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Things to do in and around the Rochester, MN area
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items Discover the best things to do in Rochester, MN — from family-friendly attractions and scenic parks to unique museums and local eateries. Explore spots like the Mayo Civic Center, Quarry Hill Nature Center, and charming downtown shops. Perfect for we...
Sections
5
Outdoor fun
Tours
Favorite Restaurants, Coffee Shops and Ice Cream Shops
Shopping
Fun Zone
Outdoor fun
Explore local parks and trails for fun, fresh-air adventures for the whole family!
Always a fun place to visit, Oxbow has trails, a small zoo, a newer playground area, picnic and nature areas. Fun for all ages!
Oxbow Park & Zollman Zoo
Quarry Hill has 8 miles of trails, nature exhibits, and indoor/outdoor exhibits. Also a great place to take family photos!
Quarry Hill Nature Center
Perfect for walking, picnics and playground fun!
Silver Lake Park
Soldiers Field Park in Rochester, MN is a beautiful community space perfect for outdoor fun. It features walking and biking trails, picnic areas, a playground, and an 18-hole golf course. During summer, the Soldiers Field pool and splash pad are loca...
Soldiers Field Park
Tours
“Discover the city like never before with tours that showcase local sights, history, and hidden gems. Perfect for visitors and locals looking for a new adventure!
Mayowood Mansion is a must-see in Rochester. Guided tours inside the mansion and self-guided exploration outside. Special Christmas tours start November 1.
Mayowood Historic Home
Take a 75 mi minute tour of historic landmarks in Rochester, MN
Public Tours | Rochester Trolley & Tour Co.
The Plummer House is an English Tudor Mansion and the former home of Henry S. Plummer, who was a doctor at the Mayo Clinic.
Plummer House | Rochester, MN
Contemporary exhibits and engaging art experiences for all ages.
Rochester Art Center
Favorite Restaurants, Coffee Shops and Ice Cream Shops
Savor the best bites in town! From cozy coffee shops to delicious bakeries and favorite restaurants, this section highlights local spots you won’t want to miss.
My favorite place for brunch in Rochester! Reservations recommended but not required.
Five West Kitchen + Bar - Rochester, MN
Known for their big choice of burger varieties, but also have great chicken sandwiches! Three convenient locations in Rochester!
Newt's South
This local pizza spot is a must-try for anyone who loves pizza! Their taco pizza is my absolute favorite! It is perfectly seasoned, cheesy, and loaded with all the best toppings. A great go-to for dinner or weekend takeout!
The Original Mr. Pizza South | Rochester, MN
Stop by Canadian Honker for warm, home-cooked meals. Just minutes from St Mary’s hospital, it’s the cozy spot to enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner that feels like it came straight from home.
Canadian Honker Restaurant | Rochester, MN
The sweetest stop in town! This cozy ice cream shop serves up creamy, handcrafted ice cream in a variety of flavors! Perfect for an afternoon treat or a fun family outing!
Flapdoodles Homemade Ice Cream - Flapdoodles Homemade Ice Cream
From handcrafted lattes and refreshing smoothies to sweet pastries and teas, there’s a treat for everyone!
MOKA | Coffee. Espresso. Tea.
Sip, relax, and enjoy expertly brewed coffee and tea from a local favorite.
Cafe Steam
“Freshly made layered doughnuts, rich coffee and specialty drinks! It’s an easy stop for a treat that’s as fun as it is delicious!
Parlor Doughnuts
Shopping
From trendy finds to everyday essentials, these stores make shopping in the Rochester area and beyond easy and fun.
Apache Mall is a clean, family- friendly indoor mall with stores such as Scheels, Macy’s, JCPenney, and Barnes & Noble Bookstore. There is plenty of free parking, a food court, Spark Children’s Museum, and a play area for young children inside t...
Apache Mall
Discover this local boutique filled with stylish clothing, cute accessories, and charming home décor. It’s the perfect spot to shop local and find something special for yourself or your home.
Real Deals Rochester
Have some time to spare or heading for the Twin Cities? Discover endless fun at the Mall of America! 🛍️✨ From world-class shopping and dining to exciting attractions like Nickelodeon Universe and SEA LIFE Aquarium, it’s the ultimate destination for ...
Mall of America®
Fun Zone
Bowling, movies, and escape rooms…fun for friends and family of all ages!
Bowlocity has a little something for everyone: bowling lanes, laser tag, an arcade full of games, and a great sports bar for food and drinks. It’s a fun spot for families or friends any day of the week!
Bowlocity
Rochester’s only movie theater is a treat! Catch new releases while kicking back in plush recliner seats.
Rochester Movie Theatre
A thrilling, brain-teasing experience where every clue brings you closer to victory.
Rochester Escape Room - Escape Challenge
Located inside Apache Mall, Spark is a children’s museum with interactive activities for all ages! Children under 1 are admitted free and there are daily programs listed on their website. Great rainy day activity!
SPARK, The Children's Museum of Rochester, MN