5 Fascinating Day Trips Within 1 Hour of Rochester

If you’re interested in getting away from the stresses of everyday life, you’ll find Rochester, Minnesota is ideally suited for a day out or weekend away. There are numerous attractions within an hour of Springs at South Broadway apartment community that you should consider visiting. Here's our top five:

1. Lanesboro, MN

If you’re looking for a picturesque retreat, plan your weekend getaway for Lanesboro where you can enjoy robust outdoor adventures in the breathtaking beauty of Southeastern Minnesota. Head to the Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center where you can participate in an outdoor family weekend, try the high ropes challenge course, or reserve a seat at Dinner on the Bluff where you’ll enjoy gourmet food and guest speakers. If you’re itching to hit the trails, the Preston Valley State Trail System has 60 miles for you to explore.

2. Historic Forestville

Head to Historic Forestville and step back in time to the turn of the century. Costumed characters from 1899 interact with visitors as they explore this charming town. You’ll find the Meighan family store, home, barn, garden, and fields. Don’t forget to take home a souvenir from the gift shop, where you’ll find bonnets, hats, kitchen gadgets, salt glazed pottery, and other items true to the time period.

3. Lake City, MN

As the name suggests, Lake City’s location offers ample lakeside activities, with two full-service marinas and four boat launches you can access. Guide companies also offer kayak tours and fishing excursions. If you’re spending a night away from your Rochester apartment, you can even rent a houseboat and sleep on the water.

If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, you can try navigating the nine water hazards at Lake Pepin Golf Course — one of the longest courses in the region. If you want to add some scenic elegance to your experience, don’t miss Mount Frontenac, an 18-hole golf course overlooking the lake and Mississippi River Bluffs.

4. Mantorville, MN

Mantorville is a prime destination if you’re interested in arts and crafts:

• The Mantorville Art Guild maintains a gallery in the historic district where you can browse works from many local artists.
• At the Mantorville Theatre Company, you can catch live performances in the 1917 Opera House.
• The Mantorville Brewing Company can introduce you to another type of art entirely. Tours of the microbrewery are available by appointment.

Looking for an action-packed weekend away? Head to the Treasure Island Resort and Casino in Welch, Minnesota. The casino offers slots, bingo, poker, blackjack, and pull tabs. In the Parlay Lounge, live entertainment is free to enjoy. An on-site hotel and numerous dining destinations including the Tradewinds Buffet, Tado Steakhouse, and Mongo Bay Grill, ensure all your needs are met during your retreat to Treasure Island.

Whether you’re interested in golfing, gaming, hiking, or history, there’s something you can enjoy within an hour of Rochester. Share your favorite retreats in the comments below.