By Charlene Corson Selbee
Looking for small-town charm, made-from-scratch croissants, and a steam engine or two? Mabel, Minnesota, has all that and more.
Located in the scenic historic Bluff Country of southeast Minnesota, surrounded by lush green, rolling farmland and the Big Woods, you are sure to fall in love with Mabel.
1. Hesper-Mabel Steam Engine Days
The Hesper-Mabel Steam Engine Days has been a beloved tradition since 1953, when it was held in Hesper, Iowa. This popular celebration draws visitors from across Bluff Country to downtown Mabel. The festivities take place at Steam Engine Park at the south end of main street. Think of Steam Engine Days as an outdoor living museum, where you can learn about farming during the 19th century, enjoy live musical entertainment, savor great food, watch three parades, attend a gospel church service, and let the kids join in the fun.
2. Mabel Sportsmen’s Park
Just four and a half miles from Mabel, this quiet, well-maintained park is a favorite local park with a lot of history. Set along a fast-moving trout stream, it’s a beautiful spot that holds tons of memories for folks from Southeast Minnesota and just across the border in Iowa. Once home to a beloved Fourth of July celebration, the park still echoes with nostalgia.
Today, it’s still open to the public and perfect for camping, fishing, or just hanging out and enjoying a quiet picnic or taking pictures. The kids will love the playground. If you plan on fishing, make sure to get a Minnesota fishing license first. Note that only members of the Mabel Sportsmen Club are allowed to use the gun range.
3. Newburg Vintage Home and Garden and Small Batch Bakery
A French-inspired bakery in the heart of the Midwest? Absolutely! Just minutes north of Mabel, in the quaint village of Newburg, this charming shop offers irresistible pastries and hands-on classes-yes, even how to make perfect croissants. Housed in a restored 100-year-old-plus mercantile, owners Irene and Glenn Fishburn have lovingly revived the space with personal, thoughtful touches. Outside, a stunning garden surrounds the bakery and welcomes visitors when the Zinnias reach full bloom in late July. Keep in mind, the bakery is only open on Saturday mornings. For updates and seasonal happenings, follow them on Facebook.
4. Mabel House Hotel
Enjoy a comfortable, relaxing stay at the historic Mabel House Hotel, the oldest continuously operating hotel in the state of Minnesota. A charming landmark conveniently located in the heart of town, it’s the perfect home base for exploring the area, or joining in the excitement of Steam Engine Days. It’s an ideal spot to unwind after a day of adventure in this scenic corner of southeast Minnesota.
5. Nestling Pines Treehouse
Nestled just outside of Mabel at the edge of the Big Woods, the Nestling Pines Treehouse offers a unique lodging experience. This cozy, elevated escape allows you to unwind, reconnect with nature, and enjoy a restful night’s sleep surrounded by towering pine trees and tranquil scenery. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway or a quiet place to recharge, the Nestling Pines Treehouse promises a memorable stay unlike any other.
6. Larson’s Trustworthy Hardware
Step into a living piece of Mabel’s history at Larson’s Hardware, a longtime fixture in the community that’s as dependable as it is nostalgic. From everyday essentials to unexpected treasures, this classic small-town hardware store seems to have it all. If you’re searching for something, there’s a good chance you’ll find it here. With its friendly service and old-fashioned charm, Larson’s is more than a store-it’s a local tradition.
7. Mabel Village Farm & Home
Mabel Village Farm & Home is the kind of store where you can find just about anything you need-and probably a few things you didn’t know you needed. Like many classic small-town hardware stores, it offers an incredible variety of items; kitchenware, canning supplies, tools, bird feeders and bird seed, office supplies, plants, clothing, boots, BBQ pellets, keys, batteries, seeds, toys, paint, stock tanks, tack, and so much more. It’s a one-stop shop for locals and visitors alike.
8. Mabel Flowers & Gifts
This quaint florist and gift shop is a must-visit. Step into LeAnn’s downtown store and soak up the fragrance, vibrant colors, and small-town hospitality. It’s the kind of place where everyone feels like a regular.
9. Debbie’s Corner
No trip to Mabel is complete without a stop to Debbie’s antique store, a local gem run by Mabel resident Debbie herself. Inside, you’ll discover a carefully curated collection of antiques and collectibles that reflect the spirit of the area, each piece with its own story to tell. Be sure to take a moment to admire the vibrant mural painted on the side of the building, a tribute to the town’s railroading history.
10. Steuart’s Natural Health Retail Store
Treat yourself with a visit to Steuart’s Natural Health Retail Store, located on Main Street in downtown Mabel. For over 40 years, Steuart’s has been offering natural health products-long before holistic wellness became mainstream. They specialize in pain relief salves.
11. El Dorado Mexican Restaurant
Mabel’s newest restaurant offers classic Midwestern favorites and traditional Mexican cuisine-something to please every palate. Start your meal with warm tortilla chips and a fresh red salsa, then enjoy a refreshing margarita that’s as pretty as it is tasty. Come hungry-the portions are generous, and the margaritas are large.
Photos by By Charlene Corson Selbee
