Racine MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Racine, Minnesota.
1. Deer Creek Speedway
RACING AND FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT
Deer Creek Speedway is a popular racing venue near Racine that offers thrilling motorsport events throughout the racing season. Visitors can enjoy various racing categories including late models, modifieds, and sprint cars on the high-banked 3/8 mile dirt track. The family-friendly facility features comfortable seating, concessions, and an electric atmosphere that has made it a favorite destination for racing enthusiasts across the region.
2. Four Daughters Vineyard & Winery
AWARD-WINNING LOCAL WINES
Four Daughters Vineyard & Winery is a charming family-owned establishment offering visitors a taste of Minnesota's growing wine culture. Guests can enjoy wine tastings, tour the production facilities, and learn about the winemaking process while enjoying the picturesque vineyard setting. The winery also features a restaurant serving farm-to-table cuisine that pairs perfectly with their award-winning wines and ciders.
3. Masonic Park
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION
Masonic Park offers visitors a peaceful natural retreat with beautiful outdoor spaces perfect for picnics, family gatherings, and outdoor recreation. The park features well-maintained grounds, scenic walking paths, and convenient amenities that make it a local favorite for relaxation. Visitors appreciate the tranquil setting and historical significance of this community landmark near Racine.
4. Spring Valley Methodist Church Museum
HISTORICAL RELIGIOUS HERITAGE
The Spring Valley Methodist Church Museum preserves the religious heritage of the region in a beautifully maintained historic church building. Inside, visitors can explore exhibits showcasing local religious history, historical artifacts, and the architectural features of this significant structure. The museum offers a glimpse into the spiritual and community life of early settlers in the area through thoughtfully curated displays and informative presentations.
5. Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park
UNDERGROUND NATURAL WONDER
Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park features Minnesota's longest known cave system with guided tours showcasing spectacular stalactites, stalagmites, and underground pools. Visitors can explore the historic Forestville townsite, which has been restored to its 1899 appearance, providing a glimpse into Minnesota's pioneer past. The park also offers excellent trout fishing in the spring-fed streams, hiking trails through diverse landscapes, and camping facilities for overnight stays.
6. Down Under
LOCAL CHARM AND SHOPPING
Down Under is a unique local establishment located on Main Street in Spring Valley, offering visitors a taste of authentic small-town charm. The venue provides a welcoming atmosphere where both locals and tourists can gather to experience the genuine hospitality of southeastern Minnesota. Visitors appreciate the distinctive character and community-centered approach that makes Down Under a noteworthy stop when exploring the Racine area.
7. Spring Valley Tourist Information Center
GATEWAY TO LOCAL ATTRACTIONS
The Spring Valley Tourist Information Center serves as the essential first stop for visitors exploring the Racine area and surrounding communities. Helpful staff provide maps, brochures, and insider tips on local attractions, dining options, and seasonal events throughout the region. The center offers a wealth of resources to help travelers make the most of their visit to southeastern Minnesota with personalized recommendations based on visitors' interests.
8. Ironside Axe Club Rochester
THRILLING AXE THROWING EXPERIENCE
Ironside Axe Club Rochester offers visitors an exciting and unique recreational experience with indoor axe throwing in a safe, supervised environment. Trained coaches teach proper techniques and safety protocols before guests test their skills at hitting targets in friendly competition. The venue provides a distinctive entertainment option for groups, parties, and individuals looking for an unconventional activity with a primal thrill factor.
9. History Center of Olmsted County
RICH REGIONAL HERITAGE
The History Center of Olmsted County preserves and showcases the rich heritage of Rochester and the surrounding region through engaging exhibits and historic structures. Visitors can tour Mayowood, the former home of Dr. Charlie Mayo, co-founder of the Mayo Clinic, for an intimate glimpse into the personal lives of the Mayo family. The center's collections and programs provide valuable insights into the development of medicine, agriculture, and community life in southeastern Minnesota.
10. Spark Children's Museum
INTERACTIVE LEARNING THROUGH PLAY
Spark Children's Museum invites children and families to engage with immersive, hands-on exhibits designed to stimulate curiosity and creativity. The museum focuses on play-based learning experiences that encourage visitors to interact directly with exhibits rather than simply observing. Through thoughtfully designed spaces and activities, Spark nurtures cognitive development and imagination in an environment where education and entertainment seamlessly blend.
11. Charles E. Gagnon Museum & Sculpture Garden
CELEBRATED BRONZE ARTISTRY
The Charles E. Gagnon Museum & Sculpture Garden celebrates the artistic legacy of Charles Gagnon, a renowned Minnesota sculptor whose bronze works can be found worldwide. Visitors can explore the museum's collection showcasing Gagnon's masterful techniques and artistic vision in a thoughtfully curated space. The attached sculpture garden provides an outdoor gallery experience where art and nature harmoniously combine to create a contemplative and inspiring environment.
12. Gallery on First
FINE ART DOWNTOWN SHOWCASE
Gallery on First features exceptional artwork from top regional and international artists in the heart of Downtown Rochester. The gallery's convenient location makes it an accessible cultural destination for both locals and visitors to the area. Art enthusiasts can browse diverse collections spanning various mediums and styles while appreciating the gallery's contribution to Rochester's vibrant arts scene.
13. Quarry Hill Nature Center
NATURAL SCIENCE DISCOVERY
Quarry Hill Nature Center invites visitors to explore the diverse ecosystems of southeastern Minnesota through interactive exhibits, live animals, and extensive outdoor trails. The center's 329-acre park features meadows, flood plain forests, and upland woods that can be enjoyed year-round through hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing. Educational programs and interpretive displays help guests connect with the natural world while developing a deeper appreciation for local environmental heritage.
14. Wind Point Lighthouse
HISTORIC MARITIME LANDMARK
The Wind Point Lighthouse stands as a majestic 108-foot tall beacon on the shores of Lake Michigan in Racine, Wisconsin. Constructed in 1880, this historic lighthouse continues to guide mariners and has become one of the area's most photographed and visited landmarks. Visitors can climb the tower during special events, explore the keeper's quarters, and enjoy the surrounding park with beautiful lake views and picnic areas.
15. SC Johnson Headquarters
ARCHITECTURAL MASTERPIECE TOUR
The SC Johnson Headquarters offers visitors the rare opportunity to tour an operational corporate campus designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The Administration Building (1939) and Research Tower (1950) showcase Wright's innovative organic architecture with dramatic spaces, unique columns, and abundant natural light. Free guided tours take guests through these architectural masterpieces along with the Norman Foster-designed Fortaleza Hall, making this a must-see destination for architecture enthusiasts.