Article: 10 Things to Do in Rochester, Minnesota for a Perfect Weekend Getaway


Photo: Tom Fisk
With its charming downtown, vibrant arts scene, and stunning natural surroundings, this city has something for everyone. 

Here are our top 10 picks for things to do during your weekend in Rochester, Minnesota.

Visit the Mayo Clinic
A visit to Rochester wouldn't be complete without stopping by the world-renowned Mayo Clinic. Take a guided tour of the facility or explore the fascinating exhibits at the Mayo Clinic Heritage Hall.

Stroll through the Rochester Farmers Market
Pick up some fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and handmade crafts at the Rochester Farmers Market, open every Saturday from May to October.

Explore the Quarry Hill Nature Center
Get back to nature at the Quarry Hill Nature Center, where you can hike scenic trails, observe wildlife, and learn about the natural history of the region.

Catch a show at the Rochester Civic Theatre
Enjoy live theatre, music, and dance performances at the Rochester Civic Theatre, a beloved community institution since 1951.

Indulge in some retail therapy at the Shops at University Square
Browse the boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops at the Shops at University Square, a stylish retail destination in downtown Rochester.

Take a scenic drive along the Great River Road
Hit the road and take in the stunning views along the Great River Road, which winds through the picturesque bluffs and valleys of the Mississippi River.

Tour the historic Mayowood Mansion
Step back in time with a visit to the Mayowood Mansion, the former home of the Mayo family and a stunning example of Georgian Revival architecture.

Grab a bite at one of Rochester's top restaurants
Rochester has no shortage of excellent dining options, from farm-to-table bistros to classic steakhouse fare. Try the award-winning cuisine at The Loop or the innovative dishes at Forager Brewery.

Check out the Rochester Art Center
Admire contemporary art exhibits and attend workshops and events at the Rochester Art Center, a dynamic cultural hub in the heart of downtown.

Relax in the scenic Silver Lake Park
Take a leisurely stroll or pack a picnic lunch at Silver Lake Park, a picturesque urban oasis with tranquil walking paths and stunning water views.

With so much to see and do in Rochester, Minnesota, you're sure to have a perfect weekend getaway.

Location: Rochester, MN, USA

Popular posts from this blog

Article: Skyway and Subway Map of Rochester, Minnesota

Image
Skyway and Subway Map of Rochester, Minnesota. Skyway:  The skyway system is limited but it can connect to you to most places in the downtown Rochester area. The skyways are also connected to the city Subway system. Subway (underground - no trains):   The subway system is more connected than the Skyway in downtown Rochester. It covers most of the Mayo Clinic buildings. The subway is only a walkway, no train system Here is a great link to a PDF file of the subway and skyway system of Rochester.        
Read more

Stay: Hotels that are connected (attached) to Mayo Clinic Rochester by Subway and/or Skyway

Here is a short directory of hotels linked to the Mayo Clinic for your convenience. While some of these hotels may require the use of a combination of skyway and subway to access the Clinic, you can rely on this list to stay indoors throughout your visit to the Mayo Clinic. The hotels are ranked numerically, with 1 being the closest and 9 the furthest away (approximate distance), so you can easily select the one that best suits your needs. Kahler Grand Hotel/International Hotel (closest to Mayo Clinic) Rochester Marriott Hotel Broadway Residence & Suites Kahler Inn and Suites Double Tree Hotel Hilton Garden Inn Holiday Inn Express Residence Inn by Marriott Brentwood Inn & Suite (Furthest from Mayo Clinic)  Hotel contact and location information (updated 4.06.2021): The Kahler Grand Hotel 20 SW Second Avenue Rochester, MN 507-280-6200 kahler.com Rochester Marriot Hotel (downtown) 101 1st Ave SW, Rochester, MN 507-292-1400 marriot.com Bro...
Read more

Article: Food Stores Near Mayo Clinic and Downtown in Walking Distance - Rochester, Minnesota

Food Stores Near Mayo Clinic and Downtown in Walking Distance Peoples Food Co-op   (roughly 4 miles from Mayo Clinic) The Peoples Food Co-op offers a great selection of alternative, healthy, vegetarian, vegan and a multitude of vitamins and healthy lifestyle foods and items.  The staff here are very friendly and welcome newcomers and locals alike. The Peoples Food Co-Op 519 1st Avenue SW Rochester, MN 55902 Ph: 507-289-9061 http://pfc.coop/ Kmar t (closed) Kmart is roughly 2-3 miles from the Mayo Clinic and any hotel in the downtown area. Here you'll find the things that you will need that will keep you going for your stay in Rochester (i.e. tooth paste, bottled water etc. Kmart (closed) 201 Ninth St S E Rochester, MN 55904 (507) 288-9567 Walgreens (location roughly 3 to 5 miles from the Mayo Clinic) In addition we have two Walgreen stores located approximately 3 and 5 miles out of downtown Rochester downtown. We have a south Walgreens which...
Read more