Hello & welcome to Owatonna!

As the mayor and a lifelong resident of Owatonna, I can assure you your time here will be filled with pleasant surprises! For many generations, decisions have been made to preserve natural areas while managing forwardlooking growth to provide the best of all worlds. Whether you’re into history, nature, shopping, arts and entertainment or taking advantage of any of our 35 parks, the athletic facilities or outdoor amenities, you will find Owatonna to be a charming destination. Friendly people, excellent cuisine and a variety of lodging accommodations makes our regional center an ideal spot for an extended vacation, a few days away or even just an afternoon. Be sure to check out Owatonna’s ‘living room’ in our newly renovated, vibrant downtown with walkable streets, outdoor furniture and other amenities. At the crossroads of Highway 14 & Interstate 35 and nestled along the Straight River, our hidden gem of a community is less than an hour from Minneapolis, Rochester & Mankato. We look forward to your visit and hope you enjoy exploring Owatonna!

Mayor Thomas Kuntz

Steele County Courthouse

507-656-7012 | 111 E Main Street

The classical Romanesque Revival style courthouse was designed by T.D. Allen of Minneapolis and built by Leck and McLeod. Built of Austin red brick set with red mortar, and trimmed with Lake Superior brown stone, the 115 by 86 foot courthouse rises three stories above a full basement. Coupled arches supported by polished granite columns at both the north and south entrances. A large sculpture representing Mercy, Law, and Justice is set in a niche above the north entry.

Scan to watch a video

National Farmers’ Bank

800-423-6466 (Chamber) | 101 N Cedar Ave

The National Farmers’ Bank is one of the 25 National Historic Landmarks in Minnesota and added to the “11 Can’t Miss Stops On A Tour Of America’s Hidden Architecture Gems” because of its premiere example of Prairie School Architecture. The bank was designed in the early 1900s by Louis Sullivan who was known as the “father of the skyscraper” and Frank Lloyd Wright’s mentor. Being the first and most famous of Sullivan’s “jewel box” banks, it features gold leaf arches, stained glass windows, 2-ton electroliers, and murals depicting farm life in Steele County. Now an operating Wells Fargo, the bank is located across from Central Park in Historic Downtown. Self-guided and guided group tours.

Steele County History Center & Village of Yesteryear

507-451-1420 | 1700 Austin Road

SCHSMN.org

Experience what life was like in Steele County during the late 19th century at the Village of Yesteryear. The 19-structure village includes an 1868 mansion, historic schoolhouse, general store, log cabins and blacksmith shop. Stop in next door to the Steele County History Center to view rotating exhibits about the history of the region. In July, experience the Extravaganza - an afternoon of music, food, and historic demonstrations in the village. Self-guided and guided group tours.

Historic Downtown

800-423-6466 (Chamber)

Take a stroll through time walking on the streets of Historic Downtown Owatonna, a Nationally Registered Historic District. The buildings reflect three significant periods: the last quarter of the nineteenth century, first three decades of the twentieth century, and the period from 1930-1950s. The historic district contains a total of 75 contributing buildings and one contributing park. Use the Historic Walking Tour Brochure as a guide while you explore the unique architecture of downtown. Self-guided and guided group tours.

Orphanage Museum

507-774-7369 | 540 West Hills Circle orphanagemuseum.com

More than 10,000 orphaned, abandoned or abused children were sent to Owatonna between 1886 and 1945 to live at the Minnesota State Public School for dependent and neglected children. The historic campus is now called the West Hills Campus and is home to the Owatonna Arts Center, Little Theatre of Owatonna, City offices and the only known Orphanage Museum in the nation. The museum was founded by a former “State-Schooler” to remember the stories and glimpse into the lives of the children who have called “State School” their home. Explore the Museum, historic Cottage 11, the Children’s Cemetery and take an audio tour. Whether you schedule a guided group tour or choose a self-guided visit, you will find unforgettable history awaiting you.

Self-guided and guided group tours.

Veterans Memorial

The Owatonna Veterans Memorial honoring all the brave men and women who have served our nation in the U.S. Armed Forces is expected to be complete the summer of 2023, and will be located south of the Steele County History Center..

www.Owatonnaveteransmemorial.org

*Rendering of the memorial courtesy of Owatonna Granite and Monument

Owatonna Public Utilities

800-423-6466 (Chamber) | 208 Walnut Ave S Designed by Jacobson & Jacobson, the original municipal power plant was built in 1855 as a steam power plant. Additions to the building have kept the original style of brick with arched windows. The power plant was damaged in 2010 when the Straight River flooded. The 12 feet of water in the building’s basement rendered the generators inoperable. The Owatonna Public Utilities sought to repurpose the building to invest in the preservation and history of the building as it now functions as the headquarters of OPU. Schedule a tour of the building to see the history that remains. Artifacts from the building’s earlier days are integrated throughout the space and the original floor and equipment are incorporated in a way that recalls the historic structure.

Guided group tours.

Get Your Live Music Fix

Enjoy a Minnesota summer evening while you listen to live music at the 11@7 Concert Series on Thursdays in Central Park. Downtown Thursdays has music, food, art and shopping. The Music Space of Owatonna also hosts artists between tour stops in larger cities and venues. See their Facebook page for dates and times. Enjoy a fun family weekend downtown during Gem Days. Have a smokin’ good time sampling award-winning barbecue and listening to live blues bands at Smokin’ in Steele BBQ & Blues Festival. Watch the downtown come alive with music from competitive high school marching bands during the Harry Wenger Marching Band Festival. Check out the weekly schedules at Foremost Brewing Cooperative and Mineral Springs Brewery for live entertainment all year long. Warm up with hot beverages and Christmas carols by the carolers in Central Park after the Lighted Holiday Parade

Downtown murals

Check out the newest mural near Blast Soft Serve. The mural project was led by Owatonna Human Rights Commissions to create this mural to promote and reflect Owatonna’s rich cultural diversity. On your stroll through historic downtown, you’ll come across several street murals painted by local artists, depicting Owatonna’s history and heritage. There are five murals to find: the Little Red Schoolhouse Mural and Main Street Mural at Pocket Park, the Owatonna Gateway Mural on the side of Straight River Sports & Fitness, the Fire Hall Mural on historic Fireman’s Hall and Princess Owatonna Mural on the side of Owatonna Shoe. Also look for 10 “mini murals” of owls hidden throughout the 75 historic buildings in downtown.

Little Theatre of Owatonna

507-451-0764 | 5608 Dunnell Drive littletheatreofowatonna.org

The Little Theatre of Owatonna has been bringing culture and entertainment to the community for more than 50 years. Catch one of the 2023 performances Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?

Extravaganza

507-451-1420 1448, Austin Road SCHSMN.org

History comes to life in Owatonna during Steele County Historical Society’s Extravaganza at the Village of Yesteryear. You will experience what life was truly like in Minnesota during the late 19th century. Celebrate more than 30 years of historical reenactments and demonstrations, hands-on activities, food, music and more historically related family fun!

Owatonna Arts Center

507-451-0533 | 435 Garden View Lane oacarts.org

Since 1974, the Owatonna Arts Center has been a place to discover surprising insights on the world around you and new talents within you. Located in the historic West Hills Campus, the Center’s vitality is experienced in art classes offered for children and adults, exhibitions by regional artists and musical performances. View their calendar events for upcoming shows, classes, and more!

Check out the Owatonna Park Finder map app at Owatonna.gov to find the ideal spot for nearly any outdoor activity!

Conquer the Trails

Runners and cyclists will stay occupied for days on Owatonna’s 17+ multiuse miles of trails. They are also ideal for those who wish to stroll through scenic woodlands in search of wildlife. Kaplan’s Woods Parkway connects Morehouse Park Trail to Kaplan’s Woods where there are 225 acres for hiking and jogging and six miles of mountain bike trails. Connections between the 26th Street Trail, North Straight River Parkway (includes the Lange Woods and Ihlenfeld/Wildung trails), Buxton and Muckle trails wind along the Straight River through several beautiful city parks.

Experience the Water

See the heart of Owatonna from the seat of a kayak on the Straight River. This section of the designated State Water Trail is perfect for an early summer paddle. Pick up a trail guide at the Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism. Rent a canoe at Rice Lake State Park for an afternoon of exercise and relaxation. Spend the afternoon boating, fishing off the pier, lounging on the beach or paddling around Lake Kohlmier or Lake Chase. Rent a paddleboard, kayak or hydro bike at Lake Kohlmier. Cool off on a hot summer day at River Springs Water Park featuring two water slides, lazy river, lily pad walk, activity pool, zero depth entry or climbing wall. Grab a snack at the concession stand.

So Many Ways to R&R

Enjoy a round of disc golf with friends at the River Rock Disc Golf Course in Mineral Springs Park. Check out Morehouse Park, Manthey Park or Sid Kinyon Courts at Lincoln School for a friendly game of pickleball, bocce ball, ping pong or bean bags. The whole family can have fun playing mini-golf at Water’s Edge Miniature Golf Course.

Inclusive Playgrounds

Lake Kohlmier Beach and Manthey Park provide playgrounds that are accessible to all.

Life’s a Picnic

Grab a blanket and enjoy a picnic next to the Morehouse Bridge while watching the Straight River meander along.

Go Fish

If you’re looking to catch something, look no further than Steele County! Panfish, bass, even walleyes can be found in Lake Kohlmier, Lake Chase and Beaver Lake. Or, take on the challenge of fishing on the Straight River!

Hit the course

For the passionate or amateur golfer, Owatonna has two 18-hole courses. Brooktree Golf Course, a reasonablypriced, 18-hole championship par-71 public course is nestled along the banks of Maple Creek near the entrance of picturesque Mineral Springs Park. The natural beauty of the course, its surroundings and a welcoming patio with a fire pit truly makes it a great destination to play, relax and enjoy! Check out the Owatonna Country Club, an 18-hole private course with a “call for playing privileges” guest policy. For a 9-hole public par 3 course, play a round at the Havana Hills Golf Course.

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Scan to watch video of biking

For the camper

Roast your marshmallows under the stars and enjoy the great outdoors! Nestled along the Straight River is Riverview Campground, a Good Sam Park, which includes a heated swimming pool and a miniature golf course. Hope Oak Knoll Campground, also a Good Sam Park, is a quiet and shady place to camp. Relax with a game of horseshoes and Hope Oak Knolls game room. Enjoy seasonal camping under the tall hardwoods at Rice Lake State Park.

Bird Watching

The county offers excellent opportunities for bird watching with sightings of more than 200 species recorded. For information on bird watching, contact the MnDNR Area Wildlife Office at 507-455-5841.

RAD Zoo

507-455-1465 | Ultra Outlet Mall theradzoo.com

Come out and experience the RAD Zoo, home to a diverse collection of reptiles and amphibians. The RAD Zoo features more than 150 kinds of snakes, lizards, turtles, crocodilians and amphibians as well as some beautiful birds and fish. On weekend afternoons, watch the snake and crocodilian feedings. Pet a snake, tortoise or a small alligator or even hold one for a family photo for a small fee.

Cool off

Relax on the lazy river or join the kids on the climbing wall at the River Springs Water Park. Spend a sunny day building a sandcastle or cooling off in the swimming area at Lake Kohlmier.

Enrichment

Spend the day walking through the wildflowers with the kids at Rice Lake State Park. Take the kids to an outdoor lifestyle class at Cabela’s World’s Foremost Outfitter. While you’re there, check out the local fish aquarium and native and exotic animal display. Get hands-on learning at the Village of Yesteryear and discover rich history at the Orphanage Museum.

For The Movie Lover

Take in a movie and lounge in the heated recliners at Northwoods Cinema 10. Go to the movies on a Tuesday for just $5.50 (all day). Catch an outdoor movie during the summer months in Central Park downtown.

Sit & Sip

Stop in for a beverage or a meal at Tavern Nine at the Brooktree Golf Course. The natural beauty of the course, its scenic surroundings and the welcoming patio with fire pit makes it a great destination to relax with friends.

Outdoor Fun for All

The inclusive playground and Miracle Field at Manthey Park have been thoughtfully designed to provide a safe place for children of all abilities to play together. In this welcoming environment, exclusion barriers are removed providing a “sensory rich” experience accessible to all kids as well as kids at heart! Bring on the family competition with a game of bowling, some arcade games or laser tag at Sparetime Entertainment. Run around the playground at Fairgrounds Park, a local favorite.

Archery

Aim for a bullseye at the Archery Range at 711 North Elm Avenue. The ten shooting lanes at different distances and handicap accessible lanes are yet another way to challenge yourself and enjoy Owatonna’s outdoor amenities!

Tail Wagging Fun

Four-legged friends can socialize with others, off-leash, at the Dog Park at Lake Chase, 1915 State Avenue NW.

Skating

Bring along your hockey stick and puck for a game of hockey on the Morehouse Rinks. Rent skates at the Chalet, 350 School Street, and meet up with friends in the large warming house. There are skate helpers available to help beginners and food concessions. Enjoy bonfires Saturdays at 5:30 pm, bring s’mores or hotdogs.

Ski and Snowshoe

Winding trails flanked by woodlands and waterways beckon cross-country skiers and snowshoers looking for a winter wonderland adventure on the groomed trails from Morehouse Park to Kaplan’s Woods and Rice Lake State Park. Rent cross-country skis at the Morehouse Chalet or snowshoes at Rice Lake State Park.

Sledding

The West Hills Complex off State Avenue offers excellent hills for sledding, so grab your friends and family, bundle up and head out for hours of fun.

Snowmobiling

Have the need for speed? The Steele County Trail System includes 175 miles of groomed snowmobile trails connecting with five adjoining counties. Check out the trails at Rice Lake State Park for a winter ride in the woods.

Hok Skis

Take to the trails with a new twist to an old tradition. Hok Skiing, first introduced in Central Asia, brings the best of both cross-country skiing and snowshoeing to the winter playground of Southern Minnesota. Head out to Kaplan’s Woods or the Straight River to climb hills with ease and slide down with grace in groomed and ungroomed conditions. Put on your favorite winter boots and head down to Straight River Sports & Fitness and rent Hok Skis for the whole family!

Fat Biking

Why wait until the ground thaws to bike? Check out the seven miles of snowy mountain bike trails at Kaplan’s Woods. Contact Straight River Sports & Fitness for fat bike rentals and local guides.

Winter Events

Owatonna’s winter season warms hearts with fun events like Christmas in the Village, Lighted Holiday Parade and a Candlelight Event at Rice Lake State Park. Owatonna’s Winter Festival Bold & Cold and Winter Weekend Out offers a variety of indoor and outdoor events like a snow sculpture competition, ice skating to music and other fun activities.

Owatonna welcomes adult and youth athletic events. Boasting a wide variety, from field to court, our top-notch facilities are maintained collaboratively with pride by the schools, City Parks & Recreation Department and other organizations. Whether you are planning a tournament or just looking for a place to play, Owatonna offers participants more than just a game with exceptional lodging accommodations and engaging attractions.

Contact the Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, 800-423-6466, for facility details and contact information.

GYMNASIUMS

8 Full Sized Courts

5 Smaller

FOOTBALL

4 Full Size Fields

BASEBALL

5 Full Size Fields (ages 12-13)

2 Small Size Fields (ages 9-11)

SOCCER

7 Full Size Fields

5 Medium Fields (ages 9-11)

7 Small Fields (ages 5-8)

SOFTBALL FIELDS

12 Full Size Fields

2 Small Fields

RUNNING

1 Running Track

CROSS COUNTRY

8 Miles/Owatonna Parks

LACROSSE

1 Full

2 Youth SWIMMING

1 Olympic Pool

1 Outdoor Pool

1 Small Recreational Pool

BOWLING

1 18-Lane Bowling Center

TENNIS

14 Outdoor Tennis Courts

6 Indoor Tennis Courts

GOLF

1 9-Hole Golf Course

2 18-Hole Golf Courses

SKATING & HOCKEY

2 Outdoor Skating Complex

2 Indoor Hockey Arenas

INCLUSIVE FACILITIES

1 Inclusive Playground

1 Miracle League Field

OTHER FACILITIES

1 Outdoor Bike/Skate Park

18 Horseshoe Courts

6 Outdoor Pickleball Courts

1 Outdoor Water Park (1 Lazy River & 2 Waterslides)

10 Shooting Lane Archery Range

1 9-Hole Disc Golf

1 Bocce Ball Court

1 Outdoor Ping Pong Table

2 Outdoor Bean Bag Boards

Additional facilities include water recreation, trails, curling, fitness, grandstand, horse arena and sand volleyball courts.

2 Full Sized Baseball Fields

2 Full sized Softball Fields (1 artificial turf, one grass)

2 Multi-purpose artificial turf fields

3 Multi-purpose grass practice fields

1 Stadium Field

4 Full sized indoor courts

4 lane raised indoor walking track

(Outdoor fields will be available for use summer 2024; Indoor courts and walking track available fall of 2023)

Kaplan’s Woods Parkway: Top 10 MN

Fall Hikes

- Explore Minnesota

Surrounding Lake Kohlmier, the Kaplan’s Woods Recreation Area provides passive and active nature adventures. Its woodlands, river, lake, hiking trails, beach, boat access, fishing pier are an ideal way to spend a day.

The City Parks and Recreation Department is committed to maintaining excellent facilities and offering great experiences of many types in parks and on trails. Visit owatonna.gov and search for “Park Finder”.

The City of Owatonna maintains 860plus acres of parkland in 35 parks and 17-plus miles of trails with a variety of year ‘round outdoor activities that encourage people to connect with nature and one another. Owatonna has recreation and open space along its scenic waterways throughout the city.

Owatonna Parks

Central Park

In the heart of downtown Owatonna, Central Park and its bandshell is home to year ‘round events. Visit the park for live music, shop for locally grown food and handmade crafts at the farmers’ market or check out the iconic, historic architecture of the fountain.

Dartts Park

Dartts Park features tennis and basketball courts, a baseball field with spectator seating, utility field, horseshoes, two pavilions, a playground and more. This park offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and some friendly competition.

Owatonna’s picturesque parks are a perfect setting for a birthday party, wedding, reunion or other private event. Outdoor spaces for up to 192 guests; indoor spaces for up to 120 guests. The recently remodeled Clubhouse at Brooktree Golf Course has on-site catering. For information about reserving private event space, call Owatonna Parks and Recreation at 507-444-4321 or visit Owatonna.gov.

Jaycee Park

The perfect destination for a celebration or family get-together and nestled between Main and Rice Lake Streets, Jaycee Park features a picnic shelter, sand volleyball court, ballfields and play equipment.

Manthey Park

Manthey Park has hosted many gatherings and guests over the years. With two picnic shelters, tennis and basketball courts, softball and baseball fields, hiking trails, horseshoe pits, sand volleyball court and a large open grassy area, plan to spend some quality time at this park. Check out the innovative inclusive playground and Miracle Field.

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Mineral Springs Park

A charming must-see, Mineral Springs Park is home to the historic Princess Owatonna statue and her legend. Known for its fountain with healing mineral spring water, the park features a picnic shelter for family outings and a disc golf course.

Morehouse Park

Bask in the beauty of the Straight River at Morehouse Park. Featuring the Warsinski Chalet, a picnic shelter, play equipment, horseshoe pits, softball field and skate park. Drop in a fishing line or take a walk on the Kaplan’s Woods Parkway. Wintertime activities include skating, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Park Classifications

Regional:

Kaplan’s Woods Recreational Area

Community:

Central Park

Dartts Park

Fairgrounds Park

Manthey Park

Mineral Springs Park

Morehouse Park

Community Athletic Complexes:

Owatonna Soccer Complex at Lincoln

Daikin Soccer Complex

Neighborhood:

Brown Park

Jaycee Park

Maple Creek Park

Walter H. Gainey Park

Cashman Park (undeveloped)

Mini Parks:

Buecksler Park

Countyview Park

Crocus Park

Fremont Park

North Bluff Park

Willow Park

Special Use:

Sid Kinyon Courts

Archery Park

Brooktree Golf Course

Lake Chase Park

River Springs Water Park

West Hills Campus

Leo Rudolph Nature Reserve

Located along I-35, the Leo Rudolph Nature Reserve’s 58-plus acres showcase southern Minnesota’s native prairielands. Stroll through the rolling hills in search of wildlife or wildflowers.

Bold & Cold Winter Festival & Winter Weekend Out

January 26-28, 2024

Owatonna’s Bold & Cold Winter Festival and Winter Weekend Out activities are packed with indoor and outdoor events including a snow sculpture competition, log rolling, ice skating to music and other fun activities.

North American Farm and Power Show

March 16-18, 2023

Held at the Four Seasons in Owatonna for the past 20 years. This is a great show for farmers and families alike. tradexpos.com

KOWZ & KRUE Home & Recreation Show

March 24-26, 2023

Stop by the Four Seasons for all of your home and recreation needs! www.kowzfm.com

Farmers Market in Central Park

Saturdays May-October | 7am-12pm

Stop by Central Park every Saturday during the summer to pick up fresh vegetables, flowers and fun hand-crafted items from more than 80 vendors.

Corky’s Early Bird Softball Tournament

May 5-7, 2023

This slow-pitch softball tournament is one of the largest and most competitive men’s softball tournaments in the country. Held at the Steele County Fairgrounds Softball Complex and various fields throughout Owatonna and Faribault.

Rustic Mamas’ Market Summer Craft Show

May 6, 2023 | Early bird shopping

7:45-9AM

A weekend of new local makers, artisan and craft vendors inside the Four Seasons Building. Grab your bestie and spend the day shopping while enjoying an adult beverage and music. There will be food trucks on site.

11@7 Concert Series

Every Thursday June 1-August 10 Enjoy the wide variety of musical groups that perform throughout the summer on Thursdays at 7pm in Central Park.

Downtown Thursdays

June 1, July 6, August 3 and September 7

The night market is returning to historic Downtown Owatonna with music, food, shopping and art. owatonna.org

Smokin’ in Steele

June 2-3, 2023

A smokin’ good time! Kansas City Sanctioned BBQ Competition and Live Blues benefits the local chapter of the Special Olympics. smokininsteele.com

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Owatonna Motor Company Summer Series - Cutting Horse Competitions

May 19-21, June 9-11,

June 16-18 (NCHA Days)

Enjoy this modern equestrian competition, where a horse and rider is required to separate a single cow from a herd of cattle. The cutting horse has its roots in the historic cattle ranching industry, where horses with specialized cattle-handling skills were crucial for the work of the cowboy.

Juneteenth Celebration

June 16, 2023 allianceforgreaterequity.org

Celebrate African American history, culture and progress at Alliance for Greater Equity’s Juneteenth Celebration with live music, food and games.

Harry Wenger Marching Band Festival

June 17, 2023

This festival showcases competitive high school marching bands and pays homage to the vision and work of the founder of Wenger Co., Harry Wenger. www.owatonnabandfestival.com

Gem Days & Summer Weekend Out

July 20-23, 2023

Celebrate Owatonna’s natural features, beautiful buildings, history, legends, art, music, food and drink, local shopping, attractions and entertainment. The City commemorates National Parks & Recreation Month with free activities including a movie in the park, boat rentals at Lake Kohlmier and much more!

Extravaganza at the Village of Yesteryear

July 9, 2023

Enjoy a Sunday afternoon of music, food, historic demonstrations, antique tractor show and more during this family day of historically related fun. All buildings at the Village of Yesteryear will be open to visit. schsmn.org

Steele County Free Fair

August 15-20, 2023

Don’t miss Owatonna’s signature event – the largest county fair in the state of Minnesota! The fair offers a wide variety of events and attractions and admission is free!

Welcoming Week

September 8-17, 2023

Owatonna joins Welcoming America, a nonprofit organization leading a movement of inclusive communities becoming more prosperous by ensuring everyone belongs, in this annual celebration to bring together neighbors of all backgrounds to build strong connections and affirm the importance of creating welcoming and inclusive places in the community. A Welcome Walk and exhibitor fair, speakers and exhibits are part of this informative and engaging event.

Rustic Mama’s Fall Craft Show

September 16, 2023

Comfy, cozy, spicy, pretty, yummy….all things fall/winter can be found inside. There will be food trucks and, of course, hand-picked talent from area vendors. Grab that flannel, your crew and come say hey!

Oktoberfest Festivities

September & October

Celebrate with Mineral Springs Brewery as they kick off the season September 22 & 23 under the big-top tent with games, competitions, music and entertainment, food and specialty brews highlighting the traditions of the German Heritage. Dig out your lederhosen and dirndls, grab your steins and get ready for Oktoberfest! Foremost Brewing Cooperative continues Oktoberfest highlighting specialty brews and music into October.

Lighted Holiday Parade

November 30, 2023

A chance to bundle up and head to Owatonna’s renovated historic downtown for an illuminating experience showcasing dozens of floats. Starts at 6 pm and ends with Santa’s arrival, Owatonna High School Carolers, a tree-lighting and hot cider in Central Park.

Hometown Holiday Weekend

December 1-3, 2023

A weekend full of special events, music, plus plenty of opportunities to shop local. Stop by Christmas in the Village.

• Travel back in time on the self-guided Historic Walking Tour

• Grab a cold beverage at Tavern Nine at Brooktree Golf Course and meet up with friends on the patio

• Catch the fall colors at Kaplan’s Woods

• Discover local talent at the 11@7 Concert Series in Central Park

• Snap a selfie with the Princess Owatonna statue at Mineral Springs Park

• Lear n about the history of abandoned children from around the state with the audio tour at the Orphanage Museum

• Get out and take a jog or stroll on the trails

• Build a sandcastle at Lake Kohlmier beach

Rent a Scooter

Scooters are available to rent at various locations. Scooter operators must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid driver’s license. Go to How to Bird on the www.bird.co website for details on how to download the app and how to rent and how to operate a scooter.

• Bring the kids to Owatonna Public Library’s Play Spot in Children’s Services

• Be inspired by exhibits at the Owatonna Arts Center

• Wander through the National Far mers’ Bank and soak up its beauty

• Cruise over to the Eagles Club for Thursday Night Cruise-in classic car show

• Ice skate on the Straight River

• Go on a scavenger hunt with the family to find all of Owatonna’s downtown murals

• Walk through the lower level of the newly renovated Owatonna Public Utilities building

• Shop locally-made and sourced goods at one of Owatonna’s Farmers’ Markets

• Catch the daily Lumberjack Show at the Steele County Free Fair in August

• Go birding at a local park

• Check out a tradeshow at the Four Seasons Centre (rabbits, tractors, and more!)

• Take a picture of the beautiful Zamboni building downtown

• Hop on your mountain bike and explore the Kaplan’s Woods trails

• Walk on the hexagonal stones in front of the Bennett House (Dr. Bennett, founder of National Far mers’ Bank, was among the first in Owatonna to install cement sidewalks)

• Relax on a bench surrounded by historic buildings at the Village of Yesteryear

• Check out the exotic taxider my animals at Cabela’s

• Play a round of disc golf at Mineral Springs Park

• Snap a shot of the airplane display outside the Owatonna Degner Regional Airport

• Kayak the Straight River, a State Water Trail

• Relax by the fireplace with a magazine or newspaper in the Owatonna Public Library Reading Room

• Enjoy music, food, art and shopping on a summer evening at Downtown Thursdays and the 11@7 Concert in Central Park

• Relax under the stars and watch a movie in Central Park

• Brave the cold and watch floats decorated for the holiday season drive by in the Lighted Holiday Parade

• Drink legendary healing water at Mineral Springs Park