Rothsay MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Rothsay, Minnesota.
1. Rothsay Prairie Chicken Statue
WORLD'S LARGEST PRAIRIE CHICKEN
The Rothsay Prairie Chicken Statue stands proudly as the world's largest prairie chicken sculpture and serves as the town's most recognizable landmark. Visitors can marvel at this unique roadside attraction that celebrates the local prairie chicken population that once thrived in the surrounding grasslands. The 13-foot tall, 9,000-pound statue was erected in 1976 and continues to be a popular photo opportunity for travelers passing through on Interstate 94.
2. Quarry Hill Nature Center
NATURE EXPLORATION AND HIKING
Quarry Hill Nature Center offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy the beauty and habitat of southeastern Minnesota through its extensive trail system. Nature enthusiasts can explore 8 miles of trails covering 329 acres of meadows, flood plain, and upland forests through various activities including hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing. The center serves as an educational resource with wildlife exhibits and programs that highlight the region's natural diversity.
3. Mayowood Historic Home
MAYO FAMILY HISTORIC ESTATE
Mayowood Historic Home provides visitors with a fascinating glimpse into the personal lives of Dr. Charlie Mayo, co-founder of the Mayo Clinic, and his son, Dr. Chuck Mayo. The tour of this magnificent estate allows guests to celebrate the amazing legacy of the Mayo family and their contributions to medicine. This specialty museum houses historical artifacts, original furnishings, and beautiful gardens that showcase the family's lifestyle and influence on Rochester's development.
4. Plummer House
HISTORIC TUDOR MANSION
The Plummer House stands as a magnificent Tudor mansion in Rochester's SW historical area, drawing visitors with its architectural splendor and historical significance. This historic site was once the home of Dr. Henry Plummer, an influential Mayo Clinic physician who made significant contributions to medical practice and facility design. Visitors can explore the beautifully preserved residence and its manicured grounds that offer insight into Rochester's past and the lives of its prominent citizens.
5. The Plummer Building - Mayo Clinic Historical Suite
ICONIC MEDICAL LANDMARK
The Plummer Building houses the Mayo Clinic Historical Suite, an essential stop for those interested in medical history and the development of one of the world's premier healthcare institutions. This point of interest features exhibits that chronicle the evolution of the Mayo Clinic and its groundbreaking contributions to medicine over more than a century. Visitors particularly appreciate this landmark when in Rochester for appointments at the Mayo Clinic, as it provides historical context for the institution's current prominence.
6. Salem Glen Vineyard and Winery
LOCAL WINE TASTING EXPERIENCE
Salem Glen Vineyard and Winery invites visitors to experience Minnesota's growing wine culture in a picturesque rural setting near Rochester. Wine enthusiasts can sample locally produced varieties made from cold-hardy grapes specially developed for the northern climate. The winery offers tastings, tours, and special events that showcase the art of winemaking while providing a relaxing atmosphere to unwind and enjoy the scenic countryside.
7. Eastwood Golf Course
PREMIER PUBLIC GOLF EXPERIENCE
Eastwood Golf Course welcomes golfers of all skill levels to enjoy its well-maintained fairways and challenging layout. The course features beautiful landscaping with water hazards, strategic bunkers, and diverse terrain that provides an engaging round of golf. Visitors appreciate the professional facilities, including a clubhouse, pro shop, and practice areas that enhance the overall golfing experience.
8. Hadley Creek Golf Course
SCENIC RECREATIONAL GOLFING
Hadley Creek Golf Course offers a more relaxed golfing experience with its player-friendly layout designed for enjoyment rather than extreme challenge. The course winds through natural landscapes featuring creek crossings and gentle elevation changes that appeal to casual golfers and beginners. Visitors can enjoy affordable green fees and a welcoming atmosphere that makes this an accessible option for travelers looking to include a round of golf in their Rochester itinerary.
9. Northern Hills Golf Course
CHALLENGING CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF
Northern Hills Golf Course presents serious golfers with a championship-caliber challenge framed by Rochester's rolling countryside. The course is known for its strategic design requiring thoughtful club selection and precise shot placement to navigate successfully. Its well-maintained greens, dramatic elevation changes, and natural hazards create a memorable and testing round that rewards skilled play.
10. Soldiers Field
HISTORIC MEMORIAL PARK
Soldiers Field serves as both a recreational complex and a poignant memorial to veterans in downtown Rochester. The park features multiple amenities including a golf course, swimming pool, tennis courts, and Veterans Memorial that honors those who served in America's armed forces. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities while appreciating the historical significance of this well-maintained urban green space that has been central to Rochester's community life for generations.
11. Children's Museum of Rochester
INTERACTIVE LEARNING FOR KIDS
The Children's Museum of Rochester provides a dynamic space where young minds can explore, create, and learn through hands-on exhibits tailored to various age groups. Children delight in interactive displays covering science, art, culture, and technology that encourage both educational development and imaginative play. The museum offers regular programming, special events, and themed areas that keep the experience fresh and engaging for repeat visitors.
12. Silver Lake
URBAN WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Silver Lake offers a tranquil natural setting within Rochester's city limits, famous for its resident flock of giant Canada geese that number in the thousands. Visitors can enjoy walking and biking paths that circle the lake, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor recreation. The park area includes picnic facilities, a swimming beach, and boat rentals that make it a versatile destination for families seeking outdoor activities.
13. Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo
NATIVE WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS
Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo, located near Rochester, showcases Minnesota's native wildlife in naturalistic habitats where visitors can observe animals that have been rescued or cannot survive in the wild. The facility houses over 30 species including bears, wolves, bison, and various birds of prey, all presented with educational information about their ecological roles and conservation status. The surrounding park offers camping, hiking trails, and picnic areas that complement the zoo experience with opportunities to enjoy Minnesota's natural landscape.
14. Phelps Mill County Park
HISTORIC FLOUR MILL
Phelps Mill County Park preserves a beautifully restored flour mill built in 1889 that stands as a testament to the region's agricultural heritage. Visitors can explore the historic structure with its original milling equipment and learn about the vital role these operations played in developing Minnesota's economy. The picturesque setting along the Otter Tail River includes picnic areas, fishing spots, and annual festivals that celebrate local history and culture.
15. Maplewood State Park
SCENIC HARDWOOD FOREST RESERVE
Maplewood State Park encompasses over 9,000 acres of pristine Minnesota landscape featuring hardwood forests, crystal lakes, and rolling hills that transform with spectacular color during autumn. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy more than 25 miles of hiking trails, swimming beaches, boat launches, and horseback riding paths throughout this diverse natural area. The park offers year-round recreational opportunities including camping, fishing, cross-country skiing, and wildlife observation that showcase the ecological richness of west-central Minnesota.