERN
23 STOCKHOLM
SVJ CREATIVE DESIGNS
62099 Hwy 42 • 507-767-3039 www.SVJCreativeDesigns.com
6
W12266 King Ln. • 715.448.3502 www.maidenrockwinerycidery.com
LARK TOYS
63604 170th Ave. • 507.767.3387 www.larktoys.com
ROCK WINERY & CIDERY
W12117 Hwy 35 • 751.442.9044
LARK TOYS
63604 170th Ave. • 507.767.3387 www.larktoys.com
5
19 MAIDEN
21 SANDY’S
ISLAND FIREWORKS
7
BUGGA
W12103 Hwy. 35 • 612.308.1714 www.huggabugga.com
DANZINGER VINEYARDS
S2015 Grapeview Lane • 608.685.6000 www.danzingervineyard.com
3
18 HUGGA
BURLINGTON HOTEL & QUILT SHOP
809 N Main St. • 608.685.3636 theburlingtonhotelandquiltshop.com
2
STOCKHOLM, WI
Pg 36
Pg 34
These businesses and organizations in the Lake Pepin area are looking forward to serving you! Relax, enjoy and let us make your Lake Pepin time a vacation to remember. Visit www.mississippi-river.org for more information.
You’ll find these businesses and organizations located on the map on the following pages. WINONA, MN 24 MINNESOTA
3
COUNTY HISTORY CENTER
Pg 39
WISCONSIN/MINNESOTA AREA RIVER ROAD WINE TRAIL
www.greatriverroadwinetrail.org
Pps 28-29
100 MILES OF >
4
DINING & NIGHTLIFE 1
back cover
7
226 S. Washington St. • 651.345.2100 www.pearlbuttonco.com
Pg 21
8
BETH’S TWIN BLUFFS CAFE
S 286 Hwy. 35 • 715.673.4040
9
Pg 41
READS LANDING, MN 4
RED WING, MN 5
6
Pg 15
Pg 15
STOCKHOLM, WI 7
N2030 Spring St • 715.442.2250 www.stockholmpieandgeneralstore.com
Pg 47
WABASHA, MN 8
152 W. Main St. • 651.565.0035 www.TheChocolateEscape.com
Pg 3
100 MILES OF > LODGING ALMA, WI 1
see ad on
BURLINGTON HOTEL & QUILT SHOP
809 N Main St. • 608.685.3636 theburlingtonhotelandquiltshop.com
Pg 40
CAMP LACUPOLIS, MN 2
CAMP LACUPOLIS RESORT
Pg 20
71000 Hwy. 61 • 651.565.4318 or 507.259.8831 www.camplacupolis.com Pg 22
5
434 Main Street • 651.388.4724 www.camppepin.org
100 MILES OF >
1
see ad on
LAKE CITY TOURISM BUREAU
4275 Hwy. 61 W • 651.388.9000 countryinns.com/redwingmn
Pg 44
PEPIN AREA COMMUNITY CLUB
3
Pg 20
Pg 43
STOCKHOLM, WI STOCKHOLM MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION
715.442.2266 www.stockholmwisconsin.com
Pg 46
WABASHA, MN 4
WABASHA-KELLOGG CHAMBER/CVB
137 Main St W., Box 105 • 651.565.4158 or 800.565.4158 • www.wabashamn.org
Pg 14
INN OF RED WING
1750 Hwy. 61 • 651.388.6633 www.nicholsinn.com
2
715.544.STAY (7829) www.pepinwisconsin.com
INN & SUITES
Pg 35
WINONA, MN Pg 15
5
VISIT WINONA
160 Johnson St. • 507.452.0735 www.visitwinona.com
WABASHA, MN
Pg 38
OF WABASHA
150 Commerce St • 651.565.5366 www.americinn.com/hotels/MN/wabasha
18 AMERICA’S
Pg 15
PEPIN, WI Pg 44
OF RED WING
17 AMERICINN
YMCA CAMP PEPIN
LAKE CITY, MN Pg 49
RED WING, MN
16 NICHOLS
Pg 51
TOWN MEMBERS
HILL INN AND GENERAL STORE
15 COUNTRY
GREAT RIVER ROAD VISITOR CENTER
RED WING, MN
RIVER AMISH INN
1819 Old W Main St. • 651.385.9060 www.americinn.com/hotels/mn/redwing
THE CHOCOLATE ESCAPE
see ad on
PO Box 155 • 877.525.3248 www.lakecitymn.org Inside Front Cover, pps 16-21
311 Third Street (Hwy 35) • 715.442.5400 www.GreatRiverAmishInn.com
14 AMERCINN
Pg 49
Friends of Freedom Park • 200 Monroe St. 715.262.0104 • www.freedomparkwi.org
Pg 20
ROCK INN
309 Great River Road • 715.600.2466 www.harborhillinn.net
STOCKHOLM PIE & GENERAL STORE
PRESCOTT, WI
PEPIN, WI
13 HARBOR
Pg 49
SANTOSHA SPRINGS YOGA
952.261.5178 www.santoshasprinsyoga.com
4
MAIDEN ROCK, WI
12 GREAT
Pg 49
THE MAIDEN ROCK PRESS
715.448.4312 www.maidenrock.org
ON THE RIVER
N531 Rd. So. 715.448.2608 • www.maidenrockinn.com
RED WING BREWERY
1411 Old West Main Street • 651.327.2200 www.redwingbrewing.com
Pg 20
3
SUNSET MOTEL
11 MAIDEN
LIBERTY’S RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE
303 W. 3rd St. • 651.388.8877 www.libertysonline.com
Pg 20
2
100 Central Point Road • 651.345.9900 www.willowsontheriver.com Back Cover
Pg 23
HIAWATHA NATIONAL BANK
888.460.8723 www.hnbank.com
LAKE PEPIN CAMPGROUND
10 WILLOWS
READS LANDING BREWING COMPANY
70555 202nd Ave • 615.560.4777 www.rlbrewingco.com
1
JOHN HALL’S ALASKA LODGE
1515 N Lakeshore Drive • 800.945.0192 or 651.345.5331 • www.sunsetlc.com
Pg 31
MAIDEN ROCK, WI
HOK-SI-LA MUNICIPAL PARK
Hwy 61 N - 1 mile north of Hwy 61/63 651.345.2909 • 651.345.2749
NELSON, WI 3
Pg 15
1127 N Lakeshore Dr. • www.sleepalaska.com 651.345.1212 • 800.325.2270 Pg 21
LAKE PEPIN PEARL BUTTON CO. BUTTON CUP
Pg 35
ON THE RIVER B&B/VACATION RENTALS
651.565.3509 or 800.482.8188 www.eaglesontheriver.com
AMERICINN OF LAKE CITY
2500 Hwy. 61 N. • 651.345.3855 www.hoksila.org
LAKE HOUSE ON PEPIN RESTAURANT
1702 N Lakeshore Dr. • 651.448.8500 www.lakehouseonpepin.com
2
6
21 EAGLES
100 MILES OF > SERVICES
LAKE CITY, MN 1615 N Lakeshore Dr. • 651.345.5611 www.americinn.com/hotels/mn/lakecity
see ad on
Pg 19
NICHOLS INN OF HASTINGS
2400 Vermillion St. • 651.437.8877 www.nicholsinn.com
RIVER RESORT
1110 Hiawatha Drive E • 651.565.9932 www.BigRiverResort.com
HASTINGS, MN
5
LAKE CITY, MN
20 BIG
FRONTENAC STATE PARK
29223 Co. Rd. 28 Blvd. • 651.345.3401 www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/ frontenac/index.html
Pg 39
160 Johnson St. • 507.454.2723 www.winonahistory.org
26 GREAT
www.mississippi-river.org
FRONTENAC, MN
MARINE ART MUSEUM
800 Riverview Dr. 507.474.6626 • www.MMAM.org
25 WINONA
100 MILES OF > AMENITIES
Pg 34
LOFTS & SPA
119 E. Main St. • 651.565.3509 • 800.482.8188 www.eaglesontheriver.com Pg 31
19 ANDERSON
HOUSE HOTEL
333 Main St. West • 651.565.3509 www.historicandersonhousehotel.com
Pg 31
www.mississippi-river.org | 2019 Mississippi River/Lake Pepin Area Travel Planner Guide
25
Prescott Freedom Park
Hastings 4
15 4
Diamond Bluff Hager City
Bay City
3 5
Maiden Rock
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Barn Bluff 60 miles to Minneapolis/ St. Paul
11 1 2 3
Lake Pepin Mississippi River
Maiden Rock
Frontenac State Park
Covill Park
Red Wing
Stockholm
Frontenac
14 15 16 17
20 21 26 7 3 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
2 26 12 13
4 3
16 17 18 19 26 5 6 5 14 15 16
CC
Hok Si La Park
>>100 MILES OF
1 2 1
DRIVING
6 7 8 9 10 11
Lake City
5 6 7 8 9 10 37 miles to Rochester
Lake Pepin Mississippi River
Camp Lacupolis R Lan 3 2
of
Miles
100
Pepin
25 26 22 23 4 17 18 19 20 21 8
FRIENDS
Zumbro Falls
MAP KEY - see pages 24 & 25 for more detailed information.
BACKROADS
1
SHOPPING
1
LODGING
1
ACTIVITIES
1
SERVICES
1
DINING & NIGHTLIFE
1
TOWN MEMBERS
The two major highways that parallel the Mississippi River are well known national scenic byways and both are designated as Great River Roadways by their respective states. But Mississippi Valley Partners communities offer much more to visitors looking for a scenic drive.
Area Interests MARINA
17 designated and mapped scenic drives for those looking for ruggedly scenic rural country. For maps:
HISTORIC SITE
TRAVEL CENTER
SCENIC VISTA
Maiden Rock - www.wisconsindot.gov/Pages/travel/ road/rustic-roads/rr51.aspx.
STATE PARK
AREA MAP
Pepin - Pepin County Development Office, P.O. Box 39, Durand, Wisconsin 54736 or call 888-672-5709. www.visitpepincounty.com. Winona - www.visitwinona.com, 160 Johnson St., Winona, Minnesota 55987. 800-657-4972. Lake City Chamber of Commerce - 101 Center Street W., Lake City, Minnesota 5504. 651-345-4123 or 800-369-4123 www.lakecitymn.org
MUSEUM
Fargo, ND
Duluth
Twin Cities Sioux Falls SD
247
Rochester
26 www.mississippi-river.org www.mississippi-river.org | 2019 Mississippi River/Lake Pepin Area Travel Planner Guide 26
Mississippi Valley Partners Milwaukee
Madison Chicago, IL
Rochester
>>100 MILES OF
The Upper Mississippi Valley is one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the United States. The wide valley, with its wooded and rock-face bluffs, can be seen at the numerous overlooks along Hwy 61 (MN) and Hwy 35 (WI).
DRIVING
Red Wing has two vistas that offer incredible views – Sorin’s Bluff and Barn Bluff – one easily accessible by vehicle, and the other requiring a strenuous hike. To find Sorin’s Bluff, take Hwy 61 to 7th St.. Follow 7th St. west for a half-mile. For Barn Bluff, follow 7th St. further west to Bluff St., turn right and go two blocks to 5th St. Turn right on 5th and follow the road under Hwy 63/61 to a small parking area. You’ll need to hike from there!
VISTAS
Chippe w
a River
Wisconsin
Tiffany Bottoms Wildlife Area
3 12 13
Frontenac State Park offers unparalleled views of Lake Pepin and the limestone bluff faces across the river in Wisconsin. The main park road takes visitors to an overlook 430 feet above the river. Wabasha is located another 25 miles down Hwy 61. At Hwy 61 and 60, turn right on Hwy 60 one mile and park at roadside for a panoramic view of the river valley.
45 miles to Menomonie (I-94)
Nelson
The vista with the highest elevation (575’) in this area is Garvin Heights in Winona. Driving downriver on Hwy 61, turn right at Huff St., and follow Garvin Heights Rd. (which becomes High Rd.) to the parking area.
3
Reads nding Wabasha
Rieck’s Lake Park
4
55 miles to Eau Claire
Alma
Kruger Park
Zumbro River
Kellogg
Buffalo City
Weaver Dunes Wildlife Area
55 miles to LaCrosse (I-90)
1 2 1 2 26 1
Buena Vista Park
4 5 6 7
41 miles to Rochester
Alma offers two city properties with 500-foot high views of the river and valley. Buena Vista Park - turn off Hwy 35 onto Co. Rd. E near the south end of town and follow signs to the parking lot. The overlook is a short walk across the picnic area and features a great view of Alma, the river valley, and Lock and Dam #4.
Cochrane
Maiden Rock Bluff, is located in Wisconsin between Stockholm and Maiden Rock. Enjoy raptor sightings, including the rare Peregrine falcon. Start at the junction of Hwy 35 and Co. Rd. J in Stockholm. Head north on Co. Rd. J three-quarters of a mile, turn northwest on Co. Rd. E for one mile, and then west on Long Lane for 7/10 of a mile. In Prescott the Great River Road Visitor and Learning Center at Freedom Park, located at the northern gateway to Wisconsin’s Great River Road, a National Scenic Byway, overlooks the scenic upper Mississippi River Valley where the St. Croix River enters the mighty Mississippi.
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Plainview
Weaver
88
74
Minneiska 3
Minnesota
9
10
Rollingstone
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Merrick State Park
25
248
Fountain City
4
Minnesota City
26
9 miles to Winona
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Winona 5 24 25 26 27
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Garvin Heights
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WABASHA > MINNESOTA www.wabashamn.org | 800.565.4158
An Historic Mississippi River Town with a Preserved Main Street
Photo by Ben Threinen
> Visit the National Eagle Center - have a nose to beak experience with real, live eagles!
> Walk the river-walk. > Picnic at Beach Park.
> Bring your boat and play on the Mississippi River sandbars.
> See the town decorated for Septoberfest!
> Visit the Historic Anderson House
> Bring your canoe or kayak and explore the Mississippi River backwaters.
Wabasha, named after Sioux Nation Indian Chief Wapasha III, is the oldest continuous city in Minnesota, with over 50 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Our Main Street has been beautifully restored and preserved. Downtown’s Main Street has restaurants, galleries, and shops, all just half a block from the shores of the Mississippi River and its shoreline walking path. Wabasha was described as the “City of the Healing Waters” by none other than Mark Twain. Just outside town, the Mississippi River turns east away from Highway 61 and the railroad. This provides Wabasha with a peaceful Main Street and scenic river walk. Without the railroad or the highway running through town, Wabasha’s Main Street is one of the quietest and most peaceful of the river towns on the Upper Mississippi. Located at the base of Lake Pepin with a bridge to Wisconsin, Wabasha has a uniquely desirable location for day tripping in the Upper Mississippi River Valley. The cities of Alma, Pepin, Nelson, Plainview, Kellogg and Lake City are all within a 15-minute drive. So what makes Wabasha so special, and why do visitors come to Wabasha again and again? The lure of the great outdoors and family activities. Wabasha is home to the National Eagle Center, three marinas, the largest DNR boat ramp in the state, a skiing/snowboarding resort, and an 18-hole golf course.
Photo by Ben Threinen
With the many festivals and events, shopping, golfing, hiking, fishing, boating, skiing/snowboarding, there is always something here to do! So, if it’s history and quaint little old towns, outdoor recreation, wildlife and birding, or just a quiet little romantic getaway, you’ll likely find what you’re looking for in Wabasha.
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WABASHA > MINNESOTA
The Historic Anderson House Hotel Ideally located 1 block from the Mississippi River in Wabasha, MN
333 W Main St
www.EaglesOnTheRiver.com
651-565-2500
Our Carriage House And Perennial Gardens
800-482-8188
Free Concerts Under the Bridge
Location… Location… Vacation!
Banquet Room, Wedding Blocks, Car Clubs, Family Reunions, Walk to Beach Park
Come and sit for a while!
All our rooms are unique.
New Game Room coming in * 2019 * Parkside Marina
Beach Park
Anderson House
2 King Suites Available!
Connected to Wisconsin
Music Under the Bridge
National Eagle Center
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WABASHA > MINNESOTA
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WABASHA > MINNESOTA
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WABASHA > MINNESOTA
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WABASHA > MINNESOTA
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KELLOGG > MINNESOTA www.wabashamn.org • www.cityofkellogg.org | 800.565.4158
photo by Marcia K. Carlson
Unique Artwork and Watermelon Festival > Kellogg Watermelon Festival 1st weekend after Labor Day.
> Visit the Heroes Memorial in Kellogg City Park.
> Camping, hiking, and canoeing at Kruger and Zumbro Bottoms State Forest.
> The carousel at LARK Toys is unlike any other carousel in the world. Hand-carved with exquisite detail, each animal is a rideable work of art.
> Concrete statue casting demonstrations at SVJ Creative Designs.
Kellogg is a small community located on the Zumbro River near it’s juncture with the Mississippi River. Nearby Kruger Campgrounds offers hiking, fishing, hunting, biking, canoe access, camping, and a picnic area. The Zumbro River Bottoms offers extensive hiking trails, canoeing, and camping, plus trails and campground areas specifically set up for horseback rides. ATV and motorcycle trails are in the Trout Valley Management Unit and Snake Creek Management Unit. Nature lovers will want to view the Nature Conservancy’s Weaver Dunes Scientific and Natural Area, home to several rare plants, a unique butterfly breeding area, and the largest population of the endangered Blanding’ Turtle in the World! Kellogg city park is centrally located park with a shelter for picnics and a large playground. The first weekend after Labor Day is the popular Kellogg Watermelon Festival! Feast on fresh picked, locally grown Sand Prairie watermelons. The Heroes Memorial honors not only military veterans but also police officers, firefighters and emergency medical personnel with life-size concrete hero statues, granite walls, engraved bricks and beautiful landscape. For over a quarter of a century LARK Toys has offered remarkable toys with over 20,000 sq. ft. to explore. They’re one of the largest family owned & operated specialty toy stores in the country. SVJ Creative Designs, also in business over 25 years, offers a large selection of concrete statuary to decorate your yard or garden. Personalize items to make them uniquely yours!
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WINONA > MINNESOTA www.visitwinona.com | 507-452-0735
Surprisingly Weird > Events: Frozen River Film Festival, Bluff Country Studio Art Tour, Mid West Music Fest, Steamboat Days, Great River Shakespeare Festival, Minnesota Beethoven Festival, Boats and Bluegrass Festival, Great Dakota Homecoming, Cemetery Walk
> Outdoor and Recreation: Garvin Heights Overlook, Levee Park, Prairie Island, Lake Park, Latsch Island, Aghaming Park and Preserve, Bluffside Park, Bob Welch Aquatic Center
Situated on the Great River Road two hours south of the Twin Cities, Winona has struck a perfect balance between big-city swagger and river-town charm, and you’re going to love it.
and dozens of other ways to get outside and enjoy some fresh air.
We are home to the nationally cast Great River Shakespeare Festival, the internationally acclaimed Minnesota Beethoven Festival, and several more music, cultural, and film festivals that together draw many thousands of people to the city each year. Winona also boasts the jawdropping Minnesota Marine Art Museum, where visitors ponder the work of masters like Renoir, Monet, Picasso, Van Gogh, and hundreds more.
What’s Cool:
Grand architecture and a half dozen museums offer a glimpse of the city’s past as a legendary river port, and local eateries, a brewery and winery, and unique local shops make it a fun place to wander. And for outdoor recreation lovers, we are a paradise. Cradled by towering bluffs and the Mississippi River, the area is rich with land and water trails, rock and ice climbing,
> Attractions: Minnesota Marine Art Museum, Polish Cultural Institute, Watkins Museum, Winona County History Center, Garvin Heights Vineyards, Island City Brewing Co., River Cruises
Some people think it’s odd to have all this greatness in one city – we just think it’s very Winona – Surprisingly Weird and incredibly entertaining. • Vibrantly renovated Levee Park with splash pad, concerts, and communitywide celebrations • Mississippi River Cruises on the Winona Tour Boat • Guided ice climbing and rock climbing • Live music events at Island City Brewing, Ed’s (no name) Bar, Prairie Island Campground • Floating concerts on Lake Winona with free watercrafts or BYOB (bring your own boat) • Rent outdoor rec equipment for picnics, trails, and water at Lake Park Lodge, Adventure Cycle & Ski, and Prairie Island Campground • Mississippi Sippin’ happy hour on the patio of the Minnesota Marine Art Museum
Winona Visitor Center 924 Huff Street, 507.452.2278 January-March Saturdays and Sundays, 10am-3pm April-October Mondays-Saturdays, 9am-5pm Sundays, 11am-4pm November-December Saturdays and Sundays, 10am-3pm Visitor information is also available year round at the Visit Winona offices located in the Winona County History Center.
Visit Winona Offices at Winona County History Center 160 Johnson St., 507.452.0735
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WINONA > MINNESOTA
G R E AT A R T I N S P I R E D B Y WAT E R
MMAM is home to some of the most unique and significant marine artworks in the Midwest. From Monet and Picasso, to Emanuel Leutze’s Washington Crossing the Delaware, there is something for everyone in this diamond in the bluffs.
TUESDAYS-SUNDAYS: 10AM–5PM CLOSED MONDAYS 800 RIVERVIEW DRIVE • WINONA MN (507) 474-6626 • MMAM.ORG
Emanuel Leutze (1816-1868) Washington Crossing the Delaware, 1851 (detail) Oil on canvas
1023 Sugar Loaf Rd. WINONA
Explore Winona’s storied past at
THE WINONA COUNTY HISTORY CENTER 160 Johnson Street Winona Minnesota
507.454.2723
winonahistory.org
OPEN SA 7 DAY ! WEEK
A Sampling of the Lake Pepin Biking Trails Lake City – Historic Theilman Country Ramble, 48 miles
Begin at Hok-Si-La Park. Ample parking is available. Head South on Hwy. 61 to Cty Rd 4 and into Theilman. Take a short detour thru this historic town, where a point of interest is the newly restored opera house. Continue on Cty Rd 4 to Co. 18. Turn left on 18 to continue to Kellogg. Return via Hwy. 61.
Wabasha – East Indian Creek Ride, 42 miles Start your ride at the National Eagle Center. Take Bridge St. to a right on Co Rd 30 (Grant Blvd.). Go left on Hwy. 61 to Kellogg, right on Co Rd 18, left on Co Rd 14, right on Hwy. 61, and left onto Co Rd 84. Follow Co Rd 84 to the
stop sign, go right on Dodge St (Co Rd 18), go left on Belvidere Ave, right on Hwy. 61. Right on Hwy 60 (Pembroke Ave), and left on 2nd St W.
Pepin – Little House Trail, 36 miles
Start at the city park at 806 3rd St, Hwy 35. Head South on Hwy. 35 and take a left at Cty. N. Take Cty N to Cty SS, and take a left. Head to Cty CC and take a left into Lund, follow Cty CC, taking you by a reconstructed log cabin of where Laura was born.
Stockholm/Maiden Rock Cidery, 20 miles
Park your car at the Stockholm City Park. Take Cty Rd J to Lund, then left on Cty Rd CC. Follow CC north and then west (it turns into Cty HH). Take
a left at Cty SS and go downhill into the town of Maiden Rock. Take a left on Hwy 35 to Cty AA which becomes Cty E. Return to Cty E and it will join with Cty J to take you back to Stockholm.
Red Wing Cruise, 30 miles
Starts at 1932 Old West Main St. Turn right onto Old West Main. Turn left onto Withers Harbor Dr. enter bike trail on right. One mile, turn onto Featherstone Rd, and then left on Bench St., Bench becomes Cty 1. Continue on Cty 1, right on Cty 7. Cross Hwy 19 into Vasa. Turn right, continue on Cty. 7. After the church, left on Cty 7. 8 miles, turn right onto Cannon Valley Trail until Red Wing trail head. 9 miles turn left onto Old West Main to return.
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ALMA > WISCONSIN www.almawisconsin.com | 608.685.3303
National Historic District with Abundant Wildlife Viewing Opportunities Photo by Ben Threinen
> 19th Century National Historic District tour & unique stairstep streets. > Nature & birding events; viewing at Wings Over Alma.
> Fishing at its best at the Great Alma Fishing Float > Music & Arts Festival along the river. > Public marina for docking
BURLINGTON HOTEL & QUILT SHOP
809 N Main St. • 608.685.3636 • theburlingtonhotelandquiltshop.com The building currently houses a Quilt Shop, Wine & Beer Bar and three restored hotel rooms in Alma’s historic Burlington Hotel, circa 1891. The hotel rooms opened in 2016 and have been well received. Consider a stay when visiting the Alma area!
Historic Alma is a perched on a narrow strip of land between the Mississippi River and 500-foot limestone bluffs. The historic river town of less than 1,000 is only two streets wide and has 12 stairstep streets. Downtown Alma has several shops, galleries, gift stores and the Wings Over Alma Nature & Art Center. Restaurants and a restored bakery as well as many lodging options are housed in a variety of fascinating 19th-century waterfront buildings. The Castlerock Museum features arms, armor and art from the Dark Age Warriors, Vikings, Romans and more. Alma has two marinas, two boat ramps and a 300-foot sand Mississippi swimming beach. Pull your boat up to the courtesy dock and enjoy the city’s many attractions. For train buffs visit the old Burlington Railroad Hotel and a walking bridge to Lock & Dam #4 where you can watch the trains pass underneath. Birding Alma is well known for tundra swans, bald eagles, herons and pelicans. Rieck’s Lake offers views of migrating tundra swans. December February, below Lock & Dam #4, wintering bald eagles congregate. Seasonal Alma offers many surprises throughout the year. Wildflowers, morning valley fog along the Buffalo River, spring & fall bird migrations, autumn color and the frozen river keep our city vibrant all year long.
Arms, Armor and Art
See actual arms and armor worn by Grecians, Romans, Vikings, Crusaders and Renaissance “Knights in Shining Armor.” Open Fridays and Saturdays from 1 to 4 pm (Sundays - June through August) Groups days by appointment
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402 South 2nd Street, Alma, WI 54610
NELSON > WISCONSIN www.mississippi-river.org
Enjoy the Backwaters of the Mississippi River > The Nelson Bottoms area is abundant with wildlife and great fall duck hunting.
> Located at the junction of the Mississippi River and Chippewa River valleys.
> Fish for smallmouth bass, walleye, largemouth bass.
> Visit the 100-year-old Nelson Cheese Factory.
Nelson is a small village nestled between the majestic bluffs of the Mississippi River Valley and the backwaters of the Mississippi River. Check out the great fishing and wildlife viewing through the backwaters along Highway 25. Take Highway 25 from Minnesota and the nearby bridge in Wabasha, or Highway 35 north or south along the river in Wisconsin. Love the outdoors? Check out the great fishing and wildlife viewing as you pass through the backwaters along Highway 25. Nelson is a small town “on the grow” with several new familyowned businesses starting up alongside established shops and restaurants. Nelson has a variety of shops with gifts or antiques. When you’re hungry, Nelson is a great place to grab a bite to eat – everything from pizza to barbecue. And don’t forget to stop for an ice cream cone or some of Nelson’s famous cheese curds to take home and share with family and friends. Nelson’s location makes it the perfect place for hunting, fishing and simply admiring the beautiful outdoors. There’s river access from public and private locations, and boat rental opportunities. All types of birds including eagles are known to winter in the area. We know you’re going to love the small-town charm of Nelson and encourage you to come and visit for a day or two – or longer!
> There is river access from public and private locations. > Nelson’s Castleberg Park has a shelter perfect for picnic lunches
> North of Nelson on Highway 35 is the 12,500 acre Tiffany Bottoms Wildlife Area River, which protects the Chippewa River bottomlands and supports a number of rare plants and animals.
Real food. Real family.
Welcome home. S 286 HWY 35
(715) 673-4040
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PEPIN > WISCONSIN www.PepinWisconsin.com | 715.544.STAY
Dine, Shop and Enjoy the View of Lake Pepin
photo by Bruce Christianson, Sightflight.com
> Visit the historically accurate reconstructed log cabin where Laura Ingalls Wilder was born and see what prairie pioneer life was like, seven miles north of Pepin on Co. Rd. CC.
> Take a walk on the docks of Pepin Marina and enjoy the shops and restaurants along the water. > Sailing excursions and river tours available out of the Pepin Marina.
The village of Pepin was established in 1856 by the Pepin brothers, two early French trappers who were enchanted with the natural beauty of the area. Historically, the village was a steamboat boomtown familiar to Mark Twain and wealthy Chicago socialites who summered on Lake Pepin. A world-famous past resident is also an attraction for thousands of visitors to Pepin each year. Laura Ingalls Wilder was born in a small log cabin just 7 miles north of the village, where her early childhood adventures became the basis of her book “Little House in the Big Woods.” A reconstruction of the original cabin built by Pa Ingalls sits at the birth site on County Road CC. In the heart of Pepin is the Laura Ingalls Wilder museum where people can learn more about Laura’s life and the early history of Pepin. Laura Ingalls Wilder Days, a celebration that’s held the second full weekend of September, brings Laura’s era back to life for young and old. The Pepin Depot Museum offers railroad and steamboat historical displays and memorabilia housed in a 1890s railroad depot in the Laura Ingalls Wilder Park.
> Enjoy Tiffany Wildlife Area - a 13,000 acre refuge offering wildlife watching, semi-wilderness canoeing, hiking, camping, hunting and fishing.
> Stay the weekend at a bed and breakfast inn, motel or campground. > Take your picture on the “big chairs”. > Visit our award-winning winery.
If you wish to extend your stay in Pepin overnight, we know you’ll find pleasure at one of our modern motels or beautifully restored B&B’s. If you enjoy camping, Pepin offers a fully-equipped campground. And be sure to come to Pepin hungry! We offer dining options to satisfy a variety of tastes, from fine cuisine to burgers ‘n beer to deli fare to dessert ‘n coffee, to malts ‘n ice cream treats. If you’re shopping for unique gifts, artwork, jewelry, clothing, or antiques, you must browse through the shops and galleries in Pepin to visit with the local artisans, collectors, or Pepin’s own blacksmith. Shop for fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables, lawn and garden ornaments, metal art and perennials, all featured in outdoor markets. One of our main attractions is Lake Pepin, which provides great fishing and recreational boating. The summer season offers a sandy beach for swimming and sunbathing. Hundreds of sailboats, many of them moored in Pepin’s lovely marina, dot the horizon as they sparkle along the surface of the lake. The marina offers seasonal and overnight dockage as well as boat launching services. A public ramp is nearby with a fish cleaning station and public rest rooms.
PEPIN EVENTS April 20, Spring Flood Run June 7-9, Fresh Art Tour Sept. 14-15, Laura Days Sep. 15, Pepin Parade 1PM Sept. 21, Fall Flood Run
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Oct. 10-13, Flyway Film Festival Nov. 9 -10, Holiday Harvest Wine and Food Festival December 1,8,15 & 22, Outdoor Christmas Market, Villa Bellezza
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STOCKHOLM > WISCONSIN www.stockholmwisconsin.com
A Thriving Arts Community with a Proud Heritage.
The Village is a thriving, vibrant destination brimming with charming shops, world class local and regional fine art, a quaint museum, delectable food, exciting theatre and music and premier accommodations. Not only is Stockholm one of Midwest Livings “Best of ” it is also ranked as one of the top 5 “Shopping Hotspots” in the State of Wisconsin. Stockholm is home to many unique events each year – Stockholm Art Stroll, Swedish Christmas celebration, the Stockholm Art Fair and numerous art tours, live theater, music and more, see www. stockholmwisconsin for a complete list of events. Stockholm was founded in 1851 by Swedish immigrant farmers. Many historic buildings in the village exist from days when Stockholm was a commercial hub for farmers, fishing and clamming. During the 1970’s many artists, drawn to the area by the region’s stunning beauty, began to
> Take one of the Blue Bikes of Stockholm for a ride!
> Explore the river on our 700 foot stone pier.
> Visit The Stockholm Institute Historical Museum.
> Hike the legendary Maiden Rock Bluff Nature Area.
revive the old storefronts and homes. Today, Stockholm residents are proud of their heritage and the village’s reputation, rooted in its quaint charm, enhanced by its vibrant arts community and the exceptional beauty that surrounds the Village. Visitors are drawn to the natural beauty of the Lake Pepin area, which, according to William Cullen Bryant, “ought to be visited in the summer by every poet and painter in America.” We encourage you to visit the historic and beautiful Village of Stockholm on the Mississippi, the perfect escape from the ordinary and an enchanting slice of life as it used to be.
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UNIQUE EXPERIENCES | SUPERIOR SERVICES | EXCITING EVENTS INSPIRED LODGING | CREATIVE SHOPPING | ICONIC CULINARY ESTABLISHMENTS
W W W . S T O C K H O L M W I S C O N S I N . C O M
W W W . S T O C K H O L M W I S C O N S I N . C O M
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MAIDEN ROCK WINERY & CIDERY Presenting a unique collection of premium hard cider & fruit wines, from fresh local fruit, flavored by Wisconsin.
info@maidenrockwinerycidery.com W12266 King Lane, Stockholm WI 54679 715-448-3502 WWW.MAIDENROCKWINERYCIDERY.COM
Hugga Bugga
the
PA L AT E
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a handcrafted boutique
www.thepalate.net
Highway 35 Stockholm, WI 54769
e Mad are hC t i W
W12102 State Hwy 35 Stockholm, WI 54769
715-442-6400
612.308.1714
for your entertaining taste
char@huggabugga.com
On the corner of the Great River Road and Spring Street in downtown Stockholm, WI
Lunch Pie Espresso
Local and find Meaningful pieces at Wonderful prices Shop
www.sandysclothingandart.com W 1 2 0 9 8
H w y
3 5
.
S t o c k h o l m
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5 4 7 6 9
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experiences@stockholmwisconsin.com
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MAIDEN ROCK > WISCONSIN 715.577.0969 | www.maidenrock.org
Maiden Rock is a small village nestled in the foothills and bluffs, perched on the shores of Lake Pepin, with an Indian Legend of a Dakota maiden who leaped from the bluff-top to avoid a forced marriage. Maiden Rock Village is a popular destination for travelers of the Mississippi Flyway. Ensconced between the bluffs and Lake Pepin, the Maiden Rock area is a bird-lover’s paradise hosting diverse habitat for myriad avian species including: bald eagles, sand hill cranes, trumpeter swans and tundra swans, white pelicans, waterfowl and countless migratory species. Maiden Rock is also home to musicians, visual artists and notably artful shops including Cultural Cloth, Swan Vision, The Green Queen, Limbo Records, Secret Heart Gallery and The Smiling Pelican Bakeshop. Other amenities include the superbly renovated schoolhouse of Maiden Rock Inn, ongoing music presentations at the Six String Saloon, steady refreshment at Ole’s and yoga classes at Santosha Center.
> Enjoy trout fishing in Pine Creek as well as boating and fishing on Lake Pepin. > Camping in the village park is a fun family event. > Music and art and beauty in a small village setting.
For an extraordinary experience in nature, Maiden Rock is a stone’s throw from many stunning landscapes, including Rush River Produce’s legendary blueberry farm, breathtaking acreage and lodging at Journey Inn and Pepin Farm Pottery, the outdoor concert series at Liberty Tree Farm; the Rush River Delta, Pine Creek (a trout fishermen’s favorite) and easy to access trails across the prairie restoration at Maiden Rock Bluff. Maiden Rock Area Community Association sponsors “Summerfest” the third Saturday in June. Summerfest runs from mid-morning until after dark and features a silent auction, parade, children’s games food live music and ends with a fireworks display. They also sponsor “Country Christmas” the first Saturday in December. Enjoy a pancake breakfast, Santa’ Elves and Santa himself, plus horse-drawn wagon rides. The Maiden Rock Press is published monthly. Pick up a copy at the local service station. Check out their website at maidenrock.org, and find them on Facebook at facebook.com/maiden rock area community association. History of Maiden Rock The village was founded in the early 1850s by two brothers, Amos and Albert Harris, who called it Harrisburg. The name was changed to Maiden Rock in 1857.
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POSITION ONLY swan vision
Blueberries July & August U-Pick Thursday through Sunday 8am - 2pm
Rush River Produce Maiden Rock, Wisconsin
Call 715-594-3648 or rushriverproduce.com
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RED WING > MINNESOTA
HAGER CITY > WISCONSIN www.mississippi-river.org
Colorful History Located on an Island > Because of it’s seclusion Hager City has had such visitors as Al Capone, John Dillinger and Pretty Boy Floyd.
> Known for its Bow & Arrow rock formations. > Explore the backwater channels by boat.
Hager City, located on an island in the Mississippi River, is surrounded by channels and backwaters. Houseboats and marinas make Hager City a community on the water. With its many places to hide Hager City has a history of bootlegging during prohibition and even the rumor that Jesse and Frank James hid out here for two weeks after the Northfield raid, as well as visitors such as Al Capone, John Dillinger and Pretty Boy Floyd. Hager City was founded by the Chicago, Burlington & Northern Railroad in 1886. The advent of the railroad in the late 1800s brought a sharp decrease in riverboat traffic as rail replaced boats and barges as the main form of transportation along the river. The most well-known feature of Hager City is known as the Bow & Arrow formation. Just east of Hager City, you’ll see a set of boulders that the first people to survey the area thought resembled a large bow strung with an arrow and aimed at Lake Pepin. There is an historic marker located along the road that gives details about the rock formation. The rock formation was a well-known landmark and was a point of reference for travelers along the Mississippi River for thousands of years.
IN THE AREA > www.mississippi-river.org
Diamond Bluff, WI. Traveling south from
Prescott the Great River Road traveler encounters the settlement of Diamond Bluff. Although a little river community today, Diamond Bluff reached its peak of occupation 1,000 years ago when the Oneota Indians created many camps and villages there. Over 500 earthen mounds have been found, including the Panther Effigy Mound. In 1890, a 110-ton steamboat named the Sea Wing sank killing 98 people. Today a memorial plaque, placed at Sea Wing Memorial Park commemorates this tragic event.
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Bay City, WI. Founded in the 1880s, Bay City was a
thriving river town with a pickle factory, blacksmith shop, grain elevators, sand mine, saw mill, shingle mill, and a steamboat wharf. Visit the original Conlin Log Home built in 1856 by an Irish immigrant.
Fountain City, WI. Nestled in the bluffs along the Mississippi River, Fountain City is the oldest settlement in Buffalo County. The panoramic view of Fountain City is highlighted by Eagle Bluff, which stands 550 feet above the river, one of the highest points on the Mississippi.
PRESCOTT > WISCONSIN www.prescottwi.com | 715.262.3284
Where the Mississippi and St. Croix Rivers Meet
photo by Margaret Smith
One of Wisconsin’s oldest towns, Prescott is the northern gateway to Wisconsin’s Great River Road. Settled in 1839, Prescott received its name in 1851 in honor of Philander Prescott, a fur trapper who built a cabin on the site where the city now stands. Prescott quickly became a center for river shipping, steamboat transportation and milling. Immigrants arrived via steamboats and settled around Prescott.
> Visit Mercord Mill Park where the St. Croix and Mississippi Rivers meet. > Enjoy downtown’s 19th century buildings, shops and dining.
> Take the Historic Walking Tour. > A public dock offers easy access to downtown and the public boat launch has adjacent trailer parking.
From the bluffs of Freedom Park, visitors can see the waters of the St. Croix flow into the Mississippi. The Great River Road Visitor & Learning Center at Freedom Park features indoor and outdoor interpretive exhibits, free spotting scopes, changing local art exhibits, walking trails and picnic areas. Adventure enthusiasts can boat, canoe, golf, bird watch, hike, bike, swim, hunt for antiques, shop and dine, and in the winter, snowmobile, ski and snowboard in the Prescott area. Prescott’s historic Clock Tower is located downtown next to the bridge adjacent to the Welcome & Heritage Center (on the National Historic Register), home to the Prescott Area Historical Society. Welcome Center offers exhibits highlighting local heritage, plus maps, brochures and information. Shop and dine in the historic 19th century buildings. Don’t miss Mercord Mill Park for an exceptional view of the St. Croix and Mississippi Rivers merging.
Minneiska, MN. Puttman Gray built what was known as “Crazy Man’s Castle”, located 1/2 mile south of Minneiska. No longer standing, it was built from driftwood, three stories high and decorated with towers and steeples. A tourist curiosity, steamboat lights flashed across the “Castle” at night, Gray’s daughters danced with white sheets covering themselves. Gray invented a vertical amusement ride later purchased by a man named Farris and became the “Ferris Wheel”.
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Hastings, MN. Nestled along the bluffs of the St. Croix, Vermillion and Mississippi Rivers, Hastings is authentically reminiscent of a 19th century town. It’s renowned for its fine Victorian architecture and boasts over 60 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. The LeDuc Historic Estate, a Gothic Revival mansion, is open for tours and special events throughout the year
www.mississippi-river.org | 2019 Mississippi River/Lake Pepin Area Travel Planner Guide
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with so many op tions!