Things to do / Travel Guide
Address:Red Wing, Minnesota
Our Tourist Attractions Expert Says:
Red Wing, Minnesota is a charming town which combines modernity with the old-fashioned ambiance of the Victorian era. In Red Wing, you will find plenty to do both outdoors and indoors, and you will enjoy dining and lodging par excellence.
Red Wing was originally settled in the 1850's by farmers who came to the area to harvest wheat in the town's lush fields. With the arrival of the railroad, the town became more industrial and less agricultural, and immigrants from all over Europe began to set up skilled trade shops there. Over time, the area expanded and modernized, while at the same time holding close to its traditional roots, thus making it the old-fashioned yet modern town it is today.
During the day, there are many historical sites and museums to visit. The Goodhue County Historical Society offers exhibits and programs, and the Red Wing Collectors Society Museum offers an interesting display on pottery. At the Red Wing Stoneware Company, you can watch the production of the company's stoneware, and take a factory tour. At the Red Wing Arts Association and Gallery, you will see local exhibits—check their schedule for great events and festivals. Finally, check out a performance at the historical Sheldon Theater, which also offers public tours and a multi-media presentation on Red Wing's history.
The great outdoors of Red Wing is a great place for hiking, golfing, fishing, skiing, and more. You can hike or ski the 20 mile Cannon Valley Trail, go hunting with Hahn's Guide Service, and fish for walleye, sauger, bass, northern pike, and pan fish with fishing guide Ralph Diercks or other tour operators. There are also many places to golf, including Gopher Hills Golf Course, Hidden Greens, The Jewel Golf Club, and Mississippi National Gold Links. Make a day of it out on the green!
The independent stores in Red Wing's shopping centers give the town a charming feel. Be sure to visit the Historic Pottery District, where old homes have been converted into unique pottery shops. In Red Wing you will also find bookstores, antique stores, and lots of cute boutique shops.
Dining in Red Wing is a pleasurable experience anytime, with a wide variety of unique options. You can taste an authentic Italian meal, eat at a 1950's style diner, enjoy a Mexican feast, or indulge in a fancy dessert with wine. For breakfast bring an appetite to Bev's Café for a home cooked meal; then for lunch try the homemade tortillas and soup at Blue Moon, where you will also find live weekend entertainment, or get a healthy sandwich at Lily's Coffee House. For dinner you can try a wood grill entrée at McArthur's Wood Grill Restaurant and Pub, or enjoy a fancy dinner at Oar d'oeuvre Restaurant & Beverage Bar. For a drink in the evening, check out the wine selection at The Norton's, sip a large margarita at Fiesta Mexicana, or even taste a homemade wine at the Falconer Vineyard. The best place for Sunday brunch is Liberty's Restaurant and Lounge, Inc., or you can enjoy tea at A Tale of Two Sisters Tea Room and Gift Shoppe.
Red Wing is home to many independent and quaint hotels. We recommend the St James Hotel, with a comforting and quiet Victorian ambiance, or the Round Barn Farm Bed & Breakfast & Bread, with its famous blue-ribbon bread, feather beds, fireplaces, and a historic barn. For a more at-home feel, reserve a room at the Legacy Guesthouse or The Guesthouse Next Door. For lodging as well as entertainment, check into the Treasure Island Resort and Casino. Several other chain hotels and motels are also available, as well as camping options at Frontenac State Park or Hay Creek Valley Campground. All accommodations welcome kids, so bring the whole family for a visit to this historic, quaint town!
Red Wing is located in Minnesota on the Mississippi River, and can be found off of Minnesota State Highway 58 and US Highways 61 and 63. It is also accessible by Amtrak Train. It is only about 50 miles from St. Paul and 60 miles form Minneapolis. Who knew that such a great country-style vacation destination could be found so close to the city?