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A guide to Historic Bluff Country

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Winona

Expansive panoramas, stately bluffs rising against the edges of thick, forested valleys, and in the middle of it all, a city on a massive sandbar along the powerful Mississippi River. Winona is a quintessential river city rich in history, culture, arts, architecture, and natural beauty.

Home to the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife & Fish Refuge, the river provides a backdrop for limitless wildlife — literally millions of birds — and aquatic life on the Mississippi River Flyway. At Great River Bluffs State Park, dense hardwood forests and native wildflower prairies frame the valley below. Named one of the “Best Places to See Fall Color” by CBS Minnesota, it’s no wonder why it has also been chosen one of National Geographic’s “World’s Greatest Driving Tours.”

Looking out from the highest vantage point, 450-feet above the city, is the famous Sugar Loaf landmark, which resulted from limestone quarrying in the 1880s. Native American legend ties the site to the well-known cap of Dakota Nation Chief Wapahasha, turned to stone. Outdoor enthusiasts will be keen to hike trails up the bluff to its base, offering a dramatic view point.

Across the bluff, sits Garvin Heights Park with 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 Bandshell. Levee Park allows an up-close encounter with the Mississippi River. Occasionally, paddlewheel and other historic riverboats still dock here.

The city’s origins and the wealth that swept the area are obvious in the lavish architecture. Walking tours of historic homes, churches, banks, and courthouse highlight the culture of early settlers. Astounding glass art within the city has earned Winona the designation of Stained Glass Capital of the U.S. Attractions such as the Minnesota Marine Art Museum, Polish Cultural Institute and Museum, Watkins Heritage Museum, and Winona County History Center continue the storytelling of Winona’s 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. Theatre du Mississippi, a professional company, the Performance Center at St. Mary’s University, Winona State University Arts, Theatre, & Dance, and Valencia Arts Center continue to grow the development and production of arts programs.

Weekend and extended festivals have become a popular draw to Winona. Mid West Music Fest (April), Dixieland Jazz Festival (June), Minnesota Beethoven Festival (June-July), six-week Great River Shakespeare Festival (June-August), Boats and Bluegrass Festival (September), and Frozen River Film Festival (February), beckon visitors to not only enjoy the arts, but to participate. The Great Dakota Gathering, (September), 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.

The Great River Road Wine Trail rests in the Upper Mississippi River Valley American Viticulture Area, the nation’s largest. A vineyard sits atop the bluff outside the city, producing choice wines from cold climate grapes grown on the farm and finished in oak barrels of native Minnesota oak. The Winona area also boasts two craft breweries.

Minnesota’s best bakery, as voted in 2013, is located in Winona. Other delightful culinary options range from baked goods to thriving coffee spots and cafés, gourmet dining overlooking a golf course, and ethnic restaurants. For fun, historic fare, visitors can’t beat a stop at the local drive-in, complete with homemade root beer and friendly carhop service.

Throughout the city, shops and boutiques offer up everything from antiques and collectibles to music and books, and specialty boutiques to recreational retailers outfitters. Ample hotels, B&Bs, cabins, cottages, lodges, guesthouses, and campgrounds make lodging in Winona a simple matter of choice.

AmericInn by Wyndham

Business
AmericInn by Wyndham
Street
303 Pelzer St
City
Winona
State
MN
Phone
507-474-7700
Website
AmericInn.com
Category
2023-2024, Hotels & Inns, Lodging, Minnesota, Winona
Description

Located off Highway 61, AmericInn Hotel & Suites Winona gives you easy access to the campuses of Winona State University and Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. Our Group Tour Friendly hotel is a short drive from La Crosse Regional Airport (LSE) and just minutes from Lake Winona and the Mississippi River. Head downtown for great local dining and shopping, as well as riverside parks with plenty of outdoor activities.

Brewski’s Pub & Grill

Business
Brewski’s Pub & Grill
Street
Hwy 61 & 43
City
Winona
State
MN
Website
Facebook Page
Category
2023-2024, Eating & Drinking, Minnesota, Winona
Tags
pizza
Description

All items from fresh ingredients. Pizza, Wings, Specialty Burgers, Salads, Specialty Beers and Drink Specials. Located in Express Suites & next to Fairfield Inn.

Days Inn

Business
Days Inn
Street
420 Cottonwood Drive
City
Winona
State
MN
Phone
507-454-6930
Website
www.daysinn.com/hotel/06756
Category
2023-2024, Hotels & Inns, Lodging, Minnesota, Winona
Description

Free hot breakfast with fresh hot waffles. Free secure wireless internet. 100% non-smoking. Walking distance to Mango's Mexican & American Grille and Ground Round Grill & Sports Bar.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott

Business
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott
Street
925 Bruski Dr
City
Winona
State
MN
Phone
507-474-2500
Website
marriott.com
Category
2023-2024, Hotels & Inns, Lodging, Minnesota, Winona
Description

Experience Fairfield Inn & Suites Winona, conveniently located off the intersection of Highway 61 and Highway 43. While staying at our hotel, you'll find yourself just steps away from immersing yourself in historic downtown, admiring scenic views from Garvin Heights Park, exploring the Mississippi River Valley or visiting the stunning campuses of Winona State University.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites

Business
Holiday Inn Express & Suites
Street
Hwy 43 & 61
City
Winona
State
MN
Phone
507-474-1700
Website
www.hiexpress.com/winona/mn
Category
2023-2024, Hotels & Inns, Lodging, Minnesota, Winona
Description

Unbeatable free hot breakfast, 2-room suites, whirlpool rooms, refrigerators & microwaves in all rooms. 37" flat screen TV, indoor pool, sauna, kiddie pool, meeting room facilities, gift opening room.

Island City Brewing Co.

Business
Island City Brewing Co.
Street
65 East Front St.
City
Winona
State
MN
Phone
507-961-5015
Website
islandcitybrew.com
Category
2023-2024, Eating & Drinking, Minnesota, Winona
Tags
Craft Beer
Description

A community of beer enthusiasts and beginners alike.

River City Grill

Business
River City Grill
Street
Hwys 61 & 43
City
Winona
State
MN
Phone
507-452-5400
Website
rivercitybargrill.com
Category
2023-2024, Eating & Drinking, Minnesota, Winona
Tags
pizza
Description

American/Italian - Farm to Table Selections. On Site of The Plaza.

Riverport Inn & Suites

Business
Riverport Inn & Suites
Street
Hwys 43 & 61
City
Winona
State
MN
Phone
507-452-0606
Website
www.riverportinn.com
Category
2023-2024, Hotels & Inns, Lodging, Minnesota, Winona
Tags
Event Center
Description

Deluxe breakfast bar, indoor pool, whirlpool, exercise room, whirlpool rooms. 106 rooms and suites. Brewski's Pub and Grill. Conference rooms for up to 400 persons.

The Plaza Hotel & Suites

Business
The Plaza Hotel & Suites
Street
Hwy 43 & 61
City
Winona
State
MN
Phone
507-453-0303
Website
www.plazawinona.com
Category
2023-2024, Hotels & Inns, Lodging, Minnesota, Winona
Description

Kids stay and eat free. Each room includes refrigerator, microwave and a TV in the bathroom! Whirlpool rooms. Large kiddie pool. Meeting rooms. fitness center, 2-room suites, room service.

Treasures Under Sugar Loaf

Business
Treasures Under Sugar Loaf
Street
1023 Sugar Loaf Road
City
Winona
State
MN
Phone
507-474-7030
Website
www.treasuresundersugarloaf.com
Category
2023-2024, Minnesota, Shopping, Winona
Tags
Antiques
Description

Antiques, collectibles, and home décor.

Winona County History Center

Business
Winona County History Center
Street
160 Johnson Street
City
Winona
State
MN
Phone
507-454-2723
Website
www.winonahistory.org
Category
2023-2024, Attractions, Historical Society and Genealogy, Minnesota, Winona
Tags
History, Museum
Description

Three floors of exhibits, museum shop, research library and archives. Programs and events.

Winona Farmers Market

Business
Winona Farmers Market
Category
2023-2024, Minnesota, Shopping, Winona
Tags
Farmers Market
Description

Summer Market: May through October
Saturdays 7:30am-12pm
Winona Levee Park, 2nd St. and Main

Winter Market: November through April
1st and 3rd Saturdays
East End Rec Center, 210 Zumbro Street.

Winona Tour Boat

Business
Winona Tour Boat
City
Winona
State
MN
Phone
507-458-2842
Website
winonatourboat.com
Category
2023-2024, Attractions, Minnesota, Winona
Tags
Tours
Description

See the Beautiful Mississippi River Up-Close. Daily river cruises. Private Parties.

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Upcoming Events in Minnesota

Sep
21
Thu
all-day Boats and Bluegrass Festival – W...
Boats and Bluegrass Festival – W...
Sep 21 – Sep 24 all-day
 
all-day Fall Festival – Wykoff, MN
Fall Festival – Wykoff, MN
Sep 21 – Sep 24 all-day
 
Sep
23
Sat
all-day SeptOberfest – Wabasha, MN
SeptOberfest – Wabasha, MN
Sep 23 all-day
 
Sep
29
Fri
all-day Lake Louise Candlelight Walk – L...
Lake Louise Candlelight Walk – L...
Sep 29 all-day
 
Sep
30
Sat
all-day SeptOberfest – Wabasha, MN
SeptOberfest – Wabasha, MN
Sep 30 all-day
 
Oct
7
Sat
all-day Fall into Lanesboro – Lanesboro, MN
Fall into Lanesboro – Lanesboro, MN
Oct 7 all-day
 
all-day SeptOberfest – Wabasha, MN
SeptOberfest – Wabasha, MN
Oct 7 all-day
 
all-day Uffda Fest – Spring Grove, MN
Uffda Fest – Spring Grove, MN
Oct 7 – Oct 8 all-day
 
Oct
14
Sat
all-day SeptOberfest – Wabasha, MN
SeptOberfest – Wabasha, MN
Oct 14 all-day
 
all-day The Filthy 50 Bike Race – Lanesb...
The Filthy 50 Bike Race – Lanesb...
Oct 14 all-day
 
Oct
20
Fri
all-day Hot Air Balloon Rally – Caledoni...
Hot Air Balloon Rally – Caledoni...
Oct 20 – Oct 22 all-day
 
Oct
21
Sat
all-day Rushford Arts & Crafts Fair – Ru... @ R-P Schools
Rushford Arts & Crafts Fair – Ru... @ R-P Schools
Oct 21 all-day
Rushford’s largest annual arts and crafts fair, now in its 42nd year! The Rushford Arts & Crafts Fair features handmade arts and crafts of all kinds. Whether shopping for yourself or a special gift, you[...]
all-day SeptOberfest – Wabasha, MN
SeptOberfest – Wabasha, MN
Oct 21 all-day
 
Oct
28
Sat
all-day Haunted Harmony – Harmony, MN
Haunted Harmony – Harmony, MN
Oct 28 all-day
 
Nov
23
Thu
all-day Fillmore County Turkey Day Run –...
Fillmore County Turkey Day Run –...
Nov 23 all-day
 
Nov
25
Sat
all-day Experience the Magic of Lanesbor...
Experience the Magic of Lanesbor...
Nov 25 all-day
 
all-day Houston Arts Festival – Houston, MN
Houston Arts Festival – Houston, MN
Nov 25 all-day
 
Dec
1
Fri
all-day Winter Wonderland Parade – Caled...
Winter Wonderland Parade – Caled...
Dec 1 all-day
 
Dec
2
Sat
all-day Hollidazzle – Houston, MN
Hollidazzle – Houston, MN
Dec 2 all-day
 
Dec
8
Fri
all-day Christmas in La Crescent, MN
Christmas in La Crescent, MN
Dec 8 – Dec 14 all-day
 

Minnesota Towns

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

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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

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136 St. Anthony Street
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Minnesota Towns

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

Iowa Towns

  • Bluffton
  • Burr Oak
  • Charles City
  • Clermont
  • Cresco
  • Decorah
  • Elkader
  • Hawkeye
  • Highlandville
  • Lansing
  • Lime Springs
  • Marquette-McGregor
  • Riceville
  • Waukon

Wisconsin Towns

  • Alma
  • Galesville
  • La Crosse
  • Onalaska
  • Pepin
  • Platteville
  • Prairie du Chien
  • Stockholm
  • Warrens

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

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