2021 Guide to Visiting & Living in Greater Mankato

2021 Guide to Visiting & Living in Greater

MANKATO

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4 Mankato's Newest Attraction 5 Mankato on the Move 6 Trails & Biking 7 Year-round Biking 8 Area Parks 9 Snow Adventure

10 River Adventure 11 Lakes, Pools & Ponds

12 Kids Activities 14 Event Calendar 16 Arts & Culture 18 History

20 We’ve Got Game 21 Wines & Brews

22 Night Life 23 Retail Therapy 24 City Center 26 Map

28 Living Here 34 36 43 45 46

Directories Where to Stay Where to Eat and Drink What to Do Getting Around Where to Worship

contents

WELCOME TO GREATER MANKATO

Thank you for picking up our visitor guide. If you are looking for an adventure, wellness event, a great family getaway or an invigorating cultural experience, you are looking into the right community. In Mankato, we are playing year-round, and we are proud to share what we have to offer with others.

You can find Mankato nestled in the scenic Minnesota River Valley just 75 minutes southwest of the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro. Our community offers experiences you would expect from a major metro and the charm you can get only from a close-knit community. Whether you are enjoying Mankato for a weekend or spending a lifetime in the area, you will feel your time here was well worth it.

Mankato is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy the area’s abundant recreation activities and wellness events. In addition to the scenic beauty of the Minnesota River, there are numerous lakes throughout the area. Greater Mankato has more than 60 parks and 50 miles of paved bike trails for walking, biking, running or skating. Our on- and off-road trail system is a magnet for biking enthusiasts. And our hills are great for skiing, biking and climbing.

You can escape to Mankato for an enriching cultural encounter. Our calendar is packed year-round because of a thriving arts community that offers headliner concerts, top-notch theater performances, live music and lively night entertainment. In addition, you can’t take a step in our City Center without noticing the fine arts from massive silo art to CityArt sculptures to poetry on the trail system.

Mankato has a rich history, including a significant role in the U.S.-Dakota Conflict, and serves as the backdrop for the popular Betsy-Tacy book series. Traditions have arisen from this history that bring visitors back to Mankato year after year.

We know a little retail therapy goes a long way, and we are happy to say Greater Mankato serves as a retail center, with hundreds of stores and restaurants, ranging from large national retailers to quaint local shops.

Add to these assets Greater Mankato’s convenient location, outstanding business development, community services, citizen commitment, premier health care and awardwinning school systems, and you’ve got the perfect community for visitors, residents and businesses to thrive.

Enjoy your time here!

Scan the code to watch Jenna and Micha’s adventurous Mankato experience!

Visitor Center hours Office Mon. – Fri. 8:00am-5:00pm Friday 8:00am – 3:00pm (June – August) Lobby Sun. – Sat. 8:00am – 9:00pm

Look for the MM icon next to attractions that offer a virtual tour on moremankato.com.

Located at 3 Civic Center Plaza, Suite 100 Mankato, MN 56001 editors: Anna Thill, Brittany Junck, Christina Sankey photographers: Aerial Imagery Media Mankato Mom’s Blog Sara Hughes – Cover Photo Minnesota State Athletics Askew View Photography – Paul Vogel Vince Niel: Vetter Stone Amphitheatre Roisen Granlund, Aussie Peppers Gustavus Sports Information Office B North Photography SPX Sports Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota SPX Sports on behalf of Bethany Lutheran College Jackson Forderer - The Free Press Media Wander the Map Copyright 2020 Visit Mankato

Anna Thill President Visit Mankato

For advertising rates or information, please call your sales rep at 507-344-6339 Published yearly by The Free Press, 418 South Second Street, Mankato, MN 56001 Direct inquiries to: Guide to Mankato, P.O. Box 3287, Mankato, MN 56002

For more information about Mankato, please contact:

Visit Mankato visitmankatomn.com visitors@greatermankato.com 800-657-4733

Mankato's Newest Attraction In 2018, international artist Guido van Helten was commissioned to complete a mural on the Ardent Mills silos in downtown Mankato by CityArt—a joint venture of Twin Rivers Council for the Arts and the City Center Partnership.

For almost a decade, CityArt had been strategizing about ways to incorporate artwork onto the 135-foot-tall silos and thanks to van Helten, a group of dedicated volunteers and generous donors, Silo Art is now telling a story of the history, diversity and inclusion of Greater Mankato. Painting began in October 2019 and was completed in June 2020.

An aggressive fundraising campaign secured over $300,000 from private donors and partners to make Silo Art a reality. van Helten visited Mankato in the fall of 2018 and returned in 2019 for another visit to get to know local residents and understand the history and narrative of the area prior to creating a design for this major public artwork. Throughout the creation and since completion, Silo Art has been featured on media outlets worldwide.

Artist Statement from Guido van Helten This artwork specifically addresses the existing diversity as a source of pride for the Mankato community. The concept was derived from a summary of experiences and discoveries in colour and culture as part of the Mahkato Powwow and Education Days in 2018 and 2019.

This mural brings together the shared ideals of community, diversity, inclusion, and participation. In consultation with various Native and nonNative community representatives, the artwork took shape and allows for an open interpretation as the viewer takes in all angles in one of the largest murals completed by the artist to date. The artwork is part of a growing trail of monumental murals painted by the artist throughout the Midwest including works in Faulkton, South Dakota and Fort Dodge, Iowa.

About Guido van Helten The artist Guido van Helten is an Australian born visual artist and photographer (1986). He is an internationally recognised artist creating contemporary street art throughout the world which is underpinned by his exploration of community and identity generated through photography and large-scale mural installations.

His work has developed out of his keen interests in travel, photography, architecture and learning about cultures in connection with their landscapes. These interests and his ability to work on large-scale projects have spurred commissions across the world throughout Europe, Scandanavia, the United States and Australia.

Guido painting

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2021 GUIDE TO VISITING & LIVING IN GREATER MANKATO

Photo by Sara Hughes

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Mankato on the Move

MANKATO NEVER STOPS MOVING, NO MATTER WHAT THE SEASON BRINGS.

If it’s fresh air and adventure you seek, you’ve found it. Our unique combination of local, county and state trails total more than 50 miles of paved trails, nestled in a scenic river valley for cyclists and runners. Energize yourself by cycling to a nearby winery, kayaking one of our many rivers, skiing the slopes of Mount Kato or rock climbing. You’ll find a plethora of invigorating adventures year-round in greater Mankato.

Bring your bicycles Greater Mankato has more than 50 miles of paved trails for a perfect family bike ride. Mankato features miles and miles of scenic, low-traffic, wide-shouldered country roads and mountain biking opportunities at the Kiwanis Mountain Bike Trail & Skills Park, Fort LeHillier Mountain bike trails and, for the more experienced rider, Mount Kato.MM Don’t let winter slow you down. Snow bikes or “fat bikes” are best experienced along packed trails. Try it yourself at Seven Mile Creek Park, Kiwanis Mountain Bike Trail & Skills Park, Fort LeHillier or Indian Lake Conservation Area. Hitch yourself to a local group ride for camaraderie and exploration.

Roll down the river Take a guided trip through the Blue Earth County river valley with a local outdoor adventure outfitter or go it alone. Our area offers river rides on either the Blue Earth or Minnesota Rivers for all skill levels, from beginners to thrill seekers. Along the way, keep a look out for wildlife or throw in a line and try your best to catch a fish. Don’t forget to pack a lunch and stop at a sand bar to relax or explore the river shore.

Conquer the slopes Ski, snowboard or tube at Mount Kato. Whether you are experienced or need a lesson or two, Mount Kato has everything you need for a fun day with the family including 19 trails, eight chair lifts, four terrain parks, a two-level chalet with food service, The Lift Bar and a full-service rental shop. You can always bring your bike and experience the mountain biking trails.

Get your climb on Test your climbing skills at the Rock Climbing Walls located on the campus of Minnesota State University, Mankato.MM MSU, Mankato offers both indoor and outdoor walls to climb and equipment to rent as well. These climbing walls simulate outdoor rock climbing with various levels of difficulty.

Take on a trail Whether you’re training to run a marathon or out for a casual stroll, Greater Mankato’s trail system offers a spectacular scenic view of the areas that may not always be explored, especially if you stick to the road. Trail users will follow streams and cross upland and wetland areas, where you are sure to see all kinds of wildlife. Travel through our prairie land or hike our river valley bluffs for amazing views throughout all four seasons.

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trails & biking Mankato has more than 50 miles of paved trails in a scenic river valley waiting to be explored by foot or by bike. But there are also many miles of dirt trails perfect for a fatter tire.

Mankato continues to grow as a mountain biking destination through the work of local biking enthusiasts.

Walkers or runners will love the beauty of our trails. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, thanks to Mother Nature, but we also have the beauty of poetry along our trails. The Mankato Poetry Walk and Ride displays poetry signs in our numerous parks and along our miles and miles of recreational trails. Stop and read the poetry of our local citizens or listen to an audio version straight from the mouth of the poet.

For biking enthusiasts, Mankato features some of the best trails in the state and scenic roadways with wide shoulders and little traffic. Our trail system offers a spectacular view of areas that may not always be explored. Trail users will follow streams and cross upland and wetland areas, where one may see all kinds of wildlife. You never know what is around the next bend.

Mountain biking continues to grow in Greater Mankato through the dedication of groups like the Mankato Area Mountain Bikers that build sustainable, environmentally-friendly trails that make the most of natural terrain features. This group also cares for and maintains some of the mountain biking areas in Greater Mankato. There are currently five mountain biking areas to explore, so get ready to head out and explore all the different trails we have to offer!

Mountain Biking

Mankato offers five mountain biking trails to explore for experienced riders and biking newbies.

Ft. LeHillier Trail

Open mid-May through October, this 2.2-mile public-use mountain bike trail is located at the intersection of Highways 66 and 90 just south of Mount Kato.

Maintained by the Mankato High School Cycling Team, this trail is a great spot for the kids to try out mountain biking.

Indian Lake Conservation Area

Indian Lake Conservation Area is a 120-acre regional park that provides an outstanding recreational and environmental resource.

The park, located south of Mankato on Indian Lake Road, melds environmental and recreational amenities. It offers a multi-use trail system which circles Indian Lake and connects with other regional trails.

Kiwanis Mountain Bike Trail & Skills Park

Built and maintained by the Mankato Area Mountain Bikers club, the Kiwanis Mountain Bike Trail & Skills Park was named one of Minnesota’s “20 Popular Fat Bike Trails You’ve Never Heard Of” by Singletracks, this park offers five miles of mountain biking fun in addition to a new skills park. Located just north of the Hwy 169 and Hwy 14 intersection north of Mankato, the park also offers dog park areas, a canoe/kayak area and an archery range.

Looking for loops?

Our Greater Mankato Biking and Hiking Guide offers a bike map for beginning bikers to experienced riders on both trails and country roads.

Download your guide today online at visitmankatomn.com, by scanning the QR code, or call 507-385-6660 to be mailed a map.

Mount KatoMM Bike/Hike Guide

Before the snow flies and after it melts again, Mount Kato turns its attention to mountain biking. Slightly more than seven miles of mountain bike trails are accessible during the non-winter months.

Seven Mile Creek Trail Mankato is proud to be designated a “bronze” Bike Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists, Washington D.C.

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2021 GUIDE TO VISITING & LIVING IN GREATER MANKATO

Seven Mile Park is a 628-acre county park located off Highway 169 between North Mankato and St. Peter. There are eight miles of multi-use trails with equestrian parking and a highway underpass. Several footbridges cross Seven Mile Creek.

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year - round biking & hiking

For biking enthusiasts, Mankato features some of the best trails in the state and scenic roadways with wide shoulders and little to moderate traffic.

Hiking enthusiasts will find a variety of experiences from easy to challenging hikes in nature or the middle of the city.

Minnesota River Trail

This trail connects the Sakatah and Minneopa Trails. It is a multi-use trail taking users along the Minnesota River, highlighting Mankato’s prime location on the river valley from Riverfront Park,MM through the City Center Mankato to Sibley ParkMM in West Mankato.

Rasmussen Woods

The wooded trails surrounding the Elks Nature Center at Rasmussen Woods are ideal for hikers, birdwatchers and anyone who loves nature. This features a 150-acre tract perfect or hiking and observing wildlife throughout the seasons. There are over 5 miles of hiking trails inclusive of meadows, wetlands, floating trails, cliffs and a park overlook. The woods are located just off Stoltzman Road. Sorry, these trails are not for biking.

Red Jacket Bike Trail

Take a 13-mile ride on an asphalt and crushed stone path from the YMCA in Mankato’s City Center all the way to awesome eats, delicious pie included, at the Rapidan Dam Store. The Red Jacket Trail includes a beautiful route through an open countryside, beside the Minnesota River, on railroad trestles which stand more than 80 feet high and 550 feet long, over several wooden bridges and under a landmark tunnel at the new southern bypass all the way to Rapidan.

Sakatah Singing Hills Trail

Follow 39 miles of abandoned railroad grade from Mankato (the trail begins on Lime Valley Road, just past the intersection of Riverfront Drive and Hwy. 14) to Faribault. The blacktopped trail meanders through rich farmland and small towns and follows several lakes, including Madison and Cannon, where there are swimming beaches. There are parks and six great cultural pit stops in communities every few miles. The trail, which intersects Sakatah State Park, is open for biking, hiking, in-line skating and cross-country skiing.

Seven Mile Creek Trails

Just seven miles north of Mankato on Hwy. 169, you’ll find over eight miles of multi-use trails that wind through a beautiful, deep forested valley with a spring-fed trout stream flowing down the middle. This is a great park for anyone looking for an exhilarating work out, a fun hike or ride or anyone looking to enjoy nature up close.

Find a Group Ride

Want to find a group of fellow biking enthusiasts for comradery and an easy way to explore the area? Both Nicollet Bike & Ski and Scheels have scheduled group rides that gather folks for fun rides based on different experiences from easy to challenging from mountain biking trails to road rides. Check out Group Rides on bikemankatomn.com.

Minnesota River Valley Scenic Byway

Explore the Minnesota River Valley on four wheels! This scenic byway takes you on a journey down the roads and the highways that follow the Minnesota River. Take in the stunning views of the river and bluffs, see wildlife and stop in and explore the river towns and cities. Check out mnrivervalley.com for more information about this scenic byway.

bike repair stations

In need of a quick repair while you’re out for a ride? Five state-of-the-art bike repair stations are located at opportune spots on Mankato’s multiple trail systems. A variety of handy tools, including an air pump, wrenches, screwdrivers and more, are featured on the station. Locate the Mankato-owned stations by visiting visitmankatomn.com/mankato/explore/biking.

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Watch Brandon’s biking adventure in Mankato

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area parks

AREA PARKS ARE ATTRACTIONS FOR THE ACTIVE AND ADVENTUROUS. As a community that provides opportunities to be active and adventurous year-round, we are proud to point out that many local parks are attractions in of themselves.

Fallenstein PlaygroundMM

Fallenstein Playground provides children of all abilities the opportunity to play. Fallenstein provides an environment where children, families, and our community can come together and grow by providing everyone the opportunity to not only access the play structures, but also engage with the structures.

Land of Memories Park

This park features trails that wind along the Blue Earth and Minnesota Rivers and through the woods. This park is also a destination for disc golfers and wide-open spaces for all kinds of activities and events. Campers can find access to the river as well as rustic, relaxing camping throughout 100 acres of beautiful scenery surrounding 47 camping sites for both tents and recreational vehicles.

Minneopa State ParkMM

You could spend hours watching the waterfalls, but you can also hike along the trails that encircle the falls, watch the birds, visit Seppman Mill, an abandoned windmill, or camp in one of the picturesque sites. A herd of 30 bison roam the enclosed 331 acres of the park. The herd is unique, having high-quality genetics descending from the type of bison Lewis and Clark gazed upon in the 1830s. Visitors can drive through the park to catch a glimpse of these beautiful giants.

Red Jacket Valley ParkMM

Formerly known as the Guaranteed Sand and Gravel Pit, the Red Jacket Valley Park is a scenic area designed for hiking, canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, and picnicking. There is a beach area on the south side of the pond and wooded walking trails throughout the park.

Across the road is access to the Red Jacket Trail and Red Jacket Trestle Bridge where you can access the Le Sueur River. The park is located 2.5 miles southwest of Mankato city limits along Old Hwy 66 (CSAH 1). The pond contains sunfish, crappies, perch, and northerns for some fun fishing.

Riverfront ParkMM

Riverfront Park has been recognized as one of Minnesota’s best outdoor music venues. It plays host to a variety of events and festivals for people to enjoy. The grand Lawn, Vetter Stone amphitheater, canoe landing, trail head building, playground and public art are just some of the amenities to be enjoyed at the park. The Minnesota River Trail runs through the park and provides great views of the Minnesota River and the City Center.

Sibley ParkMM

Nestled between the Minnesota and Blue Earth Rivers, Sibley Park is one of the oldest parks in Greater Mankato, once featuring a horse racing track, regional zoo, museum and clay tennis courts. Now featuring an agricultural theme, the park has been recognized as having one of the coolest playgrounds in the state. A fitting petting zoo with farm animals goes along with that theme. Other park features include beautiful walking trails through the park and along the river, gorgeous flowers and stone gardens, and HealthBeat outdoor exercise equipment. In the winter, the park festively comes aglow with more than one million lights and dancing displays during the month-long Kiwanis Holiday Lights. Take a sled and delight in a large sledding hill for everyone to enjoy.

Spring Lake Park

North Mankato’s Spring Lake Park has all kinds of fun for families. For some water play, check out the duck pond or newly renovated Spring Lake Park swimming pool. There are also shelters, trails, playground equipment, sand volleyball courts and winter sledding hills.

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snow adventure

MANKATO NEVER GOES INTO WINTER HIBERNATION.

Outdoor winter sports in Mankato get you exploring great hills and trails on skis, snowshoes, snowmobiles and snow bikes.

Cross Country Skiing

Winter Adventure Video

Groomed pathways in an extensive trail system surrounding Mankato bring cross country skiers through Indian Lake Park, Williams Nature Center, Bray Park, Wildwood Conservation Area and Daly Park. Each location presents an exciting journey for a beginner or experienced cross country skier. Call 507-304-4025 or visit Blue Earth County’s website at co.blue-earth.mn.us.

Down-Hill Skiing

Down-hill skiers find that Mount KatoMM remains a hub for fast action and short lines. With 19 groomed trails and four terrain parks for skiing and snowboarding, you won’t get bored. The cozy ski lodge is great for recuperation and dining.

Hockey

Each winter, fans swarm indoors to cheer on their Minnesota State University, Mankato Men’s and Women’s Division I Hockey at the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center.MM During period intermissions watch the up-and-coming mini mites hockey players take the ice and partake in the games and sing-alongs with the crowd.

Ice Fishing

Our southern Minnesota lakes offer great ice fishing thanks to the quality fisheries in the area.

If you are a serious angler, this area is a hidden gem in the state. Get geared up and pick your spot for a great catch.

Ice Skating

Mankato has 11 parks with outdoor ice skating rinks. All Season’s Arena offers an indoor skating rink, with skate rentals. Skate for fun or compete in a game of hockey.

Sledding

Grab a sled or tube and head to the legendary Sibley ParkMM or Spring Lake Park hill for downhill sledding. Don’t have a tube? No problem. Downhill tubing action at Mount Kato provide large tubes for a smoother ride with just as much thrill.

Snowbiking

Snowbikes or “fat bikes” are best experienced along packed trails. Try it yourself at Seven Mile Creek Park, Kiwanis Mountain Bike Trail & Skills Park, which is consistently groomed throughout winter, Ft. LeHillier Trail or Indian Lake Conservation Area.

Snowmobiling

There are 160 miles of trails for snowmobilers in Blue Earth County. Snowmobilers should visit the Minnesota Department of Natural resources to get detailed maps of available snowmobile routes at dnr.state.mn.us/snowmobiling/index.html.

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing reveals a whole new experience in our parks or our trails during the winter.

This activity allows you to experience winter in all its wonder. Go it alone or book a tour with the local experts, Bent River Outfitter. Rent snowshoes from Bent River Outfitter, Nicollet Bike & Ski or Minnesota State University, MankatoMM Campus Recreation. Looking for a snowshoe and winery combo? Join Bent River Outfitter for a winter tour around the scenic landscapes home to either of our unique wineries, Morgan Creek Vineyards or Chankaska Creek Ranch and Winery. After exploring the snow-covered vineyards, enjoy the warmth of a cozy atmosphere and taste of select cheeses and local vino.

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river adventure

MANKATO’S RIVER SYSTEMS OFFER ADVENTURE WITH A SPLASH.

Blue Earth County boasts more river shore than any other county in Minnesota. With so many rivers to travel, Mankato offers river adventures ranging from a leisurely float to a thrilling paddling experience.

Mankato’s two largest rivers are the Minnesota and Blue Earth Rivers. Both offer several mustsee stopping points. While traveling down the Minnesota River, be sure to stop at Sibley Park to visit the animals at the petting zoo or Riverfront Park to catch a live concert.

If you want more of a thrill ride, try the Blue Earth River. Between rapids, stop at Devils Gulch, a narrow, mossy-covered ravine along the river banks; Triple Falls, with three separate platforms and impressive height.; and don’t forget Big Moe, a glacier boulder in the middle of the river, for photos or a picnic.

Not equipped or need help finding these local gems along the river? Contact our local outfitter, Bent River Outfitter, to get a guided trip down the river.

River Access

Mankato has several spots to launch your kayak or canoe in the river, both in town and just outside of town. You can go for a short or long trip—whichever you prefer.

In-Town Access

Sibley ParkMM (Blue Earth and Minnesota Rivers access) Land of Memories Park (Blue Earth and Minnesota Rivers access) Kiwanis Mountain Bike Trail & Skills Park (Minnesota River access) Riverfront ParkMM (Minnesota River access)

Outside-of-Town Access

County Road 90 Bridge (Blue Earth River access) Rapidan Dam Park (Blue Earth River access) Red Jacket Park (Le Sueur River access) Seven Mile Creek Park (Minnesota River access) County Road 10 & 16 Bridge (Big Cobb and Le Sueur Rivers access)

Waterfalls

If you love waterfalls, you are in luck with our area featuring two of the best waterfalls in the state. The word Minneopa means water falling twice in the Dakota Indian language, which is perfect considering the incredible double waterfall that can be found at Minneopa State Park with trails to hike along the bluffs or down to the bottom of the waterfall.

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lakes, pools & ponds SWIM, FLOAT OR FISH. YOU HAVE OPTIONS!

Since Minnesota is known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” it’s no surprise that ample opportunities to enjoy the water await you in this beautiful state. Mankato, in particular, has a number of fantastic options for you to get outside and make waves. Whether you like canoeing, kayaking, boating or simply opting for a quick swim, Mankato’s stellar reputation with outdoor enthusiasts is well earned.

Lake Washington

Situated approximately 10 miles northeast of Mankato, Lake Washington is the largest lake in the area. Residents and visitors alike flock to this beautiful body of water for fishing and water sports of all kinds like paddle boarding and jet skiing. Fishermen, in particular, are drawn here because of the plentiful crappies, bass, northern pike and walleye. Camping and picnic spots are available as well.

Madison Lake

Less than 15 miles east of Mankato, Madison Lake is best known for fishing, swimming and boating. Bray Park features camping, a fishing dock, swim beaches, and kayak and paddle board rentals. Quaint shops and restaurants offer an enticing distraction away from the heat.

Lake Jefferson

Slightly smaller and farther northeast than Lake Washington and Madison Lake, Lake Jefferson offers water enthusiasts opportunities for swimming, boating, skiing and paddle boarding and other outdoor activities. The lake is known to anglers as a spot that is populated with a plentiful amount of bluegill, largemouth bass, northern pike and walleye.

Tourtellotte Pool

Open from June through August, Tourtellotte Pool offers a more traditional and inviting city swimming pool experience for your family. Featuring an Olympic-sized pool, with both a diving well and heated wading pool, you can take advantage of the general and lap swim times as well as family nights for a small fee. The facility is outdoors, staffed by lifeguards and has concessions available for purchase. If you’d like to hang around the pool a little longer or celebrate a birthday or special occasion, the pool has fully-equipped picnic shelters and other outdoor activities on-site.

Spring Lake Park

Spring Lake Park features the newest swimming pool with a lot of bells and whistles including a zip line, climbing wall and a shallow play area for the tots. But if swimming isn’t your thing, Spring Lake is also ideal for fishing, canoeing and kayaking. Additionally, two playgrounds, volleyball courts, ball fields, a walking trail and picnic shelters add endless hours of outdoor family fun.

Hiniker Pond

Located on the north side of town, Hiniker Pond is a natural retreat in Mankato, perfect for a day of family fishing and swimming. The 55-acre park is home to a 28-acre spring-fed pond with outstanding water quality. The sandy beach, open from 9 a.m. to sunset during the summer, draws a crowd looking for an outdoor respite and room to relax and spread out. You can fish from the handicapped-accessible pier, picnic with friends or family, or take a peaceful stroll through the trails. The pond also has a shelter that can be reserved for a dedicated space.

Red Jacket Valley Park

Located 2.5 miles southwest of Mankato city limits, the Red Jacket Valley Park is a scenic area designed for canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, hiking and picnicking. There is a beach area on the south side of the pond and wooded walking trails throughout the park. The pond contains sunfish, crappies, perch, and northerns for some fun fishing. Across the road is access to the Le Sueur River, Red Jacket Trail and Red Jacket Trestle Bridge.

Does fishing have you hooked?

Whether you are a seasoned sport fisherman looking to win a tournament or simply want a weekend fishing getaway with your kids, Mankato has what you are looking for. From shore, boat, kayak or canoe, you can cast your line into the area's many rivers, lakes and ponds. Here you’ll find some of the best fishing available in the upper Midwest.

Many of our lakes have very nice boat ramp accesses and very accessible public docks you can use for fishing.

There are a number of local hot spots in the area depending on what type of fish you are hoping to hook. Tom Davis, a home grown National Professional Walleye Tournament angler and all around local fishing expert, says, “Southern Minnesota has some of the best fishing opportunities found anywhere in our state. Walleye, bass, pike, and panfish, to blue gills, crappies and perch are all very abundant.

Because our southern Minnesota lakes are rich in nutrition, the fish grow very fast, and all make excellent table fare.”

For anglers visiting in spring, Seven Mile Creek between Mankato and St. Peter offers scenic Brown Trout fishing. The ponds at Paul’s Creek near St. Peter offer great rainbow trout fishing each spring when they are stocked in the thousands by the DNR, creating a truly unique fishing experience.

Our abundant river system offers excellent fishing from shore, canoe, kayak or small boats as well. Local bait and tackle shops can get you outfitted and provide up to date fishing reports help you snag a great catch of the day.

Check out A.J. Dahm's extended fishing blog with all the tips here.

On the Water Video 360 On the Water

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kids activities

WHO SAYS YOU HAVE TO GIVE UP ADVENTURE WHEN YOU HAVE A FAMILY?

We know traveling with a family is an adventure all its own. Load up the kids or grandkids and mountain bike at the Ft. LeHillier Trail, ski the slopes of Mount Kato,MM kayak the Minnesota River or dare to try a new cuisine. Here are some of our top suggestions for family fun. You can find more information on our website at visitmankatomn.com.

Take a Dip

Spring Lake Park in North Mankato offers a newly renovated swimming facility complete with multiple slides, volleyball net, basketball hoops, ropes course, rock climbing, a 40-foot zip line and more. Not far from Spring Lake Park is Hiniker Pond, a swimming park with a real sand beach and fishing pier. Tourtellotte Pool in Tourtellotte Park offers a swimming facility featuring an Olympic-sized pool with a separate diving well and a heated wading pool. Visit one of the many lakes in the Greater Mankato area for more fun in the water.

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Explore Public Art

Kids have been found to explore and get photos with some of the most interesting of the 30+ rotating outdoor sculptures displayed through the CityArt Sculpture Walking Tour.

Artists from around the world share their creations. Starting in May when the new sculptures are installed until April, pull out a ballot from a box along the route and get the kids to vote for their favorite. The People’s Choice Award will be purchased and remain permanently in the community. While walking the City Center, look for artistic traffic signal box murals through CityArt On the Go. Each are unique and delightful. Public art can really be seen all over the community and at your feet with the poetry walk in Old TownMM and at Riverfront Park.MM Pick up the CityArt Public Art Tour guide for more information.

Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota

MM

The Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota is a wonder-filled destination just waiting to be discovered. Imagine getting behind the be wheel of the 1917 Little Giant sod buster, exploring six unique forts suspended in the canopy of a 30-foot “tree,” or getting your handson experience in the two-story level maker area. With six indoor exhibits and 12,000 square feet of outdoor space, there really is something for everyone at this great museum for families.

Sibley ParkMM

Sibley Park is a favorite of many area families. Not only is the park beautifully landscaped with extensive gardens, it also offers endless recreational opportunities including multiple play areas, a petting zoo, picnicking areas and outdoor workout equipment. While at the park, people can also enjoy fishing on the river, taking a walk on the Minnesota River Trail or watching a local softball game. In the winter months, Sibley Park is also home to a legendary sledding hill, a synthetic ice skating rink and the Kiwanis Holiday Lights.MM

River Hills Mall

Kids are a big deal at River Hills Mall. Families can extend the indoor fun within the mall by taking in a movie at the Cinemark theater. Hop on the grand Carousel and get a ride from a horse, goat and even a cat. Kids love the Mayo Clinic Health System Children's Play Area. This fantastic playground for kids is hand-sculpted from soft foam creating a unique area specifically built for fun. Learning, playing and just plain having fun are encouraged with this colorful and unique medical-themed play area. The play pieces familiarize kids with what they'll see in a clinic. Children will love to crawl on the stethoscope, slide down the Band-Aid slide and more.

Burn Off Some Energy

Spend the day at the Mankato Family YMCA. Kids will love to run in the gyms, play in the Kid’s Gym and swim in the Taylor Family Aquatic Center and Pool. Let the school-age kids relax in the YMCA’s Pepsi Cube with foosball, a climbing wall, video games and more.

Be Wowed at the Wow! Zone

Your kids will find plenty to do at The Wow! Zone. We are talking bowling, laser tag, video games, pizza and more. There are also amenities for mom and dad to enjoy while the kids play. For more bowling opportunities, check out Victory Bowl or the lanes at Minnesota State University, Mankato.MM

Go for a Climb

There are plenty of trails to hike including those at Seven Mile Creek and Minneopa State Park. For a real climb, there is a great wall for that at Minnesota State University, Mankato. The largest rock wall in Southern Minnesota, the Indoor Climbing Center at MSU, Mankato provides an exhilarating experience for the entire family. The wall is cast from real rock located in Minnesota and Wisconsin and provides amazingly realistic texture, allowing climbers to use natural features and attached handholds to create incredibly versatile routes suitable for beginners to veteran climbers. Each climb can be a unique one on the way to the 35-foot pinnacle.

Bounce Around at Bounce Town

Head to Bounce Town to let your bouncers have fun while getting some exercise in the indoor inflatable play center. There are a variety of inflatables including bouncers, obstacle courses and slides. The little ones up to 40" will have fun in Wee Town.

Catch Some Air at Chesley Skate Park

Whether you roll on four wheels or two, Chesley Skate Park offers outdoor and indoor spaces to ride. Try your hand at skateboarding, biking, inline skating and scooter riding in a supervised, safe and family-friendly environment. Chesley Skate Park is the place for youth to socialize with others who are just as enthusiastic about skating. Rental of helmets, pads and skateboards are available for your use.

Family Adventures

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an eventful calendar

GREAT EVENTS MAKE UP A FULL CALENDAR OF FUN ALL YEAR LONG!

Our community has a great line up of annual community events. We have listed them here so you can see a full list of what we traditionally have to offer. Please be sure to visit our website for specific details as they are expected to be fluid through 2021.

JANUARY-FEBRUARY-MARCH Mankato Craft Beer Expo

| January | The Annual Mankato Craft Beer Expo is hosted at the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center and and showcases the offerings of craft breweries here in Minnesota, as well as all over the United States.

SnowKato Days

| January | SnowKato Days is a 10-day winter festival packed with festivities featuring activities for all ages including a medallion hunt, prizes, learn to curl, ski and ice skate, a snow sculpture contest, sled bowling, hockey and more.

APRIL-MAY-JUNE Bookin’ On Belgrade

| May | Bookin’ On Belgrade takes place on Belgrade Ave. in the City Center North Mankato and is a nearly 5K Family Fun Run and Walk. Registrants get a t-shirt, grab bag, extra goodies and children get a free book.

Solstice

| June | Solstice is one of Mankato’s major summer charity events. The schedule is full of local and regional musicians, artists, crafts and food vendors. Bring coolers, sun shades, lawn chairs, bean bags and other lawn toys and enjoy the afternoon.

Anthony Ford Pond Hockey Classic

| January | In the state of hockey, there is no better experience than outdoors on a frozen lake in Minnesota. The Anthony Ford Pond Hockey Classic takes place at Spring Lake Park in North Mankato and is a tradition that will create memories of a lifetime.

Speechless Film Festival

| March | Speechless Film Festival is a twoday multimedia event that showcases local and international artists from a variety of film genres including documentary, animation, drama, experimental and more.

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2021 GUIDE TO VISITING & LIVING IN GREATER MANKATO

JULY-AUGUST-SEPTEMBER Red, Hot, Boom

| July | The area’s most spectacular 4th of July celebration. Riverfront Park opens at 5 p.m. with live entertainment, food and beverages.

Fireworks begin at 10 p.m. and are synced to music from Radio Mankato stations: Hot 96.7, Minnesota 93 and 94.1 KXLP Classic Rock.

Thunder of Drums

| July | The Thunder of Drums is a sight to be seen and heard! You will be blown off your bleacher by the fantastic drum corps competing in a show of soaring musical and visual artistry at Minnesota State University, Mankato campus. Net proceeds support the local Kiwanis youth programs and the Mankato ’77 Lancers Marching Band.

North Mankato Fun Days

| July | North Mankato Fun Days consists of four days of fun for people of all ages. Fun Days offers a variety of activities including a parade, kiddie parade, carnival, softball tournaments, live music and more.

Blues on Belgrade

| July | A great line up of popular Blues bands from all over perform on Belgrade Avenue in City Center North Mankato. Come rain or shine.

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OCTOBER-NOVEMBER-DECEMBER STOMP! New Ulm Morgan Creek Vineyards Annual Oktoberfest Grape Stomp

RibfestMM

| October | Harvest Festival with competitive grape stomping—an honorable salute to the past growing season! Take off your shoes and get ready to dance!

Traditional Morris Dancers and Satori Violet Belly Dancers perform on the winery grounds. Dancing, Stomping and Revelry throughout the afternoon.

| August | Ribbers from all over the country travel to Mankato’s Riverfront Park to compete and be crowned the best around at Mankato’s annual Ribfest. This four-day festival includes well-known musical guests performing every night and the tastiest ribs around. Come for the food, stay for the fun.

Mankato River Ramble

Indian Island Winery Annual Grape Stomp

History Fest

| September | Heats of stompers compete in groups of two. There are great prizes for the top teams. There are also be a costume contest for the best dressed group. Enjoy the live music. Do some shopping among all the vendors that will be set up. Admission is just $2 all day.

| October | This event embraces the best of both bicycling worlds — off-road paved trails and quiet country roads with four scenic routes and four fun rest stops that feature great live music, delicious treats, cold and hot beverages and refreshing fruit. Four distances to choose from: 12, 26, 42 or 50 miles.

| October | Step back in time at the annual History Fest at Jack McGowan’s Farm. You’ll find a variety of entertainers and activities, from reenactments to belly dancers and fire eaters. There are also plenty of hands-on activities for the kids including candle making, ziplining, giving carriage rides and finding dragon tears in the sandbox.

Mankato MarathonMM

| October 15-17, 2021 | Mankato Marathon is the Midwest’s boldest race, featuring a course through a beautiful countryside, trail system and river valley with a finish in the City Center. There’s a race for every runner— a full marathon, relay, half marathon, 10K, 5K and KidsK. Virtual options are also available.

Kiwanis Holiday LightsMM

Mahkato Annual Traditional Pow-Wow

| September | Learn about Native American culture and enjoy traditional arts and crafts, delicious foods, drumming, singing and dancing at the annual Mahkato Pow-Wow, or Wacipi, at Land of Memories Park. The event takes place to honor the 38 Dakota warriors who died in the largest mass execution in U.S. history and to signify the reconciliation between the Dakota and local settlers following the Dakota Conflict.

Oktoberfest, Bier on Belgrade

| September | Bier on Belgrade activities take place on Belgrade Avenue and include a ceremonial first beer with city officials, music, a brat eating contest, bean bag toss area and hammerslagger.

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| November 26 – December 31, 2021 | Walk or drive through a winter wonderland for free during the Kiwanis Holiday Lights in Mankato’s Sibley Park. More than one million LED lights illuminate the landscape and an animated and choreographed display. Enjoy the Mary Dotson Synthetic Skating Rink, live reindeer and visits with Santa.

Christmas at the Hubbard House

| December | Join in an annual tradition at the Historic R.D. Hubbard House with traditional decorations for the season and costumed characters that take you back to the turn of the century. Refreshments provided in the Carriage House.

Bells on Belgrade

| December | The sights and sounds of the holiday season come alive on Belgrade Ave in North Mankato.

Enjoy festive time with Santa and his elves, carolers from Minnesota State University, Mankato, the Mankato West Choir and other live music throughout the afternoon.

Mankato Marathon Kiwanis Holiday 360 Views Lights 360 Views

For information on any public events at any time, greatermankatoevents.com is where to go for what to do.

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arts & culture

Just a short drive from Minneapolis, Mankato is a thriving arts community with quality theater, music, dance and visual arts programs. Applaud a rousing theater production, peruse a gallery of full of works by popular local artists or reconnect under the stars at an outdoor concert.

CityArt Walking Sculpture Tour

See and enjoy art out in the open with CityArt in Mankato’s City Center. Enjoy the CityArt Walking Sculpture Tour with sculptures from artists around the world in mediums ranging from bronze to cast iron to reclaimed farm equipment. You can even vote for your favorite sculpture or participate in a scavenger hunt.

SiloArt

The newest and fastest growing attraction in the area is SiloArt in Old Town on the historic Ardent Mills silos. One of the largest canvases in the region completed by international artist, Guido van Helten, this mural tells a story of history, diversity and inclusion of Greater Mankato. It literally can’t be missed and leaves visitors and residents in awe of its sheer size and perfect picture like images.

CityArt On the Go

Discover art in unexpected places with CityArt On the Go as infrastructure becomes art! The traffic signal boxes in City Center Mankato have been transformed through murals by local artists, providing unexpected sights for pedestrians and drivers to enjoy.

CityArt Public Art Tour

Don’t miss the public art that may not be so obvious. Take the self-guided CityArt Public Art Tour featuring more than 40 unique pieces of permanent public art, as well as the WordWalk—a selection of poems stamped on the sidewalks and paths in Old TownMM and at Riverfront Park.MM

Mankato Poetry

The newest form of public art in Mankato is poetry posted on signs in our numerous parks and along our miles of recreational trails. The Mankato Poetry Walk and Ride offers a creative outlet for poets of all ages while encouraging citizens to get out and get active.

Museums

If you are interested in history, literature or just having fun, you’ll find Mankato’s museum to be worth a visit. The Blue Earth County Historical Society operates the History Center Museum, Research Center and gift shop as well as the Historic R.D. Hubbard House in Mankato. The Betsy-Tacy Houses bring the classic books of Maud Hart Lovelace to life as you to get a glimpse into the past. Be sure to visit the Children’s Museum of Southern MinnesotaMM where you’ll find the perfect combination of Southern Minnesota’s rich culture in a hands-on, interactive learning environment.

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2021 GUIDE TO VISITING & LIVING IN GREATER MANKATO

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Home to one of the Coolest Urban Spaces in America.

Thrilllist ranked City Center Mankato’s CityArt Walking Sculpture Tour as one of the 14 Coolest Urban Spaces in America on their 2015 list.

Arts & Culture

Theater, Theater, Theater

The Mankato area offers a variety of options for the theater lover. Minnesota State University, MankatoMM Theatre and Dance has several performances every year. More than 35,000 patrons witness, support and enjoy the department’s offerings each year, ranking it in the nation’s top one percent of college in theater attendance. Other area colleges including Bethany Lutheran College in Mankato and Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter have excellent theater programs. If you want a unique theater experience, The Merely Players Community Theatre brings art to the community through its theatrical performances year-round. The Merely Players also offer special performances at local establishments.

The Mankato Playhouse is Mankato’s newest theatre featuring high quality musical theater performances and Broadway Teen Workshops.

Better yet, this is a dinner theater offering delicious meals and drinks in a fun atmosphere.

Music & Dance

Enjoy musical and dance performances throughout the year in Mankato. Catch a performance of the Mankato Ballet or Dance Conservatory of Southern Minnesota. Experience the power of music at a concert by the Mankato Symphony Orchestra or Minnesota Valley Chorale.

Galleries

Mankato is a regional hub for art and culture. You will find art out in the open on our City Center streets and in a number of established galleries.

Take a moment to visit one of Mankato’s art galleries including the historic Carnegie Art Center, the 410 Project and Twin Rivers Council for the Arts.

Murals

Take a stroll along Riverfront drive, by Reconciliation Park, and you will find the Mni Mural (“mni” means “water” in the Dakota language) on a large section on the Flood Wall along the Minnesota River. The mural design is a natural river scene that also incorporates images of fish native to the Minnesota River. The mural helps draw attention to that 500 feet section of the wall stretching from the Depot to Reconciliation Park and creates awareness of its access to the trail system. The mural Kites adds abstract color and beauty to its surroundings. Patterns of bright, bold colors dance across the Riverfront Drive retaining wall. The 2018 INFUSE: Artists on Main Street program brought several new murals to the Old Town alleyways, including “To the Moon and Back,” “Hokusai Hardware,” and “All for One,” as well as the steel and glass work “Land of Memories.” Many businesses in the City Center of Mankato and North Mankato are adding new murals each year.

New art is added around town all the time. Check out our website for the latest, up-to-date information. visitmankatomn.com

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Mahkato Pow Wow

history Mankato was originally named “Mahkato,” meaning greenish-blue earth, by its early inhabitants, the Dakota.

Mankato is located at the confluence of the Minnesota and Blue Earth Rivers.

In 1880, Mankato was the fourth largest city in Minnesota with a population of 5,500. Today, more than 50,000 people call Mankato and North Mankato home. In 1852, Parsons K. Johnson and Henry Jackson staked claims along these banks and founded the town of Mankato along the banks of the Minnesota River. The city was established on land purchased in a treaty between the U.S. government and the Dakota; the breaking of this treaty by the government led to the U.S.-Dakota Conflict of 1862.

North Mankato, which sits just across the river, was established in 1898. The first bridge between North Mankato and Mankato was the Veteran’s memorial Bridge, an iron truss bridge constructed in 1879. The bridge represented an interdependence and partnership between the cities that continues. Today, many memorials and buildings exist to commemorate the diverse and important history that has shaped the Greater Mankato area.

Mankato and North Mankato have many historical attractions that are must-sees for visitors.

1852: Parsons King Johnson and Henry Jackson arrived by steamboat at the confluence of the Blue Earth and Minnesota Rivers to create the new town of Mankato.

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1862: U.S.-Dakota Conflict (August 17 – December 26, 1862).

Hundreds of white settlers and Dakota lost their lives.

In the end, 38 Dakota Warriors were tried and sentenced to death resulting in the nation’s largest mass execution in history.

1868: Mankato Normal School established and first classes were held in basement of the Methodist Episcopal Church by Professor George M. Gage. Building constructed in1869 on 5th Street (today known as MSU, Mankato).

2021 GUIDE TO VISITING & LIVING IN GREATER MANKATO

1879: Iron truss 1887: Sibley Park,MM the first city park, bridge was first was established. Over the years, the park bridge to cross has served as a destination for residents and the Minnesota visitors featuring a racetrack (1887-1915), River between a zoo (1907-1965), recreation facilities and Mankato and today’s Sibley Farm petting zoo and Kiwanis North Mankato.

Holiday Lights (2012-present).

Prior to this, river crossings were Photos and content provided by done by ferry.

Blue Earth County Historical Society visitmankatomn.com

Top Five Historical Tours Step back in time with Betsy-Tacy – Discover Deep Valley

Sitting quietly on top of Center Street Hill in Mankato, you’ll find the childhood home of Maud Hart Lovelace, beloved author of the Betsy-Tacy series of children’s books.

As you are visiting the many significant Betsy-Tacy sites on this tour, try to erase the view of modern advances and imagine a simpler time of the early 1900s, when horses and buggies filled the streets.

According to Maud Hart Lovelace, many of the characters in her books are based on real people. Their homes are located throughout the neighborhood. The Discover Deep Valley brochure, found online, lets you take a walking tour of the most significant landmarks mentioned in the Betsy-Tacy books. The Betsy-Tacy houses are open for tours as well.

Honor Mankato’s veterans – Veterans Memorial Tour

Hikers and bikers can honor the service of all veterans any day of the year by visiting the Greater Mankato area’s 14 memorial sites on the Trail for Heroes. This 12-mile scenic route winds through the two historic city centers and beautiful natural landscapes as it leads visitors to monuments that commemorate the sacrifices of veterans from the 1800s to the present day. The route uses public roads and trails that are easily accessible at most locations, if you prefer to reach the sites by vehicle.

Amenities along the way include parks with a variety of recreational opportunities and businesses with shopping, dining and other services.

Twenty-five insights into Mankato’s History – City Center History Walking Tour The History Walking Tour includes 25 historical sites in Mankato. The tour offers photos and brief descriptions of each site and a detailed map to help you find your way through Mankato’s fascinating history.

Take a drive – Minnesota River Valley National Scenic Byway

Explore the Minnesota River Valley in your own vehicle. This national scenic byway takes you on a journey down the roads and highways that follow the Minnesota River.

Take in the stunning views of the river and bluffs, see wildlife and stop to explore the river towns and cities. The Minnesota River Valley National Scenic Byway has many suggestions for historical places to visit in the Greater Mankato area. mnrivervalley.com

Take time to heal from a troubled past – The U.S.-Dakota Conflict of 1862 Self-Guided Tour

It has been more than 150 years since the U.S.-Dakota Conflict. Many unrecorded Dakota casualties and forced removals were reported, along with the death of at least 450 white settlers and soldiers.

In the present day, we try to understand the events leading up to the conflict along with the grim outcome: the simultaneous hanging of 38 Dakota on December 26, 1862. It was the largest mass execution in U.S. history. The U.S.-Dakota Conflict also was the largest attack on settlers in the history of the U.S. This self-guided tour, which can be found online, brings you to 33 sites of the U.S.-Dakota Conflict.

Each site offers a brief description of its significance.

Dakota 38 Movie Trailer

To find out more about these tours or to download a PDF of the brochures, go to visitmankatomn.com.

Reconciliation Park

Native American culture and heritage can be seen all around this park. Reconciliation Park is the site of the largest mass execution in U.S. history where 38 Dakota Indians were hanged by the government. This was the result of trials during the U.S. Dakota Conflict of 1862. One of the largest features of the park is a buffalo statue, which Tom Miller sculpted from a 67-ton block of local Kasota limestone; it is surrounded by native flowers and prairie grasses. The buffalo symbolizes the spiritual survival of the Dakota People and honors the Dakota heritage of this area. The park is a site to reflect, meditate and remember.

1966: Minnesota 1972: Dakota community 1905: Bill passed by State 1910: Rapidan 1937: Ski Haven return to Mankato after a Legislature designated 70 acres Dam constructed opened for downhill skiing Vikings held their first training camp century for the first Wacipi (pow of land around Minneopa Falls and generated first by Harvey Anderson. In in Mankato. wow) to “honor” the 38 Dakota as Minnesota’s third State Park. electrical power to 1977, it became known Mankato. as Mount Kato.MM Warriors executed in 1862.

“Minneopa” means “water falling twice.” Minneopa State 1923: Mankato’s first airport was 1946: Mankato Area Vocational-Technical ParkMM has grown over the located near today’s Minnesota State Institute approved as the first vocationalyears to include Seppman Mill University, Mankato.MM The airport technical institute in Minnesota. Today, this (1929) and the reintroduction moved to its current location in 1970. school is known as South Central College of bison (2015). mankatofreepress.com

2019:

10th Annual Mankato Marathon held more than 4100 runners.

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we've got game

YEAR-ROUND, GREATER MANKATO HAS PLENTY TO OFFER THE SPORTS ENTHUSIAST.

If it’s a sporting event you’re looking for, you can take your pick in Mankato. Mankato and the surrounding communities have three collegiate athletic programs including the Division I Hockey Men’s and Women’s Mavericks of Minnesota State University, Mankato. After the game, recap the highlights over some local brews in our vibrant City Center or kick back with some live music from our packed events calendar.

AmateurAthletics

Mankato offers many options for the sports lover whether you’re interested in spectating or competing. As annual hosts of the Minnesota State High School League’s girls State Softball Championships every year since 1994, we know how to do sports! Support a local youth or high school team, stop by one of the numerous tournaments we play host to throughout the year or cheer on the Mankato MoonDogs, a collegiate summer baseball team in the Northwoods League. With special events, fun promotions, a family friendly atmosphere and great baseball being played from late May through early August, a MoonDogs game is a great way to spend a beautiful summer evening.

Collegiatethletics

Watch outstanding college athletes who put MSU, Mankato Mavericks on the map each year. In the state of hockey, MSU’s Division 1 men’s hockey team brought home the WCHA Championship in 2018. In addition, as members of the Northern Sun Conference, the MSU Mavericks boast a full lineup of men’s and women’s NCAA Division 11 athletics. Many of their teams have placed in the top three giving them a ranking of 1st overall in the NSIC All-Sports Trophy Standings. In addition to hockey, the Mavericks of MSU, Mankato, members of the Northern Sun Conference, boast a full lineup of men’s and women’s NCAA Division II athletics including the 2017 National Champion women’s softball team. Mankato offers more than just the Mavs as sports fans can also catch a Bethany Lutheran College Vikings sporting event in Mankato or a Gusties game just down the road at Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter.

Professional Sportsetics

Mankato is no stranger to professional sports action. In summer 2019 professional women’s softball took the community by storm featuring the Aussie Peppers, the Olympic contending team from Australia.

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wines & brews

AFTER A DAY ON THE TRAILS, RELAX AT ONE OF OUR FOUR AREA WINERIES.

Each winery offers a unique experience and entertainment options from grape stomps to murder mystery parties, but all provide the escape and relaxation a person associates with a nice glass of wine. If only a brew will do for you, then check out our local breweries or unwind with a hometown brew at a local watering hole.

Chankaska Creek Ranch, Winery & Distillery

Come enjoy the beauty of Chankaska Creek Ranch, Winery & Distillery. Nestled into the lush rolling hills and fertile soil of the Southern Minnesota River Valley, Chankaska offers breathtaking views of 15 acres of meticulously tended vines, a rippling creek and gorgeous landscape. Take a stroll around the grounds with your favorite beverage, listen to live music on the patio or grab a spot by one of our 3 fireplaces! No matter the time of year, you will find relaxation and delicious hand-crafted wines and spirits.

Indian Island Winery

Indian Island Winery is a family-owned and operated business built on historic Native American grounds. Indian Island focuses on making wines that are 100 percent Minnesota grown and produced. The winery has a beautiful patio with campfires to enjoy as well as a large indoor space with a stage for weekly musical performances.

Morgan Creek Vineyards

Morgan Creek Vineyards’ eco-friendly underground winery provides perfect cellar temperature for wine production and creates an inviting atmosphere for a tasting room and gift shop for visitors.

The winery overlooks a magnificent oak tree surrounded by groves and vineyards. The winery offers seasonal performing arts and culinary events, weekly live music and appetizers.

Javens Family Vineyard and Winery

Javen’s Family Vineyard and Winery, the newest winery to Mankato, is one of the premier Minnesota farm wineries. It’s located on the banks of the Le Sueur River, just five miles southeast of Mankato. Javen’s offers a range of red and white wines, features a tasting room and an amazing space to socialize with family and friends while taking in the view of the grounds and vineyard.

Mankato Brewery

Experience some local flavor at the Mankato Brewery, the first production brewery in Mankato since 1976. The Mankato Brewery is focused on creating authentic beers that reflect the heritage of the region and its people. Tour the brewery and enjoy a sampling of the German-inspired brews. Check out its event calendar for festive events and great musical acts. Stop in the gift shop for your Mankato Brewery gear, and don’t forget to fill up your growler on the way out.

LocAle Brewing Company

LocAle Brewing Company is the brainchild of two microbiology graduates and over 12 years of award-winning homebrewing is a recipe for amazing beer! With an open east-west layout taproom, bright sunlight lights the taproom all day and gives you an amazing view of Downtown Mankato. LocAle’s goal is to produce exquisite small-batch craft beer with a connection to the landscape and history of southern Minnesota.

August Schell’s Brewing Company

Schell’s Brewing Co. is the second oldest family-owned brewing company in the country and the oldest industry in New Ulm, a 30-minute drive northwest on Highway 14 from Mankato. The brewery continues to be managed by August Schell’s descendants. The visitor center includes a gift shop and museum of brewing. Tours and tastings are available throughout the year.

Starkeller Brewery & Taproom

The Starkeller is overflowing with rich history from Schell’s Brewery with the focal point being the 1936 Cypress wood lagering tanks that were restored for the purpose of aging sour beer. When you come to the Starkeller for a beer, you might sit at the bar made of an old copper kettle or next to one of the wooden tanks where the next beers are quietly aging. It’s a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else. Located 30 minutes from Mankato in New Ulm. Wine & Brew Experiences

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nightlife

MANKATO IS A REGIONAL CENTER FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND NIGHTLIFE. After a day on the trails, be invigorated by a headliner act, take in a local band and brew in the City Center, relax at a local winery or pick an event from our packed year-round calendar.

After a day on the trails, be invigorated by a headliner act, take in a local band and brew in the City Center, relax at a local winery or pick an event from our packed year-round calendar.

Mankato’s entertainment district, which is in the heart of the City Center, is home to the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center,MM which has a full calendar with exciting events, concerts and shows. You can expect concerts with internationally-known artists like Elton John, KISS and Florida Georgia Line. The venue also hosts the Division I Minnesota State University, Mankato hockey team in the winter. The recent expansion of the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center includes a state-of-the-art performing arts center which now makes your experience even more enjoyable. Enjoy the open air in the summer when concerts are moved outdoors a few blocks away in the Vetter Stone Amphitheater at Riverfront Park.MM Within walking distance of the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center and Riverfront ParkMM are several bars and grills to start your evening off right. Dance the night away to a DJ or find a local live band. You can easily find a variety of live music shows somewhere in Mankato every week.

If you would rather kick back and watch the game, several local bars and pubs offer big flatscreen TVs and great food and drinks to share with friends while rooting for your favorite team.

Looking for more excitement? Try an evening with friends at the Wow! Zone, where you can bowl or play arcade games, laser tag or glow in the dark mini-golf.

Day or night, it’s always a cool experience with an escape room. Use observational and critical-thinking skills to explore the elements of an escape room and use them to the solve the puzzles that will allow you and your friends to escape—and to solve a mystery. The players have one hour to use the elements in the room to escape and win. Test your problem-solving skills at Kato Escape in Mankato.

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2021 GUIDE TO VISITING & LIVING IN GREATER MANKATO

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retail therapy

SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP! GET YOUR RETAIL FIX WITH LOCAL AND NATIONAL OPTIONS. We know a little retail therapy goes a long way and we are happy to say Greater Mankato serves as a retail center, with hundreds of stores, ranging from large national retailers to quaint local shops. From the River Hills Mall on the Hilltop to the charming little shops in the City Center, Greater Mankato has something to offer every shop-a-holic.

Shop Local

Spend your time exploring the local shops in Greater Mankato where you can find a variety of southern Minnesota’s delicious flavors, specialty items and hidden gems. If you are looking for a nostalgic shopping experience, visit our vibrant City Center particularly in Old Town along Riverfront Drive, Front Street and Belgrade Avenue. Mankato’s City Center offers a truly unique shopping experience. Shopping in this area includes quaint shops and boutiques that offer a distinctive blend of specialty products, local artisan wares and “just what you’re looking for” gifts.

You can also shop local at the outdoor Farmers Markets, which is open May to October up on the Hilltop Mankato and in North Mankato at South Central College on Mondays from June to October. Vendors’ goods are produced from within 40 miles of Mankato. Get everything you need from farm fresh produce, local raised meats, homemade goodies including bakery items, soaps, cards, furniture, clothing and much more.

Shop who you know

Hilltop Mankato has so many shopping opportunities, you won’t know where to start! River Hills Mall is the premier shopping destination in southern Minnesota. Home to more than 80 retailers we all know and love, along with many local and regional retailers and restaurants.

There is plenty to do for the whole family including an 8-screen movie theater with Luxury Loungers recliner seats, a children’s play area, and a turn-of-the-century carousel in the Carousel Café Food Court. They often host craft and home shows, as well as other events.

Hilltop Mankato expands beyond the mall. As Mankato has grown, so have the shopping corridors. Get up to the Hilltop and you will find several of the national chains as well as some Minnesota favorites.

Vintage and Bargain Shopping

The Mankato area is a thriving market for vintage, antique and thrift stores. Some artisans have already breathed new life into vintage items, while many other shops have gems waiting to be discovered and given a new home. Enjoy the hunt for a great bargain!

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doing things

downtown

In City Center Mankato, you’ll discover that unique experience you’re looking for. Whether it’s our vibrant local dining, specialty shopping or exciting entertainment that brings you to Mankato, you’re sure to enjoy an amazing experience set amongst great public art and surrounded by fun recreation opportunities.

City Center Entertainment District With hundreds of live music events and shows annually, dozens of food and drink establishments, great hotels, exciting college hockey, and ample parking in the 10-block, pedestrian friendly Entertainment District, you’ll soon discover that your new entertainment destination is City Center Mankato.

Add to your experience Stay the night and see our great public art in the light of day.

24

Parks and Recreation City Center Mankato has great outdoor recreation, including Sibley Park and Riverfront Parks.MM The 133-year-old Sibley Park is filled with ball fields, fishing, picnic areas, a petting zoo and an award-winning playground. Riverfront Park has one of the best outdoor music venues in the state, Vetter Stone Amphitheater. Both parks have access to the extensive biking and walking trails of our region.

Family Friendly Fun In the City Center, you are easily connected to family fun. Whether it’s discovering the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota,MM experiencing history at the Hubbard House, diving into children’s literature at the Betsy-Tacy Houses, taking a picture with the Godzilla sculpture or feeding the animals at Sibley Park Farm,MM your kids will enjoy their City Center adventure.

Add to your experience Stay at a City Center hotel to launch your next great biking adventure on the 39-mile Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail.

Add to your experience Rent a canoe and give the family a memory they won’t forget on our great river system.

2021 GUIDE TO VISITING & LIVING IN GREATER MANKATO

citycentermankato.com

Festival and Annual Events in the City Center

Annual festivities draw people to City Center Mankato again and again for food, music, art and family fun.

The Business on Belgrade association has transformed the main street of Lower North Mankato into a high-energy festival zone. In July, Blues on Belgrade brings a day of great tunes.

Bier on Belgrade (October) is Greater Mankato’s Oktoberfest celebration, while the kids get their day at Bells on Belgrade (December).

Live music is always a draw. RibFest at Vetter Stone Amphitheatre (August) is not just about amazing ribs – it’s also four days of top national touring acts! Minnesota bands perform in the community favorite Songs on the Lawn (June) and Alive After Five (August) outdoor concert series in Civic Center Plaza. The Old TownMM Art Fair (September) also features lots of local music, along with unique and compelling art in a relaxed outdoor atmosphere.

Holidays bring special celebrations. Mankato’s July 4th Red, Hot, Boom in Riverfront Park features music by the Mankato Symphony Orchestra and, of course, fireworks. Both the Betsy-Tacy houses and the R.D. Hubbard House offer views of Christmas past during December events.

The annual Kiwanis Holiday Lights display in Sibley Park runs from the day after Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve and is ranked as one of Minnesota’s top holiday lights experiences. o Complimenting the glow of Kiwanis Holiday Lights is the new Let It Glow, Kato! Window Display Contest for businesses in the City Center. The public gets to participate in the fun by voting for their favorite window display.

CityArt The CityArt program, a collaboration of the City Center Partnership and the Twin Rivers Council for the Arts, provides thrilling public art experiences for City Center residents and visitors. They include: CityArt Walking Sculpture Tour

Enjoy an exciting rotating exhibit of outdoor sculptures displayed year-round in the City Centers of Mankato and North Mankato. Artists from around the world display their sculptures, and from May to October, you can vote for your favorite.

The People’s Choice-winning sculpture is then purchased for permanent installation in the City Center. For a tour map, visit www.cityartmankato.com.

SiloArt

This awe inspiring mural wraps 135-foottall silos in Old Town. The lifelike art tells a story of the history, diversity and inclusion of Greater Mankato.

CityArt On the Go

CityArt on the Go is an exhibit of 20 traffic signal box murals. Pedestrians and drivers enjoy seeing something different about the traffic signal boxes in the City Center, as infrastructure is transformed into colorful art.

CityArt Public Art Tour

The CityArt Public Art Tour is a selfguided walking tour of over 40 unique pieces of art, including the People’s Choice Award winners from previous Walking Sculpture Tours and the new public art works installed in Old Town in 2018. Learn more and find a map at cityartmankato.com.

CivicManka Ce to nte r

CivicManka Ce to nte r

CivMank ic C ato ente r

City Center Shopping The open-air shopping in the City Center provides a unique shopping experience, with boutiques that offer a unique blend of specialty products and “just what you’re looking for” gifts. Experience the blend of local shops in an area rich in history and charm. Be sure to visit our art galleries to find one-of-a-kind works at affordable prices.

Add to your experience When the shopping is done, treat yourself to our vibrant dining and exciting nightlife.

Content provided by City Center Partnership

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2021 GUIDE TO VISITING & LIVING IN GREATER MANKATO

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27

greater livability

Greater Mankato exceeds at providing all the amenities you would expect from a major metro, but also warms your heart with the charm only found in a close-knit community.

Greater Mankato is an ideal place that you would be proud to call home. In addition to a strong economy, residents enjoy Greater Mankato's scenic setting, abundant activities, shopping, dining, affordable cost of living and low cost of doing business.

The Greater Mankato region is located in a "sweet spot" of southern Minnesota, with the core cities of Mankato and North Mankato surrounded by many other thriving towns like Saint Peter, Le Sueur, Lake Crystal, Madison Lake and Eagle Lake. We are also about an hour's drive from the Twin Cities including the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.

Our residents can enjoy their morning coffee at their home located in the city, on a farm or by a lake, and be to work in less than 15 minutes. After work, they can take advantage of the area's many activities and attractions.

28

ENTERTAINMENT & ACTIVITIES Activities abound in Greater Mankato. The area has many community sports leagues for players of all ages, as well as eight golf courses. Watching sports is also a Greater Mankato tradition, served up by the area's high schools and college teams, and each summer - the Mankato MoonDogs baseball team! The Riverfront Park Amphitheater is another popular summer destination, hosting concerts and festivals, including RibFest every August! Throughout the year, the Mankato Civic Center and Grand Hall, with 7,000 seats and additional meeting spaces, provides a venue not only for Minnesota State University, Mankato Division I hockey, but also concerts, shows and conventions. Smartasset.com has added Greater Mankato to their list of "TOP 1O" Hockey Towns in America!

2021 GUIDE TO VISITING & LIVING IN GREATER MANKATO

ARTS & CULTURE Greater Mankato boasts a thriving arts community, with five public art galleries, three dance companies, four community choruses, the symphony orchestra and a theatre group. In addition, area colleges offer outstanding, theater, music, dance, and visual and written arts programs.

While strolling around the City Center, art is all around you with the annual CityArt Walking Sculpture Tour. A new City Center art attraction is the “Largest Canvas in Minnesota” which refers to the Ardent Mills silo art, by Australian artist Guido Van Helten. This community project was a local effort eight years in the making, and came to fruition because of the support of 60 local donors to make the $250,000 silo art come to life! For this reason and more, Mankato has been declared the "artiest town in southern Minnesota."

greatermankato.com

GREATER MANKATO

>> AT A GLANCE Mankato - North Mankato

Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) Lee

Le Sueur Nicollet County Saint Peter

Madison Lake

North Mankato

MINNESOTA

Mankato Eagle Lake Lake Crystal

Blue Earth County

MSP/St. Paul

Greater Mankato (MSA)

MORE OPPORTUNITIES In Mankato, opportunity comes packaged in accessible, quality-of-life ways: dazzling arts and entertainment, year-round recreations, great outdoors, top-notch schools and promising career paths. It’s where “you” time outstrips drive time. In Mankato, opportunity not only lives – it knocks! Check out moremankato.com for 360° virtual tours of our vibrant community.

MORE FOR LESS: Residents tend to get more for their money in Greater Mankato with the average home price being less than other areas of the same size. While some might associate a low cost of living with an area in financial trouble, just the opposite is true of this region. Livability.com ranked the MankatoNorth Mankato MSA #1 in the category of “shorter work weeks AND heftier paychecks!” Greater Mankato sits in an economic sweet spot, with an ideal location and size that makes living here affordable.

Welcome to Greater Mankato!

Content provided by Greater Mankato Growth

CLIMATE

POPULATION

Average annual rainfall, national average is 37"

Mankato - North Mankato MSA

30" 193

Average number of sunny days annually FROM MORE INFORMATION

102,906 5.6M Minnesota

DISTANCE TO MAJOR CITIES NEARBY

GREATER MANKATO GROWTH Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development

Minneapolis - St. Paul: 79 miles Rochester: 84 miles Sioux Falls: 157 miles Des Moines: 209 miles Chicago: 432 miles

Phone: 507.385.6640 greatermankato.com

TIME ZONE Central

29

greater education

Greater Mankato has a strong and responsive education system. From pre-school to college and beyond, learning is lifelong in Greater Mankato.

The region’s K-12 schools are among the best in the nation, with innovative educators partnering with area businesses and organizations to ensure students are well-prepared to meet the needs of employers and as a result achieve success for themselves. Mankato’s schools rank among the top 17% in the nation. The community is comprised of five Colleges & Universities, one Trade School, 17 Public Schools and nine Charter & Parochial Schools. Mankato is fortunate to have a community that prides itself on education and five higher educational systems that draw people nationally and globally – making it a diverse culture.

Our Five Higher Educational Institutions Minnesota State University, MankatoMM is a comprehensive four-year university and the third largest higher education institution in Minnesota. MSU-M is comprised of 14,000 students including more than 1,300 international students from 97 different countries. The university offers more than 130 undergraduate programs, 90 graduate programs, including master’s, specialist and doctoral programs.

Bethany Lutheran College, Mankato is a private, residential, Christian, co-educational, liberal arts college owned and operated by the Evangelical Lutheran Synod (ELS). Bethany Lutheran College has nearly 700 students and offers 19 majors and 8 pre-professional programs.

South Central College, North Mankato and Faribault is a community and technical college serving more than 6,000 students. The college offers associate in art degrees in liberal arts and science that allows students to complete their first two years of a bachelor’s degree, and more than 50 career and professional majors.

Rasmussen College, Mankato s a is a private college specializing in business and professional careers with nearly 700 students. The college offers more than 50 programs in seven major areas of study both on campus and online.

Gustavus Adolphus College, Saint Peter is a nationally recognized, private, co-educational liberal arts college affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church (ELCA) and host to the famed Nobel Conference. Gustavus is comprised of nearly 2,300 students representing 43 states and 23 foreign countries. Gustavus offers 71 majors and 15 pre-professional programs.

30

2021 GUIDE TO VISITING & LIVING IN GREATER MANKATO

greatermankato.com

greater talent

Greater Mankato is a community that takes talent attraction and development very seriously.

Business and community leaders in Greater Mankato appreciate the incredible resource we have in the region: our people, our “talent”. With five higher education institutions within a 30-mile radius and more than 6,000 incoming students each year, we have a natural draw for talent.

An outgrowth of Minnesota State University, Mankato, is the Center of Innovation & Entrepreneurship (CIE) which is focused on the next generation of entrepreneurs, innovators and dynamic organizations using education, outreach and research both to students and the regional community. Located in the Old Town area of Mankato, the CIE is host to the monthly “1 Million Cups” program. And the community is growing in shared workspaces, collaborations and developing the region's innovation ecosystem.

Awards & Accolades SHORTER WORK WEEK/ HIGHER PAYCHECK: According to RewardExpert, Mankato was ranked #1 nationwide in employees getting bigger paychecks for shorter work weeks.

TALENT PIPELINE: With five higher education institutions, the region has a combined average annual enrollment of 26,000 and graduates 5,000 students each year DIVERSIFIED ECONOMY: Our economic strength and stability stem largely from our diversification.

The region is comprised of 33% primary economy, 57% professional/ service economy and 10% retail/ consumer economy.

LOW COST OF DOING BUSINESS: The cost of doing business is 15% below the national average. We are proud to have the 5th lowest cost of doing business in the upper Midwest.

TOP 10 HOCKEY TOWNS: Ranked 4th best hockey town in the U.S., a 2018 ranking by smartasset.com.

TOP 10 WATERFALLS: MinnesotaMonthly.com ranked the Minneopa State Park Waterfall at No. 9 of the Top 10 Waterfalls in Minnesota.

BEST PLACE FOR INTERSHIPS: GoodCall.com ranked Mankato No. 65 in a list of the Top 100 cities in the U.S. to land an internship.

BEST COLLEGES: Bethany Lutheran College ranked No. 14 and Minnesota State University, Mankato ranked No. 18 in Best Colleges and Universities in Minnesota by bestcolleges.com.

WEDDING VENUES: Chankaska Creek Winery ranked in the Top 10 2018 Best of the Weddings Reception Venues.

The Greater Mankato Young Professionals program was created in 2009 by Greater Mankato Growth to help retain and attract young professionals to the region. The program gives young professionals age 21 - 40 an opportunity to engage with one another while focusing on learning, socializing and community involvement.

The program enrollment has seen growth every year and now includes more than 200 members. Visit our website at greatermankato.com/young-professionals.

For nearly 40 years the Greater Mankato Leadership Institute has been the premier leadership development training program in Greater Mankato. This nine-month program consists of 1-2 full day sessions each month from September to May, usually on the third Wednesday of the month.

One session also includes an overnight in St. Paul. This is an opportunity to learn the leadership skills necessary to take your career and organization to the next level! Learn more at greatermankato.com/ leadership.

Content provided by Greater Mankato Growth

TOP 20 SAFEST CITIES: Safewise.com ranked North Mankato as the 19th safest city in Minnesota.

MINNESOTA’S MOST MEMORABLE MURALS: exploreminnesota.com named the “One for All” by artist Michael Cimino mural in Old Town Mankato on of the most memorable in Minnesota.

31

community profile

DEMOGRAPHICS DEMOGRAPHICS DEMOGRAPHICS

TRANSPORTATION TRANSPORTATION TRANSPORTATION

REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE

BICYCLE FRIENDLY BICYCLE FRIENDLY BICYCLE FRIENDLY

$173,400 $173,400 $173,400

BRONZE BRONZE BRONZE Level Bicycle Friendly Level Bicycle Friendly Level Bicycle Friendly

Median value of owner-occupied Median value owner-occupied Median value ofof owner-occupied housing units housing units housing units

41,037 41,037 17.5 Minutes 41,037 17.5 Minutes 17.5 Minutes COMMUTE COMMUTE COMMUTE

AGE AGE AGE Under 5 5.6% — 5.6% Under Under 5 5——5.6% - 17 — 14.9% - 517— —14.9% 14.9% 5 5- 17 18 24 — 19.1% - 24——19.1% 19.1% 1818- 24 25 - 44 — 24.5% - 44— —24.5% 24.5% 2525- 44 45 64 — 22.3% - 64——22.3% 22.3% 4545- 64 65 and over 13.5% andover over 13.5% 6565and 13.5%

RACE/ETHNICITY RACE/ETHNICITY RACE/ETHNICITY

White/Caucasian 92% White/Caucasian 92% White/Caucasian 92% Residents of Color ResidentsofofColor Color8% 8%8% Residents

The largest sector of residents The largest sector residents The largest sector ofof residents of color are Latino/Hispanic color are Latino/Hispanic ofof color are Latino/Hispanic followed

by Black/African followed Black/African followed byby Black/African American.

American.

American.

2018 ACS Census 2018 ACS Census 2018 ACS Census

26 Backgrounds 26 Backgrounds 26 Backgrounds Residents hail from more than Residents hailfrom from more than Residents hail more than 26 different racial and/or ethnic different racial and/or ethnic 2626different racial and/or ethnic backgrounds. backgrounds. backgrounds.

53 53 53

Different languages are spoken Different languages arespoken spoken Different languages are here. here. here.

Average commute to work Average commute work Average commute totowork

AIRPORT AIRPORT AIRPORT

Mankato Regional Airport Mankato Regional Airport Mankato Regional Airport

76 Miles 76 Miles 76 Miles

Number of housing units Number housing units Number ofof housing units

$1 ,327 $1 327 $1 ,,327

Median monthly owner costs, Median monthly owner costs, Median monthly owner costs, a mortgage with a mortgage with awith mortgage

Closest International Airport, Closest International Airport, Closest International Airport, MSP. There are four major MSP. There arefour fourmajor major MSP. There are airports within a1/2 3hour 1/2 hour airports within hour airports within a a3 31/2 drive drive drive

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

Greater Mankato Transit System Greater Mankato Transit System Greater Mankato Transit System Ruby Ride Ruby Ride Ruby Ride True Transit True Transit True Transit Uber Uber Uber LyftLyft Lyft

SOURCES SOURCES SOURCES

Age, Ethnicity, Real Estate: Source: Age, Ethnicity, Real Estate: Source: Age, Ethnicity, Real Estate: Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2018 American U.S. Census Bureau, 2018 American U.S. Census Bureau, 2018 American Community Survey Community Survey Community Survey Languages: Mankato Area Public Languages: Mankato Area Public Languages: Mankato Area Public Schools Schools Schools Race/Ethnicity: Greater Mankato Race/Ethnicity: Greater Mankato Race/Ethnicity: Greater Mankato Diversity Council Diversity Council Diversity Council

Owners Owners Owners

Renters Renters Renters

There are 38,220 occupied There are 38,220 occupied There are 38,220 occupied housing units inMankatothe Mankatohousing units the Mankatohousing units in in the North Mankato MSA. North Mankato MSA. North Mankato MSA. Approximately 25,066 (65.6%) Approximately 25,066 (65.6%) Approximately 25,066 (65.6%) are owner-occupied and 13,154 are owner-occupied and 13,154 are owner-occupied and 13,154 (34.4%) are occupied by renters.

(34.4%) are occupied renters.

(34.4%) are occupied byby renters.

2.42 2.42 2.42

Average household Average household sizesize Average household size Written, compiled and created Written, compiled and created Written, compiled and created byby by Greater Mankato Growth, 2019.

Greater Mankato Growth, 2019.

Greater Mankato Growth, 2019.

Forinformation more information on Greater Mankato more information Greater Mankato ForFor more onon Greater Mankato visit: greatermankato.com. visit: greatermankato.com. visit: greatermankato.com.

32

2021 GUIDE TO VISITING & LIVING IN GREATER MANKATO

greatermankato.com

economic profile

WORKFORCE WORKFORCE WORKFORCE

BUSINESSES BUSINESSES BUSINESSES

222 ,,644 ,644 644

Private Sector Businesses Private Sector Businesses Private Sector Businesses

TOP EMPLOYERS TOP EMPLOYERS TOP EMPLOYERS

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL EDUCATIONAL LEVEL EDUCATIONAL LEVEL Some High School 5.9%

Some High School 5.9% Some High School 5.9% High School 27.5% High School 27.5% High School 27.5% Some College 21.7% Some College 21.7% Some College 21.7% Associate Degree 12.6% Associate Degree 12.6% Associate Degree 12.6% Bachelor’s Degree 21.4% Bachelor’s Degree 21.4% Bachelor’s Degree Post-Graduate 10.9%21.4% Post-Graduate 10.9% Post-Graduate 10.9%

25 ,,000+ 25 ,000+ 25 000+

Enrolled students in our five Enrolled students five Enrolled students in in ourour five higher educational institutions higher educational institutions higher educational institutions

61,474 61,474 61,474 2.2% 2.2% 2.2% Total number employed Total number employed Total number employed Unemployment Rate Unemployment Rate Unemployment Rate

SOURCES

Taylor Companies, Mayo Taylor Companies, Mayo Taylor Companies, Clinic Health System,Mayo Clinic Health System, Clinic Health System, Minnesota State University, Minnesota State University, Minnesota State Mankato, MankatoUniversity, Clinic Mankato, Mankato Clinic Mankato, Mankato Clinic Mankato Area Public Mankato Area Public Mankato Area Public Schools, Cambria, MRCI Schools, Cambria, MRCI Schools, Cambria, MRCI WorkSource, Gustavus WorkSource, Gustavus WorkSource, Gustavus Adolphus College, Kato Adolphus College, Kato Adolphus College, Kato Engineering, Johnson Engineering, Johnson Engineering, Johnson

RETAIL, TOURISM & DINING RETAIL, TOURISM DINING RETAIL, TOURISM && DINING

$1 ..5B $1 .5B $1 5B $26.7M $26.7M $26.7M Annual Retail Sales Annual Retail Sales Annual Retail Sales

Lodging Sales

Lodging Lodging 2017 MN DeptSales of Sales Revenue 2017 Dept of Revenue 2017 MNMN Dept of Revenue

TRANSPORTATION ASSETS TRANSPORTATION ASSETS TRANSPORTATION ASSETS Mankato Regional Airport Mankato Regional Airport Mankato Regional Airport Direct access to U.S. Direct access U.S. Direct access to to U.S. Highways 169 and 14, Highways 169 and Highways 169 and State Highways 22 &14, 6014, State Highways & 60 State Highways 2222 & 60 with highway connections with highway highway connections towith Interstates 35 &connections 90 Interstates & 90 to to Interstates 3535 & 90 Access to two Class I rail Access to two Class I rail Access to two Class I rail lines lines lines

Angie’s Boomchickpop, Angie’s Boomchickpop, Angie’s Boomchickpop, CHS, Consolidated HOUSEHOLD INCOME CHS, Consolidated CHS, Consolidated Communications, MTU Onsite HOUSEHOLD INCOME HOUSEHOLD INCOME Communications, MTU Onsite Communications, MTU Onsite Energy, Coughlan Companies, Energy, Coughlan Companies, Energy, Coughlan Alltech, ADM, SCC, Companies, Wal-Mart Alltech, ADM, SCC, Wal-Mart Alltech, ADM, SCC, Wal-Mart

TAXES TAXES TAXES

Mankato & North Mankato Mankato & North Mankato Mankato & North Mankato .5% Food & Beverage Tax .5% Food & Beverage Tax .5% Food & Beverage Tax .5% City Sales & Use Tax .5% City Sales & Use Tax .5% City Sales & Use Tax .5% County Sales Tax .5% County Sales Tax .5% County Sales Tax 6.875% State Sales Tax 6.875% State Sales Tax 6.875% State Sales Tax

SOURCES SOURCES Educational Levels, Household Income: 2018 Census Bureau, ACS Educational Levels, Household Income: 2018 Educational Levels, Household Income: 2018 Total Employed, Unemployment: MN DEED Census Bureau, ACS Census Bureau, ACS LAUS, October 2018 data Total Employed, Unemployment: DEED Total Employed, Unemployment: MNMN DEED Number of Businesses: MNdata DEED QCEW, LAUS, October 2018 LAUS, October 2018 data Q2Number 2018 Number of Businesses: DEED QCEW, of Businesses: MNMN DEED QCEW, Top Q2 2018 Enrolled Students: Greater Q2Employers, 2018 Written, compilied and created by Mankato Growth Employers, Enrolled Students: Greater TopTop Employers, Enrolled Students: Greater Greater Mankato Growth, 2019.

Written, compilied created Written, compilied andand created by by Retail, Hotel, Recreation and Food Sales: Mankato Growth Mankato Growth Greater Mankato Growth, 2019.

Greater Mankato Growth, 2019.

MN Department of Recreation Revenue, 2017 Retail, Hotel, and Food Sales: Retail, Hotel, Recreation and Food Sales: Department of Revenue, 2017 MNMN Department of Revenue, 2017 For expanded information on Greater Mankato’s economy visit: greatermankato.com. expanded information on Greater ForFor expanded information on Greater Content provided byvisit: Greater Mankato Growth Mankato’s economy visit: greatermankato.com.

Mankato’s economy greatermankato.com.

$100,000+ 22.6% $100,000+ 22.6% $100,000+ 22.6% $50,000 - $99,999 33.0% $50,000 - $99,99924.0% 33.0% $50,000 - $99,999 33.0% $25,000 - $49,999 $25,000 $49,999 24.0% $25,000and - $49,999 24.0% $24,999 under 20.3% $24,999 and under 20.3% 20.3% $24,999 and under

33

HOTELS

Where to Stay

AmericInn by Wyndham Mankato Event Center 240 Stadium Road, Mankato 507-345-8011 wyndhamhotels.com/americinn Budget Host Inn 1255 Range Street, Mankato 507-388-1644 800-283-4678 budgethost.com Country Inn & Suites 1900 Premier Drive, Mankato 507-388-8555 800-830-5222 countryinns.com/mankatomn Courtyard by Marriott Hotel & Event Center 901 Raintree Road, Mankato 507-388-1234 888-236-2427 courtyardmankato.com Days Inn 1285 Range Street, Mankato 507-387-3332 800-329-7466 daysinn.com

Hilton Garden Inn 20 Civic Center Plaza, Mankato 507-344-1111 mankatodowntown.stayhgi.com Holiday Inn Express Hotels & Suites 2051 Adams Street, Mankato 507-388-1880 888-465-4326 hiexpress.com/mankatomn

Norwood Inn Mankato 1111 Range Street, North Mankato 507-625-9333 800-780-7234 bwmankato.com Quality Inn 131 Apache Place, Mankato 507-388-5107 800-228-5150

Mankato City Center Hotel 101 East Main Street, Mankato 507-345-1234 877-345-5577

River Hills Hotel 1000 Raintree Road, Mankato 507-388-8688 riverhillshotel.com

Mankato Fairfield Inn 141 Apache Place, Mankato 507-386-1220 800-228-2800 marriot.com/mktfi

Riverside Suites 111 West Lind Court, Mankato 507-345-8800

Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham 200 St. Andrews Drive, Mankato 507-388-2818 800-771-7171 microtelinn.com Motel 6 1731 Premier Drive, Mankato 507-345-6666 Motel6.com

Super 8 51578 U.S. Hwy. 169 North, Mankato 507-387-0600 800-454-3213 super8.com Viking JR. Motel 216 W. Martin Street, Saint Peter 507-931-3081 Vikingjrmotel.com n Greater Mankato Growth Member

A welcome stay along the way.

Make yourself at home: • Complimentary Hot Breakfast • Complimentary High-Speed Wi-Fi • Meeting Room • Catering • Pool and Whirlpool • Radisson Rewards Program

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Mankato Hotel and Conference Center, MN

BOOK NOW AT radissonhotels.com/countryinn © 2021 Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

34

2021 GUIDE TO VISITING & LIVING IN GREATER MANKATO

visitmankatomn.com

CAMPGROUNDS Bray Park & Campground 22214 Oriole Road, Madison Lake 507-243-3885 Daly Park & Campground 11056 571st Lane, Mapleton 507-524-3000

Minneopa State Park Campground 54497 Gadwell Road, Mankato 507-389-3910

Sawmill Campground 41392 520th Street, North Mankato 507-947-3735 Shady Oaks Campground 340 Fairgrounds Street, Garden City 507-546-3986 shadyoakscampground.org

Silver’s Resort 108 South 1st Street, Elysian 507-267-4694 Summer Breeze Resort 45872 Summer Breeze Lane, Cleveland 507-931-5992 Wise Stop Resort 23981 Blue Marina Road, Cleveland 507-931-1843

Where to Stay

Land of Memories Campground 100 Amos Owen Lane 507-387-8600

Sakatah Trail Campground 501 Cherry Avenue, Madison Lake 507-243-3886 sakatahcampground.com

RESORTS

Point Pleasant Campgrounds 400 Sheppard Circle, Madison Lake 507-243-3072

Beaver Dam Resort 46115 Beaver Dam Road, Cleveland 952-215-7636 beaverdamresort.com

Rapidan Park 54116 Glory Lane, Mankato 507-546-9997

Lakeview Resort 22175 624 Avenue, Madison Lake 507-362-4616

Reinbold Sportsmen Campground 40050 30th Street, Janesville 507-234-5440

Sakatah Trail Resort 24102 Greenland Road, Madison Lake 507-267-4000 sakatah.com

Reliable Service. Quality Reliable Living.

S Professional Professional Property Property Management Management We have what you’ve

beenWe lookinghave for. what you’v Call us for your next apartment Call or townhouse us for today. your next

135 West Lind Street Mankato, MN 56001 (507) 625-5573 lloydmanagementinc.com info@lloydmanagementinc.com

mankatofreepress.com

35

Where to Eat and Drink

American Restaurant 7 West Taphouse 507-779-7690 1521 Tullamore Street, Mankato 7westtaphouse.com/mankato Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar 507-216-8200 1900 Adams Street, Mankato applebees.com Baker's Square 507-345-4240 1861 Madison Avenue, Mankato bakerssquare.com Boulder Tap House 507-344-1643 291 St. Andrews Drive, Mankato bouldertaphouse.com/mankato-mn Buffalo Wild Wings 507-385-9464 301 St. Andrews Drive, Mankato buffalowildwings.com Buffalo Wings and Rings 507-779-7999 1861 Adams Street, Suite 400, Mankato buffalowingsandrings.com Charley's Philly Steaks 507-779-7079 River Hills Mall,1850 Adams Street Suite 608, Mankato charleys.com

Fraternal Order of Eagles Club #269 507-625-9701 708 North Riverfront Drive, Mankato mankatoeagles.com Grizzly’s Woodfire Grill & Steaks 507-385-1600 1700 Madison Avenue, Mankato grizzlysgrill.com/mankato-mn/mobile Happy Chef Restaurant 507-388-2953 2100 US-169, North Mankato Hooligan's 507-625-9904 P.O. Box 4003, 1400 Madison Avenue Suite 210, Mankato hooligansmankato.com Hy-Vee - Hilltop 507-625-9070 2010 Adams Street, Mankato hy-vee.com Hy-Vee - Downtown 507-625-1107 410 South Riverfront Drive, Mankato hy-vee.com Jonny B's 507-625-6276 1600 Warren Street, Mankato Mickey's Sports Bar & Grill - Victory Bowl 507-387-7991 203 South Victory Drive, Mankato

Charley's Restaurant 507-388-6845 920 Madison Avenue, Mankato charleysrestaurantmankato.com

Nolabelle Kitchen & Bar 507-720-0841 520 S. Front St. #500, Mankato Nolabellekitchen.com

Dickey's Barbecue Pit 507-625-4227 501 Holly Lane #150, Mankato dickeys.com

Noodles & Company 507-299-1882 1600 Warren Street, Suite 5, Mankato noodles.com

Number 4 American Bar & Kitchen 507-344-1444 124 East Walnut Street Suite 100, Mankato number4mankato.com Olives 507-386-1001 20 Civic Center Plaza, Mankato olivesmankato.com Panera Bread 507-387-7694 1901 Madison Avenue, Mankato panerabread.com Pappageorge Restaurant & Bar 507-387-8974 1028 North Riverfront Drive, Mankato pappageorge.net Pathstone Cafe & Catering 507-385-4379 718 Mound Avenue, Mankato pathstoneliving.org Perkins Restaurant & Bakery 507-385-1595 1790 Madison Avenue, Mankato perkinsrestaurants.com Perkins Restaurant & Bakery 507-345-5021 1123 Range Street, North Mankato perkinsrestaurants.com Rapidan Dam Store 507-546-9997 54116 Glory Lane, Mankato Red Lobster 507-208-7207 1890 East Madison Avenue, Mankato redlobster.com Tavern on the Avenue 507-345-3308 1120 Madison Avenue, Mankato thetavontheave.com

YOUR PERFECT EXPERIENCE Award Winning Meats | Jerky Sausages | Cheeses | Salads Wild Game Processing & Much More!

JUST 15 MINUTES FROM MANKATO!

319 Pine Street | Nicollet | 507.232.3438 Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am-5:30pm • Saturday 7:30am-4:30pm

www.schmidtsmeatmarket.com

9 years in a row!

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YOUR PERFECT EXPERIENCE 2021 GUIDE TO VISITING & LIVING Award IN GREATER MANKATO Winning Meats I Jerky I Sausages I Cheeses

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The Pita Pit 507-345-4444 530 South Front Street, Suite 210, Mankato pitapitusa.com Wagon Wheel Café 507-625-9604 609 S Front Street, Mankato Weggy's on Campus 507-720-6633 1600 Warren Street, Suite 13, Mankato weggysoncampus.com

Asian China Buffet 507-385-0858 1770 E Madison Avenue, Mankato China Max River Hills Mall 1850 Adams Street Mankato China Star 507-625-8073 1857 Madison Avenue, Mankato chinastarmankatomn.com Hunan Garden 507-625-8199 408 Belgrade Avenue, North Mankato Mongolian Grill - Authentic Stir Fry 507-388-4550 1876 Madison Avenue, Mankato anmongoliangrill.com New Great Wall 507-345-5758 1814 Commerce Drive, North Mankato newgreatwallnm.com

Panda Express 507-388-2308 1810 Madison Avenue, Mankato pandaexpress.com

Buffalo Wild Wings 507-385-9464 301 St. Andrews Drive, Mankato buffalowildwings.com

ShoGun Sushi and Hibachi 507-779-7088 1901 Madison Avenue Suite 315, Mankato shogunn.com

Buster's Sports Bar & Grill 507-389-8999 1325 Madison Avenue, Mankato bustersbar.com

Star Ginger Centennial Student Union, Mankato starginger.com

Circle Inn 507-625-9667 232 Belgrade Ave, North Mankato

Tokyo Sushi & Hibachi Inc. 507-388-3338 1829 Adams Street, Mankato tokyosushihibachimankato.com

Flask 507-720-0896 100 East Walnut Street, Mankato flaskmankato.com

Wakai’s Asian Fusion 507-720-6370 1600 Warren Street Suite 2, Mankato wakais.com

Hooligan's 507-625-9904 1400 Madison Avenue Suite 210, Mankato hooligansmankato.com

Yu's Chinese Cuisine 507-389-9886 1633 Monks Avenue Suite 120, Mankato

Jonny B's 507-625-6276 1600 Warren Street, Mankato

Bar & Grill

Mickey's Sports Bar & Grill - Victory Bowl 507-387-7991 203 South Victory Drive, Mankato

The 507 507-345-5070 526 South Front Street, Mankato

Mully's on Madison 507-388-1441 1030 E Madison Avenue, Mankato mullysonmadison.com

Atomic Star Tavern 507-720-0200 12 Civic Center Plaza #1675, Mankato theatomicstartavern.com

NaKato Bar & Grill 507-388-8999 253 Belgrade Avenue, North Mankato thenakato.com

Big Dog Sports Cafe 507-386-8463 1712 Commerce Drive, North Mankato Blue Bricks 507-386-1700 424 South Front Street, Mankato bluebricksmankato.com

Southern MN’s LARGEST Selection

Where to Eat and Drink

The Loose Moose Saloon & Conference Center 507-345-1446 119 South Front Street, Mankato theloosemoosesaloon.com

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MAKE GREAT MOMENTS

with over 55,000 Unique Items!

Locally Owned & Operated

HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 8am-10pm • Sunday 11am-6pm Easy access from Highways 14, 169 and 22 with ample parking for your RV or boat.

Voted Best of Mankato 9 Years in a Row! mankatofreepress.com

Mankato 201 Victory Dr. (507) 625-2420

North Mankato 1755 Commerce Dr. (507) 387-2634

St. Peter 100 N. Minnesota Ave. (507) 934-8964

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Where to Eat and Drink

Oleander Saloon 507-625-4285 701 N. Riverfront Dr, Mankato Oleander Saloon.com Pub 500 507-625-6500 500 South Front Street, Mankato pub500.com

Wow! Zone – Family Entertainment Center 507-625-2695 2030 Adams Street, Mankato wowzonefec.com

Coffee & Tea

Roadhouse 169 Bar & Grill 507-387-7511 1006 North River Drive, North Mankato

Caribou Coffee – River Hills Mall 507-345-1103 1850 Adams Street #3620, Mankato cariboucoffee.com

Rounders Sports Bar & Grill 507-388-7767 414 South Front Street, Mankato roundersbar.com

Caribou Coffee 507-550-3868 1841 Premier Drive, Mankato cariboucoffee.com

South Street Saloon 507-625-9795 515 S Front Street, Mankato

Caribou Coffee 507-345-8191 1680 Warren Street, Mankato cariboucoffee.com

Spinners Bar & Grill 507-625-9751 301 Belgrade Avenue, North Mankato spinnersbarandgrill.com The Landing On Madison 507-243-9898 803 Main Street, Madison Lake facebook.com/thelandingonmadison The Square Deal 507-625-5090 519 S Front Street, Mankato Tavern on the Avenue 507-345-3308 1120 Madison Avenue, Mankato thetavontheave.com

Coffee & Bagels Caribou Coffee & Einstein Bros. Bagels 507-345-3680 1580 Madison Ave, Mankato coffeeandbagels.com Curiosi-Tea House 507-317-5354 1745 Commerce Drive, North Mankato curiosi-teahouse.com Dunkin’ Donuts 507-720-6197 1701 Madison Avenue, Mankato dunkindonuts.com Fillin' Station Coffeehouse 507-344-0345 630 South Front, Mankato

Starbucks Coffee Company – Courtyard by Marriott 507-388-1234 901 Raintree Road, Mankato starbucks.com Starbucks Coffee Company – Hy-Vee 507-625-9070 2010 Adams St Mankato starbucks.com Starbucks Coffee Company – Target 507-625-1011 1850 Adams St Mankato starbucks.com Tandem Bagels 507-720-6533 200 East Walnut Street, Mankato tandembagels.com The Coffee Hag 507-387-5533 329 North Riverfront Drive, Mankato

Desserts 2 Pins Bakery 507-469-4850 237 Belgrade Avenue, North Mankato Berry Blendz – River Hills Mall 507-345-6764 1850 Adams Street, Suite 610, Mankato berryblendz.com Berry Blendz – University Square 507-345-8423 1600 Warren Street, Suite 12, Mankato berryblendz.com

Jazzman’s Café & Bakery Centennial Student Union, Mankato

Cold Stone Creamery - University Square 507-344-8152 1600 Warren Street, #4, Mankato coldstonecreamery.com

The Underground 507-388-8000 12 Civic Center Plaza, Suite 1B, Mankato

Neutral Groundz 507-720-0321 229 Belgrade Avenue, North Mankato neutralgroundz.com

Culver's Frozen Custard - North Mankato 507-345-1680 1680 Commerce Drive, North Mankato culvers.com

Ummies Bar & Grill 507-625-8277 530 South Front Street, Suite 200, Mankato ummiesmankato.com

River Rock Coffee Bar 507-720-0223 607 South Front Street, Mankato rrcoffee.com

Culver's Frozen Custard- Mankato 507-344-1554 1856 Madison Avenue, Mankato culvers.com

What’s Up Lounge 507-625-4285 701 N Riverfront Drive, Mankato whatsuplounge.com

Starbucks Coffee Company 507-625-8900 1872 Madison Avenue, Mankato starbucks.com

Dairy Queen Restaurant 507-625-6732 2001 Adams Street, Mankato dairyqueen.com

The Loose Moose Saloon & Conference Center 507-345-1446 119 South Front Street, Mankato theloosemoosesaloon.com

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2021 GUIDE TO VISITING & LIVING IN GREATER MANKATO

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Burger King 507-345-5516 1318 South Riverfront Drive, Mankato bk.com

Jersey Mike’s Subs 507-625-8454 1924 Adams Street, Mankato jerseymikes.com

Frozen Yogurt Creations 507- 625-3001 1901 Madison Ave # 450, Mankato frozenyogurtcreations.com

Burrito Wings, LLC 507-720-0421 503 S Front Street, Mankato burritowingsmn.com

Jersey Mike’s Subs 507-779-7200 510 S Riverfront Drive, Mankato jerseymikes.com

Insomnia Cookies 507-800-0139 1600 Warren Street, Mankato insomniacookies.com

Charley's Philly Steaks – River Hills Mall 507-779-7079 1850 Adams Street, Suite 608, Mankato

Jimmy John's 507-779-7557 511 Holly Lane, #130, Mankato jimmyjohns.com

Mom & Pop's 507-344-0629 629 North Riverfront Drive, Mankato momandpopsicecream.com

Chick-fil-A – Minnesota State University, Mankato 507- 389-2613 Centennial Student Union, Mankato chick-fil-a.com

Wooden Spoon 507-345-4114 515 North Riverfront Drive, Mankato mankatobakery.com

Culver's Frozen Custard - North Mankato 507-345-1680 1680 Commerce Drive, North Mankato culvers.com

Kentucky Fried Chicken 507-387-3611 1110 Madison Avenue, Mankato kfc.com

Culver's Frozen Custard- Mankato 507-344-1554 1856 Madison Avenue, Mankato culvers.com

Massad's Mediterranean Grille – River Hills Mall 507-387-7111 1850 Adams Street, Mankato massadsgrille.com

Indian India Palace 507-625-2300 1511 Madison Avenue, Mankato indiapalace.org

Italian Noodles & Company 507-299-1882 1600 Warren Street, Suite 5, Mankato noodles.com Olive Garden Italian Restaurant – River Hills Mall 507-345-7585 1880 Adams Street, Mankato olivegarden.com Pappageorge Restaurant & Bar 507-387-8974 1028 North Riverfront Drive, Mankato pappageorge.net

Fast Food Arby's - Madison Avenue 507-385-0535 1855 Madison Avenue, Mankato arbys.com Arby's - S. Riverfront Drive 507-344-0002 520 South Riverfront Drive, Mankato arbys.com

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Erbert & Gerbert's - Sandwich Shop 507-625-2121 1710 Commerce Drive, North Mankato erbertandgerberts.com Erbert & Gerbert's Sandwich Shop 507-385-1919 1780 Madison Avenue, Mankato erbertandgerberts.com Erbert & Gerbert's Sandwich Shop – Minnesota State University, Mankato Centennial Student Union, Mankato erbertandgerberts.com Five Guys Burgers and Fries 507-385-1848 1920 Adams Street, Mankato fiveguys.com Garbanzo Centennial Student Union, Mankato eatgarbanzo.com Hardee's 507-625-3114 1405 Madison Avenue, Mankato hardees.com Hardee's 507-779-7475 101 W Lind Ct, Mankato hardees.com

Where to Eat and Drink

Dairy Queen Store 507-388-6451 25 Stoltzman Road, Mankato dairyqueen.com

Jimmy John’s 507-388-4999 1600 Warren Street, Suite 16, Mankato jimmyjohns.com

McDonald's Restaurant 507-625-7559 1921 Adams Street, Mankato mcdonalds.com McDonald's Restaurant 507-345-3370 1411 Madison Avenue, Mankato mcdonalds.com McDonald's Restaurant 507-625-7199 150 West Lind Court, Mankato mcdonalds.com Nupa Mediterranean Cuisine 507-720-0877 2041 Blazing Star Drive, Mankato eatnupa.com Shawarmania Mediterranean Grill 507-779-7341 251 Bunting Ln #101, Mankato Subway - Campus 507-385-7821 1633 Monks Avenue, Suite 110, Mankato subway.com

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Where to Eat and Drink

Fine Dining

Subway - Wal-Mart 507-386-7821 1881 Madison Avenue, Mankato subway.com

Taco John's 507-386-8226 1040 Madison Avenue, Mankato tacojohns.com

Subway 507-625-7827 10 Sibley Parkway, Mankato subway.com

Taco John's 507-388-2836 2112 North Broad Court, Mankato tacojohns.com

Subway 507-386-7827 1102 N River Drive, North Mankato subway.com

Tandem Bagels 507-720-6533 200 East Walnut Street, Mankato tandembagels.com

Subway 507-388-7821 1750 Commerce Drive, North Mankato subway.com

The Hub Food Park 310-922-1031 512 N. Riverfront Drive, Mankato hubfoodpark.com

Taco Bell 507-345-6159 1819 Madison Avenue, Mankato tacobell.com

The Pita Pit 507-345-4444 530 South Front Street, Suite 210, Mankato pitapitusa.com

Taco John's 507-625-8226 1601 Lor Ray Drive, North Mankato tacojohns.com

Wendy's 507-625-1888 1545 Madison Avenue, Mankato wendys.com Wetzel's Pretzels – River Hills Mall 507-625-6317 1850 Adams Street, Mankato wetzels.com WYSIWYG Juice Co. 507-387-5651 527 South Front Street, Mankato wetzels.com Zanz Mexican Restaurant 507-388-4789 1041 Madison Avenue, Mankato zanzmexicanrestaurant.com

Charley's Restaurant 507-388-6845 920 Madison Avenue, Mankato charleysrestaurantmankato.com Number 4 American Bar & Kitchen 507-344-1444 124 East Walnut Street, Mankato number4mankato.com Olive Garden Italian Restaurant – River Hills Mall 507-345-7585 1880 Adams Street, Mankato olivegarden.com Olives 507-386-1001 20 Civic Center Plaza, Mankato olivesmankato.com Pappageorge Restaurant & Bar 507-387-8974 1028 North Riverfront Drive, Mankato pappageorge.net

Mexican Chipotle Mexican Grill 507-385-1883 1851 Madison Avenue, Mankato chipotle.com Chipotle Mexican Grill - University Square 507-388-1222 1600 Warren Street, Suite 1, Mankato chipotle.com La Terraza Mexican Grill and Bar 507-344-0607 1404 Madison Avenue, Mankato laterrazamankato.com

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CHANKASKAWINES.COM | 507-931-0089

ENJOY

e v o b A

RA N C H , W I N E RY & D I ST I L L E RY

OPEN YEAR-ROUND | WOOD-FIRED PIZZAS | LIVE ENTERTAINMENT | SPIRITS

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2021 GUIDE TO VISITING & LIVING IN GREATER MANKATO

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Little Caesars 507-387-6000 1150 South Riverfront Drive, Mankato littlecaesars.com

Zanz Mexican Restaurant 507-388-4789 1041 Madison Avenue, Mankato zanzmexicanrestaurant.com

Pagliai's Pizza 507-345-6080 524 South Front Street, Mankato pagliaismankato.com

Pizza 1000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizza 507-720-0956 1351 Madison Ave, Suite 1, Mankato Dino's Gourmet Pizzeria 507-385-3466 239 Belgrade Avenue, North Mankato dinospizzeria.com Domino's 507-625-3666 814 North Riverfront Drive, Mankato dominos.com Domino's 507-625-7711 300 Stadium Road, Mankato dominos.com Gary's Pizza 507-388-1233 923 South Front Street, Mankato garyspizza.com Jake's Stadium Pizza - Mankato 507-345-5420 330 Stadium Road, Suite 100, Mankato Jakesstadiumpizza.com

Papa Murphy's Take 'N' Bake Pizza 507-625-7444 1776 Madison Avenue, Mankato papamurphys.com Papa Murphy's Take 'N' Bake Pizza 507-625-5757 510 South Riverfront Drive, Mankato papamurphys.com Pizza Hut - Riverfront Drive 507-388-2973 930 North Riverfront Drive, Mankato pizzahut.com Pizza Ranch 507-386-7077 1551 Tullamore Street, Mankato pizzaranch.com Polito’s Pizza 507-779-7078 505 Front Street, Mankato politospizza.com Toppers Pizza 507-386-8282 1101 South Front Street, Mankato toppers.com Wow! Zone – Family Entertainment Center 507-625-2695 2030 Adams Street, Mankato wowzonefec.com

Wines & Brews August Schell Brewing 507-354-5528 1860 Schell Road, New Ulm schellsbrewery.com

Where to Eat and Drink

Mazatlan Mexican Restaurant 507-625-2406 1525 Tullamore Street, Mankato elmazatlanfood.com

Chankaska Creek Ranch & Winery 507-931-0089 1179 East Pearl Street, Kasota chankaskawines.com Indian Island Winery 507-234-6222 18018 - 631st Avenue, Janesville indianislandwinery.com Javens Family Vineyard & Winery 507-382-7596 20011 589th Ave, Mankato javenswinery.com LocAle Brewing Company 507-779-7082 228 Poplar Street, Mankato localebrew.com Mankato Brewery 507-386-2337 1119 Center Street, North Mankato mankatobrewery.com Morgan Creek Vineyards 507-947-3547 23707 478th Avenue, New Ulm morgancreekvineyards.com The Starkeller 507-359-7827 2215 North Garden Street, New Ulm schellsbrewery.com/brewery/strakeller

Authentic Mexican Food & Amazing Drinks

1404 MADISON AVE., MANKATO | 507.344.0607 | LATERRAZAMANKATO.COM mankatofreepress.com

OPEN: MONDAY-THURSDAY 11-10 FRIDAY & SATURDAY 11-10:30 SUNDAY 11-9

41

SOUTHERN MINNESOTA’S

PREMIERE DINNER THEATRE

EXPERIENCE

FOR TICKETS AND SEASON INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT:

MANKATOPLAYHOUSE.com 42

2021 GUIDE TO VISITING & LIVING IN GREATER MANKATO

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Art Galleries ARTifact – Paint Your Own Pottery 507-351-3111 321 N. Riverfront Drive, Mankato artifactmankato.com The 410 Project 523 South Front Street, Mankato the410project.com

CityArt On the Go 507-388-1062 City Center, Mankato citycentermankato.com/on-the-go/ CityArt Public Art Tour 507-388-1062 City Center, Mankato citycentermankato.com/public-art/ CityArt Walking Sculpture Tour 507-388-1062 City Center, Mankato cityartmankato.com Design & Wine 507-380-8438 300 Belgrade Avenue, North Mankato designandwinemn.com Emy Frentz Art Guild 507-387-1008 523 South Second Street, Mankato Marian Anderson Fine Art Gallery 507-345-5566 424 Warren Street, Mankato mariananderson.com

Entertainment Center Bounce Town – River Hills Mall 507-345-7737 1860 Adams Street, Mankato bouncetownmankato.com

Golf Le Sueur Country Club 507-665-6292 36195 311th Avenue, Le Sueur lesueurcountryclub.com Mankato Golf Club 507-387-5676 100 Augusta Drive, Mankato mankatogolfclub.com

Lincoln Community Center 507-387-5501 110 Fulton, Mankato

Minneopa Golf Club 507-625-5777 410 Pintail Street, Mankato minneopagolf.com

Minnesota State University, Mankato Centennial Student Union 507-389-2223 220 Centennial Student Union, Mankato csu.mnsu.edu

North Links Golf Course & Banquet Facility 507-947-3355 41553 - 520th Street, North Mankato northlinksgolf.com

Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center 507-389-3000 1 Civic Center Plaza, Mankato mayoclinichealthsystemeventcenter.com

Shoreland Country Club 507-931-3470 43781 Golf Course Road, Saint Peter shorelandcc.com

The Capitol Room 507-380-0220 419 S. Minnesota Ave, Saint Peter capitolroom.com

Terrace View Golf Course 507-388-7912 19304 MN-22, Mankato golfmankato.com

Victory Bowl 507-387-7991 203 South Victory Drive, Mankato victorybowl.com

Museums

Wow! Zone – Family Entertainment Center 507-625-2695 2030 Adams Street, Mankato wowzonefec.com

What to Do

Carnegie Art Center 507-625-2730 120 South Broad Street, Mankato thecarnegiemankato.com

Twin Rivers Council for the Arts 507-387-1008 424 North Riverfront Drive, Mankato twinriversarts.org

Betsy-Tacy Society 507-345-9777 333 Center Street, Mankato betsy-tacysociety.org Blue Earth County Historical Society 507-345-5566 424 Warren Street, Mankato BlueEarthCountyHistory.com

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Children's Museum of Southern Minnesota 507-386-0279 224 Lamm Street, Mankato cmsouthernmn.org

What to Do

Farmamerica 507-835-2052 7367 360th Avenue, Waseca Farmamerica.org Historic R.D. Hubbard House 507-345-4154 606 South Broad Street, Mankato bechshistory.com/visit/hubbard-house

Sporting & Adventure All Season's Arena 507-387-6552 1251 Monks Avenue, Mankato mankatocer.com/page/2921 Bent River Outfitter 507-388-2368 530 North Riverfront Drive Suite B30, Mankato bentriveroutfitter.com Drive-a-Tank 507-931-7385 550 West Cherry, Kasota driveatank.com Mankato Area BMX 100 Industrial Road mankatoareabmx.com

Minnesota State University, Mankato Rock Climbing Myers Field House, Mankato mnsu.edu/adventure/climbing/

Mankato Area Youth Symphony Orchestra 507-345-0702 Mayso.net

Mount Kato Ski Area 507-625-3363 20461 Hwy. 66, Mankato mountkato.com

Mankato Children’s Chorus 507-774-0597 mankatochildrenschorus.org

Nicollet Bike and Ski Shop 507-388-9390 607 N. Riverfront Drive, Mankato nicolletbike.com.com

Theatre, Music & Dance Bethany Lutheran College Theatre 507-344-7000 700 Luther Drive, Mankato blc.edu/theatre AMC Classic Mankato 6 507-625-1763 1600 Warren Street, Mankato carmike.com Cinemark Movies 8 – River Hills Mall 507-625-1929 1850 Adams Street #15, Mankato cinemark.com Dance Conservatory of Southern Minnesota 507- 625-2005 1400 Madison Avenue, Suite 202, Mankato

Mankato Curling Club 507-388-3335 600 Hope Street, Mankato

Dance Express 507-625-3865 2105 North Broad Street, Mankato danceexpressmankato.com

Mankato Family YMCA 507-387-8255 1401 South Riverfront Drive, Mankato mankatoymca.org

Gustavus Adolphus College Theatre 507-933-8000 800 W. College Ave., Saint Peter Gustavus.edu

Mankato MoonDogs 507-625-7047 1221 Caledonia Street, Mankato mankatomoondogs.com

Impulse Dance 507-383-7669 546 Grant Avenue, North Mankato Impulsedancemankato.com

Mankato Community Education & Recreation Department 507-387-5501 110 Fulton Street, Mankato mankatocer.com

Kato Ballroom 507-625-7553 200 Chestnut Street, Mankato katoballroom.com

Minnesota State University, Mankato Intercollegiate Athletics 507-389-6111 135 Myers Field House, Mankato msumavericks.com

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Mankato Ballet Company 507-625-7716 1650 Tullamore Street St 200 Mankato mankatoballet.org Mankato Playhouse 507-317-1245 12 Civic Center Plaza, Suite 1700 mankatoplayhouse.com Mankato Symphony Orchestra 507-625-8880 523 South Second Street, Mankato mankatosymphony.com Merely Players Community Theatre, Inc. 507-388-5483 110 Fulton Street, Mankato merelyplayers.com Minnesota State University, Mankato Theatre & Dance 507-389-2118 320 Maywood Avenue, Mankato mnsu.edu/theatre/ Minnesota Valley Chorale Minnesotavalleychorale.org/about Minnesota Valley Sweet Adelines 507-388-6148 Minnesotavalleychorus.org Spotlight Dance Company 507-382-5555 360 Adams Street, Mankato Spotlightdancecompany.net

Lincoln Community Center 507- 387-5501 110 Fulton Street, Mankato

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Getting Around Mankato Regional Airport 507-625-6006 3030 N Airport Rd, Mankato mankatoairport.com

Americare Mobility Van 507-625-6741 307 Pine Street, Mankato amvan.com

Kato Express 507-387-7418 161 Laurinda Lane, Mankato

Land to Air Express, Inc. 507-625-3977 50 Sibley Parkway, Mankato lantairexpress.com

Ruby Ride 412-742-8243

Mankato Area Bus Service ci.mankato.mn.us

Getting Around

Blue Earth Taxi 507-388-2227 360 Pierce Ave Suite 106, North Mankato

The Landline Company 310-650-7206 3030 N. Airport Road, Mankato landline.com

Taxi Pros 507-344-TAXI 101 D Street, Mankato Allied Van Lines Agent 507-200-1927

25 Years in Business

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507.388.9329 507.388.9329 507.388.9329

45

Where to Worship

Where to Worship

Beacon Lutheran Campus Center-Wels 507-345-4511 1506 Warren Street, Mankato beaconwels.org Belgrade Avenue United Methodist Church 507-625-3759 325 Sherman Street, North Mankato baumc.org Bethel Baptist Church BGC 507-345-4011 1250 Monks Avenue, Mankato bethelbaptistmankato.com Bethlehem Lutheran Church 507-388-2925 720 South Second Street, Mankato blcmankato.org Calvary Lutheran Church ELCA 507-278-3317 19216 Rapidan Avenue, Mankato Campus Lutheran Chapel & Student Center-LCMS 507-387-658 329 Ellis Avenue, Mankato Centenary United Methodist Church 507-225-6370 501 South 2nd Street, Mankato Chi Alpha Campus Ministry 507-519-0169 chialphamankato.com Christ Church 612-309-3695 20013 Stoltzman Road, Mankato christchurchmankato.com

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Christ Our Redeemer Evangelical Lutheran Church 507-345-4867 33 Birch Avenue, North Mankato lutheranlccf.org Christ the King Lutheran Church ELCA 507-345-5056 222 Pfau Street, Mankato ctkmankato.org The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 507-625-8185 1851 Marie Lane, North Mankato Church of Christ 507-387-2521 1210 Warren Street, Mankato mankatochurchofchrist.org Covenant Family Church 507-345-1586 709 North Riverfront Drive, Mankato cfcmankato.org Crossroads Lutheran Campus Ministry-ELCA 507-625-6779 331 Dillon Avenue, Mankato crossroadsatmnsu.org Crossview Covenant Church 507-387-5606 2000 Howard Drive West, North Mankato crossviewcovenant.org Dial-A-Meditation 507-345-3111 600 Lind Street, Mankato Dar Abi Bakr Islamic Center 507-386-1797 329 East Plum Street, Mankato

2021 GUIDE TO VISITING & LIVING IN GREATER MANKATO

Elevate Church 507-386-1100 191 North Victory Drive, Mankato elevatemankato.com Evangelical Free Church of Mankato 507-345-7451 354 Carol Court, North Mankato Family Fellowship Church 507-380-3469 56952 Juneau Road, Mankato First Christian Church 507-387-2197 1735 E. Main Street, Mankato First Congregational UCC 507-387-6592 150 Stadium Court, Mankato First Presbyterian Church - Mankato 507-387-2160 220 East Hickory Street, Mankato Good Shepherd Lutheran Church & School LCMS 507-388-4336 2101 Lor Ray Drive, Mankato goodshepherdmankato.org Grace Baptist Church 507-388-9355 600 Lind Street, Mankato Grace Lutheran Church ELCA 507-345-4248 110 North 4th Street, Mankato gracemankato.org Greater Mankato Area Catholic Churches 507-388-2995 632 S. Broad Street, Mankato Stjohnscatholicchurch.com/

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Hillside Church 507-345-7554 502 South Victory Drive, Mankato hillsidemankato.com

Seventh Day Adventist Church 507-625-8625 210 Pohl Road, Mankato

Messiah Lutheran Church, ELCA 507-387-5537 1706 Lee Boulevard, North Mankato

St. John Lutheran Church-LCMS 507-278-3835 55209 190th Street, Rapidan

Middleground Ministry 507-388-8457 119 Gwyn Avenue, Mankato

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church 507-625-3131 632 Broad Street, Mankato

Hope Baptist Church 507-387-3222 150 Jaycee Court, Mankato

Mount Olive Lutheran Church and School (ELS) 507-345-4966 1123 Marsh Street, Mankato mtolivelutheran.org

St. John's Episcopal Church 507-388-1969 302 Warren Street, Mankato

Hope Interfaith Center 507-386-1242 114 Pohl Road, Mankato hopeinterfaithcenter.com

New Creation World Outreach Church 507-388-7771 1124 North River Drive, North Mankato newcreationwoc.org

Hosanna Lutheran Church-LCMS 507-388-1766 105 Hosanna Avenue, Mankato hosannamankato.com

Newman Center 507-387-4154 1502 Warren Street, Mankato

Hilltop United Methodist 507-387-3877 108 South Manitou Drive, Mankato mankatohiltop.com Holy Rosary Catholic Church 507-387-6501 525 Grant Avenue, North Mankato

Hosanna Highland Campus & Community Church 507-388-1172 329 Ellis Avenue, Mankato Immanuel Lutheran Church 507-345-3027 421 North Second Street, Mankato immanuelmankato.org Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses 507-388-5757 420 Marie Lane, North Mankato Living Word Mankato 507-387-3857 20013 Stolzman Road, Mankato wordoflifemankato.com

Our Savior's Lutheran Church - Mankato 507-385-2180 1103 North Broad Street, Mankato Peace Lutheran Church (ELS) 507-385-1386 2090 Commerce Drive, North Mankato peacemankato.com Resurrection Lutheran Church 507-345-4455 1735 East Main, Mankato resurrectionmankato.org River Ridge Evangelical Free Church of Mankato 507-345-7451 354 Carol Court, North Mankato riverridgekato.org

Where to Worship

Mankato Church of Christ 507-387-2521 1210 Warren Street, Mankato

St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church 507-388-3766 423 West 7th Street, Mankato St. Mark Evangelical Lutheran Church (Wels) 507-388-2013 502 West 7th Street, Mankato St. Paul's Lutheran Church 507-345-7049 304 Monroe Avenue, North Mankato stpaulsnorthmankato.com St. Peter & Paul's Catholic Church 507-388-2995 105 North 5th Street, Mankato sspeterandpaul.com The Holy Christian Church Mankato 507-345-9673 220 East Main Street #4 thccmankato.org Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Mankato 507-388-5022 937 Charles Avenue, Mankato

Actively Serving the Community Holy Grounds Breakfast • Connections Shelter

Worship Services Weekly

Online at www.mankatocentenary.org On YouTube at www.youtube.com/MankatoCentenary Follow us on Facebook @MankatoCentenary 501 S. 2nd St • Downtown Mankato • 507-225-6370 • mankatocentenary.org mankatofreepress.com

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United Campus Ministry 507-345-7806 150 Stadium Court, Mankato

Where to Worship

Word of Life Free Lutheran Church AFLC 507-387-3857 20013 Stolzman Road, Mankato

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Museum • Research Center • Gift Shop Marian Anderson Art Gallery

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ARE YOU SUFFERING FROM

PAIN?

A PROVEN ALTERNATIVE TO SURGERY

Non-Invasive Stem Cell Therapy using your own stem cells following FDA guidelines Located in Mankato Clinic’s New Office in North Mankato on Lookout Drive

In 2018 I thought I was facing a total knee replacement. I was hesitant about the surgery as I witness what both of my parents went through with their replacement surgeries. At that time one of my doctors brought up regenerative medicine (stem cell transplant). I had never heard of this type of procedure and it sounded too good to be true. I contacted Bluetail for a second opinion.

They requested my prior images and medical history to see if they could help me. After reviewing my file, they determined that I was a candidate. This turned out to be one of the best decisions I have ever made. The procedure was outpatient and only took 2 hours. I liked It because they were using my own stem cells and I was avoiding the knife. The pain relief was quick and the downtime was only a couple of days. Today, almost 3 years later, all I have needed was a booster shot and my knees are better than they have been in 25 years. They are not perfect but I am doing things I wasn’t able to do before with very little to no pain. The best feeling is still having my own knee.

Once you give them up you don’t get them back. I figured for the seemingly low cost, it was worth exploring. I knew I could still get my knees replaced at a later date if this procedure didn’t work.

Another advantage is that technology keeps getting better every year.

– Bill Marks, 69, Farmer from Amboy, MN

Doctor-to-Doctor Consultations Welcome

507-385-4014 1575 Lookout Drive, North Mankato bluetailmedicalgroup.com

Dr. David Crane, MD Leader in Regenerative Medicine

Ask your friends & neighbors about their story.