Visit Bluff Country Magazine 2019-2020 by Visit Bluff Country

2019-2020

SE MINNESOTA • NE IOWA • SW WISCONSIN • NW ILLINOIS

A GUIDE TO HISTORIC BLUFF COUNTRY

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SE MINNESOTA • NE IOWA • SW WISCONSIN • NW ILLINOIS | VISIT BLUFF COUNTRY 2019-2020

Welcome to Bluff Country I 1 CONTENTS MINNESOTA

Bluff Country A Land of Unspoiled Beauty

rive along the Historic Bluff Country Scenic Byway (Trunk Highway 16) beside the Root River through Houston and Fillmore counties and you will see why many call this one of the most beautiful areas in Minnesota and Iowa. Scenic river towns that once powered the mills that ran the agricultural commerce of the new territories and housed the railroad depots now beckon the traveler to enjoy quaint country charm and breathtaking vistas. The trains have disappeared, but an old rail bed has been developed into a hiking and biking trail system, the Root River State Trail and Harmony-Preston Valley Trail (MN), which provide over 60 miles of biking, hiking and in-line skating, as well as groomed cross-country ski trails in the winter. The newest addition to the Trout Run Trail in Decorah, Iowa is now open. Bluff Country is unique in its combination of hardwood forests, trout streams, agriculture, apple orchards, numerous springs and underground caves, as well as flocks of wild turkeys, bald eagles, and herds of whitetail deer. Known as the Driftless Area because it was missed by the last ice age’s powerful glaciers, the topography has been sculpted by the erosive effect of water eating away at limestone. This “karst” landscape is characterized

Caledonia................................................................8-11 Canton....................................................................11-13 Chatfield............................................................... 13-18 Fountain...............................................................18-20 Harmony...............................................................21-30 Houston................................................................31-32 Kellogg........................................................................ 53 Lanesboro........................................................... 33-42 LeRoy.................................................................... 45-46 Mabel.....................................................................47-49 Millville................................................................. 49-50 Minneiska................................................................... 51 Peterson...............................................................55-56 Plainview....................................................................50 Preston................................................................. 57-66 Reads Landing.........................................................54 Red Wing....................................................................66 Rushford...............................................................67-73 Rushford Village...................................................... 71 Spring Grove.......................................................73-76 Spring Valley.......................................................77-82 Wabasha..................................................................... 52 Whalan................................................................. 43-44 Winona................................................................. 82-86 Wykoff.................................................................. 86-88

IOWA

by towering bluffs, sinkholes and swift rocky streams. The superb hunting, along with excellent trout, bass, catfish and pan fish fishing, is right here. For the casual traveler who is looking for quiet time to reflect in nature’s beautiful surroundings, Bluff Country offers a special place far from the maddening crowds, with a wide selection of Bed & Breakfasts, motels, or campgrounds from which to choose. Stroll through the many boutiques and specialty shops, take a night out for professional theatre, or explore the many back roads that run through farming country. You may even run across a few Amish farms on your adventure. Golfers will find a dozen courses that offer not only a challenge, but beautiful scenery as well. Almost any time of year features seasonal celebrations, but the citizens of Bluff Country welcome visitors year round. Shoppers will delight in the variety of antique and gift shops, as well as an array of eateries. And, for the recreational enthusiast, Bluff Country has it all. From kayaking or fly fishing the swift streams, to turkey and deer hunting the hardwood forests, to biking and roller blading the trails through the countryside, Bluff Country, Southeast MN, Northeast IA, and Southwest WI, is an ideal place for a getaway.

Burr Oak......................................................................94 Charles City........................................................ 94-95 Clermont....................................................................95 Cresco................................................................... 96-98 Decorah............................................................. 98-106 Dyersville.................................................................107 Elkader.............................................................108-109 Fort Atkinson.......................................................... 110 Froelich............................................................. 110-111 Guttenberg......................................................111-112 Hawkeye................................................................... 112 Kendallville.............................................................. 113 Lansing.............................................................. 113-114 Lime Springs...................................................114-115 Manchester............................................................. 117 McGregor/Marquette..................................116-117 New Hampton........................................................ 118 Osage......................................................................... 119 Protivin...................................................................... 118 Riceville.....................................................................120 Spillville....................................................................120 Waukon.....................................................................121

WISCONSIN

Alma...........................................................................128 La Crosse......................................................... 128-130 Platteville.................................................................130 Warrens.....................................................................130

MAPS & INFORMATION

Area Map, MN.....................................................92-93 Area Map, IA................................................... 122-123 Area Map, WI...................................................132-133 Business Directory................................................ 3-5 Calendar of Events....................................... 134-136 Farmers Markets........................................................ 7 IA Bike Trail Maps..................................................126 La Crosse Area Bike Map........................... 140-141 Root River Bike Trail Map, MN............................89 Shooting Star Bike Trail Map, MN......................46 Trout Fishing Map, MN................................... 90-91 Trout Fishing Map, IA.................................. 124-125 Visitor Centers, MN.................................................88 Visitor Centers, IA..................................................127 Visitor Centers, WI.................................................127 Winery & Brewery Tour Map.............................131 © 2019 Sethre Media Group, Inc. P.O. Box 496, Preston, MN 55965 507-765-2151 • www.visitbluffcountry.com

2 I Best of the Best

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QUESTIONS?

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One drawing winner will be announced each month and notified by e-mail. Winners will be required to pick up prizes at the Visit Bluff Country Magazine office in Preston, MN.

ONE WINNER EACH MONTH! MAY, JUNE, JULY, AUGUST, SEPTEMBER Final entry deadline is September 30, 2019.

Business Directory I 3

MINNESOTA ANTIQUES

New Generations of Harmony Treasures Under Sugar Loaf

APPAREL

Amish Experince and E2 Boutique Bick n Berry Boutique Chic by Chateau Footwear by Footskins HIS Business Hoffman’s Stables/Tack Shop Little River General Store The Clothes Shop Threads Trailhead Inn

Harmony Winona

p. 28 p. 84

Lanesboro p. 36 Chatfield p. 15 Spring Valley p. 80 Spring Grove p. 76 Spring Grove p. 76 Preston p. 63 Lanesboro p. 34 Winona p. 83 Chatfield p. 18 Preston p. 65

BANKING SERVICES

F&M Community Bank First State Bank of Fountain Root River State Bank Rushford State Bank

Chatfield, Preston p. 16, 61 Fountain p. 20 Chatfield p. 15 Rushford p. 68

BEER/WINE/SPIRITS

52 Bottle Shop Chatfield p. 17 Garvin Heights Vineyards/Event Center Winona p. 86 Granny’s Liquor Lanesboro B. Cover Karst Brewing Fountain p. 19 Pam’s Off-Sale Liquor Harmony, Rushford p. 28, 70 Reads Landing Brewing Company Reads Landing p. 54 TJ’s Liquor Spring Valley p. 80

BREWERIES

Karst Brewing Reads Landing Brewing Company

Fountain Reads Landing

p. 19 p. 54

CAMPING/SERVICES

Amish Valley Cabins & Campers Bluffview Campground Eagle Cliff Campground & Lodging Good Earth Village Old Barn Resort Maple Springs Campground Outback Ranch Winnebago Springs

Canton p. 13 Rushford p. 68 Lanesboro p. 39 Spring Valley p. 78 Preston C-4 Preston p. 65 Houston p. 32 Caledonia C-6

CONVENIENCE STORES

Houston bp Lanesboro bp Mabel bp Pam’s Corner Convenience Store Preston Motor Mart

Houston Lanesboro Mabel Rushford Preston

p. 31 p. 40 p. 49 p. 70 p. 66

EATING/DRINKING ESTABLISHMENTS

A&W Restaurant B&B Olympic Bowl and Restaurant Beaver Bottom Saloon Branding iron Burdey’s Cafe Estelle’s Eatery & Bar

Spring Valley Preston Fountain Preston Peterson Harmony

p. 77 p. 60 p. 19 p. 58 p. 56 p. 25

Good Times Restaurant & Bar Green Mill Restaurant & Bar Harmony House High Court Pub Il Luigi Italian Restaurant Ivy Grove Cafe Nordic Lanes & Lounge Norsland Lefse Old Barn Resort Pedal Pushers Cafe Peterson American Legion Preston Servicemen’s Club Rack’s Bar & Grill Root River Saloon Shari’s Sports Saloon Shawnee’s Bar & Grill Staghead Gastropub Stumpy’s Restaurant & Lounge The Bite The Creamery/Nordic Lanes Whiskey Dicks Eatery & Saloon

Caledonia p. 8 Winona p. 85 Harmony p. 27 Lanesboro p. 41 Rushford p. 69 Spring Grove p. 76 Rushford p. 71 Rushford p. 72 Preston C-4 Lanesboro p. 42 Peterson p. 56 Preston p. 59 Spring Valley p. 81 Lanesboro p. 42 Chatfield p. 17 Rushford p. 70 Red Wing p. 66 Rushford p. 70 Lanesboro p. 41 Rushford p. 71 Millville p. 50

FURNITURE

Countryside Furniture Drury’s Furniture Langseth Wood Carving Looking Glass Prairie Furniture Store RJ Amish Furniture The Woods Fine Amish Furniture Triple M Furniture

Harmony Fountain Minneiska Harmony Harmony Plainview Harmony

p. 29 C-3 p. 51 p. 27 p. 22 p. 50 p. 24

GARDEN/FLORAL

Harmony Gardens & Floral Preston Floral & Gift

Harmony p. 28 Preston p. 65

GENERAL STORES

Little River General Store Rushford Hardware Rentals

Lanesboro Rushford

p. 34 p. 68

GIFT SHOPS

Amish Experience & E2 Boutique Countryside Furniture Harmony Gardens & Floral HIS Business Hoffmann Tack Shop Langseth Wood Carving LARK Toys Little River General Store Niagara Cave Norsland Lefse Preston Floral & Gift RJ Amish Furniture Stone Mill Hotel & Suites The Village Depot The Village School Quilt Shop Triple M Furniture Winona County History Center

Lanesboro p. 36 Harmony p. 29 Harmony p. 28 Spring Grove p. 76 Preston p. 63 Minneiska p. 51 Kellogg p. 53 Lanesboro p. 34 Harmony p. 26 Rushford p. 72 Preston p. 65 Harmony p. 22 Lanesboro p. 40, B. Cover Harmony p. 24 Harmony p. 24 Harmony p. 24 Winona p. 86

GOLF COURSES

Harmony Golf Club Preston Golf & Country Club Rivers’ Bend at the Old Barn Resort

Harmony Preston Preston

p. 22 p. 62 C-4

4 I Business Directory

Minnesota

GROCERY/SPECIALTY FOOD

Blossom Hill orchard & farm Harmony Foods Norsland Lefse Ody’s Country Meats Pam’s Corner Convenience Pine Tree Apple Orchard Preston Foods Rushford Foods Sunshine Foods

Preston p. 61 Harmony p. 25 Rushford p. 72 Spring Valley p. 78 Rushford p. 70 Preston p. 60 Preston p. 61 Rushford p. 67 Chatfield, Spring Valley p. 17, 80

HUNTING, FISHING, CAMPING SUPPLIES

Cedar Valley Resort & Outfitters Little River General Store Magnum Sports National Trout Center Root River Outfitters Rushford Hardware Rentals The Driftless Fly Fishing Co.

Whalan Lanesboro Chatfield Preston Lanesboro Rushford Preston

p. 43, C-2 p. 34 p. 16 p. 60 p. 38 p. 68 p. 59

LOCAL COMMUNITY SERVICES

Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce Caledonia p. 9 City of Chatfield Chatfield p. 14 City of Fountain Fountain p. 18 City of Mabel Mabel p 48 City of Peterson Peterson p. 55 City of Rushford Rushford p. 72 City of Rushford Village Rushford Village p. 72 City of Whalan Whalan p. 44 City of Wykoff Wykoff p. 87 Harmony Area Chamber of Commerce Harmony p. 23 Lanesboro Area Chamber of Commerce Lanesboro p. 33 Mabel Business Association Mabel p. 48 Prairie Visions LeRoy, Adams, Rose Creek, Taopi p. 46 Preston Tourism & Chamber of Commerce Preston p. 57 Rushford Peterson Valley Peterson, Rushford, Rushford Village p. 55, 72 Spring Grove Communications Spring Grove p. 75 Spring Grove EDA Spring Grove p. 74 Spring Valley Chamber of Commerce/EDA Spring Valley p. 80 Spring Valley p. 79 Spring Valley Tourism

LODGING

Amish Valley Cabin & Campers Canton p. 13 Asahi Loft Harmony p. 27 Berwood Hill Inn Lanesboro p. 42 Big River Resort Wabasha p. 52 Cedar Valley Resort & Outfitters Lanesboro/Whalan p. 43, C-2 Country Trails Inn & Suites Preston p. 63 Cottage House Inn Lanesboro p. 36 Days Inn Winona p. 84 Dick’s Halfway Inn Millville p. 49 Eagle Cliff Campground & Lodging Lanesboro p. 39 Fairfield Inn & Suites Winona p. 85 Good Earth Village Spring Valley p. 78 Grandma’s Inn Lanesboro p. Habberstad House B&B Lanesboro p. 41 Historic Scanlan House B&B Lanesboro p. 37 Holiday Inn Express & Suites Winona p. 85 Jail House Inn Preston p. 59 Oakenwald Terrace B&B Chatfield p. 16, C-7 Old Barn Resort Preston C-4 River House Inn Peterson p. 56 Riverport Inn & Suites Winona p. 85

Stone Mill Hotel & Suites The Plaza Hotel & Suites Trailhead Inn Winnebago Springs

Lanesboro p. 40, B. Cover Winona p. 85 Preston p. 65 Caledonia C-6

MUSEUMS

Houston County Historical Society Museum LARK Toys Polish Cultural Institute and Museum Pope & Young Club Winona County History Center

Caledonia Kellogg Winona Chatfield Winona

p. 11 p. 53 p. 84 p. 13 p. 86

RECREATION/ENTERTAINMENT

Amish Valley Cabins & Campers Canton p. 13 B&B Olympic Bowl and Restaurant Preston p. 60 Chatfield Center for the Arts Chatfield p. 16, C-7 Commonweal Theatre Company Lanesboro p. 39, B. Cover Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center Lanesboro p. 38 Great River Shakespeare Festival Winona p. 83 Hammell Equipment Chatfield, Eitzen, Harmony, Rushford p. 30, 72 JEM Theatre Harmony p. 21 Lanesboro Arts Lanesboro p. 35 Lost Creek Hiking Trail Chatfield p. 17 Niagara Cave Harmony p. 26 Nordic Lanes & Lounge Rushford p. 71 Outback Ranch Houston p. 32 Prairie Visions LeRoy, Adams, Rose Creek, Taopi p. 46 Chatfield p. 17 Shari’s Sports Saloon & Lanes Spring Grove Cinema Spring Grove p. 75 Spring Grove Fitness Center Spring Grove p. 75 Spring Grove Family Swim Center Spring Grove p. 76 The Old Barn Resort & Rivers’ Bend Golf Lanesboro C-4 Winnebago Springs Caledonia C-6

REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Burnet - John Nelson ReMax - Roxanne Johnson Chad Weiss Realty

RENTALS

Cedar Valley Resort & Outfitters Little River General Store Rushford Hardware Rentals

Lanesboro Harmony Preston

p. 39 p. 25, 40 p. 64

Whalan Lanesboro Rushford

p. 43, C-2 p. 34 p. 68

SPECIALTIES & SERVICES

Chateau de Chic Salon Spring Valley p. 80 Denny’s Trailer Sales Wykoff p. 87 Doggy Day Care Peterson p. 56 Spring Valley p. 81 Five Wynds Event Venue Garvin Heights Vineyard/Event Venue Winona p. 86 Hammell Equipment Chatfield, Eitzen, Harmony, Rushford p. 30, 72 Harmony Custom Kitchens Harmony p. 29 Harmony Telephone Company/Computers Harmony p. 30 Harrington Enterprises LeRoy p. 45, 82 Hoffmann’s Stables/Tack Shop Preston p. 63 NAPA -Chatfield Parts House Chatfield p. 18 NAPA - Preston Auto Parts Preston p. 63 National Trout Center Preston p. 60 Pine Tree Apple Orchard Preston p. 60 Root River Hardwoods Preston p. 64 Serenity Hills Event Venue Preston p. 62 Spring Grove Communications Spring Grove p. 75 Spring Valley Living Spring Valley p. 82 Valley Laundry Spring Valley p. 81

Business Directory I 5

Minnesota/Iowa/Wisconsin Amish Tours of Harmony Bluffscape Amish Tours Historic Scanlan House B&B Niagara Cave

TOURS

Harmony p. 24 Lanesboro p. 36, B. Cover Lanesboro p. 37 Harmony p. 26

WINERIES

Garvin Heights Vineyard/Event Center

Winona p. 86

VEHICLE SALES & SERVICE

Brown’s Tire, Battery & Transmission Rushford Village p. 73 Preston p. 62 Preston Service Plus Spring Valley Chevrolet Buick Spring Valley p. 19, 43, 45, 81

IOWA ANTIQUES

Heaven’s Hill Antiques, Collectibles & More Turkey River Mall

Guttenberg Elkader

p. 111 p. 108

GROCERY/SPECIALTY FOOD

Oneota Food Coop WW Homestead Dairy

LOCAL COMMUNITY SERVICES

Allamakee County Conservation Board Allamakee County Historical Society Charles City Chamber City of Elkader Delaware County Tourism Guttenberg Development & Tourism Howard County Business & Tourism Lime Springs Community Club McGregor/Marquette Chamber of Commerce Mitchell County Conservation Board New Hampton Parks & Recreation

Decorah p. 105 Cresco, Decorah, Monona p. 98

BEER/WINE/SPIRITS

Eagles Landing Winery Empty Nest Winery Promise Land Winery Pulpit Rock Brewing Company Toppling Goliath Brewing Company Winneshiek Wildberry Winery

Marquette Decorah Guttenberg Decorah Decorah Decorah

p. 117 p. 104 p. 112 p. 99 p. 106 p. 102

Decorah Decorah

p. 99 p. 106

CAMPING/SERVICES

Hruska’s Canoe Livery & Campground Kendallville Campground Lake Meyer Park & Campground

MUSEUMS

Bily Clocks Museum Froelich 1890s Village Museum Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum

RENTALS

Decorah Kendallville Fort Atkinson

p. 102 p. 113 p. 110

EATING/DRINKING ESTABLISHMENTS

FURNITURE

K & K Gardens Pinter’s Gardens

Decorah Charles City

GARDEN/FLORAL

WINERIES

Fisk Farm & Home Lansing Hardware & Service

p. 112 p. 99

Cresco, Decorah, Monona Lansing

GIFT SHOPS

Cresco Charles City Elkader

p. 98 p. 114

p. 98 p. 94, C-5 p. 108

Decorah Decorah

p. 104 p. 106

Spillville Froelich Decorah

p. 120 p. 111 p. 103

Osage Charles City Dyersville

p. 119 p. 95 p. 107

Decorah

p. 102

Cresco p. 97 Riceville p. 120 Decorah p. 101 Lime Springs p. 114 Cresco p. 97 Cresco p. 98

Marquette Decorah Guttenberg Decorah

p. 117 p. 104 p. 112 p. 102

WISCONSIN

ANTIQUES & GIFT SHOPS

Antique Center of La Crosse

Hawkeye Decorah

GENERAL STORES

Studio 9 The Rustic Corner Turkey River Mall

p. 98 p. 94, C-5

p. 113 p. 121 p. 95 p. 109 p. 117 p. 111 p. 96 p. 115 p. 116 p. 119 p. 118

SPECIALTIES & SERVICES

Alum-Line Trailers Gansen Auto & RV Sales KDEC Radio Lime Springs Medical Clinic Regional Health Services Studio 9

Don Jose Mexican Restaurant Decorah p. 102 Eagles Landing Winery Good Times Grill Decorah p. 100 Empty Nest Winery Oneota Food Coop Decorah p. 103 Promise Land Winery Rubaiyat Decorah p. 100 Winneshiek Wildberry Winery T-Bock’s Sports Bar & Grill Decorah p. 100

Jane’s Consulting of Amish Furniture The Rustic Corner

p. 103 p. 121

Lansing Waukon Charles City Elkader Manchester Guttenberg Cresco Lime Springs McGregor Osage New Hampton

RECREATION/ENTERTAINMENT

Cedar Summerstock Theater Charles City Whitewater Field of Dreams Movie Site

Hruska’s Canoe Livery & Campground

BREWERIES

Pulpit Rock Brewing Company Toppling Goliath Brewing Company

LODGING

Fairfield Inn & Suites Hotel Winneshiek

APPAREL

Amundson’s Clothing for Men Fisk Farm & Home

Decorah Waukon

Castlerock Museum Veterans Hall of Honor

MUSEUMS

La Crosse

p. 129

Alma La Crosse

p. 128 p. 130

RECREATION/ENTERTAINMENT

Fun in the Sun Houseboats La Crosse Queen Cruises Warrens Cranberry Festival, Inc.

Alma La Crosse Warrens

p. 128 p. 129 p. 130

6 I Advertise With Us

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

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The Premiere Tourism Guide to Bluff Country The Visitor’s Guide Includes... • Maps of the area • Calendar of events • Town descriptions • Directory of participating businesses

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Farmers Markets I 7

Maximize your farmers market trip

Community-based farmers markets can introduce shoppers to an array of foods they may otherwise never experience. Farmers markets are great places to find fresh, locally grown foods, and many market customers are happy to know they’re benefitting both the environment and local businessess with every dime they spend. Farmers markets can range from the very large to the relatively small, and first-time visitors may not know where to begin. The following are a handful of ways to maximize your visit to farmers markets of all sizes. • Take time to explore. Farmers markets tend to have many of the same fruits and vegetables you can find at the local chain grocery store, but farmers markets also are known for offering more than what you may find in the produce aisle. Take time to explore the market and you may just find foods you typically only find at your favorite restaurant. Exploring also may introduce you to new foods you may otherwise never have tried. • Consider the timing of your visit. The popularity of farmers markets has increased dramatically as more

MINNESOTA

Lanesboro Farmers Market: May through October Saturdays 9-12 • Sylvan Park LeRoy Farmers Market: June 6 through October 17 Thursdays 4-6:30 • Hwy 56, downtown LeRoy Simple Living Farmers Market: Late April to late October Saturdays 8:30-11:30 • 1/4 mile west of Hwy 44/43, Mabel and Wednesdays 3-6 • Late April through late October Redwood Cafe parking lot, Hwy 44, Caledonia Preston Pop-up/Farmers Market: May 11, June 8, July 13, August 10, September 14 • Saturdays 9am-1pm • North side of Courthouse Rushford Peterson Valley Farmers Market: June through October Wednesdays 4-6:30 • East end of Rushford Depot Wabasha Farmers Market: End of May through October Wednesdays 3-7, Saturdays 9-12 • Main St. W and Alleghany Ave. Winona Farmers Market: May 4 through October Saturdays 7:30-12 • Winona Levee, 2nd St. and Main. Winter Market: November through April Saturdays, East End Rec Center, 210 Zumbro St.

and more people embrace the concept of buying locally grown foods. While that’s great news for the planet and local farmers, shoppers should keep that in mind when planning their visits. If you love trying new foods, arrive early to the farmers market before the more unique offerings have been snapped up. Foods that have small yet devoted followings may not be available in abundance, and you may end up leaving empty-handed if you arrive late. If it’s a bargain you want, then visit later in the day when farmers with substantial remaining inventory may be more inclined to lower their prices. • Speak with the sellers. Firsttime farmers market shoppers may feel like they’re lost in the woods while everyone else seems to know exactly what they want and where to get it. If you find the farmers market somewhat intimidating, speak with the sellers. Shopping at the local farmers market tends to be more intimate than shopping at the chain grocery store, and many sellers would be happy to offer you some tips and make some suggestions based on the meals you like. Farmers markets are great places to support local businesses and find fresh foods.

IOWA

Charles City Farmers Market: May 11 - October 19 Saturdays 9-12 • Central Park Cresco Farmers Market: May through October Tuesdays & Fridays 2-5:30 • Grube’s north lot, west of Beadle Park Decorah, Winneshiek Farmers Market: May through October Saturdays 8-11, Wednesdays 3-6 • Oneota Food Coop parking lot AND Indoor Market, November and December • 1st & 3rd Saturdays 8:30-11 (updates at winneshiekfarmersmarket.com) • Fairgrounds Elkader Farmers Market: Saturdays mid-May through mid-October Saturdays 9am-12pm • Keystone Park Guttenberg Farmers Market: May 18 to end of October Saturdays 8-12 • 400 block of S. River Park Drive Manchester Farmers Market: May 25 through October 5 Saturdays 7:30-11am• River Street, downtown Marquette Farmers Market: May 24 through October 11 Fridays 4-7 pm • Driftless Area Wetlands Centre, 509 Hwy 18 Osage Farmers Market: May 25 through September Saturdays 8am-12pm • 7th St. & State Protivin Farmers Market: End of May through October Wednesdays 2-5:30 • City Park Riceville Farmers Market: End of May through October Saturdays 9-11:30 • 203 Main St. & Hwy 9 Waukon Farmers Market: June-October Mondays 3:30-6 • Allamakee County Fairgrounds

WISCONSIN

La Crosse Farmers Markets: Various days, times & venues see explorelacrosse.com Tomah Farmers Market: May-October Wednesdays 11-6 and Saturdays 6-1 • Gillett Park, E. Holton St.

8 I Caledonia, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

aledonia has a unique combination of old-fashioned fun and new creative adventures in store for visitors. Caledonia, population near 3,000, is the Wild Turkey Capital of Minnesota and the heart of Quilt Country. Start your visit in Caledonia with any number of seasonal activities. The Founder’s Day festival in June, the Houston County Fair held every August, the October Caledonia Balloon Rally & Turkey Fest, and the Winter Wonderland Celebration & Balloon Rally in December celebrate Caledonia’s motto: A City for All Seasons. Our 4-H fair is the largest rural county fair in Minnesota, with bandstand entertainment, farming exhibitions, and midway. After a local shopping experience and a meal, take the time to wind your way through some or all of the following: our historic downtown walking tour, the community swimming pool, biking, nine holes of golf, a tour of the local stave mill or Schech’s Mill, hiking, fishing, hunting, groomed snowmobile trails. A visit to the new history museum/complex adjacent to the Houston County Fairgrounds is a “walk back in time.” History Lane includes these historical buildings: an old school house, pioneer cabin, church and town hall. Caledonia can accommodate overnight visitors with our bed and breakfast, inn and motels. We are also home to Beaver Creek Valley State Park with primitive and modern campsites. Caledonia boasts beautiful bluffs and scenic vistas, and we are just 15 miles west of the mighty Mississippi. For a current calendar of events and a business directory, please contact the Caledonia Chamber of Commerce at (507)

725-5477 or visit us at our website: www.caledoniachamberofcommerce.com. Caledonia’s claim to fame: • We are the Houston County seat. • Largest Pin Oak in Minnesota, located in the Evergreen Cemetery. • Birthplace of the Kunst brothers, known as the “Earthwalkers.” • Historic district includes the Williams Hotel and the Sprague Block - which are part of the Downtown Historic Walking Tour. • Proclaimed the Wild Turkey Capital of Minnesota. • Proclaimed the Heart of Quilt Country in 2008, with over 60 barns on the current self-guided barn quilt tours.

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GOOD TIMES RESTAURANT & BAR HOURS:

Mon-Fri Open at 11am Sat & Sun Open at 4 pm

118 Bissen Street Caledonia, MN 55921 507.725.3839

Full Service Restaurant and Bar • All Homemade Food

CATERING ON AND OFF PREMISES. (Banquet Room on lower level with full bar)

FAMOUS FOR OUR PIZZA

All Homemade Ingredients • 5 Blend Pizza Cheese

DAILY LUNCH & DINNER SPECIALS

Check out our newly renovated patio

EMAIL: GOODTIMESCALEDONIA@OUTLOOK.COM WEBSITE: GTCALEDONIA.COM

BEST BURGERS AROUND Sandwiches • Soup • Salad Bar

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Caledonia, MN I 9

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A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Start a Family tradition of old Fashion Memories at Betsy’s Bed & Breakfast

TWO WEEKENDS

Betsy’s

CALEDONIA HOT AIR

Est. 1896

LAUNCHING AT CALEDONIA HIGH SCHOOL

BALLOON RALLY Caledonia, MN

October 19 & 20, 2019

Bed & BreakFaSt inn

one of the original stops on the Caledonia Barn Quilt tour! Call today to make your reservation! 507-724-FarM (3276)

10672 Cty 249 Caledonia, Mn 55921

available for whole house visits – 6 bedrooms with private baths

www.betsysbedandbreakfast.com

from sunri se to

For more information contact Marian at 507-725-5269

t se

Redwood Cafe

. the..

You’r

me o c el

WEATHER PERMITTING

ea lw ay

The 300 acre Pieper Farm was established in 1896 and is currently being operated by David & Betsy, along with their five children, the fifth and sixth generations of the Pieper family!

Launching Sat., October 19 7:30am & 4:30pm Sun., October 20 7:30am DECEMBER 7 & 8, 2019 Launching Sat., December 7 7:30am & 2:30pm Sun., December 8 7:30am

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Specials

Mon-Fri 5:30am-7:00pm Sat 5:30am-2:00pm Sun 6:00am-1:00pm 117 N. Hwy 44 & 76, Caledonia 507-725-2270

Beautifully restored to its original country elegance, the Historic Caledonia Inn offers two, two-room suites and two single rooms

135 East Main St. • Caledonia, Minnesota 507-724-1212 • caledoniainn.com

Pre-booking is required for all visits

Caledonia/Canton, MN I 11

www.visitbluffcountry.com

104 History Lane • Caledonia, MN • 507-725-3884 • 507-896-2291 • 507-495-3265 hchs@acegroup.cc • houstoncountyhistoricalsociety.org

Located by Houston County Fairgrounds, caLedonia. Open year round!

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday 10am-4pm (additional hours June - August)

Saturday and Sunday 1-4pm Other times available through appointment

Flatten-Swenson Log Home • Sheldon Presbyterian Church Daley School • Agriculture Building • Mayville Town Hall Other displays of Houston County in the new museum

oLd Fashioned CHristmas December 7 & 8, 2019

Visit our Research center & Library!

The Christian Bunge, Jr. Store in Eitzen and The Church of the Holy Comforter, Episcopal in Brownsville are both listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

EitzEn Christian Bunge, Jr. Store (Restored Country Store in Eitzen, MN)

Open by appointment

BrownsvillE The Church of the Holy Comforter, Episcopal (Church with original furnishings)

Open by appointment

Canton, MN

anton, located along U.S. Highway 52, is the first Minnesota city along this major north-south route. The farmland around Canton, with its rich soils, was the first area of choice by the local Amish community, which began to settle just north of the city limits in 1974. That community has grown steadily and now encompasses many acres. Buggies are a common sight in town and in the countryside. U.S. Highway 52 between Prosper and Preston is a designated Amish Buggy Byway. Canton was originally founded in 1879 as a stopping point for the railroad. At first its legal name was Boomer, depicting how fast it was built, but because another town in Minnesota had the same name, Boomer was changed to Canton. Canton’s population has remained constant through its history at just under 400. For many years its economy was based on agriculture, as were so many rural Minnesota

Crest Inn

“Enter As Strangers, Leave As Friends”

& ApArtments 15944 State Hwy 76, Caledonia, MN • 507-724-3311

• 19 Motel Rooms w/2 beds • Free 120 Cable Stations • Free Wireless • Free Continental Breakfast • Microwaves • Fridges • No pets • No smoking • 24 hour cancellation policy

Toll Free Reservation Hotline: 1-800-845-0904 www.crestinncaledonia.com

Overlooking Golf Course Located on Snowmobile Trail

cities. This has changed, however. Increasingly more of its citizens are young families, who like the small town flavor of Canton, the affordable housing, closeness to various large cities that offer employment and easy access to a major highway. The oldest church in Fillmore county, the Lenora Methodist Church, built in 1856, is located just four miles north of Canton. It is worth a visit to see the structure, constructed from locally quarried stone. Included inside are hand carved pews, a pot belly stove, an old pump organ, as well as kerosene lamps. Abundant pheasant, deer, raccoon, and turkey populations, as well as great trout streams, make hunting and fishing a major attraction around Canton. Groomed snowmobile trails run through the area and city.

VOTE FOR THE

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BEST OF THE BEST AND WIN A

GRIZZLY COOLER

V I S I T B L U F F C O U N T RY. C O M / T H E B E S T Complete the online ballot and you'll be entered into a drawing for one of the grand prizes.

Only businesses and organizations represented in this Visit Bluff Country Magazine will be eligible for BEST of the BEST Awards selection.

12 I Canton, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Let the good times roll!

The BIG One! August 16, 17, 18

Canton Day Off • Poker Run • Boomer BBQ Contest • Bingo • Bean Bag Tournament • 5K Run/Walk • Kids Activities • Parade • Sunday Funday For more information see: www.cantondayoff.com

MAKING THEIR CANTON DAY OFF DEBUT

Saturday

Collectibles Furniture Gifts Primitives Art

105 Main Street, Canton, MN 507-438-5333 or 507-438-9142 OPEN Thursday - Sunday 11a.m. – 5p.m.

T A Z Z P

On & Off Sale

Open: Tues - Fri at 3pm • Sat-Sun at 12 200 N. Main Canton, MN • 743-8311

Bar Bingo every Tuesday night at 7pm

Mitson House MuseuM 307 North Main Canton, MN

FREE GUIDED TOURS

Saturdays • 1-4pm FOR OTHER TOUR TIMES CALL 507-743-8338

A real step into the past.

SAVINGS • VALUE • SELECTION

Aug. 17 No Cover Charge

Bingo every Tuesday night @ 7pm - ZZ TAP Canton Day Off www.cantondayoff.com

55 Center St W, • 507-886-2225

myharmonyfoods.com M-Sat: 7am-9pm, Sun 8am-7pm

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Canton/Chatfield, MN I 13

While you're staying, enjoy a (Freewill donation)

Chatfield, MN

hatfield, the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chosen Valley,â&#x20AC;? is just 20 minutes from the bustle of the city, Rochester International Airport, and Mayo Clinic. A state safety and health award winner, the attractive city sits along the Root River and Mill Creek, a series of pools ripe for trout fishing. Mill Creek Park, a 47-acre amenity-filled commons offers picnic areas, ball fields, sand volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, biking, skateboarding, and a horse arena, as well as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and a hockey and skating rink in the winter. Wildlife abounds, which makes its pristine hiking trails a draw. The Lost Creek Hiking Trail is maintained by the Bluff Country Hiking Club and offers 6.35 miles of ranging terrain and ecosystems of forest, prairie, and pasture. For a bit faster pace, the 16-mile Chatfield ATV Trail sits east of town and is open to the public May through October. Following the rise and fall of the bluffs and valleys, and winding through woodlots, pastures, and along streams, the trail is geared for all ages and experience levels. A scramble area is CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

Pope & Young Club/St. Charles Museum of Bowhunting In the rolling hills and farmland of southeastern Minnesota, just minutes off of Interstate 90, lies the singular, crowning testimony to North America's rich bowhunting heritage... a place to learn about bowhunting's history, a place to appreciate bowhunting's "rediscovery," a place to understand bowhunting's place in wildlife conservation and in our culture.

273 Mill Creek Road Chatfield, MN. (507) 867-4144 M-F: 8:00AM to 4:30PM Saturday: 10:00AM to 5:00PM

CONCERTS, CLASSES & EXHIBITS— WWW. CHATFIELDARTS. ORG㻌

WWW. CI. CHATFIELD. MN. US㻌

J ANUARY— C HILL F EST, A PRIL— T ROUT C LASSIC, MAYO CTOBER G ROWERS M ARKET, J UNE- J ULY M USIC IN THE P ARK, A UGUST— C HATFIELD W ESTERN D AYS C ELEBRATION

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES—

14 I Chatfield, MN A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Chatfield, MN I 15

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available for more experienced riders. For a quieter pace, the golf club offers a fun, 9-hole regulation course of 5,866 yards for a par of 35. Not a golfer? Take a few relaxing laps at the swimming pool or play a few matches at the city tennis courts. Chatfield is also widely known for its arts and unique historical offerings. Dubbed “Bandtown, USA,” the city boasts a music lending library, the only one of its kind in the world today. Dedicated to the preservation of musical heritage and utilized by musicians worldwide, the library has collected and cataloged more than 30,000 pieces, many of which are no longer in print. The city is home to the Chatfield Brass Band, a harmonic tradition for nearly a half century. Its more than 30 members, of all ages, play a variety of music in an effort to provide opportunities for amateur musicians to perform and grow musically and to continue the city’s proud custom. The Chatfield Center for the Arts furthers the progress of arts in the area through both music and drama. Thursday evenings in the summer, the city hosts the Music in the Park Concert series in the city park, highlighting the impressive bandshell. The square also plays host to an interactive and engaging custom playground. Folk and other concerts are held throughout the year, across the street at the center for the arts, and showcase the musical styling of various artists and open jam sessions. As part of the center for the arts is the Potter Auditorium. Built in the 1930s, the landmark has been fully restored. History enthusiasts won’t want to miss touring the two museums offered by the Chatfield Historical Society or the

legendary Haven Stone Wall. Bordering on Old Territorial Road on Winona Hill, the wall, which began in 1927, taking 37 years to complete, features 157 notable artifacts and geological phenomena from around the world, all embedded within the limestone wall. Several community celebrations are held annually, including Chillfest, the fourth Saturday in January, Veteran’s Ice Fishing, the fourth Saturday in February, Trout Classic fishing tournament, the Saturday closest to April 15, and the Fall Festival of Color, the first Saturday in October. The granddaddy of them all is Western Days on the second weekend in August, with a market, carnival, parades, concerts, dances, fireworks, a horse show, trail rides, and the Wit’s End Theatre’s Western Days Show.

Todd Hadoff, GRI Cell: 507-259-5454 Email: homes@toddhadoff.com Website: www.ToddHadoff.com

REMAX Results

Funding Generations

of Success

Since 1856

221 Main St. S • Chatfield, MN • 507-564-2019 www.bicknberry.com • info@bicknberry.com We offer today's fashions at affordable prices! You can shop anytime by visiting our website or stopping by to see the store! CHATFIELD, MN

rrsbchatfield.com

Thursday 1-7pm • Friday 1-6pm • Saturday 9am-2pm

Closed Sunday - Wednesday

16 I Chatfield, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

HUNTING  FISHING  CAMPING TWO STORY ARCHERY RANGE APPAREL  PROSHOP

Chatfield, MN

507-867-4399

chatfield center for the arts

& the historic Potter Auditorium

Where the Music is Intimate

And Youth Find Their Voice

Alongside Big City Talent

405 Main St S | 507.884.7676

chatfieldarts.org

Chatfield, MN I 17

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Natural Unpaved Trail

www.bluffcountryhikingclub.org

507-867-1640 • 251St N MAIN ST 251 N maiN

ChaTfield, CHATFIELD,MinnesoTa MINNESOTA WWW.52BOTTLESHOP.COM

November 24 • 11am 10%a break OFF WITH A MILITARY IDusEVERY DAY Take from shopping and join to sample Bloody Marys and mimosas (with a twist)!!

ASK ABOUT Shop local! IX! PICK SSupport OURlocal, We look forWard To serving you!!

Lost Creek Hiking Trail is about 6.35 miles long one way. It is located West of Chatfield with parking access at Groen Park Trailhead (Co. Rd. 2) and at the Ninebark Road Trailhead (Co. Rd. 101).

STOP IN FOR OUR GREAT WEEKLY SPECIALS

SOUTHERN MINNESOTA’S BEST SELECTION Hiking & Snowshoe Only

WE LOOK FORWARD TO SERVING YOU!

Open Daily 7:00am - 9:00pm

118 MAIN ST S • CHATFIELD, MN • 507-867-0089

BURGERS & FRIES BATTERED FISH & FRIES Available on Friday nights

OPEN BOWLING CALL FOR AVAILABILITY

ENJOY OUR OUTSIDE PATIO

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

507-867-4272 237 main St. north Chatfield, MN

Full Service GrOcery StOre

www.sunshinefoodstores.com

18 I Chatfield/Fountain, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

NAPA Auto PArts

NAPA Auto Parts Chatfield Parts House

103 1/2 Division St NW, Chatfield • (507) 867-4200 Hours: Monday-Friday 8am - 6pm Saturday 8am - 3pm Sunday 10am - 1pm

Fountain, MN

ountain is the western gateway to the Root River State Trail, a 60-mile route that encompasses 42-miles of former Milwaukee Railroad bed, winding along the Root River. The quaint town not only marks the beginning of the number one rated trail in Minnesota, but is hailed as the “Sinkhole Capital of the USA.” This prevailing geographical feature, created by the karst topography, lends to rolling hills and deep-cut valleys of the area, on which this unique trail system resides. Sitting atop the valley, the Fountain sink holes are revealed in numerous caverns and underground waterways, carved throughout the limestone bedrock. Just as the bedrock has formed the landscape, the history of the area culture was formed by the colorful people who settled here. The Fillmore County History Center and The Emery & Almeda Eickhoff Genealogy Library highlight the heritage, long-held economics, and occasionally the peculiarities of the area. Comprised of four buildings, an 1860s log cabin, and a restored oneroom schoolhouse, the complex is simply astounding. “County museums can be dull, but not this one,” states travel site Roadside America. Over 15,000 antiques, collectibles, and memorabilia are preserved within and each with a story, including an iron padlock over a thousand years old, which legend has it belonged to Leif Ericson CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

Fountain Welcomes You “Sinkhole Capital of the U.S.A.”

The most dominant landform in this area is the sinkhole. These “holes” can be seen in and around Fountain, many have been filled or modified in size and shape. Sinkholes, caves and caverns form in the limestone bedrock that lies immediately beneath the fertile soil. A sinkhole can be viewed at the entrance to the city of Fountain Fountain is the western gateway for the Root River State Trail. (Hwy. 52) near the welcome sign. There is also a viewing platform near the Root River Trail Head.

FOUNTAIN TOWN CELEBRATIONS

June 21 & 22 July 27 September 14 October 5 December 14 December 14 For more information, call or write:

60 Mile Garage Sales Fountain 150th Anniversary Celebration Taste of the Trail Fountain Lutheran Church Lutefisk & Meatball Dinner Fountain United Methodist Women’s Bake & Craft Sale & Luncheon, Fountain Community Center Santa comes to Fountain & Children and Adult Drawings Fountain Community Center

City of Fountain, P.O. Box 115 • Fountain, MN 55935 507-268-4923 • http://fountainmn.org

Fountain, MN I 19

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Spring Valley CheVrOlet BuiCk

Cold Beer. Delicious Food.

Sales • Service • Parts • Body Shop • Towing

Service With a Smile.

CheCk Out Our COlliSiOn Center!

Enjoy dining out the way it was meant to be.

Oh, Deer!

Daily Food & Drink Specials Bikers & Bicyclists Welcome

Tail !

neVer fear... We Can fix it!

507-346-7337

120 E. GranT STrEET • SPrinG VallEy, Mn 55975

www.SPrinGVallEychEVyBuick.coM

SAVE THE DATE Fountain's 150th Sesquicentennial Celebration July 27, 2019

98 Main St., Fountain, MN • 507-268-4464

Karst Brewing 315 1st Street I Fountain, MN

Hours: Friday 3pm-10pm Saturday 12pm-10pm Sunday 12pm-5pm www.karstbrewed.com 612-747-6367 Owners: Eric and Sandy Luoma

Check our FB or website for extended holiday hours/special events

Karst Brewing @KarstBrewed

There's always a reason to stop at Karst - to relax after biking, grab a growler for the campfire, or just for some fun!

20 I Fountain, MN

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

the Viking. Another notable exhibit includes the 1932 Model T Sky Scout and a 1947 Air Camper, both built by famed aviator Bernard H. Pietenpol, the “Grandfather of Experimental Aircraft.” The museum’s extensive collection is also comprised as one of Minnesota’s largest collections of antique agricultural equipment, showcasing a restored collection of 36 Oliver tractors, rare handmade wooden tools, automobiles, and oddities. The Bue Photography Collection, by 1900s Fillmore County Photographer Mathias O. Bue, is another museum treasure. Bue’s work is “a virtual historical picture book that provides a glimpse of a period, places, and people that exist now only in memory and literature.” The comprehensive genealogy library is acclaimed as one of the best organized and extensive local history libraries in the State of Minnesota. City Park is just a stone’s throw from the museum complex. Here visitors will find picnic shelters, restrooms, ball fields, basketball and volleyball courts, and a playground. Dining options include homemade pizza and pie in a cozy, café atmosphere and a bar and grill serving American cuisine and providing entertainment. Thirsty? Stop in for refreshments at the brewery just around the corner. Abundant family farms fill the landscape surrounding Fountain and are a sustaining feature of the community. The city will celebrate its 150th anniversary on July 27, 2019, with a big celebration for all to enjoy!

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

The Fillmore CounTy hisTory CenTer tart Near the Siver of Root R l Bike Trai

Now SaTuRopeN dayS! - oliver Tractor Collection - antique agricultural Equipment - Sinkhole Exhibit

museum & GenealoGy library

- Willie’s grocery Exhibit - Country School House - pietenpol Hangar & aircraft

HoURS: TUESday THRoUgH SaTURday 9aM - 4pM US #52 & County Road #8, Fountain, MN (507) 268-4449

EMail: fchc@frontier.com • WEb: http://fillmorecountyhistory.wordpress.com/ please check our website calendar for summer events!

Pie & Ice Cream

2 Medium, 2 Topping

PIzzas

and a 2 Liter Pop

Made from scratch

soup specials Phone: 507-268-4406 • Corner of 1st & Main ~ 99 Main St., Fountain, MN Sunday 11-8, Monday Closed, Tues.-Thurs. 11-8; Fri. & Sat. 11-9 STop in For noon SpecialS! Tuesday: Turkey Dinner • Wednesday: Roast Pork Dinner Thursday: Hot Beef or Meatballs • Friday: Pizza by the Slice Saturday: Chicken-n-Biscuits

Funding generations of success

Since 1901

fsbfountain.com

Harmony, MN I 21

www.visitbluffcountry.com

he first thing people notice about the city of Harmony is its pleasant name. Local legend says that the settlers decided to make their community an incorporated “village” and met to choose a name. Each group wanted the town named for its leader, and the bickering became louder. Finally the chairman banged his gavel on the table and said, “Let’s have Harmony here!” Today, visitors to Harmony can take an Amish tour, visit the magnificent Niagara Cave, and ride or walk on the HarmonyPreston Valley State Trail, which connects Harmony to the Root River Trail System. Like many small towns a hundred years ago, Harmony developed near the railroad, and was peopled by immigrants from Norway, Germany, and Ireland. That pioneer spirit has survived in the descendants of those hardy settlers as Harmony continues to serve the farming and business communities. The symbolism of the town’s name took on new meaning with the arrival of Amish families to the area in 1974. Today the Amish community consists of over 100 families and is concentrated in the areas around Harmony and Canton. With their old-world farming methods, the Amish offer a stark contrast to the modern machinery and tall silos of their neighbors, while reminding tourists and residents alike of the lifestyle of our ancestors. Visit the homes and farms of the Amish families living around Harmony. A local business offers car and group tours of the Amish settlement. View fine Amish craftsmanship and purchase Amish goods, such as baked goods, baskets, wood crafts, candy, quilts, and more. While traveling through the beautiful farm country, learn about the history and beliefs of the Amish community and how their lifestyle differs from modern ways, while

giving us all a glimpse of how our own ancestors lived and farmed in bygone days. The area is blessed with rolling hills and valleys, fertile soil for growing crops, and plenty of water in springs and brooks. Niagara Cave, a natural result of the area’s karst geology, is an underground wonderland, millions of years in the making. It was discovered under a sinkhole and was explored and developed over the years as local residents turned the cave into a well-known tourist attraction. Niagara Cave has been in continous development and operation for 80 years and is now fully run by solar energy. One-hour guided tours offer a chance to thrill at nature’s beauty, including a 60-foot waterfall, the crystal “wedding chapel,” huge stalactites and rock formations that took millions of years to form, all far below the earth’s surface. The cave stays a constant 48 degrees year round and offers a 10-acre picnic ground and a miniature golf course. The Harmony Area Historical Society has developed a karst geological interpretive site as an educational tool for both local residents and visitors to the area. An observation deck with interpretive signage allows visitors to view a sinkhole, learn about how it was formed, and why it is important to our environment. The area has some of the finest trout streams in the state, river canoeing with rentals available, snowmobile and cross-country trails, and outsanding hunting for wild turkey, upland game birds, deer, and small game. The Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail connects Harmony to the Root River Trail System, and encompasses over 60 miles of recreational trail. The trail leaves Harmony and passes a variety of CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

The theater comes to you!

jemmovies.com

Current movies at yesteryears prices

Friday 7:30 • Saturday 4:00 and 7:30 • Sunday 4:00 and 7:30

Birthday Parties made easy at the Jem Watch a movie or play video games on the big screen!

NOW OFFERING...

Birthday Packages

Call 507-676-5456 to book your party today!

We provide:

16'x8' screen (16'x12' frame) Speakers Projector Concessions (sold separately) Set up and tear down

You provide: Electricity The Movie

Available Monday through Thursday and occasional weekends. Price starts at $250

Call to book! 507-676-5456 MAIN STREET HARMONY, MN

22 I Harmony, MN

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

wooded areas and large panoramic views of rolling hills, springfed creeks and farm sites. The Harmony Trailhead features a park area complete with picnic shelter, playground, a disc golf course, and visitor information center. Bike rental is available in the area. Interpretive signage has been provided by the Harmony Area Historical Society throughout the business district. Also, enjoy the carved musicians now dotting the Harmony business district. Harmony also has a nine-hole golf course, one of a dozen in the area which offer an almost endless variety of terrain as well as reasonable fees and uncrowded courses. Overnight visitors can choose from guesthouses or a 24-room motel with a meeting room. A variety of dining options can be found in Harmony, as well. Campers may find a comfortable place in Harmony’s municipal campground or one of several private campgrounds in the area. Harmony offers the shopper many unique and interesting alternatives. For fine hand-crafted Amish quilts, furniture and other items, country crafts, period antiques, and gifts for the spirit, you need go no further than Harmony’s business district. On Harmony’s north edge you will find an antique mall with over 100 vendors, an Amish furniture store, and a floral and greenhouse business. Another claim to fame for Harmony is that it is home to Fillmore County’s only movie theater, which shows current movies and serves delicious popcorn with real butter.

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Harmony Golf Club

507-886-5622 • 545 4th St NE • Harmony, MN

9-HOLE GOLF COURSE No tee times required

Check out our website for more information!

www.harmonygolfclub.com

JOIN HERE!

TUESDAY Women’s Day 12:00pm - 6:00pm

(Cart Rental Required)

THURSDAY Men’s Day 12:00pm - Dark

Play 12 Area Golf Courses for FREE

Special Rates for first year members!

Will Deliver Anywhere

Open 7 days a week Mon. - Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4 Owner: Reuben Hershberger

www.visitbluffcountry.com

HARMONY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 2019 EVENTS HARMONY AREA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION SWING INTO SPRING BENEFIT Saturday, April 6 ECFE EASTER EGG HUNT Saturday, April 20 ROOT RIVER TRAIL TOWNS 60 MILE GARAGE SALE Friday, June 21 and Saturday June 22

Harmony, MN I 23

WELCOME TO HARMONY!

Tours, shopping and recreational opportunities await you in this active Southeastern Minnesota town. Tour our local Amish Community or Niagara Cave. Enjoy excellent restaurants, antiquing, unique gift shops, comfortable lodging and 60 miles of paved Bike Trail. Enjoy beautiful city parks, and a wide array of great service businesses ready to serve your every need. Contact us for your FREE Harmony Guide at 1-877-886-2469 or on the web at www.exploreharmony.com

more info at rootrivertrail.org

HARMONYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION Thursday, July 4 - Sunday July 7 CUSTOMER APPRECIATION SUPPER & NATIONAL NIGHT OUT Tuesday, August 6 HARMONY'S TASTE OF THE TRAIL Saturday September 14

More info at rootrivertrail.org

FALL FOLIAGE WEEKEND Friday, Oct 4-Sunday Oct 6 HAUNTED HARMONY WEEKEND Saturday, October 19 MONSTER BASH HAUNTED HOUSE Oct. 17-20, Oct. 24-27, Oct. 31 HOLIDAY FEST ART, CRAFT & GIFT EXPO Saturday, November 23 SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY Saturday, November 30 BREAKFAST WITH SANTA TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY AT SELVIG PARK Saturday, December 7

WWW.EXPLOREHARMONY.COM

24 I Harmony, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Amish Tours of Harmony Located in the Sugar Plum House at the Village Green 94 2nd St. NW

1 Block West of Main Ave • Harmony, MN Open April-Dec. Mon.-Sat. 9am-5pm Sun. 11am-4pm

Experience a lifestyle

* where the horse & buggy still provide the transportation * the home is lighted by kerosene lamps * water is heated on a woodburning stove

School Quilt Shop Largest selection of Amish-made Quilts & Quilted Items in Minnesota! 507-886-2409 Clothing • Tableware

• Amish Backroads Tour • Table Linens • Amish Gifts & Furniture • Furniture • Curios • Scarves • Bags • Gourmet Foods • Cabin Decor • Baby Gifts • Jewelry • Children’s Books • Christmas Year-Round • Willow Tree

• Van Tours • Car Tours • Group Bus Tour • Spring through Fall • Winter Tours by appointment • No Sunday Tours

Enjoy an exciting tour with one of our knowledgeable guides.

103 Main Ave N., Harmony

507-886-2979

For Advanced Tickets & Information 507-886-2303 or 800-752-6474 www.amish-tours.com

Triple - M - Furniture Emma Miller

Open Year d n Rou

you will find solid hardwood kitchen -n- dining room furniture, including tables, chairs, benches, barstools, hutches, buffets, plus occasional tables, gliders, mixed wood cutting boards and lazy susans, plaques, and much more! 13222 us 52 | Harmony, MN 55939 Located: 2-1/2 miles E. of Harmony on Hwy 52

Quality Hardwood Furniture siNcE 1985

Hours: Monday - Saturday: 8 aM - 6 pM | CloSed Sunday

Harmony, MN I 25

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Chef/Owner Matt Brown

Select Properties

Servicing all of Catering Available

Outdoor seating & Private party room available. A neighborhood eatery featuring: • craft beers • farm to table • wine and cocktails, as well • scratch kitchen • seasonal fresh menu • handmade pasta “...freshness is evident in every qualityladen, deliriously delicious bite.” – Rick Nelson, Mpls. Star Tribune - Burger Friday Column, Oct. 2015

121 Main Ave N. • 507-886-1234 www.estelleseatery.com

Hours: Wed-Thurs: 11am-8pm • Fri-Sat: 11am-9pm

SOUTHEAST MINNESOTA & NORTHEAST IOWA! Whether your looking for a get-a-way or planning a Permanent stay, as the local experts our team is key In finding you the property that’s right for you.

Residential, Acreages, Agricultural, New Construction

Roxanne Johnson Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI 507-458-6110 Roxanne@harmonytel.net

Kelsey Bergey GRI 507-251-0281 Kelsey@harmonytel.net

RE/ MAX Select Properties 25 W. Center St Harmony MN 55939 Open week days, call our cell phones for evenings and weekend appointments. Each office independently owned & operated.

Office: 507-886-4221 • www.SEMNrealestate.com

EAT I RELAX I ENJOY YOU’RE ALWAYS WELCOME! 55 Center St. W Harmony, MN 507-886-2225 myharmonyfoods.com Monday-Saturday 7am-9pm Sunday 8am-7pm

26 I Harmony, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Harmony, MN I 27

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Family Dining

The tranquility of Japan in a private luxurious accommodation...

RMONY A H H OUS E RESTAURANT

Open Daily

ASAHI LOFT

Marty & Wilma Hochstetler

255 5TH St. SE โ ข Harmony, MN Quality Furniture in 507-226-3735 Marty Handcrafted &โ ข www.asahiloft.com Wilma Hochstetler

1/4 sawn White Oak - Red Oak Quality Handcrafted Furniture Cherry - Walnut- Maple and in Main Ave. N. Harmony, MN ~ 507-886-4612 Marty &&Wilma Hochstetler Mailing Address: Marty Wilma Hochstetler 1/4 sawn White Oak - Red Oak other Wood Species 21476 10th St. Cherry - Walnut- Maple and in Serving Breakfast Quality Handcrafted Furniture Quality Handcrafted Furniture in 24852 Klondike Road โ ข Harmony, MN 55939 Mailing Address: Lansing, IA 52155 other Wood Species & Lunch 1/4 sawn White Oak Red Oak 1/4 sawn White Oak Red Oak 21476 10th St. โ ข Harmony, MN 55939 Homemade Cherry - Road WalnutMaple and Cherry - WalnutMaple and Lansing, IA 52155 24852 Klondike Mailing Address: Rolls, Pies Mailing Address: Completely Amish Owned & Operated other Wood Species other Wood Species & Pastries 21476 10th St.St. 21476 10th Klondike Road โ ข Harmony, MN 55939 24852 Klondike Road โ ข Harmony, MN 55939 Lansing, IAIA 52155 Lansing, 52155 24852

ยน6[iZg &* nZVgh d[ WjâY^c\ [jgcîjgZ Vi djg daY adXV" Completely Amish Owned & Operated FREE PIE i^dc! lZ ]VkZ bdkZY _jhi iZc b^cjiZh hdji]lZhi d[ Wednesdays ยน6[iZg &* nZVgh d[ WjâY^c\ [jgcîjgZ Vi djg daY adXV" =Vgbdcn# AdXViZY _jhi dc i]Z lZhi h^YZ d[ <gVc\Zg! Amish Completely Amish Owned&&Operated Operated i^dc! lZ ]VkZ bdkZY _jhi iZc b^cjiZh hdji]lZhi d[ BC! lZ Completely VgZ cZhiaZY ^c V Owned WZVji^[ja hedi Vadc\ i]Z DAILY =Vgbdcn# AdXViZY _jhi dc i]Z lZhi h^YZ d[ <gVc\Zg! JeeZg >dlV G^kZg# :c_dn i]Z hXZcZgn VcY iV`Z V ยน6[iZg &* nZVgh d[ WjâY^c\ [jgcîjgZ Vi djg daY adXV" ยน6[iZg &* nZVgh d[ WjâY^c\ [jgcîjgZ Vi djg daY adXV" SPECIALS Private^c BedV & Breakfast BC! lZ VgZ cZhiaZY WZVji^[ja hedi Vadc\ i]Z hiZe WVX` ^c i^bZ Vh ndj h]de [dg [jgcîjgZ ^c bVcn i^dc! lZ ]VkZ bdkZY _jhi iZc b^cjiZh hdji]lZhi d[ i^dc! lZ ]VkZ bdkZY _jhi iZc b^cjiZh hdji]lZhi d[ Open Sun. thru Sat. Accommodation JeeZg >dlV G^kZg# :c_dn i]Z hXZcZgn VcY iV`Z V 5:00am-1:30pm hinaZh lddY heZX^Zh! [dg Vaa VgZVh d[ i]Z ]dbZ#ยบ =Vgbdcn# AdXViZY _jhi dc i]Z lZhi h^YZ d[ <gVc\Zg! =Vgbdcn# AdXViZY _jhi dc i]Z lZhi h^YZ d[ <gVc\Zg! Inn Keepers: hiZe WVX` ^c i^bZ Vh ndj h]de [dg [jgcîjgZ ^c bVcn Check us out at www.eatatharmonyhouse.com BC! lZ VgZ cZhiaZY WZVji^[ja BC! lZ VgZ cZhiaZY ^c V V WZVji^[ja hedi hedi Vadc\ Vadc\ i]Z i]Z Cindy ^c & Doug Ofstedal hinaZh lddY heZX^Zh! [dg Vaa VgZVh d[ i]Z ]dbZ#ยบ JeeZg >dlV G^kZg# :c_dn i]Z hXZcZgn VcY iV`Z JeeZg >dlV G^kZg# :c_dn i]Z hXZcZgn VcY iV`Z V V Specializing in hiZe WVX` ^c i^bZ Vh ndj h]de [dg [jgcîjgZ ^c bVcn hiZe WVX` ^c i^bZ Vh ndj h]de [dg [jgcîjgZ ^c bVcn Bedroom & Dining hinaZh lddY heZX^Zh! [dg Vaa VgZVh d[ i]Z ]dbZ#ยบ hinaZh lddY heZX^Zh! [dg Vaa VgZVh d[ i]Z ]dbZ#ยบ Specializing in

ย 9^c^c\ 7ZYgddb ;jgcîjgZ 8]V^gh! GdX`Zgh <a^YZgh EaVci HiVcYh 8ZYVg 8]Zhih ย =jiX]Zh 8ZYVg 8]Zhih ย =jiX]Zh 7ZcX]Zh ย H]ZakZh Completely Amish Owned & Operated Fjâih ย <^[i >iZbh 8d[[ZZ :cY IVWaZh 8d[[ZZ :cY IVWaZh EaVci HiVcYh More " โ After 15 years of building furniture8]V^gh! GdX`Zgh <a^YZgh at8]V^gh! GdX`Zgh <a^YZgh our " Much old location, we Fjâih ย <^[i >iZbh 8jhidb HeZX^Va DgYZgh have moved just ten minutes southwest of Harmony. located 7ZcX]Zh ย H]ZakZh 7ZcX]Zh ย H]ZakZh just on the west side of Granger, mn we are nestled in a Specializing " Much More " 6kVâVWaZ EaVci HiVcYh EaVci HiVcYh beautiful spot along the upper Iowa River. enjoy the scenery 8jhidb HeZX^Va DgYZgh in 1/4 sawn Fjâih ย <^[i >iZbh and take a step back in time as you shop for furniture in Fjâih ย <^[i >iZbh white oak 6kVâVWaZ many styles & wood species, for all areas of the home.โ " Much More " " Much More " 8jhidb HeZX^Va DgYZgh 8jhidb HeZX^Va DgYZgh in 1/4 - Dining & Bedroom FurnitureSpecializing 6kVâVWaZ 6kVâVWaZ Cedar Chests โ ข Hutches Specializing in

sawn white Specializing inoak 1/4 & Dining Room Furniture sawn Bedroom white oak Specializing Specializinginin1/4 1/4 sawn sawnwhite whiteoak oak

Coffee & End Tables Chairs, Rockers & Gliders Benches โ ข Shelves โ ข Plant Stands Quilts โ ข Gift Items * Custom Orders * AlSo CuStom kItCHen CABInetS

Hwy 139

1/4 sawn White Oak8]V^gh! GdX`Zgh <a^YZgh - Red Oak Cherry 8d[[ZZ :cY IVWaZh Walnut- Maple and other Wood Species 7ZcX]Zh ย H]ZakZh ย 9^c^c\ 7ZYgddb ;jgc^ijgZ

Hwy 63

Room Furniture Bedroom & Dining Specializing Specializinginin Room 21476 10th St. โ ขย 9^c^c\ 7ZYgddb ;jgc^ijgZ Lime Springs,Furniture IA 52155 Bedroom &&Dining Bedroom Dining 8ZYVg 8]Zhih ย =jiX]Zh Marty & Wilma Hochstetler ย 9^c^c\ 7ZYgddb ;jgc^ijgZ 8d[[ZZ :cY IVWaZh Room Furniture Room Furniture Quality Handcrafted Furniture in 8ZYVg 8]Zhih ย =jiX]Zh

looking Glass Prairie Furniture

28 I Harmony, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Antique Mall Over 130 Booths & 10,000 square feet: Antiques • Farmhouse • Vintage Amish goods • Collectibles Farm toys • Tools • Coins Glassware • Dishes Vintage Linens • Books and much more!

50 Industrial Blvd. NE Harmony, MN 55939

VOted Best Antique Open Daily 10am - 5pm Handicap Accessible www.generationsofharmony.com shOpping!

HARMONY GARDENS & FLORAL OPEN MONDAY-SATURDAY

625 MAIN AVE N • 507-886-4866

OPEN YEAR ROUND!

D Flower and gift shop D Greenhouse bedding plants D Seasonal fresh produce D Wide variety of metal art and pottery D Perennial gardens, including thousands of daylilies!

507-886-6660

NOW SELLING MINNESOTA STATE LOTTERY

Pam’s Off Sale

Liquor Harmony, MN

NOW SELLING MINNESOTA STATE LOTTERY TICKETS

NICE SELECTION OF WINE~~BEER~~LIQUOR ES W PRIC AGES O L Y A R D EVERY ORITE BEVE V UR FA ON YO

MONDAY-SATURDAY 10AM - 9PM SUNDAY 11AM – 6PM

PHONE: 507-886-7949

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Harmony, MN I 29

HARMONY CUSTOM KITCHENS SPECIALIZING IN CUSTOM BUILT CABINETRY

Quality • Craftmanship • Durability

FREE TRASH PULL-OUT WITH QUALIFYING ORDER

LEROY & JOE GINGERICH 6 Miles West of Harmony on Hwy 44, then right on Cty. 15, 1st driveway on the right & south side of road

FREE Estimates

12990 County Road 15 Harmony, MN

VOTE FOR THE

BE A VBC WINNER!

BEST OF THE BEST AND WIN A

GREEN MOUNTAIN GRILL

V I S I T B L U F F C O U N T RY. C O M / T H E B E S T

OPEN: MON-SAT 9AM-5PM

Complete the online ballot and you'll be entered into a drawing for one of the grand prizes.

Only businesses and organizations represented in this Visit Bluff Country Magazine will be eligible for BEST of the BEST Awards selection.

30 I Harmony, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Beaver Creek Valley State Park

Nestled in the blufflands of southeastern Minnesota, Beaver Creek Valley State Park is known for its clear streams fed by the “Big Spring.” Its streams are home to brown and native brook trout. In spring, wildflowers that blanket the woodland hills and valleys attract migratory songbirds like the rare Acadian flycatcher, Cerulean warbler, and Louisiana waterthrush. A hiking trail meanders along the stream and up into a maple-basswood and oak forest. Campers are lulled to sleep by the murmuring stream. Wildlife The great diversity of plant species contributes to a great diversity of wildlife. Deer, raccoon, muskrat, mink, badger, red and gray fox, an occasional beaver, and wild turkey may be spotted in the park. If you encounter one, please leave it alone; they present little threat to the visitor. Birdwatchers flock to the park to see the treasured Acadian flycatcher and the Louisiana waterthrush. History Historically, the area attracted European settlers because of rich agricultural soils, hardwoods and the many streams that made mill-

ing possible. Archaeological surveys indicate that the valley was once an Indian village site. Geology The park is situated in one of the most interesting geologic areas in Minnesota, the “driftless area.” The area covers 10,000 square miles in adjoining parts of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Illinois, which were untouched by the most recent glacial advances. However, as the glaciers receded, torrents of meltwater poured into streams and rivers, carving deep rugged valleys. Landscape It is a nature lover’s paradise because of the diversity of natural communities. Bottomland hardwoods such as black ash, willow, box elder, cottonwood, and elm grow in the valley while a mix of maple, walnut, basswood and oak thrive above the valley. Small patches of native prairie and oak savanna occupy some of the south and west-facing slopes in the park. Getting There From I-90, take State Highway 76 south for 24 miles, then take Houston County 1 west for 4 miles.

Unique IH Collectibles Toys, Clothing & More

HAMMELL EQUIPMENT 330 North Main, Harmony, MN

507-886-2255 • www.hammellequipment.com

Houston, MN I 31

www.visitbluffcountry.com

mid the valleys in Bluff Country lies Houston, the eastern trailhead of the Root River State Trail. Whether biking, in-line skating, or cross-country skiing on the trail, or canoeing, tubing, or swimming in the river, the area is teeming with adventure. Houston is also home to the International Owl Center, featuring live owls and educational programming. Held the first full weekend of March each year is the International Festival of Owls, an impressive celebration that includes live owl presentations, birding trips, contests, activities, and classes. At Trailhead Park, a wetland and levee planted in nature grasses and flowers invites visitors to explore the beauty of nature. The park also offers a picnic shelter, primitive campsites, public restrooms and showers, a band shell, and a creative and inspiring playground featuring a sand play area with buried fossils, hand water pump and log sluice, and stone tunnels and caves. The park is also home to the Houston Nature Center, where you’ll find a wide array of nature exhibits and educational programming for all ages. Houston boasts two ball fields, a public archery range, and full 18-hole courses surrounded by scenic bluffs. The Oak Ridge/Wet Bark DNR Recreation Area encompasses miles of hiking and horseback riding trails, mountain biking trails, and camping. Trails transform in winter for

Coffee Coffee && Espresso Espresso Drinks,Drinks, Baked Goods, Goods,& Baked Wraps Paninis, Sandwiches, Salads, Smoothies, & Salads, WrapsFruit Hot & Cold Sandwiches, Fruit Smoothies, Gifts, &CD’s, WiFi Gifts,

110 N. Grant Street Houston, MN

& Used Books WiFi PrivatE GarDEn GARDEN PRIVATE 507.896.JAVA

cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Just south of town, you can take in a stone church built in 1855 by natural stone quarried off nearby hills. Further down Highway 76, visitors can marvel at Schech’s Mill, a working three-story mill of native stone, built in 1876. It is the only original water-powered mill in Minnesota and still boasts original equipment. North of town, visitors can tour two impressive big game farms by appointment; an elk farm and the ranch home of Cody the Buffalo II, where visitors can purchase bison, Scottish Highlander, and wild boar meat, and one-ofa-kind collectibles. Houston boasts several other distinctive shops, including a beautiful wheel-thrown and hand-created functional stoneware and porcelain pottery shop. Houston hosts several festivals: the Root River Triathlon, two Southeast Minnesota Bluegrass Association Festivals, the Apollo Music Festival, outdoor summer concerts, and on the last full weekend of July, Houston Hoedown Days transforms the town into a celebration filled with trail rides, tractor pulls, the Minnesota State Horse Pull, nightly dances, and more! Dining opportunities include a charming coffee house, pizza and ice cream, a bar and grill, and a food co-op. Staying in Houston? Lodging is available, ranging from spirited and western to scenic and secluded to a more traditional inn.

Houston, Minnesota 507-896-OWLS (6957) InternationalOwlCenter.org

Admission

Adults: $7 / Ages 4–17: $4 Ages 3 and under: Free

Summer hours

EXPERIENCEOWLS

UP CLOSE

Memorial Day–Labor Day Fri/Sat/Sun/Mon: 10 AM–5 PM Call or check our website for winter hours and live owl programs

ANDPERSONAL Convenience & Service all through the Root River Valley

Houston bp Food Shop ●Daily Food Specials & Salad Bar Monday-Friday ●Award Winning Burgers! ●On & Off Sale Selections ●Wi-Fi Available 125 E Cedar St. Houston MN 507.896.3232

• • • • • • •

Hot Foods & Deli Convenience Store Movie Rentals Lottery Tickets Pay-At-Pump 24/7 Diesel Fuel LP Exchange

Hunting/fishing license & Game Registration

on Highway 16 East, Houston (507) 896-3000

Locally owned and operated by S&A Petroleum

32 I Houston, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Bike rides on the Root River State Trail Discover the dramatic river carved blufflands of southeastern Minnesota. The Root River State Trail is a multiple use trail covering over 50 miles, through the quaint and picturesque rural communities of Fountain, Lanesboro, Whalan, Peterson, Rushford and Houston. This asphalt trail was mainly constructed upon an abandoned railroad grade that is generally level and wheelchair accessible. Newly paved in 1999, the eastern segment between Money Creek Woods and Houston is relatively more challenging than the western segment with a rather steep, half-mile segment that may not be suitable for all users. Bicycling, in-line skating, and hiking are the main summer uses of the trail. Cross country skiing is popular in the winter. The Fillmore and Houston county Grants-in-Aid (GIA) trail system, which provides many miles of groomed snowmobile trails in the area, intersects briefly with the Root River State Trail. The Root River State Trail provides outstanding views of the soaring limestone bluffs of the Root River Valley. Wildlife is abundant and sightings of wild turkey, deer, hawks and turkey vultures are common. Rattlesnakes, a state threatened and protected species, are occasionally found on rock outcrops, along the river bottoms, or sunning themselves on the trail. They should be left alone.

Historical buildings and rural communities along the trail provide sites of interest to trail users. They also provide many services. Campgrounds, bed and breakfasts, inns, resorts, restaurants, museums, outfitters and unique stores are found in many of the trail towns. Parking • Fountain: From Highway 52 take County Road 8 about one mile to parking lot by city park/softball field. • Houston: Houston Nature Center, turn west on Plum Street off of Hwy 76, go one block. • Preston: Highway 52 to Fillmore St. (Co. Road 12), approximately 1/2 mile west to the parking lot. • Lanesboro: Parking along streets, at the parking lot by the Community Center and Sylvan Park. Overflow parking is at the Bass Pond. • Rushford: From Highway 16, turn north on Elm Street (State Hwy. 43), go one block west. Parking lot is by old depot. • Peterson: From Highway 16, turn west onto Highway 25 (Mill St.) into town; turn south on Fillmore St. to city park/ campground. • Whalan: On the streets downtown near the Whalan City Park. Nearby DNR recreational areas Forestville State Park, Beaver Creek Valley State Park, Root River Canoe & Boating Route, R.J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest, Rushford Sand Barrerns S.N.A., Harmony - Preston Valley State Trail.

Nestled iN the beautiful bluffs of southeasterN MiNNesota

A piece of heAven on eArth

Trails & riding EquinE Lodging & Boarding

Country venue for weddings, receptions, reunions & more! 5 Miles From the Root River Bike Trail, Canoing & Fishing

overnight CamPing

• Primitive CamPing • Cabins • bunkhouses

wiTH elecTRical Hookups

40 miles of well-groomed private & state trails for horseback riding*, biking or hiking 300’x147’ outdoor arena Indoor stalls, and individual pens and pastures

www.outbackranch.net • Holly@outbackranch.net 7750 TT RD Houston, MN • 507.896.5550 opeN yeaR aRouND!

Connected to 100 miles of state snowmobile trails

*We do not rent out horses*

Lanesboro, MN I 33

www.visitbluffcountry.com

anesboro THE HEART OF BLUFF COUNTRY

Visitors Center  100 Milwaukee Rd, Lanesboro, MN lanesboro.com  507-467-2696

Come Play -Stay and Shop with Us!  Bike the paved Root River State Trail –

60-miles winding through picturesque valleys surrounded by limestone bluffs.

 Canoe, kayak, or ﬂoat down the Root River. Ideal for trout ﬁshing too!

 Applaud live professional theatre

delighting audiences for 30 years.

 Relax and refresh in lodging to ﬁt any taste. Lanesboro is the Bed and Breakfast Capital of Minnesota!

 Shop local merchants selling

everything from outdoor gear to ﬁne art, and women’s clothing.

 Eat at unique restaurants

featuring fresh locally grown food!

Lanesboro has cultivated the art of living well. Come and experience small town life at its best!

“We LOVE it here, we’ve made it our home and can’t wait to welcome you!”

ucked along the banks of the Root River in Southeast Minnesota, you’ll find a hidden gem — Historic Lanesboro, the Heart of Bluff Country. Take a relaxing drive on Highway 16, a National Scenic Byway, turn north on Highway 250, and you’ve arrived at the main street of Lanesboro, population 754. Park your car in the Poetry Parking Lot, next to the Art Car, and walk into town over a restored railroad bridge, the Coffee Street Walking Bridge. The parking lot is by the bass pond, which is fully-stocked by the DNR fish hatcheries nearby. Strolling down Lanesboro’s main street, Parkway Avenue is like a walk-through time. Well-preserved, it’s a snapshot of rural America a century ago. Architecture gracefully combines the old and new. Buildings built just a few years ago are neighbors with buildings over a hundred years old. Downtown is a landmark on the National Register of Historic Places. This town is alive with the arts, good food, easy access to the outdoors whose beauty rivals anywhere else, and history. In fact, you may even see a History Alive! Pop-up play - reenactments of Lanesboro history. You just never know what you’ll see in town. At the north end of town, the Commonweal Theatre, home to a professional theatre which, from March through December, entertains thousands of people every year with a rotating repertory of comedies, dramas, musicals, classics and contemporary plays. Next door to the state-of-the-art Commonweal Theatre, is the St. Mane Theatre, run by Lanesboro Arts. This theater, one of the oldest buildings in town, provides a venue for the Lanesboro Community Theater, concerts, classes and Over the Back Fence, a variety show which has been in operation since 1994. On the second Friday, from March through November, Over the Back Fence showcases talented local cast, musicians and other guests. Each month features a new theme with music, skits, jokes, comedy, poems, and more. In addition to live theater, the recently renovated St. Mane Theatre presents the movies of local and regional independent filmmakers. Both theaters are part of the Lanesboro Arts Campus, a layered and memorable arts experience integrated into the fabric of Lanesboro that builds on, and is designed to enhance and connect, existing assets — the river, scenery, recreation, history, and downtown — while extending art into the community. By utilizing art, design, and history to maintain, strengthen, and link what’s unique and authentic about Lanesboro, stimulating economic growth and improving quality of life. Imagine shopping in the places where people have been CONTINUED ON PAGE 35

Create your own

#LanesboroMN story!

34 I Lanesboro, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

DOWNTOWN LANESBORO

LITTLE RIVER GENERAL STORE Bike Retail • Rental • Repair FUJI CROSSTOWN BIKES

NEW BIKES AT BEGINNING OF EACH SEASON E-ASSIST FAT TIRE BIKE!

CELEBRATING 32 YEARS IN LANESBORO!

507-467-2943 TUBE, RECUMBENT & BICYCLE RENTALS

BIRIA STEP THROUGH BIKE!

BICYCLE REPAIR/RENTAL

CANOE & KAYAK RENTALS

• BICYCLE SUPPLIES

Bags, Speedometers, Racks, Tubes, Tires, Etc....

• RECUMBENT (SINGLE & DOUBLE) SALES, RENTAL & ACCESSORIES • ELECTRIC-ASSIST BIKES • TERRA TRIKE RECUMBENTS • FAT TIRE BIKES • FAT TIRE TRIPODS • WORMS SOLD HERE • CHILDREN’S TRAIL-A-BIKES / KIDDIE KARTS / BIKES • WATER SHOES, T-SHIRTS, BIKE SHORTS AND ACCESSORIES

TUBE RENTALS

105 Coffee St. E, Lanesboro, MN • www.LRGeneralStore.net

www.visitbluffcountry.com

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33

shopping for generations. While the locally-owned shops don’t house a cobbler, they do still offer unique products and services, housed in the warm, welcoming Lanesboro downtown shops. Lanesboro is conveniently located in the middle of the nationally acclaimed Root River State Bike Trail, so it doesn’t matter which direction you choose to go. Ride on 60 miles of paved trails, following the river winding its way through woods, bluffs, farms and tiny towns. The trail runs right through the middle of town. After an enjoyable day of biking through Bluff Country, ride over to the shops and grab some gourmet cheese and a bottle of wine to enjoy at a splendidly restored bed and breakfast while you get ready to go out for dinner and the theater. Lanesboro is well known for its many lodging choices. You can choose to stay at a bed and breakfast, a cabin or an inn - practical, charming, historic, secluded, on the river. No matter where you stay, though, you will enjoy generous hospitality, and relaxing comfort. Some visitors would rather take a more leisurely trip down the river. Canoes, kayaks and tubes are available to rent in town. Top off your afternoon with some ice cream. At the center of town is the jewel of Lanesboro, green, tree-laden Sylvan Park. With a wonderful kid-approved playground, seven picnic shelters, tennis and basketball courts,

Lanesboro, MN I 35

two spring-fed ponds, a gazebo; this 12-acre park is the place to spend an hour or a whole day. The park is within sight of a waterfall flowing over the 1868 dam, providing the power for the electric power plant which has been generating power for almost 150 years. Countless activities are held here. On the first Saturday in June, the park hosts the famous Rhubarb Festival commemorating our status as the Rhubarb Capital of Minnesota as designated by the Minnesota state legislature. Later in the month, Art in the Park, southeast Minnesota’s longest running art festival, features 80+ art exhibitors, pie (including rhubarb, of course), music all day, all taking place in the dappled shade of the park’s stately trees. Once a year, the first weekend in August, the town celebrates Buffalo Bill Days, in recognition of the times when Buffalo Bill brought his famous Wild West show to town. The festival is so big, with so many activities, it takes three days to do it all. From volleyball tournaments to dancing, picnics to beer and brats, fireworks to the Grand Parade, this event has something for the whole family. Come visit! Discover a slower pace of life with no chain stores or fast food franchises, and the closest stoplight is 20 miles away. This quaint town site offers invigorating outdoor adventures, breathtaking views, rich artistic and cultural experiences, unique shopping, locally grown foods and find dining. Come see why visitors love Lanesboro and return year after year!

36 I Lanesboro, MN

Bluffscape Amish Tours

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

For reservations call

507-467-2577

Tours Daily April - October 10am & 1:30pm No Sundays or Religious Holidays Saturdays only in November

ReSeRvATiONS AT: Stone Mill Hotel & Suites 102 Beacon St. e, Lanesboro, MN

(507) 467-3070 bluffscape@hotmail.com

www.bluffscape.com

E2 BOUTIQUE

209 Parkway Ave N, Lanesboro s chinn@acegroup.cc

Gourmet Foods | Jams & Jellies | Jewelry

117 Parkway Ave N, Lanesboro

507-467-2994

105 Parkway ave n, lanesBoro, mn 507-886-2409

Affordable Trendy Fashions for all Ages

Lanesboro, MN I 37

www.visitbluffcountry.com

IM A GI NE...

708 Parkway Avenue South Lanesboro, MN 55949 1-800-944-2158 or 507-467-2158 www.ScanlanHouse.com ScanlanBB@aol.com

A much needed getaway, being pampered, surrounded by affordable luxury, soaking your stress away in an aromatic whirlpool bath, sipping champagne, watching the flicker of flames all to the tune of a romantic melody.

RECOGNIZED AS: • Top 10 Place To Wake Up In State of Minnesota • Top 15 B & B in USA With Friendliest Staff • A Most Romantic B&B (Fodors) • A Top 10 Great Place to Relax & Recharge

ALL GUEST ROOMS AND SUITES INCLUDE:

2-Person Whirlpools and or Fireplaces • AM/FM/CD Radio TV w/ Cable • Hairdryer • Private Bath • Complimentary Wi-Fi 24 Hour Coffee and Tea Service • Unique Victorian Accommodations

Searching for exquisitely appointed guest rooms and suites, inspired architecture, luxurious ambience and personal service par excellence: Let us Take You There! Celebrating our 34th Year! Open Year Round! Gift Certificates and Packages Available Complimentary Country Farm to Table multi-course breakfast

THIS SHOULDN’T BE YOUR IMAGINATION…IT SHOULD BE YOUR REALITY!

38 I Lanesboro, MN

Take the challenge.

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Root River

Outfitters FAmILy OwNEd & OpERATEd FOR OVER 20 yEARS!

Explore our high ropes.

www.rootriveroutfitters.com 101 Parkway Ave. S., Lanesboro, MN 55949 507-467-3400

Savor the view.

Zip back to earth.

TwO-FOR-TUESdAyS

Two tubes for the price of one, every Tuesday!

For individuals, families, groups.

CALL FOR RESERVATIONS! 28097 Goodview Drive, Lanesboro, MN

We Rent

Canoes • Tubes Kayaks • Bikes Find us on facebook.com/rootriveroutfitters

Lanesboro, MN I 39

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Come and Explore Bluff Country in God's Country in Southeast Minnesota! I grew up in Lanesboro and know the Bluff Country areas very well. If you are looking to buy or sell in this beautiful area, I would be honored to help you. I am a Veteran of the U.S. Navy serving in the Persian Gulf War and I promise to give the same commitment when you are ready to buy, sell or just need information on properties. Buyers Agent, Listing Agent Real Estate including: Existing Properties, Vacant Land, Farms, Commercial

“A stunningly beautiful campground in the heart of bluff country.” u

226 Sites (Tent, RV, Permanent)

RV sites with Full Hookups (electric, water & sewer)

Seasonal Sites with Full Hookups

5 unit hotel sleeps up to 22 guests

Tubing, Canoeing and Kayaking

Access to bike trail

On the Root River

Banquet Facility: seats 80 plus

35455 State Hwy 16 E, Lanesboro

507.467.2598 www.eagle-cliff.com

JOHN NELSON Cell 507.216.1140 JOHN.NELSON@CBBURNET.COM

40 I Lanesboro, MN

Lanesboro stage Line

LLC

Insured • 507.896.3337 • lanesborostagecoach.com

Convenience & Service all through the Root River Valley

Lanesboro bp Food Shop • • • • • • •

Hot Foods & Deli Convenience Store Movie Rentals Lottery Tickets Pay-At-Pump 24/7 Diesel Fuel LP Exchange

Locally owned and operated by S&A Petroleum

Hunting/fishing license & Game Registration 100 Sheridan St. on Highway 16 West, Lanesboro (507) 467-2121

ORGANIC

www.rootriverrodco.com Guide Service-Wade or drift Boat fly fiShinG expertS i apparel i BamBoo rod maker neW & vintaGe Gear i rod repair i fly tyinG 116 Parkway avenue north Lanesboro, Minnesota 507-467-2101

Select Properties

Servicing all of

SOUTHEAST MINNESOTA & NORTHEAST IOWA! Whether your looking for a get-a-way or planning a Permanent stay, as the local experts our team is key In finding you the property that’s right for you.

Residential, Acreages, Agricultural, New Construction

Roxanne Johnson Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI 507-458-6110 Roxanne@harmonytel.net

Kelsey Bergey GRI 507-251-0281 Kelsey@harmonytel.net

RE/ MAX Select Properties 25 W. Center St Harmony MN 55939 Open week days, call our cell phones for evenings and weekend appointments. Each office independently owned & operated.

Office: 507-886-4221 • www.SEMNrealestate.com

COFFEE

Parkway Market & Coffeehouse Lanesboro Open 8am to 8pm Daily Corner of Coffee Street & Parkway Avenue

Lanesboro, MN I 41

www.visitbluffcountry.com

High Court

HABBERSTAD HOUSE

Pub Enjoy amazing craft beers on tap, great cocktails, in-house flat breads, and the best live music in southeastern Minnesota!

Bed and Breakfast

Rent our 3rd floor loft go to www.highcourtpub.com to make reservations.

Enjoy a most relaxing retreat in this 1897 Queen Anne Victorian. Comfortable, quiet rooms, with scrumptious breakfasts. 109 North Parkway Ave Lanesboro MN, 55949 507-467-2782

We have two outdoor decks one overlooking the Root River.

www.highcourtpub.com OPEN DAiLy tiL LAtE Trivia Tuesdays @ 7:30 PM and Open MIC Thursdays 7:30 PM til late

706 Fillmore Ave. S., Lanesboro, MN

Kitchen Always Open

www.habberstadhouse.com

507-467-3560

• Historic Accomodations • Great downtown location •Steps from Root River & State Bike Trail • Easy access to local dining, shops, outdoor activities & cultural events.

Hours: Mon-Tues: 11am-8pm Closed Wednesday Thursday-Sunday: 11am-8pm

507-467-2200 111 Parkway Avenue N. • Lanesboro, MN

8 Rooms & 3 Suites

All rooms & suites include coffeemaker, AC, private bathrooms, & Wireless; Large upper deck, private patio with gas grill for entertaining.

Children & pets welcome! 100 Elmwood St. E. Lanesboro, MN

507-467-2144 www.grandmasmn.com

42 I Lanesboro, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Berwood Hill Inn

Root River

Saloon

112 Coffee Street • Lanesboro, MN 55949 507-467-3355

• On/Off Sale • Pull Tabs & E-Tabs • Minnesota State Lottery

Where tranquility & privacy await... and the memories will warm your heart forever

22139 Hickory Road Lanesboro, MN

www.berwood.com

(612) 867-3614

Stop iN & JoiN the FuN! Open Daily: Mon-Sat at 10 am and Sun at Noon

DAiLY hAppY houR

Whalan, MN I 43

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Spring Valley CheVrolet BuiCk

Sales • Service • Parts • Body Shop • Towing

Home of the Original New Big 10

507-346-7337

120 E. GranT STrEET • SPrinG VallEy, Mn 55975

www.SPrinGVallEychEVyBuick.coM

Cedar valleYutfitters resort & O Open Year-Round!

2015 Best Of Minnesota-Star Tribune

CedarValleyResort.com 507.467.9000

See full page ad inside front cover

heltered by towering 300-floot bluffs and laid out along a hairpin turn in the Root River lies the village of Whalan. Included in Midwest Living’s Ways to Play in the Root River Valley, the community affords fun and adventure at every turn. While much of the sightseeing in Fillmore County requires exertion on the part of the participant, several tours exclusive to Whalan allow for viewing the sights, wildlife, and nature while at complete rest. Take a tour through the 100 acres of private woodlands, around and overlooking the river, with horse drawn wagon or sleigh rides. For those looking for a bit more adventure, try a Jeep tour, up the bluff along switchback trails to a towering overlook. The town is a bustling destination for lodging and fun due to a number of established accommodations. Settle into a resort offering 11 cozy, log-sided cabins of various sizes. Winning the distinction of the Minnesota Resort and Campground Association’s 2013 Operators of the Year, the resort is full of amenities, including a retail area, frisbee golf course, sand volleyball, bocce ball, basketball court, three playgrounds, and vast green space for whatever your heart desires. In addition, bikes, canoes, kayaks, and tubes are available for rent, as are cross-country skis and snow tubes in the winter. Find the ultimate in relaxation at the resort with on-site massage, energy and Ayruveda therapies. Or, let your group check into a riverfront property just 100 feet from the Root River State Trail, offering whole house rental. Adjacent, the miniature golf is a challenging and amusing lighted sculpted 9-hole course, the best in the area. Also available for lodging are a guest house, inn and campground. When it’s time for a quieter pace, visitors can kick back in the striking city park under the gazebo or stop in at the famous pie shop, serving mouth-watering, homemade pies for over 25 years. History buffs will enjoy the Whalan Museum, located in the restored 1898 village hall, complete with performance hall and community center, and Ernie’s 1917 Filling Station, a restored (non-operative) landmark. Gardeners will revel in the greenery and ponds at a greenhouse just south of town on the scenic byway. Several festivities add to the fun in Whalan, and none is more popular that the world-famous Stand Still Parade. Held the third Saturday in May, the day-long celebration showcases the only non-moving parade. Here, “the parade doesn’t move, the spectators do!” The day is filled with artists, crafters, demonstrators, live music, Scandinavian lefse and rommegrot, a pie-eating contest, petting zoo, and laugh-inducing bed races. In July, the city hosts the three-day Fourth of July Fast Pitch Softball Tournament, while August provides an opportunity for an outdoor movie at the village hall. In September, the city hosts the Taste of the Trail, a celebration of life and culture along the Root River Trail. Even winter on the trail is exhilarating, as the city hosts a Candlelight Ski each year on the first Saturday in February. Participants will enjoy local food and a bonfire at both ends of the trail route.

44 I Whalan, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Cedar valleYutfitters resort & O

Welcome to Whalan

Open Year-Round!

15 Best Of Minnesota-Star Tribune

Cedar valleYutfitters resort & O Open Year-Round!

2015 Best Of Minnesota-Star Tribune

Todd Hadoff, GRI

WHALAN STANDSTILL PARADE

REMAX Results

Saturday, May 18, 2019

Cell: 507-259-5454 Email: homes@toddhadoff.com Website: www.ToddHadoff.com

CedarValleyResort.com See full page CedarValleyResort.com ad inside 507.467.9000 front cover 507.467.9000

DOC’S AUTO BODY & REPAIR For all your auto body repair, mechanical & painting needs

City of Whalan

Welcomes You!

WHALAN MUSEUM

Dale Peterson 8:00am-5:00pm Monday-Friday

210 2nd Ave. • Whalan, MN • 507-467-3598 Ask about Jeep Tours & Horse Drawn Rides!

A charming 19th Century Village nestled in a valley surrounded by Limestone Bluffs.

224 2nd Avenue, Whalan

507.467.2344 (on upper floor of historic Whalan Town Hall)

Open Daily ~ Call For Hours 507-467-2623

BLUFF VIEW GUEST HOUSE Whole House Rental 507-459-3314

• Opens 2nd weekend in May (weekends only in May) • Open 5 days a week Memorial weekend through Labor Day • October - limited days

Open Saturday & Sunday, May 18-mid October, 11am-4pm or by appointment, call 507.867.3746 whalanmuseum@gmail.com

whalanmuseum.com

www.visitbluffcountry.com

eRoy is known as the western gateway to Historic Bluff Country. A progressive community, in addition to its proximity to Lake Louise State Park’s recreation, LeRoy boasts an indoor swimming pool, bowling alley, two city parks with picnic shelters and playgrounds, ball diamonds, basketball courts and more. It is home to two buildings on the National Register of Historic Places - a prairiestyle bank designed by Purcell and Elmslie, students of Louis Sullivan, and the public library building, the only example of the small-town Carnegie-type Classical Revival style library building Stroll through our 2 acres of display gardens and visit our gift store.

The Area’s Largest Selection of Annuals, Perennials, Trees & Shrubs!

Call today for a free laNdSCaPe eStimate

Hwy 63 N., Chester, IA. • 2 miles North of Chester on Hwy 63 Hours Open: Mon-Sat 9:00am-5:30pm • Sun 11:00am-4:00pm

507-561-3785 Find us on Facebook

E: toddi@treehouselandscaping.com • W: www.treehouselandscaping.com

STOP IN AND TEST DRIVE ONE TODAY

LeRoy, MN I 45

left intact in Mower County. Lake Louise State Park, located approximately 1.5 miles north of LeRoy on County Road 14, lures hikers, bikers, horseback riders, skiers, and snowmobilers to its trails, which wind through open landscapes and lush hardwoods. A colony of Allium cernum, also known as nodding wild onion, can be found in the park. This is a Minnesota threatened species. The nodding wild onion blooms in the spring, along with purplefringed orchid, woodland prairie flowers. The confluence of the Little Iowa and Upper Iowa Rivers that occurs in the state park provides ample water recreation for swimmers, boaters, and fishermen. The lakeside picnic grounds and beach area draw many visitors in the summer. The Shooting Star State Trail begins in the city of LeRoy in Mower County and travels north through Lake Louise State Park. It then heads west along Highway 56, which is also known as the Shooting Star & Historic Route Scenic Byway. The trail goes through Taopi, Adams, Rose Creek, and heads toward Austin, allowing trail users to experience a rural landscape. The native wildflowers and grasses are a highlight of this byway and trail. Leroy is also home to the Pioneer Prairie Wind Tower Lookout and Interpretive Center.

Spring Valley CheVrOlet BuiCk

Sales • Service • Parts • Body Shop • Towing

CheCk Out Our COlliSiOn Center!

Oh, Deer! neVer fear... We Can fix it!

507-346-7337

120 E. GranT STrEET • SPrinG VallEy, Mn 55975

www.SPrinGVallEychEVyBuick.coM

46 I LeRoy, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Prairie Visions Shooting Star Scenic Byway & Shooting Star Regional Trail

Shooting Star Scenic Byway

20 MILES OF GARAGE SALES ALONG THE SHOOTING STAR SCENIC BYWAY June 7 & 8, 2019 LeRoy to Rose Creek

Lake Louise State Park www.visitleroy.com/lakelouise.html Trails for: • Hiking • Biking • Horseback Riding • Skiing • Snowmobiling

Water recreation includes: • Swimming • Boating / Canoeing • Fishing • Shaded picnic grounds

2019 Scheduled Programs

Campground: Opens Memorial Day Weekend Open House: Saturday, June 8, 2019 Candlelight Walk: 5:30-8:00pm • Oct. 6, 2019

2n1us al An

Prairie Visions Presents

Shooting Star Trail Bike Ride Saturday, June 22, 2019 Austin’s Todd Park is the starting point

Check out businesses in the Prairie Visions Communities for Dining, Recreation, Gas & Convenience, Hardware, Groceries, Lodging, Antiques, Gifts & More!

Prairie Visions Community Events ADAMS DAIRY DAYS June 8 & 9, 2019

ROSE CREEK DAYS July 12, 13, & 14, 2019

LEROY SUMMER-FEST July 19, 20, & 21, 2019

Mabel, MN I 47

www.visitbluffcountry.com

abel is snuggled in the southeast corner of Fillmore County, just 20 miles north of Decorah, Iowa. Frank Adams was the chief construction engineer of the Narrow Gauge Railroad Line that built the first railroad through Mabel. Adams platted the Village of Mabel in the fall of 1879, naming it Mabel in honor of his young daughter. Steam Engine Park is located on the south edge of Mabel. The park is open to the public and provides picnic shelters for family get-togethers, new playground equipment, and one of the best ball diamonds in the area. The annual ‘50s & ‘60s Day is held the second Saturday in August. Classic cars line Main Street for all to view on Saturday afternoon. After the car show is the awarding of trophies.

Mabel ’50s & ’60s Day Saturday, August 10, 2019 Main St. • Mabel, MN

We have the Experience.

CANDLES • CARDS • GIFTS • FLOWERS • PLANTS

Cruise in for a rockin’ good time!

www.mabel5060.com •

We have the Inventory.

We Deliver!

• Car Show - Registration 8am-11am Trophies at 2:30pm • 5K & 10K Run from the Sun • Live Music: 1-2pm • Food available in the Legion

General info: Gary 507-269-9597

You can spend the day enjoying the cars, great food, music and more! One of the biggest events in the area is Hesper-Mabel Steam Engine Days. The annual celebration is held in the park the first weekend after Labor Day. It features threshing machines powered by steam engines, two gigantic parades that start with old steam engines sounding their whistles down Main Street, arts and crafts, an antique show, and more. On Saturday night there is a tractor pull for the “big” kids. The weekend winds down with drawings held by various community organizations, with the grand prize being a new vehicle. Mabel’s business community includes a bank, farm store, thrift store, hardware store, medical clinic, flower and gifts store, antique shop, a hotel, restaurants and other various businesses. A stop at the remodeled Historic Mabel House Hotel is a must; it was built in 1879 and has been serving guests ever since.

‘50s-’60s Classic Car Show

Rent The Historic Barn In Mabel • Auctions • Benefits • Receptions • pARties • And moRe... From May - October!

MABEL FLOWERS & GIFTS 105 S Main Street, Mabel, MN 507-493-5400 www.mabelflowers.com

Mabel Liquor Store 106 North Main, Mabel, MN 55954

507-493-5544

LeAnn Jevne: 507-493-5400

Property of the Hesper-Mabel Area Historical Society

ON & OFF SALE

Open Monday-Saturday at 10:00 AM

48 I Mabel, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

MABEL

Home of the Steam Engine that went to the Mardi-Gras in New Orleans

For more info visit Mabel’s website www.cityofmabel.com • steamenginedays.com City offices: 507-493-5299 Citywide Rummage Sale

August 8-10

T 7 6

MABEL-CANTON COMMUNITY NIGHT OUT August 6, 2019

Customer Appreciation Supper at Steam Engine Grounds Kids Games, Music, & More!

HESPER-MABEL STEAM ENGINE DAYS

Saturday & Sunday September 7 & 8, 2019

• Quilt Show • Parades • Exhibitions • Food • Crafts • Threshing • Tractor Pull • Model Railroad Show • Inflatable Bounce Houses • Many, Many Activities

The Mabel Business Association welcomes you to our community. Enjoy your time in our town and visit the foIlowing sites: • Hesper-Mabel Historic Barn • Steam Engine Park • Mabel MemoriaI Park • Mabel Sportsmen Park • Mabel-Canton K-12 school

Our business community is here to serve you, check out: • Dining • Gas • Hardware • Gifts • Lodging • Farm & Home Shopping • FIowers • Quilts • Grocery • Clothing and More!

Mabel Area Community Center 201 Main St. S • Mabel, Minn. • www.cityofmabel.com Call 507-493-5299 to book your event today! From a small shower to a reunion, an employee meeting to a large wedding reception, the Mabel Area Community Center is your answer!

Mabel/Millville, MN I 49

www.visitbluffcountry.com

VOTE FOR

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LAVIKA VENTURE 100 KAYAK

Simple Living Farmers’ Market Mabel

Saturdays 8:30-11:30 a.m. Late April to late October ¼ west of Jct Hwy 44/43

Caledonia

Wednesdays 3:00-6:00 p.m. Late April to late October Redwood Cafe parking lot, Hwy 44 Fresh produce, baked and canned goods, crafts, and more!

For information, contactcontact Walter “Mac” Macomber 507-760-0198 For information, Jennifer 507-922-4007

FINAL ENTRY

Convenience & Service all through the Root River Valley

Mabel bp Food Shop

DEADLINE

• • • • • • •

September 30, 2019

VISITBLUFFCOUNTRY.COM/THEBEST Complete the online ballot and you'll be entered into a drawing for one of the grand prizes.

Hot Foods & Deli Convenience Store Movie Rentals Lottery Tickets Pay-At-Pump 24/7 Diesel Fuel LP Exchange

Locally owned and operated by S&A Petroleum

Hunting/fishing license & Game Registration

Highway 44 & Locust, Mabel (507) 493-5924

Only businesses and organizations represented in this Visit Bluff Country Magazine will be eligible for BEST of the BEST Awards selection.

Millville, MN

DICK'S HALFWAY INN 440 Oakwood St., Millville, MN

www.whiskeydicksmillville.com FOR INFORMATION OR RESERVATIONS CALL US AT 507-421-9508

• Pet friendly • Includes 5 bedrooms and 3 baths • Local attractions include fishing, canoeing, tubing, kayaking, and motocross tracks •Walking distance to local establishments

illville, a city on the Zumbro River, was incorporated as a village in 1899. It was founded by Charles F. Read, for whom Reads Landing was named, on a site selected for its good gristmill possibility, although none was built. When the post office was established in 1867, Read was the first postmaster in his home. Millville is home to the Spring Creek National. This legendary motocross race is sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing. When in town for the the race, stop at the saloon and grill for a tasty meal in their outdoor eating area, or rent a kayak to get the best view of the Zumbro! August brings out the best of the town with their August Millville Valley River Days celebration, which began with just a band and only was supposed to be one day, but soon grew into a full-blown festival, with old and new attractions and activities. One tradition being brought back from the festival in the 1990s is the rubber duck races, in which thousands of rubber ducks are released into the river, with the owners of the first three ducks to cross the finish line winning a prize. Among other activities, the festival ends with fireworks at dusk on Sunday night.

ADVERTISE WITH US! Call 1-800-599-0481

50 I Millville/Plainview, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

WHISKEY DICKS Eatery & Saloon

411 Division St • Millville, MN • 507-798-2424 www.whiskeydicksmillville.com

Restaurant:

Monday: Closed Tuesday-Thursday: 10:30am - 10pm Friday: 10:30am - close Saturday: 11am to close Sunday: 11am - 9pm

Fridays

All you can eat fish and chicken buffet! Famous for the fresh delicious half pound burgers

Party Packages available ON AND OFF SALE Food and liquor catering available! HAPPY HOUR TUESDAY THROUGH THURSDAY 3 - 6PM • FRIDAY 10PM-12AM

Plainview, MN

lainview – population 3,340 and growing – is a progressive community that offers easy access to jobs and big city amenities in Rochester while maintaining the neighborly values of rural America! From the city’s three festivals to its monthly “Occasional Shop” weekends to fundraisers, sports events and entertainment, Plainview is welcoming! Corn-on-the-Cob Days, Plainview’s premier five-day festival, attracts over 6,000 visitors to town in August. Old Fashioned Christmas kicks off the holiday in December. And the Carley Park Bluebell Festival welcomes spring in May! Year-round day-trippers look forward to “Occasional Shop Weekends” when quaint shops join Plainview’s retail stores in offering quality, unique merchandise. Dining choices range from award-winning Chinese cuisine to comfort food, to gourmet beverages and fine dining. Recreation matters! The city has eight parks that have tennis, softball, basketball and soccer facilities, a swimming pool and more. Golfers enjoy a 9-hole regulation course. And the Plainview Public Library and Plainview Area Community & Youth Center provide meaningful programs. The town is uniquely situated at the crossroads to three river valleys. The Mississippi River, Whitewater and Zumbro River Valleys; Whitewater and Carley State Parks; and four DNR areas offer hunting, fishing, boating, canoeing, hiking, bird-watching, cross-country skiing, horseback riding or off-road ATVing – all 5-15 minutes away. Plainview offers the best of southeastern Minnesota! A welcoming town! Strong school system! Good neighbor! And, great opportunities!

to The Woods is Going Home g n i o ” “G

Visit our Spacious Showroom for Authentic Amish Furniture & Unique Home Décor Please call, email, or stop by. 435 West Broadway, Suite 1 • Plainview, MN 55964 (507) 710-4110 • (866) 861-1830 amishwoods@woodsamishfurniture.com

Visit us at http://woodsamishfurniture.com/

Minneiska, MN I 51

www.visitbluffcountry.com

SMG Design

Web

inneiska, meaning “Water White,” was named by the Sioux Indians. The Whitewater and Zumbro joined the Mississippi, causing turbulence that appeared white. The Indians loved the area for water travel, and the high bluffs above the river allowed a lookout for game and enemy tribes. Close to the 2,800-acre Whitewater Management Area and numerous state forest lands, Minneiska has a great 3-mile wide view of the great Mississippi. Eagles nest in the summer and can be seen fishing almost year-round, pelicans are seen soaring, and in the fall, tundra swans feed and rest. A fish weather vane high on the bluff above Minneiska was originally made of wood and erected in the mid-1800s, giving log rafters a clue to wind direction, and is now replaced with a tin fish. Just south of town, on the river, Putman Gray built from driftwood what is known as “Crazy Man’s Castle.” Decorated with a tower, steeples, verandas, and pagodas, it was advertised in St. Louis and when steamboat lights flashed across the castle at night, Gray’s daughters danced with white sheets covering themselves. Putman also invented an amusement ride that was purchased by a man named Ferris, becoming the Ferris Wheel that is still enjoyed today. With the most woodcarvers per capita, two shops are open to the public; one carving carousel animals, trolls and gnomes and, next door, a carver works on Kubblstoles and Scandinavian furniture. A third carver makes signs that are seen throughout the city.

We Design Your Success

We specialize in customized website design and development to meet the online marketing needs of clients all throughout the United States. 136 St. Anthony Street, Preston, MN 55965 Phone: 507-765-2151 • E-mail: michelle@smgwebdesign.com www.smgwebdesign.com • www.facebook.com/SMGDesign

VOTE FOR THE

BE A VBC WINNER!

BEST OF THE BEST AND WIN A

GRIZZLY COOLER

V I S I T B L U F F C O U N T RY. C O M / T H E B E S T Complete the online ballot and you'll be entered into a drawing for one of the grand prizes.

Only businesses and organizations represented in this Visit Bluff Country Magazine will be eligible for BEST of the BEST Awards selection.

Langseth Wood Carving Beautifully Handcrafted Furniture Specializing in traditional Norwegian designs. Working with clients to create one-of-a-kind pieces.

M.H. Langseth

Wood Carver 514 Bennett Ave, Minneiska, Minnesota 55910 (507) 429-9981

52 I Wabasha, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

ocated 70 miles southeast of Minneapolis/St. Paul, Wabasha, Minn., is a hotspot river town on the Mississippi River, rich in history and attractions. Enjoy outdoor activities, artistic experiences, unique shopping, fine dining and lodging. Our historic district has more than 50 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. The cities of Wabasha and Kellogg are committed to preserving the heritage each community embodies, while planning for the future. Whether you’re planning a Mississippi River vacation, considering a weekend getaway to Minnesota, looking to relocate, starting a new business or just out to explore, we invite you to enjoy the many year-round activities that the Wabasha-Kellogg area has to offer. Take your pick of annual festivities in which to join: the Riverboat Days, SeptOberfest, Grumpy Old Men Festival or on March weekends, SOAR with the Eagles. Take your pick from among Wabasha-Kellogg’s eight exciting year-round Traveler Bundles. Choices include boating on the beautiful Mississippi River, golfing, skiing, shopping, bald eagles, and more! Packages also come with “extras” like shopping specials, dining treats, and admission tickets, depending on which package you choose! Simply call the hotel of your choice, and tell them the package you want. They’ll take it from there, setting your reservations for sailing on Lake Pepin, riding a carousel at an award winning toy store, viewing bald eagles, enjoying a spa experience, skiing or golfing! As your host, Wabasha-Kellogg wants you to have a fun and memorable experience.

Open for Garden Tours, Church Groups, Senior Groups, Garden Clubs & More!

The

Anderson Gardens Vern & Shirley Anderson (651) 565-3213

64784 141st Ave. Wabasha, MN 55981 June 15 Open Gardens • Saturday, June 15, 2019, 8 am- 12pm pancake breakfast

VOTE FOR THE

BE A VBC WINNER!

BEST OF THE BEST AND WIN A

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VISITBLUFFCOUNTRY.COM/THEBEST Complete the online ballot and you'll be entered into a drawing for one of the grand prizes.

Only businesses and organizations represented in this Visit Bluff Country Magazine will be eligible for BEST of the BEST Awards selection.

Kellogg, MN I 53

www.visitbluffcountry.com

SMG

Web

Design

We Design Your Success We specialize in customized website design and development to meet the online marketing needs of clients all throughout the United States.

Check out the City of Mabel website created by SMG Web Design. http://www.cityofmabel.com/

On your Smart Phone

507-765-2151 • michelle@smgwebdesign.com www.smgwebdesign.com • www.facebook.com/SMGDesign

elcome to the City of Kellogg, Minn., and the picturesque scenic surrounding area. Kellogg is home to a recently constructed Heroes Memorial located in their down town park. Life-size concrete statues are displayed, including a fireman, soldier, paramedic and police officer along with a huge central granite engraved wall. Engraved bricks with community heroes’ names make up the walking area. The Heroes Memorial is also lit up at night, which is a spectacular site. The concrete statues were created by a local statuary producer. The memorial area’s landscape design was also created locally. The Kellogg area offers fishing, hunting, camping, snowmobiling, ATV, and horseback riding in nearby state parks, restaurants, hairstyling, landscaping, attractions and shopping. The first weekend of May brings the area’s 100-Mile Garage Sale, with Kellogg as one of the participating towns. The first weekend after Labor Day, Kellogg celebrates with their annual Watermelon Festival. A weekend full of fun, with softball tournament, tractor ride, carnival, burnout, watermelon crawl, and more! Enjoy family fun for everyone with a parade on that Sunday! To learn more about Kellogg, visit http://www. cityofkellogg.org/ and www.wabashamn.org.

ADVERTISE WITH US! Call 1-800-599-0481

54 I Reads Landing, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

eads Landing, Minnesota, is a small town on the Mississippi River, just a few miles north of Wabasha, on The Great River Road, Hwy 61. It is one of the best places to watch bald eagles in the midwest. The flow of the nearby Chippewa River emptying into the Mississippi River helps keep the waters open in winter. You’ll find eagles congregating over the open water to feed on fish and waterfowl. While here, also keep an eye out for wintering rough-legged and red-tailed hawks, common goldeneyes and common mergansers. The best eagle viewing is November through March. A two-story brick schoolhouse in Reads Landing was the second built in Minnesota. Ground was broken for the school in 1870 and it served as a school until 1965. Now it serves as the Reads Landing Museum. Visit it to learn more about the local history. The town offers a pub in a building constructed in 1870, which originally opened as a dry goods store. Here you can enjoy a locally crafted brew on the patio overlooking the mighty Mississippi. There are also three MnDOT pulloffs north of Reads Landing on Highway 61 that offer scenic overlooks of Lake Pepin.

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Reads Landing BRewing Company 70555 202nd Avenue Reads Landing, MN 55968 651-560-4777 Wed. & Thurs.: 11am– 9pm Friday–Saturday: 11am–10pm Sunday: 12pm–9pm Monday & Tuesday: Closed

Check out our website: www.rlbrewingco.com

Great Brews.river views

Peterson, MN I 55

www.visitbluffcountry.com

ounded in 1867 amid a winding National Scenic Byway, the community of Peterson has a proud legacy and a bright future as a bicycling and fishing hub in the Rushford Peterson Valley. Situated on the number one ranked trail in Minnesota, The Root River Valley State Bike Trail, the town was one of two Fillmore County towns chosen for the popular 2014 Bicycle Around Minnesota tour for its rolling bluffs, serene valleys, and breath-taking prairies. For anglers, the watershed is prime trout water, with 12 designated area trout streams, as well as high-quality smallmouth bass streams. A contributing factor to the preservation of these waters is the private organizations and the Department of Natural Resources Peterson Fish Hatchery. The hatchery relies on the crisp, clear water to produce 100,000 to 130,000 trout annually for Minnesota. Self-guided and educational tours of the hatchery are available. A Natural Resources boat landing and launch sits tucked near the base of the bridge crossing into Peterson. Crossing the bridge from the byway, the quaint town opens up before you, tree-lined and like days gone by. The town has a rich history, including as the former site of the Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Paul Railroad Depot, built in 1877. It has since been restored and converted to the Peterson Station Museum & Tourist Center. Inside, visitors will discover interesting local memorabilia, art, artifacts, and photographs of events and points of interest. For those of Norwegian decent, the museum also has a comprehensive genealogy center, as part of their new annex. During June’s Gammel Dag celebration, the town offers everyone the chance to be Norwegian for a day. Norwegian artisans demonstrate their talents, as visitors enjoy folk dancing and authentic Scandinavian foods, a 25-mile tractor ride, storytelling,

music and dancing, and a grand parade. In September, a Taste of the Trail presents a taste of farm life and wildlife, including live animal displays, artisan vendors, and a scrumptious taste of foods from the community. Welcoming the holiday season, Christmas in Peterson, a festival of seasonal displays, art, music, and food, is held the second Saturday of December. The town’s city park is home to a restored bandstand that hosts a summer concert series. Down the street, another park rests atop a sloping hillside and offers softball fields, a playground, volleyball court, horseshoe pits, and large pavilion. In the heart of downtown, Veterans Park is less than a block from the trail, tucked in a grassy setting along with east side of the former 1875 and 1901 historic Quickstad Farm Implement Company buildings.Down the block, visitors will find artisan works of turned wood pens, and bowls, a place where you’ll also find art and craft items made by other local artisans. To quench your thirst or appetite, Peterson offers ice cream, cold drinks, and snacks. Also you will find the Peterson American Legion, which is also an off-sale liquor store. A local café is famous for their homemade pies and creative and delicious menu options, at small town prices. For unique lodging, across from Bandstand Park lies an historic inn, built in 1904 along the tracks of the Southern Minnesota Railroad and a B&B, located at the original site of the 1877 Peterson Train Depot. A hotel near the museum offers units with fully stocked kitchens, and large living rooms. In additon to these lodging options, camping is available at the city RV park and includes full water, sewer, and electrical hook-ups at each site, as well as public restrooms.

More information and activities at www.rushfordpetersonvalley.com www.petersonmn.org

Peterson Visitors Center • 228 Mill St. • 507-875-2222

Chamber Visitors Center • 401 S. Elm St., Rushford • 507-864-3338

2019 Events & Activities MAY 1717-19 SEMBA Bluegrass Festival JUNE-OCTOBER, WEDNESDAYS Valley Farmers Market JUNE 2121-22 Trail Towns 60-Mile Garage Sale JUNE 22 Peterson Gammel Dag Fest JULY 7-JULY 28, SUNDAYS Music in the Peterson Bandstand JULY 1515-21 Rushford Days JULY 1717-21 RASA Theater production AUGUST 10 Rushford’s Root River Jams AUGUST 1515-18 SEMBA Bluegrass Festival AUGUST 17 Bluff Land Tri: Run, Bike, Hike

Experience Root River Bluff Country by trail or by water SO MUCH TO DO AND SEE

EXCELLENT VARIETY OF RESTAURANTS

MOTELS. INNS, B&BS: Andor Wenneson Inn • Geneva's Hideaway • Sweet Dreams •

Loken’s Rushford Inn • Windswept Inn CAMPGROUNDS: Peterson City • Trailside • Bluffview • Cushon's Peak • Rushford City

SEPTEMBER 7 Taste of the Trail: Peterson, Whalan, Lanesboro SEPTEMBER 21 Taste of the Trail: Rushford Area & Houston OCTOBER 19 Rushford Arts & Crafts Fair DECEMBER 14 Christmas in Peterson & Rushford Parade of Lights

56 I Peterson, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Located in Downtown Peterson, MN

507.875.2424 Mon-Thur 6 am-3pm Fri 6am-9pm Sat 7am-3pm BANQUET FACILITIES AVAILABLE

■ Breakfast - Traditional & Featured Selections ■ Daily Lunch Specials ■ Homemade Soups, Salads, Sandwiches ■ Homemade Pies & Sweet Delights ■ Friday Fish Fry

“Whole House Rental” Vacation Rental in rural Peterson, MN

Planning a party? Give us a call to set up your next event. 507.875.2235

Owners: Bill & Patty Moe

38231 182nd Street Peterson, MN 55962 Custom built house, large yard, PETS WELCOME Rent year-round: events, parties, family, family weddings

RIVER HOUSE INN Visit and enjoy our Veterans Memorial Park just off the Root River Bike Trail. Pool and darts, pull tabs, pizza and hot sandwiches plus your favorite cold beverages.

OFF-SALE AVAILABLE DURING BUSINESS HOURS For more information and hours of business:

Reservations: 507-875-3667 e-mail: theriverhouseinn@gmail.com Website: VRBO.com (vacation rental by owner)

www.americanlegion526.org LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

GILBERTSON –RUDE POST 526 Downtown scenic Peterson, MN

We have Wi-Fi

Preston, MN I 57

www.visitbluffcountry.com

reston is settled in the heart of the driftless area of southeastern Minnesota. The topography sets the stage for astounding vistas and the winding river valley. Minnesota’s Trout Capital, Preston offers an abundance of waterways, wildlife, farmland and forests. The Root River watershed, dubbed “arguably the best” by Fly Fisherman, is part of one of the largest collections of freshwater springs in the world. Seizing an opportunity for an environmental learning center at the heart of these prime waters, Preston’s National Trout Center is aimed at connecting visitors to the experience. You can also take advantage of a fly fishing shop now open in Preston. Mystery Cave, the longest cave in the upper Midwest, owes its beginnings to the waterways. With nearly 20,000 visitors each year, the 13-mile cave system (with potentially miles more of undiscovered caverns) is a subterranean marvel, at a constant 48 degrees, that includes stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, fossils, and underground pools. Park naturalists lead a variety of tours including an easy walk along lighted walkways to sites such as Turquoise Lake, a 12-foot deep pond colored a breath-taking blue by calcite, and physically-challenging passes past the Garden of the Gods formation and Blue Lake, the largest pool in the cave system. For a more adventurous outing, the Wild Caving Tour will see visitors crawling and squeezing through undeveloped portions of the cave. The cave is part of the Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park, listed as one of the Best Midwest State Parks by Midwest Living. The 3,000 acre paradise is perfect for picnicking, watching wildlife, hiking, horseback riding, skiing, or snowmobiling and home to dramatic Big Spring and The Zumbro Hill Cemetery,

reflecting early life and death in the boomtown of Forestville. Historic Forestville, also part of the park, begins with a walk across the Carnegie Steel Bridge. You will step into 1899 along with costumed guides depicting the people and life in the village businesses, homes, and gardens. The village includes five original structures; the Meighen store and home, granary, carriage barn, and barn. In a reconstructed barn, a gift shop offers 19th century replicas such as kitchen gadgets and supplies, bonnets and hats, books, toys, games, and glazed pottery. Several signature events are held at the site throughout summer and fall. Downtown Preston boasts its own historical pride with the 1902 Milwaukee Elevator, a towering site, along with a restored 1939 Milwaukee Road boxcar and 1951 caboose. Future plans for the site include an interpretive center focused on highlighting rural agriculture. The nearby trailhead beckons visitors to hike, bike, skate, and ski the paved Root River Trail system or the 18-mile Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail. Several unique businesses dot the city and surrounding area. A must-see and must-taste destination is an orchard boasting 1,000 apple trees on 5 acres, 1/4 acre of raspberries, a large garden patch, and store sitting above the city on the rolling bluff. Several culinary options are available in town: fine dining, quick madeto-order sandwiches, and the best breakfasts and burgers around. The city features two golf courses; one 9 holes and the other, 18 holes. The latter is part of a resort that sits atop a sloping ridge and offers amenities such as a camping, a hostel, restaurant, and pool. Another campground sits nestled on a century-old farm along Forestville Creek, while another is at the county fairCONTINUED ON PAGE 58

Your SoMN Outdoor Recreation Destination! Plan your visit today. www.GetHookedOnPreston.com | 507-765-2100 | 1-888-845-2100

Friendly

Visit www.prestonmnchamber.com for more information on the Preston Area Chamber of Commerce and our Veteran Friendly Community!

Moving or expanding to the Trout Capital? Contact Preston EDA for housing and business incentives at 507-765-2153 or cathy.enerson@cedausa.com

58 I Preston, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 57

grounds. Traditional lodging options are offered downtown, and for those looking for an offbeat lodging experience, the former Fillmore County Jail and carriage house has been completely renovated to a 12-room B&B. Throughout the year, Preston is bustling with activity, including Trout Days in May and the Fillmore County Fair in July. Autumn and winter seasons offer Taste of the Trail in September, Pumpkin Fest & Fall Expo in October, Turkey Day Run on Thanksgiving Day, the Holiday Expo in December, and the Chili Cook-off Contest in January. And, on Veterans Day 2015, the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery opened on the east side of Preston. With over 169 acres of rolling hills and trees, this cemetery is recognized as the most scenic in the nation.

JuliaClaire

Located at the Fillmore County Fairgrounds No Reservations (First Come First Serve) • Restrooms & Showers • Dump Station • Firewood & Fire Rings • Near the Root River • Some 413 E. Fillmore St. Electric Hookups • Near the PrestonPreston, MN 55965 Harmony Recreation Trail

www.fillmorecountyfair.com

Opening April 1ST 2019 • 507-765-2370 Closed July 16-21, 2019 for the Fillmore County Fair

The best little sub shop you’ve never heard of!

The Sweet Stop and Sandwich Shoppe Something for everyone...subs, sweets,

Consignment & Variety

• Women’s, Men’s & Children Clothing • Teamwear & Sportswear • Housewares & Home Accessories • Books, Games & Videos • Furniture 152 Main Street • Preston, MN • 507-765-2399

www.facebook.com/affordableclothingprestonmn

507-765-9956

soups, salads & sodas!

Free wireless Internet! Visit us at

www.thesweetstop.net for full menu and information!

507-765-9956 Like us on Facebook!

110 ST. ANTHONY ST. SOUTH • DOWNTOWN PRESTON

Branding iron

restaurant & supper CluB

Hwy. 52 & 16 • Preston, MN • 507-765-3388 www.brandingironmn.com

2018 Best of the Best • Fine Dining • Steak • Seafood

2017 Best of the Best

• Onion Rings • Longtime Favorite Restaurant 2018 and 2017 Best of the Best awards acknowledged in the Fillmore County Journal Reader’s Choice Awards

Preston, MN I 59

www.visitbluffcountry.com

HourS: monday - Friday 4pm - 1am Saturday 3pm - 1am Special eventS by appointment 217 St. paul St. SW - preSton, mn 507-765-2205 In honor of those who have served

Guided Trips • Flies For Area Streams • Gear • Tackle Local Info • Fly Fishing Lessons • Wader Repair Kayak/Canoe rental & sales

MINNESOTA'S TROUT CAPITAL on the South Branch of The Root River!

FLY SHOP OPEN YEAR ROUND check website for hours

Call or email Mel to book guided trips melvin@minnesotaflyfishing.com • 507-327-4276 • 507-765-4915 208 St. Paul Street SW, Preston, MN

www.minnesotaflyfishing.com

60 I Preston, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Educational Workshops & Trout Information Visit website for hours of operation & event schedule! Now renting fly, spin, and kids fishing equipment!

120 St. Anthony Street S Preston, MN 55965

507-765-2452

www.nationaltroutcenter.org info@nationaltroutcenter.org

OPen 7 DAys A Week

B&B Olympic Bowl great fun...great fOOd

Automatic Scoring & Spacious Bowling Area

401 KanSaS St. nw • preStOn, Mn 55965 Open BOwling • Call fOr availaBility

lounge Hours: Monday-Sunday: 9am - Closing “Happy Hour” Monday-friday: 4pm - 6pm

Friday: Batter fried fish Saturday: Jumbo Shrimp Sunday: ribs

restaurant:

Monday-friday: 5am - 10pm (Breakfast and Lunch Specials) Saturday: 5am - 10pm Sunday: 5am - 8pm $1 Bowling on Sunday All Day

Call for Dinner Specials

www.bandbbowlandrestaurant.com

507.765.2522

Birthday Parties Available

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Preston, MN I 61

Over 20 varieties of Apples! Apple Pies • Turnovers • Other Baked Goods Local Jams, Jellies, Honey & Maple Syrup

Pizza on the Farm

May-Labor Day • Saturdays 5pm

"Our pizzas are made entirely from scratch. We use fresh veggies from our farm, fresh pulled mozzarella and meat from local producers.” Open May-December 507-765-4486 645 Highway 52 East Preston, MN 55965

EAT I RELAX I ENJOY YOU’RE ALWAYS WELCOME! 105 Fillmore St. Preston, MN 507-765-2465 myprestonfoods.com Monday-Saturday 7am-9pm Sunday 8am-7pm

62 I Preston, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

GolfinG SpecialS 1/2 Price Membership 1st Year starting as low as $200

1/2 Price Green Fees for Visitors

When they stay at Preston area hotels and campgrounds

125 Out of Town Full Membership

(30 Miles or More) Great

deals for permanent campers!

Full Service Repair Shop:

Women’s Day • Tuesday • 2pm Men’s Day • Thursday • 12pm Cart Rental Available

Tires Batteries Brakes & Alignments Air Conditioning/Heating

Public welcome No tee times needed

Body Work Exhaust

608 Houston st nW Preston, Mn 55965 (507) 765-3846 prestongolfcourse@gmail.com prestongolfcourse.com

Enjoy the views of our gently rolling 9 hole course!

serenity hills W E D D I N G

E V E N T

V E N U E

21630 US-52 PRESTON, MN 55965 H E L L O @ S E R E N I T Y H I L L S P AV I L I O N . C O M W W W . S E R E N I T Y H I L L S P AV I L I O N . C O M

• NEWLY CONSTRUCTED BRIDAL COTTAGE + PERMANENT RESTROOMS • GROOM’S DEN • 300 GUESTS ARE WELCOME • ROUGHLY 4,000 SQ. FT. OF INDOOR EVENT SPACE • LIGHTED PATIO AND PLENTY OF OUTDOOR SPACE TO ENJOY • UNBEATABLE SCENERY!

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Preston, MN I 63

NAPA Auto PArts

Business Hours Monday – Saturday 8 A.M. – 6 P.M.

23283 US 52 Preston, Minnesota 55965 One Mile North of Preston on Hwy 52

507-765-2250 www.hoffmannstables.com

Preston Auto Parts - NAPA Root River Hardware 6113 Spring Ave. N, Preston 507.765.2101 Hours: Monday-Friday 8-5:30 Saturday 8-2

Free Hot Breakfast | Free Wireless Internet | 100% Non Smoking | Pet Friendly • 40 Rooms King, Queen, or Doubles 2 Handicap Accessible • 6 Suites • Indoor pool & Hot tub

Call for reservations!

888-378-2896

Located on Hwy 52

Easy walking to Preston/Harmony trail and local restaurants!

64 I Preston, MN

Specializing in: Experienced with: Local expertise:

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Hunting Land, Farmland, Hobby Farms, Build Sites & Country Estates Surveying, Parcel Splits, Zoning/Planning, 1031 Tax Exchanges Born and raised in southeastern MN. Chad Garteski 507-269-2742

Kit Johnston 507-261-0188

MN Licensed Real Estate Agent Email: Chad@WeissChoice.com

MN Licensed Real Estate Agent Email: Kit@WeissChoice.com

Land Wanted!

If you are thinking about selling, call today for a FREE market analysis.

www.WeissChoice.com

1300 Energy Dr., Preston, MN Ph. 507-765-2284 404 Airport Rd., Albert Lea, MN Ph. 507-377-8781

Toll-Free 888-809-6637

Check out our website for super specials www.rootriverhardwoods.com

Specializing in: Experienced with: Local expertise:

Preston, Mn

Albert leA, Mn

8:00 - 4:30, M-f 9:00 - 12 noon, sat. 888-809-6637 Hobby Farms, Build

8:00 - 5:00 M-f 9:00 - 12 noon, sat. Sites &855-222-8781 Country Estates

Hunting Land, Farmland, Surveying, Parcel Splits, Zoning/Planning, 1031 Tax Exchanges More than just lumber Born and raised in southeastern MN.

Specializing in custom made . . .

Kit Johnston 507-261-0188

MN Licensed Real Estate Agent Email: Kit@WeissChoice.com

• Trim Chad Garteski 507-269-2742 • Paneling

MN Licensed Real Estate Agent Email: Chad@WeissChoice.com

• Flooring • Stair Parts

• Interior Doors

Skip the middleman and Visit our beautiful new showroom inWanted! Land buymarket direct from the sawmill! If you30 areWood thinking about selling, call today for a FREE analysis. Albert Lea with over Species displayed!

www.WeissChoice.com

Preston, MN I 65

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Maple Springs Campground, Inc. & Country Store

www.maplespringscampground.com 21606 County 118 Preston, MN 55965 Reservations:

Located at entrance west of Forestville State Park

235 St. Paul St. SW • Preston, MN

507-352-2056 or 507-951-8876

507-765-2214 • www.prestonfloralgift.com

• Large, Level Campsites with 30/50amps Electricity & Water/Sewer or Primitive Tent Sites • Picnic Tables & Fire Rings at Every Site • Free WiFi • Convenience Store with Fishing Tackle, Bait, RV Supplies, Snacks, Amish Jelly, Wood, Ice & More! • Trout Fishing • Nature Trails • Birdwatching • Bicyclers Welcome Since 1989, Maple Springs Campground continues to be a place where families can spend quality time together while fishing on a beautiful trout stream, hiking on our nature trails and enjoying evenings by the campfire. Introduce your family to the great outdoors & friendly atmosphere of beautiful Maple Springs Campground.

MORE THAN JUST FLOWERS

Clothing • Gift Items • Much More WE DELIVER • CHECK OUT OUR FACEBOOK

Now leasing 2019 seasonal sites!

TRAILHEAD INN

24 Spacious, Pet-Friendly Rooms Come and Enjoy The NEW Hot Tub Room!

112 Center Street, Preston

All New Honeymoon Suite!

Located directly on the Root River

(507) 765-2460

www.trailhead-inn.com

Complimentary Breakfast Suites, Doubles & Singles

66 I Preston/Red Wing, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Convenience & Service all through the Root River Valley

10% Discount Build your own case of liquor or wine

Preston Motor Mart

Lottery Games

• • • • • • •

9:30am - 10pm Mon-sat Memorial - Labor Day Sold Here

Preston Liquor

Phone 507-765-2565 • Facebook.com/prestonliquor

ocated in bluff country along the banks of the Mississippi River, Red Wing is home to just over 16,000 residents. It has an abundance to offer, to residents and visitors alike. Well laid out hiking trails throughout the city parks are a great way to enjoy the fresh air or have a relaxing picnic. Barn Bluff and Memorial Park both offer stunning views of the entire city and nearby areas

Locally owned and operated by S&A Petroleum

Highway 52 & 16 in the center of Preston (507) 765-3330

811 Hwy. 52 North, Preston, MN (Next to Visitor’s Center)

Red Wing, MN

Hot Foods & Deli Convenience Store Movie Rentals Lottery Tickets Pay-At-Pump 24/7 Diesel Fuel LP Exchange

surrounding the mighty Mississippi. Red Wing also boasts a thriving art community, with countless ways to become involved in a variety of art forms. And let’s not forget there are numerous dining options. Home to the internationally famous Red Wing Shoes, this town is no stranger to hard work – many different industries make their home in Red Wing, and employment opportunities abound. With bald eagles nesting along its shores, historic buildings, technological innovations, and the American flag flying over the city – Red Wing really is a small slice of the American Dream.

CHEF DRIVEN LUNCH & DINNER CRAFT BEER - WINE - SPIRITS

STAGHEAD G A S T R O P U B

219 BUSH ST. RED WING, MN 55066 PH: 651.212.6494 WWW.THESTAGHEAD.COM RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED

Rushford, MN I 67

www.visitbluffcountry.com

ushford, rooted in a convergence of valleys etched along the Root River and Rush Creek waters, protected by towering bluffs, is an outdoor mecca. The landscape, sacred to indigenous Native American tribes, was recognized by early settlers for its life-sustaining splendor. The Southern Minnesota Railroad fueled the growth and progress of the city, forming an essential link to the area. A Legacy award recipient, the city is a bustling center for outdoor enthusiasts, art and history aficionados, families, and those looking for tranquility amid awe-inspiring natural wonders. Running through the heart of town, the Root River is one of the top 10 trout waters in Minnesota. Restored and protected by The Conservancy, the river and cold-water streams that feed it are known for exceptional brown, rainbow, and native brook trout, smallmouth and rock bass, sunfish, crappie, and channel catfish offerings. Rushford also offers fishing in the Rush Creek tributary, a designated stream of the meandering coulee, which flows through the city and merges with the Root. Up to 300 participants of all ages flock to the river’s edge on a Saturday in April for the annual Lipmasters Fishing Tournament. Off the beaten path, the Rushford Sand Barrens, part of the Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest, provides an array of rare plants and animals. Among the restored oak savanna is native prairie that is home to at least 13 unique species of flora, untold numbers of birds, and record whitetail deer. The area is primed for photography, hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Ferndale Ridge, off the Historic Bluff Country Scenic Byway, is a wildlife management area with abundant deer, turkey, pheasant, and

small game. The city’s crown jewel is Magelssen Bluff Park, soaring above the valley floor and bearing the city name in stone anchored on its south slope. Featuring limestone outcroppings and three scenic overlooks, the bluff offers an open panorama of the area for several miles. The winding road traversing the hillside to the summit invites visitors to tour the developed hiking trails, picnic areas, long-standing apple trees, and the Rushford Burr Oak tree. The massive, stout-limbed tree is estimated to be nearly 200 years old and is one of the largest trees in Minnesota. Visitors can enjoy the highly ranked 60-mile Root River State Trail. Joining this state trail is Rush Creek Trail, which runs along the side of the creek to Creekside Park. Rushford’s trailhead, the 1867 Southern Minnesota Railway Depot, now a museum, visitor center, and seat of the Rushford Area Historical Society, beckons you to step into the past. The Hanson cabin, 1890 Grinde Schoolhouse, 1867 Episcopal Chapel, and 1913 Jail House complete the attractive grounds. The park is the pride of the city, featuring the Veterans Memorial, paved walking trails, three pavilions, a gazebo, tennis and basketball courts, and skating rink and warming house in the winter. In its center is the custom and community-built playground structure, emulating the surrounding landscape and captivating the interest of children and adults. It is adjacent to the modern Ben Niggle Sports Complex, owned by RushfordPeterson Schools, which boasts a state-of-the-art running track and several ball fields. Visitors can follow Rush Creek Trail to CONTINUED ON PAGE 71

EAT I RELAX I ENJOY YOU’RE ALWAYS WELCOME! 400 S. Mill St. Rushford, MN 507-864-2878 myrushfordfoods.com Monday-Saturday 7am-9pm Sunday 8am-7pm

68 I Rushford, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Providing you great Values,

Savings and ● Full Hookups available ● Permanents available ● Located on the Root River Bike Trail ● One block from Downtown Restaurants and Shopping ●Two blocks from Root River access ● Adjacent to Highway 16 access

• RED WING Boots • Tube Sales • Fishing • RV Camping Supply

PER NIGHT

ComplETE Garden Center 888.384.7185 or CAMPGROUND OFFICE 507.450.4906 www.bluffviewcampground.com ©VBC

Mobile Banking u ATM Available

Friendly Service

Outdoor Sporting Goods & Supplies

• Weber Grills • Grilling supplies • Char-Broil Grills • Traeger Grills • RV and automotive supplies • Bird Feeders • pet Foods

Rushford Hardware m-F 7-7, SaT 8-5, SuN 10-3 | 402 S. mIll STREET, RuShFoRD, mN

Conveniently located by Rushford Foods 507-864-2540

www.visitbluffcountry.com

100 E. Jessie Street, Rushford, MN

507.864.2050 www.facebook.com/IlLuigiItalianRestaurant/

NEW Lunch & Dinner Menus FEATURED ENTREES: Swordfish, Tuna, Veal Scallopini, T-bone Steak and much, much more. We offer special Off-the-Menu Entrees. Featured Weekend Beers, Imported Wines & Cocktails

Reserve Special Occasions such as Wedding events, Birthdays, Prom, Graduation, Business events, Baby Showers & Banquets.

Rushford, MN I 69

70 I Rushford, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Restaurant & Lounge 507-864-7156 • www.stumpys.net 122 W. Jessie St., Rushford, MN

DAILY GRILL SPECIALS

Full Lunch & Dinner, Lite & Children’s Menus 32 Beers • Signature Liquors & Wines 220 Mill St. Rushford, MN • 507.864.2073 OPEN 11am TUESDAY-SUNDAY

Mon-Thurs 5:30am-10pm • Fri & Sat 5:30am-2am • Sun 7am-10pm

• Home-style Cooking • Pizza in house and to go • Ice cream & Desserts • Specialty Drinks & Off-SALE • Large variety of craft beers • Game Room Open for breakfast 5:30-11am 7 days a week

www.shawnees.net

Pam’s Off-Sale Liquor

Open EARLY at 4:00AM 7 Days a Week HUNTING & FISHING LICENSES SOLD HERE

NEW FLAVORBURST SOFT SERVE CONES! 8 flavors to choose from

Baked Fresh Daily... Muffins, Cookies, Donuts, and Pastries!

105 State Road 16, Rushford 507-864-7949

Monday-Saturday • 10am-10pm Sunday • 11am-6pm 507-864-7949 • 105 State Road 16, Rushford

Rushford/Rushford Village, MN I 71

www.visitbluffcountry.com

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 67

either the city’s Northend Campground or continue on, looping back to the Magelssen Bluff Hiking Trails. A stone’s throw from the latter, visitors will love the completely remodeled 1875 Hoiland Mill, representing the days of Minnesota’s wheat and flour production. Other historic sites in town include the 1870 Hanson Hardware Store (now an Italian restaurant), 1872 Rushford Wagon and Carriage Company, and 1859 Walker & 1861 Valentine House, part of the Minnesota Pioneer House Project. The 1922 brick Tew Memorial Library is home to city hall and public library. Rushford maintains many recreational possibilities. Take a dip at the Rushford Aquatic Center or golf a round at the 9-hole course east of town, bowl a few frames, or delight in the healing and relaxation of massage or infrared saunas, both in town. Flying in? Rushford Municipal Airport (55Y) is considered one of the best in the area with on-site fuel, aircraft parking, hangar leasing and sales, flight training passenger terminal and lounge, and courtesy transportation. Citywide festivals include Rushford Days, a week-long celebration the third week of July, and Taste of the Trail, the third Saturday after Labor Day. Unique to the area, a lefse factory noted in Food Network’s compilation of Great Food Gifts from 50 States offers an opportunity to view transform the potato dough to Norse delight, then enjoy the fresh-made lefse in addition to offering a number of other Scandinavian goodies and gifts, as well as a full menu in their café. When it’s time to rest, Rushford’s accommodations are equally plentiful: our motel, inn, campgrounds or a B&B are just the place to stay.

THE CREAMERY PIZZA & ICE CREAM

us o m a

407 S. Mill Street Rushford, MN 507-864-7214 www.the-creamery.com

he Town of Rushford was established in 1854. In 1869, the City of Rushford was formed as a separate area, removed from the Town. Later, the Town of Rushford was incorporated into a Village by a vote of the inhabitants. The Village of Rushford, surrounding Peterson and Rushford, Minn., became a city by a state law passed in 1973, which declared all villages to be cities. In May 1975, the name was officially changed to “City of Rushford Village.” The City of Rushford Village has an area of 33.64 square miles nestled in the Root River Valley between stunning bluffs and state forest land. The Historic Bluff Country National Scenic Byway, State Highway 16, runs through Rushford Village, much of it near the Root River State Bike Trail and along the Root River, which is used extensively for fishing, tubing and canoeing. Rushford Village is a blend of agriculture, small manufacturing, and small businesses. Community center and shelter rentals are available, as well as camping facilities.

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Birthday Parties receptions & Banquets and Thunder Alley

NORDIC LANES & LOUNGE 403 S. Mill Street, Rushford • 507-864-7799 • www.nordiclanes.com

72 I Rushford, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

REAL LEFSE AND FINE SCANDINAVIAN FOOD

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HARMONY • RUSHFORD 507-886-2255 507-864-2845

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EITZEN 507-495-3326

210 W. Jessie Street, Rushford,MN Mon-Fri 7-4 • Sat 7-2 Closed Sunday

More information and activities at www.rushfordpetersonvalley.com

2019 Events & Activities

Visitors Center • 401 S. Elm St., Rushford • 507-864-3338

MAY 17-19 SEMBA Bluegrass Festival JUNE-OCTOBER, WEDNESDAYS Valley Farmers Market JUNE 21-22 Trail Towns 60-Mile Garage Sale JUNE 22 Peterson Gammel Dag Fest JULY 7-JULY 28, SUNDAYS Music in the Peterson Bandstand JULY 15-21 Rushford Days JULY 17-21 RASA Theater production AUGUST 10 Rushford’s Root River Jams AUGUST 15-18 SEMBA Bluegrass Festival

AUGUST 17 Bluff Land Tri: Run, Bike, Hike

Experience Root River Bluff Country by trail or by water

SO MUCH TO DO AND SEE EXCELLENT VARIETY OF RESTAURANTS MOTELS. INNS, B&BS Loken's Rushford Inn • Windswept Inn • Andor Wenneson Inn • Sweet Dreams • Geneva's Hideaway CAMPGROUNDS

Cushon's Peak • Trailside • Bluffview • Peterson City • Rushford City

RushfordVillage/Spring Grove, MN I 73

www.visitbluffcountry.com

The Root River

The Root River maintains timelessness as it represents the fine scenic and historic qualities which are characteristic of southeastern Minnesota. The Root River has gentle to moderate flow with a few riffles. The water level varies substantially with rainfall. The river offers wonderful opportunities for family day trips, and towns along the river offer historical sights, services, and hospitality. Those who are more adventurous can take advantage of the canoe campsites for overnight trips. Water characteristics - The water flow on the Root River ranges from gentle to moderate. From Chatfield to the Mississippi River the river falls 310 feet for an average drop of 3.4 feet per mile. River levels peak in mid-March and once again in June. Though the watershed has many spring-fed clear water tributaries including the South Branch, the Root River is somewhat cloudy due to erosive soil types in the watershed. Landscape - Formed of two branches in the west, the North and Middle, the Root River winds past towering bluffs topped with oak and hickory. Joined above the town of Whalan by the South Branch, a tributary which flows from Mystery Cave, the river continues its way past bluffs and outcrops until Rushford. There the river straightens as the valley broadens considerably. The scenery then settles into a gentle plain of pastureland and mixed cottonwood and maple with wooded rolling hills visible in the distance. Fish and wildlife - There are many species of fish inhabiting the river including smallmouth bass, channel catfish, rock bass, sunfish, crappies, and rough fish. Most of these can be found in the active stretches of pooled areas of the river. Brown trout can be found in the clearer and colder spring-fed streams, as well as the western end of the South Branch. All anglers fishing in the designated trout waters are required to have a current trout stamp. The Root River supports over 40 species of birds. It is quite common to see blue herons, egrets, and wood ducks moving about the river’s edge. Raptors in the area include redtailed hawks, osprey, turkey vultures, and bald eagles. Wooded shores harbor mammals such as deer, gray fox, red fox, coyotes, raccoons, woodchucks, squirrels, weasels, and badgers. River otters and beaver can be found in the water. Lizards such as the skink, racerunner, and many species of snakes, including the timber rattlesnake, can be found along the banks and outcrops. Cultural Information - This area served as a gateway for cultures moving north. The “Mississippian Tradition,” a striking example of cultural development, moved northward about A.D. 900 to 1000. They farmed the fertile bottom land and built terraces above the rivers. In the 1640’s, with the onset of European exploration, France claimed this part of the “New World.” The newly formed United States, in turn, bought it from France as part of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. The native Dakota Indians continued to inhabit the land until the 1852 Treaty of Traverse de Sioux forced their removal, thus opening the door for further expansion. Soon hardwood stands were cleared and fields were cultivated. Development of water resources and poor land management led to a negative impact on the area’s environment. Catastrophic erosion gradually led the people of southeastern Minnesota to initiate wiser use of the land. Eventually the state established what is now known as the Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest to restore and prescribe sound multi-use land practices.

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Spring Grove, MN

pring Grove has much to boast about! An outdoor swim center, artists gallery and a musical at the opera house every July. Outdoor enthusiasts may also enjoy the tennis courts, playgrounds, nature park, and the horse trail. Spring Grove celebrates its Norwegian Heritage with Syttende Mai in May. Bring the entire family for the parade, shopping, carnival and more! When fall arrives, come back for the UFF DA Fest, Christmas in the Village and the Festival of Trees — the Friday after Thanksgiving. Enjoy a meal at a traditional cafe or soda fountain restaurant. Of course, there’s shopping for everything from Norwegian wear and gifts to flowers to antiques. Then, spend the night at the motel or park overnight in Trollskogen Park. But, don’t leave town without a Spring Grove pop!

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74 I Spring Grove, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Minnesotaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s F irst Norwegieannt Sett le m SPRINGGROVEMN.COM

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Spring Grove, MN I 75

www.visitbluffcountry.com

100% Fiber Network • Ultra-FAST Broadband • Cable TV • Telephone Service Spring Grove Communications • Computer Repair Technicians 166 West Main Street Spring Grove, MN 55974 • Medical Alert System www.yourlocal.coop 507-498-3456

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76 I Spring Grove, MN

NORWEGIAN FOODS KIDS GAMES TØFF NORSK CHALLENGE MOTOCROSS QUILT SHOW & WINE TASTING NATURE WALK A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

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JC NERSTAD & DAVE HANNER • 507-498-9000 SPRINGGROVEAUCTIONS.COM • CONSIGN@SPRINGGROVEAUCTIONS.COM

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Spring Grove Lions Club

Ivy Grove Cafe 101 West Main Street Spring Grove, MN 55974 507-498-5450

Business Hours:

Sun. 7:30am - 1pm Mon. Closed Tues. 7:30am - 7pm Wed. 7:30am - 7pm Thurs. 7:30am - 1:30pm Fri. & Sat. 7:30am - 7 pm

Community Proud!

GoodTheoleSpring homeGrove cookin’, daily Lions Club is proud to support Syttende Mai too. Celebration, specials, and we cater, Spring Grove Athletics , Music in the Park,

OPEN SWIM 1-6 Mon - Sunday 7-9 Friday Nights June 6 – August Opening June19 7

UffDa Fest, SG Fire Department, along with many other community not-for-profits.

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Call 507-498-3456 for more info SS

Come visit HIS Business Seeking to honor God Who loved so much He gave His Son and His Word, HIS Business is centered upon Scripture plaques we craft from native hardwoods. Distinctive stained glass, wood, and natural fiber items, all locally handmade comprise our products including sweaters to cedar chests and more.

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www.visitbluffcountry.com

ictorial Spring Valley, Minn., lies along the Historic Bluff Country National Scenic Byway. On the western edge of Fillmore County, this stagecoach and railroad boom town was named one of Midwest Living’s “25 Ultimate Fall Drives.” The town has a history as rich as the views. An abundant number of Spring Valley sites are landmarks on the National Register of Historic Places. Dotting the downtown, visitors will find the elaborate 1871 Parsons Block and Hall, 1874 Commercial House Hotel, 1877 Victorian gothic-style Ephraim Steffens House, 1879 William Strong House, and the 1904 Carnegie Library, a symbol of the town’s early progress. Art and culture also abound in Spring Valley. Just five miles north of town, the 1871 Tunnel Mill has found new life. The former gristmill, which was powered by a tunnel shortcutting a bend in the creek, is the last surviving representative of Minnesota’s milling industry in the county. Today, it’s home to a blacksmith shop and traditional iron works that offers a variety of metal working classes, character-laden gypsy wagons, occasional special event tours of area iron ore mines, and camping, even in the wagons. Each fall, the mill hosts a gathering, featuring various art and metal displays and demonstrations, as well as a wine and cheese social. The Brave Community Theatre and Braveheart Theatre, in production for more than 40 years, is proud to be one of the oldest self-supporting community theatres in Minnesota. The troupe highlights comedy, drama, musical, and original

Spring Valley, MN I 77

productions, as well as Theatre for Kids. Likely the most recognized historical draw in Spring Valley are the Laura Ingalls Wilder sites and museum, housed in the Spring Valley Historical Society Museum in the former Methodist church attended by the Wilder family in the 1890s. The collection encompasses a vast amount, including personal mementos of the family’s life. Displays of various inventors and business people who lived in Spring Valley are also on hand, including Richard Sears, of Sears & Roebuck fame; Bernard Pietenpol, the father of experimental aircraft, Dr. Henry Plummer, founder of Mayo Clinic; and more. Adjacent to the museum is the 1866 Washburn-Zittleman House Museum, featuring 12 exhibit areas, an ag complex, and History Hall. Looking for the excitement of speed? Just outside of town, you’ll find a fantastic speedway, covering more than 60 acres. A state-of-the-art racing complex, it showcases an average of 30 events a year, some of the biggest in the country, the speedway thrills with racing on its high banked, dirt/clay track. Other amenities include 24 VIP suites, 36 VIP decks, total seating capacity up to 8,000, slingshot track dubbed “Button Buck Speedway” for younger racers, and a fullservice campground. Other lodging accommodation choices include a motel, cabins and a 500-acre village retreat containing a collection of winterized cabins and themed areas ideal for gatherings. Dining and shopping options are as varied as the rest of the CONTINUED ON PAGE 78

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town’s conveniences, like scrumptious bakery treats, saloons, the town-favorite pizza place, and a popular drive-in, complete with car hops and service with a smile. You can enjoy bowling or visit South Park, which features a solar-heated swimming pool, picnic area with shelters, playground, basketball, tennis and volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, and ball fields. Willow Park, in the heart of downtown, boasts the Spring Valley Walking Trail and Spring Creek. Newly expanded, the trail offers 2.58 miles of walking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or snowmobiling and the stream is prime trout water. It plays host to portions of the town’s big August celebration, Ag Days.

www.GoodEarthVillage.org I 507.346.2494

Faith-Based Summer Camps I Facility Rentals I Year Round

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17643 121st Ave. • 4.5 miles South of Spring Valley on Hwy 63

We Also Carry:

Dog & Cat Food, MoorMan’s Mineral, Cattle Mineral & Salt, Bird Seed & Much More! Green Mountain Grills & Smoker Pellets

Hours:

Monday-Friday: 7-5:30 Saturday: 8-3 Closed Sundays EBT Customers Welcome

www.odyscountrymeats.com

Spring Valley, MN I 79

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Visit The Valley

City of Spring Valley • 201 S. Broadway 507-346-7367 • springvalley.govoffice.com

Spring Valley, MN

Located in the midsection of SE Minnesota’s agricultural heartland, Spring Valley indulges visitors of all types, whether stopping for supplies or seeking a weekend away from home. Touch centuries of history, starting with a tour of Mystery Cave and the 1800s inspired village of Forestville. Continue with a visit to the 1876 Methodist Church Museum, a Laura Ingalls Wilder site and one of seven Spring Valley sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Enjoy small town charm with all its amenities, including blue ribbon trout streams, several parks, paved bike trails, and our own Good Earth Village.

Events

Ag Days Celebration (August 13-18)

37th Annual Root River Antique Engine And Tractor Show (July 19-21, 2019)

Spring Valley farmers played an essential role in developing area land into Minnesota’s most important industry. We celebrate their efforts during AG Days with fun for the entire family, including A&W Cruise Night, Grand Parade, Little Huskers 1K race, Street Dance featuring “Time Machine”, Food, Fireworks, Spring Creek Market, Tractor Show, Vintage Baseball, Bean Bag Tournament, Fishing Contest, Brave Community Theatre Play and more. springvalleychamberofcommerce.com

Featuring Allis Chalmers Tractors and equipment, Vintage Trucks http://rootrivershow.org

Local Museums

Things to do

Washburn Zittleman House Exhibit & 1876 Historic Methodist Church Museum. Almanzo and Laura Ingalls Wilder attended this church in 1890-91. Now on the National Historic Register. Two floors of exhibits include the Wilder photo display, Conley camera collection, Richard Sears exhibit and more from that era. See an original Pietenpol Aircamper at the Ag Building. 507-346-7659, 220-221 West Courtland. www.springvalleymnmuseum.org

Forestville / MysteryCave State Park

One of Minnesota’s finest parks. Home to 13-mile long Mystery Cave and the pioneer town of Forestville, the park is rich in both history and natural resources, trout streams, hiking, picnicking, camping or horseback riding. Historic Forestville is an 1850s village that was a part of the founding of SE Minn. 507-352-5111 • 507-937-3251 • www.mnhs.org/places/sites/hf/

Four Daughters Vineyard & Winery Modern Wine. Modern Feel. Ancient Idea. Four Daughters Vineyard and Winery is the perfect location for locals, visitors, and tourists. Located adjacent to Minnesota’s bluff country and just down the road from the Mayo Clinic, the winery is close to the city but far from hustle and bustle. The culture is a blend of Minnesota-nice and casual elegance. The winery features a full menu created by one of the area’s premier chefs. www.fourdaughtersvineyard.com • 507-346-7300

Walking/Biking Trail & Spring Creek Trout Stream

Spring Valley has a paved walking trail and trout steam that runs through the heart of the town. springvalley.govoffice.com. S&S Bait Shop can help with all your bait, tackle and licenses. 507-346-7121

Good Earth Village

GEV offers many day experiences & training events, summer youth camping, family programs, campground & year round retreating. 507-346-2494 info@goodearthvillage.org

South Park & Spring Valley Pool Enjoy local recreation. Includes 3 -12 ft. swimming pool and zero degree entry baby pool, playground equipment, picnic pavilions, 2 ball diamonds, 2 tennis courts, basketball, sand volleyball. Located on Hwy 63 and Co. Rd. 12.

Lodging

Overnight Camper Parking

Located by bike trail and trout stream, past trout farm on Cty. Rd. 8. 13 sites plus electric. 507-346-7367 Deer Creek Speedway and Campground

America’s Best Value Inn and Suites

1-888-254-6835 www.springvalleyinnsuites.com Located on a National Scenic Byway, Spring Valley Inn and Suites is just 27 miles from Rochester and the Mayo Clinic- close enough to be convenient, but far enough away to offer guests the charm of a small town.

Late Model, Super Stocks, Midwest Mods and Street Stocks race every Saturday night on the high banked 3/8 dirt oval track, located west of Spring Valley on U.S. Hwy 63. Visit wwwdeercreekspeedway.com for the 2019 schedule. For camping call 507-346-2342

80 I Spring Valley, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Spring Valley Minnesota

Join us August 13-18 in Spring Valley

for AG Days!

Community Theatre, Dance Cruise Night, Parade, & More

Join us December 7 in Spring Valley Your Community that supports Business and Community Livability and Vitality!

for Christmas on Historic Broadway

www.springvalleychamberofcommerce.com NEW CONSTRUCTION $5,000 HOUSING INCENTIVE Business start - up/Expansion Incentive Up to $1,300 in Rent Subsidy per Business Business Incentives available thru the EDA, including opportunities in the expanded industrial park.

Details on our website or call EDA Director: Cathy Enerson 507-346-7367

www.springvalleyeda.org

This institution is an equal opportunity provider

Check website for guidelines and qualifications for all EDA programs

Wine

Beer

Liquor

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Ice

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501 N. Park Drive Spring Valley, MN

OPEN DAILY 7:00AM - 9:00PM

FULL SERVICE GROCERY STORE www.sunshinefoodstores.com

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Spring Valley, MN 507-346-1979

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Voted

Best Fish Fry Best Sports Bar

Spring Valley, MN I 81

Spring Valley CheVrOlet BuiCk

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507-346-7337

120 E. GranT STrEET • SPrinG VallEy, Mn 55975

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507.259.3557

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CLEANED TWICE DAILY • HOT, SOFT WATER

82 I Spring Valley/Winona, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

STOP IN AND TEST DRIVE ONE TODAY

Winona, MN

E Spring Valley liVing 800 Memorial Drive Spring Valley, Mn 55975

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Housing with Services • Care Center Home Health • Therapy • Post Acute Care Wing

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xpansive panoramas, stately bluffs rising against the edges of thick, forested valleys, and in the middle of it all, a city on a massive sandbar along the powerful Mississippi River. Winona is a quintessential river city rich in history, culture, arts, architecture, and natural beauty. Home to the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife & Fish Refuge, the river provides a backdrop for limitless wildlife — literally millions of birds — and aquatic life on the Mississippi River Flyway. At Great River Bluffs State Park, dense hardwood forests and native wildflower prairies frame the valley below. Named one of the “Best Places to See Fall Color” by CBS Minnesota, it’s no wonder why it has also been chosen one of National Geographic’s “World’s Greatest Driving Tours.” Looking out from the highest vantage point, 450-feet above the city, is the famous Sugar Loaf landmark, which resulted from limestone quarrying in the 1880s. Native American legend ties the site to the well-known cap of Dakota Nation Chief Wapahasha, turned to stone. Outdoor enthusiasts will be keen to hike trails up the bluff to its base, offering a dramatic view point. Across the bluff, sits Garvin Heights Park with inspiring outlooks, hiking, and restored goat prairies. Below, encircling Lake Winona, is Lake Park, home to the C.A. Rohrer Rose Garden, Veterans Memorial Park and Bandshell. Levee Park allows an upclose encounter with the Mississippi River. Occasionally, paddlewheel and other historic riverboats still dock here. The city’s origins and the wealth that swept the area are obvious in the lavish architecture. Walking tours of historic homes, churches, banks, and courthouse highlight the culture of early settlers. Astounding glass art within the city has earned Winona the designation of Stained Glass Capital of the U.S. Attractions such as the Minnesota Marine Art Museum, Polish Cultural Institute and Museum, Watkins Heritage Museum, and Winona County History Center continue the storytelling of Winona’s past and present. Fine and performing arts thrive in Winona. Area artisans’ diverse works are showcased in a variety of places, and many of the artists participate in the Bluff Country Studio Arts Tour. Theatre du Mississippi, a professional company, the Performance Center at St. Mary’s University, Winona State University Arts, Theatre, & Dance, and Valencia Arts Center continue to grow the development and production of arts programs. CONTINUED ON PAGE 83

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Weekend and extended festivals have become a popular draw to Winona. Mid West Music Fest (April), Dixieland Jazz Festival (June), Minnesota Beethoven Festival (June-July), six-week Great River Shakespeare Festival (June-August), Boats and Bluegrass Festival (September), and Frozen River Film Festival (February), beckon visitors to not only enjoy the arts, but to participate. The Great Dakota Gathering, (September), honors the native people who inhabit this land. Created with sacred stonework and native prairie plantings, the site sets the stage for the Wacipi (pow wow), Akicita (warrior/veterans) Honor Ceremony, educational exhibits and demonstrations, and authentic crafts, arts, and foods celebrating the rich heritage of the people. The Great River Road Wine Trail rests in the Upper Mississippi River Valley American Viticulture Area, the nation’s largest. A vineyard sits atop the bluff outside the city, producing choice wines from cold climate grapes grown on the farm and finished in oak barrels of native Minnesota oak. The Winona area also boasts two craft breweries. Minnesota’s best bakery, as voted in 2013, is located in Winona. Other delightful culinary options range from baked goods to thriving coffee spots and cafés, gourmet dining overlooking a golf course, and ethnic restaurants. For fun, historic fare, visitors can’t beat a stop at the local drive-in, complete with homemade root beer and friendly carhop service. Throughout the city, shops and boutiques offer up everything from antiques and collectibles to music and books, and specialty boutiques to recreational retailers outfitters. Ample hotels, B&Bs, cabins, cottages, lodges, guesthouses, and campgrounds make lodging in Winona a simple matter of choice.

Get a new outfit for only

EvEry day is a

SALE DAY at thE ClothEs shoP!

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The Clothes Shop

A thrift store supporting Winona Vonunteer Services www.winonavs.org

507.452.5591 • 416 E. 2nd St. at Winona Volunteer Services Shopping & Donations Hours: Mon - Fri, 9am-5pm • Thurs, 9am-6pm • Sat, 10am-1pm

“MAGICAL.” An experience not to be missed.

For over fifteen years, GREAT RIVER SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL (GRSF) has been delighting audiences from all over the country with “poignant, intimate, and funny” theater experiences. Praised as “the best live theater for a thousand miles”, GRSF offers productions for visitors of all ages, free outdoor concerts and events, and much more - all in the idyllic Mississippi River town of Winona, Minnesota. So join us, won’t you? No homework required.

Season 16: June 25 - August 4, 2019

grsf.org | 507.474.7900

84 I Winona, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

See our historic Solidarity Banner signed by World Leaders 1023 sugar loaf rd Winona, mn 55987

FREE ADMISSION PUBLIC WELCOME Open: Year round Monday-Saturday 10am to 3pm Sunday - closed 102 Liberty Street, Winona, MN 507.454.3431 info@polishmuseumwinona.org www.polishmuseumwinona.org

OPEN

Thursday - Monday 10:00am - 5:00pm

507-474-7030

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Call the Hotel Direct for Details & Rock-Bottom Rates!

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• Seating for up to 20 people in livingroom • Full Kitchen • Full Bath • Queen-sized bedroom • Ideal for wedding parties, bridal showers, birthdays, family get-togethers, meetings, etc. • Pet Friendly rooms available (pet fees apply, must mention at time of booking) • Meeting room available for up to 30 people. (fees apply)

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Winona, MN I 85

86 I Winona/Wykoff, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Horseback Riding Daily Guided Trails, Lessons, Camps, Clinics, Training, Best Stabling, Indoor & Outdoor Arena

Ranch 507-454-3305 By Appt. Sue 507-459-2534 Ask for our FREE Brochure!

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WINONA COUNTY’S STORIED PAST 160 Johnson Street Winona, Minnesota 507.454.2723

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Winery&&Event EventCenter Center Winery

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Tasting & Sale Hours Tasting & Sales Hours

May - October, Tues - Sun: 10am - 6pm

May - October 10am - 6pm Tues - Sun April, November, Fri -- Sun: 12 -&5pm April, November,December, December 1pm 5 pm Sat Sun 2255 Garvin Hts. Rd. Winona, MN Ridgeview Event Center 507.474.WINE(9463) • ghvwine.com accommodates your group of up to 100

22076 E. Burns Valley Rd. • Winona, MN 55987 www.bigvalleyranch.winona-mn.us

Wykoff, MN

hen you visit the heart of Bluff Country, take the drive on Minnesota Highway 80 and you will find Wykoff, a little town with a lot of German pride. The village was founded in 1881 by Cyrus Wykoff, founder of the area’s railroad. Wykoff is the gateway to Forestville State Park, and only eight miles from the Root River Bike Trail. Visit Ed’s Museum, a former Jack Sprat grocery store owned by Ed Krueger, Wykoff’s historian and self appointed collector of Wykoff memorabilia. Wykoff’s School Museum is attached to Ed’s, a great place to reminisce about one’s school years. You can find unique lodging in the original 1913 City Jail. Restored, the former jail now serves as an eye-catching and surprisingly restful B&B, complete with all-brick construction and bars on the windows. On Gold Street, stroll through the Wykoff Veterans Memorial to reflect on the many who have served our country. Constructed in 2016, this has become an area of great community pride. A great time to visit Wykoff is during the Fall Fest Celebration, which takes place every fourth weekend in September, sponsored by the Wykoff Area Historical Society.

ADVERTISE WITH US! Call 1-800-599-0481

Stop in for some MN Nice

The Gateway Mon., Tues., Wed., Thurs., Sat.: 7am-4pm Friday: 7am-9pm Sunday: 7am-3pm

2255 Garvin Hts. Rd. Winona, MN 507.474.WINE(9463) • ghvwine.com

118 N Gold St Wykoff, MN 507-352-4221

Wykoff, MN I 87

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Denny’s Trailer Sales is a family owned and operated business established in 1986, and located summer camp E expe DGY3.5 miles north of Wykoff, Minnesota, by the Play! in the Barn • performances bluff riences in Family Owned & Operated Since 1986 customer coun village of Fillmore. We take pride in our try! Summer Solstice • dance party service and satisfaction in this low-pressure Onion Fest • food + performance atmosphere. We have a large selection of trailers PIZZA • every Friday night, June – Sept! 18880 County 8, Wykoff, MN 20 with over Road repair facility as well as a full-service of selection large a have We years of experience. Denny's Trailer Sales is a family owned and operated business Denny’s new andinused. horse and stock trailers, established 1986, and located 3.5 miles north of Wykoff, organic farm rural arts initiativehas several excellentMinnesota, with finance companies by the village of Fillmore. We take pride in our service and satisfaction in this low-pressure financing. up to 180 months competitive rates and customer

Denny's Trailer Sales 507-352-5491

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atmosphere. We have a large selection of trailers as well as a full-service repair facility, with over 20 years of experience. We have a large selection of horse and stock trailers, new and Motto: Our used. Denny's has several excellent finance companies with competitive rates and up to 180 months financing. after care of the customer

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Open Bluff Country Monday – Friday 8am to 5pm Saturday 8am to noon

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visitbluffcountry.com

est Town to Forestville State Park er, Shopping, Antiques, Fishing & Hunting License

Open: Mon-Fri: 8am-5pm • Saturday: 8am-12

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WYKOFF, MN

Open Memorial Day Weekend Until Last Weekend in September 1:00 to 4:00 Sat. & Sun. Nearest Town to Forestville State Park Or by appointment (507)696�1766 Gas, Food, Beer, Shopping, Antiques, Fishing & Hunting

Gateway to Forestville State Park

Nearest Town to Forestville State Park License Gas, Food, Beer, Shopping, Antiques, Fishing & Hunting License

2019 Nearest Town to Forestville State Park Gas, Food, Beer, Shopping, Antiques, Fishing & Hunting License

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For Reservations Call (507)696-1766 Or (507)352-4011

City of Wykoff 217 North Gold Street Wykoff, MN 55990 507�352�4011 http://www.wykoff.govoffice2.com/

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Nearest Town to Forestville State Park

Open Memorial Day Weekend Until Last

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217 North Gold Street 1:00 to 4:00 For More Information Call Wykoff, MN 55990 Sat. & Sun. Septembe 507�352�4011 Or by507�352�4011 appointment (507)696�1766 http://www.wykoff.govoffice2.com/ For Mo 5

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September 27,28,29 2019 For more info call 507-352-4011

88 I Wykoff, MN

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Custom Orders Welcome Handmade Artisan Leather Shop Leather Classes Available Call or Text 507-459-3546

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Pool • Darts Pizza • Pull Tabs • E-Tabs 113 Gold St. N., Wykoff, MN • 507-352-2281

Minnesota Area Visitor Centers CALEDONIA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 120 South Kingston Caledonia, MN 55921 507-725-5477 • 877-439-4893 caledoniachamberofcommerce.com

LANESBORO AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 100 Milwaukee Rd. Lanesboro, MN 55949 507-467-2696 • 800-944-2670 lanesboro.com

CHATFIELD TOURIST INFORMATION CENTER 16 Second Street SE Chatfield, MN 55923 507-867-3966 ci.chatfield.mn.us

LEROY VISITOR INFORMATION 122 W. Main St. LeRoy, MN 55951 507-324-5707 visitleroy.com

CITY OF FOUNTAIN 104 Main St., P.O. Box 115 Fountain, MN 55935 507-268-4923 bluffcountry.com/fountain.html HARMONY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 15 2nd St. NW Harmony, MN 55939 877-251-0606 exploreharmony.com HOUSTON AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE P.O. Box 3 Houston, MN 55943 507-896-4668 houstonmnchamber.com CITY OF KELLOGG P.O. Box 147, Kellogg, MN 507-767-4953 cityofkellogg.org

shooter’s Bar

CITY OF MABEL PO Box 311 Mabel, MN 55954 507-493-5350 cityofmabel.com PETERSON STATION MUSEUM AND VISITOR CENTER 233 Mill St, PO Box 233 Peterson, MN 55962 507-875-2415 or 507-875-2267 petersonmn.org PRESTON AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE P.O. Box 123 Preston, MN 55965 507-421-8911 prestonmnchamber.com PRESTON AREA TOURISM PO Box 657 Preston, MN 55965 507-765-2100 • 888-845-2100 prestonmn.org

• Snacks • Groceries • Automotive • Sandwiches M-F 6am-9pm • Sat. 7am-9pm • Sun. 8am-9pm • ATM Machine • Greeting Cards Over 350 Videos to choose from • LP Tank Exchange • Fishing/Hunting License 507-352-2421 • Night Crawlers 104 E Front St., Wykoff, MN • DNR Approved Firewood

RICHLAND CENTER VISITOR CENTER 397 W. Seminary St Richland Center, WI 53581 608-649-3376 richlandcentertourism.com RUSHFORD PETERSON VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 305 S. Elm St. Rushford, MN 55971 507-864-3338 rushfordpetersonvalley.com

SPRING VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 201 S. Broadway Spring Valley, MN 55975 507-346-1015 springvalleychamberofcommerce.com WABASHA/KELLOGG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 160 W. Main St. Wabasha, MN 55981 651-565-4158 wabashamn.org

SE MN HISTORIC BLUFF COUNTRY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 303 S. Elm St. Rushford, MN 55971 507-864-2992 • 800-428-2030 bluffcountry.com

WINONA AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 67 Main St. Winona, MN 55987 507-452-2272 • 800-565-4158 winonachamber.com

SPRING GROVE (Apr-Nov) Ballard House Antiques PO Box 241 • 507-498-5434 (Dec-Mar) City Hall • PO Box 218 507-498-5221 Spring Grove, MN 55974 springgrovemn.com

VISIT WINONA - VISITOR CENTER 924 Huff St. Winona, MN 55987 507-452-2278 visitwinona.com WYKOFF TOURIST INFORMATION CENTER P.O. Box 205 Wykoff, MN 55990 507-352-4205

www.visitbluffcountry.com

MN Area Map & Scenic Byway I 89

90 I MN Trout Fishing Map

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

SOUTHEASTERN MINNESOTA TROUT STREAMS The streams of southeastern Minnesota are very different from North Shore streams. Most rise from springs and thus are cool in summer. The limestone and alluvial soils in drainages make the streams hard, nonacidic, alkaline and very productive. Whereas the North Shore streams have relatively few aquatic insects, the southeast streams produce frequent hatches of mayflies, caddis flies and midges-all providing food for trout. Nonetheless, southeast trout streams do have problems, most related to agriculture. Fence-to-fence grain farming on the uplands and pasturing of the river bottoms contribute

to land erosion and sedimentation of the streambeds. This fine sediment covers the gravel runs and riffles that trout need to spawn and invertebrates need to survive. The clearing of shoreline trees takes away the underwater root wads and fallen trees in which trout find cover from current and predators. Finally, many of these streams simply arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t very large, and large trout find little cover. So, while the best of these streams may produce up to 300 pounds of fish per acre-excellent production by any measure-18-inchers may be scarce except as figments of the imagination. CONTINUED ON PAGE 91

www.visitbluffcountry.com

MN Trout Fishing Map I 91

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 90

Because the chemistry and productivity of these streams are good, trout respond well to some kinds of habitat improvement. For example, the use of planks and boulders to build artificial overhanging banks increases big-fish cover, as does the placement of boulders in channel. Riprap prevents bank erosion. Wing dams and other current deflectors keep silt from key areas. Brown trout are the trout best suited to the southeast streams. In the best of these rivers, such as Trout Run (in Winona and Fillmore counties), browns are self-sustaining. In other streams, such as the South Branch of the Whitewa-

ter, natural reproduction is augmented with stocking. In a few streams, spawning habitat is extremely limited, and the trout fishery is maintained entirely by stocking. Most people fishing these streams would regard a 14-inch brown as large, though some trout occasionally exceed eight pounds. Some small southeast tributaries support wild brook trout; other streams are stocked with brookies. Some strains of rainbow trout have been tried in these creeks. Unfortunately, rainbows tend to migrate to larger, less suitable water so success with this species has been limited. Source: http://www.dnr.state. mn.us/index.html

92 I MN Area Map & Scenic Byway

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Scenic Byways in Bluff Country

The National Scenic Byways Program is part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration. The program is a grass-roots collaborative effort established to help recognize, preserve and enhance selected roads throughout the United States. Since 1992, the National Scenic Byways Program has provided funding for almost 1,500 state and nationally designated byway projects in 48 states. The U.S. Secretary of Transportation recognizes certain roads as All-American Roads or National Scenic Byways based on one or more archeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational and scenic qualities.

Historic Bluff Country • National Scenic Byway 88-mile route on Minnesota Hwy 16 between Dexter and La Crescent

The Historic Bluff Country Scenic Byway links together some of the most scenic, historic, cultural, natural and recreational resources in the area. Traveling through small towns and quaint communities along the byway, visitors find attractions that include restaurants, art galleries, theaters, antique shops, museums, historic homes and sites, state parks, lodging, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, biking, cross country skiing, golfing, horseback riding, and trout fishing. The Root River offers water recreation while the Root River & the Harmony-Preston Valley State Bicycle Trails offer miles of variety for users.

Shooting Star Scenic Byway

32-mile drive along Hwy 56 between Hwy 63 at Chester, Iowa and I-90

This byway is one of the state’s first designated wildflower routes. The Minnesota DOT and Natural Resources manage wildflowers and native grasses along the route, which passes through rich agricultural regions and small towns with historic buildings, B&Bs, golf courses, swimming pools and city parks. Lake Louise State Park is located on this route.

Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Highway

From Rochester south on US 63 to Spring Valley, follow MN 16 & US 52 to the Iowa border to Burr Oak

Travel the scenic route that Laura wrote about in the Little House series. Almanzo and Laura Ingalls Wilder attended the 1876 church in Spring Valley 1890-1891. See the Wilder photo display, old-time Country Store, and pioneer artifacts. Visit the Masters Hotel in Burr Oak, Iowa, where Charles Ingalls and his family lived and worked in 1876. This is “the missing link” between the times they lived in Walnut Grove.

Apple Blossom Scenic Byway

1.5 mi S of I-90 to Main St in La Crescent. W to Elm St., follow Cty Hwy 29

One of the most beautiful scenic overlooks in Minnesota, this 17-mile driving route follows County Hwy 29. Accessible from the towns of La Crescent, Dakota and Nodine, this loop provides great views from bluff tops along the Mississippi River Valley in SE Minnesota.

Amish Byway

Along Hwy 52 between Hwy 16, Preston and Hwy 44 at Prosper

The growing Amish community is concentrated in the area around Canton and Harmony and they are frequent users of Hwy 52 between Preston and Prosper. Most of the Amish farmsteads are on country roads. Drive carefully and please, take no photographs of the buggies that would include Amish faces. (Amish do not like photographs taken of their faces.)

For more information on Scenic Byways visit www.byways.org or www.bluffcountry.com

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MN Area Map & Scenic Byway I 93

Nelson

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94 I Burr Oak/Charles City, IA

urr Oak, a little town on Highway 52, is known to most people as Laura Ingalls Wilder’s childhood home. The town invites you to learn about the birth of Grace here, and the places where Laura Ingalls Wilder grew and developed her love of books and words — where stories flowed from the tombstones of Burr Oak pioneers in the cemetery where Laura and her friend Alice found solace in the quiet of summer afternoons on the hill by the Advent Church. Burr Oak invites you to come and see the view from the hotel that Pa managed while the Ingalls family lived and worked here -- the view of Silver Creek that still flows as it did when the Ingalls girls waded in it. Little imagination is needed to see Laura’s footprints all around Burr Oak, mixed with those of the people who have come to see the places that helped to grow America’s gem of literature and history. At the Burr Oak museum you’ll enjoy seeing Laura’s historic home, the beautiful area and all of the attractions on this state line area.

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Laura Ingalls Wilder Park and Museum

June 22, 2019 • Laura Day CeLebration! 563-735-5916 • 3603 236th Ave • Burr Oak, IA 52101 museum@lauraingallswilder.us • www.lauraingallswilder.us • Visitor Center/Gift Shop • Shelter House • Playground

Guided tours of the Masters Hotel Laura’s only childhood home still on its original site.

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Charles City, IA

xperience the rich art, history and community spirit that Charles City, Iowa has to offer! Charles City has a list of titles, as a Main Street Iowa Community, an Iowa Great Place, a STAR Community and more. The city is one of Iowa’s eight original Cultural & Entertainment Districts, featuring the art deco Charles Theatre and the Carnegie Library, now known as the Charles City Arts Center. More artwork from local regional and national artists can be seen on the Public Art walking tour, while the Mooney Collection showcases pieces created by Rembrandt, Picasso, Grant Wood and Salvador Dali. The community is the birthplace of the gasoline-powered tractor and the girlhood home of suffragette Carrie Lane Chapman Catt, who is today considered a prominent historical figure in the context of women’s rights. Iowa’s first whitewater park and kayak course is located on the Cedar River in downtown Charles City, along with adjacent Riverfront Park. Join in on the fun for a year-round calendar of events, including summer favorites such as Party in the Park, Whitewater Weekend and the July 4th Celebration. Charles City residents are always ready to roll out the welcome mat for visitors! Visit our website at www.charlescitychamber.com, find us or Facebook ChuckTown: Charles City, Iowa or follow us on Twitter @CharlesCityIA to stay up to date with all the latest information. We welcome you to visit any time of year!

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Charles City/Clermont, IA I 95

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Clermont, IA

lermont, Iowa, located in the beautiful hills of northeast Iowa, is a small town located in the valley on the banks of the Turkey River. Its most popular attractions include the Clermont Museum, Heritage Farm Park, Lincoln Park, the Larabee Building, and the Montauk Historic Site. The Turkey River flows through the town and is utilized for activities such as canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and fishing. Bike trails offer the chance for bikers, joggers, walkers, and bird watchers to fully enjoy the lush countryside. In winter, crosscountry skiers and snow shoers get a chance to trek the trail, and this is also a prime place to enjoy the outdoors on a vast, expansive network of snowmobile trails. Hunting draws outdoor sportsmen to the surrounding wooded areas as they take their shot at the perfect whitetail deer or wild turkey. Not only is nature good for taking your best hunting shot, but photographers come to capture the wildlife, too. Founded in 1949, Clermont has become a historic town with eight listings on the National Register of Historic Places. You can find more information on our website: www.clermontia.org and on Facebook.

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MONTAUK HISTORIC SITE Tour the historic home of Iowa’s 12th governor, William Larrabee and his wife Anna Larrabee 26223 Harding Road Clermont, Iowa 52135 563.423.7173

iowahistory.org

Open Daily, 12–4 p.m.

Open Fri.–Sun., 12–4 p.m.

Memorial Day–Labor Day

Labor Day–Oct. 31

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96 I Cresco, IA

ave you ever been to Cresco, Iowa? Well, if not, it’s time you visit! Located in northeast Iowa, Cresco offers landscape designed for all four seasons and a variety of activities to engage all participants. Whether resident or visitor, we’ve got something for everyone! Tour the Boyhood Farm and Birthplace of Dr. Norman Borlaug and see why this gentle man is only one of seven people in the world to ever be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, the Congressional Gold Medal, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Dr. Borlaug is credited with saving millions of lives by developing a hybrid of wheat that could be grown in places that previously could not do so. A must-see in Cresco is the Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame. Located in the Cresco Welcome Center, it is the only museum dedicated to Iowa-born natives who have contributed to amateur wrestling. See the likes of Dan Gable, Gold Medalist of the 1972 Olympics, and many others as you learn about Iowa’s proud sport of wrestling. An added bonus is the new IWHOF 40-foot mural dedicated to wrestling in Cresco and Iowa. This is a mustsee experience! Whether walking, biking, or nature watching, the Prairie Springs Recreation Trail (PSRT) is a 3-mile paved trail accessed from downtown Cresco at Balk Park to Vernon Springs, winding along the Prairie’s Edge Nature Center next to the Turkey River. Along the trail are benches and picnic tables to stop and enjoy your moments outdoors. Breathtaking beauty and glorious displays of nature can be seen the entire length of this trail surprising the delighted recreational enthusiast with prairie grass, flowers, rolling farmland, and shaded woods that brings you back to a less complex world. But the trail doesn’t stop there!

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Connecting to the Prairie Farmer Trail, this paved 22-mile experience traverses through an old railroad bed offering views of rich Iowa farmland along the way. The first fitness trail in the State of Iowa possesses outdoor fitness equipment strategically placed along the recreation trail (PSRT) and offers a work-out for all ages and levels. Enjoy a run/walk and workout all along the trail, because this scenic experience now adds a challenge to all fitness levels! Cresco is home to the first stewardess in the world. Ellen Church made many contributions to aviation and one of them was to devise a pilot program to bring nurses on board the newly proposed “passenger plane” back in the 1930s. Convincing the airlines that nurses on board would instill confidence in their passengers, they allowed Ellen to go forward with her program. It became such a success the first “Air Hostess” was born, which evolved into the “Stewardess,” and today, the “Flight Attendant.” To raise community and visitor awareness to a form of art not often seen outside museums and galleries, Cresco is dotted with over 45 sculptures of children featured outside of historic buildings and landscapes. This is a great walking tour of a picturesque town in northeast Iowa that residents and visitors alike enjoy all year round! Take a walk (and maybe a fishing pole) on Iowa’s first Rock Arch Rapids. This innovative fish ladder replaced a 150-year-old spillwater dam reconnecting hundreds of miles of river habitat. Over 280 feet of pools and rapids showcase this stunning new recreation area and is located at the end of the Prairie Springs Recreational Trail. Find us on the web at www.howard-county.com for more on the rich heritage and history of the Cresco area. See you soon!

COME SEE THE FREEDOM ROCK IN CRESCO! While you're here check out: • Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame • Norman Borlaug Boyhood Farm • Over 45 Unique Bronze Statues • Full Service Campgrounds • Three Challenging Golf Courses • Prairie Springs Recreational Trail, WGWL Trail, & historic Cresco Theatre & Opera House

Cresco, IA I 97

www.visitbluffcountry.com

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A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

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Decorah, IA

et ready to fall in love — just as thousands of others do when they first discover the beauty and magic of Decorah and Winneshiek County in northeast Iowa. Just an hour’s drive from La Crosse, Wis., visitors to the area find incomparable scenic beauty, rolling farm land, towering limestone bluffs, cascading waterfalls, and stunning vistas of the Upper Iowa River. The area is also rich in history, fascinating museums and attractions, architectural beauty, quaint shop and boutiques, award-winning restaurants, recreational opportunities, and fun-filled festivals and events. Nature lovers, canoers, bikers, hikers, anglers and others cherish the area for its recreational offerings. Decorah and Winneshiek County’s extensive and growing trail system is the ideal setting for a romantic evening stroll, power walk, or challenging bluff-side workout. Biking enthusiasts at all levels love the area for its diversity of trails. In fact, mountain biking in the Decorah area was recently named one of the “52 Great American Weekends (under $200) in the United States” by Men’s Journal magazine. The Upper Iowa River offers some of the best canoeing in the tri-state area, but don’t take our word for it. National Geographic Adventure magazine called it “One CONTINUED ON PAGE 99

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Decorah, IA I 99

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 98

HANDCRAFTED IN DECORAH, IOWA

Photo by Erik Dutcher

of the top 100 adventures in the United States.” This is what their editors had to say: “Sections of the Upper Iowa River have deep, narrow valleys heavily wooded with pine and cedar, maple, birch, oak and hickory. Steep limestone bluffs — some are 300 to 400 feet tall — create massive, craggy backdrops to the river’s tight bends. Cliffs have been carved into unusual palisade-like configurations by eons of weather and water. The most outstanding are the tall, slender conical bluffs, called chimney rocks, about four miles upstream from Bluffton. After the days of summer and fall have passed and the midwest winter is in full-force, the Decorah area is a warm, cozy and romantic escape to make you feel like you are a world apart. With plenty of distinctive bed and breakfasts, rustic cabins and lodges, and a number of wellappointed hotels, the area is the perfect spot to unwind or rekindle a romantic spark. Excellent restaurants, bistros and tea rooms also abound, and boutique-style shopping offers something unique for everyone. There is no shortage of enticing events in Winneshiek County. Annual events include Women’s Weekend Out, Laura Ingalls Wilder Days, Nordic Fest, Fort Atkinson’s Rendezvous Days, and the Northeast Iowa Artists’ Studio Tour, to name just a few. Museums like the Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, with its extensive campus of more than 12 historic buildings in downtown Decorah, also host a wide array of celebrations and folk art classes.

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100 I Decorah, IA

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

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Event spaces available for large or small groups contact tbocks.events@gmail.com for details Mike & Dominique Bockman, Owners 563-382-5970 www.tbocks.com 206 W. Water St., Decorah

SuNDAy BRuNcH • 9am-1pm HAppy HouR • Wednesday-Saturday - 5-6pm 117 West Water St., Decorah, IA • 563-382-WINE (9463) www.rubaiyatrestaurant.com • Reservations appreciated email - info@rubaiyatrestaurant.com

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Decorah, IA I 101

www.visitbluffcountry.com

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102 I Decorah, IA

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

k s a u ’s r H Canoe Livery 563-547-4566 Bluffton Campground 563-547-4566 • 2633 W. Ravine RD. • Decorah, IA 52101 - Located in Bluffton -

Electric Hook-up (30 amp/50 amp) • Primitive sites • Access to a shelter Solar showers • Bathroom facilities (Porta Potties)

Campers

30 amp...$20 PER NIGHT • 50 amp...$25 PER NIGHT

Tents

$12...PER NIGHT/PER TENT (4 PERSON MAX) • with electric...$15 PER NIGHT

Canoe • Kayak • Tube

Rental (SHUTTLE INCLUDED) Canoes...$35 PER DAY • Kayaks SOLO...$25/TANDEM...$35 Tubes...$10 PER DAY/PER TUBE • $8 PER DAY (NO SHUTTLE)

Cash & Checks Accepted • No plastic!

Decorah, IA I 103

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum By Courtney Bergey DECORAH - After being force-fed rommegrot at family reunions and growing up in a home where “wow”, “ouch”, and “jeez” are commonly replaced by “uff da”, visiting the Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum in Decorah seemed like a natural choice for a day-cation. Upon arriving after my 30-minute drive, I took time to browse through the four floors of the museum. The museum is described as “Norwegian-American” because it is dedicated to the Norwegian immigrants who settled in the New World. The first room features a life-size log cabin presenting the lifestyle of 19th century rural Norway, where you can walk through and see how the immigrants lived before making the trip across the pond. The next room was equally impressive, housing the “Tradewind”; this boat, which sailed from Norway to Chicago, is the smallest sailboat ever known to have crossed the Atlantic Ocean without assistance. Continuing through the museum, you can find authentic furnishings, traditional bunads (costumes), and many other artifacts. One of my favorite exhibits in the museum displayed a collection of rosemaling, the traditional Norwegian painting technique characterized by swirly lines and ornate flowers. There was also a room solely dedicated to Norwegian silver, where bridal crowns and traditional jewelry are on display. The museum would be an

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312 West Water Street • Decorah, Iowa 52101 563.382.4666 • www.oneotacoop.com M-Sat 8:00-8:30 • Sun 10-7

interesting place to take out-of-town guests who want to understand more about our area’s Scandinavian influence, as well as a helpful resource for students studying the region. Once I was finished looking through all of the NorwegianAmerican artifacts, I met the rest of my group for the outdoor tour. (Make sure to call ahead for tour times because they are only scheduled once a day.) Most of my tour group was about 50 years older than me, so I felt a little bit out of place; however, everyone was very friendly and eager to tell me the story of their Norwegian roots. The tour began with a brief history of the museum, where I learned that vesterheim means “western home” in Norwegian. We toured a series of small buildings, which were either shipped in from Norway or built by Norwegian immigrants. The different structures (including several small houses, a school, a church, and a blacksmith shop) came with several interesting stories about its history. My tour group also took a visit to the restored mill, which houses antique farm equipment and building supplies used by the immigrants to establish their new homes in America. While the outdoor tour might not be too interesting for children, I think they would thoroughly enjoy the museum. There are many interactive exhibits and even places for children to try rosemaling and dress up in traditional Norwegian garb.

COOPErative

no membership required

You don’t have to be Norwegian-American to enjoy all the beauty and wonder Vesterheim has to offer. Look for your own story as you explore ours.

Open all year in scenic Decorah, Iowa! 563-382-9681 • vesterheim.org

104 I Decorah, IA

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

We use mainly locally grown berries & ferment whole fruit for the best tasting â&#x20AC;&#x153;TRUE TO THE FRUITâ&#x20AC;? unfiltered wines! Come and taste the difference!

We make fresh Sangria & run 10 taps of craft beers & hard ciders plus cans of domestic beer.

Saturdays 10-5 & Sundays 1-5 May - October Open Fridays 4-9pm Food Buffet May - October, Friday nights and Saturday noons. Closed January Book your next event in our NEW winery building!

Seating for up to 200 people.

Catering available!

www.emptynestwinery.com

Dave & Pam Kruger 1253 Apple Rd., Waukon, IA (563) 568-2758

Like Us On Facebook

Building made from our 100-year-old family barn.

Decorah, IA I 105

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Blue Heron Knittery, LLC 300 West Water St., Decorah 563-517-1059

• Knitting & Crocheting Supplies • Unique Locally Made Items • Fine Yarns • Select Fair Trade Yarns • Books & Patterns • Spinning & Felting Fiber Hours: Tues, Wed, & Fri 11am-5pm Thurs 11am-8pm ~ Sun 12pm-4pm

Classes offered: Beginning knitting, felting, socks and more...call for details! Visit our Website for Class Information www.blueheronknittery.com

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Shady Rest Guest House 1658 Highway 52, Decorah, Iowa 563-379-4132 shadyrestguesthouse@gmail.com

http://shadyrestguesthouse.wix.com/shadyrest-guesthouse

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Complete the online ballot and you'll be entered into a drawing for one of the grand prizes. Only businesses and organizations represented in this Visit Bluff Country Magazine will be eligible for BEST of the BEST Awards selection.

Premier location and unparalleled amenities. Stately architecture and rich heritage. Locally-sourced cuisine in Restauration restaurant, and handcrafted cocktails in our intimate lounge.

• Elegant Guest Accommodations • The Region's best Wedding and Event Venues • The Historic Opera House with seating for 300+ • Off-site Catering available Book Online or Call now for great getaway rates! • hotelwinn.com • 104 E Water St., Decorah IA • 563.382.4164

106 I Decorah, IA

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

We carry bigFROM & tall through 4Xlt EVERYTHING JEANS TO SUITS! Extended hours! 130 W. Water St. Decorah, Iowa 563.382.5761

M, T, W, F 9-6 Thursday 9-8 Saturday 9-5 Sunday 12-4

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Dyersville, IA I 107

www.visitbluffcountry.com

f you build it, they will come.” Yearly, 80,000 to 100,000 people visit the Field of Dreams movie site. This baseball field carved into a cornfield on an Iowa Century Farm has been attracting people since the movie debuted in 1989. Bring a baseball, bat, and glove to hit a few and run the iconic bases. New: house tours! No longer a private residence, the first floor of the farmhouse has been converted back to look like it did in the movie. Special events include Ghost Player Sundays (starting 4th of July weekend) and the All-Star Team of Dreams event (Sunday of Labor Day weekend). Dyersville is known as the Farm Toy Capital of the World. Home of the historic Ertl Company along with SpecCast, Scale Model Toys, Samuelson Pedal Tractors & Parts, and TOMY

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Only businesses and organizations represented in this Visit Bluff Country Magazine will be eligible for BEST of the BEST Awards selection.

International, naturally we are also home to the National Farm Toy Museum. Special events include the Summer Farm Toy Show (June) and the National Farm Toy Show (first full weekend of November). With twin spires standing 212’ in the heart of downtown, the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier is one of only 82 basilicas in the U.S., one of two in Iowa, and the only one located in a rural community. This amazing example of gothic architecture underwent a $1 million interior refurbishment touching up original paintings, restoring an original border and adding gold leaf trimming throughout, making this already beautiful Catholic church absolutely stunning! The original Victorian house of Judge James A. Dyer, our town’s founder, is the Dyer-Botsford Historical House & Doll Museum with three floors of area history, including a very rare rotating German-feathered Christmas tree and over 2,000 dolls. The two-story, 22,500-square-foot Plaza Antique Mall is home to over 200 dealers offering a wide variety of antiques, collectibles, and farm toys (for purchase). Located four miles north of Dyersville, The Heritage House Museum is a former convent converted into a German Museum. It features 23 rooms of period antiques, artifacts and hand-crafted quilts. These attractions, along with restaurants offering homemade meals, including pie with skyscraper-high meringue and variety of flavors including old fashion sour cream raisin, welcoming hotels and bed and breakfasts, make Dyersville a memorymaking destination. Find more information at dyersville.org.

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28995 Lansing Rd., Dyersville, IA 1-888-875-8404

108 I Elkader, IA

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Kitchen hours

Monday - Thursday: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday - Saturday: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday: Call for hours, 563.245.3663 or email fennellys@alpinecom.net Full MENu All DAy • Full BAr

105 1st Street NW • Elkader, IA • 563-245-FOOD(3663) Follow us on Facebook for specials, and pub updates. facebook.com/fennellysirishpub

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102 S Main St., Elkader, Iowa • 563-245-3995 Hours: 9 am - 5 pm Monday - Saturday • Sunday 12 pm -5pm Closed Easter, Thanksgiving & Christmas Days

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lkader – a charismatic town nestled in Bluff Country. It’s ideal for a relaxing getaway full of FUN, shopping, restaurants, entertainment and lodging!! We were founded in 1846, incorporated 1891 and named after the Algerian leader Abd el Kader. A historic Keystone Bridge crosses our beautiful Turkey River, where fishing and floating awaits you. Kayak in our newly built whitewater feature. The walking trails are peaceful and full of nature’s stunning views all year. Scenery and history converge with the business district, giving you a charming community. Elkader’s downtown is designated a “Cultural & Entertainment District” and is home to many unique businesses. How about our three story antique mall, fantastic bakery, spa/salons, bridal boutique, coffee/tea shop and an unique assortment of specialty shops where you’ll always enjoy finding that just right gift. Let’s not forget the dining we offer; Algerian, Irish, and American cuisine, and yes those yummy hamburgers, gourmet sandwiches, soups and all you can eat buffet. Local wines and beers, and new this year, a brewtopia. Entertainment is plentiful – visit our 1903 Opera House, a 3D theatre updated with recliner seating, to see a favorite movie; two museums, and how about some fun at the new inside archery. Well, let’s just schedule YOU a stay at a B&B or motel in town, or choose one of our two campgrounds. There’s just so much Elkader has to offer! Come visit our award-winning little town that we’re so proud to show off. Most certainly it is the “BEST KEPT SECRET” in Bluff Country! Planning a visit – go to www.elkader-iowa.com.

Churches Politicians Restaurants Campgrounds Grocery Stores Hotels & Motels Assisted Living Centers Live Theatre Productions Indoor & Outdoor Recreation Municipalities

Elkader, IA I 109

www.visitbluffcountry.com

ONE OF IOWA'S BEST KEPT SECRETS

SHOP. DINE. PLAY. STAY

For more info: 563-245-2770 ElkaderLodging.com www.elkader-iowa.com

2019 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

May 11 • Music & Monarchs June 28, July 19 & Aug 16 • Rhythm on the River July 12 • Sidewalk Sales July 25 -28 • Sweet Corn Days

August 17 & 18 • Art in the Park October 10 • Witches Night Out October 12 & 13 • 45th Annual Osborne Heritage Days November 30 • Christmas Open House/5K Turkey Trot

110 I Ft. Atkinson/Froelich, IA

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

FISHING •

Lake! Visit us at

www.winneshiekwild.com

FISHING

2546 Lake Meyer Road, Fort Atkinson, Iowa 52144 (563) 534-7145 conservation@winneshiekwild.com

•

CANOEING • CAMPING

Lake Meyer Park & Campground

CANOEING

he Froelich 1890s Village Museum is home to John Froelich’s 1892 invention of the first gasoline powered tractor able to propel itself forward and backward. The Waterloo Gasoline Traction Engine Company was started by John Froelich in 1893 and later purchased by the John Deere Tractor Company in 1918. Guided tours of the museum include the Iron Clad Store, Warehouse, Train Depot, Blacksmith Shop, 1866 One Room School, Vintage Barn, Semi Building and the Froelich Tractor replicas. The museum is open Thursdays through Mondays from the second weekend in May through the last weekend in September, continuing through the first two weekends in October. Come join our village for the annual “Fall-Der-All” celebration the last full weekend in September. This is a family fun weekend including tours, kids pedal pull, line-up of old tractors and single cylinder engines, and many old-time demonstrations that will take you back to the past “Good Old Days.” Great food and fun for everyone! The Froelich Foundation focuses on the preservation of farm tractor history. They also take great pride sharing this rich historical heritage for many generations to come!

Spend Your Summer at the

•

Froelich, IA

RECREATIONAL TRAILS • NATURE PRESERVES

CAMPING

ome to the fort opened by Brigadier General Henry Atkinson, the small town of Fort Atkinson, Iowa welcomes those who wish to enjoy the historic community. Though only a community of roughly 350 people, the attraction sites within town borders are one-of-a-kind, as is the town’s annual Rendezvous Days Festival. While in Fort Atkinson, it’s worth the time to stop by the Fort Atkinson State Preserve, the neutral ground of the Winnebago Indians following their removal from Wisconsin in 1840. The fort provided the Winnebago with protection from other tribes including the Sioux, Sauk, and the Fox as well as white intruders who would trespass on Indian lands. A self-guided walking tour of the fort will give visitors a view of what life was like in the 1840s as they observe the stockade and main gate, the barracks, a guard house, a quarry, officers’ quarters, a powder magazine, as well as a root house, an ice house, and laundress house. Also included are a carpenter shop, bake house, blacksmith shop, quartermaster’s office, granary, and stables. Lake Meyer is also an important feature of Fort Atkinson’s geography. The 156-acre park houses the County Conservation Board’s headquarters. Lake Meyer offers a great spot for camping, whether tent or trailer, and offers amenities including drinking water, showers, and restrooms. And don’t forget the outdoor recreation of skiing, hiking trails, picnicking areas, or taking advantage of the 38-acre lake!

for more information on Winneshiek County campgrounds, parks, trails and other recreation opportunities

RECREATIONAL TRAILS • NATURE PRESERVES

ore l p x E

, BluffHistoric Country visitbluffcountry.com

Froelich/Guttenberg, IA I 111

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Froelich 1890s Village Museum 24397 Froelich Rd, Froelich, IA

Home to John Froelich’s 1892 1892 invention of the first successful Home to John Froelich's invention of the first gasoline propelled We can entertain from successful gasolineTractor. propelled tractor that families became the John Deere tractors. 2 yrs on &forerunner keep them to interested w/hands on Tours for all!

Guided Tours include the 1891 General Store & Post Office, 1866 One Room School, Blacksmith Shop, Railroad Depot, Vintage Barn, Warehouse, Froelich Tractor Replicas and Semi Building. OpenMon., daily Thurs., (exceptFri., for Sat. Wednesdays) Open: 10am-5pm Through Sept 24, 2017 Sun., 11am-5pm Large ahead. Largegroups Groupsplease call tocall schedule 563-536-2841 563-536-2841

“Fall-Der-All Celebration” September 2824, & 2017 29, 2019 Sept 23 &

Bring enjoyold-time old-time Bringyour your family family to to enjoy demonstrations, & tractors hit’n miss demonstrations,steam antique engines, antique tractors, threshing, & equipment. Sat: Tractor Ride, Museum tours, Sat: Tractor Ride, Museum&Tours Sat: Pork loin sandwich pie and great in food! Sun: Breakfast the Barn Sun: Breakfast the Barn, Sun:inKids PedalKids Pull Pedal Pull, and BIGActivities RAFFLEBoth DRAWING! KidstheFun Days! Kids days! Sun: fun BIGactivities RAFFLEboth Drawing! www.froelichtractor.com 4 miles east of Monona on Hwy 18

s the largest city in Clayton County, Guttenberg’s German immigration began in 1845, and by 1850 the town was sizable and nearly all German. The influence of the German population was best indicated by the construction during the period between 1845 and 1865 of over one hundred stone buildings. The bluff limestone was easily obtained and good, local clay and lime for construction was available. The city takes its name from Johannes Gutenberg, the inventor of movable type. A replica of a Bible he printed is on display at the public library. Enjoy family boating on the Mississippi River, watching eagles soar in the sunrise, and viewing the sunset on a river beach. Browse unique retail shops, art galleries and antique stores, and enjoy local cuisine at restaurants, cafes, and our winery. Stay in our comfortable inns, motels, bed and baths, and campgrounds. Stroll the two-mile river walk or trails, join our family events in the park, or check out the aquarium, Lock and Dam #10, and the Lockmaster’s House Heritage Museum, the last remaining lockmaster house on the Upper Mississippi. Be sure to visit the nearby local and state parks, and sign up for a fishing or sightseeing river charter. Nestled between limestone bluffs and the Mississippi River valley of Northeast Iowa, Guttenberg is a “Great Place” for families young and old. Vibrant community spirit, extraordinary natural beauty, hardworking reliable workforce, comprehensive health care facilities, excellent schools and year-round recreation make Guttenberg a “Great Place” to do business, live, work and play. Named one of “America’s Prettiest Towns” by Forbes.

Heaven’s Hill & More Visit Deb & Rick this “2018” Season

OPEN fOR 2018 SEASON (MAY-NOV?) Monday-Friday: 11am - 5pm • Saturday & Sunday: 11am-5pm Other times by chance. Phone 563-880-2496 or 563-252-2185 WE PICK ALL YEAR LONG!

A Unique “Little” Gray Barn filled to the Rafters with “Memories”

27793 Highway 52 North, Guttenberg, IA Located 4 mi North on Hwy. 52 from Guttenberg 6 mi South of Garnavillo on Hwy. 52 West side of the highway Rick & Deb Hinzman, Owners www.heavenshill52northguttenberg.com

Live Music in the Park Friday nights during Summer Stars & Stripes Celebration Art by the River Fine Art Festival & Workshop River Park Cruisers Car Show & Cruise GermanFest and more! See our full calendar online!

112 I Guttenberg/Hawkeye, IA

Complimentary wine tastings, Live music every weekend, 6 delightful boutiques inside the winery, Pizza and snacks available.

39053 Great River Rd. Guttenberg, IA 52052 â&#x20AC;˘ 563-252-2665 www.promiselandwinery.com

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

awkeye is a vibrant destination where families and businesses are central to the growth of our community. Hawkeye is just south of State Hwy. 18, and a few miles north of U.S. Hwy. 20 and east of U.S. Hwy. 63. The Mississippi River is 50 miles to the east. Ten miles east is the George L. Scott Municipal Airport, in West Union. Visitors to Hawkeye may notice the natural resource-based economy active within the area. From the large agricultural co-op, to the wind farm, to the popular retail garden nursery, to the growing local food businesses, Hawkeye embraces its natural environment for long term resiliency. Outdoor green space is important to the community. Hauth Park covers over seven acres and includes a walking trail, shelters, tennis courts, and a ball field. In the winter, the tennis courts are transformed into an ice skating rink, complete with a warming house. City Park, on Main Street, includes playground equipment and a gazebo. A few miles north, the 64-acre Gouldsburg Park is where the Little Turkey River and Crane Creek meet, offering opportunities for fishing, tubing and canoeing. This parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s campground is complete with a dump station, showers, flush toilets and 26 electrical hook-up sites. Also nearby is the Thelman Wildlife Area, a 300-acre public hunting area featuring native grass plantings, a wetland, timber and crop ground for wildlife to prosper. Many visitors to Gouldsburg and Thelman find Hawkeye a convenient place for shopping, dining and fuel. Hawkeye Fun Days in June draws hundreds of visitors to Hawkeye for a weekend of organized activities. The Hurd Museum is located in Hawkeye and houses a large collection of Hawkeye and farming memorabilia.

Kendallville/Lansing, IA I 113

www.visitbluffcountry.com

endallville is a best-kept secret to be explored. The town, located between Cresco, Iowa, and Harmony, Minn., is host to a peaceful 12-acre campground that offers electric and primitive camping with facilities. Canoe, kayak, and tube rental is conveniently found right in town, as is a restaurant and bar that will satisfy your appetite with its delicious food, friendly service, and casual atmosphere! Snowmobilers can take advantage of the area trails and stop in for a bite to eat and a warmup. In warmer weather, spend time fishing and canoeing. The Upper Iowa River can be canoed for about 110 miles, with natural segments based on campgrounds and scenery. One can take day trips on the Upper Iowa from Lime Springs to Kendallville (about 22 miles) or Kendallville to Bluffton (about 15 miles) while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Al & Debbie Reicks Owners

563-547-3256 3230 347th Street • Cresco, IA 52136

CamP sCeniC

along the

Upper Iowa rIver

Kendallville Campground 3501 K Park Road, Kendallville, IA (563) 547-2897 conservation@winneshiekwild.com

On Highway 139 in Kendallville • Casual dining in the Valley

1st Saturday of every month: Prime Rib NIgHtly: Wednesday: Wings • thursday: Tacos Friday: Fish • Saturday: Steaks

www.winneshiekwild.com CampIng • CanoeIng • FIshIng Lansing, IA

ain Street, Lansing, Iowa, is lined with authentic buildings from its rich mercantile past and ends at the Mississippi, where steamboats docked in yesteryear. Here, bald eagles soar year round, the Mississippi Flyway is used by 80% of migratory birds in the U.S., and spring and autumn bring 20,000+ elegant tundra swans and American white pelicans. Lansing and the surrounding area are the ideal setting for camping, hiking, biking, snowmobiling, skiing and snowshoeing, as well as fishing, hunting, boating, and tubing on the mighty river. There are plenty of art experiences, and shopping, dining and lodging opportunities in Lansing, so come for a long and relaxing stay!

River View INN

60 South Front Street • Lansing, 60 IA South Front Street 563-537-0072 • 563-419-4403

River View Inn

Lansing, IA 563-419-4403 563-538-4231 Affordable, spacious rooms located on the Affordable, spacious rooms located on the banks banks of the Mississippi River in Lansing, Iowa of the Mississippi River in Lansing, Iowa Penthouse, Sleeps 6 • Eagles Nest, sleeps 2 Sleeps 6 Hunters Eagles Nest, sleeps 2 4 DockPenthouse, Suite, Sleeps 4• Lodge, sleeps Dock Suite, Sleeps 4 Hunters Lodge, sleeps 4

www.riverviewinnlansingiowa.com www.riverviewinnlansingiowa.com

114 I Lansing/Lime Springs, IA

Driftless AreA inn AnD event Center 1910 Columbus Rd • Lansing, IA• 563-537-0072• 563-419-4403

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

1910LColumbus Rd Hardware & Service A N S I N G Lansing, IA• 238 MAIN ST LANSING IA 563-538-4431 WWW.LANSINGHARDWARE.COM 563-537-0072 “Where 19th century charm meets 21st century needs” 563-419-4403

Unit 1, Sleeps 4-6 • Unit 2, Sleeps 2 • Unit 3, Sleeps 4 Unit 4, Sleeps 6-7 • Unit 5, Sleeps 4

Driftless Area Inn and Event Center

www.DriftlessAreAinn.Com

Unit#1 sleeps 4-6 Unit #2 sleeps 2 Unit #3 sleeps 4 Unit #4 Enjoy sleeps 6-7 Unit #5 sleeps 4 & Garden • Housewares Lawn Antiques • Paint • Plumbing • RV Supplies www.driftlessareainn.com Tools • Electrical • Appliances Historic Bluff Country

ore Historic l p x E Bluff Country

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HOURS: M-F 8-5, SATURDAY 8-4

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Lime Springs, IA

ocated along Hwy. 63, just five miles south of the Minnesota border, Lime Springs is the Best Town by a Dam Site! If you’ve never been to Lime Springs or if you are an old friend, plan to visit during Sweet Corn Days, the second full weekend in August. A fantastic parade, music, plus special treats of FREE sweet corn and watermelon on Sunday will delight! If you can’t make if for the big celebration, there is still plenty to enjoy on any given Sunday, or Saturday or weekday! During the summer, the municipal pool is open seven days a week, with the ball park, volleyball park and playground adjacent. One mile north is an outdoor dream, with the updated Lidtke Park and all its amenities, the Upper Iowa River for fishing and other water fun, and on weekends a person can tour Lidtke Mill, the most authentic old-time mill around. Come for a day, or stay for a lifetime in Lime Springs.

For all your healthcare needs,

call the Lime Springs Medical Clinic

Staci Vrzak, ARNP

Tracey Schlangen, ARNP

563-566-2243

or toll free: 800-593-5463 Monday 7am-3pm | Wednesday 9am-4pm | Friday 7am-12pm

101 West Main St • Lime Springs, IA • www.rhshc.com

Lime Springs, IA I 115

www.visitbluffcountry.com

8-11, 2019

May 11: Mother’s Day Luncheon June 1: Buckwheat Pancakes & Garage Sale Day June 16: Father’s Day Ecumenical Church Service at Lidtke Mill & Father’s Day Omelet Breakfast December 1: Christmas in Lime Springs

AUGUST

Come see what Lime Springs has to offer! UPCOMING EVENTS SWEET CORN DAYS FREE Street Dance -

Thursday, Friday & Saturday

FREE Sweet Corn - Sunday FREE Watermelon - Sunday Parade - 1pm Sunday FREE Fun All Weekend!

’

KCD s CUSB Bank 132 West Main Street Lime Springs, IA 52155 563-566-2215 1-800-568-4191 www.cusb.com www.facebook.com/cusbank www.twitter.com/cusbank

Johnson Comfort Systems, Inc. “The Geothermal Experts”

Serving Breakfast 7 Days A Week at 6 AM Noon Lunch Specials Monday-Friday Short Order Grill Variety of Sandwiches & Appetizers BIG SCREEN TV Mon-Fri HAPPY HOUR HOURS: Mon-Fri 6am-Close Sun 7am-Close Downtown Lime Springs, IA 115 West Main 563-566-2366 FULLY INSURED

Lime Springs Swimming Pool 563-566-2606

• Open Every Day (Weather permitting) Call for hours • Open June-August Outdoor Pool (Next to Ballpark)

Mosie Hershberger

Cell 507-259-1568

FREE ESTIMATES

Home 563-566-2332

HERSHBERGER’S CONSTRUCTION L.L.C. More than 1,225 successful installations! Geothermal heating & cooling Uponor Radiant Floor Heat

107 Center Street Lime Springs, IA 52155 563-566-2346 www.johnsongeothermal.com

17701 45th St. • Lime Springs, IA email: hmosie@yahoo.com 2nd Generation Local Business • 24+ Years Experience Specializing in Steel & Shingle Roofing, Pole Sheds, Concrete Floors, Grain Bins, Residential New Construction and Remodeling

116 I McGregor/Marquette, IA

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2019 May 25-27 May 25-27 June 22 June 29 July 6 July 4,5,6,7 July 6 July 20 July 27 August 31 August 31 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 & 6 Oct. 12-13 October 5 October 26 Nov. 30

39th Annual Spring Arts & Crafts Festival Triangle Park – McGregor Flea Market Under the Bridge Marquette Lazy River Beer & Wine Festival Marquette 12pm-4pm Hole in the Sock Gang Triangle Park, McGregor Parade, Live Music, Fireworks Marquette Flea Market Under the Bridge Marquette Emma Big Bear Day/Basket Exhibit Marquette Great River Car Show & Cruise McGregor Hole in the Sock Gang Triangle Park, McGregor Hole in the Sock Gang Triangle Park, McGregor Labor Day Parade and Festivities McGregor Railroad Days Marquette Hole in the Sock Gang Triangle Park, McGregor 43nd Annual Fall Arts & Crafts Festival McGregor 27th Annual Leaf Arts & Crafts Festival McGregor Marquette Flea Market Under the Bridge GRRRR (Great River Road Race) Pikes Peak Hole in the Sock Gang Triangle Park, McGregor Small Business Saturday

• Friday & Saturday night specials! • Weekday favorites! • Dine in or carry out! • Event room for family gatherings or work meetings! • We also have five bed and baths upstairs!

Backwoods Bar and Grill offers many exciting options to the McGregor area.

10% OFF

room stocked with 1980s broke, don’t x it.

Boat tours through the pr to October, 9 a.m. to 5:30 20 minutes, but you may can pass the time at the w

Farmhouse Style Furniture Unique gifts • Home Decor The cave, estimated at 75 formations, including stal Chainsaw carvings soaring from one of the la share lore about Handmade right in our store! features, increase the spookiness o

The tour costs $12 for adu kids 3 and under.

range in price 258 Main St. McGregor, IA Campsites The campground also has

Claire Miner (left) and Franny Jordan walk the balance beam log in the 563-873-2006 playground at Spook Cave & Campground near McGregor.

mcgregormercantile.com

and ice can be purchased vehicle will deliver it to yo The campground has Wi-

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Marquette, Iowa

Open 11 a.m. Monday – Saturday Riverside, IA

A Nonprofit Community

1400 West Main, McGregor

Less than 15 min from Crossing River Hospital

563.873.3497

www.GreatRiverCare.com

319-648-2888

uLTIMATE IN THERAPY sHOPPING!

Live Music in the Wine Garden June - October

a 4-night stay when you mention “BLUFF” at booking

PAPER MOON

206 A Street McGregor, IA 52517

the largest retail store in McGregor, IA

563.873.1905

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Much of the joy of the Spo that it seems little has cha opened on Labor Day 195

563-873-3150 •111 First St, McGregor, Iowa From the cave tour on on

Document: CR-0000104050-01.PDF;Page: 1;Date: 06.Mar 2018 12:09:43

Open Daily 10am - 5pm Free Wine Tasting Daily

Plan your

563-873-3767

127 North St, Marquette, IA 52158 www.eagleslandingwinery.com

info@papermoonbooks.com 563.873.3357 www.papermoonbooks.com 40

The Gazette, EXPLORE, Spring/Sumer 2018

Awa h

126 Ma

Hours: 12:30-5:30

McGregor/Marquette/Manchester, IA I 117

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Open Daily 10am-5pm Free Wine Tasting Daily Live Music in the Wine Garden June-October

Welcome!

563.873.1905 127 North St Marquette, IA 52158 www.eagleslandingwinery.com

he towns of Marquette and McGregor are nestled between the steep river bluffs and the Mighty Mississippi River, on the Great River Road. Whether it be hiking and camping, relaxing on the Mississippi, grabbing a bite to eat with a great view, or shopping our unique shops, we have endless possibilities! Spending time on the Iowa Wine Trail? Stop in at the winery in Marquette and enjoy free samples of their award winning wine and relax in their wine garden. Perhaps you brought the boat with you. Dock at the city boat ramp and cruise the Mississippi, soaking up the scenic river bluffs. Is hiking more your liking? Effigy Mounds National Monument has miles of trails that meander past Indian burial mounds, culminating at Hanging Rock overlooking the Mississippi River. Feeling lucky? Drop in at the casino and try your hand one of the tables while aboard a river boat. Driving south to McGregor you will pass a marina, where houseboat and pontoon rentals let you enjoy the “Mighty ‘Sip” at your leisure. How about a guided river tour for the afternoon? Once in McGregor you’ll find shops lining Main Street and buildings that date back to 1800s still standing, inviting you in with their charm. Take the drive to one of the most beautiful spots in the state of Iowa, Pikes Peak State Park. After a fun-filled day, the bed and breakfasts or our local motels welcome you home, where you can relax and unwind in our quaint little river towns. We have many restaurants in both towns that serve up mouth-watering home cooked dishes guaranteed to satisfy your appetite. For more information check us out on Facebook - McGregorMarquette, Iowa, or find us on the web at www.mcgreg-marq.org or contact the chamber office at (800) 896-0910. Manchester, IA

he sounds of water splashing on rocks, children’s laughter and fishermen’s chatter. The smell of a crisp summer day and sunscreen complimented by the view of families making memories. This can be found at the Midwest’s longest Whitewater Park in Manchester, Iowa. The Maquoketa River running from the beautiful Backbone State Park to the legendary Lake Delhi sits as the home of the Whitewater Park. Adjacent to the popular park is Manchester’s historic downtown shopping district, where you’ll find everything from shoes, clothing and consignment, to crafts, hardware and gifts. The fun doesn’t stop downtown, though. Take a drive around the attractive outskirts of town to find treasures at every corner. Treat yourself to breakfast, lunch or dinner at one of Manchester’s unique restaurants offering a full plate for every craving - Mexican, Tea Room, American, coffee shop, Chinese, sports bar, barbecue, bakery, deli and more. Famous for signature events like Rhubarb on the River (June), Bacon N Hops Festival & Motorcycle Trials (August), River Runner Regatta & Cardboard Boat Race (August), and Holiday Window Walk (December), you’ll crave a trip to Manchester yearround. Take a tour of the award-winning Franklin Street Brewing Company, the Manchester Trout Hatchery, the Delaware County Historical Museum just 25 miles south, or the largest sawmill in Iowa - Kendrick Forest Products, 20 miles north in Edgewood. Located on Highway 20 between Waterloo and Dubuque, Manchester’s shopping, recreation, food, tours and events make for a recipe of excitement and adventure. Find out more at delawarecountyiowatourism.com or Facebook - Delaware County, Iowa Tourism.

118 I New Hampton/Protivin, IA

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

ew Hampton, at the junction of U.S. Highways 63 and 18, is a wonderful town that is rich in community. New Hampton is blessed with several businesses, restaurants, hotels, recreational activities, and is host to several special events each year. They also have beautiful parks and a large swimming pool, with a campground adjacent to the park and pool. There is so much to do and to see in the New Hampton community. The widely-used Mikkelson Park has multiple playgrounds, baseball fields, a swimming pool with a state-ofthe-art water slide, two tennis courts, a volleyball area, a disc golf course, horseshoes and more. Other park facilities include a nature trail, pond with fishing piers, native grass and wildflower area, winter ice rink, basketball courts, softball fields, sand volleyball courts and open play spaces. There are many golf courses within minutes of New Hampton. Bikers will enjoy miles of bike trails; and hunters will feast in the deer and pheasant hunting. Another excellent recreational opportunity is the Chickasaw Wellness Center. Features include basketball and volleyball courts, a racquetball court, a running or walking track, training and exercise equipment, strength training area, batting and golf cages and steam rooms, and a supervised childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s area for those too young to participate.

rotivin was founded by Czech settlers in mid 19th century, and named after the Bohemian town because the landscape reminded them of their home region. The town celebrates their Czech heritage during Czech Days festival each August. These days are full of events - food and beer tents, music, polka Mass, crafts, softball, basketball, volleyball, dances, and serves about 1,300 dozen kolaches and 800 dozen rohliky! Each winter they also celebrate Masopust, a traditional Czech carnival (Mardi Gras style) before Lent. Protivin also boasts a fine softball park, a city park, a veterans memorial, a large community center, Catholic church and school, and a short distance east of Protivin is the Bohemian National Cemetery. Businesses are aplenty with restaurants and bars, a guest house, meat locker, a bank, post office, lumber yard, mini-mart, farm businesses, and more.

Open 7 Days a Week

Full menu with entrees served after 5 PM â&#x20AC;˘ Sunday - Pizzas & Wings Only

Watch your favorite sports team on our big screen TVs!

www.visitbluffcountry.com

116 S. Main, Protivin, IA â&#x20AC;˘ 563-569-8395 Like us on Facebook!

Open daily frOm may 25th to august 17th

(splash pad is open through labor day)

new Hampton pool is located in mikkelson park, which has 3 different playgrounds, softball and baseball fields, a skate park, sand volleyball courts, frisbee golf, and 7 shelters that can be reserved for family gatherings.

www.newhamptonia.com/pool.html | 641-394-5464 | tara.nhpark@gmail.com

Make Make your way to Mitchell County today! www.visitbluffcountry.com your way to Mitchell County today!

Osage, IA I 119

NoveMber 18th

public prograM “Nature oN the Move” NoveMber 18th

Fall bird migration and how plants prograM “move” around public “Nature oN the Move” the landscape 9-11 AM @ Wildlifeand Areahow plants “move” around FallBrownville bird migration

the landscape 9-11 AM @ Brownville Wildlife Area f you’re

longing for a country get-away, peppered with a dash of amenities that you’d find in a big city, that’s exactly what you’ll find in Osage, a community located opeN xc Ski @ Nature Center Saturday & Sundays DeceMber - March on the very west edge of bluff country in Mitchell County, (weather pending, checkJANUARY Mitchell County Mitchell County - APRIL Conservation Board for updates) opeNFacebook xc Skpage i @ Nature Center Saturday & Sundays Conservation Board Iowa, where industry and recreation coincide at the perfect Sweetheart Deer & Turkey Expo, (weatherSki, pending, check Mitchell County Headquarters Mitchell County balance. Board Facebook for updates) Conservation Board OpenConservation Cross-country ski17th andpage sledding hillSki February - Sweetheart 18793 Highway 9 Traveling west on Highway 9 in Mitchell County, you’ll 5-8 PM @ Wapsi Great Western Line Trail, Riceville Osage, Iowa 50461Headquarters come across Osage, where Highway 9 and Highway 218 February 17th Sweetheart Ski Highway 9 Contact Chelsea18793 at intersect. 5-8 PM @ Wapsi Great Western Line Trail, RicevilleOsage, known as the City of Maples, holds its title (641) 732-5204 Osage, Iowa 50461 because of Doctor S.B. Chase who helped line the streets Contact Chelsea at “Mitchell County March 10th Conservation Board” with maple trees like in his hometown of Portland, Maine. (641) 732-5204 Mitchell CountyDeer & turkey expo Chase would even help those who could not buy trees by giv“Mitchell Board County 9-3 PM @ Milton R. Owen Nature Center Conservation ing them trees and helping them with the planting process. Conservation Board” MAY - AUGUST March 10th The glorious autumn colors of the maples today are annual & turkey expo visitHeadquarters us online at www.mitchellcountyconservation.com Camping atDeer six campgrounds, Youth Summer 9-3 PM @ Milton R. Owenkayak Natureprograms, Center tribute to this pioneer, his hard work, and his generosity. Camps, public nature programs, What makes Osage unique is that it within the city resides fishing events, and much more 18793 Highway visit us9 online at www.mitchellcountyconservation.com the Sock Monkey sock, manufactured by Fox River Mills, Osage, Iowa 50461 SEPTEMBER and Watts Theatre, which was listed as one of the top 10 Cedar River Rendezvous cinemas in USA Today in 2006. Osage is home to the Cedar & Outdoor Days Contact Chelsea at River Complex (CRC), which includes a wellness center, (641) 732-5204 indoor aquatic center, the Mitchell County Historical Museum, and a 600-seat auditorium. Visitors from great distances are brought to North Iowa to take advantage of what Osage “Mitchell County and other surrounding communities have to offer. Conservation Board”

Make your way toDeceMber Mitchell County today! - March

OCTOBER - DECEMBER

Over 35 public hunting areas, two cabins available year round for rental, Nighttime Nature Hikes

Do you want to advertise in this publication?

VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.MITCHELLCOUNTYCONSERVATION.COM Cedar River Complex

Osage, Iowa Osage, Iowa Cedar River Complex

Contact the office at 800-599-0481 with any questions!

SAVE THESUMMER DATE FOR THESESHOWS SUMMER SHOWS SAVE THE DATE FOR THESE Cedar Summerstock Theater’s mission isJune to 21-July bring 1 This Iowa premiere is based on the 21-July together talentedJune college students1 from tales across of localthe author Hamlin Garland.

This Iowa premiere is based ononthe of love the prairie. country to work within a rural community Atomusical build their tales of local author Hamlin Garland. July 5-15 own musical theater skills while also learning how to Cedar River Complex Osage, Iowa A musical of love on The theswashbuckling prairie. musical comedy engage the community with the performing arts. of mistaken identities, young love, a SAVE THE DATE FOR THESE SUMMER SHOWS

Cedar SummerStock is proud to be building a tradition of bringing accomplished college performers, Pirate King, and very modernfrom Major Cedar RiverTheater Complex Osage, Iowa Cedartop River Complex Osage, Iowa July 5-15 theater programs across the country, to north central Iowa for summers of amazing musical theater experiences! Cedar River Complex Osage, Iowa General. Cedar SAVE River Osage, Iowa Roads • June 21-July1 comedy THE Complex DATE FORMain-Travelled THESE SUMMER SHOWS The swashbuckling SAVE THE DATE FORPLEASED THESE SUMMER E THE DATE FOR THESE SUMMER SHOWS OURmusical WE ARE TO SHOWS ANNOUNCE 2019 SEASON! June 21-July 11 of of The Pirates Penzance • July 5-15 19-29 21-July July 19-29 love, mistaken identities, young a2019 July 15-28, 2019 1-11, June 20-30, THESE 2019 July 5-14, 2019 THE DATE FOR SHOWS June 21-July 1SUMMER This Iowa Iowa premiere based on the The Sci-fi Sci-fiAugust musicalcomedy comedy where This premiere is is based on the The musical where a a Main-Travelled Roads •Little June 21-July1 Pirate King, and very modern Major This Iowa premiere isHamlin based on the Shop of Horrors • July 19-29 talesof oflocal local author Garland. nerdy forestfinds finds fame romance tales author Hamlin Garland. nerdy florist fame andand romance tales of local Hamlin Garland. A musical musical the prairie. with the thehelp helpofofa ahuman-eating human-eating plant A ofoflove onon the prairie. General. The Pirates of Penzance •author July • August 2-12 with Main-Travelled Roads • love June 21-July1 A musical of love onAnnie the5-15 prairie.

that demands to be plant that demands to fed. be fed.

July 5-15 Little Shop of Horrors • Julymusical 19-29 July 5-15 The comedy Julyswashbuckling 5-15 763-312-8319 • cedarsummerstock.org The swashbuckling musical comedy of mistaken identities, young love,19-29 a The swashbuckling musical comedy August 2-12 2-12 July Annie • August 2-12

The Pirates of Penzance • July 5-15 of identities, young love, of mistaken mistaken love, a a Pirate King,identities, and veryyoung modern Major The little The classic classicmusical musicalofofthe theplucky plucky little The Sci-fi musical comedy where a Little Shop of Horrors • July 19-29 Pirate King,and andvery very modern Major Pirate King, modern Major General. orphan Annie features the songs orphan Annie features the songs General. General. “Tomorrow” “It’s Life”. “Tomorrow” and “It’sa aHard-Knock Hard-Knock Life” 763-312-8319 • cedarsummerstock.org nerdy forest finds fame andand romance Annie • August 2-12 July 19-29 with the help of a human-eating plant July 19-29

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nerdy forest fame and romance 763-312-8319 • cedarsummerstock.org with the helpfinds of a human-eating plant with the help oftoabe human-eating plant that demands fed. that demands to be fed.

August 2-12

120 I Riceville/Spillville, IA

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

iceville, Iowa, is a community of roughly 900 and a dual county town, partly located in Mitchell County and partly in Howard County. The town’s northeast Iowa location is strongly centered around the area’s rural economy. The many Amish and Mennonite families that reside in the area add to the area’s rural charm. Riceville offers a lot for people to see and do. Riceville’s public library is home to five of the Brown Opera House stage curtains, which are full size vaudeville curtains painted as scenery and as advertisements. Several thousand dollars were put to use to restore the curtains in 1980 after their use in the early 1900s. Now they are a very popular area attraction. More fun is waiting at nearby Lake Hendricks, an ideal place for many activities such as camping, swimming, fishing, and even just relaxing in the great outdoors. In close proximity are recreational trails, an added feature of the area. Visitors have access to one of the more than 200 campsites, playground equipment and picnic shelters that are all overseen by a full-time park attendant. The 18-mile Wapsi-Great Western Line Trail connects Iowa and Minnesota and also runs through Riceville, winding through the Lake Hendricks Park. Anyone traveling the trail will find the beauty of wildflowers, prairie grasses and a butterfly garden. Riceville is also a well-established community for its residents. The K-12 school system, businesses in a variety of different industries, recreational opportunities, and health care services all help make Riceville a great town in which to live. Riceville’s 9-hole course has been around for more than 40 years and is taken advantage of by many. Each year the Wapsi Day Festival is packed with entertaining activities and performances.

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Gansen auto & RV sales, Inc. www.gaarv.us • 641-985-2034 Mon-Fri 8am-6pm • Sat 9am-1pm

The Bily Clocks Museum & Antonin Dvorak Exhibit

Spillville, IA

pillville was largely settled by Bohemian, German and Swiss immigrants and boasts a strong cultural and musical history. Still today, the dedicated community of families strive to preserve the rich history, heritage and Czech culture. Czech composer Antonín Dvorák spent the summer of 1893 in Spillville, where he had Dvorák relatives. There he composed two of his most famous chamber works, including the String Quartet in F (“The American”). Spillville is also the site of the Inwood Ballroom, established in 1920 and the destination of several popular musicians such as Louis Armstrong, Glenn Miller, Guy Lombardo, and The Byrds. Many tourists to Spillville have also visited the Bily Clocks Museum, a collection of intricately designed clocks created by two brothers in Spillville. St. Wenceslaus Church in Spillville was built in 1860 and is the oldest Czech Catholic church in the U.S.

Do you want to advertise in this publication?

Contact the office at 800-599-0481 with any questions!

P.O. Box 258 • 323 S. Main St.

Spillville, Iowa 52168 563-562-3569

Open to Visitors - ADMISSION CHARGED May - October: Daily, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sundays 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. November – April open by appointment Phone or email bilyclocks@mchsi.com. website: www.bilyclocks.org Hours subject to change at anytime. Photographs are not allowed in the Museum

Raptor Ou

Waukon, IA I 121

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Cheese curd capital of Iowa! Guided Creamery & Farm Tours available; call or email for details.

563.568.4950

850 Rossville Rd., Waukon, IA www.wwhomesteaddairy.com homesteaddairy@gmail.com

Non-Homogenized Cream Line Milk Fully Pasteurized Locally Produced and Processed

Check out our cow mural on the side of our building!

Summer Hours Mon-Fri 8am-9pm Sat 9am-9pm Sun Noon-9pm

40+ Ice Cream Flavors!

Featuring our very own premium homemade ice cream!

Creamery, Ice Cream Parlor & Retail Store Malts - Shakes - Sundaes - Floats - Ice Cream Cones and More.

Our Products Milk - Whole, 1%, Skim

(White or Chocolate) Premium Ice Cream Fresh Cheese Curds & Butter Block Cheddar Cheese

You’ll love our squeaky fresh cheese curds!

Made fresh Tuesdays & Fridays!

Allamakee County Historical Society Museum & Genealogy Research

Museum Log Cabin Red Schoolhouse Museum Store

Facebook 121 Allamakee Street, PO Box 95 Waukon, Iowa 52172 563.568.2954 Email: info@allamakeehistory.org

We would like to thank everyone for their photo submissions! These photographers were featured throughout the 2019-2020 Visit Bluff Country Magazine! Rick Aske • Madelyn Bergey • Jana Boyum Tina Burmeister • Taylor Bushman • KJ Corson Rylie Gatzke • Gary Gibson • Menno Hershberger Jim Hoffman • Darla Kelchen • Mia Kelzer Jennifer Lancaster • Felicity Lewandowski Joni Mehus • Melissa Meyer • Adrianna Meiergerd Addie Peters • Taryn Raaen

MUSEUM The Museum is housed in the original Allamakee Courthouse built in 1861. The exterior of the Museum is built of native limestone and brick. The interior of this two-story building is built of white pine. Within the Museum, one will discover rooms furnished to reflect the 19th and early 20th century, displays of farm tools, military items, medical room, and the court room - complete with the judge's bench, chair and gavel. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. There is a $2.00 charge which is admission to both the Museum and Genealogy Center. The Society maintains two other historical buildings.

The "Gjefle" Log Cabin

The Red Schoolhouse

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ocated just 17 miles from the Wisconsin border, 18 miles from the Minnesota border and only 15 miles from the great Mississippi River, Waukon is surrounded by the natural beauty of a remarkable landscape. A 64-acre park is located in Waukon, complete with electric/ water supplied picnic shelters, walking trails, and camping facilities. Also within the park are the Indian Springs Pond, volleyball courts and a horseshoe pit, as well as a softball field and ice rink. A visit to the city’s aquatic center, open Memorial Day through the last full weekend in August, can also make for a fun afternoon of swimming. Waukon caters to the interests of its visitors by providing various entertainment. From bowling and golf to wine tasting and even visits to the Old Courthouse Museum, Waukon does its duty to make its visitors feel welcome.

Send your photos to info@visitbluffcountry.com for an opportunity to appear in next year’s magazine.

122 I Iowa Area Maps

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

218

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r 18

Charles City

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Allamakee Buchanan Chickasaw Clayton Fayette Floyd Howard Mitchell Winneshiek

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Iowa Area, IA I 123

124 I Iowa Trout Map, IA

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Welcome to Iowa Trout Country Iowaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trout program consists of 48 catchable rainbow, brown and brook trout fisheries, seven special trout fisheries, three winter trout fisheries, and 28 put-and-grow trout fisheries. Most of these must be maintained by stocking because successful natural reproduction of trout occurs in a few Iowa waters. Six trout fisheries, however, offer excellent angling opportunities for catching wild, naturally-sustaining brown

or brook trout populations. These various types of trout fisheries have been developed to enable the trout angler to select the types of trout fishing preferred. On your next outing in Northeast Iowa, plan to visit one of Iowaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s three trout production facilities- Manchester, Decorah, or Big Springs. The grounds to each facility are CONTINUED ON PAGE 125

www.visitbluffcountry.com

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 124

open to the public year round from sunrise to sunset. Fisheries employees are present during office hours to answer your questions pertaining to all of Iowaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fisheries programs as well as current trout stream conditions. Trout Fishing for Kids A pond at Big Springs Hatchery, near Elkader, has been

Iowa Trout Map, IA I 125

specially designated as a fishing pond for kids ages 12 and under. The pond has easy access and is stocked weekly to provide young anglers with a likely chance of reeling in their first trout. All kids must be accompanied by a properly licensed adult angler. Additional rules are posted at the pond. Source: http://www.iowadnr.gov/fish/fishing/trout/troutstr. html

126 I Iowa Bike Trail Maps, IA Valley Ave.

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Trout Stream

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3rd St.

2nd St.

Seippel

MARJO HILLS

5th St. PL

Elmer Ave

Magill St.

Briggs St.

S Johnson St

. St

Julien Dubuque

Seippel

Dubuque Recreational Trail

Main St.

Briggs St.

Magill St.

Elmer Ave

V49 / Reed Ave

Briggs St.

. St

Crane Creek

Elmer Ave

e th

V49 / Reed Ave

St.

dvie

Julien Dubuque

151

5th

15th 10th

MARJO HILLS

Dubuque

Elmer Ave

16th

Recreational Trail Dubuque Recreational Trail

Main St.

Magill St.

Briggs St.

MARJO HILLS

Julien Dubuque

3rd St.

Main St.

. St

velt

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Wolf Ave

as Shir

Gran

ive

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in Ma ut

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r he

3rd St.

4th St.

Main St.

Peru

dvie

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Gran

Cresc ent

as Shir

velt 10th

4th St.

2nd St.

Chamber & Visitors Center 3rd St.

Kalman St.

Roose

16th

5th St. PL

Crane Creek

nd 5th 1

10th

Kalman St.

Artwork

Gran

John F. Kennedy

NW Arterial

Dodge

15th

Water Tower Park

2nd St.

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Ridge St.

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Friendly People Ball Park

5th St. PL

4th St.

Peru nd

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Elmer Ave

Wolf Ave Denver Jefferson City Trail

State Street

Highland Ave

Park View Dr.

State Street

Denver Jefferson City Trail

cti

er art

as Shir evelt Roos

Wolf Ave

Quail Ave

Briggs St.

Denver Jefferson City Trail

Magill St.

Main St.

Kalman St.

2nd St.

Ridge St. Park

Highland AveKalman St.

St.

Oakland Ave

State Street

Navaho AveJefferson City Trail Denver

Midway Ave

3rd St.

Park View Dr.

4th St.

Friendly People Ball Park

Water Clark St.Tower

5th St. PL

5th

Hospital

ria

Highland Ave

rin

5th St. PL

Parking

Fishing

Quail Ave

Oakland Ave

Clark St.

250th St.

C50 / 260th St.

Restrooms

Quail Ave

Oakland Ave

V49 / Reed Ave

Quail Ave

Highland Ave

Wolf Ave

Park View Dr.

Water Tower

4th St.

Crane Creek

Navaho Ave

rs we

2nd St.

Legend

250th St.Ave Forrest

Readlyn

Friendly People Ball Park

Readlyn

C50 / 260th St.

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Food

Readlyn 3

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240th St. Willow Run Golf Course

eria

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2nd St.

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Kalman St.

Crane Creek

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4th St.

Cresc ent

vania Dodge Pennsyl Cre sc Seippel

Briggs St.

Elmer Ave

Park View Magill St. Dr.

Magill St.

Water Tower Park

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Navaho Ave

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9th St. SE

Danbury St

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Midway Ave

rs we

Sie

Hilton Ave

. St

St.

5th Ave Wolf

Main St.

Kalman St.

Highland Ave Main St.

Ridge St.

5th St. PL

Pennsylvania Seippel

4th St.

Friendly People Ball Park

Seippel

5th St. PL

V49 / Reed Ave

Quail Ave

V49 / Reed Ave

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Clark St. Water Tower 5th St. PL Park

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4.5 mi.

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4.0 mi.

m R BWillow Run

Kennedy

V49 / Reed Ave

Quail Ave

Park View Dr.

Ridge St.

Kalman St.

Highland Ave

Wolf Ave

Gresham Rd. W

Forrest Avenue Park n Ru on cti Se er art Qu

Park View Dr.

1st Ave SE

Wolf Ave

Oakland Ave

1st Ave NE

State Street

Marquis Rd. E

Forrest Avenue Park n Ru on Forrest cti Ave Se er art Qu

Denver Jefferson City Trail

Gresham Rd. W

C57 / Cedar-Wapsi Rd. E

Highland Ave

State Street

Denver Jefferson City Trail

Forrest Ave

Forrest Avenue Park n Ru on cti Se er art Qu

Water Tower Park

Legend

Denver

3.5 mi.

240th St.

Artwork 63 Chamber & Visitors Center

Gresham Rd. W

Friendly People Ball Park

Ridge St.

Clark St.

250th St.

State Street

3rd Ave NE

250th St.

Trout Run Park

Readlyn 3.0 mi.

250th St.

G Hotel/Motel Marquis Rd. E R 5.5 mi. Food 63 m Parking BC57 / Cedar-Wapsi Restrooms Rd. E N Rd.Fishing Gresham W Ave W Forrest Hospital

6.0 mi.

1st Ave SE

Readlyn Clark St.

C50 / 260th St.

Gresham Rd. W

Readlyn

250th St.

Denver

3.5 mi.

1st Ave NE

Kennedy

C50 / 260th St.

Siewers Spring State Park

mR B 3

3.5 mi.

240th St. 4.0 mi.

3.0 mi.

Marquis Rd. E

ria

Willow Run Forrest Ave Golf Course

1st Ave SE

o ntg

Ivy Ave

Hilton Ave

Grand

Garden Ave

Siewers Spring State Park

Readlyn Oakland Ave

Denver

Marquis Rd. E

1st Ave NE

4.5 mi.

C57 / Cedar-Wapsi Rd. E

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Ivy Ave

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5.5 mi.

240th St.

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1st Ave SE

Tro

6.5 mi.

1st Ave NE

3.0 mi.

240th St.

To Readlyn 5.5 Miles

Decorah’s Eagle’s Nest

6.0 mi.

C50 / 260th St.

Marquis Rd. E

9th St. SE

C55 / Winslow Rd.

4.5 mi.

5.0 mi.

6.5 mi.

m B

To Readlyn Trout Run 5.5 mMilesPark

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7.0 mi.

Oakland Ave

Willow Run Golf Course

C57 / Cedar-Wapsi Rd. E

1st Ave SW

218

6.0 mi.

7.0 mi. Rd. E Marquis

To Readlyn 5.5 Miles 2.5 mi. erce

5.0 mi.

4.0 mi.

6.5 mi.

2.0 mi.

To Waverly 7 Miles

C57 / Cedar-Wapsi Rd. E

Navaho Ave

Cedar Hill Park

1st Ave SW

218

Brown Lane

Heritage Trail

C50 / 260th St.

1st Ave NE

2nd Ave NW 1st Ave NW

Brown Lane Cedar Hill Park

Brown Lane

3rd Ave NE

Tree Rivers Park

Navaho Ave

r Ri

Ceda

3rd Ave NW

l Trail Map

4th Ave NW

1st Ave SW

Cedar Hill Park

3rd Ave NE

1.5 mi.

mm Co

2.5 mi.

Willow Run Decorah’s Brown Lane Golf Course Eagle’s Nest

Decorah’s 1st Ave NE Eagle’s Nest

Park

63 9

Denver GR erce

Cedar Hill Park

7.0 mi.

Calmar—11 miles to trail head for Prairie Farmer Trail (22 mi.)

Palisades Park

Decorah Fish Hatchery

1st Ave NW Brown Lane 1stCedar Ave SEHill

Calmar—11 miles to trail 1st Ave SW head for 218 Prairie Farmer Trail 3rd Ave NE (22 mi.)

G r

Emery Dr.

Tree Rivers Park

2.5 mi.

To Waverly 7 Miles

218

240th St.

Denver

r r Rive Ceda Emery Dr. Tree Rivers Park

1st Ave NW

5th Ave NW 4th Ave NW

3rd Ave NW

Emery Dr.

2nd Ave NW

6th Ave NW

C55 / Winslow Rd.

Pelikan Park

9th St. SE

218 Ave NW 7th

C55 / Winslow Rd.

5th Ave NW

3rd Ave NW 1st Ave NE 2nd Ave NW

C55 / Winslow Rd.

Navaho Ave

5th Ave NW 4th Ave NW

Janesville

7th Ave NW

1st Ave SW

240th St.

Midway Ave Midway Ave

7th Ave NW

6th Ave NW

Adams Parkway 1st Ave SW

Midway Ave

1st Ave NW

3rd 5thAve AveNE NW

2nd Ave NW

r Rive

Ceda

Tree Rivers Park

Adams Parkway Dr. 4thEmery Ave NW

r 6th Ave NW r Rive Ceda 5th Ave NW Tree Rivers 4th Ave NW Park 218 3rd Ave NW

2.0 mi.

Emery Dr.

r Rive

Ceda

6th Ave NW

1st Ave NW

6th Ave NW

Brown Lane

Pelikan Park

7th Ave NW

Adams Parkway

Calmar—11 miles3rd to trail Ave NW head for Prairie 2nd Ave NW Farmer Trail (22 mi.) 1st Ave NW

5.5 Miles

Willow Run Golf Course

9th St. SE

3rd Ave NW

Brown Lane Cedar Hill Park

Tree Rivers Park

Adams Parkway ver

Pelikan Park

Calmar—11 miles to trail for 1sthead Ave SW Prairie Farmer Trail (22 mi.)

218

C55 / Winslow Rd.

To Readlyn To 5.5 Readlyn Miles

Ivy Ave

4th Ave NW

2nd Ave NW

To Waverly

Emery Dr.

Hilton Ave

5th Ave NW

1st Ave NW

C55 / Winslow Rd.

Denver r

r Rive

Ceda

Pelikan Park

6th Ave NW

Ivy Ave

7th Ave NW

Janesville

Hilton Ave

Janesville

Pelikan Park

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218

Hilton Ave

Centennial Oaks Golf Course

Cedar Hill Park

Tree Rivers Park

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Hilton Ave

r Ri

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Garden Ave

4th St. SW

Waverly

4th St. SW

Waverly

r Rive

Ceda

Hilton Ave

Golf Course

Waverly Municipal Golf Course

3 r Rive

Ceda

2.0 mi.

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Emery Dr.

Adams Parkway

3rd Ave NW

ill

1.5 mi.

63 63 63

63 Grand

12th St. SE

Centennial Oaks Golf Course Waverly Municipal

12th St. SE

4th St. SW

218

r Rive

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ver

Wartburg College

Waverly

To Waverly 7 Miles

Garden Ave

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12th St. SE

V21 /212th St.

a Ri r Iow

V21 /212th St.

To Waverly 7 Miles

Wold Park

Water St Main Business District

Main St

Adams Parkway

4th Ave NW

Broadway

Ivy Ave

11th St

Waverly Municipal Golf Course

Hilton Ave

HOSPITAL

Stony Point Rd

0.0 mi.

7th Ave NW

Stony Point Rd

Pelikan Park

2nd Ave NW

arr

1.0 mi.

The Cut

0.5 mi.

r Centennial Oaks r Rive Course CedaTheGolf Cut

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Ice Cave

Water St Main Business District

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0.5 mi.

r Ri

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Ca mi he Pra Far (22

Palisades Park

Wold Park

Van Peenen

Phelps Park Upper Iowa River

0.5 mi.

Phelps Park

Decorah 0.0 mi.

Dunning’s Spring

Campground

Ceda

Centennial Oaks Golf Course

Janesville

Charles City To Fort Atkinson Charles City Trail Map CHARLES Recreational CITY Recreational TrailJanesville Map HIGH SCHOOL

The Cut

Decorah Community Prairie ver

5th Ave NW

Rolling Prairie Trail

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CHARLES CITY Lake Meyer Park HIGH SCHOOL

gS t

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1.5 mi.

Water St Main Business 1.0District mi.

V2152 /212th St.

Twin Springs Fifth AvePark

Campground

Twin Springs Park

Uppe

Rob Roy Ln

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218

Charles City RollingRecreational Prairie TrailTrail Map

11th St V21 /212th St.

T77 / Casper Ave

Park Lane Dr

Spillville R B

Charles City Trail Map Rolling PrairieRecreational Trail

11th St

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CHARLES CITY R HIGH SCHOOL

Upper Iowa River

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Grand

9th St

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Calmar—11 miles to trail head for Prairie Farmer Trail (22 mi.)

Rolling Prairie Trail R

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0.5 mi. m

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10th St

8th St

lze r

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Ice Cave Wold Park

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0.5 mi.

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Floyd County Friends 3rd St 10th St Museum

6th St

7th Ave

3rd Ave

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2nd St

6th St

5th St

8th St

Floyd County Museum Rive 3rd rsidSt

3rd St

4th St

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10th Ave ll6th y Ave

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Decorah

Dunning’s Spring

0.0 mi.

Grand

3rd St

Friends Garden4th St Trailhead

LIB

6th Ave

5th Ave

Wartburg College

Calmar

s ng

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Lake Meyer Park

1.0 mi.

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Pulpit Rock Rd

12th St. SE

GOLF COURSE

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1.7 mi

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1.2 mi

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440th Street

1.7 mi

1 mi 430th Street

440th Street

1 mi 1.2 mi

1 mi

440th Street

ve hA 5t

440th Street

1.2 mi

Trailhead 1 mi

Cresco

Trailhead 1 mi

#9 y. Hw 2 85 wa th Io

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450th Street

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450th Street

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r Uppe

McIntire

Prairie Farmer Recreational Trail To Kendallville Recreational Trail To Kendallville Prairie Farmer

470th Street

To Decorah

Tro u

470th Street

Lanear Rd

McIntire

Trout Stream

Valley View Dr

WesternLine Trail Line Trail 450th Street

450th Street McIntire

To Kendallville

Prairie Farmer Recreational Trail Prairie Farmer

470th Street

Trout Stream

Valley View Dr

Wapsi Great Western Line Trail

455th Street

Rd . Ma d

1.75 mi

Addison Ave.

Walnut Ave.

Valley Ave.

1.75 mi

Valley Ave.

Trail

Iowa Area Visitor Centers I 127

www.visitbluffcountry.com

ALLAMAKEE COUNTY 101 W. Main St Waukon, IA 52172 563-568-2624 • 800-824-1424 allamakeecounty.com BELLEVUE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 210 N Riverview Dr. Bellevue, IA 52031 563-872-5830 bellevueia.com BURR OAK Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum 3603 236th Ave, Burr Oak, IA 52101 563-735-5916 lauraingallswilder.us CHARLES CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 401 N. Main St. Charles City, IA 50616 641-228-4234 charlescitychamber.com CHICKASAW COUNTY TOURISM Nashua, IA 50658 641-435-4187 chickasawtrails.com CITY OF CLERMONT 505 Larabee St. Clermont, IA 52135 563-423-7295 clermontia.org

CLAYTON COUNTY DEVELOPMENT GROUP 200 E. Bridge St. Elkader, IA 52043 800-488-7572 claytoncountyiowa.com

FORT ATKINSON AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND VISITOR CENTER 244 North Main St. Fort Atkinson, IA 52144 920-563-3210 fortchamber.com

CRESCO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 101 2nd Ave., SW Cresco, IA 52136 563-547-3434 crescochamber.com

GUTTENBERG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 323 S. River Park Dr. Guttenberg, IA 52052 563-252-2323 • 877-252-2323 guttenbergiowa.net

DECORAH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE / WINNESHIEK COUNTY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 507 West Water Street Decorah, IA 52101 563-463-2023 • 800-463-4692 visitdecorah.com

HOWARD COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 101 2nd Ave. SW Cresco, IA 52136 563-547-3434 howard-county.com

DYERSVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 1100 16th Ave Ct SE Dyersville, IA 52040 563-875-2311 or 1-866-DYERSVILLE dyersville.org ELKADER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 207 N. Main Elkader, IA 52043 563-245-2857 • 866-334-2857 elkader-iowa.com FAYETTE COUNTY TOURISM CENTER SW Corner Hwys 150 & 93 Fayette, IA 52142 800-789-4447 • 563-425-4447 fayettecountyia.com

LANSING AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 340 Main St. Lansing, IA 52151 563-538-4544 lansingiowa.org LIME SPRINGS 563-566-4405 limesprings.com

MCGREGOR-MARQUETTE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 146 Main St. Mcgregor, IA 52157 800-896-0910 • 563-873-2186 mcgreg-marq.org NEW HORIZONS CHAMBER 15 W Main St. New Hampton, IA 50659 641-394-2021 discovernewhampton.com OSAGE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 808 Main Street Osage, IA 50461 641-732-3163 osagechamber.com RICEVILLE AREA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 641-985-2442 • 641-985-4030 riceville.govoffice2.com wgwltrail.com WAUKON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 101 W. Main St. Waukon, IA 52172 563-568-4110 waukon.org

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Contact the office at 800-599-0481 with any questions!

Wisconsin Area Visitor Centers VISITOR CENTER AT WINGS OVER ALMA 110 N Main St Alma, WI 54610 608-685-3303 almawisconsin.com GALESVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE P.O. Box 196 Galesville, WI 54630 608) 582-2868 galesvillewi.com LA CROSSE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 601 7th St. N • La Crosse, WI 54601 608-784-4880 • 800-889-0539 lacrossechamber.com LA CROSSE CONVENTION & VISITOR BUREAU 410 E. Veterans Memorial Dr. La Crosse, WI 54601 608-782-2366 explorelacrosse.com PLATTEVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Hwy 151, Box 16 • Platteville, WI 53818 608-348-8888 platteville.com

PRAIRIE DU CHIEN AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & TOURSIM/REGIONAL TOURISM CENTER - WISCONSIN TRAVEL CENTER 211 S Main St, PO Box 326 Prairie du Chien, WI 53821 608-326-8555 or 1-800-732-1673 prairieduchien.org SPARTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE/ SPARTA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 111 Milwaukee St. • Sparta, WI 54656 608-269-4123 bikesparta.org TOMAH CHAMBER - VISITORS CENTER 901 Kilbourn Ave • Tomah, WI 54660 608-372-2166 • 800-948-6624 tomahwisconsin.com

WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM P O Box 7976 • Madison, WI 53707 608-266-7621 • 800-432-TRIP travelwisconsin.com

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TREMPEALEAU CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 24455 3rd St. • Trempealeau, WI 54661 608-534-6780 trempealeau.net TREMPEALEAU COUNTY TOURISM COUNCIL P O Box 243 • Trempealeau, WI 54661 ruralexperiences.com

VI SI T B L U F FCO UNTRY.CO M/THE BE S T

128 I Alma/La Crosse, WI

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

njoy the early river town atmosphere of the 19th Century in Alma! Perched on a narrow strip of land between the Mississippi River and 500-foot limestone bluffs, this small town is only two streets wide, with 12 unique stairstep streets and a “dugway” to the top of the bluff. Alma is designated as a National Historic District because of the preservation of over 200 waterfront 19th century buildings. Some of these are now great lodging options. Alma offers 30 trains a day for train buffs, the old Burlington Railroad Hotel, and a walking bridge over the tracks to Lock & Dam #4, where you can stand and watch the trains pass. Alma is well known for bald eagles, tundra swans, herons and pelicans. Rieck’s Lake offers opportunities to view migrating tundra swans. View bald eagles all year in Alma, but from December through February, wintering bald eagles congregate around Lock and Dam #4 to feed. Alma is the only local river town to offer lock and dam viewing from city streets, with two area marinas, four boat ramps and a sand swimming beach. The mid-town courtesy dock offers visitors the opportunity to dock and enjoy the city’s many attractions. Whether you want to explore the quaint shops and galleries, dine in some great restaurants, see a world-class collection of authentic arms and armor at Castlerock Museum, or enjoy nature by paddling trails of the Mississippi backwaters, fishing, hiking the trails, or birding, you’ll fill your visit with great memories! Stop at our Wings Over Alma Visitor Center or visit almawisconsin.com for more.

Arms, ms, Armor and Art

come and see

a world class museum on the great river road

Authentic arms and armor used by Grecians, Romans, Dark Age Warriors, Vikings, Crusaders and Renaissance “Knights in Shining Armor.” Open Fridays and Saturdays, 1 to 4 pm (Sundays – June through August) Group days by appointment www.castlerockmuseum.com 402 South 2nd Street, Alma, WI 54610

La Crosse, WI

L Fun n’ the Sun Houseboat Vacations

The Elite Fleet on the Upper Mississippi River From Alma, WI 888-343-5670 • funsun.com these deluxe houseboats come with 1 or 2 baths, private staterooms, full kitchen with microwave, waterslides and deluxe furnishings. amenities like air conditioning, DVD, gas grill, stereo & much more.

a Crosse was incorporated as a city in 1856, but its history dates further. The first Europeans to see the site of La Crosse were French fur traders who traveled the Mississippi River in the late 17th century. There is no written record, however, of any visit to the site until 1805, when Lt. Zebulon Pike mounted an expedition up the Mississippi River for the U.S. Pike recorded the location’s name as “Prairie La Crosse.” The name originated when he saw the Native Americans playing a game with sticks that resembled a bishop’s crozier, or la crosse in French. A small Mormon community settled at La Crosse in 1844, building several dozen cabins a few miles south of Myrick’s post. The land they occupied near La Crosse continues to bear the name Mormon Coulee. In 1850, Father James Lloyd Breck of the Episcopal Church said the first Christian liturgy on top of Grandad Bluff. Today a monument to that event stands atop the bluff, near a scenic overlook. More permanent development took place closer to Myrick’s trading post, where stores, a hotel, and a post office were constructed during the 1840s. The city grew rapidly after 1858 with the completion of the La Crosse & Milwaukee Railroad, the second railroad connecting Milwaukee to the Mississippi River. During the second half of the 19th century, La Crosse CONTINUED ON PAGE 129

www.visitbluffcountry.com

La Crosse, WI I 129

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 128

grew to become one of the largest cities in Wisconsin, and today it is the largest city on Wisconsin’s western border. Around the turn of the 20th century, the city also became a center for education, with three colleges and universities established in the city between 1890 and 1912; these institutions have recently led the city toward becoming a regional technology and medical hub. The meandering waterways of the La Crosse area are a paddling paradise, offering wetlands courses for gentle canoe rides as well as moderate to strenuous kayaking adventures along the Mississippi, Black, or La Crosse Rivers. Canoe trails, launches, and outfitters abound in the area, making it one of the best paddling destinations in the region. Situated directly on the Mississippi River just three miles south is the largest county campground, Goose Island Campground & Park, popular for its nature trails, excellent fishing, and beautiful views. The canoe trail has seven miles of moderate paddling that takes 4-5 hours to complete. Canoe rentals are available from Goose Island County Park. Many other area towns offer outdoor services and rentals, giving you ample opportunity for southwest Wisconsin touring. Shopping and dining is at its best in La Crosse, with a large variety of ethnic restaurants, family diners, and supper clubs, commercial and independent stores, one of the largest antique malls in the state, plus loads of arts and culture and well-known festivals.

Antique Center Downtown La Crosse

110 South 3rd Street • One of the Midwest’s finest shops • 20,000 sq. ft. of quality antiques • 70+ booths • 1 block from the La Crosse Center Mon.-Sat. 9 am-5:30 pm Sun. 11 am - 5:30 pm

608-782-6533

www.antiquecenteroflacrosse.com Come In For A Unique Shopping Experience

Cruise the Mississippi APRIL THROUGH OCTOBER Sightseeing Cruises Q Lunch Cruises Q 3-hour Cruises Q Pizza Cruises Q Weeknight & Weekend Dinner Cruises Q Brunch Cruises Q

lacrossequeen.com 405 Veterans Memorial Drive Q P.O. Box 1805 Q La Crosse, WI 54602 Q 608-784-8523 Q kathy@lacrossequeen.com

130 I La Crosse/Platteville/Warrens, WI

PLEDGE NEVER TO FORGET Experience a lasting and moving tribute to our veterans. Open Monday through Saturday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., display includes many personal photos and stories. Touch screen monitors provide an interactive experience.

Visit, experience and honor our veterans.

The Veterans Hall of Honor Veterans Memorial Field Sports Complex on the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse Campus UW-LA CROSSE FOUNDATION INC. EastAve. Ave.N.N.|| La Crosse, 615615 East Crosse,WI WI 54602 54601| 608.785.6803 | 608.785.6803 foundation@uwlax.edu | |www.foundation.uwlax.edu foundation@uwlax.edu www.uwlax.edu/foundation

Warrens, WI

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

Platteville, WI

TPLEDGE NEVER TO FORGET

he charm of southwest Wisconsin is especially present in the city of Platteville. Surrounded by rolling topography, this area hosts some of the most breathtaking sights in the state. Besides being home to a University of WisExperience a lasting and to our of veterans. consin campus, Platteville also moving offers a tribute smorgasbord things to see and do.Monday Recreational fly p.m., fishing, Open through opportunities Saturday 8 a.m.like to 4:30 display personal photos and stories. a round hiking or biking theincludes scenicmany landscape, and enjoying Touch screen monitors an interactive of golf should keep you busy.provide On the culturalexperience. side, the city provides artVisit, galleries and unique thatveterans. showcase Platexperience andmuseums honor our teville’s rich mining history. The historic downtown district makes for a great way to spend a day shopping and visiting with Platteville’s friendly residents. For an extended stay, there are plenty of places to call home for a comfortable vacation. Platteville is also home to one of eight Travel Wisconsin Welcome Centers, conveniently located at Exit 18 on Highway 151. The Center is open year-round, and seven days a week from May 1 to November 1. Come discover the southwest corner of the state with a visit to this choice destination. Veterans Memorial Field Sports Complex on the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse Campus

The Veterans Hall of Honor

Sand Berg LLC. UW-LA CROSSE FOUNDATIONRetreat INC. 615 East Ave. N. | La Crosse, WI 54602 | 608.785.6803 foundation@uwlax.edu | www.foundation.uwlax.edu

The Perfect Getaway

27874 Jericho Road, Platteville WI 53818

A two and a half story fully equipped home away from home. Lots of quiet, scenic surroundings and amenities. Have a quiliting party, a stamping or carding group, a reception, a honeymoon, or just a quiet getaway. Handicapped accessible and available for up to a week stay.

For reservation and more information call or email 608.762.5569 or sandbergprarie@yousq.net Opens At

7:00 am All 3 Days

• 850 Arts & Crafts Booths • 350 Antiques & Flea Market Booths • Cranfest Marsh Tours FRIDAY & SATURDAY • 100 Farm Market Booths • 100 Food Vendors • Gigantic Parade SUNDAY AT 1 8 miles North of Tomah >> Take I-94 West to Exit 135 WWW.CRANFEST.COM • CRANFEST@CRANFEST.COM

PHONE: 608-378-4200 • FAX: 608-378-4250

ome of the world’s largest cranberry festival, Warrens hosts more than 120,000 visitors during the last full weekend each September to experience three amazing days of shopping, food, contests, marsh tours and more. But, if you’ve only visited Warrens during cranberry season, it’s time to see what if offers year round! You can spend your entire vacation here in the Cranberry Capital of Wisconsin! Local campgrounds, log-style villas, vacation homes and a luxury hotel offer the ideal settings for relaxation after swimming in our indoor and outdoor water parks, riding our ATV routes and snowmobile trails, touring a cranberry marsh, and visiting the Wisconsin Cranberry Discovery Center (Warren’s unofficial visitor’s center) to learn all about Wisconsin’s No. 1 fruit crop. Our area has plenty of restaurants and lodging options, local fruit and vegetable farms, specialty shops, and other area businesses and services available to you during your visit to Warrens. Are you looking to retire or raise your children in a small town? While Warrens has less than 400 year-round residents, it boasts an elementary school, a clinic, new playground, softball field, parks, several youth and adult organizations, and five churches located in or near Warrens. Go to visitwarrens.com for more scheduled events and information.

Winery & Brewery Tour Map I 131

www.visitbluffcountry.com

WINERY AND BREWERY

TOUR MAP

200 MILES

HIGHLIGHTS 1

Reads Landing Brewing Co. (Brewery) 70555 202nd Ave, Reads Landing, MN (651) 560-4777

Garvin Heights Vineyard (Winery) 2255 Garvin Heights Rd, Winona, MN (507) 474-9463

Karst Brewing (Brewery) 315 1st St, Fountain, MN (612) 747-6367

Winneshiek Wildberry Winery (Winery) 1966 337th St, Decorah, IA (563) 735-5809

Pulpit Rock Brewing Co. (Brewery) 207 College Dr, Decorah, IA (563) 380-3610

Toppling Goliath Brewing Co. (Brewery) 1600 Prosperity Rd, Decorah, IA (563) 387-6700

Empty Nest Winery (Winery) 1352 Apple Rd, Waukon, IA (563) 568-2758

Eagles Landing Winery (Winery) 127 North St, Marquette, IA (563) 873-1905

PromiseLand Winery (Winery) 39053 Great River Rd, Guttenberg, IA (563) 252-2665

A LITTLE BIT ABOUT THEM READS LANDING BREWING CO. Reads Landing, MN (651) 560-4777 rlbrewingco.com

GARVIN HEIGHTS VINEYARD Winona, MN (507) 474-9463 ghvwine.com

KARST BREWING Fountain, MN (612) 747-6367 karstbrewed.com

PULPIT ROCK BREWING CO. Decorah, IA (563) 380-3610 pulpitrockbrewing.net

WINNESHIEK WILDBERRY WINERY Decorah, IA (563) 735-5809 wwwinery.com

TOPPLING GOLIATH BREWING CO. Decorah, IA (563) 387-6700 tgbrews.com

EMPTY NEST WINERY Waukon, IA (563) 568-2758 emptynestwinery.com

EAGLES LANDING WINERY Marquette, IA (563) 873-1905 eagleslandingwinery.com

PROMISELAND WINERY Guttenberg, IA (563) 252-2665 promiselandwinery.com

Reads Landing Brewing Company brews our handcrafted beers on site. Our ingredients are purchased from local vendors per brew to ensure freshness and quality. Our grains are purchased whole and milled on-site. We also mill our brewer’s grains for a local bakery that produces our burger and sandwich buns. Our spent grains are donated to a local farmer. We utilize an all-grain, 3-vessel, 3-barrel all-electric brewhouse with a Brewmation control panel. The wort is pumped into a separate temperature controlled fermentation room where it goes through a traditional fermenting and conditioning process.

Drs. Linda and Marvin Seppanen started growing grapes on Garvin Heights over 25 years ago. In 2006 we received their our Federal winery permit and started building a winery building. In 2007 we received our Minnesota farm winery license and opened for wine tasting and retail sales. In 2015 we added the Ridgeview Event Center to host groups of up to 100 guests. See why we call Garvin Heights Vineyards Minnesota’s “Most Scenic Winery”. No appointments needed for groups 10 or less – continuous wine tasting. For more information check out Facebook and become a friend to Garvin Heights Vineyards.

Eric and Sandy welcome you to the first postprohibition brewery in Fillmore County! Karst Brewing is a small brewery in the small town of Fountain, MN, and is conveniently located en route to many Bluff Country destinations. Thank you for your interest in our small batch "nano" brewery, where we serve fresh craft beer!

Built out of an old dairy facility and originally situated next to a laundromat, Pulpit Rock Brewing opened its bay doors during the summer of '15. Founded by four Luther alumni, fueled by two head-brewers and driven by a small taproom team (and the occasional volunteer), this modest brewery embraces the opportunity to produce and serve exciting and innovative beers. With a rotating tap list that balances classic styles, unabashed hop-enthusiasm and adventurous flavor-infusions, we aim to provide our guests with a spectrum of tastes and experiences.

Enjoy a fun, friendly wine experience amidst the beautiful, rolling hills of Northeast Iowa. Winneshiek Wildberry Winery is a family owned and operated winery specializing in award winning fruit and Midwestern grape table wine in Decorah, Iowa. The winery is located on our 150year family farm between Decorah, Iowa and Mabel, Minnesota.

Clark and Barb Lewey founded Toppling Goliath Brewing Company in 2009 here in beautiful Decorah, Iowa, after a runaway success in home brewing. In less than a decade TG has become world-renown for IPAs and barrel-aged stouts, distributes to over 17 states and brews more than 30 beers. In order to meet overwhelming demand, the Lewey's have built a new 100-barrel system brewery in Decorah, IA which houses our taproom, restaurant, offices and brewery in one location. TG prides itself in crafting truly top shelf beer and is honored to be growing with the support of its many customers worldwide.

Our winery is breathtaking & charming, made from our reclaimed 100 year old family barn. Come sit & relax inside or out on our patio & gazebo and your stress will melt away. You must step foot inside to appreciate this beautiful venue! Our winery tasting room has a fun & relaxed atmosphere so you can meet friends to taste & enjoy a glass of wine, sangria, pint of craft beer, cider or cans of your favorite beer and always free popcorn to munch on.

Eagles Landing Winery is a small family business located in downtown Marquette, Iowa, along the Mississippi River on the Great River Road. We are located 3 miles from Pikes Peak State Park, 3 miles from Effigy Mounds National Monument, 10 miles from Yellow River State Forest and 15 miles from Wyalusing State Park in Wisconsin. Our first grapes where planted in 1999 and have been producing our own "Marquette Maid" branded wines since 2003. Our wines can be found at over 135 locations in Iowa and Wisconsin.

PromiseLand Winery is a family-run operation, located in the Southern hills of Guttenberg, IA, on the Great River Road. Owners, Pat and Cindy Wachendorf, offer a one-of-a-kind experience, that will make you feel right at home. Inside the winery, you will find a spacious tasting room, an event room that can be used for small to mediumsized parties, and 6 boutiques that will fulfill your shopping needs! Feel free to take a walk or drive up to our vineyard to see where our award-winning wines began. Enjoy some music in the front courtyard when the weather is nice or warm up by a cozy fire when it’s too cold to be outside!

WANT TO BE ON THIS MAP?

Since 2015, Pulpit Rock has honored the craft of brewing

We invite you to spend a day in the country sipping wine and enjoying the seasonal view from the patio!

We have 10 taps of craft beers and hard ciders.

TURNING GRAPES INTO WINE AND STRANGERS INTO FRIENDS

132 I Wisconsin Area Map

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

WISCONSIN AREA MAP TO SEE A FULL MAP AND MORE DETAILS VISIT THE WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION WEBSITE

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Wisconsin Area Map I 133

134 I Calendar of Events

MINNESOTA APRIL 2019 Second Fri. Over the Back Fence radio show, St. Mane Theatre, 7:30 pm, (Mar-Nov)..Lanesboro 13

13 26-28 27

MN Trout Fishing Opener...............................................................Statewide Trout Classic Fishing Opener..........................................................Chatfield Bluff Country Studio Art Tour.......................... Area Communities Lipmasters Fishing Tournament..................................... Rushford

MAY 2019 Second Fri. Over the Back Fence radio show, St. Mane Theatre, 7:30 pm, (Mar-Nov)..Lanesboro

3-4 4 5 16-19

Mid West Music Fest ....................................................... Winona Bluebell Festival............................................................ Plainview Dick Hiley Memorial-St. Jude’s Fishing Tournament...... Wabasha Bluff Country Gathering................................................Lanesboro

17-19 17-19 17-19 18 18 26

SEMBA Spring Bluegrass Festival................................... Houston Trout Days........................................................................ Preston Syttende Mai Celebration.........................................Spring Grove Root River Triathlon......................................................... Houston Whalan Stand-Still Parade.................................................Whalan MN State Veterans Cemetery Memorial Day Ceremony.... Preston

JUNE 2019 Thursdays Music in the Park, 7:30 pm .......................................... Chatfield Second Fri. Over the Back Fence radio show, St. Mane Theatre, 7:30 pm, (Mar-Nov)..Lanesboro

1 Rhubarb Festival.........................................................Lanesboro 8-9 Adams Dairy Days.............................................................Adams 8 Lake Louise State Park Open House...................................LeRoy 1 2-16 Steamboat Days.............................................................. Winona 13 Rhythm by the River........................................................ Preston 15 Founder’s Day Festival.................................................Caledonia 15 Art in the Park............................................................. Lanesboro 22 Gammel Dag Fest...........................................................Peterson 6/25-8/4 Great River Shakespeare Festival..................................... Winona 6/30-7/21 Minnesota Beethoven Festival.......................................... Winona

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country 15-21 Fillmore County Fair....................................................... Preston 15-21 Rushford Days............................................................... Rushford 17-21 RASA Annual Theatre Production ................................ Rushford 18-21 Ye Olde Opera House Summer Musical...................Spring Grove 19 FLW College Fishing Tournament................................. Wabasha 19-21 Summer-Fest.....................................................................LeRoy 19-21 Annual Root River Antique Engine & Tractor Show............. Spring Valley. 20 Spring Creek MX Pro National........................................Millville 25 Music in the Park, 7:30 pm (June-July) ....................... Chatfield 26-28 Houston Hoedown Days................................................. Houston 27 150th Celebration...........................................................Fountain 27 Riverboat Days.............................................................. Wabasha

AUGUST 2019 Second Fri. Over the Back Fence radio show, St. Mane Theatre, 7:30 pm, (Mar-Nov)..Lanesboro

August

HARC Art Month ........................................................... Houston.

6/25-8/24 2-4 8-11 10 10 10-11 13-18 14-18 14-18 15 15-18 16-18 17

Great River Shakespeare Festival..................................... Winona Buffalo Bill Days..........................................................Lanesboro Western Days................................................................ Chatfield ‘50s & ‘60s Day..................................................................Mabel Root River Jam.............................................................. Rushford Millville Valley River Days...............................................Millville Ag Days Celebration................................................Spring Valley Houston County Fair....................................................Caledonia Corn on the Cob Days.................................................. Plainview Rhythm by the River........................................................ Preston SEMBA Summer Bluegrass Festival............................... Houston Canton Day Off Celebration.............................................. Canton. Bluff Land Tri: Run, Bike, Hike....................................... Rushford

SEPTEMBER 2019 Second Fri. Over the Back Fence radio show, St. Mane Theatre, 7:30 pm, (Mar-Nov)..Lanesboro

9/6-10/26 SeptOberfest.................................................................. Wabasha 6-8 Watermelon Fest............................................................. Kellogg 7 Taste of the Trail............................ Lanesboro, Peterson, Whalan 7-8 Hesper-Mabel Steam Engine Days.....................................Mabel 14 Taste of the Trail...............................Fountain, Harmony, Preston 21 Taste of the Trail.................Houston, Rushford, Rushford Village JULY 2019 Boats and Bluegrass Festival........................................... Winona Sundays Music in the Bandstand, 5-7pm.....................................Peterson 26-29 2 7-29 Fall Festival.......................................................................Wykoff Second Fri. Over the Back Fence radio show, St. Mane Theatre, 7:30 pm, (Mar-Nov)..Lanesboro.. 6/25-8/4 Great River Shakespeare Festival..................................... Winona OCTOBER 2019 6/30-7/21 Minnesota Beethoven Festival.......................................... Winona 4-7 4th of July Celebration.................................................. Harmony Second Fri. Over the Back Fence radio show, St. Mane Theatre, 7:30 pm, (Mar-Nov)...Lanesboro 11 Music in the Park, 7:30 pm (June-July) ....................... Chatfield 9/6-10/26 SeptOberfest.................................................................. Wabasha Festival of Quilts.....................................................Spring Grove. 11 Rhythm by the River........................................................ Preston 4-5 Uff Da Fest .................................................................... Spring Grove 12-14 Rose Creek Fun Days.................................................Rose Creek 4-5 Fall Foliage Weekend............................................................ Harmony 13 Annual Dixieland Jazz Festival........................................ Winona 4-6

Calendar of Events I 135

www.visitbluffcountry.com 5 5 6 19 19-20 26

Fall Festival of Color............................................................... Chatfield Fall into Lanesboro...............................................................Lanesboro. Smaczne Jablka Fest (Tasty Apple)......................................... Winona Haunted Harmony......................................................... Harmony Hot Air Balloon Rally....................................................Caledonia Pumpkin Fest & Fall Expo............................................... Preston

7 7-9 8 8 9-12 14 14-15 15 20-30 21 22 22 22 26-30 28 28

Party in the Park, 5-9pm............................................. Charles City Free Iowa resident fishing.............................................Iowa waters Art by the River Fine Arts Festival..................................Guttenberg Summer Treasure Fest.......................................................... Osage The Great Eastern Iowa Tractorcade........................based in Cresco Classic Car Night.........................................................Charles City Hawkeye Fun Days............................................................ Hawkeye Field of Dreams 30th Anniversary Celebration................ Dyersville Show - “Oklahoma!”............................................................. Osage Party in the Park, 5-9pm............................................. Charles City Laura Ingalls Wilder Celebration.......................................Burr Oak Charles City Challenge Whitewater Weekend.............. Charles City Lazy River Beer & Wine Festival.....................................Marquette Mighty Howard County Fair.................................................Cresco Classic Car Night........................................................ Charles City Rhythm on the River............................................................Elkader

Lighted Parade................................................................. Canton. 29 Wreaths for the Fallen, MN State Veterans Cemetery....... Preston Parade of Lights............................................................ Rushford 4 JANUARY 2020 5 20 Bowls and Brews Cook-off............................................... Preston 6 25 Chatfield Chill Fest......................................................... Chatfield 5-14 8-14 FEBRUARY 2020 9-13 1 Whalan Candlelight Ski..................................................... Whalan 12 5-9 Frozen River Film Festival.................................................Winona 12-14 22 Veteran’s Ice Fishing Tournament....................................Chatfield 15-28 17-21 MARCH 2020 17-21 7-8 International Festival of Owls........................................... Houston 19 20 25-27 25-28 26 APRIL 2019 26 13 Rock ‘n Roll on the River.............................................. Guttenberg 26-28 Bluff Country Studio Art Tour.............Area NE Iowa Communities 1-11 MAY 2019 2 Fri. 10-31 Classic Car Night........................................................ Charles City. 2-3 11 Music & Monarchs............................................................. Elkader 3 17 Syttende Mai.................................................................... Decorah 3-4 25-27 Spring Arts & Crafts Festival..........................................McGregor 8-11 9 JUNE 2019 9-11 1 Rhubarb on the River Festival.......................................Manchester 10

Iowa Games Whitewater Slalom Events........................Charles City

NOVEMBER 2019 Second Fri. Over the Back Fence radio show, St. Mane Theatre, 7:30 pm, (Mar-Nov)..Lanesboro

2-3 23 28

Old Time Radio Theater.......................................................LeRoy Holiday Fest................................................................... Harmony Fillmore County Turkey Day Run........................................... Preston .

DECEMBER 2019 7 Hollidazzle...................................................................... Houston 7-8 Hot Air Balloon Rally....................................................Caledonia 14 14 14

IOWA

JULY 2019 Fireworks over Lake Hendricks..........................................Riceville Classic Car Night.........................................................Charles City Stars & Stripes Celebration.......................................... Guttenberg Show - “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”........................Osage Delaware County Fair................................................... Manchester Winneshiek County Fair.................................................... Decorah Party in the Park, 5-9pm............................................. Charles City Moto Guzzi Rally Show.......................................................Elkader Show - “9 to 5”.....................................................................Osage Floyd County Fair........................................................Charles City Allamakee County Fair....................................................... Waukon Classic Car Night.........................................................Charles City Great River Car Show & Cruise.......................................McGregor Nordic Fest....................................................................... Decorah Elkader Sweet Corn Days....................................................Elkader Party in the Park, 5-9pm............................................. Charles City Rhythm on the River............................................................Elkader

AUGUST 2019 Show - “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”... Osage Classic Car Night.........................................................Charles City Wapsipinicon Festival....................................................... Riceville Bacon N Hops Festival................................................. Manchester Eastern Iowa Carriage Glow..........................................Manchester Sweet Corn Days....................................................... Lime Springs Party in the Park, 5-9pm............................................. Charles City Fish Days...........................................................................Lansing Celebrate Guttenberg/Celebrate the River..................... Guttenberg

136 I Calendar of Events

16 16 17 17-18 19 23 25 30 30 31

Classic Car Night.........................................................Charles City Waukon Corn Days............................................................Waukon Arts & Heritage Fair.................................................... Charles City Art in the Park, Fine Arts Festival........................................Elkader Abel Island Fly In/Float In............................................. Guttenberg Classic Car Night.........................................................Charles City Hero Hustle Sprint Triathlon......................................... Manchester Classic Car Night.........................................................Charles City Rhythm on the River............................................................Elkader Labor Day Parade & Festivities.......................................McGregor

A Guide to Historic Bluff Country

1-2

Wisconsin Free Fishing Weekend.........................Wisconsin cities

1-2

Wisconsin Free State Park Weekend.....................Wisconsin cities

Fire in the Shire! (Renaissance)............................................. Alma

Make Music Celebration................................................. Platteville

Cranberry Blossom Day.....................................................Warrens

JULY 2019 3-6 Riverfest..........................................................................La Crosse

26-27 27

SEPTEMBER 2019 Fridays 1 18-20 21

Classic Car Night......................................................Charles City Team of Dreams...........................................................Dyersville Norman Borlaug Harvest Fest.......................................... Cresco Cruise to Cresco Car Show.............................................. Cresco

AUGUST 2019 9-11

Irish Fest.........................................................................La Crosse

23-25

Great River Folk Festival.................................................La Crosse

SEPTEMBER 2019

21 River Park Cruisers Car Show & Cruise..................... Guttenberg 1 21 Railroad Days ..............................................................Marquette . 26-29 27-28 GermanFest................................................................ Guttenberg 27-29 28-29 Fort Atkinson Rendezvous...................................... Fort Atkinson 28-29 Fall-Der-All Celebration..................................................Froelich 5

OCTOBER 2019

5 5-6 11-13 12 12-13

Harvest Festival................................................................Elkader Fall Arts & Crafts Festival.............................................McGregor NE Iowa Studio Arts Tour...........................Northeast Iowa towns Witchfest.................................................................. Charles City Leaf Arts & Craft Festival..............................................McGregor

Santaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Holiday Parade......................................................Cresco

NOVEMBER 2019

Swiss Heritage Days.............................................................. Alma Rail Fair..........................................................................La Crosse

Music & Arts Festival............................................................. Alma Oktoberfest......................................................................La Crosse Cranberry Festival.............................................................Warrens

OCTOBER 2019 Cranberry Harvest Day.......................................................Warrens

NOVEMBER 2019 11/29-12/31 Rotary Lights...............................................................La Crosse

DECEMBER 2019 11/29-12/31 Rotary Lights................................................................La Crosse

JANUARY-MARCH 2020

Jan-March Wings Over Alma............................................................................Alma

DECEMBER 2019

Holiday Lighted Parade.............................................Charles City

WISCONSIN APRIL 2019 17-18

Midwest Music Festival.................................................. La Crosse

Great River Birding Festival....................................................Alma

MAY 2019 JUNE 2019 1-2

Wisconsin Free State Bike Trail Days....................Wisconsin cities

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Visit the vibrant town of Charles City, IA to experience warm, inviting yet bright and inspiring shopping at The Rustic Corner!

Northeast Iowa’s Award WInNIng Home DecoR & MoRe Store Wall Hangings & Decor ● Ladies Fashions Fashion Accessories ● Cards & Gift Wrap Gifts for All Ages & Occasions Weekly Wine & Canvas Classes Discover why we’re worth the trip - every time!

Open Tues - Fri 10 am to 6 pm, Saturday 9 am - 4 pm Open Sundays in Nov/Dec 11 am - 4 pm

Visit Facebook.com/TheRusticCorner for event & sale dates

413 N Main Street • Charles City, IA 50616 641-228-2657 • TheRusticCorner.com

19708 Camp Winnebago Rd Caledonia, mn 55921

ph: (507) 724-2351

e: WinnebagospRings@hotmail.Com

event CenteR. shelteR Rental. lodging. The newly renovated cabins are great for housing wedding guests, hunters, fishermen, nature enthusiasts, snowmobilers or just a peaceful get away. The cabins have full kitchens, lots of room, Wi-Fi, charcoal grills and beautiful views. We can house up to 72 guests on site. With both an event center and lodging facilities, Winnebago Springs makes a great place to hold a company retreat.

WWW.WinnebagospRings.Com C-6 |

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SE MINNESOTA • NE IOWA • SW WISCONSIN • NW ILLINOIS | VISIT BLUFF COUNTRY 2019-2020

Southern Minnesota’s Premier Bed & Breakfast Treat yourself to a stay in this 1897 Victorian home which boasts of an elegance and romance unsurpassed in our modern times. Enjoy the library, fireplaces, porches, many collections and extravagant dining room. Take home with you memories and friendships for a lifetime…

90 minutes from the twin Cities, 20 minutes from roChester and Lanesboro Six Suites, each with a private bath Full Breakfast / Free Wireless Internet No Pets / Children age 12+

*Ask about our Mayo Clinic rates

www.oakenwaldterrace.com • 218 Winona St, Chatfield, MN 507-867-3806

“I have never seen anything like it, the house, the food, the hospitality…remarkable…”

chatfield center for the arts & the historic Potter Auditorium where culture, history, and community meet in the Chosen Valley of Southeast Minnesota

Featuring the 650-seat, fully renovated Potter Auditorium and a 100-person capacity convertible listening room at the heart of the Chatfield, MN. Chatfield Center for the Arts is the place to experience original award winning musicians or reconnect with the sounds of your favorite artists. Bring your family to a free community concert or an afternoon of art making. Take in an art exhibit in the 1916 Gallery. Rent space to host your company meeting or next family gathering. All at the CCA in the Chosen Valley.

Home to Wits’ End Theatre With a 14-year history of inspired and imaginative theatrical productions, Wits’ End is non-profit community theater company that makes theater accessible for all ages to enjoy and actively participate in.

405 MAIN ST S | CHATFIELD, MN | 507.884.7676 | chatfieldarts.org Chatfield Center for the Arts is a non-profit organization.

Activities made possible by the voters of Minnesota through grants from SEMAC thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts & cultural heritage fund.

VISIT BLUFF COUNTRY 2019-2020 | SE MINNESOTA • NE IOWA • SW WISCONSIN • NW ILLINOIS

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