In the heart of the upper Midwest’s Driftless Area, you’ll come upon a stunning sliver of land.
Flanked by formidable 500-foot bluffs and the mighty Mississippi’s flow, Winona, Minn., offers a blend of the best of nature’s beauty and the buzz of a city steeped in charm and wild ways. Here, historic structures harbor modern businesses; eateries amaze, museums marvel, and outdoor activities abound all year round. Unassuming yet outgoing. Scholarly but sensible. Quiet and quirky. Winona is a pristine piece of paradise left untouched by receding glaciers over 10,000 years ago and a ready retreat perfectly positioned to provide a rare respite today. And although Winona sits beneath soaring bluffs, that’s just one of the reasons people who find themselves here find themselves looking up.
Winona is your next wonderfully wild getaway. Boasting the only Winter Ice Park in the region, two beautiful lakes, boating and kayaking rentals, guided river boat tours, and copious amounts of hiking, Winona has something for every adventurer. High above the city, Winona’s famous Sugarloaf Landmark and Garvin Heights Park offer inspiring outlooks, hiking, and restored goat prairies. Below, encircling Lake Winona, is Lake Park, home to the C.A. Rohrer Rose Garden, Veterans Memorial Park and historic Bandshell. In downtown Winona, Levee Park gives guests an up-close retreat on the Mississippi River.
The city’s port origins and wealth that swept the area are apparent in the lavish architecture. Historic homes, churches, banks, and courthouse highlight the designs of the past. Astounding glass art within the city has earned Winona the designation of Stained Glass Capital of the U.S. The Minnesota Marine Art Museum, Kashubian Cultural Institute and Polish Museum, Watkins 1868 Museum, and Winona County History Center continue the storytelling of our past and present.
Fine and performing arts thrive in Winona. Area artisans’ diverse works are showcased in a variety of places, and many of the artists participate in the Bluff Country Studio Arts Tour each spring. Hurry Back Productions, Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts, Theatre du Mississippi, and Winona State University Arts, Theatre, & Dance, continue to grow the development and production of arts programs.
Unique festivals originating in Winona have become a popular draw for locals and visitors alike. Mid-West Music Fest, Minnesota Beethoven Festival, Great River Shakespeare Festival, Boats and Bluegrass Festival, and Frozen River Film Festival beckon guests to enjoy live music, great food, amazing art and more. The Great Dakota Gathering honors the native people who inhabit this land. Created with sacred stonework and native prairie plantings, the site sets the stage for the Wacipi (pow wow), Akicita (warrior/veterans) Honor Ceremony, educational exhibits and demonstrations, and authentic crafts, arts, and foods celebrating the rich heritage of the people.
Whether you’re driving the beautiful bluffs to tour the Great River Road Wine Trail or stopping by one of our area’s orchards, the Winona area has something for every family member and friend. Hungry for more? Delightful culinary options range from our claim-to-fame local donut shop to cozy coffee spots and sandwich cafés. We offer a diverse range of restaurants, elevated bars, live music, and nightlife.
Throughout the city, shops and boutiques pepper charming street corners offering gifts and keepsakes galore. Ample hotels, B&Bs, cabins, lodges, guesthouses, and campgrounds make Winona your place for a change of pace.
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