Find peace or adventure in Natural Minnesota

Winona, MN

Having a population of 28,000, Winona is one of the most beautiful small towns in South Eastern Minnesota.  I would take tourists up to the Garvin Heights Lookout providing a stunning view of the community, from the bluffs that surround Winona. Clearly visible are the two lakes in the middle of town, where people engage in activities year round. Biking, running, roller skiing, canoeing, ice/fishing, and catching up with friends as you walk are popular activities the lakeprovides. Adventurous visitors should definitely try paddle boarding or kayaking in one of the lakes. The bluffs (look like foothills to a mountain) and Sugar Loaf also provide a place to hike. After tirelessly climbing up to a place high above the city, it is worth the peacefulness and incredible view of such a gorgeous city. During the summer months, you can find people boating on the Mississippi River and soakin’ up the sun at Latch Beach. In the winter months the Saint Mary’s Frisbee golfing course is used for cross-country skiing and sledding. Also during the winter, the Bud King ice arena hosts open skating for the public. Winona is the place for one who enjoys a variety of outdoor activities in wet, cold, hot, sunny, and snowy weather; you get it all in this one unique place.

 To get a sense for the culture of Winona, I recommend coming to experience one of the remarkable festivals. Steamboat Days (June 17^th-22^nd), Frozen River Film Fest (January 22^nd-26^th), Great River Shakespeare Festival (June 26^th-August 4^th), and the Midwest Music Fest (April 24^th-26^th) are all happening annually. The neatest people to hear from are actors in the Voices from the Past cemetery walk (October 8-10^th), where the people who started began Winona’s culture are represented. They tell stories of historical businesses like Watkins and famous people who came here to start making movies. Still, simply driving through the city one will see the ornate houses that suggest the town’s historical side. Amongst enjoying the entertainment of these great events, one’s appetite for coffee and sandwiches will be fulfilled. Mugby Junction and Blooming Grounds are phenomenal spots to indulge in delicious coffee drinks and pastry treats. In total, Winona has seven sandwich shops that are the places for a quick yet fresh tasting meal. The majority of these cafes are located downtown where many unique shops lining the streets.The tiny shops, bluffs surrounding the city, lakes, admiration of the arts, festivals, and museums make Winona a wonderful place to visit. Winona’s unique characteristics are numerous, and it only takes a few to be drawn to this city surrounded by beautiful bluffs.