• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Visit Bluff Country

A guide to Historic Bluff Country

  • Home
  • Historic Bluff Country
  • Plan Your Visit
  • Events
  • News
  • Minnesota
  • Iowa
  • Wisconsin
  • Directory
  • Visitor Guide

Preston

Preston is settled in the heart of the driftless area of southeastern Minnesota. The topography sets the stage for astounding vistas and the winding river valley. As Minnesota’s Trout Capital, Preston offers an abundance of waterways, wildlife, farm land and forests. The Root River watershed, dubbed “arguably the best” by fly fishing lovers, is part of one of the largest collections of freshwater springs in the world, easily luring the angler.

Downtown Preston boasts its own historical pride with the 1902 Milwaukee Elevator, a towering site. Also on the site are a restored 1939 Milwaukee Road boxcar, a restored motor car, and a 1951 caboose. The trailhead is nearby and beckons visitors to hike, bike, skate, and ski the paved Root River Trail system or the 18-mile Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail.

Several unique businesses dot the city and surrounding area, including apple orchards offering the best apple varieties around. Several culinary options are available in Preston: fine dining, quick and delicious made-to-order sandwiches, and the best breakfasts and burgers in the area. New to the downtown atmosphere is a family-friendly brew pub that offers coffee, beer and delicious food.

The city features two golf courses; one nine holes and the other, 18 holes. The latter is part of a resort, rated as one of the 24 Best Midwest Campgrounds by Midwest Living. The resort sits atop a sloping ridge and offers amenities such as a camping, a hostel, restaurant, and pool. Another campground sits nestled along Forestville Creek and is on a century-old farm, while a second campground is nearer to town at the county fairgrounds. Downtown offers more traditional lodging options. For those looking for an off-beat lodging experience, with all the comforts, the former Fillmore County Jail and carriage house has been completely renovated to a 12 room bed and breakfast.

A State Veterans Cemetery sits on the edge of town and is a must-see for those looking to honor our fallen heroes. Veterans from the tri-state area are buried there. With over 169 acres of rolling hills and trees, this cemetery has been recognized as the most scenic in the nation. An honorable place to honor those who have served.

Preston has prided itself in becoming a Veteran-Friendly Community. The Preston Servicemen’s Club helped create a Community Flag Program where hundreds of flags are displayed on flag holidays. It’s a truly beautiful site. Preston also became a Purple Heart City in 2019. Coming in the spring of 2023 is a State Veteran Home that will house 54 residents who require skilled-nursing. Preston will become the only city in the entire state to have a Veteran Cemetery and a Veteran Home.

Nearby, you’ll be able to check out one of the most beautiful State Parks in Minnesota, Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park!

Mystery Cave, the longest cave in the upper Midwest, owes its beginnings to the waterways. The 13-mile cave system (with potentially miles more of undiscovered caverns) is a subterranean marvel, at a constant 48º, that includes stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, fossils, and underground pools. Park naturalists lead a variety of tours, including an easy walk along lighted walkways to sites such as Turquoise Lake, a 12-foot deep pond colored a breathtaking blue by calcite; and physically challenging passes past the Garden of the Gods formation and Blue Lake, the largest pool in the cave system. For a more adventurous outing, the Wild Caving Tour will see visitors crawling and squeezing through undeveloped portions of the cave.

The cave is part of the Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park, listed as one of the Best Midwest State Parks by Midwest Living. The 3,000-acre paradise is perfect for picnicking, watching wildlife, hiking, horseback riding, skiing, or snowmobiling and home to dramatic Big Spring and The Zumbro Hill Cemetery, reflecting early life and death in the boomtown of Forestville.

Historic Forestville, also part of the park, begins with a walk across the Carnegie Steel Bridge. Visitors will step into 1899 along with costumed guides depicting the people and life in the village businesses, homes, and gardens. The village includes five original structures; the Meighen store and home, granary, carriage barn, and barn. In a reconstructed barn, a gift shop offers 19th century replicas such as kitchen gadgets and supplies, bonnets and hats, books, toys, games, and custom glazed pottery. Several signature events are held at the site each year!

Throughout the year, Preston is bustling with activity, including Trout Days festivities the third weekend in May, the Fillmore County Fair the third week of July, the Root River Trail Towns 60-Mile Garage Sale, and three nights of music at Rhythm by the River. The autumn and winter season offer Taste of the Trail in September, a tractor ride with 100 tractors in the fall, and a Turkey Day Run held Thanksgiving Day. In the winter, guests are welcome to try out Cross-Country skiing on the trail, check out Forestville State Park for snowshoeing, eat at our unique restaurants, shop, and enjoy our brand NEW brewery in downtown Preston.”

B & B Olympic Bowl

Business
B & B Olympic Bowl
Street
Hwy 52
City
Preston
State
MN
Phone
507-765-2522
Website
www.bandbbowlandrestaurant.com
Category
2021-2022, Eating & Drinking, Minnesota, Preston, Recreational
Tags
Bar, Bowling
Description

Great Fun...Great Food.Restaurant, lounge, and automatic scoring and spacious bowling area,

Bluff Country Properties Real Estate – Jeff Brogle

Business
Bluff Country Properties Real Estate – Jeff Brogle
City
Peterson
State
MN
Phone
507-577-1121
Website
bluffcountryproperties.com
Category
2021-2022, Caledonia, Canton, Chatfield, Fountain, Harmony, Houston, Lanesboro, LeRoy, Mabel, Minneiska, Minnesota, Peterson, Preston, Recreational, Rushford, Services, Spring Grove, Spring Valley, Whalan, Winona, Wykoff
Tags
Agriculture, Biking, Fishing, Hiking, Horses, Hunting, Realtor
Description

My name is Jeff Brogle. My family and I live on a farm near Peterson within Fillmore County, MN. I am the Founder and Owner of Bluff Country Properties Real Estate. I’m a trusted land specialist with a focus on hunting, farm, recreational, hobby farm, and rural home properties.

Branding Iron Restaurant & Supper Club

Business
Branding Iron Restaurant & Supper Club
Street
Hwy 52 & 16
City
Preston
State
MN
Phone
507-765-3388
Website
www.brandingironmn.com
Category
2021-2022, Eating & Drinking, Minnesota, Preston
Tags
Bar, Catering
Description

Luncheon & evening specials served daily Tuesday - Friday. Beautiful view!

City of Preston

Business
City of Preston
City
Preston
State
MN
Phone
507-765-2100
Website
prestonmnchamber.com
Category
Attractions, Minnesota, Preston, Recreational
Description

Preston Minnesota is located along the Root River in scenic Historic Bluff Country! Also known as "Minnesota's Trout Capital", Preston is a family-fun destination offering visitors a variety of entertaining, educational, and recreational activities to choose from. We are home to the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery and we are the future home of a Minnesota State Veterans Home. We pride ourselves in being a Veteran Friendly Community. Visit us for a day, weekend or better yet, make Preston your home!

Country Trails Inn & Suites

Business
Country Trails Inn & Suites
Street
809 Hwy 52 North
City
Preston
State
MN
Phone
888-378-2896
Website
countrytrailsinn.com
Category
2021-2022, Hotels & Inns, Lodging, Minnesota, Preston
Description

Free hot breakfast. Free wireless internet. 100% non smoking. 40 rooms (king, queen or doubles. 2 handicap accessible. 6 suites. Indoor pool & hot tub. Easy walking to the Preston/Harmony trail and local restaurants!

County Fair Campground

Business
County Fair Campground
Street
413 E. Fillmore Street
City
Preston
State
MN
Phone
5077652370
Website
www.fillmorecountyfair.com
Category
2021-2022, Camping, Lodging, Minnesota, Preston
Description

Located at the Fillmore County Fairgrounds. No reservations (First come first serve). Restrooms & showers, dump station, firewood & fire rings. Near the Root River. Some electric hookups. Near the Preston-Harmony Recreation Trail. Opens the beginning of April. Closed during the Fillmore County Fair.

Historic Forestville

Business
Historic Forestville
City
Forestville
State
MN
Website
www.mnhs.org/forestville
Category
Attractions, Historical Society and Genealogy, Minnesota, Preston, Recreational
Tags
History
Description

Tour this historic town as you explore the choices and changes that faced area inhabitants.

Hoffmann Tack Shop

Business
Hoffmann Tack Shop
Street
23283 US 52
City
Preston
State
MN
Phone
507-765-2250
Website
www.hoffmannstables.com
Category
2021-2022, Minnesota, Preston, Shopping
Tags
Apparel, Horses
Description

We carry a full line of English and Western tack and horse care products. We also carry clothing, jewelry and many gift items.

Jail House Inn

Business
Jail House Inn
Street
109 Houston St NW
City
Preston
State
MN
Phone
507-765-2181
Website
www.jailhouseinn.com
Category
2021-2022, Hotels & Inns, Lodging, Minnesota, Preston
Description

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 12-rrom Inn located 3 blocks from the "Root River Bike Trail". Featered on "Good Morning America", the "Today Show" and "USA Today"

JuliaClaire Consignment & Variety

Business
JuliaClaire Consignment & Variety
Street
144 Main Street
City
Preston
State
MN
Phone
507-765-2399
Website
Facebook Page
Category
2021-2022, Minnesota, Preston, Shopping
Tags
Apparel, Furniture, Gifts
Description

Women's, men's & children clothing, teamwear & sportswear, housewares & home accessories, books, games & videos, furniture.

Kelly Printing

Business
Kelly Printing
Street
21142 US-52
City
Preston
State
MN
Phone
507-765-9805
Website
kellyprintingandsigns.com
Category
Minnesota, Preston, Services, Shopping
Tags
Apparel
Description

Kelly Printing and Signs is your local Screen Printing, Embroidery, Signs, and Printing Service.

Napa Auto Parts

Business
Napa Auto Parts
Street
6113 Spring Ave. N
City
Preston
State
MN
Phone
507-765-2101
Website
prestonmnchamber.com
Category
2021-2022, Minnesota, Preston, Shopping
Tags
Auto, Gifts
Description

Hardware Store and Auto Parts Store. Large selection of items.

Old Barn Resort

Business
Old Barn Resort
City
Preston
State
MN
Website
www.barnresort.com
Category
2021-2022, Camping, Lodging, Minnesota, Preston, Recreational, Resort
Tags
Golf
Description

Eat and Play. Just down the bike trail from Lanesboro and Preston.

Pine Tree Apple Orchard

Business
Pine Tree Apple Orchard
Street
Off Hwy 52 on Co. Road 17
55965
City
Preston
State
MN
Phone
507-765-2408
Website
pinetreeappleorchard.com
Category
2021-2022, Attractions, Eating & Drinking, Minnesota, Preston, Shopping
Tags
Agriculture
Description

Apples for everybody. Apples in pies. Apples in doughnuts, rollovers, muffins and bread. Apples in the freshest cider you've ever tasted. Open August - November. Horse drawn wagon rides in the fall.

Preston Area Chamber of Commerce

Business
Preston Area Chamber of Commerce
City
Preston
State
MN
Phone
507-765-2100
Website
www.gethookedonpreston.com
Category
2021-2022, Attractions, Minnesota, Preston, Recreational, Services
Tags
Biking, Fishing, Hunting
Description

Your Southern Minnesota outdoor recreation destination.

Preston Floral

Business
Preston Floral
Street
235 St. Paul Street SW
City
Preston
State
MN
Phone
507-765-2214
Website
www.prestonfloralgift.com
Category
2021-2022, Minnesota, Preston, Shopping
Tags
Apparel, Floral, Gifts
Description

More than just flowers. We have Preston shirts and hats and much more.

Preston Foods

Business
Preston Foods
Street
105 Fillmore Street
City
Preston
State
MN
Phone
507-765-2465
Website
www.rushfordfoods.com
Category
2021-2022, Minnesota, Preston, Shopping
Tags
Grocery & Specialty Foods
Description

Full service grocery. Deli.

Preston Golf and Country Club

Business
Preston Golf and Country Club
Street
Hwy 16 West
City
Preston
State
MN
Phone
507-765-4485
Website
www.prestongolf.net
Category
Minnesota, Preston, Recreational
Tags
Golf
Description

Golfing specials, cart rental available, club house, pro-shop, watered fairways. Enjoy the views of our gently rolling 9 hole course.

Preston Motor Mart

Business
Preston Motor Mart
Street
Hwy 52 & 16
City
Preston
State
MN
Phone
507-765-3330
Category
2021-2022, Minnesota, Preston, Services, Shopping
Tags
Auto, Convenience Store, Fishing, Hunting
Description

Convience & aervice all through the Root River Valley. Hot foods & deli, convenience store, movie rentals, lottery tickets. Pay-at-Pump 24/7. Diesel fuel, LP exchange. Locally owned and operated by S&A Petroleum.

Preston Pop-up/Farmers Market

Business
Preston Pop-up/Farmers Market
Street
North side of courthouse
City
Preston
State
MN
Category
2021-2022, Minnesota, Preston, Shopping
Tags
Farmers Market
Description

May 9, June 13, July 11, August 8, September 19 - 2020 - Saturdays 11-2.

Root River Hardwoods

Business
Root River Hardwoods
Street
1300 Energy Drive
City
Preston
State
MN
Phone
507-765-2284
Website
www.rootriverhardwoods.com
Category
2021-2022, Minnesota, Preston, Services, Shopping
Tags
Specialty Services
Description

Kiln dried lumber stores. More than just lumber. Specializing in trim, flooring, paneling, stair parts, interior doors. Skip the middleman and buy direct from the sawmill. Also located in Albert Lea, MN.

The Driftless Fly Fishing Company

Business
The Driftless Fly Fishing Company
Street
208 St. Paul Street SW
City
Preston
State
MN
Phone
507-327-4276
Website
www.minnesotaflyfishing.com
Category
2021-2022, Minnesota, Preston, Recreational, Shopping
Tags
Apparel, Fishing, Tours
Description

Minnesota's Trout Capital on the South Branch of the Root River! Call or email Mel to book guided trips. Guided trips, flies for area streams, gear, tackle, local info, fly fishing lessons, wader repair

The Sweet Stop and Sandwich Shoppe

Business
The Sweet Stop and Sandwich Shoppe
Street
110 St. Anthony Street S
City
Preston
State
MN
Website
www.thesweetstop.net
Category
2021-2022, Eating & Drinking, Minnesota, Preston
Tags
Coffee, Ice Cream
Description

Something for everyone. Subs, sweets, soup, salads & sodas. Free WiFi.

Trailhead Inn and Suites

Business
Trailhead Inn and Suites
Street
112 Center Street
City
Preston
State
MN
Phone
507-765-2460
Website
http://www.trailheadinnpreston.com/
Category
2021-2022, Hotels & Inns, Lodging, Minnesota, Preston
Description

Located directly on the Root River State Bike Trail. 24 spacious rooms: Suites, doubles, singles, complimentary breakfast, hot tub & sauna room, conference room, honeymoon suite! 2 new cabins.

Trout City Brewing

Business
Trout City Brewing
Street
132 St. Anthony St. S
City
Preston
State
MN
Phone
507-993-3706
Website
troutcitybrewing.com
Category
2021-2022, Eating & Drinking, Minnesota, Preston
Tags
Coffee, Craft Beer, Wine
Description

Trout City Brewing is a family-owned brewpub based on the idea of serving "just good beer." Located on the Root River, our small town of Preston has rightfully earned its name as Minnesota’s Trout Capital. Drawing anglers, cyclists and nature enthusiasts for generations, Preston is home to good people – and good beer.
Beer, Food, Wine, Cider, Espresso. Our own beer brewed onsite.

Urban Artifacts

Business
Urban Artifacts
Street
117 Fillmore Street W
City
Preston
State
MN
Phone
507-202-6996
Website
urbanartifactsprestonmn.com
Category
2021-2022, Minnesota, Preston, Shopping
Tags
Furniture, Specialty Services
Description

Unique art, clocks and furniture pieces. Dixie Belle Paint. Blue Q socks and accessories. Paint and project classes.

Primary Sidebar

PRESTON WEATHER

Upcoming Preston Events

There are no upcoming events.

View Calendar
Add
  • Add to Timely Calendar
  • Add to Google
  • Add to Outlook
  • Add to Apple Calendar
  • Add to other calendar
  • Export to XML

Minnesota Towns

  • Caledonia
  • Canton
  • Chatfield
  • Fountain
  • Harmony
  • Hokah
  • Houston
  • Kellogg
  • La Crescent
  • Lake City
  • Lanesboro
  • LeRoy
  • Mabel
  • Millville
  • Nodine
  • Peterson
  • Plainview
  • Preston
  • Reads Landing
  • Rushford
  • Spring Grove
  • Spring Valley
  • Wabasha
  • Whalan
  • Winona
  • Wykoff

Before Footer

Historic Bluff Country, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Adams, Austin, Caledonia, Canton, Chatfield, Fountain, Harmony, Houston, Kellogg, Lanesboro, LeRoy, Mabel, Millville, Minneiska, Peterson, Plainview, Preston, Reads Landing, Red Wing, Rushford, Rushford Village, Spring Grove, Spring Valley, St. Charles, Wabasha, Whalan, Winona, Wykoff, Burr Oak, Charles City, Clermont, Cresco, Decorah, Dubuque, Dyersville, Elkader, Fort Atkinson, Froelich, Guttenberg, Hawkeye, Kendallville, Lansing, Lawler, Lime Springs, McGregor, Marquette, Osage, Protivin, Riceville, St. Ansgar, Spillville, Waukon, Alma, La Crosse, Platteville, Tomah, Viroqua, Warrens, Galena, Antiques, Apparel, Art Galleries, Financial, Banking, Craft Beer, Winery, Distillery, Brewery, Camping, B&B, Bread and Breakfast, Vacation Rentals, Amish, Scenic Byway, River, Fishing, Hunting, Canoe, Kayak, Tubing, Fly Fish, Golf, Recreation, Hiking, Theatre, Movies, Shopping, Gifts, Niagara Cave, Commonweal, Spam Museum, Root River State Trail, Beaver Creek Valley State Park, Horse Riding, Tours, Biking, Rentals, Skiing, Music, Stand Still Parade, Trout, Prairie Visions, Shooting Star, Lake Louise State Park, Steam Engines, Grumpy Old Men, Museums, Lakes, Upper Iowa River, Mississippi River, Laura Ingalss Wilder, Apple Blossom, Cranberry Festival, Veterans

Footer

Visit Bluff Country

Enter to Win

  • The Best Winners
  • The Best Contest Entry
  • Choose Your Adventure Entry

Receive News & Information

Check your inbox or spam folder to confirm your subscription.

Plan Your Visit

  • Historic Bluff Country
  • Plan Your Visit
  • Visitor Centers
  • State Parks
  • Scenic Byways
  • Trails
  • Waterways
  • Farmers Markets
  • Eat & Drink
  • Recreation
  • Attractions
  • Shopping
  • Lodging
  • Services

Information

  • Events
  • Directory
  • Bluff Country News & Stories
  • Minnesota
  • Iowa
  • Wisconsin
  • Visitor Guide
  • Submit Your Photos
  • Advertise
  • Visit Bluff Country Distribution
  • Home

Minnesota Towns

  • Caledonia
  • Canton
  • Chatfield
  • Fountain
  • Harmony
  • Hokah
  • Houston
  • Kellogg
  • La Crescent
  • Lake City
  • Lanesboro
  • LeRoy
  • Mabel
  • Millville
  • Nodine
  • Peterson
  • Plainview
  • Preston
  • Reads Landing
  • Rushford
  • Spring Grove
  • Spring Valley
  • Wabasha
  • Whalan
  • Winona
  • Wykoff

Iowa Towns

  • Bluffton
  • Burr Oak
  • Calmar
  • Charles City
  • Clermont
  • Cresco
  • Decorah
  • Dyersville
  • Elkader
  • Fort Atkinson
  • Hawkeye
  • Highlandville
  • Kendallville
  • Lansing
  • Lime Springs
  • New Hampton
  • Marquette-McGregor
  • Protivin
  • Riceville
  • Waukon

Wisconsin Towns

  • Alma
  • Galesville
  • La Crosse
  • Onalaska
  • Prairie du Chien
  • Warrens

Winery Brewery Distillery Tour Map in Bluff Country Minnesota Iowa and Wisconsin

© 2023 · Website Design and Hosting by SMG Web Design of Preston, MN.