Visit Bluff Country Visitor's Guide 2014-2015 by Visit Bluff Country

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S E M i n n e sot a ~ N E Iow a ~ SW Wis cons in | 2014-2015 | Vis itor ’s Gui d e

Se MinneS otA ~ n e iowA ~ Sw wiS c onS i n

Visitor’s Guide A G uide

H istoric B luff c ountry

A pu b l i cAti o n by

A pu b l i c At i o n by

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Cedar Valley Resort es in r Thirty ac of the the heart r Valley e Root Riv

& Outfitters

Located on the Root River Bike Trail & Root River just 5 minutes East of Lanesboro on Hwy 16

Shuttles - Bikes - Canoes, Kayaks, Tubes X-Skis - Frisbee Golf - Snow Tubes 3,4,6 & 8 Bedroom Log-sided Cabins “All built between 2001-2009” • Great Rooms / Fireplaces • Complete Kitchens with Dishwashers

507-467-9000 www.cedarvalleyresort.com

Cedar Valley is the perfect setting and accomodates for families, groups, reunions or retreats.

Open All Year-Round!

The Old Barn Resort & Rivers’ Bend Golf Located between Preston and Lanesboro off County Road 17

Full Restaurant and Bar

~ Open April - mid-November ~ BBQ and On-Site Smoked Specialties with Full Menu ~ Lunch and Dinner Daily ~ Casual & Fun Atmosphere ~ Banquet Facilities up to 250

Gre Sceneat ry

Rivers’ Bend Golf

~ 18 Challenging Holes ~ Par 70 ~ Voted Bluff Country’s Favorite Golf Course

ESTABLISHED 1990

Camping & Lodging

~ 275 Site Campground ~ 38-bed, 4-room Hostel ~ 3 Season Pool ~ Voted Bluff Country’s Best Campground

507-467-2512 • www.BarnResort.com

TrailHead Inn and Suites Located Directly on the Root River State Bike Trail

All New Honeymoon Suite! 24 Spacious Rooms - Suites - Doubles - Singles - Complimentary Breakfast - New Hot Tub / Sauna Room - Conference Room For Information or Reservations

(507)765-2460

Trail Head Parking Lot, Preston, MN

2 New Cabins

www.trailhead-inn.com Clothing Selection

T-Shirts • Sweatshirts • Hats • Raincoats with logo of Root River Trail & Trail Head Inn

C-4 |

SE Minnesota ~ NE IOWA ~ SW Wisconsin Visitor’s Guide 2014-2015

Welcome to Bluff Country 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 sixty 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 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, SE MN, NE IA, and SW WI, is an ideal place for a getaway.

Caledonia...................................................... 6-13 Canton......................................................... 13-14 Chatfield.....................................................14-17 Fountain.....................................................18-19 Harmony.....................................................19-27 Houston..................................................... 28-30 Historic Bluff Country..................................30 Lanesboro................................................. 31-40 Whalan........................................................41-42 LeRoy.......................................................... 42-44 Rose Creek/Adams.................................45-46 Mabel.......................................................... 46-50 Peterson..................................................... 50-52 Preston....................................................... 53-60 Rushford.................................................... 61-68 City of Rushford Village....................... 69-70 Spring Grove.............................................70-74 Spring Valley.............................................74-79 St. Charles.........................................................79 Winona.......................................................80-83 Wykoff...............................................................84

IOWA

Burr Oak............................................................90 Charles City......................................................91 Clermont..........................................................92 Cresco......................................................... 92-95 Decorah................................................... 96-101 Elkader.............................................................102 Elma.........................................................103-104 Fort Atkinson............................................... 104 Fredericksburg............................................ 105 Froelich.......................................................... 105 Lime Springs........................................106-107 Marquette/McGregor............................... 108 Nashua........................................................... 109 Oelwein.......................................................... 109 Osage.......................................................110-111 Riceville................................................... 111-112 Saint Ansgar..........................................113-114 Waukon...................................................114-115

WISCONSIN

Galesville................................................121-122 La Crosse............................................... 122-123 Area Map, MN..........................................88-89 Area Map, IA..........................................116-117 Business Directory...................................... 2-4 Calendar of Events............................. 126-128 Farmers’ Markets............................................. 5 IA Bike Trail Maps.........................................120 La Crosse Area Bike Map.................. 124-125 Root River Bike Trail Map, MN...................85 Shooting Star Bike Trail Map, MN..............45 Trout Fishing Map, MN.........................86-87 Trout Fishing Map, IA.........................118-119 Visitor Centers, MN.......................................90 Visitor Centers, IA........................................107 Visitor Centers, WI.......................................122

Business Directory Antiques

Bittersweet Boutique & Antiques Buckboard Antiques Evangeline’s Generations of Harmony

Amish Connection HIS Business Little River General Store The Clothes Shop Trailhead Inn

apparel

Lanesboro Caledonia Mabel Harmony

Harmony Spring Grove Lanesboro Winona Preston

Minnesota p. 35 p. 12 p. 49 p. 19

p. 25 p. 70 p. 39 p. 83 p. 58, C-4

Art Galleries

Lanesboro Arts Center Minnesota Marine Art Museum Stone Mill Hotel & Suites

Lanesboro p. 40 Winona p. 82 Lanesboro p. 40 & B. Cover

BANKING SERVICES

F&M Community Bank First Southeast Bank First State Bank First State Bank of Fountain Rushford State Bank

Preston, Chatfield p. 54 Canton, Harmony p. 13 LeRoy, Spring Valley p. 44, 78 Fountain p. 19 Rushford p. 68

Beer/Wine/Spirits

The Club J&B Liquor Off Sale JT’s Corner Bar & Grill Nordic Lanes & Lounge Pam’s Off-Sale Liquor Peterson American Legion Shari’s Sports Saloon Shawnee’s Bar & Grill Stumpy’s Restaurant & Lounge TJ Liquor

Preston LeRoy Houston Rushford Rushford Peterson Chatfield Rushford Rushford Spring Valley

p. 56 p. 43 p. 30 p. 67 p. 65 p. 52 p. 15 p. 66 p. 62 p. 78

Lanesboro

CAMPING/SERVICES

Bluffview Campground Highway 250 Campground Lazy D Campground Maple Springs Campground The Old Barn Resort Valley View Campground

Rushford Lanesboro St. Charles Preston Preston Preston

CONVENIENCE STORES

Fowler’s bp & Food Shop Pam’s Corner Convenience Store River Valley Convenience Store

Spring Valley Rushford Houston

p. 38

p. 67 p. 37 p. 79 p. 56 C-4 P. 60

p. 76 p. 65 p. 28

EATING/DRINKING ESTABLISHMENTS

B&B Olympic Bowl Barista’s Coffee House Branding Iron Supper Club Burdey’s Cafe Canton Pub The Club The Coffee House The Creamery/Nordic Lanes Cross Roads Cafe Doc’s Blue Moose Elsie’s Bar & Grill The Farmhouse Eatery & Gifts

Preston Houston Preston Peterson Canton Preston Caledonia Rushford Houston Spring Grove Caledonia Caledonia

furniture

Countryside Furniture Drury’s Looking Glass Prairie Furniture Store R&J Amish Furniture

p. 57 p. 30 p. 55 p. 51 p. 13 p. 56 p. 12 p. 67 p. 29 p. 74 p. 9 p. 12

Lanesboro Caledonia Winona Harmony Lanesboro Rushford Houston Fountain Rushford Rushford Preston Lanesboro Peterson Caledonia Lanesboro Chatfield Rushford Spring Valley Rushford LeRoy LeRoy Harmony Harmony

p. 38 p. 6 p. 81 p. 24 p. 40 p. 63 p. 30 p. 18 p. 63 p. 62 C-4 p. 34 p. 52 p. 6 p. 36 p. 15 p. 66 p. 77 p. 62 p. 44 p. 43 p. 23 p. 25

Harmony Fountain Harmony Harmony

p. 26 C-3 p. 24 p. 27

Garden/Floral

Alpine Nursery Labrador Home & Garden Mabel Flowers & Gifts Preston Apple & Berry Farm

Houston Rushford Mabel Preston

GENERAL STORES

Little River General Store Rushford Hardware Rentals

BIRD WATCHING Avian Acres’ Wild Bird Supply

Gil B’s Pizza & Sandwich Shoppe Good Times Restaurant & Bar Green Mill Restaurant & Bar Harmony House Intermission Jessie Street Java JT’s Corner Bar & Grill Los Gables Lynndyn Bridge Restaurant Norsland Lefse Old Barn Resort Pedal Pushers Cafe Peterson American Legion Redwood Cafe Riverside on the Root Shari’s Sports Saloon Shawnee’s Bar & Grill Simpson’s A&W Drive-In Stumpy’s Restaurant & Lounge Sweet’s Hotel & Restaurant Travel Lanes & Supper Club Village Square Restaurant The Village Sugar Plum House

Lanesboro Rushford

GIFT SHOPS

Alpine Nursery Amish Connection The Back Porch Bittersweet Boutique & Antiques Countryside Furniture Essence of Harmony Evangeline’s The Farmhouse Eatery & Gifts Generations of Harmony Hammell Equipment HIS Business Hoffmann Tack Shop John’s Yard Art JR Watkins Museum & Store Krazy Kwiltz LeRoy Center for the Creative Arts Little River General Store Mabel Flowers & Gifts Minnesota Marine Art Museum Niagara Cave Norsland Lefse Old Ways ~ New Ideas Pine Cone Place R&C Cabinetry R&J Amish Furniture Split Enz Salon & Crafts

Houston Harmony Spring Grove Lanesboro Harmony Harmony Mabel Caledonia Harmony Harmony Spring Grove Preston Mabel Winona Mabel LeRoy Lanesboro Mabel Winona Harmony Rushford Harmony Caledonia Mabel Harmony Mabel

p. 29 p. 68 p. 49 p. 55

p. 39 p. 64

p. 29 p. 25 p. 73 p. 35 p. 26 p. 24 p. 49 p. 12 p. 19 p. 26 p. 70 p. 59 p. 49 p. 82 p. 49 p. 43 p. 39 p. 49 p. 82 p. 21 p. 62 p. 25 p. 11 p. 48 p. 27 p. 48

Minnesota

Business Directory

Stone Mill Hotel & Suites Turned Write Handcrafted Art Twisted Twig The Village Depot The Village School Quilt Shop The Village Sugar Plum House Winona County History Center Yah Sure, You Betcha Shoppe

Lanesboro p. 40 & B. Cover Peterson p. 50 Spring Grove p. 73 Harmony p. 25 Harmony p. 25 Harmony p. 25 Winona p. 82 Spring Grove p. 73

GOLF COURSES Cedar River Golf Course Ferndale Country Club Preston Golf & Country Club Rivers’ Bend at the Old Barn Resort

Adams Rushford Village Preston Preston

p. 46 p. 70 p. 59 C-4

Grocery/specialty food Harmony Foods Main Street Market Place Norsland Lefse Ody’s Country Meats Pam’s Corner Convenience Pine Tree Apple Orchard Preston Apple & Berry Farm Preston Foods River Valley Convenience Store Rushford Foods Sno Pac Foods Sunshine Foods

Harmony p. 22 LeRoy p. 43 Rushford p. 62 Spring Valley p. 76 Rushford p. 65 Preston p. 58 Preston p. 55 Preston p. 54 Houston p. 28 Rushford p. 63 Caledonia p. 10 Chatfield/Spring Valley p. 17, 78

HUNTING, FISHING, CAMPING SUPPLIES The Driftless Fly Fishing Co. Little River General Store Root River Outfitters Rushford Hardware Rentals True Value

Preston Lanesboro Lanesboro Rushford Spring Valley

p. 58 p. 39 p. 36 p. 64 p. 77

LOcal community services Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce Caledonia Caledonia Area Convention & Tourism Bureau Caledonia City of Chatfield Chatfield City of Fountain Fountain City of Houston Houston City of Peterson Peterson City of Preston Preston City of Rushford Rushford City of Rushford Village Rushford Village City of Spring Grove Spring Grove City of Whalan Whalan City of Wykoff Wykoff Harmony Area Chamber of Commerce Harmony Lanesboro Area Chamber of Commerce Lanesboro LeRoy Commercial Club LeRoy Mabel Business Association Mabel Prairie Visions (LeRoy, Adams, Rose Creek, Taopi) Preston Tourism & Chamber of Commerce Preston Rushford Peterson Valley Chamber of Commerce Rushford Spring Grove Communications Spring Grove Spring Valley EDA Spring Valley Spring Valley Tourism Spring Valley

Lanesboro Harmony

Rushford p. 66 Caledonia p. 11 Houston p. 30 Lanesboro/Whalan p. 41, C-2 Harmony p. 27 Caledonia p. 13 Preston p. 60 Peterson p. 50 Winona p. 83 Caledonia p. 13 Peterson p. 52 Caledonia p. 12 Lanesboro p. 34 Lanesboro p. 33 Winona p. 81 Preston p. 56 Rushford p. 67 Houston p. 29 Lanesboro p. 37 Chatfield C-7 Preston C-4 Winona p. 81 Winona p. 81 Lanesboro p. 40, B. Cover LeRoy p. 44 Preston p. 58, C-4 Winona p. 82 Rushford p. 65

Museums Houston County Historical Society JR Watkins Museum & Store Minnesota Marine Art Museum Peterson Station & Museum Polish Cultural Institute and Museum Rushford Historical Depot Museum Winona County History Center

Caledonia Winona Winona Peterson Winona Rushford Winona

p. 11 p. 82 p. 82 p. 51 p. 80 p. 61 p. 82

p. 8 p. 7 p. 16 p. 18 p. 28 p. 51 p. 53 p. 61 p. 69 p. 72 p. 41 p. 84 p. 20 p. 31 p. 43 p. 47 p. 45 p. 53 p. 62 p. 71 p. 78 p. 75

B&B Olympic Bowl Preston Caledonia Community Celebrations Caledonia Caledonia Hot Air Balloon Rally Caledonia Commonweal Theatre Company Lanesboro Hammell Equipment, Inc. Rushford Lost Creek Hiking Trail Chatfield M&M Lawn & Leisure Rushford Nordic Lanes & Lounge Rushford Niagara Cave Harmony The Old Barn Resort & Rivers’ Bend Golf Lanesboro Prairie Visions (LeRoy, Adams, Rose Creek, Taopi) Rushford Days Rushford Chatfield Shari’s Sports Saloon Spring Grove Cinema Spring Grove Spring Grove Fitness Center Spring Grove Spring Grove Family Swim Center Spring Grove Travel Lanes Bowling LeRoy

p. 35 p. 20

Cedar Valley Resort & Outfitters

LODGING Anna V’s B&B Asahi Loft

Bestemor Inn Betsy’s B&B The Bunkhouse Cedar Valley Resort Country Lodge Inn Crest Inn Crestwood Country Cabin The Crossings B&B Days Inn Fairbridge Inn & Suites Geneva’s Hideaway Guest House Grandma’s Inn Historic Scanlan House B&B Holiday Inn Express & Suites JailHouse Inn Loken’s Rushford Inn Loken’s Sawmill Inn & Suites Mrs. B’s Historic Lanesboro Inn Oakenwald Terrace B&B Old Barn Resort The Plaza Hotel & Suites Riverport Inn & Suites Stone Mill Hotel & Suites Sweet’s Hotel & Restaurant Trailhead Inn & Suites Windom Park B&B Windswept Inn

RECREATION/ENTERTAINMENT p. 57 p. 12 p. 12 p. 32 p. 65 p. 17 p. 66 p. 67 p. 21 C-4 p. 45 p. 65 p. 15 p. 71 p. 71 p. 72 p. 43

realtors Roxanne Johnson, Brenda Sheldon

rentals

Whalan

p. 22

p. 41, C-2

Business Directory

Geneva’s Canoe, Tube & Kayak Rental Little River General Store Root River Outfitters Rushford Hardware Rentals

Peterson Lanesboro Lanesboro Rushford

SPECIALTIES & SERVICES

Alpine Nursery Bluff Country Computer Works Brown Tire, Battery & Transmission Camp Winnebago Dahl’s Auto Works The Dog Pad LLC Doggy Day Care EDP Renewables Harrington Enterprises (lawn equipment) Heather Kleiboer Photography Hoffmann Tack Shop Ironside Trailer Sales/Solberg Welding Krazy Kwiltz Labrador Home & Garden M&M Lawn & Leisure Root River Hardwoods Split Endz Salon & Crafts Spring Grove Communications Spring Grove Soda Pop Spring Valley Maytag Laundry Steuart Laboratories Retail Outlet Studio-A-Photography

TOURS

Amish Tours of Harmony Barn Quilt Tour Bluffscape Amish Tours Historic Scanlan House B&B Niagara Cave R&M Amish Tours Stone Mill Hotel & Suites

Houston Harmony Rushford Village Caledonia Rushford Harmony Peterson LeRoy LeRoy Mabel Preston Harmony Mabel Rushford Rushford Preston Mabel Spring Grove Spring Grove Spring Valley Mabel Preston

Iowa/Wisconsin p. 52 p. 39 p. 36 p. 64

p. 29 p. 27 p. 69 p. 11 p. 67 p. 23 p. 51 p. 42 p. 44 p. 48 p. 59 p. 26 p. 49 p. 68 p. 66 p. 55 p. 48 p. 71 p. 73 p. 76 p. 50 C-7

Harmony p. 24 Caledonia p. 7 Lanesboro p. 35 Lanesboro p. 33 Harmony p. 21 Lanesboro p. 34 Lanesboro p. 40, B. Cover

Rushford Village Rushford Village Rushford

p. 69 p. 69 p. 67

Iowa The Exchange Cresco The Rustic Corner Turkey River Mall

Antiques

apparel

Amundson’s Clothing for Men The Good Foot Just For Her

Just For Her The Exchange The Rustic Corner Seed Savers Exchange

Cresco Charles City Elkader

Decorah Decorah Cresco

p. 93 p. 91, C-5 p. 102

p. 100 p. 100 p. 95

furniture

Decorah Decorah Decorah

Decorah Charles City

p. 101 p. 98

p. 95 p. 93 p. 91, C-5 p. 98

Grocery/specialty food Decorah Waukon

Local community services

Allamakee Economic Development Waukon BRIDGE Organization Elma Charles City Tourism Charles City Decorah Tourism Bureau Decorah Howard County Tourism Cresco Northeast Iowa Tourism Osage Chamber of Commerce Osage Riceville Community Club Riceville St. Ansgar Chamber of Commerce St. Ansgar

p. 99 p. 114

p. 115 p. 103 p. 91 p. 96 p. 95 p. 94 p. 110 p. 112 p. 113

LODGING Grumpster’s Log Cabin Getaway Hotel Winneshiek Lake Meyer Park & Campground The Loft on Water Street

McGregor Decorah Fort Atkinson Decorah

p. 108 C-6 p. 104 p. 98

Elkader Froelich Decorah

p. 102 p. 105 p. 99

Decorah

p. 101 p. 22

Museums Carter House Museum Froelich 1890 Village Museum Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum

Decorah Iowa Realty Roxanne Johnson, Brenda Sheldon

RECREATION/ENTERTAINMENT

p. 97 C-6 C-6

p. 100 p. 91, C-5

Osage Fredericksburg Decorah

p. 110 p. 105 p. 98

SPECIALTIES & SERVICES Alum-Line The Exchange Gansen Auto & RV Sales Winneshiek Wildberry Winery

Cresco Cresco Riceville Decorah

p. 93 p. 93 p. 111 p. 101

Wisconsin

p. 95

EATING/DRINKING ESTABLISHMENTS

Jane’s Consulting of Amish Furniture The Rustic Corner

Cresco Cresco Charles City Decorah

Cedar River Complex Dairy Days Seed Savers Exchange

Cresco

Don Jose Mexican Restaurant Hotel Winneshiek Rubaiyat

GIFT SHOPS

Oneota Food Coop WW Homestead Dairy

BEER/WINE/SPIRITS Cresco Liquor Store

Decorah Decorah

REALTORS

vehicle Sales & Service Brown Tire, Battery & Transmission Curt’s Place Dahl’s Auto Works Inc.

Garden/Floral Pinters Landscaping Seed Saver’s Exchange

Antiques & GIFT SHOPS

The Craft Barn

Galesville

p. 121

Local community services Trempealeau County Tourism Council

Trempealeau

p. 121

SPECIALTIES & SERVICES The Company Store Outlet

La Crosse

p. 123

Flavor

Farmers’ Markets offer benefits of locally grown foods

Local

hop local. Dine local. Buy local. The energy behind the movement of supporting what’s in our own backyards is massive and it doesn’t appear to be slowing any time soon. Americans are tired of not knowing what’s in a product or where it comes from, the high costs of transporting goods, and what these products are doing to our bodies, economy, and communities. Small farms, direct-marketing, craft and farmers’ markets have sprung up all over the country, filling the need. In southeastern Minnesota and northeastern Iowa, the markets are wide open. Tables and booths, tents and pickup trucks all filled with attractive displays now fill our towns, both big and small. Offering items such as vegetables, fruits, herbs, wild edibles, mushrooms, nuts, honey, maple syrup, grains, eggs, canned and baked, and availability to direct-market meats and dairy, these markets literally have something for everyone. Many have extended beyond food items and include crafts of all sorts, fine arts, jewelry, garden and home décor, personal care items, pet goods, fiber and yarn, knitted, crocheted, and sewn items, clothing, and more. Many communities have amazing markets that are yet to be discovered by residents and tourists. The Houston Farmers’ Market has seen some growth over the last eight years since its founding. Market manager Twaila Thorson is thrilled and thinks small town markets like Houston’s are a great thing in the community, supporting local growers and keeping the economy thriving and the money right in our own towns. Markets can also be an opportunity for unique food and art items that might otherwise get missed. In Houston, Staven Family Farm gets the chance to offer up homegrown oats, wheat, rye, and buckwheat. The family, farming for over 30 years, used to grow the conventional corn, soybean, alfalfa rotation, along with operating a dairy farm, but downsized. Looking for a something different, the Staven’s opted to grow a variety of grains, sweet corn, and vegetables. Growing all of it naturally, the Stavens take their grains to Schechs’ Mill for grinding, but some is ground on-site, during the farmers’ market, an educational and entertaining draw for market customers. While one-of-a-kind products and abundant

selection are key, largely, it’s the people who make a market great. The producer-consumer relationship sets the stage for more than just the exchange of product and cash, but rather the friendly neighborly banter between producers and customers and camaraderie between vendors. The season for markets is at the mercy of the growing season, so the markets must have reliable, committed vendors. In years like 2013, with a dismal spring and less than stellar summer, the weather can dampen a market both in offerings and spirit. Still, some markets, and their loyal customers persevere. Sometimes though, it takes more than just great vendors and their products. Many local consumers are discovering that farmers’ markets have gone beyond hay bales, tents, and bushel baskets to truly community-wide events. “We try to have something extra every week; music, educational things, presentations,” says Virginia Karlsbroten, of the Simple Living Farmers’ Market in Mabel. “We try to keep it up. Keep it as current as we can.” This community-event thinking was the basis for the new Rushford Peterson Valley Farmers’ Market, held in Rushford. The market started halfway through the year in 2013, but quickly found there was a need for fun community events and no better way to help support the local growers and artisans. This year, the market is planning something for each day, including special themed days, live music and entertainment, demonstrations, and as many activities it can find to get the community outdoors and interacting. “We have this phenomenal location in Creekside Park, along the Rush Creek Trail and the Root River, and a community who supported and encouraged us more than we could have imagined,” says market manager Kirsten Zoellner. “We want to make the market an event that people can’t wait to get to each week, an event that will get people into our downtown businesses and that encourages community involvement.” As these markets continue to grow, people are not only taking notice, but taking hold of the opportunity within their own towns. “The fact that small towns are jumping on the band wagon should say something to our society. We have become so detached on how and where things are grown and made. Farmers’ markets are now giving families an opportunity to get back to simple and wholesome.”

MINNESOTA

IOWA

Amish Farmers’ Market: June through October • Sat. 9-5 Country Lodge Motel, Harmony Chatfield Farmers’ Market: May through October • Thursdays 3-6 Located just off Hwy 52 in downtown Chatfield Houston County Farmers’ Market: May through October Saturdays 8:30-Noon • Main St & Hwy 44, Caledonia Lanesboro Farmers’ Market: May through October Saturdays 9-noon • Sylvan Park Preston Farmers’ Market: May through October • Fridays 11-2 Parking lot of the trail head on Fillmore Street in Preston Rushford Peterson Valley Farmers’ Market: May through October Wednesdays 4-7 • Creekside Park, Rushford Simple Living Farmers’ Market: April through October • Saturdays 8:3011:30 • Hwy 44/52, Mabel Spring Valley Growers’ Market: May through October • Fridays 4-7 Saturdays 9-5 • Parking lot of former lumberyard, Hwy 63 St. Charles Farmers’ Market: May through October Thursdays 4-7 • Parking lot of City Hall Stewartville Farmers’ Market: May through September Wednesdays 5-8pm • Striker’s Corner Winona Farmers’ Market: May through October Saturday 9-Noon • Front St. & Gold St. picnic shelter Wykoff Farmers’ Market: May through October Saturday 9-12 noon • Picnic shelter, Front & Gold

Cresco Farmers’ Market: May through October Tuesday & Friday 2-5:30 • Grube’s north lot Beadle Park Sunday Market: June through September 1st Sunday of month 10-1 • Beadle Park, Cresco Chester Farmers’ Market: May through October Thursdays 1-4 • Chester City Park Decorah Farmers’ Market: May through October • Saturday 8-11 & Wednesday 3-6 • Municipal Long-term Parking Lot Elma Farmers’ Market: May through October • Fridays 2:30-5:30 Parking lot of Elma Locker & Grocery Lime Springs Farmers’ Market: May through October Saturdays 9-noon • Brown Park Marquette/McGregor Farmers’ Market: May through September Fridays 3-6 • Triangle Park, McGregor Riceville Farmers’ Market: May through September Saturday 9-11:30 • 203 Main St., Hwy 9 Waukon Farmers’ Market: June through October Mondays 4-6 • Waukon City Park

Wisconsin Galesville Farmers’ Market on the Square: June through September Saturday 8-noon • On the Square Riverside Park Farmers’ Market: May through October Saturday 7-noon • Downtown La Crosse at Riverside Park

Caledonia 725-5477 or visit us at our website: www.caledoniamn.gov. Caledonia’s Claim to Fame: •We are the Houston County seat; the oldest jail in the state is located here. •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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Redwood Cafe

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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 Houston County Fair, Winter Wonderland Celebration, and Hot Air Balloon Rally are “where town and country meet.” 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, 9 holes of golf, a tour of the local stave mill or Schech’s Mill, hiking, fishing, hunting, and 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 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-

You’r

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

Good Times ResTauRanT and BaR

Largest display of wildlife prints in SE Minnesota

Restaurant has Full Menu All Homemade Food

118 Bissen Street Caledonia, MN 55921 507-725-3839 Catering on and off premises. (Banquet Room on lower level with full bar)

Mon - Fri Open at 11:00am • Sat. &Sun Open at 4:00pm

Daily Lunch Specials and Dinner Specials Email: goodtimes@acegroup.cc

Caledonia

Welcome to Caledonia We Have What You Need!

Sponsored by Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce • 507-725-5477 • caledoniacoc@gmail.com • www.caledoniamn.gov

Ellingson Motors 205 N. KiNgstoN, CaledoNia, MN 55921

Chevrolet - BuiCk toll Free 1-800-808-3098 www.ellingsonmotors.com

Country Charm Crafts 102 S. Kingston Street, Caledonia, MN

New Location

(At the stoplights) Hours: Tue-Fri 9am-5:30pm; Sat 9am-4pm

Three rooms of unique, many one-of-a-kind handcrafted items. All made by local crafters. • Aprons, dishclothes, crochet items • Baby bibs, quilts & More • Baked goods • Hats, scarves, purses, jewelry • Ornaments, painted glassware • Antiques • Ceramics • Washable pet beds, people pillows, & pet toys • Reversible table runners • Barnboard items • Oak, walnut & cedar wood items including furniture Expanded - Fabric, Fleece & Sewing Notions, Plus Scrapbooking Supplies Need a place to display your crafts or looking for something call Penny at 608-397-0267 or email countrycharm@acegroup.cc Caledonia lumber Co, inC.

Caledonia, mn “We can do that!”

Steve bauer, owner

Lumber - SteeL - Siding -doorS - WindoWS new Construction, including log Homes remodeling & ag buildings 520 S. Hwy. 44/76, Crews Caledonia, mn 55921 Available Ph: 507-725-3381 • Fax 507-725-3382 sales@caledonialumber.com

GOOd TiMES

RESTauRaNT aNd BaR 118 Bissen Street Caledonia, MN 55921 Phone: 507-725-3839

Restaurant has full Menu.

All Homemade Food

Certified Caterers on or off premises Rent free party room. dining Room Hours: Open: Mon - Sat 11am; Sun open 4:30pm Kris & dave Wedl - Owner/Operator Email: goodtimes@acegroup.cc Start a Family Tradition of Old Fashion Memories at

Betsy’s

Bed & Breakfast

Est. since 1896

6 rooms available: queen size beds, private baths; personalized breakfast. David & Betsy Pieper Farm

Kelly meyer, REALTOR®

Reservations - 507-724-FARM (3276) 10672 County 249 • Caledonia, MN 55921

The Farmhouse Eatery & Gifts

Patio Seating

Open Tues - Sat ~ 8 am - 5 pm Coffee & Coffee Cake 8:00 am - 11:00 am Lunch 11 am - 2 pm Ph. 507-725-8581 Desserts 219 North Kingston, Caledonia, MN 55921

FOuR SEaSONS Community Center

900 Kingston St, Caledonia • 507-725-4000

Full Service Grocery Store

510 Vista Dr., Caledonia, MN • 507-725-5276 open 7 days a week 7am-9pm 24-hour pay at the pump gas

Danielson insurance agency

112 east grove st. Caledonia, MN 55921 (507) 725-3344 tom danielson - agent/owner

Insurance is our specialty - service is our business

Licensed in MN, WI & IA

507.450.9395 105 South Kingston St., Caledonia, MN E: kellymeyer@kw.com W: www.kellymeyerrealestate.com

Wedding Central

We offer dance floor, dinnerware, liquor service, sound system, licensed kitchen for the caterer of your choice, linen service & stemmed glassware rental. Up to 400 guests! • Email: 4seasons@acegroup.cc • Web: www.4seasonscc.com

Caledonia True Value Hardware All your hardware needs plus a little bit of everything else

Mon-Sat 7:00 - 5:30 • Sun 9:00 - 1:00 520 Old Hwy Drive • Caledonia, MN 507-725-3986

Hunting & Fishing Licenses & Supplies

Klug Insurance Agency, LLC Auto

Home

Life

Farm

Commerical

Michael J. Klug kluginsurance.com Licensed in MN, WI & IA

Office: 507-725-9316 mike@aibme.com

111 East Main Street Caledonia, MN 55921

Meyer Garden Greenhouse • Nursery Garden Center and Plant Design Homemade Soy Candles & Soaps

Craft Brewing supplies for your Wine & Beer Making

Largest Gift Shop in the Area 120 S. Kingston St, Caledonia, MN 507-725-5384 • www.thepineconeplace.com

507.725.2028 • 507.458.3027

• Home Decor and Accessories • Gifts & Souvenirs • Willow Tree & Snowbabies Collectibles • Wood Furniture - Made in USA • Jewelry, Trendy Scarves • Wedding Registry & Rentals

516 S. State Hwy 44 & 76, Caledonia, MN

Mon - Fri 9-5:30 Sat 9 - 4

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Inquire About Cabin Rental Fishing • Hunting • Snowmobiling

Caledonia

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.

advances. However, as the glaciers receded, torrents of meltwater poured into streams and rivers, carving deep rugged valleys.

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.

From I-90, take State Highway 76 south for 24 miles, then take Houston County 1 west for 4 miles.

Wildlife

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

History

Historically, the area attracted European settlers because of rich agricultural soils, hardwoods and the many streams that made milling 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

Great Food! Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Great Drinks!

ELSIE’S

226 East Main St., Caledonia

507-725-3313

Great Times! Hungry for Breakfast, Burgers, Pizza, Seafood, or Steak? We have it all!

Caledonia

Proudly Grown In The U.S.A.

Sno Pac FoodS, Inc.

521 W. Enterprise dr., caledonia, Mn 55921 Ph: 507-725-5281 â&#x20AC;˘ www.snopac.com

Caledonia

SUMMER SESSIONS • TRIPS • ONE DAY OUTING

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

Camp Winnebago is a nonRental Options Include proﬁt organization dedicated to Sleeping Rooms & Dorms, serving the recreational needs Dining Hall, Shelters of adults and children with And Camp Sites! developmentalHouston disabilities. County See website or call All individuals with Historical Society ofﬁce for details! developmental disabilities six years of age and older are eligible to attend Camp Winnebago!

Pioneer Log Home • Daley School • Sheldon Presbyterian Church • Agriculture Building • Mayville Town Hall Other displays of early life in Houston County Used Book Sale 3RD Weekend in March 2015

Old Fashioned Christmas December 6-7, 2014

Brownsville

Eitzen

Christian Bunge Jr. Store The Church of the Holy (Restored Country Comforter, Episcopal Visit Our Store in Eitzen, MN) Research Center (Church with original & Library! Open by appointment furnishings) Open by appointment

Camp Winnebago

507-724-2351 19708 Camp Winnebago Rd Caledonia, MN 55921 www.campwinnebago.org

Start a Family Tradition of Old Fashion Memories at Betsy’s Bed & Breakfast

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 generation of the Pieper family! Available for brunches, parties and special occasions! One of the original stops on the Caledonia Barn Quilt Tour!

Betsy’s Bed &

Call today to make your reservation! 507-724-FARM (3276)

Breakfast

10672 Cty 249 Caledonia, MN 55921

www.betsysbedandbreakfast.com

120 S. Kingston St Caledonia, MN 507-725-5384 Open: Mon - Fri 9-5:30 Sat 9 - 4

• Home Decor & Accessories • Seasonal Decor • Greeting Cards • Gifts & Souvenirs • Willow Tree Collectibles • Wood Furniture - Made in USA • Kitchen & Dinner Ware • Jewelry & Scarves • Wedding Registry www.thepineconeplace.com

Caledonia

The Coffee House

Coffee and Cafe

NEW DATES!

October 17 • 18 • 2014 19

BLUFF & VALLEY HOT AIR

Serving Daily

BALLOON RALLY Caledonia, MN

Espresso, Mochas, Lattes, Smoothies and Flavor of the day!

Coming Late Spring is our drive-thru!

Drive thru will be open daily and call ahead orders welcome.

Launching Sat., October 18 7am & 3:30pm

Bakery items and

Sandwiches to go Fantastic Breakfast menu

Sun., October 19 7am

Thursday thru Sunday 6am-2pm Located at the corner of Kingston and Grove Street in downtown Caledonia Monday thru Friday 6am-4:30pm Saturday & Sunday 6am-2pm

Welcome to Kingston Street Guest House 227 North Kingston St. 507.725.3915

“Your home away from home” Call for availability

The Farmhouse Eatery & Gifts

SATURDAY NIGHT

Enjoy Wine Tasting & Silent Auction For more information contact Chris Swain 507-725-2924

BRINGING

Community

Celebrations TO OUR TOWN

See our Facebook page and become our friend!

Caledonia Community Celebrations

for dates and times for our celebrations

219 North Kingston St. 507.725.8581

“Serving homemade favorites with unique atmosphere”

Buckboard 210 South Kingston St. 507.725.8855

“Antiques, furniture & quilts”

Caledonia For Business or Pleasure

• Indoor Heated Pool • Whirlpool • Sauna • 10 Jacuzzi Suites • Enhanced Continental Breakfast • Non-Smoking & Smoking Rooms Available • Meeting/Conference Room • Pet Friendly • Open Swimming for public - Fee Charged

FAIRBRIDGE

We are conveniently located on MN State Highways 44 & 76, 7 miles from Beaver Creek State Park, 13 miles from the Mississippi River in Historic Bluff Country. Caledonia is Minnesota’s Wild Turkey Capital. With golfing, snowmobile trails and bike trails nearby we invite you to be our guest.

Please Call For More Information & Reservations

“Enter As Strangers, Leave As Friends”

INN & SUITES

INDOOR POOL

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

• 19 Motel Rooms w/2 beds • Free 120 Cable Stations • Free Hi-Speed Internet • Free Continental Breakfast • Microwaves • Fridges

Free High Speed Wireless Internet

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

FAIRB

INN &

RID

SUITES GE

508 North Kruckow Ave Caledonia MN 55921 www.fairbridgeinns.com

(507) 725-8000 • Toll Free 1-866-465-5026

Overlooking Golf Course Located on Snowmobile Trail

Friday Night Dinner Specials

Fish Fry featuring Cod, Haddock, Salmon & Shrimp

Saturday Night Dinner Specials Country Pork Ribs Ribeyes 2nd Saturday of each month

Prime Rib Dinner

Canton

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 Continued on page 14

Bingo every Tuesday night at 7:00pm

Now offering Beer & Liquor

OFF SALE! 110 N. Main St, Canton, MN

507-743-8565 Mon. Closed • Tues./Wed./Thurs.11am-9pm Fri. & Sat.11am-10pm • Sunday 12-7 (closed during winter)

111 N St Canton MN 507-743-2204 Toll Free 1-877-457-5977

3 Main Ave N Harmony MN 507-886-6922 Toll Free 1-877-886-6922

Quality Service with a Personal Touch www.firstsoutheastbank.com 24 Hour ATM • Online Banking • 24 Hour Telephone Banking

Canton/Chatfield

Continued from page 13

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 a little less than 400. For many years its economy was based on agriculture as were so many rural Minnesota cities. This has changed, however. Increasingly more of its citizens are part of young families, who like the small town flavor of Canton, the affordable housing, and 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. Canton’s newest attraction is the Canton Speedway where Go-Kart races are held during the summer months.

hatfield, the “Chosen Valley”, is just twenty 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 north branch of the Root River and Mill Creek, a series of pools ripe for trout fishing. Mill Creek Park, a 47 acre amenity-filled commons offers camping, 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 in the area, which makes its pristine hiking trails a draw. The Lost Creek Hiking Trail, west of town, is maintained by the Bluff Country Hiking Club and offers 6.35 miles of ranging terrain and ecosystems including forest, prairie, and pasture. The trail hosts several events annually including the National Trail Day Hike, the first Saturday in June and the Fall Trail Run, the last Saturday of October. If you prefer to take in nature at a bit faster pace, the newly developed 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 available for more experienced riders. For a quieter pace, Chosen Valley Golf Club offers a fun, 9-hole regulation course of 5,866 yards for a par of 35. The course rating is 66.8. Not a golfer? Take a few relaxing laps at the swimming pool or leisurely 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 Continued on page 17

Canton Lumber Yard Antiques

Mitson House MuseuM 307 North Main St., Canton, MN

Collectibles • Furniture • Glassware Pottery • Jewelry • Art • Books • Gifts Primitives • And Much Much More! 105 Main Street, Canton, MN 507.438.5333 • 507.438.9142 507.743.8338 • lakeview@acegroup.cc

Free Guided Tours

Now Open!

Every Saturday • All Summer 1-4pm

Call 507-438-5333 For Tours

Open Thursday thru Monday 11am-5pm April thru November (Call us on Tuesday and Wednesday) Also located at Generations Antique Mall in Harmony

www.lumberyardantiques.com

Sponsored by the Canton Historical Society

Get a glimpse into Canton’s history

ne O g i B 135th The

Check us out on Facebook for more info!

Canton Day Off August 15,16 & 17, 2014

Hwy 52, Canton, MN cantonspeedway.com

• Softball Tourney • Grand Parade • BBQ Cook Off • Bloody Mary Contest • Entertainment All 3 Days

• 5K Run/Walk • Fireworks • Kids Games • Tractor Ride

& Much More! www.cantondayoff.com •

Chatfield

D TY M E OAL FE & CATERIN C

219 South Main St. Chatfield, MN 507.867.1633

www.oldtymecafeandcatering.com

Come check out our nightly specials

www. jacsbarandgrill.com Daily Lunch & Dinner Specials

Friday Fish Fry

Great beer Great burgers Great service

129 S Main St. Chatfield, MN 507-867-3939

Find us on

Mon-Wed Nights 5pm-7pm All-U-Can-Eat STEAKS, RIBS & FISH Thursday • Steak & Shrimp Friday • All-U-Can-Eat Cod Check out our soup & salad bar featuring world famous steak & dumpling soup!

Hours Monday-Thursday: 11am-8pm Friday-Saturday: 11am-9pm Closed Sundays

Serving the best steaks, seafood and Prime Rib in SE MN!

Open 7 Days a Week Daily lunch specials Open BOWling

enjoy Our Outside patio

CUSTOM APPAREL 203 Main St S. Chatfield, MN 55923

1-507-867-0111 Embroidery Screen Printing Heat Transfer Logo Design Apparel

Threads Custom Apparel provides high-quality custom apparel that will make you stand-out from the crowd. Custom clothing that catches the eye with your personalized logo or design. Perfect for corporate events, family occasions, fundraisers, sport teams and so much more.

www.threadscustomapparel.com

Friday Night SpecialS ~ BBQ Country Style Ribs ~ 6 Hand Dipped Or Broiled Shrimp ~ All You Can Eat Batter Fried Or Broiled Fish

Chatfield

Chatfield Continued from page 14

the preservation of musical heritage and utilized by musicians all over the world, the library has collected and cataloged more than 30,000 pieces, many of which are no longer in print. In addition to the library, the city is home to the Chatfield Brass Band, a harmonic tradition for nearly a half century. Its more than 40 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, June through August, the city hosts the Music in the Park Concert series in the Town Square, highlighting the impressive bandshell. The square also plays host to an interactive and engaging custom playground. Chosen Bean 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. Adjacent to the center for the arts is the historic Potter Auditorium. Built in the 1930s, the landmark has been fully restored. Second Sunday Cinema, focusing on award-winning, first-run, independent or foreign films, is held the last Sunday of each month at the auditorium. Assorted productions by Wit’s End Theatre also take center stage. History enthusiasts won’t want to miss touring the War and Peace Museum 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 third 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, held the second weekend in August. It includes a market, carnival, parades, concerts, dances, fireworks, a horse show, trail rides, and the Wit’s End Theatre’s Western Days Show. Lodging within Chatfield includes Lund’s Guest House and Oakenwald Terrace B&B, a restored 1897 grand Victorian home. Restaurants include American fare, such as Jac’s Bar & Grill, Shari’s Sports Saloon, JW’s Silver Grille, and Coyote’s Saloon or fine dining at the Old Tyme Café.

F&M CoMMunity Bank

ATM Available 24/7! 229 Main Street N. Chatfield, MN 507-867-1605

Natural Unpaved Trail

“We Make Banking Easy!”

www.bluffcountryhikingclub.org

Open Daily 7:00am - 9:00pm

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

Full Service GrOcery StOre

www.sunshinefoodstores.com

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).

Hiking & Snowshoe Only

Fountain

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 “Sink Hole 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, a 1860s log cabin, and a restored one-room 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 the Viking. Another notable exhibit include 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. Fountain’s Trail Days celebration is held here annually, the second weekend in June. Abundant family farms fill the landscape surrounding Fountain and are a sustaining feature of the community. Farms like Hilltop Pastures Family Farm, a direct-market and CSA endeavor, have grown in strength and number furthering economic opportunity Continued on page 19

The Fillmore CounTy hisTory CenTer Near the Start er iv of Root Rai Bike Tr l

museum & GenealoGy library

~ 1860’s Log House ~ Country School House ~ Pietenpol Hangar & Aircraft

~ Oliver Tractor Collection ~ Antique Agricultural Equipment ~ Sinkhole Exhibit

Hrs: Tues.~Sat. 9am ~ 4pm

Open Saturd ays!

US #52 & County Road #8, Fountain, MN (507) 268-4449 Email: fchc@frontier.com • Web: http://fillmorecountyhistory.wordpress.com/ NO ADMISSION CHARGE TO MUSEUM • GENEALOGY LIBRARY CHARGE

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

AUTHENTIC MEXICAN RESTAURANT Breakfast (American) Saturday & Sunday Lunch • Dinner Full Service Bar

We use locally grown produce when available and exclusively grass-fed ground beef.

Dine In Thru - P- Drive ickup

FOUNTAIN TOWN CELEBRATIONS

8 52

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

Mon - Thur 4:00 - 8:30pm 52 80 Fri 11:00am-8:30pm Sat & Sun 6:30am - 8:30pm Intersection of Hwy 52 S & Hwy 80 • Fountain, MN 507-268-1020 • www.losgables.com

June 7-8 Oct. 4 Dec. 13 Dec. 13 For more information, call or write:

Fountain Town Celebration Fountain Lutheran Church Lutefisk & Meatball Dinner Fountain United Methodist Women’s Bake & Craft Sale & Luncheon, Fountain Community Center Santa comes to Fountain & Turkey Drawings Fountain Community Center City of Fountain, P.O. Box 115 • Fountain, MN 55935 507-268-4923 • http://bluffcountry.com/fountain.htm

Fountain Continued from page 18

for the area. Such farms have been a key feature of restaurants like Los Gables, a colorful, authentic Mexican cuisine experience, which uses locally grown produce when available and exclusively grass-fed ground beef. The restaurant also provides a variety of vegetarian choices if requested, and is a good selection for gluten-free menu options. Other dining options include the Village Square, with its American cuisine, pizza, and renowned homemade pie in a cozy, café atmosphere and The Bent Wrench Bar & Grill, serving American cuisine and entertainment. Willie’s Grocery and Locker, a long-time Fountain landmark and the local neighborhood grocery “with a personal touch”, is well-known throughout the region for its high-quality meats and the perfect place to stock up before heading off on the trail.

ore l p x E

, BluffHistoric Country

SAVE WITH SAFETY and BANK WITH THE LEADERS

Our communities serve as the western starting point for the Root River Canoe Route in Chatfield, and the Root River State Trail in Fountain!

Providing complete financial services to Historic Bluff Country!

Serving you since 1901 www.fsbfountain.com

“Your Community Banks for Generations!”

24 Hour FastBank ATM Cash Machines at each Bank!

visitbluffcountry.com

Serving you since 1856 www.rrsbchatfield.com

Open Daily 10am-5pm

Harmony

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. Continued on page 20

ANTIQUE MALL Voted Best Antique Shopping Over 100 Dealers offering a selection of

90,000 items Handicap Accessible

50 Industrial Blvd NE • Harmony, MN

507.886.6660

Harmony

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

ASAHI LOFT 255 5TH St. SE • Harmony, MN 507-226-3735 • www.asahiloft.com

Private Bed & Breakfast Accommodation Inn Keepers: Cindy & Doug Ofstedal

Continued from page 19

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 wellknown tourist attraction. Niagara Cave has been in continous development and operation for seventy-five years. 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. Niagara Cave has a gift shop, a 10-acre picnic ground, and a new 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 Continued on page 22

Shop • Dine • Explore • Enjoy

Harmony Minnesota Home of the Niagara Cave

2014 COMMUNITY EVENTS

• April 25 - 27 – Bluff Country Studio Art Tour • June-October, Saturdays – Amish Farmers’ Markets • July 4-6 – Harmony Fourth of July Celebration • July 5 – Harmony Hustle • July 11 – Relay For Life of Fillmore County • September 6 – Root River Trail Towns “Taste of the Trail” • October 3-4 – Fall Foliage • December 6 – Santa Day Watch out for a new event, Fossil Fest 2014! Keep up on our website for more information on events!

www.ExploreHarmony.com

Harmony

Rate Of thd One ten C e tOp av the U es in sa

Come & See the Natural Beauty of Niagara Cave.

CaLL 1-800-837-6606 oR 507-886-6606 Harmony, MN • www.niagaracave.com

Enjoy the Refreshing 48 Degrees Year Round. Picnic areas, Gift Shop & Gemstone Mining available. Walking Shoes are Recommended.

60 Ft. WaterFall Wedding Chapel

StalaCtiteS FoSSilS

Voted Bluff Country’s Best Family destination 2009-2013

Gemstone mininG mini Golf

open Daily - May thru September • open Weekends - april and october Located 2 miles south of Harmony, MN on Hwy 139 then 2 miles west on County Road 30. Just 1 mile north of the Minnesota/Iowa border on Hwy 139, then west.

Harmony Continued from page 20

Your Local Real Estate Professionals Brenda & Roxanne are top professionals. Put their experience to work for you as Accredited Buyer Representatives. They know the market because they live in the area. Experience you can count on!

CALL: Brenda Sheldon, ABR, GRI

Office: 507-346-2060 Cell: 507-951-2071 Email: brenda@brendasheldon.com Website: www.BrendaSheldon.com

CALL: Roxanne Johnson, ABR, CRS, GRI

Office: 888-839-2142 Cell: 507-458-6110 Email: RoxanneJohnson@remax.net Website: www.SEMNrealestate.com Select Properties

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 outstanding 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 wooded areas and large panoramic views of rolling hills, spring-fed 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. A Hobo Camp consisting of life-sized, wood-carved figures is located at the trailhead park. Interpretive signage has been provided by the Harmony Area Historical Society. 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 Harmonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s municipal campground or one of several private campgrounds in the area. Harmony offers the shopper many unique and interesting Continued on page 23

Harmony

Continued from page 22

ore l p x E

, BluffHistoric Country visitbluffcountry.com

Tails

all

lead

To ing

We’re looking forward to having your dog become part of the Dog Pad family!

Gro

The

DoG PaD

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Dayca boardin

Overnight Or extended Stay dOg BOarding Half Day or Full Day Doggie Day Care

General GroominG available

{bathing, nail trims, brush-outs} THe DoG PaD,

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appointments required, Call ahead For Details • 507-886-4866 Hwy 52 n, Harmony, mn {located in the red barn at Harmony Greenhouse}

thedogpad@harmonytel.net • thedogpadfamily.com

Fast Friendly Service

Village Square Restaurant

The

• Specialty Salads • Homemade Soups • Delicious Sandwiches • Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream • Wraps

Home of Julie’s

the key to our success is ‘Homemade’

Homemade Pie

Serving locally grown beef

FamouS

Look for

Mexican Night

Pasta Night

Hours: Open at 8am www.villagesquareofharmony.com

n ritio nut

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 new dog boarding business. One of Harmony’s unique attractions is Slim’s Woodshed, the largest woodcarving museum in the nation. Offering a variety of services for anyone who may be interested in woodcarving, this establishment is filled with woodcarving relics from around the world. Another claim-to-fame for Harmony is that it is home to Fillmore County’s only movie theater, which shows current movies and serves popcorn with real butter.

SeRVing

• Breakfast • • Lunch • Dinner •

Cutest servers in the county!

Noon & Evening Specials Prime Rib served 1St Saturday of every month! Friday & Saturday Fish Fry

gReaT Pizza! 507-886-4406 Main Street, Harmony, MN

Harmony

Family Dining

RMON Y A H H OUS E RESTAURANT

Open Daily

5 Miles SW of Harmony, MN Across from Niagara Cave 29661 County 30, Harmony, MN 55939

Main Ave. N. Harmony, MN ~ 507-886-4612

Serving Breakfast & Lunch

Quality Handcrafted Furniture Featuring quarter sawn white oak and many other wood species

Homemade Rolls, Pies & Pastries

FREE PIE Wednesdays

DAILY SPECIALS Open Sun. thru Sat. 5:00am-1:30pm

Check us out at www.eatatharmonyhouse.com

Amish Tours of Harmony Located in the Sugar Plum House at the Village Green, & 45 Main Ave., in Harmony

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

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

Specializing in Bedroom Furniture Dining & Bedroom Furniture • Cedar Chests Hutches • Coffee & End Tables • Chairs, Rockers & Gliders • Benches • Shelves • Plant Stands Hardwood Floors • Trim • Hardwood Doors • Quilts Baskets • Gift Items & Much More * Custom & Special Orders Available *

15 Years in Business

Essence of Harmony Located in downtown Harmony at 45 Main Avenue North

507-886-5392

“for you or someone special” Unique gifts for mind, body and spirit Fair Trade Antiques

Harmony Harmony-Preston Valley Trail

Come and enjoy Minnesota hospitality, southeastern style. The paved Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail is a beautiful 18 mile long multiple use trail that connects the communities of Harmony and Preston with the existing Root River State Trail. Main summer uses are hiking, biking and in-line skating. The trail is groomed for cross country skiing in the winter. The northern two-thirds of the Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail follows or crosses Watson Creek, the South Branch of the Root River, and Camp Creek, passing through a variety of wooded areas and farmland on an abandoned railroad grade. This section is wheelchair accessible. Three fishing platforms provide access to trout fishing in Camp Creek just outside of Preston. Unlike the northern segment of this trail, the southern segment was not constructed upon an abandoned railroad grade. The southern segment of the trail between County 16 and Harmony climbs out of the river valley, and angles cross country into Harmony. The trail rises up and down over a number of little hills and is punctuated with a rather strenuous incline that may not be suitable for all users. Although Harmony and Preston were both settled in the 1850s, the cities are quite different in appearance. Harmony was developed upon the agricultural uplands above the Root River valley while Preston is located within the valley. Both communities speak to a very different time in Minnesota’s history with several preserved buildings and interpretive opportunities.

Items from local Amish & Crafters Expanded Discount Basement Toys, Kitchen Wares, School & Office Supplies, Cards & Gift Wrap & Much, Much More

• Antiques • Watkins Products • Great Grandma Luanne’s Art • Dept. 56 Collectibles • Harmony t-shirts & sweatshirts

Voted Best Craft Store y! in Bluff Countr

Open all year! Handicapped Accessible

oldwaysnewideas@yahoo.com

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

School Quilt Shop Largest selection of Amish-made Quilts & Quilted Items in Minnesota! 507-886-2409 • Amish Backroads Tour • Amish Gifts & Furniture • Gourmet Foods • Jewelry • Willow Tree

507-886-2666

Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor & Candy Store • 20 Flavors of Ice Cream • Bulk Candy • Smoothies, Shakes & Malts

Visit our on-line store

www.village-depot.com

OLD WAYS NEW IDEAS

65 Main Ave. North, Harmony, MN 507-886-4848

AL us o SO VISI n Ma T in S tree t

n o n C ecti on h s i m A Amish Backroads Tour Clothing • Tableware • Table Linens • Furniture • Curios • Scarves • Bags • Cabin Decor • Baby Gifts • Children’s Books • Christmas Year-Round

103 Main Ave N., Harmony

507-886-2979

Harmony

Unique Ih Collectibles Toys, Clothing & More

We are an authorized dealer for Wilson, Keifer, Road King, Alum Line, Pacesetter, and H & H trailers. We offer parts and service along with DOT inspections.

Also have Boss and Snowdogg Snowplows

Hammell equipment 330 North Main, harmony, MN 507-886-2255

Harmony

Country Lodge Inn of Harmony

Your “Home Away From Home”

25 spacious, tastefully decorated rooms. Handicapped accessible. Microwave & refrigerator in every room. Luxurious yet cozy atmosphere. Very quiet & clean with modern amenities. Free Wi-Fi. Amish Farmers’ Market on Saturdays and Holidays (Seasonal). Nice large deck to relax on and watch Amish buggies go by. Come relax and be yourselves at the Country Lodge Inn! Located at 525 Main Avenue North, Harmony, MN Call 507-886-2515 for a reservation.

email:ctrylodg@harmonytel.net • www.countrylodgeinnharmonymn.com

Durable Poly Furniture 570 Main Ave N • Harmony, MN 55939

www.MyAmishMall.com

507-886-2777

Hi, I’m Reuben Hershberger My brother Jake and I were born and raised in an Amish family. We learned how to build Amish furniture at a young age on the farm. Here at R&J Amish Furniture we`ve been building and selling Amish Furniture since 1992. Currently we are retailing Amish furniture for our Amish family and friends.

Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm; Suns 11:00am-4:00pm Open Seven Days a Week Will Deliver Anywhere

Houston

A HISTORY OF SERVICE Locally Owned

Family Operated

• Gas • Convenience Shopping • Take & Bake Pizza • Fresh Subs • Grab & Go Items • Coffee & Beverages

103 E. Cedar, Houston, MN • 507.896.3221 Hours: Mon-Thurs 6am-9pm • Fri-Sat 6am-10pm • Sun 7am-9pm

mid two deep valleys, at the foot of the “Mountains of Minnesota,” lies Houston, the eastern trailhead of the Root River Trail. Nestled in a convergence of the Root River and South Fork Root River, the outdoors and wildlife is an immediate draw for visitors. Whether bicycling, in-line skating, or cross-country skiing on the trail or canoeing, tubing, or swimming in the river, the area is teeming with adventure. The Oak Ridge/Wet Bark Recreation Area, southwest of the town, is a scenic treat encompassing 11 miles of hiking and horseback riding trails and six miles of designated mountain biking trails, that transforms to accommodate cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling in the winter. The terrain varies from rolling and grassy to steep and rocky, but easily accommodates all age and experience levels. Nearby, horseback riding and outdoor enthusiasts will also appreciate Outback Ranch, an escape and chance at adventure spread over 1,600 acres of private land abutting the recreation area. Featuring over 25 miles of varied trails, the ranch is ideal for seasonal hiking, riding, hunting, and snowmobiling. Ten minutes east of town, golf fanatics can revel in a full 18-hole course, surrounded by the meandering bluffs, at Valley High Golf Club. Featuring 6,127 yards of golf from the longest tees, for a par of 71, the course rating is 69.2. Just two miles south of town, history aficionados can take in the 150-year old stone church, the oldest in Houston County. Built in the 1855 by natural stone quarried off nearby hills, the Norwegian heritage of its congregants can be seen throughout. Further down Highway 76, another seven miles, visitors can marvel at Schech’s Continued on page 29

Home of the Houston Nature Center and Trailhead for the Root River Trail ANNUAL EVENTS International Festival of Owls - First weekend in March www.festivalofowls.com Root River Triathlon - Third Saturday in May www.houstonmnlions.org Houston Hoedown Days - Last full weekend in July www.houstonhoedown.com Taste of the Trail - September www.rootrivertrail.org Houston Hollidazzle Second weekend in December

City of Houston

www.houston.govoffice.com • 507.896.4033

Houston Continued from page 28

Mill, a working three-story mill of native stone, built in 1876. The mill is the only original water-powered mill in Minnesota and still boasts original equipment. As you make your way back to Houston, Alpine Nursery is a must-see stop. In business and family-owned for over sixty years, the nursery offers a vast assortment of plant materials, garden-inspired gifts, and is a designated distributor of imported Scandia Kicksleds. The aesthetic of the nursery is cleverly designed to mimic the building styles of native Scandinavia. Just off the beaten path, B&B Honey Farm, a national apiary supplier for over 35 years, offers honey, beeswax, beekeeping supplies, and gifts of all sorts. Back in town, at Trailhead Park, a wetland and levee planted in native grasses and flowers beckons visitors to explore the simplest beauty of nature. The park also offers a picnic shelter, tables, primitive camp sites, as well as public restrooms and showers. In 2013 a massive community effort saw the development and construction of a creative and inspiring natural playground at the site. The park is also home to the renowned Houston Nature Center, the educational showcase of Alice the Great Horned Owl and the International Festival of the Owls, held the first full weekend of each March. The impressive three-day festival includes live world owl presentations, birding trips, contests, activities, and classes. North of town, visitors can tour two impressive big game farms by appointment; Van Gundy Elk Farm and Money Creek Buffalo Ranch. At Van Gundy’s, visitors can procure elk meat and the Antler Shed Gift Shop features wildlife metal art, antler velvet capsules, antlers for mounting, cribbage boards, handled knives, and jewelry.

Our gift shop contains a unique selection of Scandinavian and garden inspired gifts. The garden center specializes in herbs and perennials. Check out our fairy gardens!

At Money Creek Buffalo Ranch, home to national star Cody the Buffalo, visitors can purchase bison meat and jerky, Scottish Highlander beef, wild boar meat, and one-of-a-kind collectibles. Houston boasts several other distinctive shops including Seven Bridges Pottery, beautiful wheel thrown and hand-created functional stoneware and porcelain pottery and a part of the Bluff Country Studio Art Tour, the last weekend in April. Houston is the centerpiece for several festivals throughout the year. The Root River Triathlon, a 6.5 mile canoe/kayak, 8 mile bicycle, and 3 mile run competition is held the third Saturday in May. Music lovers will delight in two Southeast Minnesota Bluegrass Association Festivals, held at scenic Cushon’s Peak, the third weekends of May and August. The fourth weekend in July, Hoedown Days, transforms the town into a celebration filled with trail rides, tractor pulls, the Minnesota State Horsepull, nightly dances, flea markets, pie and ice cream socials, games and a grand parade. A variety of dining is found throughout Houston including the charming Barista’s Coffeehouse, Through the Grapevine’s authentic German cuisine, Crossroad’s Café, Sub-Zero Pizza & Ice Cream, and JT’s Corner Bar & Grill, and Root River Market. Staying in Houston? Lodging is in vast supply in destinations ranging from spirited and western at the Outback Ranch, The Bunkhouse at Silver Creek Ranch, and Cody’s Cabin, to scenic and secluded at Money Creek Haven resort and camping, featuring a relaxing spring-fed swimming pool, or Cushon’s Peak Campground. Those wanting more traditional accommodations can find comfort at one of two B&Bs in town or at Loken’s Sawmill Inn & Suites, 2010 Minnesota Lodging Association Property of the Year.

Now serving your favorite

beers and wines.

Cross Roads Cafe 101 W. Cedar, Houston, MN • 507.896.2076 OPEN FOR BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER

Alpine nurSery

Family owned for 64 years. 7155 State Hwy. 76, Houston, Mn 55943 507-896-3715 • www.alpinenursery.com

Houston

Historic Bluff Country

Time passes slowly along the Historic Bluff Country Scenic Byway, with change coming nearly imperceptibly to both the natural landscape and the lifestyle of its residents. Impressive limestone bluffs rise over enduring hardwood forests, while the water of the region etches out magnificent caverns beneath the earth. Visitors can lose themselves in timeless sights and activities amidst natural wonders and rural communities. Most of the Historic Bluff Country Scenic Byway passes through the Richard J. Doerer Memorial Hardwood Forest, a two million acre natural area full of walnut, oak, elm, birch, black cherry and pine trees. Unlike certain other areas, the forest is designed for human use, whether camping, hiking, backpacking, or wildlife viewing. Two trails that cross the forest encourage these activities: the Root River State Trail and the Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail. In addition to pavement for the ease of wheeled and foot traffic, sections of the trails are groomed for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing in the winter. Along with the aboveground activities, several subterranean tours await along the Byway. Nearby Niagara Cave in Harmony features several fascinating formations, such as the Wishing Well, a vaulted underground wedding chapel, and a 60-foot underground waterfall. Closer to the Byway, Mystery Cave offers tours through its natural formations, and the caves offer a cool respite from a hot day with a constant temperature of 48 degrees. Visitors can also reserve more advanced spelunk-

Explore the ““Mountains”” of MN

501 S Jefferson St. Houston, MN 507.896.2080

The Bunkhouse

For Reservations Call: 507-896-2080 or email jaschultz@acegroup.cc

www.houstonbunkhouse.com Convenience & Service all through the Root River Valley

Houston bp Food Shop • • • • • • •

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

ing tours through more remote and challenging sections of the cave. Above Mystery Caves is the Forestville Historic Village. Operated by the Minnesota Historic Society, Forestville portrays several restored period structures from the nineteenth century. Forestville was prosperous until the railroad passed it up, relegating Forestville to an older way of life. Eventually, the son of one of the founders owned the entire village. Another way to experience an older way of life is to visit local Old Order Amish communities that dot the Byway, featuring acres of beautiful farmland, and handicrafts such as furniture, toys and quilts. With distinct culture, fascinating geology, and hardwood beauty, the Historic Bluff Country Scenic Byway lets visitors experience timeless Minnesota.

Lanesboro

www.lanesboro.com 800-944-2670

Lanesboro Area Calendar of Events

“Over the Back Fence” at the St. Mane Theatre

Your Weekday Escape!

Monthly on 2nd Fri Feb – Nov 7:30 pm A community variety radio show featuring musical guests, comedy, drama, skits, and audience participation.

Get Away Any Day! Shopping, Dining, Lodging

Ibsen Festival

Rhubarb Festival

Bluff Country Studio Art Tour

Art in the Park

April 11 – 13 Celebrate Scandinavian theatre, art, music and dance. Commonweal Theatre Company’s production of Ibsen’s masterpiece “A Doll’s House” April 25 – 27 Travel scenic back roads to the studios of the area’s finest artists.

Root River Earth Day

June 7 Celebrate Rhubarb, Minnesota’s sweet tart favorite. Free tasting of rhubarb delights, games, music & entertainment. 5K and 1-mile Rhubarb Run.

June 15 Art festival in beautiful Sylvan Park, 90 exhibitors, eclectic food, live music and entertainment.

April 26 SE Minnesota: a fantastic place for humans and wildlife alike to live. Kids’ crafts, scavenger hunt, exhibitor booths, and making rain barrels.

Buffalo Bill Days

Lanesboro Farmer’s Market at Sylvan Park

Holiday Dinner Dance

May - Oct Sat 9am – noon Locally grown products, produce, plants, baked goods, preserves, meats.

Stand-Still Parade

May 17 Stroll along and view the parade exhibits in Whalan. “The Parade doesn’t move, the spectators do!”

Bluff Country Gathering

Aug 1 – 3 City-wide Festival, marketplace, food booths, entertainment, dances, volleyball & softball tournaments, and grand parade. Dec 6 Live entertainment, social hour, dancing and fine cuisine.

Lanesboro Christmas Inn Tour

Dec 7 Showcasing Bed & Breakfasts and Inns charmingly decorated for the Christmas season.

Whalan Candlelight Ski

Feb 7, 2015 May 16 - 17 Candlelight Ski or hike on the Root River Concert May 16, Barn Dance May 17, State Trail. Local foods and bonfire at both Lanesboro Community Center. Live music ends of the trail. and calling, including teaching.

Memorial Day Program

May 26 10 am Honoring our fallen comrades with a parade, a program of patriotic music and speakers, & a gun salute with taps.

Watch the website calendar at www.lanesboro.com for a full list of events.

Lanesboro

he arts and outdoors abound in Lanesboro, one of Midwest Living’s “5 Small Towns You’ll Love”. Recently also named one of America’s Top Twelve Small-Town Art Places, by ArtPlace, the hamlet is bursting with artistic venues, galleries, and distinctive shops. Stroll down the north end of Parkway Avenue, the main thoroughfare, and you’ll find two theatrical venues. The St. Mane Theatre hosts a number of musicians, comedians, movies, and is home to the Lanesboro Community Theater. Popular productions, “Lanesboro Live” and “Over the Back Fence”, a community variety radio show, frequently draw full houses. Next door, the Commonweal Theatre Company, a leading rural professional company, has created impressive performances for over 25 years. In a state-of-the-art, 200-seat theatre, the company performs six productions a year, including one apprentice project. The second weekend in April, the company produces plays by Norwegian playwright, Hendrik Ibsen, during the annual Ibsen Festival. Continue along the avenue, a landmark on the National Register of Historic Places, and a bevy of shops and galleries are before you. Crown Trout Jewelers, Barnyard Galley, Bittersweet Boutique and Antiques, Coffee Street Peddler, Get Fresh Vintage, Essence of Lanesboro, Slant Avenue Mercantile, Windy Mesa, Lanesboro Local Marketplace, and the Stone Mill Art and Craft gallery are just a few of the enticing stops. At Scenic Valley Winery, maker of private label country wines, visitors can sample an assortment of wines crafted with distinctive blends of local fruits and vegetables. Perhaps something outdoors is more to your liking. Situated on the 60-mile Root River State Trail and along the cool waters of the Root River, Lanesboro boasts three recreational suppliers; Little River Gen-

eral Store Outfitters, River Rats Outfitters, and Root River Outfitters. Whether biking down the trail, canoeing, kayaking, tubing, or fishing on the river, these outfitters can get you ready for an adventure. Golf enthusiasts can take in the views atop the bluff at the Lanesboro Golf Club. Opened in 1929, the 18-hole course comprises over 5,458 yards with a par of 35 and a course rating is 65.8. Continue the thrill of the outdoors with a stop at Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center, an educational campus aimed at connecting visitors to the natural world. Annually, programs and outdoor opportunities are afforded to over 16,000 participants through classes, camps, Root River Skills School, and a Naturalist fellowship program. The robust campus includes a year-round residential center and dining hall, Schroeder building, and the Discovery Center auditorium and classrooms. Outside, visitors will find native plantings, looming forest, panoramic views, hiking trails, geocaching, and a high ropes course all aimed at creating sustainability, conservation, and appreciation. Just a mile southwest of town, the Department of Natural Resources Fish Hatchery is Minnesota’s largest cold water production facility. Fed by two artesian springs, the waters produce more trout each year than any other state hatchery with nearly all trout raised there stocked in local streams. Guided and self-guided tours of the hatchery are available. Perhaps you’re captivated by the historical culture of the area. Several old-order Amish tours offer a look at the simple lifestyle and long-held traditions of the Amish society. One self-guided CD tour, as well as Bluffscape Amish Tours and Amish Tours by R&M, will offer a look at the farms and homes of the community. Downtown, the Lanesboro Historical Museum explores the lives of the Norwegian, German, and Continued on page 34

Lanesboro

Imagine... 708 Parkway Avenue South , Lanesboro, MN 55949

1-800-944-2158 or Local - 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.

This shouldn’t be your imagination ... …………It should be your reality! 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

Gift CertifiCates and PaCkaGes available All Guest Rooms And Suites Include: • 2-Person Whirlpools and or Fireplaces • TV w/ Cable • AM/FM/CD Radio • Hairdryer • Private Bath • Wireless internet access available • 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!

Open Year Round!

ComPlimentary Gourmet multi-Course breakfast

Lanesboro Continued from page 32

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

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

R & M Amish Tours S.E. Minnesota’s Oldest & Lanesboro’s Original Amish Tours

Departure from The Little River General Store 105 Coffee St. E., downtown Lanesboro

Scenic Tours through Amish Country

Amish-made Furniture

Amish Woodworking Shop

Tour an Amish home when available

Beautifully handcrafted gifts

Amish Bakery

Group Buses Welcome - Step on Guide Daily Tours Mon - Sat • Year Round • 10am / 1pm / 4pm Reservations Recommended

507-467-2128 www.rmamish.com

Irish settlers. Adjacent to the trail, the museum is housed in a replica of the original depot and is teeming with fascinating local items and serves as a DNR Trail Center, Chamber and Visitor Center. Lodging Lanesboro is in no short supply. As the Bed and Breakfast Capital of Minnesota, the town boasts 26 establishments, ranging from Victorian-era B&Bs to historic hotels, a converted stone feed mill to cozy cottages and guesthouses. Coupled with fine lodging, Lanesboro provides numerous choices to wet one’s whistle or take in a scrumptious meal; Desserts and confections at Another Time Ice Cream Parlor & Chocolates or delightful culinary surprises at The Pastry Shop or Pedal Pushers Café, casual dining and American cuisine at the renovated Gil B’s Pizza & Sandwich Shoppe, Chat & Chew, Smokey River BBQ, or Spud Boy Lunch, a clever diner in a renovated wooden railroad car, still on its two wheels, fine dining at the Old Village Hall Pub & Restaurant or Riverside on the Root & Dirty Martini Lounge, or a fine drink at the Parkway Pub or Root River Saloon. At the center of town, Sylvan Park reminds visitors why this site was chosen for the town. Just less than 12 acres, the charming park is a stone’s throw from the Root River and features two spring-fed ponds, majestic trees, and is within sight of the 1868 Power Dam and waterfall. Countless activities are held here annually, most notably Art in the Park, southeast Minnesota’s longest running art festival, held Father’s Day, and Buffalo Bill Days, the first weekend in August. Other events include Root River Earth Day Celebration, the Bluff Country Gathering, the third weekend in May, Rhubarb Festival, the first Saturday in June, Taste of the Trail in September, Holiday Dinner Dance and Christmas Inn Tour, the first weekend in December.

Lanesboro

Tour the Old Order Amish at Their Farms 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

Open at 10am, 7 days a week

•

507-467-2292

•

bittersweetboutique@live.com

Lanesboro Open April through November Voted “The Best Outdoor Dining in SE Minnesota”

Dirty

Martini 109 S. Parkway, Lanesboro, MN 55949 rro@acegroup.cc • 507-467-3663

Lounge

FULL LUNCH AND DINNER MENU CHOICES

Steaks • Seafood • Fish • Salads • Sandwiches • Pizzas • Desserts

Daily Bar SpecialS anD live entertainment may through laBor Day FULL SERVICE FOOD MENU SERVING LUNCH & DINNER 11am-9pm

FULL SERVICE ALCOHOL AND FOOD CATERING AVAILABLE

NEW in 2014!

Two Rivers Brewing

facebook.com/riversideontheroot

Enjoy our hand-crafted pale ale or stout beer brewed locally at the Riverside on the Root!

Gift Certificates Available on our website Printable Menus Available on our website riversideontheroot.com

Root River

Find us on Facebook

facebook.com/rootriveroutfitters

Outfitters

Family owned & operated for over 20 years!

We Rent Canoes Tubes Kayaks Bikes TWO-FOR-TUESDAYS

Day or Overnight Trips Available! Bait & Tackle!

CALL FOR RESERVATIONS!

Two tubes for the price of one, every Tuesday!

ThURSDAYS are Root River cleanup days. Discounts are available for your help. www.rootriveroutfitters.com • rro@acegroup.cc • 507-467-3400 • 101 Parkway Ave. S., Lanesboro, MN 55949

Lanesboro

ay 250 Highw

Campground

ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER

Outdoor Fun For Everyone! Treetops High Ropes Course Team Building

Recreational & Educational Classes Overnight Accommodations

www.eagle-bluff.org

located in the blufflands of Lanesboro, Minnesota

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

www.highway250campground.com Ideally d! locate

98 Sites

On the R River Traoot il!

with Water & Electric Hookup

horseshoes • volleyball • fishing • tubing • canoes • fire rings • picnic tables

Located on the northeast edge of Lanesboro, we’re perfectly nestled between the Root River and the Root River Trail System. Enjoy biking up to 30 miles each direction. Includes 30-50 amp service, a dump station and a centrally-located bath house. Ideal location to take in all the activities of Historic Lanesboro & the Bluff Country Region.

For reservations call 507-467-3395 507-458-3125 • Email: camp250@acegroup.cc 25276 Hwy 250 N, Lanesboro, MN

emember a quieter time, when life was less stress-filled? A cornerstone of Lanesboro, this lovely 1872 Limestone building is on the National Register of Historic Places. The well-loved Inn stands by the edge of the Root River and is just steps from the Root River Trail. A long history of wonderful accommodations, Mrs. B’s has once again reinvented herself, and has recently undergone a transformation. New owners Terry & Ginger brought their B&B expertise from Hawaii, adding special touches and renovations throughout the lovely Victorian. Rooms rates $139 - $179.

Several write-ups in Minnesota Monthly (Minnesota Favorites), Life Magazine and Country Home Magazine. ~Comfortable living room/lobby with lovely Victorian furnishings, leather couches, guest area, games and reading material. Marble topped bar with coffee/tea service. Wonderful chocolate chip cookies at the guest bar. ~ Your choice of 9 rooms, each with private baths. Queen four-post beds, dressed in lovely linens, some with whirlpool baths and gas or electric fireplaces. Eclectic décor in keeping with a country Victorian look. ~Smoke free, central air, decks with seating, terraced gardens with seating on river’s edge.

101 Parkway Ave. N., Lanesboro, MN 55949 507-467-2154 • www.mrsbsinn.com • mrsbsinn@gmail.com

Lanesboro

The Root River

FRUIT WINES Fermented from area grown fruits

www.scenicvalleywinery.com Free tasting available!

Unique Gift Items & Collectibles

Mon-Fri 10am-4:30pm • Sat 10am-5pm • Sun 12noon-5pm April Through October • Call for off season hours Call or write for additional information P.O. Box 395, Coffee St., Lanesboro, MN 55949

507-467-2958 or 1-888-965-0250

UPS Shipping available

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 Continued on page 59

this coupon to rec eive a Use

Homemade Pizza • Burgers & Appetizers • Fresh Subs & Wraps • Famous Broasted Chicken • Soft Serve Ice Cream

Carryouts available Our pizza dough is made from scratch daily & our hamburger patties are pattied fresh every day, never frozen! 507-467-2200 Open 7 Days A Week Hours: 11am-9pm 111 Parkway Ave N, Lanesboro, MN

VBC

*Limit 1 per household. Not good with some other offers. Other limitations may apply.

www.gilbslanesboro.com

Lanesboro DOWNTOWN LANESBORO

Little Little River River General General Store Store A Full Service Outfitter ~ Rent • Retail • Repair Make Your Reservation Today!

1-800-994-2943 507-467-2943

CANOE, KAyAK, TUBE & BiCyCLE RENTALS

SPORTS STORE • Padded Bike Shorts • Bike Jerseys • Helmets • T-Shirts & Sweatshirts • Bike Bags • Speedometers • Life Jackets • Gadgets Galore • Canoe & Kayak Paddles AND SO MUCH MORE!

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

Lanesboro

Bike rides on the Root River State Trail

Art GALLERIES 103 Parkway Ave N.

90+ Artists • Exhibits

St. Mane THEATRE 206 Parkway Ave N.

Music • Film • Theater 507.467.2446 | lanesboroarts.org

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. Continued on page 42

“Casual fine dining in the theatre distriCt!” WEEKLY MENU FEATURING LOCAL SEASONAL INGREDIENTS BEER AND WINE AVAILABLE OPEN EVENINGS APRIL-DECEMBER RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED

CHEF DAVID HARRISON www.intermissionoflanesboro.com

Located next to the Commonweal Theatre 210 Parkway Ave N Lanesboro, MN 55949

507-467-3381

Lanesboro/Whalan

Welcome to Whalan Hidden away in a beautiful Valley just 5 miles from Lanesboro is the charming Village of Whalan. Enjoy world famous pies, a beautiful full service resort, mini-golf right off the trail, rest areas with a gazebo, basketball court and playground for all to enjoy.

The Aroma Pie Shop Open Thurs-Monday 10am-5pm May-Oct 507-467-2623

WHALAN STAND STILL PARADE

On the bike trail in Whalan

cedar Valley resort & Outfitters

Saturday, May 17, 2014

Open All Year-Round!

3, 4, 6 & 8 Bedroom deluxe loGSIded caBInS

Whalan Museum

all built between 2001-2009

Families, Reunions, Retreats, and Girlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Weekends!

Call us Today! Located on the Root River Trail 4 1/2 minutes East of Lanesboro on Hwy 16

www.cedarvalleyresort.com

507-467-9000

507.272.2149 Located on the Root River Bike Trail, Whalan Open Weekends Memorial Day - Labor Day Call for after-hours or group reservations

Ask about Jeep Tours & Horse Drawn Rides!

224 2nd Avenue, Whalan 507.467.2344 Open Sat. & Sun., May 17-October, 11am-4pm or by appointment 507.867.3746

Lanesboro/Whalan

halan, a charming 19th Century village nestled in a valley surrounded by limestone bluffs, is perhaps best known as the home of the world famous pie shop. Step back in time at Ernie’s 1917 filling station (non-operational). With a population of 64, Whalan is the smallest town along the trail, but still offers resort cabins and house rental lodging, mini golf, tube and kayak rentals. Situated at the mid-way point between Fountain and Rushford on the Root River Trail, Whalan affords the biker and hiker green areas and shelters that are ideal for picnicking or as resting spots before continuing on one’s journey. Whalan is also known for its famous Stand Still Parade, featured on CBS Television. Held on the third Saturday in May, the parade features a moving audience while floats and color guards stand still. This day-long celebration also includes live music, ethnic foods and many other activities. Large crowds are drawn to Whalan over the July 4th weekend for the annual three-day Fast Pitch Softball Tournament. One of the more well known trout streams in Southeast Minnesota runs a few miles out of Whalan along Gribben Valley. Come and enjoy the beauty of small town life!

Continued From Page 40

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

LeRoy

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 prairie-style bank designed by Purcell and Elmslie, students of Louis Sullivan, and the public library building, the only example of the small-town Carnegietype Classical Revival style library building left intact in Mower County. Lake Louise State Park 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 purple-fringed 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. Continued on page 44

Discover the benefits of wind energy at EDP Renewables Energy’s Pioneer Prairie Lookout Our FREE, unique, and educational wind farm lookout is located on the south side of LeRoy, northeast of Pioneer Prairie Wind Farm.

LeRoy

CALENDAR OF EVENTS LeRoy Commercial Club 2014 BASKET SOCIAL, TRAVEL LANES • June 6 LAKE LOUISE STATE PARK OPEN HOUSE • June 14 SHOOTING STAR TRAIL BIKE RIDE • June 28 SUMMERFEST CELEBRATION • July 18, 19 & 20 Tractor Pull, Kiddie Carnival & Pedal Pull, Food Stands, Variety Show, Street Dance, Bean Bag & Volleyball Tournaments, Grand Parade, and More! FALL FESTIVAL • October 3 & 4 FALL CITY-WIDE RUMMAGE SALES • October 3 & 4 OLD TIME RADIO THEATER • November 1 & 2 CHRISTMAS IN LEROY • December 6 Cookie Walk, Craft Sale, Soup Luncheon

LL TOWN THAT LIVES BIG ! A S MA Bowling Alley • Restaurants • Shops • Camping City Parks • Indoor Swimming Pool Community Theater Group

507-324-5707 www.visitleroy.com

C LeRoy enter for the Creative Arts A Diverse Collection of Art and Quality Crafts 111 E. Main, LeRoy MN • 507-324-3777 Open Thurs, Fri & Sat 10am - 6:30pm • www.LeRoyCCA.com

Full line of groceries, fresh meat and bakery. 108 Main St., LeRoy, MN 507-324-5380

Expanded produce and frozen food sections.

Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-7:00pm Sat 8:00am-6:00pm Sun 9:00am-12:30pm

TRAVEL LANES

& Supper Club 101 W. Main St., LeRoy, MN (507) 324-5211 Hrs: Mon-Sun 11:00am to Close

J&B Liquor Off Sale: Mon-Sat 10am-10pm Restaurant/Bar

Weekly Specials Wednesday Mexican Night Thursday Ribs, Fries, & Coleslaw Friday Fish Special (With Salad Bar)

Saturday Steak & Walleye (With Salad Bar)

Bowling: 11:00am-Closing

Banquet Room: Full Bar & Food Available Catering: No party too small or large!

HOMEMADE PIZZA

Thick or Thin Crust! Try Our New Chicken Alfredo & BBQ Garlic Chicken Pizza

Located on Highway 56, a designated Shooting Star Scenic Byway & Entry to the Shooting Star Hiking & Biking Trail

LeRoy

Continued from page 42

Shooting Star State Trail 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 towards Taopi, Adams and Rose Creek, allowing trail users to experience a rural landscape. The native wildflowers and grasses are a highlight of this byway and trail. Parking for trail users is located: •In LeRoy - east of County Road 14 on Lowell Street. •At Rowe Pit - north of LeRoy off County Road 14. This parking area also includes a shore fishing platform. •In Taopi - on the south side of Highway 56, between Maple and Main Streets. A vault toilet is available at this parking lot. Leroy is also home to the Pioneer Prairie Wind Tower Lookout and Interpretive Center.

“REACH FOR YOUR DREAMS”

LeRoy Office 102 West Main St., LeRoy, MN 55951

Ph. 507-324-5260

Website: www.fsbminnesota.com • Fax: (507) 324-5337

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

SWEETS HOTEL

HISTORICAL HOTEL, RESTAURANT & LOUNGE est.

1898

8 Themed Suites & Rooms Including 5 Jacuzzi Suites Room Reservations 507.467.3466 Good Old Fashioned Breakfasts! Daily Lunch Specials!

Nightly SpecialS 4-9pm • 7 Days A Week

Restaurant Hours:

Mon-Fri 6am-9pm Sat & Sun 8am-9pm Bar Hours: 8am-Closing Happy Hour 4-6pm

thursday Mexican Night Friday All-U-Can Eat Fish Saturday All-U-Can Eat Prime Rib All Specials Include Full Salad Bar With Soup 128 W. Main St., LeRoy, MN Restaurant 507.324.9546 Open 7 Days a Week! www.sweetshotel.com

Chad & Camri Harrington

Phone: 507-561-2282 M-F 8-5 • Sat. 8-12

11 miles South of Spring Valley on Highway 63

Rose Creek

Prairie Visions Shooting Star Scenic Byway & Shooting Star Regional Trail Prairie Visions is a cooperative venture of four cities, Adams, LeRoy, Rose Creek, and Taopi along with Mower County to preserve the area’s natural and historic resources while creating a diverse, sustainable economy based on agriculture, tourism, and small business. h

Proposed Shooting Star Recreational Trail

Rose Creek

16t l Annua

Prairie Visions Presents

Bike Ride Shooting Star Trail Saturday, June 28, 2014

Adams Completed Shooting Star Recreational Trail

MINNESOTA IOWA

Taopi

Rose Pedaler in Rose Creek is the starting point

Lake Louise State Park Lake Louise Trailhead 56 LeRoy Shooting Star Wildflower Route Hwy 56 • Scenic Byway

Lake Louise State Park

www.visitleroy.com/lakelouise.html Lake Louise lures hikers, horseback riders, skiers, and snowmobilers to its trails, which wind through open landscapes and lush hardwoods. The confluence of the Little Iowa and Upper Iowa Rivers that occurs in the park provides water recreation. In addition, visitors swim, boat, or fish in Lake Louise. Hiking and horseback riding are also popular sports at this park. The lakeside picnic grounds and beach area draws visitors in the summer.

2014 Scheduled Programs

Campground Opens Memorial Day Weekend Open House Sunday, June 14, 2014

Candlelight Walk 5:30-8:00pm Sept. 13, 2014

Birding and Wildflower Walks

The park boasts of 146 species of birds, of which 99 are potentially breeding species. The park has records of some rare species, too: the upland sandpiper (Batramia longicauda), red-shouldered hawk (a special concern species) and the state-endangered Henslow’s sparrow. A small great blue heron rookery is also present in the park. Turkeys are commonly seen on the park trails.

Shooting Star Scenic Byway Fall Festival

October 3 & 4, 2014

Activities in the communities of Rose Creek, Adams, and LeRoy along the Shooting Star Scenic Byway, Hwy 56 from I-90 to LeRoy.

LeRoy • Sweets Hotel, Restaurant & Bar • • Travel Lanes Restaurant, Bar & Bowling • • LeRoy Center for Creative Arts •

Adams

• Bubbles Cafe • • Bank Boutique •

Rose Creek

• Log Cabin Inn • • Creek Bar and Grill •

Check out the other businesses in LeRoy, taopi, Adams & Rose Creek Antiques • Grocery • Convenience • Gas Hardware • Gifts • and more!!!!!

Rose Creek/Adams

he population of Rose Creek is approximately 380 citizens. Many of our citizens work in Austin and Rochester, but choose to live in Rose Creek because of the small town atmosphere, friendliness and great school district. A beautiful oak park, with a creek running through it, borders our city on the west side. Along with our great school, our city offers daycares, a grocery store, hardware store, locker, auto repair, bar & grill, elevator, gift and snack shop, bank, post office and more. Come to Rose Creek and check out our city. Come check out Rose Creek Fun Day July 11-13, 2014!

Call Today For Tee Times

• Beautiful 18 Hole Golf Course • Watered Fairways, Tees & Greens • Driving Range 1-507-582-3595 • Bar & Lounge Having Fun In The Sun! Play Golf At One Of Southern Minnesota’s Best Kept Secrets BUT NOT FOR LONG!

Clip and save on these great deals! 1 Golfer & 1/2 Cart for $28!

(one 18 hole green fee & 1/2 cart rental for $28 plus tax)

4 Golfers with Carts for $100!

(four 18 hole green fees with cart rental for $100 plus tax)

2 Golfers with Cart for $50

(two 18 hold green fees with cart rental for $50 plus tax)

Good for 2014 Season

www.cedarrivercountryclub.com

Mabel

abel is snuggled in the southeast corner of Fillmore County, just twenty 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. Frank Adams platted the Village of Mabel in the fall of 1879, naming it Mabel in honor of his young daughter. The 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 50’s & 60’s 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 and a burn-out contest.

One If you need supplies... StOp check our list!

• Clothing: Tingley & Northerner Footwear, Red Wing Work Shoes, Rainsuits, Gloves, Carhartt Clothing, Sweatshirts, Socks, & much more • Rubbermaid, Brooms, Coolers, Paper Towels • Garden Shop • Toys: Games, Dolls, Wagons, large Ertle Selection

Swap a Tank

20lb & 30lb cylinders

11748 State Hwy 43• MABEL, MN

507-493-5217

Hrs. M-Th 7:30am-6pm Fri 7:30am-8pm • Sat. 7:30am-5pm

Available Year Round

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 & 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. Convenience & Service all through the Root River Valley

Mabel bp Food Shop • • • • • • •

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

Hunting/fishing license & Game Registration

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

Locally owned and operated by S&A Petroleum

Mabel

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

50s & 60s Day Saturday, August 9, 2014

For more info visit Mabel’s website

www.cityofmabel.com City offices: 507-493-5299

• Car Show Registration 8am-11am • Trophies at 3pm se in Crui ockin’ • Burn Out Competition 4pm r for a d time! www.mabelclassiccarshow.com goo

Hesper-MABEL

steam engine days Friday, Saturday & Sunday, September 5, 6, 7 2014 Threshing • Parades • Exhibitions • Food • Crafts • Entertainment • Model Railroad Show • Mutton Busting • Antique Show & Sales • Jolly Jumps Amusement & Little Blue Choo Choo Train for Kids • Tractor Pull • Many, Many Activities

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

Full Service Salon

Heather Kleiboer Photography

• Manicures • Pedicures • • Hair Styling •

• Seasonal Craft Items • • Candles • Coffees • Antiques • • Home Decor •

Weddings. seniors. Families.

All in one convenient location!

Split Enz

Steph Liddiard, Owner 507.493.5600 118 Main St S, Mabel, MN

{R&C Repurposing}

Will Build Your Primitive & Barnwood Treasures Shelving • Door Benches • Orders Welcome Ron & Carol Bjerke • Mabel, MN • 507.459.9410 • 507.459.2885

507.456.6473

www.heatherkleiboerphotography.shutterfly.com

BBG’s

B’s Nest

Main Street, Mabel 507. 450. 6218 Thurs-Fri • 9am-4pm

Sat • 10am-3pm

101 N. Main, Mabel, MN • 507.493.5800 Open Mon-Fri 6am-4pm • Sat 6am-2pm • Closed Sunday

Mabel Liquor Store 106 North Main, Mabel, MN 55954

507-493-5544 101 E. Newburg, P.O. Box 367, Mabel, MN Phone (507)493-5426 www.bankofthewest.com • 24 Hour ATM

ON & OFF SALE Open Monday-Saturday at 10:00 AM

Mabel

TWO BUSINESSES IN ONE! Located on Hwy 44 in Mabel, MN one block west of Main Street look for our signs

Krazy Kwiltz Quilt & Fabric Shop Fabric, Quilting Supplies, Notions, Floss, Yarn, Hooks and so much more!

Evangeline’s

Home & Garden Décor

Offers a mix of new, vintage & antique merchandise, hand made/hand sewn along with reinvented items! Visit us at www.facebook.com/evangelineshomedecor

Doll Clothes for 18” & 16” dolls, Fabric Purses & Diaper Bags

Handicap Accessible Open Daily 12-5pm; Saturdays 10am-5pm

507-493-5893 • 416 N. Maple, Mabel, MN

Candles • Cards • Candy • Gifts • Coffee • Flowers • Plants Antiques & Repurposed Items (Throughout the shop - all for sale)

Find Us On

Balloon Bouquets • Accessories • Purses • Scarves Feel free to call after hours: 563-419-4894 Owner: LeAnn Welch Jevne ‘Let my family take care of your family!’

MABEL FLOWERS & GIFTS Available at Mabel Flowers & Gifts

105 S Main Street, Mabel, MN • 507-493-5400 • 888-321-7875

www.mabelflowers.com

Turn south off Hwy 44 onto Main St. We are 3 1/2 blocks south of Hwy 44.

Mabel “I keep a jar of Steuart’s Pain Formula by my bed and reach for it at night when my knee pain flares up. It knocks the pain right out!” -Mike Marsden of Mabel, MN Marsden has been using Steuart’s Pain Formula for about 4 years and says he’s constantly recommending it to other people!

OPEN

Monday-Friday 8am-4:30pm

Retail Outlet 203 N Main St., Mabel MN • 877-210-9664 • www.steuartlabs.com Peterson

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 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. Each June, on the third weekend, the city hosts the popular Gammel Dag Fest Ride, brought to the area by noted bicycling enthusiasts, The Fit Tourist and HaveFunBiking.com. The ride offers four options of 15, 35, 65, or 100-miles. When not on the trail, visitors can find themselves on the banks or in the cool waters of the Root River or tributary creeks. 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. Named in Midwest Living’s 30 Great Spots to See Fall Color, 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, the depot has since been restored and converted to the Peterson Station Museum & Continued on page 52

Peterson

Continued from page 50

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. During June’s Gammel Dag celebration, the town offers everyone the chance to be Norwegian for a day. Norwegian artisans demonstrate their talents, courtesy of the Vesterheim Museum, as visitors enjoy folk dancing and authentic Scandinavian foods. Also included in the festivities are a 25-mile tractor ride, Amish buggy rides, storytelling, softball and beanbag tournaments, 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 and open jam sessions with local Americana trio, Vinegar Hill. 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, Veteran’s Park is less than one block from the trail. Down the block, visitors will find artisan works at Turned Write Handcrafted Art, specializing in turned wood pens, bowls, and gift items. The store also highlights art and craft items for several other local artisans, including Root River Baskets, Root River Lures Metz’s Hart-Land Dairy & Honey, Simple Soaps For Simple Folks, and award-winning, local wildlife painter Micah Hanson. Todd & Ed’s provides hunting and fishing gear, including guns, ammunition, apparel, and supplies.

Come Spend the Day on the Root River! Short & Long Trips Available!

Owners -The Schuelers

To quench your thirst or appetite, Peterson offers the Geneva’s, serving ice cream, cold drinks, and snacks, the American Legion Club or Chiggy’s Liquor, in its historic 1856 building. Burdey’s Café, a local favorite, famous for their homemade pies and creative and delicious menu options, at small town prices, is operated by Kristin and Chef Steve Burdey, a 2013 ExpoCulinaria competition chef and 2014 competition judge. Lodging in Peterson is as unique as the town. Newly refurbished is the PengerVault, a historic 1908 brick bank building on Mill Street. Across City Park lies the Wenneson Historic Inn, built in 1904 along the tracks of the Southern Minnesota Railroad and The Crossing B&B, located at the original site of the 1877 Peterson Train Depot. Geneva’s Hideaway is seven, two-bedroom suites, each with a private living room, bathroom, and fully-equipped kitchen, and one studio accommodation. Camping is available at the city RV park.

Preston

Preston Tourism

prestontourism@ prestonmntourism.com

2014

Minnesota’s trout Capital

Preston’s Trout Days! May 16-18, 2014

Fishing Contests, Car show, Dance, parade, Family Fun activities, Food Vendors, tractor pull, Garage sales, Golf tournament, and More!!!

April 2014

12…MN Trout Fishing Opener, Statewide 12…National Trout Center Opens 12…Mystery Cave Opens for Season 26…Preston Pride Clean Up Day

Preston Events

May 2014

16-17…Preston Trout Days Celebration 16-18…City Wide Garage Sales 17…Servicemen’s Club Chicken BBQ Dinner 18…Preston Chamber Golf Tournament

June 2014

12…Preston’s Family Fun Night

July 2014

10…Preston’s Family Fun Night 20…Fillmore County Pork Producers Fly-In DriveIn Breakfast, Fillmore County Airport 22-26…Fillmore County Fair 26-27…10TH Annual Men’s Fast Pitch Tournament

August 2014

1-3…Border League Youth Fast Pitch Tournament 13…Bicycling Across Minnesota (BAM) 14…Preston’s Family Fun Night

September 2014

6…...Taste of the Trail 10-30…”Scarecrows Come To Town” 13-14…Bluff Country Tractor Ride (Sponsored by Preston Historical Society) 19-20…City Wide Garage Sales 20…Fireman’s Dance, Sportsmen’s Raffle 20…Kid’s Health & Safety Day

Farmers’ Market each Friday from May-october starting at 11am

October 2014

25…Preston Pumpkin Fest & Fall Expo

November 2014

17…70th Anniversary of Preston Lion’s Club Charter 27…Fillmore County Turkey Day Run

December 2014

6…Lions/Chamber/ECFE Breakfast with Santa 25…Community Christmas Day Complimentary Dinner

January 2015

17…Preston’s Candle Light Ski & Chili Cook Off Contest

contact@prestonmnchamber.com

Moving to the Trout Capital? Thinking about relocating to Preston? Live and do business in the Trout Capital! Visit website for hours of operation & event schedule

ops

Exhibits - Classes - Worksh

ole

Try out Prestonʼs 9-H Fishing Course

120 St. Anthony Street S. • Preston, MN • 507-867-8801 www.nationaltroutcenter.org

Contact the Preston Economic Development Authority for Housing Incentives, Business Incentives, Grants, Loans and Site Selection for small or large businesses. Incubator business space available with lower overhead costs!

Contact Cathy Enerson at 507-765-2153 or cathy.enerson@ cedausa.com for details.

Preston

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, easily luring the angler. 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. While still in its infancy, the center plans a permanent, year-round facility with outdoor spaces for learning and hands-on demonstrations and indoor spaces for classes, exhibits, and retail space, all with access to the pristine Root River. The Driftless Fly Fishing Shop is also now open in Preston on St. Paul Street. 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. Parks 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. Visitors 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 Continued on page 57

ATM Available 24/7! F&M CoMMunity Bank 100 Saint Anthony St. N Preston, MN 55965 507-765-3823

“We Make Banking Easy!”

Preston

APPleS

Restaurant & Supper Club

August - December your garden needs: ❖ Garden Seeds ❖ Potting Soil ❖ Perennials ❖ Seed Potatoes ❖ Onion Sets & Plants

Hwy. 52 & 16 • Preston, MN 507-765-3388 www.brandingironmn.com Luncheon & Evening Specials Served Daily Tues.-Fri.

Bus Tours Welcome

Open 6 days a week

strawberries (June - July) rasPberries (august) bedding Plants (april - May)

evening specials

Sunday dinner

Includes salad bar or tossed salad

11:00am - 2:30pm MoNday - CLoSEd CHoiCE oF TuESday - Ribeye 3 ENTREES, WEdNESday - Fish Fry - Batter Fried or Boiled w/salad bar, coffee or milk Bread basket, cole slaw, potato or salad bar THuRSday - BBQ Pork Ribs Happy HOur FRiday - New york Strip or Pike in Lounge SaTuRday - Prime Rib SuNday - New york Strip or Pike Gift Certificates

❖ Fresh & Frozen Baked Apple Pies ❖ Fresh & FrozenFruit, Pumpkin & Pecan Pies ❖ Schwan’s Ice Cream Pie • Coffee • Ice Cream Cones ❖ Jams & Jellies • Cheese Fresh Baked Goodies From Our Kitchen ❖ Honey ❖ Popcorn ❖ Sorghum ❖ Watkins Products ❖ Maple Syrup ❖ Wild Rice

Pumpkins • gourds • Fall Mums squash • Calico Corn gift baskets & boxes Poinsettias • wreaths Christmas trees • roping OPeN 7 dAyS A Week • 9:00Am - 6:00pm

507-765-4486 • Hwy. 52 & 16 • Preston, MN www.prestonappleberryfarm.com

Plenty for Twenty-two! ! Tuesdays, Thursdays & Sundays - 4pm to close

NEW

Choose 1 appetizer or 2 BeverageS and 2 entreeS

Includes choice of potato, bread basket, and a trip to the salad bar - all for $22!* * Not available for groups over 20. No discounts applied to this special. also no senior discounts.

Root River Hardwoods Kiln Dried Lumber Stores 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

Preston, Mn 8:00 - 4:30, M-f 9:00 - 12 noon, sat. 888-809-6637

Albert leA, Mn 8:00 - 5:00 M-f 9:00 - 12 noon, sat. 855-222-8781

More than just lumber

Specializing in custom made . . . • Trim • Flooring • Paneling • Stair Parts • Interior Doors

Visit our beautiful new showroom in Albert Lea with over 30 Wood Species displayed!

Skip the middleman and buy direct from the sawmill!

Preston

Maple Springs Campground, Inc. & Country Store

21606 County 118, Preston, MN 55965 Owners: John & Doris Palmer Reservations:

West of Forestville State Park on beautiful Forestville Creek

507-352-2056 or email: maplecamp@gmail.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 Candy, 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

www.maplespringscampground.com

-Fi

i Free W

EVERY O WELC NE OME! St. Paul Street, Preston 507-765-2205 OPEN: Mon-Fri @ 4pm Sat @ 3pm Party Room Available

Electronic Pull Tabs & Bingo

ATM

Preston Continued from page 54

19th century replicas such as kitchen gadgets and supplies, bonnets and hats, books, toys, games, and custom glazed pottery. Several signature events are held at the site; Bread Making Day, From the Churn, and Homestead Day in June, 1899 Independence Day Celebration in July, By the Light of the Lantern in August, and Apple Cider Pressing and Apple Butter Making in October. Downtown Preston boasts its own historical pride with the 1902 Milwaukee Elevator, a towering site. Also on the site are a restored 1939 Milwaukee Road boxcar and 1951 caboose. Future plans for the site include an interpretive center focused on highlighting rural agriculture. The trailhead is nearby and beckons visitors to hike, bike, skate, and ski the paved Root River Trail system or the 18-mile Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail. JuliaClaire Repeat Boutique, Preston Floral Treasures, Uncommon Charm, Hoffman Stables, and several other businesses dot the city and surrounding area. A must-see and must-taste destination is the Preston Apple and Berry Farm, sitting above the city on the rolling bluff and brought to life by a colorful Hungarian immigrant and his wife. The farm encompasses over 1,000 apple trees on five acres, a quarter acre of raspberries, and a large vegetable garden. The store on site offers a wide array of goods and of course, delicious fruit. Several culinary options are available in Preston; fine dining at the hill top Branding Iron, The Sweet Stop & Sandwich Shoppe, Chic’s Pizza, Bowlwinkles Cantina at the B&B Olympic Bowl, Casey’s General Store, and

Located at the Fillmore County Fairgrounds No Reservations (First Come First Serve) • Restrooms & Showers • Dump Station • Firewood & Fire Rings • Near the Root River • Some Electric Hookups • Near the PrestonHarmony Recreation Trail

413 E. Fillmore St. Preston, MN 55965

www.fillmorecountyfair.com

Opening April 15th 2014 • 507-765-2370 Closed July 22-26, 2014 for the Fillmore County Fair Convenience & Service all through the Root River Valley

Continued on page 58

Preston Motor Mart • • • • • • •

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

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

Preston, MN 55965 B & B Olympic Bowl Hwy 521-507-765-2522

Open 7 Days a Week

Fun...Great Food Open Bowling Great automatic Scoring & Call for availability

Spacious Bowling area

lounge hours:

Mon-Sun - 9:00 am - Closing

“happy hour” Mon-Fri - 4:00 - 6:00 pm

Birt hd Part ay Ava ies ilab le

Restaurant:

Mon-Fri - 5:00 am - 10:00 pm (Breakfast and lunch Specials) Saturday - 5:00 am - 10:00 pm Sunday - 5:00 am - 10:00 pm

$1 Bowling

on Sunday all Day

B&B~The PlaCe TO Be!

Call for

Dinner Specials

Preston Continued from page 57

the Servicemen’s Club. The city features two golf courses; the 9-hole Preston Golf & Country Club and the 18-hole River’s Bend Golf Course. The latter is part of Old Barn Resort, rated as one of the 24 Best Midwest Campgrounds by Midwest Living. The resort sits atop a sloping ridge and offers amenities such as a camping, a hostel, restaurant, and pool. Another site, Maple Springs Campground, sits nestled along Forestville Creek and is on a century old farm, while Valley View Campground and camping at the county fairgrounds are nearer to downtown. Also downtown are more traditional lodging options Crestwood Country Cabin, Country Trails Inn & Suites, and the Trailhead Resort. For those looking for an offbeat lodging experience, with all the comforts, the Historic JailHouse Inn is just the place. The former Fillmore County Jail and carriage house, has been completely renovated to a 12-room bed and breakfast with rooms cleverly named for their former use. Voted “Best B&B” in Best of Bluff Country and featured in USA Today as one of the most unique B&B’s in the nation. Throughout the year, Preston is bustling with activity including Trout Days festivities the third weekend in May, the Fillmore County Fair the third week of July, and Family Fun Night the second Friday evening June through August. The autumn and winter season offer Taste of the Trail in September, Pumpkin Fest & Fall Expo, the fourth Saturday in October, Turkey Day Run held Thanksgiving Day, the Holiday Expo the first Saturday in December, and the Candlelight Ski & Chili Cook Off Contest the third Saturday in January.

TrailHead Inn and Suites Located Directly on the Root River State Bike Trail

All New Honeymoon Suite! 24 Spacious Rooms - Suites - Doubles - Singles - Complimentary Breakfast - New Hot Tub / Sauna Room - Conference Room For Information or Reservations

(507)765-2460

Trail Head Parking Lot, Preston, MN

2 New Cabins Clothing Selection

Guided Trips • Flies For Area Streams Gear • Tackle • Local Info Fly Fishing Lessons • Wader Repair Minnesota's Trout Capital on the South Branch of The Root River! FLy Shop open ApRIL 1, 2014 oR by AppoInTmenT.

Call or email Mel to book guided trips for 2014 melvin@minnesotaflyfishing.com • 507-327-4276

T-Shirts • Sweatshirts • Hats • Raincoats

208 St. Paul Street SW, Preston, MN

www.trailhead-inn.com

www.minnesotaflyfishing.com

with logo of Root River Trail & Trail Head Inn

Preston Continued from page 38

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 red-tailed 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.

GolfinG SpecialS 1/2 Price Membership 1st Year 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! Women’s Day • Tuesday • 2pm Men’s Day • Thursday • 12pm Cart Rental Available Club House Pro-Shop Watered Fairways

prestongolfcourse@gmail.com

Enjoy the views of our gently rolling 9 hole course!

Preston Mercantile on Main 104 Main Street SW • Preston, MN 55965

(Main St. is lower side/South side of Court House Square)

Artisans: Mike & Kari Odenbrett 507.951.3387 or 507.951.3563 • Hardwood Furniture •Antiques •Vintage Finds/Treasures •Custom Woodworking

Lisa Stensrud, DPT 212 Fillmore St. W, Preston, MN Phone: 507.867.8007 • Fax: 507.867.8018

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

The Sweet Stop and Sandwich Shoppe 507-765-9956

Subs, Soups & so much more! Free wireless internet available!

Showroom/Store: Showings by Appointment Guaranteed “Open” Hours: 2nd weekend of each month, Sat & Sun 10am-3pm (April-October) Visit www.bluffcountrywoodworks.org for online shopping

10% Discount Build your own case of liquor or wine

Weekly specials Lottery Games

Cakes for Birthdays, Anniversaries, Graduations, Holidays or no holiday at all!

110 St. Anthony St. South • Downtown Preston • www.sweetstop. net

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

Sold Here

Preston Liquor, LLc 811 Hwy. 52 North, Preston, MN (Next to Visitor’s Center) Phone 507-765-2565

Valley View Campground, inC.

27315 230th Street, Preston, MN 1/2 Mile West of Preston, off US Hwy 52. www.crestwoodcountrycabin.vpweb.com

Wifi Available, 3 bedroom, loft, bathroom, laundry, spacious kitchen & dining area, large family room, beautiful porch/deck, garage, playground, picnic shelter, grilling/campfire area. AC, h/c water, modern appliances & kitchenware. Dish TV, fireplace, bedding, towels, yard games, etc.

Call 507-765-4517, 507-261-9335, or 507-254-1053

Rent by weekend or by weekday Will sleep 12 • Group events, meetings, family get togethers

Open all year!

Nestled in the valley along Watson Creek and located 1 mile north of Preston & 3 miles south of Fountain, MN on Hwy. 52. We oFFer... • Modern Bathhouse • Store • Game Room • Playground • Fishing • Tube rental

SeaSonal SiteS with full hookupS available.

23750 US 52 • Preston, MN 55965 For reservations call: 507-272-3471 camping@valleyviewcampground.net • www.valleyviewcampground.net

Rushford

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 for its efforts to continue the historical and cultural heritage, 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 the cold-water streams that feed it are well-known for exceptional Brown, Rainbow, and Native Brook Trout, Smallmouth and Rock Bass, Sunfish, Crappie, and Channel Catfish offerings. Up to 300 participants of all ages flock to the river’s edge the last Saturday in April for the Lipmasters Fishing Tournament. A shot gun start signals the anglers to start reeling in the redhorse, white sucker, and carp running in the cool spring water and prizes are given in adult and kid’s divisions. Off the beaten path, the Rushford Sand Barrens, adjoining the Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest, provides an array of rare plant and animal ecosystems. 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. With recently improved access, the area is primed for photography, hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The city’s crown jewel is Magelssen’s Bluff City Park, soaring an impressive 440-foot above the valley floor and bears the city name in stone anchored on its south slope. Featuring prominent limestone outContinued on page 64

Rushford

Good Food! Good Friends! Good Times!

DAYS A WEEK OPEN EARLY & LATE

• Lefse Observation Kitchen • Coffee Shop • Gift Shop • Bakery • Consignment Shop • Wireless Access

Our real Lefse, it’s simply the best!

• Home-style Cooking • Generous Portions • Burgers made with ground beef in-house • Broaster Chicken • Salad Bar Favorites • Pizza Buffet & Pizza to go • 8 Ice Creams & Desserts • Wine, Beer & Specialty Drinks & OFF-SALE make the choices then CATERING SERVICE. You leave the cooking to us!

Lower level party hall also available for rental without catering.

507-864-7156 www.stumpys.net

REAL LEFSE AND FINE SCANDINAVIAN FOOD

507-864-2323 www.norslandlefse.com 210 W. Jessie Street, Rushford,MN Mon-Fri 7-4 • Sat 7-2 Closed Sunday

Restaurant & Lounge Sun 5:30am-midnight • Fri & Sat 5:30am-2:30am

1 block North of the Depot., 122 W. Jessie St. Rushford, MN

Rushford

Continued from page 61

croppings and three scenic overlooks, the bluff offers an open panorama of the area in several miles. The winding road traversing the hillside to the summit invites visitors to tour the recently developed Rush Creek Trail Natural Hiking Trails, Native American burial mounds, several 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 the fifth largest tree in Minnesota. From the vantage point, visitors will see the Root River State Trail, a 60-mile paved trail, ranked the best trail system in Minnesota. At the 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, under restoration, 1890 Grinde Schoolhouse, 1867 Episcopal Chapel, and 1913 Jail House complete the attractive grounds. Joining the state trail, east of the former railway bridge crossing is the newly developed Rush Creek Trail. The paved trail runs along the eastern side of the creek, along the levee, to Creekside Park. The park is the pride of the city, featuring walking trails, three pavilions, a grand gazebo, tennis courts, basketball court, hockey/skating rink and warming house. In its center is the custom and community-built playground structure, designed by renowned New York firm, Leathers and Associates, emulating the surrounding landscape and able to captivate the interest of children and adults. Visitors can follow Rush Creek Trail to either North End Park or Horseshoe Park or continue on, looping back to the Maglessen Bluff Hiking Trails. A stone’s throw from the latter, visitors will love the completely remodeled 1875 Hoiland Mill - 1875 mill representing the days of Minnesota’s wheat and flour production. Each May, it plays host to ExpoCulinaria,

an experience of taste. An entertaining and appetizing event, the evening features live music, wine, brew, food sampling, and Bring It to the Table, a competitive cooking challenge. Other historic sites include the 1870 Hanson Hardware Store (now Lynndyn Bridge 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, the library, and outdoors, Veteran’s Memorial Park. While valuing tradition is essential, the community also embraces modern ideas. Rushford is the Nanotechnology capital of Minnesota. Home to the Rushford Institute for NanoTechnology (RINTek), Rushford Hypersonic, and Rushford NanoElectroChemistry Company, the untapped potential for nano is substantial. On the second Saturday each June, RINTek holds a day of fun and educational presentations, events, and tours highlighting emerging applications, as well as the Youth Nano Camp. The Nanotek Trek, a four course bicycling event that draws both endurance and recreational cyclists, encourages participants to enjoy the pastoral scenery while supporting nanotechnology awareness in rural Minnesota. A full-service community, Rushford maintains many recreational possibilities. Take a dip at the refurbished Rushford Aquatic Center or golf a few holes at Ferndale Country Club. The challenging 9-hole course features 6,648 yards from the longest tees for a par of 36, for a course rating of 71.4. Bowl a few frames at Nordic Lanes or delight in the ultimate healing and relaxation of massage or infrared saunas at Abundant Life Fitness & Massage. 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. It serves as the backdrop for countless events Continued on page 68

Serving you better in our LiceNSeS: New Fishing and Location Hunting & Supplies

Outdoor Sporting Goods & Supplies • Bikes & Accessories • RED WING Boots • KEY Clothing

m-F 7-7 Sat 8-5 Sun 10-3

tuBE sAlEs & RENtAls

cOmpLete Garden center • Bird feeders & supplies • Pet food & supplies

Rushford Hardware Rentals 402 s. MIll stREEt, RushfoRD, MN

Conveniently located by Rushford foods 507-864-2540

Rushford

WINDSWEPT INN CLEAN AFFORDABLE LODGING

Cozy rooms feature private baths, cable TV, wireless internet access, air conditioning and in-room microwave & refrigerator.

Nestled into a shady Rushford hillside close to downtown, the Root River & Root River Trail

207 N. Mill St, Rushford, MN • 507-864-2545

open eaRlY at 4:00 am 7 days a Week

Pam’s

Fax-Copy Machine - FREE ATM

Off-Sale Liquor

hunting & fiShing licenSeS Sold heRe coupons specials at www.pamscorner.com!

91 Non Oxy Premium Sold Here

Stop in and cool off with a Flavorburst Shake! 8 flavoRS to chooSe fRom

enjoy the savings every time you use your clark/mastercard! Make it your fuel card today!

thly ! (just around back) n o M cials open 10am-10pm Spe 507-864-4231

Rushford Days Third Weekend in July Car Show Saturday at 12:00 Noon contact Pam foR moRe info

105 State Road 16, Rushford • 507-864-7949

Car Cruise Wednesday at 6pm

Plus great entertainment and much more! check us out at rushfest.org

Rushford • OPEN YEAR ROUND •

Bestemor Inn Overnight or Extended Stay

SUITES & BEDROOMS: 1 Double Bedroom Suite 1 Single Bedroom Suite 1 Single Bedroom Each with Full Bath, Microwave & Refrigerator

• Located downtown close to • Free Wifi the Root River Bike Trail • Pets Welcome

www.bestemorinn.com • 507.864.7886 202 N. Mill Street, Rushford, MN

906 Enterprise Drive, Rushford, MN • 877-349-7781 780 North Main, Pine Island, MN • 855-303-4155

www.mmlawnleisure.com

Rushford

larry dahl OwneR

andrew linder PaRtS and SeRvice

Jim Johnson SaleS MGR

Over 40 Years of Trusted Sales and Services

Certified MeChaniC ServiCeS Certified auto body repair Car • truCk • van retail SaleS

Bluffview Campground www.bluffviewcampground.com

Camper’s Special $

PER NIGHT

• PERMANENTS AVAILABLE • FULL HOOKUPS AVAILABLE

Located on the Root River Bike Trail Hwy. 16, Rushford, MN

888-384-7185 or Campground Office 507-450-4906

hrs: Mon-fri 7am-6pm, Sat 7am-noon 207 S. elm Street, rushford, Mn

507-864-7711 www.dahlsautoworks.com

THE CREAMERY PIZZA & ICE CREAM

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

Score Great Fun All New Lanes! Please Call Ahead

30 PLUS

ou m a F

Premium Ice Cream Flavors Homemade Waffle Cones And Bowls

Creamery Pizza! Eat in or Take out Pies • Cheesecake • Bread Pudding • And More! GRouPS • Full MeNu • DAily SPeCiAlS

Hours: Mon-Thurs 11am-9pm, Fri & Sat 11am-10pm, Sun Noon-9pm

open Bowling Call for Availability: 507-864-7799 oPeN 7 DAyS A WeeK

Birthday Parties Receptions & Banquets and Thunder Alley

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

Rushford Continued from page 64

throughout the year including skydiving, through Jumps for Hope, and the big show, SpectaculAir, the last weekend of September. Featuring an air show, aerobatic performers, hot air balloon rides, live music and great food, it promises to be fun for the whole family. Other city-wide festivals throughout the year include Rushford Days, a week-long celebration the third week of July, and Taste of the Trail, in September. With all there is to do, you’re bound to work up quite the appetite. Luckily, there’s no shortage superb of great dining destinations Rushford. Norsland Lefse, noted in Food Network’s compilation of Great Food Gifts from 50 states, prepares the fresh-made lefse in addition to offering a number of other Scandinavian goodies and gifts, as well as offering a full menu in their café. Watch through viewing windows in the lefse factory as a handful of workers transform the potato dough to Norse delight. Newly opened Jessie Street Java is one part chic coffeehouse, one part simple country atmosphere, and all delicious. Supporting local growers whenever possible and highlighting the work of local artisans in the décor, Jessie Street Java offers gourmet soups and sandwiches, all-fruit smoothies, specialty tea, coffee, and handcrafted espresso. Other local culinary experiences include The Creamery Pizza & Ice Cream, Shawnee’s Bar & Grill, Lynndyn Bridge, Stumpy’s Restaurant & Bar, and Subway. When it’s time to rest, Rushford accommodations are equally plentiful; Bluffview Campground, Windswept Inn, Bestemor Inn, all near the Root River or Rush Creek Trail or Sweet Dreams B&B, a quiet farmhouse, and Meadows Inn B&B, tucked serenely among the wooded hillside. The newly developed Loken’s Rushford Inn, across from the historic depot and trailhead, will open in May with 20- spacious rooms, conference room, and retail space.

Rushford Village In business over 28 years!

Don’t

SPOIL

your vacation! We’re here to help

24 hOur tOwIng ServIce • Auto & Lt. Truck Repair • Electrical Diagnostic • Transmission Repair • Car & Truck Tires • Full Brake Service • Full Line of Batteries

BR WN Tire, BaTTery & Transmission 507.864.2969 • 45024 St. hwy 43 S., rushford, Mn www.browntireandbattery.com

Rushford Village

he Town of Rushford was established in 1854. In 1869 the City of Rushford was formed as a separate area that was removed from the town. Later the town of Rushford was incorporated into a Village by a vote of the inhabitants on July 18, 1885 as provided for by a Minnesota state law passed in March 1885. The Village of Rushford 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”. Rushford Village actually surrounds the two cities of Peterson and Rushford, Minnesota. The City of Rushford Village has a total area of 3,364 square miles nestled in the Root River Valley between stunning bluffs and state forest land. The Historic Bluff Country National Scenic By-Way, State Highway. 16, runs east and west through Rushford Village, much of it near the Root River State Bike Trail and along the Root River. Rushford Village is a blend of agriculture, small manufacturing, small businesses, in-home businesses and wide open spaces. Its rolling farmlands provide residence to slightly over 800 residents. Many breathtaking panoramas can be viewed from the elevated points on its ridges overlooking the surrounding countryside. Watershed valleys and rich bottom lands provide streams and waterways with fine trout fishing. Community center and shelter rentals are available as well as camping facilities.

Spring Grove

Located 25 miles south of Winona, MN , Located 2 miles east of Rushford, MN on Hwy 16.

507-864-7626

Hole #1 at Ferndale

A mature course that opened in 1931 and is nestled in the hardwoods and bluffs of southeastern Minnesota.

• 9 Holes, Par 36 • Bar & Grill • Practice Green • Driving Range

Open to the Public www.ferndalegolfcourse.com

“The Best 9-hole Golf Value by Minnesota in Bluff Country” Golfer Magazine

ome and enjoy all that southeastern Minnesota has to offer. Spring Grove boasts a Family Swim Center, the Bluff Country Artists Gallery and Ye Olde Operate House presents a summer musical every July. Splish Splash at the Spring Grove Family Aquatic Center between the beginning of June and the end of August 2014. Open swim hours are 1-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Monday - Friday, and 1-7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Outdoor enthusiasts may also enjoy the tennis courts, playgrounds, nature park, and the Sawmill Horse Trail. Spring Grove celebrates its Norwegian Heritage with Syttende Mai, which falls on May 16-18, 2014. Bring the entire family for the parade, shopping, carnival and more. All summer enjoy Music in the Park on Wednesday nights. Music starts at 6:30 p.m. Concessions are available beginning at 5:30 p.m. When fall arrives, come back for the UFF DA Fest, Christmas in the Village and the Festival of Trees -- always the Friday after Thanksgiving. While in town, enjoy a meal at the traditional Ivy Grove Café or Doc’s Blue Moose soda fountain restaurant. Quick eats and gasoline are available at BP and Kwik Trip. Then, spend the night at the Village House Motel or overnight parking in Trollskogen Park. But, don’t leave town without a Spring Grove pop! And, of course, there’s shopping year-round at The Back porch, A Gift to Gab, Twisted Twig, Blooming Business, Sterling Drug, Yah Sure You Betcha Shoppe, Rural City, Bluff Country Artists Gallery, Red’s IGA, Mulqueen’s Hardware, Footwear by Footskins, HIS Business, Ballard House and more. Visit www.SpringGroveMN. com for more details on Spring Grove.

---Handspun, natural fiber sweaters, hats, mittens and more... ---Unique tables, cedar chest and other furniture handcrafted using native hardwoods. ---Inspirational stained glass panels ---Scripture plaques and rugged wooden crosses ---Footwear by Footskins® shoes and slippers All made in the U.S.A.

110 E. Main Street, Spring Grove, MN 55974 507-498-3723 www.scriptureplaques.com

Spring Grove

507.498.SWIM (7946) 7

Spring Grove Wednesday - Saturday 10:00 am - 5:00 pm

The

a c k P or c h

• Primitives • Primitive Furniture • Soy Candles • Made in the USA Prints

A Blend of Old & New Home Decor & Gifts

• Door Benches • Purses & Jewelry • One-of-a-Kind Items

Great Parking VISA MasterCard 116 Railroad Dr. N.W., Spring Grove • 507-498-5998

Welcome to the

sweet taste of childhood

The Twisted Twig Unique Flowers & Gifts

Spring Grove Pop has been refreshing palates for over 100 years. We are the city‛s oldest business, and our product is still handcrafted in small batches to ensure the very best taste experience.

With eight nostalgic ﬂavors to choose from, just one sip will take you back to a simpler time. • Strawberry • Orange • Grape • Cream Soda • Lemon Sour • Black Cherry • Creamy Orange Factory Tours Available by Appointment

215 2nd Ave. NW • PO Box 337 Spring Grove, MN 55974 507-498-3424 • cell 507-459-4661 www.springgrovesoda.com sgsoda@springgrove.coop

p Fresh & Silk Flowers p House Plants p Funeral Arrangements p Wedding Bouquets p Corsages & Boutonnieres p Interior and Garden Decor p Wreaths, Baskets and Candles

118 W. Main St., Spring Grove, MN Located inside bp Convenience Store 507-498-5569 • the-twisted-twig.com

Spring Grove

! g n i n i D Fun

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Printing SolutionS

• Explore •

Old Barn Resort Full Restaurant, Resort nBend Rivers’ Bar Old rant, WHO WHAT Bar and Catering WHO Bend lf Rivers’ WHA Full Restau ering WE AREGolf ’ Course d GoAppointments T Golf BenDO Appointments Fun!WE ARE ers‘BluffWE Cat Great Meals, Cold Drinks, Good RivVoted & contact scheduling Country’s Bar and Pick WE DO (507-765-4700) orstay email for the fun! Open the food and Come for + to toPlease provides hands-on activities Find the Time 6 years Play! the NTC by telephone Course’ The National U&to Play! Golf Best(NTC) , Good Fun! The National Trout Center

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Trout Center (NTC) Time info@nationaltroutcenter.orgApril-Thanksgiving, enjoy to be added to the contact list.the rustic charm of our Cold Drinks Find the engage the public in awareness of the environment and coldengage the public in awareness provides hands-on activities to ‘nationally Great Meals, IntheJune banquet NTC hours of operation and restaurant, program scheduling are also hosted rooms in of the environment and for the fun! Open our water fishery resources of the driftless bar and region the artsFacilities and 70andGolf water coldof food and stay 18-Hole, Par ’s barn. Our full menu for lunch fishery resources of the driftless region and the on our website. assist in findinghistoric lodging/camping Come for the the rustic charm ‘nationacrafts and groups meet at isThe NTC willregistered’ lly related to trout fishing. Students Resort arts and crafts related to trout fishing. Voted ‘Bluff Country nksgiving, enjoy in the + Rivers Bend Golf Course at the Old Barn accomodations for your group. yearsCountry Students and groups meet and dinner includes good quality, all-Americanfield sites where experienced instructors will lead April 25 Course’ - 27 –6Bluff studio Art tourApril-Tha nt, bar and banquet roomsmenu for lunch field sites or the NTCbeautifully at or the NTC where experienced situated in the valley along rivers, trees homemade Best Golf restaura food reasonably priced with delicious instructors will lead The NTC also offers seminars, barn. Our full a driving activities of various durations. ies www.bluffcountrystudioarttour.com ican activities of various durations. ribs, pork and rolling hills. The golf facilities include smoked registered’ historic good quality, all-Amer TheisNTC also offers seminars, 70 Golf Facilit Resort is Gator Greens Golf and More touches. Try our famous home The NTC or prearranged de lectures, and workshops on-site at the greens, lectures,Mini rental clubs, carts and full and includes 18-Hole, Par

Minnesota June-October, Saturdays – Amish Farmers’ markets

SUPPORT

scheduling

Cyclin-Inn of Whalan

Please contact the NTC by telephone (507-765-4700 ) or email info@nationaltroutcenter.org to be added to the contact NTC hours of operation list. and program scheduling are also hosted on our website. The NTC will assist in finding lodging/campin accomodations for your g group.

sauces. workshops on-site at Cave andthe rubson range, practice and dinner delicious homema the NTC located Root River State Bicycle Trail, on or prearranged the Niagara at the Old Barn and brisket prepared with our own community centers, or other public or events. Our trees bly priced with smoked ribs, porkon location at schools, Golf Course Home of full at schools, community haveonalocation alsoRiver restaurant and bar for lunch, dinner WeRoot along rivers, food reasona Rivers Bend centers, or other public Oh yeah, you’ll be back for more!the meeting sites. The NTC provides retailinviting merchandise related to level, while the more in the valley meeting skill our famous homeown rubs and sauces. for any a driving the sites. The NTC provides in aoff front nine is So stop touches. Try beautifully situatedgolf facilities include within our bar with wine, beer and spirits.and our mission through website sales and in our gift shop. avid golfer. our mission through website retail merchandise related to The and full prepared with also have a full youofcrave! challenging back nine appeals to the July 4-6 –hills. Harmony Fourth of July Celebration clubs, carts block two sales and in our gift shop. and brisket and rolling trail, road or river and enjoy what for more! We Our the and groups on our greens, rental The NTC We liesaccommodate in the hearttournaments of the you’ll be back practice Band So stop in off city parks, dinner or events. Parade, Concerts, ice Cream social, Games, Oh yeah, Become A friend The NTC lies in the range, bar for lunch, beer and spirits. you crave! the more heart of the nt andand and will customize four-statecourse unglaciated region:your event!Your donation can be designated for any of the following: and the bar with wine, what restaura skill level, while Dances Fireworks. four-state unglaciate river and enjoy inviting for any to the avid golfer. d region: Become A friend Cyclin-Inn. • Program Support trail, road or front nine is appeals our nine on Your donation can be back • Cultural Heritage/Trout & the Arts ing designated for any of challeng ents and groups July 5 – Harmony Hustle • Program Support tournam the following: • Educational Field Trips of the upper Midwest. accommodate We your event! 1K Kids Challenge. • Cultural Heritage/Trout & of the upper Midwest. • Endowment 10K Runwilland 5KzeRun/Walk, customi and • Educational Field Trips the Arts course • Stream Ecology/Environment Register at www.habitatwinona.org • Endowment • Educational Programs “The National Trout Center seeks to conserve Campground • RV & Tent und • Stream Eco • Memorial Honorarium logy/Environment • RV & Tent Campgro our natural and cultural heritage of trout 38 • Educationa Bed Hostel • 4 Room, July 11 – American Cancer society’s Relay For Life l Programs Bed Hostel • Memorial Honorarium • 4 Room, 38 and their cold-water environments of Fillmore County • 18-hole Golf Facility Facility Golf by engaging the public through • 18-hole 507-272-2149 www.relayforlife.org/fillmoremn • Restaurant & Bar & Bar education, practice and • Restaurant Located on the Root River Bike Trail, Whalan Banquets & Events • s awareness.” September 6 – Root River trail towns Open Weekends Memorial Day - Labor Day • Events & Banquet Tour the beautiful Trail StateforBike • Call “A taste of the trail” Trail after-hours or group reservations bluffs surrounding • State Bike taste the flavor of Harmony at Harmony trail Head • Canoes, Tubes, Bikes the Root River Tubes, Bikes 507.272.2149 Lectures, traveLogues,• Canoes, 10am-3pm Valley, via a Jeep or upon a horse drawn Lectur Fishing es, traveLogues, • Excellent Trout Fishing wagon. Available year around, weather seminars, & cuLturaL • Excellent TroutPool semina • Indoor Heated Pool rs, & cuLtur dependent. Schedule yours today. October – Fillmore Central monster Bash Haunted House aL • Indoor Heated • Gorgeous Scenery reunions, Harmony Community Center-Fillmore Central Band & • Gorgeous Scenery Our party rooms are great for weddings, celebrating! Nationalbirthdays Trout Center Choir Fundraiser Are also scheduled by the NTC at regular intervals throughout or whatever reason you’re Are also scheduled s, reunions, of by the NTC at regular intervals groups for wedding occasion 507.765.4700 for special your the year. Our newsletter and website will inform visitors of the throughout We’ll customize the year. Our newsletter are great celebrating! National Trout Center and website will ideas at www. Our party rooms PO Box2-250. 512 More information and menucalendar October 3-4 – Fall Foliage calendar of events for talks, art exhibits, book signings and r reason you’re of events for talks, art exhibits, inform visitors of the for groups of s or whateve 507.765.4700 birthday book signings and Preston,barnresort.com. MN 55965 other Fall foliage tours, apple treats, niagara Cave, Amish ze your special occasionideas other activities of interest www. of interest to fishers, residents and visitors to atactivities to fishers, residents and. org PO Box 512 We’ll customi and menu the driftless area. www.nationaltroutcenter.org www . nationaltroutcenter visitors to tours and more the driftless information area. Preston, MN 55965 2-250. More barnresort.com. www.nationaltroutcent

200 Acres of Fun Preston Lanesboro & Nestled between ast Minnesota Scenic Southe

What

the ntc

Driftless Area What We Offer At A Glance:

Glance: We Offer At A

Preston is the “ Trout Capital of OUR Minnesota” MISSION

Preston is the “ Trout Capital of Minnesota”

Parties • Weddings • Reunions! The go-to place for

events

ings • Reunions!

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ny.com loreHarmo .ExpDay Decemberwww 6 – santa

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For more information .2512 on events please visit.552 www.exploreharmony.com 800

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| 2014 -201

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Membership Share Options and Prices

2 800.552.251 ort.com www.barnres 12 800.552.25

“All Things Trout” 800.552.2512

www.barnresort.com

Membership Share Options and Prices

Community Supported Agriculture

Guide

Half share ………………… $425.00 G uidesingle A smaller, 5/9 bushel box for aAcouple, to at H istor ic B luff person, or a new member. Only available c ount group drop locations. ry

Community Supported Agriculture

box There are 3 deliveries of a ½ bushel way to satisfy May and early June. It is a great early in your craving for fresh local vegetables early. the season. Limited shares, sign up

for prices Fall Share ............................... See website

We offer one dozen eggs with your summer produce boxes. These are extremely popular and sell out quickly.

A pui cAti o n by b l i c Ati o n by

t, Go to our website at www.earthdancefarm.ne fill in the registration form and submit.

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Earth Dance Farm Norm Gross/Laurie Nelsen 27842 141st Ave. Spring Valley, MN 55975

Phone: 507-378-4252 Email: info@earthdancefarm.net www.earthdancefarm.net

How do I sign up?

ountry.c

www Sun.-Thurs.

Fri.-Sat.

Continued on page 77

www . nationa

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Local Food Naturally Grown Delivered to You Norm Gross/Laurie Nelsen 27842 141st Ave. Spring Valley, MN 55975 info@earthdancefarm.net

Local Food Naturally Grown Delivered to You

. org

Directions to the “World Famous”

Trailhead Resort - Preston Resort

Resort

www.earthdancefarm.net

MAP OF PRESTON, MN

State Trail and clothing available • Beverages, snacks, ice cream, for purchase in Main Ofﬁce rooms • Wireless internet available to select in the Trailhead Inn • Free local calls to those staying have phones but • The Trailhead Suites do not currently Main Ofﬁce local calls can be made from the

Call 507-765-2460 for reservations HOURS

Day Open daily, Memorial Day to Labor Ofﬁce hours: Mon-Fri 9am-9pm. During peak season (5/1-10/31) Sun 7am-9pm Fri 9am-10pm, Sat 7am-10pm, & & Sun.

Fri, Sat Labor Day - Oct. 31 office is open 10 only www.prestonmntourism.com Nov - April, office is open by appointment Fri, Sat, & Sun. May 1 - Memorial Day, office is open

Located on a

Trailhead Resort

507-765-2460 �

segment of the Root River State Bike Trail system in Preston, MN.

Inn, Suites & Cabins � MN 112 Center Street, Preston,

(507)765-2460

www.trailhead-inn.com

Inn, Suites & Cabins

Spring Valley Greenhouse & Floral

507-346-7440 • 720 N. Broadway • Spring Valley, MN svgreenhouse@gmail.com • Jacob, Jered & Carol Gehling

Shop Locally. Live Colorfully. We're your local florist! Check out our new & expanding inventory of hanging baskets, annuals, vegetables, trees, shrubs & perennials!

of spriNg valley

1010 N. Broadway • Spring Valley, MN Phone - 507-346-7326 Randy Sobotta, Manager/Sales

(507)765-2460

www.trailhead-inn.com

136 St. Anthony St. • Preston MN

Napa auto parts

P: 507.2

info@Cyc

to avoid being charged half of the advancewooded hilly region as the room rate.

Sun mornings • Continental breakfast on Sat and NEW WAFFLE MACHINE • Check-in at 3:00pm • Check-out at 11:00am • In-room cable TV (up to 70 channels) • Refrigerator in all rooms Main Ofﬁce • Microwave in select rooms and room) • Ice available (one bag per day per Valley • Quiet location - located on the Harmony-Preston

439 H Whalan,

www.Cyc

“All Things Trout”

2014

507.765.2151 • www.perfectglossy.com

“

507.272.2149

The go-to place for

“World Famous” Trailhead Resort - Preston

133 W. Main St. Spring Grove, MN | 507.498.DOCS

Hometown Minnesota,” pictorial Spring Valley, lies along the Historic Bluff Country National Scenic Byway. On the western edge of Fillmore County, this stagecoach and railroad boom town, set atop rolling bluffs and amid lush valleys and native prairies, was named one of Midwest Living’s “25 Ultimate Fall Drives”. For visitors, 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 Tunnel Mill Crafts, a blacksmith shop and traditional iron works. Offered are a variety of metal working classes, character-laden gypsy wagons, occasional special event tours of Spring Valley iron ore mines, and camping, even in the wagons. Each fall, the first weekend in October, the mill hosts the Tunnel Mill Fall Gathering, featuring various art and metal displays and demonstrations, as well as a wine and cheese social. The Brave Community Theater and Braveheart Theatre, in production for more than 40 years, is proud to be one of the oldest selfsupporting community theaters in Minnesota. The troupe highlights

drawn wagon. Available year around, weather dependent. Schedule www.Cyclin-Inn.com yours today.

Located on the Root River Bike Trail, Whalan Open Weekends Memorial Day - Labor Day Call for after-hours or group reservations

to Preston Highway 52 The Root River offers exceptional trout map of Preston) (see fishing and has been featured on Northland Trailhead Suites (5/1-10/31) talwas named $139.95 and ESPN -Capi $89.95 Adventures Jacuzzi Suite s Trout TV, andFrom $119.95 sota’ Destinations $89.95Minne by Midwest Outdoor Life Magazine as one of West: 1 Bedroom Suite $139.95 90 to Dexter Exit Midwest.” 2 Bedroom SuiteRoot River $89.95 the “Top 10 Trout Waters in theInterstate (Highway 16 East to Preston) $194.95 $114.95 Preston has some of the finest Trout Streams in the state, it was (6/1-10/31) Cabins Since branded in 2011 by state officials as “Minnesota’s TroutFrom Capital.” weekends on select Destinations East: We have a two-night minimum stay 90 to Rushford Exit policy. Interstate Birdwatchers will be pleased to know that the Root River supports cancellation hour 48 a have We NOTE: hours in cancelledof48birds, 16 West (Highwaylove overmust 40 be species including bald eagles. Hunters the to Preston) Reservations

Are your marketing materials PRETTY GOOD or PERFECT Glossy?

Spring Valley

OUR MISSION

Fun Fishing Fact

GOURMET COFFEE PREMIUM ICE CREAM OUTDOOR SEATING FREE WIFI

Doc’s Menu Available Next Door at Norski’s!

Whole H “The National Trout Center seeks to conserve our natural and cultural 507-272heritage 2149 of trout 439 andHalf theirStreet cold-water environmen ts Whalan,by MN 55949 engaging the public through Tour the beautiful education, bluffs surrounding practice and P: 507.251.5101 the Root River ” awareness. Valley, via a Jeep or upon a horse info@Cyclin-Inn.com

wooded shores and farmland harbor South: Destinations other large and small animal game such as white From tail deer, wild turkey, pheasants, fox, and coyotes. Either Highway 52 North to Preston AMENITIES or Interstate 35N to I90 East to Highway 16 East (Dexter Exit)

for prices Spring Share ....................... See website in

Egg Share ....................... $80.00 A pu b l

er.org

Whole House Rental

There are 30 separate coldwater streams Trailhead Inn (5/1-10/31) within a 20 mile radius of Preston! Standard Rm. $84.95 $59.95 w/Single Queen Bed From Destinations North: Rm. StandardRoot River Fish & Wildlife Highway 52 South to Rochester $94.95 $69.95 w/Double Queen Beds

¾ bushel This is our 18-week delivery of a family or a box. This size is meant for a small seasonal vegetarian couple. There are 8-13 crops in each delivery. Individual delivery …….. $600.00 Dropped by your home or workplace Email to confirm areas. Minn available in limited Se eSotA ~ ne iowA availability to your address. ~ Sw wiSc onSi Group site pick up ……. $550.00 n it up there. Dropped at a host site and you pick Check our website for drop locations.

we In late October through Thanksgiving of storage offer 3 biweekly bushel deliveries greens, veggies, root crops, herbs, hardy the season apples and more. Perfect to extend and eat local during the holidays.

www.barnresort.com

Cycli

U-Pick ries Strawber

om fishing & wildlifentourism.cDirections to the RATES .prestonm

Accomodations:

Summer Share

Visitor’s

SUPPORT

200 Acres of Fun Nestled between Lanesboro & Preston In Scenic Southeast Minnesota

the ntc

In Driftless Area

In June

The Gator Greens Mini Golf and More is located on the Root River State Bicycle Trail, on the Root River and within a block of two city parks, and the Cyclin-Inn.

Spring Valley

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 1800’s 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.

Things to do

Local Museums

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 1850’s village that was a part of the founding of SE Minn. 507-352-5111 • 507-9373251 • www.mnhs.org/places/sites/hf/

Walking 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

Root River Country Club

A beautiful and challenging 9-hole course, 5 miles south of Spring Valley on U.S. Hwy 63. 507-346-2501

Located on Hwy 63 (look for signs) May-October Saturdays 1pm-3pm

Overnight Camper Parking

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. NEW this year: Farmers’ Market, Tuesdays from 3-7pm! www. fourdaughtersvineyard.com • 507-346-7300

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

Lodging

The Almanzo 100, ROYAL 162 and ALEXANDER 380 (May 17TH) are self-supported gravel road bicycle races through the beautiful rolling farmland of southeastern Minnesota. The races and the accompanying ELIZA JANE MARKET are held every year on the weekend after Mother’s Day. New this year is the RUN WHA CHA BRUNG GRASS TRACK RACES & GRAVEL RACING EXPO, MAY 16TH. This event includes bicycle racing, a bike film festival, bike vendors, frame builders, arty folk and local businesses. http://www.almanzo.com, Grass Track Run What You Brung (Facebook)

Wilder Foot Races (June 14)

The Wilder Foot Races; Perley (30K), James (50K) and Abel (110K) are ultra endurance, gravel running races through the hills and valleys of SE Minnesota, with the start/finish in historic downtown Spring Valley. http://wilderfootraces.wordpress.com/

Grower’s Market

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

Good Earth Village

Events

Wilderfest (May 16-18)

South Park & Spring Valley Pool

Enjoy local recreation. Includes 3-12 ft. swimming pool and baby pool, playground equipment, picnic pavilions, 2 ball diamonds, 2 tennis courts, basketball, sand volleyball and horseshoes. Located on Hwy 63 and Co. Rd. 12.

Music in Spring Creek Park

Come and listen to live music held June and July from 6-8pm. Bob & the Beachcombers kick things off on June 8th! For complete schedule go to springvalley.govoffice.com

32nd Annual Root River Antique Engine And Tractor Show (July 18-20)

Featuring Minneapolis Moline, TC New Holland and MTM Tractors and Equipment. http://rootrivershow.org

Ag Days Celebration (August 13-17)

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, King of the Hill Derby, 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. springvalley.govoffice.com

King of the Hill Derby (August 16) Home of the Original “King of the Hill” Soap Box Derby. springvalley.govoffice.com

Spring Valley 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.

Glad Gatherings Victorian Retreat Home

This new lodging option is perfect for quilters and scrapbookers who are looking for a weekend getaway, for hosting bridal and baby showers, graduation parties, girls’ weekends or other events. 310 N. Broadway, 507-346-2023, www.gladgatherings.com

Deer Creek Speedway and Campground

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 www.deercreekspeedway.com for the 2014 schedule. For camping call 507-346-2342

Spring Valley

Fowler’s bp & Food Shop

Next to Fowler’s bp in Spring Valley, MN Located at the intersection of HWY 16 & 63

Hwys. 16/63, Spring Valley, MN • 507-346-2686

LARGE WASHERS & DRYERS OPEN

HOURS

We have: SnackS Bait ice

24-hour credit card pumpS Hours Open: Mon - Fri 4:30am - 10:00pm • Sat & Sun 6:00am - 10:00pm

Valley Wash Cleaned Twice Daily • Hot, Soft Water

Car Wash 3 Bay Self Service

507-346-2579 • 800-660-MEAT

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 • Bailer Twine • & Much More! Hours: M-F 7-5:30 sat. 7-12:00 Closed sundays EBT Customers Welcome

www.odyscountrymeats.com

Spring Valley

Spring Valley Start Right. Start Here. •Camping Supplies •Hunting & Fishing License Sold Here • Full Service Hardware Store 7am-7pm Monday-Friday 8am-5pm Saturday 10am-4pm Sunday 630 N Pleasant Ave. Next to Kwik Trip • Spring Valley MN www.truevalue.com/joneshardware

Continued from page 74

comedy, drama, musical, and original productions, as well as Theater for Kids. North of town, amid the fertile soils of the region, Four Daughters Vineyard and Winery is six acres of prime grape growing. Family-owned and operated, the winery offers 15 modern wines, tours, and fine dining. 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 vast collection encompasses a vast amount including personal mementos of the family’s life. Additionally, 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 agricultural complex, and History Hall. This notoriety, coupled with the surrounding landscape and a love for outdoor recreation, has led to the formation of several world-class races and events beginning with the Almanzo 100, a challenging 100-mile bicycle race, held the first Saturday after Mother’s Day. The events have taken hold of the emerging phenomenon of endurance cycling on unpaved, backcountry roads. This ‘gravel-grinding’ has been such a draw that two other races have since been added; the Royal 162, a grueling 162-mile race over gravel, dirt, and water crossings and the Alexander, a bicycle ‘bike packing’ adventure over nearly 400 miles of roads and paths over three days. Bringing in over 1,000 participants and featuring 8,000-feet or more of vertical climbing, the races are increasingly popular among elite amateur athletes and Continued on page 78

Simpson’s A&W Drive-In 730 N. Broadway, Hwy 63, Spring Valley, MN. | 507-346-7486

Simpson Family Owned and Operated For 58 Years We Use 0 Grams Transfat Oil Whole Grain Buns NEW MENU ITEMS • Greek Salad, with or without Chicken • Greek Salad Sandwich with Chicken • Broaster Brand Chicken • Savory Turkey Burger • Sweet Potato Fries Draft Root Beer Made Fresh Daily

OPEN: M-F @ 11 a.m. Sat. & Sun. @ 10:30 a.m.

Indoor Dining Room Car Side Service Large Picnic Area Full Service with Carhops

SWEETS AND TREATS

Real Fruit Smoothees Blenders • Slushees Freezes Look for our Daily Specials on our website and Facebook

Don’t Miss our 18th Annual 50’s Cruise Nite, August 14, 2014 Find us on FB (Awesome A&W Drive-In) or at www.AwesomeAwdrivein.com

Spring Valley

Continued from page 77

recreational cyclists. Developed in partnership with the races, The Wilder Foot Races have also gained notoriety. The Perley Wilder 30K, James Wilder 50K, and Abel Wilder 100K are challenging gravel foot races. Aimed at bringing “you back to what running should be; free, simple, unsupported, adventurous, and arduous,” the races are typically held the Sunday after Mother’s Day, the race has been moved to June 14 in 2014. The Winter Wilder is another exhilarating event, spawned from the success of the races, and is held the second Saturday in January. Looking for more speed? Deer Creek Speedway, covering more than 60 acres, is one of the Midwest’s state-of-the-art racing complexes. Showcasing an average of 30 events a year, some of the biggest in the country, the speedway thrills with racing on its high banked,

Wine

Beer

Liquor

Ice

Continued on page 79

“REACH FOR YOUR DREAMS”

SPRING VALLEY BRANCH Hwy 16 & 63 N. P.O. Box 191, Spring Valley, MN 55975

Next to Sunshine Foods

Spring Valley, MN 507-346-1979

Phone 507-346-9836

Website: www.fsbminnesota.com • Fax: (507) 346-9838

Spring Valley Minnesota

Join us August 12-17 in Spring Valley for AG Days! Community Theatre, Cruise Night, Dance, Parade, King of the Hill Derby & More

507-346-2804

501 N. Park Drive Spring Valley, MN

OPEN DAILY 7:00AM - 9:00PM

FULL SERVICE GROCERY STORE

Your Community that supports Business and Community Livability and Vitality! Music in the Park, Sundays at Spring Creek Park, South of downtown.

www.springvalleychamberofcommerce.com Business Incentives available thru the EDA. Including opportunities in the expanded industrial park and generous downtown building incentives!

*$1,500

New Construction Housing Incentive •The Economic Development Authority would like to assist you with the site selection & financing!

Details on our website or call EDA Director: Cathy Enerson 507-346-7249

www.springvalleyeda.org

www.sunshinefoodstores.com

This institution is an equal opportunity provider *Check website for guidelines and qualifications for all EDA programs

USDA E.O.

Spring Valley/St. Charles Continued from page 78

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 full-service campground. Other lodging accommodations include Spring Valley Inn & Suites, Echo Ridge Cabins, Spring Valley Cabins, and Good Earth Village. The 500-acre village retreat contains a collection of winterized cabins, themed areas, such as Old Town, and rustic Barn, ideal for gatherings. Dining and shopping options are as varied as the rest of the town’s conveniences at places like Spring Valley Bakery, Big Bob’s Eatery, Elaine’s Café, Rack’s Bar & Grill, Johnny Ringo’s Saloon, and Old Tyme Saloon. Always popular is the A&W Drive-In, complete with car hops and service with a smile. Downtown, Valley Lanes Bowling Alley offers up indoor entertainment for all ages, while golf enthusiasts will enjoy the 9-hole “Root River” course at the Root River Country Club. It features 2,959 yards from the longest tees for a par of 36, with a course rating is 37.1. South Park 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, presenting additional recreational activities. Newly expanded, the trail offers 2.58 miles of walking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or snowmobiling and the stream is prime trout water, perfect for anglers of all sorts. It plays host to music in the park, each Sunday, May through October, and portions of the town’s big celebration; Ag Days. Held the third weekend of August, it features a cruise night, King of the Hill Soap Box Derby, live music and dancing, tractor show, vintage baseball, a bean bag tournament, fishing contest, theatre, and the grand parade.

t. Charles, located between Rochester and Winona, is the gateway to the Whitewater State Park. The beautiful little city offers big city conveniences with the advantages that come with living in a small town. Whitewater State Park is only seven miles to the north of St. Charles where you won’t be disappointed if you’re looking for something recreational to do. Also within St. Charles you’ll find five beautiful city parks that offer a variety of activities to satisfy everyone’s interests, whether it be picnicking, volleyball, baseball or softball, biking or hiking, or taking the kids to the playgrounds. Other family fun includes fishing, golfing, sightseeing, wildlife watching including the local aquatic center, unique shopping and dining. You can even go on a geocaching adventure! It’s difficult to fit into one day, so take advantage of the great lodging available to visitors in St. Charles or a neighboring town. Be sure to stop by St. Charles in August for the town festival, Gladiolus Days. St. Charles is a great place to discover the beauty and historic charm of s out he a s t e r n M i n n e s o t a’s blufflands.

We are a family owned campground located in the scenic Whitewater Valley with a premier trout stream running thru the campground. We offer 122 campsites along with a sleeper cabin, the lodge cabin and a swiss-chalet cabin.

Campground & Trail Rides

Recreation

• Arcade • Heated 30’ x 50’ pool • Playground • Basketball Court • Horseshoes • Sand Volleyball Court • Wagon Rides • Trout Fishing • Kiddie Train Rides • Jumping Pillow

The following activities involve an additional fee: • River Tubing • Funcycles/Pedal Carts • Crafts for Kids • Horseback Trail Rides • Trail rides w/Dinner • Canoeing

Location We are located 8 miles N of St. Charles at the intersection of State Hwy 74 and Cty. Rd 39. Complete directions from the Twin Cities are available on our website.

Mark & Betty Thoreson 507.932.3098 • www.lazydcampground.com

Winona

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. Visitors to southeastern Minnesota will be hard pressed to find a destination with as much to offer. Looking out from the highest vantage point, 450-feet about 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. West of the landmark, across the bluff, sits Garvin Heights Park with equally inspiring outlooks, hiking, and restored goat prairies. Below, encircling the two-mile Lake Winona, is Lake Park, home to the C.A. Rohrer Rose Garden, Veterans Memorial Park and Bandshell. Downtown, Levee Park, named for the stone levee surrounding this northeastern portion of the city, allows an up close encounter with the legendary Mississippi. 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 include historic homes, churches, banks, and courthouse highlight the lives and culture of the people who settled here. A vast number of astounding glass art within the city, from both international and local glassmakers, has earned Winona the designation of Stained Glass Capital of the U.S. Fine and performing arts thrive in Winona. 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. Highlighting stage, screen, music, dance, and culture, weekend and extended festivals have been coming an increasingly popular draw to Winona. Mid West Music Fest (June), 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, held in September at Unity Park, 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/ Continued on page 83

Experience

Life As It Should Be

Lived

polish cultural institute and museum

Visit Bluff Country www.visitbluffcountry.com

featuring Lubiana Pottery

from Poland’s Kashubian Area Open: May thru October • Monday thru Saturday 10 to 3 Winter Thursday thru Saturday 10 to 3

102 Liberty Street, Winona MN • 507-454-3431

Winona

ITALIAN - AMERICAN CASUAL DINING A full service dining restaurant and bar, serving Italian/American cuisine. Also serving appetizers, sandwiches, pasta dishes, seafood, steaks, wonderful desserts and award-winning pizza.

• Whirlpool Rooms • Large Kiddie Pool • Meeting Rooms • Fitness Center • 2-Room Suites • Room Service

*Kids Stay & Eat FREE!

Each room includes: Refrigerator, Microwave, and a TV in the bathroom!

507-453-0303 888-292-0303

Intersection of Hwys 43 & 61 • Winona, MN

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner 6:30am-10:00pm Meetings Banquet Rooms to 60 Persons

Happy Hour 3-6pm 9-10pm

507-452-5400 • Winona www.greenmill.com

www.plazawinona.com

Unbeatable “Free” Hot Breakfast 2-Room Suites • Whirlpool Rooms

Conference Rooms up to 400 Persons • Deluxe Breakfast Bar • Indoor Pool • Whirlpool • Exercise Room

• Whirlpool Rooms • Brewski’s Pub & Grill • 106 Rooms & Suites

507-452-0606 • 800-595-6060

• Refrigerators & Microwaves in all rooms • 37” Flat Screen TV • Indoor Pool • Sauna • Kiddie Pool • Meeting Room Facilities • Gift Opening Room

Hwys 43 & 61 • Winona, MN

507-474-1700 • 800-HOLIDAY

www.riverportinn.com

www.hiexpress.com/winona/mn

Winona

FIND US PERCHED ON THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER IN WINONA, MN.

MMAM.ORG 800 RIVERVIEW DRIVE • WINONA WWW.MMAM.ORG • (507)474-6626

An American B & B with an English Accent Private Baths • In-Room Jacuzzis and Fireplaces • Fireplaces in Public Rooms • Large Front Porch • Celebrated Five Course Breakfast • Evening Refreshments • Across from Victorian Park • Walking Distance to Mississippi River & Historic Downtown Winona • Antiquing, Hiking, Biking and more.

Enjoy the quiet charm of our classic turn-of-the-century Colonial Revival Home

369 W. Broadway, Winona, MN 55987 • 507-457-9515 • Toll Free 866-737-1719

www.windompark.com

Winona Continued from page 80

veterans) Honor Ceremony, educational exhibits and demonstrations, and authentic crafts, arts, and foods celebrating the rich heritage of the people. In this agricultural region, food is another great culture. The Great River Road Wine Trail, noted for its picturesque scenery, rests in the Upper Mississippi River Valley American Viticulture Area, the nation’s largest. The fertile ground lends to various vineyard and wineries. Garvin Heights Vineyards, set atop the bluff outside the city, produces choice wines, including white, rosé, red, blends, fruit and dessert wines, from cold climate grapes grown on the farm and finished in oak barrels of native Minnesota oak. Minnesota’s best bakery, as voted in 2013, is the long-standing and legendary Bloedow Bakery. Other delightful culinary options range from baked goods such as Mon Petit Cupcake and the Winona Bread and Bagel Company to thriving spots and cafés such as Awakening Coffee House, Blooming Grounds Coffee House, Blue Heron Coffee House, Erbert & Gerbert’s Sandwich Shop and Acoustic Café. Several ethnic restaurants dot the city and feature Chinese, Mexican, and Thai dishes. The Boat House gives an unobstructed view overlooking the river and Signatures is the city’s finest gourmet destination, located at The Bridges, an 18-hole golf course. For family-friendly and fun, historic fare, visitors can’t beat a stop to Lakeview 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, specialty boutiques, like J.R. Watkins, to recreational outfitters, such as the famous Wenonah Canoe. Stay a while. Ample hotels, bed and breakfasts, cabins, cottages, lodges, guesthouses, and campgrounds make lodging in Winona a simple matter of choice.

A little something for everyone. Bring in this ad to The Clothes Shop & receive ONE FREE ITEM ($2 value or less) with any purchase Expires 12/31/14

25th Day of Every Month

Always Accepting Clothing Donations

(Except Sundays & Holidays)

Everything Storewide is 25¢!

Tons of Used Clothing at Thrift Store Prices!

The Clothes Shop

507.452.5591 • 416 E. 2nd St. at Winona Volunteer Services Shopping & Donations Hours: M-F 9am-5pm • Sat 10am-1pm • Sun Closed

The Best Under the Sun SM

Free breakfast buffet with fresh hot waffles | Free secure wireless internet | 100% Non Smoking • Seating for up to 20 people in livingroom • Full Kitchen • Full Bath • Queen-sized bedroom and pull out sofa • Ideal for wedding parties, bridal showers, birthdays, family get-togethers, meetings, etc.

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

Try Our Apartment Suite

507-454-6930 1-800-DAYS-INN

Walking distance to Chinese, Sports Bar and Restaurant and Bowling Alley.

Wykoff

SHOOTER’S BAR

113 Gold St. N., Wykoff, MN • 507-352-2281

On & Off Sale Available! Pool • Darts Pizza • Pull Tabs

2014 summer

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. Good Earth Village, a church camp, is five miles from Wykoff. The member-owned Wykoff Grocery Store is a convenient place to stop to load up on supplies for that picnic or camping trip. Have lunch at the Bank Gift Haus & Tea Room or shop in their unique gift store and the Gold Street Pizza is open for dinner. 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 will also enjoy a visit to the jail built in 1913, which is now a unique B&B.

WYKOFF, MN Gateway to Forestville State Park Nearest town to Forestville State Park

(Gas, Food, Beer, Shopping, Fishing & Hunting Licenses, B&B, Tourist Information)

Historic Wykoff Jail Haus B&B

For reservations call (507) 352-4205

SPECIAL EVENTS FOR 2014

September 26•27•28

For more information call 507-352-4205 or 507-352-4011

Ed’s Museum 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Sat. & Sun. or by appointment call (507) 352-4205 Open from Memorial Day weekend until last weekend of September.

Bike Trail Map

Trout Fishing Map

VISIT BLUFF COUNTY.COM AD

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 contrib-

ute 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. Because the chemistry and productivity of these streams Continued on page 87

Trout Fishing Map

Continued from page 86

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 Whitewater, 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

Area Map & Scenic Byway

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.

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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 in 1890 and 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. This highway links with the other Laura Ingalls Wilder sites in Wisconsin and South Dakota.

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Historic Bluff Country National Scenic Byway 88 mile route on Minnesota Highway 16 between Dexter and LaCrescent 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, and lodging opportunities from B&B’s to motels and campgrounds. Visitors also encounter a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, including canoeing, kayaking, hiking, biking, cross country skiing, golfing, horse back 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.

Lake Hendricks

Riceville

Shooting Star Scenic Byway 32 mile drive along Highway 56 between Highway 63 at Chester, Iowa and I-90 This byway is one of the state’s first designated wildflower routes. The Minnesota Department of Transportation and Natural Resources collaborate to manage wildflowers and native grasses along the route. The route passes through rich agricultural regions and small rural towns with historic buildings of national significance, bed and breakfasts, golf courses, swimming pools and city parks. Lake Louise State Park is located on this route.

Area Map & Scenic Byway

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TWIN SPRINGS STATE PARK

Apple Blossom Scenic Byway 1.5 mi S of I-90 to Main St in La Crescent. W to Elm St., follow Cty Highway 29 One of the most beautiful scenic overlooks in Minnesota, this seventeen-mile driving route follows County Highway 29. Accessible from the towns of LaCrescent, Dakota and Nodine, this loop provides spectacular views from bluff tops along the Mississippi River Valley in southeast Minnesota. Apple orchards add a special character to the scenery and many varieties of Minnesota apples are available.

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

Amish Byway Along Highway 52 between Highway 16, Preston and Highway 44 at Prosper The Amish community, estimated at about 100 families, is concentrated in the area around Canton and Harmony and they are frequent users of Highway 52 between Preston and Prosper. Because the Amish drive only slow moving horse drawn buggies or wagons, and Highway 52 has a 55 mile per hour speed limit, the Amish Byway designation is primarily a safety issue. Most of the Amish farmsteads are located off the highway 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.)

Minnesota Area Visitor Centers

Caledonia Chamber of Commerce 120 South Kingston Caledonia, MN 55921 877-439-4893 • 507-725-5477 www.caledoniamn.gov

Houston Area Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 3 Houston, MN 55943 507-896-4668 www.houstonmnchamber.com

Chatfield Tourist Information Center 16 Second Street SE Chatfield, MN 55923 507-867-3966 www.ci.chatfield.mn.us

Lanesboro Area Chamber of Commerce 100 Milwaukee Rd. Lanesboro, MN 55949 800-944-2670 • 507-467-2696 www.lanesboro.com

CITY OF ST. CHARLES 830 Whitewater Ave. St. Charles, MN 55972 507-932-3020 www.stcharlesmn.org

LeRoy Visitor Information 122 W. Main St. LeRoy, MN 55951 507-324-5707 www.visitleroy.com

City of Fountain 104 Main St., P.O. Box 115 Fountain, MN 55935 507-268-4923 www.bluffcountry.com/fountain. html

CITY OF MABEL PO Box 311 Mabel, MN 55954 507-493-5350 www.mabelmn.com

HARMONY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 15 2nd St. NW Harmony, MN 55939 877-251-0606 www.exploreharmony.com

Preston Area CHAMBER OF COMMERCE P.O. Box 123 Preston, MN 55965 507.421.8911 www.prestonmnchamber.com

Spring Valley Chamber of Commerce 201 S. Broadway Spring Valley, MN 55975 507-346-1015

PRESTON AREA TOURISM PO Box 657 Preston, MN 55965 507-765-2100 or 888-845-2100 preston@prestonmn.org

www.springvalleychamberofcommerce.com

Rushford Area Chamber of Commerce 305 S. Elm St. Rushford, MN 55971 507-864-3338 www.rushfordchamber.com

STEWARTVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 417 S. Main St. Stewartville, MN 55976 507-533-6006 www.stewartvillechamber.com

Southeastern MN Historic Bluff Country Convention & Visitors Bureau 303 S. Elm St. Rushford, MN 55971 507-864-2992 800-428-2030 www.bluffcountry.com

WINONA AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 67 Main St. Winona, MN 55987 507-452-2272 www.winonachamber.com

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

Wykoff Tourist Information Center P.O. Box 205 Wykoff, MN 55990 507-352-4205 Visit Winona - Visitor Center 924 Huff St. Winona, MN 55987 800-657-4972 • 507-452-0735 www.visitwinona.com

Burr Oak

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 area and all of the attractions around it.

Country Café & Country Express 12 miles north of Decorah on US Hwy 52 (Country Express, Burr Oak) 563.735.5499 Mon-Sat 6am-9pm Sunday 7am-9pm

Breakfast Served Lunch Sandwiches, Sides & Baskets

Kitchen open until 2pm

Now Serving Pizzas Made to Order! Call Ahead for Dine-in or Take-out until 8pm!

Laura Ingalls Wilder Park and Museum

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.

Charles City

harles City invites you to experience the city’s rich art, history, and community spirit that you will find when you visit. Charles City has some spotlight titles, being a Main Street Iowa community and part of the Silos and Smokestacks National Heritage Area. The community is home of the gasoline-powered tractor and the girlhood home to suffragette Carrie Chapman Catt, who is today considered a prominent historical figure in the context of women’s suffrage. After tragedy struck on May 15, 1968 in the form of one of Iowa’s largest tornados ever recorded, Charles City has rebuilt itself in to a successful, thriving community. The city is one of Iowa’s eight original Cultural & Entertainment Districts, which features original art as the Charles Theatre is still in operation and the Carnegie Library, now known as the Charles City Arts Center, still exists. Charles City also houses a great collection of artwork from local regional and national artists in the public library, including art pieces created by Rembrandt, Picasso, Grant Wood, and Salvador Dali. Pieces are part of what is known as the Mooney Collection. Feel free to join those in Charles City for the summer Party in the Park and July 4th events as the residents roll out the welcome wagon for the celebration. They’ll also welcome you any time of the year!

Clermont

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. Some of the most popular attractions in Clermont include the Clermont Museum, Heritage Farm Park, Lincoln Park, the Larabee Building, and the Mantauk Historic Site. Clermont rests among the rolling hills that were left untouched by the glacial period. Visitors are pleasantly surprised by the scenic terrain that disproves the notion that all of Iowa is flat. The Turkey River flows through the town and is taken advantage of by being utilized for recreational activities such as canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and fishing. The local bike trails offer the chance for bikers, joggers, walkers, and bird watchers, to fully enjoy all that the lush countryside has to of f e r. During the winter, cross country skiers and snow shoers get their chance to trek the trail. During the winter months is also a prime

change to enjoy the outdoors on a vast, expansive network of snowmobile trails. Hunting draws many 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 shot for hunting, but photographers capture the wildlife too. Clermont was founded in 1949 and has become a historic town with eight listings on the National Register of Historic Places.

MontaukClermont, Historic Site Iowa

Home of Iowa’s 12th governor, William Larrabee and Anna Larrabee, his wife. Enjoy a guided tour to see and hear how the Larrabee family furnished and maintained this 1874 vintage brick and natural limestone mansion for more than 100 years. All the furnishings are original to the house. Owned and preserved by the State Historical Society of Iowa. Montauk is on the National Register of Historic Places and is designated a State Preserve.

Memorial Day thru Labor Day Daily, noon to 4pm Labor Day thru October 31 Fri, Sat and Sun Noon to 4 or by group appointment Contact info: Wade Schott 563-423-7173; email: montauk@acegroup.cc

Cresco

resco, the county seat, is the largest of the communities in Howard County. Cresco is derived from the Latin term meaning “I Grow.” This growth has been evident since June 12, 1866, when Augustus Beadle had the land surveyed and platted. Within six months of the town’s formation, 1,000 people called Cresco home. The city population doubled by 1890 and today Cresco has a population of roughly 4,000. The original catalyst for Cresco’s growth was the emergence of the railroad. Horace Barber had first claim to the land Cresco now rests on in 1856. This area became known as Shook’s Grove following M.L. Shook’s purchase of the land. It was not until 1866 that Augustus Beadle finally gained ownership of this land. After Beadle gained control of the property he persuaded the railroad to build through Cresco. The railroad acted as the foundation which eventually raised Cresco to a central position in the county. It even forced the three neighboring communities of New Oregon, Howard Center and Vernon Springs to pack up buildings and all and move to the newly established hub. Rail service through Cresco and Howard County ended in 1983 with the tracks removed the following year. All that was left was an engine, box car, flatbed and caboose purchased from the Milwaukee Road on display in Beadle Park. Now in 2007, there is a new rebirth. The train is currently under renovation and will be restored to its original grace and beauty for more generations to enjoy. Twenty-two miles of the old railroad bed has recently been paved as part of the Prairie Continued on page 93

Experience

Life As It Should Be

Lived

Visit

Bluff Country

www.visitbluffcountry.com

Cresco

Continued from page 92

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Farmer Recreational Trail connecting the communities of Cresco, Ridgeway and Calmar. Now you and your family can ride your bikes or stroll along the same trail that brought the earliest settlers to Howard County. Cresco is also known as the boyhood home of Dr. Norman Borlaug. Borlaug grew up on a farm about 12 miles southwest of Cresco. He graduated from Cresco High School in 1932. Dr. Borlaug, 1970 Nobel Peace Prize and Medal of Freedom winner, most recently received a Congressional Gold Medal from the President of the United States in the fall of 2007. Only four other people in the entire world have received all three honors. Dr. Borlaug has worked tirelessly around the world developing improved strains of food grains and training thousands of scientists and small land owners. His scientific and humanitarian contributions have led the way in the fight against malnutrition and starvation. He is also known as the “Father of the Green Revolution”. The Norman Borlaug Heritage Foundation, a non-profit corporation formed in 2000, is dedicated to promoting education programs and projects which reflect the lifetime achievements and philosophy of Dr. Norman Borlaug. Cresco is home to Ellen Church, the first stewardess, and credited with starting the flight attendant industry by convincing Boeing Airlines that having nurses on board would help the airline industry convince the public that it was safe to fly. Cresco is also home to five admirals and the Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame. Stop by the Cresco Area Chamber of Commerce or call us at 563-547-3434 for more information on the rich heritage and history of the Cresco area.

Cresco MN

Northeast Iowa’s

IA IL

BLUFF COUNTRY

www.visitiowa.org

Northeast Iowa is a refreshing escape that can be filled with outdoor excursions, spectacular attractions and fine dining.

YOU’LL LOVE THE VIEW FROM HERE! Allamakee County

Buchanan County

• Effigy Mounds National Monument-Iowa’s only National Park! • Mount Hosmer-scenic park overlooking the Mighty Mississippi River and Black Hawk Bridge • Yellow River State Forest • Great River Road & Driftless Area Scenic Byways • Allamakee County Courthouse Museum and Historical Society

• Frank Lloyd Wright - designed home at Cedar Rock • Heartland Acres Agribition Center • Wapsipinicon River Water Trail • Barn Quilt tours • The Historic Train Depot

www.allamakeecounty.com 800-824-1424

Clayton County

www.claytoncountyiowa.com 800-488-7572

• Pikes Peak State Park highest bluff on the Mississippi River • Home of the World’s Largest Strawberry • River Bluff Scenic Byway, American Byway & Great River Road • Bicycle the Mississippi River Trail • Awarded as “Iowa Great Places” Elkader, McGregor, Guttenberg, Marquette

www.growbuchanan.com/tourism.htm 800-506-4470

Fayette County

www.fayettecountyia.com 800-477-5073

• Best trout fishing west of the Mississippi • Tube, canoe or kayak the Turkey River • Premiere campgrounds • Walking and biking trails throughout the county • River Bluffs Scenic Byway

Chickasaw County

www.chickasawtourism.com 641-394-2021

• Historic Little Brown Church in the Vale • Unique bed and breakfasts in rural locations • Carnegie Cultural Center • Go on a buffalo hunt • Visit vineyard and family winery

Howard County

www.howard-county.com 563-547-3434

• Home of Norman Borlaug • Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame • Only County-Wide Farmers Market in Iowa • Home of Ellen Church, World’s First Stewardess • Trails for all seasons (bike, mountain, ski, snowmobile)

Winneshiek County www.visitdecorah.com 800-463-4692

• #1 Pizza in Iowa, named by USA Today • Annual Nordic Fest • #1 and #2 top fishing streams in Iowa • Decorah’s famous Eagle Cam • Seed Savers Heritage Farm

Cresco

JUST FOR HER

Stop in while you’re in Cresco & Check out our Large Selection of

Liquors, Beers & Wines Call us to pack your coolers with Beer, Wine & Liquor!

All at GREAT Low Prices! Check out our Complete Line of Party Supplies, Gag Gifts, Novelty Items & Souvenirs!

We’ve got T-Shirts, Jackets & Collectibles too! Purses j Scarves Jewelry j Footwear Gourmet coffees and more Designer Perfume Clothing j Home decor Fresh flowers & plants Located 1 mile west of Cresco on Hwy. 9 Open Tuesday-Friday 10am-5pm • Saturday 10am-3pm

! s U e e S e Com

Cresco

Liquor Store 563-547-3900 • HWY. 9 E • Cresco, IA Regular Hours: Mon-Thur 9am-8pm Fri-Sat 9am-9pm Sun CLOSED • Norman Borlaug Boyhood Home • Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame • Over 40 unique Bronze Statues • Multiple Full-Service Campgrounds • Three Scenic and Challenging Golf Courses

Info: 563-547-3434 • Web: howard-county.com • Web: crescochamber.com

Decorah Iowa’s Newest Recreational Trail!

DECORAH, 11 miles of fun now open IOWA in Decorah, Iowa . . .

11 miles of fun NOW OPEN!

With so much to enjoy along the way . . . • • • •

Decorah’s Famous Eagles Nest Trout fishing Truly unique art sculptures Scenic bluffs and countryside

• • • •

Check it out!

Vibrant downtown & shopping Top-notch restaurants Luxurious hotels & B&Bs Fascinating Museums

We’ve got great weekday lodging specials!

favorIte Ways to “fall” In love WIth Decorah

Go for a stroll

Visit an orchard

www.visitdecorah.com | 800.463.4692

Pick a pumpkin

Become an art lover

Ask for our free Visitor’s Guide!

Decorah

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, visitors to the area find incomparable scenic beauty, 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 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 more than eight distinctive bed and breakfasts, the lovingly restored Hotel Winneshiek, and other well appointed 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 Winnishiek 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. Luther College brings world-renowned acts to the area through its acclaimed Center Stage series. In all these attractions and events lure thousands of visitors each year. For more information about these events, lodging, area history and more, call 800-463-4692 or visit the area’s web site at www.decoraharea.com

Don Jose Mexican Family Restaurant

201 E. Water Street • Decorah, IA • (563) 382-6052 Hours: Sun-Thurs 11am-9:30pm • Friday & Saturday 11am-10:30pm

Decorah

Sharing heirloom seeds

Seed Savers Exchange is a non-profit, member-supported organization saving the world’s diverse, but endangered, garden heritage for future generations by building a network of people committed to collecting, conserving and sharing heirloom seeds and plants. Known worldwide, this 890 acre heritage farm is working to maintain over 25,000 vegetable varieties. Seed Savers Exchange is the largest nongovernmental seed bank in the United States. Visitors enjoy display gardens, trial gardens and a children’s garden. You may also wander through an extensive 8-mile trail system or select heritage garden seeds, books and gifts at the garden shop. Open April - December. Call for hours 563-382-5990. Or, visit us at www.seedsavers.org.

Blue Heron Knittery 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-Fri 11am-5pm Sat 10am-4pm

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

Decorah

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 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 NorweContinued on page 100

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Decorah Continued from page 99

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gian. 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. Before my departure, I took a stroll through the gift shop. It would be the perfect place to buy a gift for your favorite Norwegian, because it is chock-full of interesting knick-knacks, imported foods, Norwegian and English reading material, and traditional Scandinavian sweaters. After learning so much about Norway and its immigrants, I took on a new appreciation for my Norwegian ancestors: not only did they give me the opportunity to live in America, but instilled in me an unconditional love for lefse. What? Vesterheim Museum Where? On West Water Street in Decorah, Iowa, which is about 30 miles south of Preston on Hwy 52 How much? Museum admission and included outdoor tour is $7 for adults and $5 for children and seniors Be sure to check out: The Norwegian folk art exhibition, which is operated by the museum and is located just up the block.

128 W. Water St., Decorah, IA 563.382.9829 Shoes for the entire family! These brands available...

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Decorah

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Enjoy a fun, friendly wine experience amidst the beautiful, rolling hills of Northeast Iowa!

Voted “Best Fruit Wine” At The Mid America Wine Contest Wine Tasting • Outdoor Seating Gift Shop • Party Room

1798 Old Stage Road Decorah, IA 52101

1966 337th St., Decorah, IA www.wwwinery.com • 563-735-5809 Hrs: Wed - Sat 10am-5pm Sun 12:30-5pm

SATTRE STORE

EST. 1892 One of the few remaining Country General Stores.

GROCERY & ANTIQUES 3162 River Rd.,Decorah, IA 13 miles NE of Decorah

• Home Baking & Sandwiches to go • Locker Meats & Cheese Curds • Large Variety of Antiques & Fun-finds Culvers of Decorah 904 Short St, Decorah, Iowa 563-382-5120

All at affordable prices! Mon-Sat 8am-8pm Most Sundays Noon-5pm Call to be sure 563-546-7910

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Elkader

ettlers first traveled to Elkader in the 1830s seeking a place of rich, fertile farmland and an abundant water source, both which would contribute to a potential for commerce. Since then, the heritage and vision of Elkader’s settlers are still alive and thriving. Shopping in the historic downtown district, walking or biking on Elkader local trails, or canoeing on the Turkey River, which in fact runs right through the heart of Elkader, all help to satisfy every age and interest of the visitors of Elkader. Guests can enjoy the amenities, charm, and uniqueness that can be found in the community’s bed & breakfasts. Alternatively, those who are nature enthusiasts may choose to enjoy the two campgrounds in town. There’s no concern over visitors going hungry. In addition to the typical American-type restaurant, Elkader offers a wide spectrum of dining choices including a sports bar and grill, a bistro, an Irish Pub with authentic cuisine, and northeast Iowa’s only Mediterranean restaurant. After your meal, you may want to stop by one of the up-tot he-minute boutiques that include a wide variety of antiques.

The 1903 opera house offers live entertainment, or films can be watched in the digital, 3-D cinema. History buffs can immerse themselves in Elkader’s history as nine locations are on the National Historic Register. The first-class museum in town is home to many artifacts that date further than local history. Also, Elkader has been recognized by the National Historic Preservation Trust and the National Main Street Center as a winner of the “Great American Main Street Award” and a State of Iowa “Spirit of Main Street Award”. In the past, it has also been designated as one of Iowa’s “Great Places”. Before visiting Elkader’s charming, picturesque area in person, you may want to plan your visit by visiting www. elkader-iowa.com as there’s so much to do and see.

ore l p x E

, BluffHistoric Country visitbluffcountry.com

, TURKEY RIVER MALL ANTIQUES • GIFTS • COLLECTIBLES

102 S Main St., Elkader, IA 52043 • 563-245-3995 www.turkeyrivermall.com

Antiques, Primitives, Collectibles and Gifts Books, new and used for children & adults. Good quality name brand clothing. 1897 Renovated Hotel Building Ask about the

14,000 Sq. Ft. of purely unique shopping er yone g for Ev in th e m o sures - S of Trea 4 Floors

resident Ghost.

Hrs: 9am-5pm Mon-Sat; Noon-5pm Sun • Closed Easter, Thanksgiving & Christmas

Elma

A great place to visit.......a better place to live!

Elma, Iowa

We may be a small, bedroom town, but just look at what we have to offer, all within 30 miles of 4 county seats! Affordable Family Housing • NEW 24-Hour Wellness Center including a sauna • Recreational Trail • Golf Course & Campground • Bowling Alley with Fall Leagues • Early Childhood Center • PreSchool Program • Summer Wisdom & Wellness Kid’s Program & Fall/Winter Kid’s Skating Program • Summer Adult Mixed Slow Pitch Ball League and Youth Ball Program • Public Library • Active Community Groups & Several Churches • Restaurants & Taverns • Large City Park with Play Equipment, Historic Covered Grandstand & Ball Diamond as well as Newer Handicap-Accessible Restrooms • Trailhead Visitor’s Center • 2 Museums • Recently Renovated Community Hall • Award-Winning Meat Locker with Deli, Grocery & Liquor Sales • 2 gas stations; one with Repair Services & 24-hour Pay at Pump and another one with Convenience Store, Food & DVD Rental • 2 Car Washes/1 Truck Wash • Community Bank with 24-hour ATM • Locally-Owned Lumberyard • Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Business • Discount Grocery Store • AG Services Business with Fuels • Chiropractic, Massage & Midwife Services • Nursing Home & Assisted Living Facility with Physical Therapy Services • Post Office • Feed Stores • Funeral Home • Cement Plant • Insurance Agencies • Veterinary Services • Automotive Repair • Mennonite Businesses including dozens of Greenhouses & Auction Site, Bulk Goods Store, Dry Goods Store, Hardware Store, Concrete Construction Company, Bicycle Repair, Home-Made Candies, Furniture/Woodworking and more!

Old Roundhouse Trail Days Our annual town celebration is held the 3rd weekend in July

2014 dates are July 18th & 19th with live music by Boogie & the Yo-Yo’z

To learn more about Elma, Iowa visit our website at www.elmaia.com or at www.facebook.com/ElmaIowa Trail Days Complete Schedule of Events will be posted at above sites in June 2014

Ad Sponsored by: The BRIDGE Organization, Inc.

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Elma

lma is a vibrant community with endless opportunities! Located in southwest Howard County, Elma is just seven miles west of US Highway 63 and is home to key agricultural businesses that are a significant component of Howard County’s rural economy. The ever-present hometown spirit and constant drive to make Elma the “best little bedroom community around” is evident among residents, businesses, the many active organizations, and the Mennonite clusters that dot our landscape. Beautiful scenery and wide-open spaces allow many recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike including a picturesque nine-hole golf course, well maintained city park and new 24-hour wellness center. Additionally, outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the Old Roundhouse Recreational Trail, which extends north, follows the Little Wapsipinicon River and runs along the edge of Lylah’s Marsh & Park. Lylah’s Marsh is a county-maintained game management area. It serves as home to a 140-acre wildlife area containing a 60-acre man-made marsh which provides fishing as well as

excellent nesting and winter cover for wildlife while attracting an abundance of migratory waterfowl and upland game species. Facilities at Lylah’s Marsh include an open picnic area, boat ramp and primitive restroom. Old Roundhouse Trail Days is the second festival of the year for Howard County and Elma hosts this event annually the third weekend in July with the City and community groups pulling together to provide fun for everyone. The event offers a wide array of entertainment including a parade, fireworks, live music, ball games, mud volleyball, fireman’s combat challenge, flea markets, 5k walk/run and tractor pull as well as delicious foods & a beverage garden. Get Cash 24-Hours A Day With Our Convenient ATM! Your community bank offering quality and professional financial services in a warm friendly environment.

Fort Atkinson

RECREATIONAL TRAILS • NATURE PRESERVES

Lake!

•

FISHING

Spend Your Summer at the

Visit us at

www.winneshiekwild.com

FISHING

•

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

•

CAMPING

Lake Meyer Park & Campground

CANOEING

•

• A Melodrama presented by the 38 Annual Country Road Players • 1840’s Military Camp • Cannon Drills Fort Atkinson, Iowa • 5K Walk/Run on Saturday September 27 & 28, 2014 • Conestoga Wagon • Tepees & Lodges Saturday 9:30-4:30 • Sunday 9-3:30 • Hunters • Trappers • Blacksmith No Admission Charge - Free Parking - Bring the Family! • Trade Blankets • Potter • Scrimshaw Artist • Ropemaker For info email fortatkinsoniowarendezvous@gmail.com Check our Facebook page at Fort Atkinson Iowa Rendezvous • Basketmaking • Spinning Sponsored by the Fort Atkinson Community & the Iowa DNR • Period Instruments & Music • 1840’s Kids Games • Skillet Throw • Cooking Contest • Flint & Steel Contest • And So Much More! th

Elma, IA • (641)393-2301 • www.psbiowa.com

Come experience what makes Elma a Great Place to Visit and a Better Place to Live!

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-akind 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, officer’s 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

Fredericksburg Tuesday,

June 10

through Wednesday,

June 11th

2014

Fredericksburg, Iowa Midway, Food Stands & Activities!

COMEdIAN Jared Mauck

FIREWORKS Tuesday Night

Softball, 5K/Run/Walk, Bingo, Poker and more!

Main Entertainment

For more information go to... www.facebook.com/pages/ Fredericksburg-dairy-days

FROELICH 1890 VILLAGE MUSEUM Home of John Froelich’s invention of the first gasoline tractor. Tour Highlights: •1891 General Store & Post Office •Replicas of Froelich’s 1st tractor •1866 One Room School •Blacksmith Shop & Warehouse •Railroad Depot & Train cars •Barn & Semi building

563-536-2841 • 563-880-1525 24397 Froelich Road, Froelich, IA froelichtractor1892@yahoo.com

www.froelichtractor.com Open May 10 - Sept 28 & 1st two weekends in Oct. Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 11am-5pm

PARAdE

Wednesday

105

he small town of Fredericksburg, Iowa is home to six unique parks, each offering relaxing space for visitors to enjoy the great outdoors. Some have access to the Plum Creek Bike & Nature Trail. The trail will take you through picturesque scenery including local corn and bean fields, past the Plum Creek, and through wooded areas. With opportunities to stop at the City Park or Prestein Park, bikers, hikers, and casual walkers will have the chance to rest under the maple trees or walk through the pine trees as you take in the area’s natural surroundings. Fredericksburg has opportunities for recreation that include the Meinerz Dairyland Pool, the Plum Creek Golf Course, the local tennis courts, or the Upham Memorial Library. You’ll find a share of retail shops in Fredericksburg, ranging in everything from a shoe shop to crafts and even a boutique. And don’t forget to treat yourself at the Dresden Bakery on Main Street! In 2014 Fredericksburg’s Dairy Days will reach a milestone of 90 years, an annual celebration that has been around since 1924. Dairy Days celebrates the area’s heritage in addition to the love residents and visitors have for the community. Those in Fredericksburg will greet you with their coined motto, “Welcome to Fredericksburg, Iowa! A place to visit, a place to live, a place to call home...”

Froelich

ust when you thought they were gone, you can find and enjoy the “Good Old Days” in Froelich, Iowa! The community is home to the 1890s Village Museum that houses John Froelich’s invention of the first gasoline propelled tractor of 1892. Also, the Waterloo Gasoline Engine Company was formed, which was later bought by the John Deere Tractor Company in 1918. Other components include the Iron Clad Store, the Train Depot, Blacksmith Shop, and 1866 Schoohouse. In operation six days of the week, the museum is open May through September, as well as the first two weekends in October. Join the town for the “Fall-Der-All” celebration each year in late September for a weekend of fun including tours, a tractor pull, old-time demonstrations that will take you the past, and food & fun for everyone! The Froelich Foundation takes great pride in maintaining the rich history in the village. Stop by Froelich to take advantage and uncover the area’s great history!

Lime Springs

UPCOMING EVENTS

May 10: Mother’s Day Luncheon June 7: Buckwheat Pancakes & Garage Sale Day June 15: Father’s Day Chicken Barbeque December 7: Christmas in Lime Springs

Springs has to offer! SWEET CORN DAYS AUGUST

Come see what Lime

8-10, 2014

106

FREE Street Dance Friday: Luke N Bob Texas Saturday: Next 2 Nothing FREE Sweet Corn Sunday FREE Watermelon FREE Fun All Weekend!

Johnson Comfort Systems, Inc.

Town & Country Locker & Grocery

Antiques • Collectibles Records • Stuff

More than 1,110 successful installations! Geothermal heating & cooling Uponor Radiant Floor Heat

• Full service meat locker! • Custom cut & wrap! • Specialty meats available! • Grocery Store • Sub Sandwiches, & Party Trays Available

Curt’s Hometown General Store

Stop in or give us a call at 563-566-2357 120 Willard St. Lime Springs, IA

Open Fri, Sat, Sun 9am-5pm Year Round, Other times by Appointment

“The Geothermal Experts”

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

’

KCD s 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

105 Willard St. Lime Springs, IA Curt Tienter 507.273.1050

Lime Springs

We would like to thank everyone for their photo submissions!

Bob Smock Sheena Tollefson Jana Olson Barb Jeffers Randi Mehus Joni Mehus Gabrielle Shupe Lee Dyreson Liberty Onsager Nargiza Kanybek Kyzy Amanda McCabe

FR EE

FREE

s G ui de

FREE

Thanks to the photographers who were feautured throughout the 2014-2015 Visitor’s Guide!

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ocated just north of New Hampton, Iowa on US Highway 63, Lime Springs is one of the area’s small towns that offer sights of natural beauty, an abundance of wildlife, and welcoming residents. Whether you are looking for a place for business or recreation, Lime Springs welcomes you for either. With only a population of 500, Lime Springs still offers many large city amenities. A doctor’s office, a library, a dentist, and even a swimming pool contribute to the great quality of life you’ll find in Lime Springs. For those interested in genealogy and history, Lime Springs carries with it strong ties to Welsh ancestors. Don’t forget to stop by Lime Springs the second full weekend in August for Sweet Corn Days as the town celebrates the Midwestern staple crop!

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Iowa Area Visitor Centers Allamakee County 101 W. Main St Waukon, IA 52172 563-568-2624 800-824-1424 www.allamakeecounty.com

Clermont Chamber of Commerce 4355 Ferguson Drive Suite 150 Cincinnati, OH 45245 P: 513.576.5000

Burr Oak Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum 3603 236th Ave, Burr Oak, IA 52101 563-735-5916 www.lauraingallswilder.us

Cresco Chamber of Commerce 101 2nd Ave., SW Cresco, IA 52136 563-547-3434 www.crescochamber.com

CHARLES CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 401 N. Main St. Charles City, IA 50616 641-228-4234 www.charlescitychamber.com

Decorah Chamber of Commerce / Winneshiek county convention & visitors bureau 507 West Water Street Decorah, IA 52101 563-463-4692 800-463-4692 www.decoraharea.com www.visitdecorah.com

Chickasaw County tourism Nashua, IA 50658 641-435-4187 www.chickasawtrails.com Clayton County development Group 200 E. Bridge St. Elkader, IA 52043 800-488-7572 www.claytoncountyiowa.com

Elkader Chamber of Commerce 207 N. Main Elkader, IA 52043 563-245-2857 866-334-2857 www.elkader-iowa.com Fayette County Tourism Center SW Corner Hwys 150 & 93 Fayette, IA 52142 800-789-4447 • 563-425-4447 www.fayettecountyia.com

Fort Atkinson Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center 244 North Main Street Fort Atkinson, WI 53538 (920)563-3210 Howard County Economic Development 101 2nd Ave. SW Cresco, IA 52136 563-547-3434 www.howard-county.com

Oelwein Chamber & Area Development 25 West Charles St. Oelwein, IA 50662 Phone 319-283-1105 Fax 319-283-2890 E-mail us:ocad@oelwein.com Osage Chamber of Commerce 808 Main Street Osage, IA 50461 641-732-3163 www.osagechamber.com

Lansing Area Chamber of Commerce 340 Main St. Lansing, IA 52151 563-538-4544 www.lansingiowa.com

RICEVILLE AREA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 641-985-2442 641-985-4030 www.riceville.govoffice2.com www.wgwltrail.com

Lime Springs 563-566-4405 www.limesprings.com

St. Ansgar city hall 111 So. Mitchell St. Ansgar, IA 50472 641-736-4444 www.saintansgar.net or www.stansgar.org

McGregor-Marquette Chamber of Commerce 146 Main St. Mcgregor, IA 52157 800-896-0910 • 563-873-2186 www.mcgreg-marq.org

WAUKON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 101 W. Main St. Waukon, IA 52172

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Marquette/McGregor

arquette, formerly North McGregor, was first discovered June 17, 1673, by Father Marquette & Joliet. In October 1800, a land grant was given to Basil Giard, in turn known as the Giard Tract. It was one of the three Spanish land grants in what is now Iowa. Marquette was born from the need of a supply point for the proposed railroad that would be passing through the valley. In 1920, Marquette was the largest railroad terminus in Iowa and employed over 400 at the yards. It was the first all-rail route between Chicago and the Twin Cities. Marquette was incorporated May 12, 1874. Much of the town and the railroad were destroyed during disastrous floods in 1896 and 1916. The railroad pontoon bridge was built in 1860. It was discontinued in 1961 due to expensive maintenance fees. The pontoon bridge was dismantled and taken to La Crosse, Wisconsin. The last passenger trains stopped at Marquette in January 1960. This ended 93 years of passenger service to Marquette. A car suspension bridge crossing the Mississippi River, connecting Wisconsin and Iowa, was built in 1932. At the time, it was the only suspension bridge crossing the Mississippi River. The suspension bridge was dismantled in 1975, after the new Marquette-Joliet bridge was completed in November of 1974. Marquette boasts a population of 421 as of the 2000 census and continues to grow and prosper. The beauty and charm of the town, along with the Mississippi River,

has made Marquette a “must see” stop as travelers make their way along the Great River Road Highway that runs directly through the area. Marquette is home to many great attractions including the Depot Museum, a casino, winery, charming specialty and antique shops and great spa and personal training facilities. McGregor sprouted from a ferry boat landing that Alexander MacGregor and Thomas Burnett established in 1837. This landing eventually grew into one of the most important shipping depots west of Chicago. It was 1847 when MacGregor hired a surveyor to plot out a six-block area which later became known as McGregor upon its incorporation in 1857. Bits of history, such as its rapid growth as Gateway to the West; floods; fires; the story of how the famous Ringling Brothers Circus had its beginning in McGregor back yards; a visit from Jesse James on the Moody farm south of town; the colorful story of Diamond Jo Reynolds, whose steamboat shipping office still stands in McGregor and is listed in the National Historic Register; business tycoon, credited today with being one of northeast Iowa’s finest examples of 19th century architecture; and many other stories, make McGregor unique in historical lore. Today, more than 871 people reside in McGregor. Visitors and residents enjoy a host of great antique and specialty shops, quaint bed & breakfasts, unique restaurants, unlimited river recreation, Pikes Peak State Park, Spook Cave & Campground.

Eagles Landing Winery

Grumpster’s

•Rosé Wine of the Year •Free Wine Tasting •Monthly Events •Wine Garden •Fun Gift Shop

Log Cabin Getaway “No longer Iowa’s Best Kept Secret”

Cozy Log Cabins Nestled in the Mississippi River Valley woods surrounding McGregor, IA

Open All Year Long! 3 beautiful cabins to choose from Your Hosts: Terry & Juanita Lang

563-873-3767 535 Ash Street • McGregor, IA www.grumpsterslogcabins.com

Open Daily 10am-5pm 127 North St., Marquette, IA 563-873-2509 www.eagleslandingwinery.com

ore l p x E

, BluffHistoric Country visitbluffcountry.com

Nashua

ashua, a pretty little town, has a beautiful lake to swim, boat or fish in, great parks for camping and picnicking, festivals, and the Big Four Fair. “This is a prosperous and important town near the southwest corner of the county. It is situated in a bend of the Cedar River, directly opposite the confluence of the Little Cedar, and at the foot or south end of the heaviest body of timber in Chickasaw County. The town plat lies in the river valley on dry ground sufficiently high enough to be above the reach of floods with a gentle inclination eastward. It is a beautiful location, which is thoroughly protected from high winds in every direction by high ground covered with timber. The Cedar River affords very valuable and excellent water power on the north side, just above the railroad bridge, which is occupied by one of the largest and best flouring mills in northern Iowa.” Source: A.T. Andreas Illustrated Historical Atlas of the State of Iowa. 1875 Quotation and maps courtesy of IAGenweb.org The early history of Nashua began with the establishment of the first business on the west bank of the Cedar River and the building of a log cabin by John Hall in 1854 and by 1856, the town was laid out. The first newspaper was published May 22, 1867 and reported that at that time Nashua had good water power from a dam across the river, excellent stands of timber, a brick yard, and a woolen factory was being organized. The historic Little Brown Church in the Vale, made famous by a song of the same name, is located two miles outside of town and was dedicated December 29, 1864. William Pitt, a music teacher and composer of the famous song, was inspired earlier by the wooded spot where the church was later built. The song was unbeknownst to the

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builders of the church, who painted the church brown because the Ohio Mineral Paint, a great wood protector, was the cheapest paint available. Near the Little Brown Church is the Bradford Pioneer Museum, in the old town of Bradford. When the railroad was built through Nashua and New Hampton, Bradford lost its bustling population. “In tribute to those early pioneers, the Bradford Pioneer Museum shows a glimpse of what it was like to live in the area at the time with period buildings and exhibits. Every year in May, they sponsor a Civil War re-enactment called the “Battle of Bradford”. It is an enjoyable stroll through the village and many of the buildings are open during the summer for touring” From the Nashua website. Info: 641-435-4156 or www.nashua-iowa.com

Battle of Old Bradford Civil War Reenactment May 17-18, 2014 • 9am-5pm Old Bradford Pioneer Village Museum & Gift Shop Open May 1-Oct. 1, 2014 Hours: M-Sat 9-5, Sun 1-5 Now Handicapped Accessible 2729 Cheyenne Ave. • Nashua, IA 50658 641.435.2567

Oelwein

elcome to Oelwein, the great melting pot of diversity and culture in northeastern Iowa! Here you can expect to pick up on the importance of the railroad in Oelwein’s history. As the railroad was introduced, many people from numerous cultures and countries were drawn to this “hub” city. Those associated with the rail lines came to the city to take advantage of the repair shops located in Oelwein. This history has molded the town into what it is today. Oelwein’s annual events are sure to entertain everyone who visits. They include: Heritage Days the third weekend of August, a farmers’ market Mondays and Fridays from

Est. 1976

One of a Kind

Items for home & for gifts

Ceramics • Bisque • Doilies • Wood Decor • Quilted Pieces • Needlework • Florals • Metal & Woodworking Items Custom Orders Welcome • The Disciple’s Cross Jewelry 100% Crafted in NE Iowa! • New Crafters Welcome Co-Sponsor of the 14th Creative Cut-Ups Quilt Show August 16-17

3 E Charles ST • Oelwein, IA • 319.283.1475

mid-May through mid-October, Friday Night Downtown Park’n the third Friday of each summer month, Celebration Oelwein on June 7, 2014, Fall Fling September 27, 2014, and Olde Tyme Christmas December 6-7, 2014. Also come any time of the year to enjoy the town’s attractions that include the Oelwein City Park and Campground, offering boating, fishing, trails, playground equipment, and picnic area, the Oelwein Aquatic Center, the Hub City Heritage Railway Museum, and the Oelwein Area Historical Society Museum. And be sure to take the Barn Quilt Tour of more than 60 traditional barns, corn cribs, and other buildings located in and around Fayette County with an interesting variety of quilt patterns. Split into three self-guided driving tours, these tours will allow you to see some of the area’s iconic midwestern sites and scenes.

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Osage

Shopping Dining Events Recreation Nature Osage Chamber of Commerce 641-732-3163 â&#x20AC;˘ osagechamber.com

Osage

Antique Shops & More Osage, IA

v ela n d leTurret

The

618 Main Street, Osage, IA

641.832.2448

• Many Antiques • • Primitives • • Collectibles! • Open 7 days a week M-Sat 11 to 5 • Sun 12 to 4

Vogue & Vintage

Antiques, VintAge & new Home Accents 721 Main Street, Osage, IA 50461 • 712.346.8475 Hrs Tue-Sat 9-5 • Sun & Mon by chance or appointment

731 Main Street Osage, IA 50461

641-732-3006 Tuesday - Saturday 9am-5pm

Antiques and numerous pieces of antique furniture

iceville, Iowa is a community of roughly 900. It is also 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/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 thousands of 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 and enjoying the great outdoors. In close proximity are recreational trails, an added feature of the area. Visitors have access to stay at 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 nature’s beauty including wildflowers, prairie grasses and a butterfly garden. Also along the way, you’ll observe a number of Amish settlements. 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 to live in. The Riceville Golf Course brings a challenge to any golfer. The 9-hole course has been around for more than 40 years and is taken advantage of by many. Each year the Wapsi Day Festival takes place and is packed with entertaining activities and performances. For more information visit www. riceville.govoffice2.com or call 641-985-2367.

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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 on the very west edge of bluff country in Mitchell County, Iowa. Mitchell County, with its population of just over 10,000, is where industry and recreation coincide at the perfect balance. Traveling west on Highway 9 in Mitchell County, you’ll come across Osage, where Highway 9 and Highway 218 intersect. Osage, known as the city of Maples, holds its title because of Doctor S.B. Chase who helped line the streets with maple trees like in his hometown of Portland, Maine. Chase would even help those who could not buy trees by giving them trees and helping them with the planting process. The glorious autumn colors of the maples today are annual tribute to this pioneer, his hard work, and his generosity. Osage is also the seat of Mitchell County, home to the Mitchell County Courthouse, which is one of the oldest original courthouses in the state of Iowa. The courthouse is still in use and is on the historic registry. What makes Osage unique is that within the city resides the Sock Monkey sock, manufactured by Fox River Mills, the Milkhouse Candle Company, and Watts Theatre, which was listed as one of the top 10 cinemas in USA Today in 2006. Recently, Osage has also acquired the Cedar River Complex (CRC), which includes a wellness center, indoor aquatic center, the Mitchell County Historical Museum, and a 600 seat auditorium. The initials of this structure could just as well stand for Communities, Recreation, and Culture, as the CRC improves the quality of life for those who live less than an hour away. Also, visitors from great distances are brought to North Iowa to take advantage of what Osage and other surrounding communities have to offer.

Riceville

More than hanging out Service • Selection • Savings

Rap

Gansen auto & RV sales, Inc. www.gaarv.us • 641-985-2034 Mon-Fri 8am-6pm • Sat 8am-3pm

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Riceville

of Lake Hendricks & Campground Home Wapsi-Great Western Line Bike Trail

Riceville Country Club & Golf Course

RICEVILLE

MITCHELL/HOWARD COUNTIES, IOWA

Riceville is a community of 785 people and is located in both Howard and Mitchell Counties. Situated on Highway 9, fifteen miles from Highway 63, and fourteen miles from Highway 218, Riceville is an important hub of northeast Iowa. 2014 CaLendaR of evenTs Fun Run/Walk • May 10th

Cancer benefit - approximately 2 miles

Farmers’ Market May to September • Saturday 9-11:30am

Memorial Day Observance • May 26th Parade, Patriotic Music, 280+ Flag Display, Soup & Salad Luncheon

Golf Cart Rides/Pie Sunday • June 1St & September 7th WGWL Trial Welcome Center

PtO Garage Sale • June 5 & 6th AG Day Celebration • June 6th Supper in the Park , Toad, frog, and turtle races, Prizes and drawings

Fireworks over Lake hendricks • July 4th Lake Hendricks

Wapsipinicon Festival • August 2

5-K Run, Community Pancake Breakfast, Grand Parade, Food Vendors, Amusements for kids and adults, Car Show, State Sanctioned Kids Pedal Tractor Pull, Dance, Beer Garden

Secret Santa Shop • December 5th & 6th Breakfast with Santa • December 6th Santa, Breakfast, Crafts, Gifts Riceville Historic Hotel • Golf Course • Camping • Swimming • Canoeing and Fishing at Lake Hendricks Butterfly Garden • Hard Surface Bike Trail • City Park • Riceville Farmers’ Markets • Amish & Mennonite Greenhouses/Crafts

641.985.4030 • www.riceville.govoffice2.com • www.wgwltrail.com

St. Ansgar

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St. Ansgar

F ind Us on Facebook!

Garden Spot of Iowa

stansgarcommunitycha mber

2014 Calendar of Events Cribbage Tournament

March 15th At the Rescue Mtg. Room. Contact Gary Robertson 641-713-2095

500 Tournament

Salon 318

www.salon318.com • 641-713-4022 For a full day of relaxation, a new hairstyle or a quick manicure Hand-Thrown Pottery & Original Artwork

Old Crow Artisan Gallery

112 S. School St. • 641-736-4960 OldCrowArtisanGallery • Margie Kline

March 22nd At the Rescue Mtg. Room. Contact Gary Robertson 641-713-2095

City-Wide Rummage Sales

Home Sweet Home

homesweethomesta • 641-713-4698 home Decor, Clothing Boutique, Unique Finds

April 26th Maps available at local businesses

Oatmeal Days

June 21st 2 x 4 Bike Ride (10, 25 or 50 mile bike ride through 4 counties in 2 states); Lion’s Club Walk; Activities in the park and around town; Music by group hwy. 9; Car Show; Fireman’s Supper; Kid’s Fun Run; 7:00 pm parade

Annual Herb Festival

July 19th Vendors; Self-guided Garden tours; Kids Activities; Fairy Gardens; Pedal Car Show Contact: Kathy Falk 641-713-2354

Bel-Aire Estates Winery & Orchard

2 miles W on Hwy 105 • 641-420-7092

14TH Annual Fall Festival

Thymeless Treasures

thymelesstreasures • 641-713-4318 home Decor, Gifts, & Iowa Wines

September 6th Artists, Crafters, Antiques, Seasonal Goods, Food and other vendors. Music. Specials at Retail Shops. Contact: Kari Nelson 641-713-4698

Quilt Extravaganza

October 25th City-wide Quilt Celebration; Local Artists; Author Signings Contact: Patti Kratz 641-736-2461

Side Door Antiques

329 W. 4th Street • 641-512-5705

Small Business Saturday November 29th Drawings for Chamber Bucks

Hometown Christmas

St. Ansgar Greenhouse & Floral 415 North George Street • 641-713-4848

Unique collection of flowers, bedding plants, and pond plants!

December 6-7th Shopping with Santa; Family Activities; Bake Sales; Strolling Carolers; Specials at Retail Shops

Paradise Pizza & More

202 West 4th Street • 641-713-2434 Pizza, homemade Buns, Sandwiches, Broasted Chicken, & More!

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St. Ansgar

t. Ansgar is known as “The Garden Spot of Iowa” because of the beautiful local gardens, large old trees and lush farmland around the town. To honor a man whose influence had much to do in the shaping of his own life, the Rev. C.J. Clausen gave to the town the name “Saint Ansgar” (meaning “God’s Spear”). St. Ansgar is the only town so named in this entire United States and even the entire world. St. Ansgar is full of charming shops and home to the well-known Blue Belle Inn Bed and Breakfast. Also in St. Ansgar, and on the National Register of Historic Places, is the First Lutheran Church, the oldest Lutheran church in continuous use west of the Mississippi. Horizon Foods, a division of Malt-o-Meal, is one of several agricultural industries located in St. Ansgar. On June 21, 2014, St. Ansgar will celebrate its agricultural connections with its annual Oatmeal Days event. Located near St. Ansgar is the Cedar River, which provides opportunities for excellent boating, fishing, waterskiing and other activities. Halvorson Park is located 1 mile south of town. Cedar River Sportsman’s Park, which overlooks the river, is located 2 miles southeast of town. Both are wonderful places for picnics and camping. Acorn Park Golf Course is located 1 mile north of St. Ansgar and is nestled among the beautiful oak trees along

the Cedar River. A zero-entry aquatic center is also open from Memorial Day to Labor Day and offers a water slide, lap pool, and other amenities. White Deer Park in downtown St. Ansgar pays tribute to a white deer that roamed a three-mile square area northwest of town for about nine years. Born in the spring of 1980, she bore a fawn each year and mothered two or three sets of twins. Upon her death on December 13, 1988, she was preserved, mounted and is on display in a glassed-in case.

ore l p x E

, BluffHistoric Country visitbluffcountry.com

Waukon

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.

Farm & Creamery Tours Available! Call ahead or email for appointments (especially for groups!)

4 Viewing Windows! 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

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

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

40+ Ice Cream Flavors! Creamery, Ice Cream Parlor & Retail Store Malts - Shakes - Sundaes - Floats - Ice Cream Cones

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!

Waukon

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Driftless Area Scenic Byway Voted the Most Scenic State Byway in Iowa!

Home to Effigy Mounds

The only National Monument in the State of Iowa!

Visit our Communities of:

Dorchester, Harpers Ferry, Lansing, New Albin, Postville, Waterville and Waukon.

allamakeecounty.com

563.568.2624

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IA Area Map

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Charles City

Rockford 14

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Allamakee Buchanan Chickasaw Clayton Fayette Floyd Howard Mitchell Winneshiek

IA Area Map

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IA Trout Fishing Map

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. Continued on page 119

IA Trout Fishing Map

Continued from page 118

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 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.

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Trout Fishing for Kids A pond at Big Springs Hatchery, near Elkader, has been 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

Iowa Bike Trail Maps

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Cedar

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61 52

5th St. PL

Elmer Ave

Magill St.

Briggs St.

MARJO HILLS

Seippel

. St

Briggs St.

Main St.

Elmer Ave

Magill St.

Julien Dubuque

V49 / Reed Ave

S Iowa St

V49 / Reed Ave

Briggs St.

Elmer Ave

. St

151

Dubuque

St.

Crane Creek

5th

dvie

e th

151

Elmer Ave

Gran

151

Dubuque

Main St.

Magill St.

Julien Dubuque

MARJO HILLS

Recreational Trail Dubuque Recreational Trail

Main St.

4th St.

Briggs St.

velt

15th 10th

MARJO HILLS

Julien Dubuque

3rd St.

Wolf Ave

. St

as Shir

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in Ma

16th

3rd St.

4th St.

Peru

4th St.

2nd St.

as Shir

velt

dvie

rsi

ive

r he

Kalman St.

Main St.

Kalman St.

Roose 10th

5th St. PL

Chamber & Visitors Center 3rd St.

Peru 16th

Gran

dview

Gran

Cresc ent

Water Tower Park

Artwork

nd 5th 1

10th

Dodge

Magill St. Park View V49 /Dr. Reed Ave

Elmer Ave

State Street Highland Ave

Wolf Ave Denver Jefferson City Trail

Park View Dr.

State Street

Denver Jefferson City Trail

cti

Ridge St.

Friendly People Ball Park

5th St. PL

Crane Creek

as Shir evelt Roos

Dodge

15th

Wolf Ave

Quail Ave

Briggs St.

Denver Jefferson City Trail

Magill St.

Main St.

2nd St.

Ridge St. Park

Highland AveKalman St.

St.

Oakland Kalman Ave St.

State Street

Denver Jefferson City Trail

Navaho Ave

Midway Ave

3rd St.

Park View Dr.

5th

4th St.

Friendly People Ball Park

Water Clark St.Tower

5th St. PL

2nd St.

y sit 16th

r ve

i Un

Highland Ave

rin

Fishing

Quail Ave

Oakland Ave

5th St. PL

Parking Restrooms

Quail Ave

Oakland Ave

V49 / Reed Ave

Quail Ave

Highland Ave

Wolf Ave

Park View Dr.

rs we

e Art

4th St.

Crane Creek

Clark St.

250th St.

C50 / 260th St.

Hospital

ria

2nd St.

Navaho Ave

Sie

John F. Kennedy

NW Arterial

Water Tower

er art

Peru

John F. Kennedy

5th St. PL

Legend

ent

3rd St.

5th St. PL

Navaho Ave

9th St. SE

Elmer Ave th 5

Briggs St.

Kalman St.

Crane Creek

sit

er niv

Ridge St.

250th ForrestSt. Ave

Readlyn

Friendly People Ball Park

Readlyn

C50 / 260th St.

Park Hotel/Motel

Food

Readlyn 3

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eria

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3rd St.

2nd St.

NW ArterialJohn F.

4th St.

Crane Creek

Kennedy

Cresc ent

vania Dodge Pennsyl Cre sc Seippel

Briggs St.

Elmer Ave

Park View Magill St. Dr.

Magill St.

Water Tower Park

5th St. PL

NW Arterial

4th St.

Friendly People Ball Park

Pennsylvania Seippel

. St

Ridge St.

Midway Ave

rin

g Rd

rin

9th St. SE

Pennsylvania

mR B

250th St.

Heritage Trail Art

e Art

Clark St.

Tro

240th St. Willow Run Golf Course

Kennedy

Midway Ave

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9th St. SE

C57 / Cedar-Wapsi Rd. E Forrest Avenue Park n Ru on cti Se er art Qu

Gresham Rd. W

4.0 mi.

Golf Course

Artwork 63 Chamber & Visitors Center

1st Ave SE

Seippel

5th St. PL

h St.

5th Ave Wolf

Main St.

Kalman St.

Highland Ave Main St.

Clark St. Water Tower 5th St. PL Park

Legend

Denver

3.5 mi.

240th St.

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.

5.5 mi.

V49 / Reed Ave

Friendly People 5thPark St. PL Ball

Kalman St.

Highland Ave

Wolf Ave

Park View Dr.

Ridge St.

Oakland Ave

Navaho Ave

Midway Ave

rs we

Sie

Hilton Ave

S Jackson St

b Reha s & Team room s St Rest ower ery Sh tgom Mon

Hilton Ave

Ivy Ave

Siewers Spring State Park

6.0 mi.

V49 / Reed Ave

Quail Ave

Water Tower Park

V49 / Reed Ave

Quail Ave

Park View Dr.

Wolf Ave

Oakland Ave

63 C57 / Cedar-Wapsi Rd. E

Highland Ave

Gresham Rd. W

Forrest Avenue Park n Ru on cti Se er art Qu

Quail Ave

Oakland Ave

1st Ave SE

4.5 mi.

1st Ave NE

Friendly People Ball Park

Ridge St.

Clark St.

250th St.

State Street

1st Ave NE

Readlyn Clark St.

250th St.

Denver Jefferson City Trail

Marquis Rd. E

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

Denver

3.5 mi.

Marquis Rd. E

Readlyn Oakland Ave

State Street

Gresham Rd. W

C57 / Cedar-Wapsi Rd. E

Kennedy

250th St.

Denver Jefferson City Trail

3rd Ave NE

1st Ave SE

Heritage Trail

Trout Run Park

Readlyn 3.0 mi.

m R BWillow Run

Siewers Spring State Park

Forrest Avenue Park Golf Course n Ru on cti Se er art Qu Gresham Rd. W

6.5 mi.

m B

3.0 mi.

mR B 3

3.5 mi.

240th St. 4.0 mi.

C50 / 260th St.

m B

Tro

1st Ave SE Decorah Gresham Rd.Fish W Hatchery

ab Reh s & Teamtroom s St Res ower ery Sh om ntg Mo

y St

Ivy Ave

Hilton Ave

Grand

Garden Ave

6.0 mi.

ria

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Forrest Ave

7.0 mi. Rd. E Marquis

5.0 mi.

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4.5 mi. Decorah’s 1st Ave NE Eagle’s Nest

6.5 mi.

mer

Ivy Ave

Hilton Ave

Ivy Ave

Charles St

ab Reh s & Teamtroom s Res ower Sh

ver

3rd Ave NE

3.0 mi.

Tro

Trout Run Park

Decorah’s Eagle’s Nest

4.0 mi.

6.5 mi.

3rd Ave NE

4.5 mi.

5.0 mi.

Brown Lane

Readlyn

C50 / 260th St.

Forrest Avenue Park n Ru on cti Se er art Qu

Gresham Rd. W

o ntg

a Ri r Iow

4th Ave NW

Uppe

Grand

5th Ave NW

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

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

To Readlyn Trout Run 5.5 mMilesPark

240th St.

To Readlyn 5.5 Miles

Denver GR

Cedar Hill Park

1st Ave NE

240th St.

Denver Jefferson City Trail

C55 / Winslow Rd.

1st Ave NW 7th Ave NW

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

2.5 mi.

To Readlyn 5.5 Miles 2.5 mi. erce

2.0 mi.

To Waverly 7 Miles

Decorah Fish Hatchery

7.0 mi.

1.5 mi.

mm Co

To Waverly 7 Miles

erce

63 9

Cedar Hill Park

Heritage Trail

C50 / 260th St.

C57 / Cedar-Wapsi Rd. E

1st Ave SW

218

6th Ave NW 3rd 5thAve AveNE NW

2nd Ave NW

Tree Rivers Park

r 6th Aveve NW 1st Ave NW Brown Lane r Ri 1st Ave SE Hill Ceda Cedar 5th Ave NW Tree Rivers Park 1st Ave SW 4th AvePark NW 218 7.0 mi. 3rd Ave NW

Adams Parkway

Emery Dr.

Calmar miles to head fo Prairie Farmer (22 mi.)

2.5 mi.

2.0 mi.

Tree Rivers Park

To Readlyn 63ce Dr To Waverly er mm 5.5 Miles Co R7 Miles 63

Palisades Park

r Rive

Ceda

2.0 mi.

1.5 mi.

Emery Dr.

r Rive

Ceda

Adams Parkway 4th Emery Ave NWDr.

Willow Run Forrest Ave Golf Course

1st Ave SE

2nd Ave NW 1st Ave NW

Denver

Marquis Rd. E

1st Ave NE

3rd Ave NW

l Map

3rd Ave NE

1st Ave SE

1st Ave SW

218

Willow Run Golf Course

Marquis Rd. E

9th St. SE

4th Ave NW

Cedar Hill Park

1st Ave NW

5th Ave NW

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

6th Ave NW

Brown Lane

Pelikan Park

7th Ave NW

1st Ave NW

218

C55 / Winslow Rd.

Pelikan Park

218

C50 / 260th St.

1st Ave NE

2nd Ave NW

6th Ave NW

C55 / Winslow Rd.

Brown Lane Cedar Hill Park

Brown Lane

3rd Ave NE

Tree Rivers Park

Pelikan Park

Navaho Ave

218 Ave NW 7th

C55 / Winslow Rd.

3rd Ave NW

r Ri

Navaho Ave

Janesville

3rd Ave NW

ill

Broadway

ill

Palisades Park

C57 / Cedar-Wapsi Rd. E

240th St.

Denver

9th St. SE

4th Ave NW

Emery Dr.

r r Rive Ceda Emery Dr. Tree Rivers Park

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C55 / Winslow Rd.

Navaho Ave

5th Ave NW

Midway Ave Midway Ave

7th Ave NW

6th Ave NW

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Midway Ave

1st Ave NW

Pelikan Park

9th St. SE

3rd Ave NW

Cedar Hill Park

Tree Rivers Park

1st Ave SW

240th St.

Willow Run Golf Course

Cedar Hill Park

Tree Rivers Park

Adams Parkway ver

r r Rive3

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Wold Park

Emery Dr.

Adams Parkway

2nd Ave NW

Calmar—11 miles to trail 3rd Ave NW head for Prairie2nd Ave NW Farmer Trail (22 mi.) 1st Ave NW

5.5 Miles

Ivy Ave

4th Ave NW

2nd Ave NW

Brown Lane

Hilton Ave

5th Ave NW

Adams Parkway

Broadway

Water St Main Business District

Main St

Pelikan Park

4th Ave NW

C55 / Winslow Rd.

To Readlyn To 5.5 Readlyn Miles

Denver r

r Rive

Pelikan Park

6th Ave NW

Ivy Ave

7th Ave NW

Janesville

Hilton Ave

Janesville

To Waverly

Emery Dr.

Pelikan Park

Adams Parkway

218

Ceda

7th Ave NW

C55 / Winslow Rd.

0.0 mi.

To Readlyn 5.5 Miles

To Waverly 7 Miles 7 Miles

Hilton Ave

Centennial Oaks Golf Course

0.5 mi.

r Centennial Oaks r Rive Course CedaTheGolf Cut

5th Ave NW

arr

1.0 mi.

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r Ri

6th Ave NW

Janesville

Phelps Park Upper Iowa River

Water St Main Business District

Main St

0.5 mi.

Phelps Park

Ice Cave

Dunning’s Spring

0.5 mi.

Ceda

Centennial Oaks Golf Course

Palisades Park

Wold Park

Van Peenen

63 63

Grand

Centennial Oaks Golf Course

Hilton Ave

r Ri

Ceda

218

Garden Ave

ver

Garden Ave

4th St. SW

Waverly

r Rive

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Hilton Ave

Golf Course

Waverly Municipal Golf Course

Waverly

To Waverly 7 Miles

63 Grand

12th St. SE

Centennial Oaks Golf Course Waverly Municipal

12th St. SE

4th St. SW

218

r Rive

Ceda

arr

1.5 mi.

Garden Ave

Wartburg College

V21 /212th St.

Twin Springs Park

Campground

Hilton Ave

V21 /212th St.

Wartburg College

Waverly

Stony Point Rd

12th St. SE

ver

Rolling Prairie Trail

The Cut

Decorah Community Prairie ver

Janesville

218

Charles City To Fort Atkinson Charles City Trail Map CHARLESRecreational CITY Recreational Trail Janesville Map HIGH SCHOOL

a Ri r Iow

11th St

Centennial Oaks Janesville Golf Course

gS t

Uppe

V21 /212th St.

Waverly Municipal Golf Course

Decorah 0.0 mi.

Decorah Community Prairie V21 /212th St.

V2152 /212th St.

Twin Springs Fifth AvePark

Campground

To Fort Atkinson

CHARLES CITY Lake Meyer Park HIGH SCHOOL

Ivy Ave

OSPITAL

Spillville R B

r Rive

Ceda

Stony Point Rd

Hilton Ave

T77 / Casper Ave

Rob Roy Ln

CHARLES CITY R HIGH SCHOOL

Charles City RollingRecreational Prairie Trail Trail Map

11th St

HOSPITAL

e Dr

gS t

Charles City Trail Map Rolling PrairieRecreational Trail

11th St

Stony Point Rd

Riden Cir

Wartburg College

5 32 y #Meyer Park Lake CHARLES Hw CITY IA SCHOOL HIGH

lfin

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

Rolling Prairie Trail R

Phelps Park

Rolling Prairie Trail

Hilton Ave

9th St

Ellis Dr

Hilton Ave

Rob Roy LnSt 11th

lfin

0.5 mi. m

Hilton AveAve Garden

Rob Roy Ln

Stony Point Rd

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lze r

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218

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Waverly Municipal Park Golf Course

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Rd Van Peenen

ill

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rin

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Upper Iowa River

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arr

0.5 mi.

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Riden Cir

10th St

8th St

yS t

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Riden Cir

7th St

Riden Cir

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R 0.0 mi.

Grand

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Riv ers

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Floyd County Friends 3rd St 10th St Museum

5th St 3rd Ave

4th Ave C la

5 4th Ave th A 2nd Ave

-14

B 1st Ave Ba

Museum

5th Ave

Wartburg 52 College

Garden Ave

2nd St

8th St 5th St

5th St

Floyd County 6th St Museum

Cla

BFloyd5th RCounty Ave

4th St

3rd Ave

32 y#

Wartburg College

Calmar

Lake Meyer Park

1.0 mi.

Fifth Ave

Pulpit Rock Rd

12th St. SE

5th St

8th St

Floyd County Museum Rive 3rd rsidSt

3rd St

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ide

Ridgeway2nd Ave rk W St

4th Ave

. 5th wyAve

2nd AveIow

m1st RAve ive

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6th Ave

2nd St

4th St

3rd Ave

Conover 5

Ice Cave

0.5 mi.

Will Baker Park

4th St. SW Garden Ave

OOD URSE

6th Ave

5th Ave

Wartburg College

4th St. SW

AR Y

10th Ave ll6th y Ave

W14

7th Ave

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LIB

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lun m B B7th tP Ave k

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T77 / Casper Ave

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Lake Hendricks

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dallville

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o Kendallville

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430th Street

Ave. AddisonAddison Ave.

Wapsipinicon River

Loop Trail

Wapsipinicon River

Loop Trail

Wapsipinicon River

Loop Trail

430th Street

1.7 mi

Trail to Prairie Edge

Cresco

1.7 mi

R mB

440th Street

1.2 mi

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m Av Ridgeway e m #9 W- 270 y. 14 th B Ra HwRidgeway 28 B WAv

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1.7 mi

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1.2 mi

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1 mi 1.2 mi

1 mi

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Mad

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450th Street

To Decorah

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450th Street McIntire

To Decorah

Tro u

To Kendallville

450th Street

To Decorah

Prairie Farmer Recreational Trail To Kendallville Recreational Prairie FarmerTrail

470th Street

St .

470th Street

28 5t h

Trout Stream

Valley View Dr

Trout Stream

1.75 mi

Addison Ave.

Walnut Ave.

Valley Ave.

1.75 mi

Valley Ave.

120

3rd St.

2nd St.

Galesville

Gifts & Home Accents

in a Renovated Dairy Barn

Friendly farm animals

Easy parking for buses & campers

{

}

Directions: Hwy 53 through Galesville, WI; turn at the grocery store onto Silver Creek Rd, Craft Barn down 1 ½ miles on the left

608.582.3447 • www.craftbarngalesville.com

Trempealeau County

WISCONSIN

One Rural Experience After Another......

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alesville, Wisconsin is 20 miles north of La Crosse, Wisconsin and is centered in the Coulee Region of the Mississippi River Valley. The city rests among some of the most intriguing landscapes including rolling hills, towering cliffs, forests, and spring-fed streams. Galesville is known for its ever-popular annual event, the Apple Affair. As the event is always hosted the first Saturday in October, this year’s Apple Affair will take place on October 4, 2014. This will be the event’s 32nd annual celebration. One of the most highlighted events in Trempealau County and the surrounding area, the Apple Affair began in 1983 as part of Wisconsin’s efforts to promote the state’s apple orchards. With attendance each year now in the thousands, the festivities for the Apple Affair are located in the Square in downtown Galesville and includes an enormous breakfast, figuratively and literally. An extraordinary scrambled egg omelet consisting of 1,250 eggs, 30 pounds of ham, 10 cups of onions, and 9 pounds of butter was made and served the first year along with 630 squares of coffee cake, 22 gallons of apple juice, 21 loaves of bread, and 1,200 cups of coffee -- serving roughly 630 the first year attempted. Breakfast isn’t the only big feat at the Apple Affair. Also included is everything apple, from the famous 10-foot apple pie, to apple slices, carameled apples, Queen’s Apple, apple cider, apple juice, and even just a plain apple for those who seek it. An abundance of artists and crafters also show up for the event. Another component of the Apple Affair is the bike tour. Hundreds of bicyclists spend the day touring Galesville apple Continued on page 122

•Mississippi River Scenic Byway •Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge •Perrot State Park •Nation’s Largest Connected Bicycle Loop System •Lodging & Camping •200 mile Snowmobile Trail System •Wineries & Specialty Shops

Trempealeau County Tourism Council • www.ruralexperiences.com

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Galesville

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orchards and the surrounding area, choosing a 6, 12, 35, 55, or 72 mile trek. More than 700 bicyclists are known to participate in a given year. Also popular in Trempealau County are the other scenic small towns and rural farmlands. The quaint shops and historic buildings offer great opportunities for shoppers. Visitors on a budget can enjoy no-cost attractions including the swinging bridge in Galesville, Avenue of Heroes (Soldier’s

Walk) in Arcadia, and viewing the Mississippi River barges from the observation deck at Lock & Dam #6 in Trempealau. Also, most towns in the county are abound with farmer’s markets and their own unique festivals. During the spring, summer, and autumn months, bikers can ride on the nation’s largest connected bicycle loop system, and in the colder months, winter-lovers will not forget the county’s 200 mile snowmobile trail system, ice fishing holes, snowshoeing paths, and cross country skiing routes.

Wisconsin Area Visitor Centers La Crosse, Wisconsin Convention and Visitor Bureau 410 E. Veteran’s Memorial Drive La Crosse, WI 54601. Phone: 1-608-782-2366 (800) 658-9424 www.explorelacrosse.com Trempealeau County Tourism Council P O Box 243 Trempealeau, WI 54661 info@ruralexperiences.com ruralexperiences.com

Wisconsin Department of Tourism PO Box 7976 Madison, WI 53707 Phone: 608-266-7621 Fax: 608-266-3403 800-432-TRIP www.travelwisconsin.com

La Crosse

a Crosse was incorporated as a city in 1856, but its history dates back 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 United States. 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. The first white settlement at La Crosse occurred in 1841 when Nathan Myrick, a New York native, moved to the village at Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin to work in the fur trade. Myrick was disappointed to find that because many fur traders were already well-entrenched there, there were no openings for him in the trade. As a result, he decided to establish a trading post upriver at the then still unsettled site of Prairie La Crosse. In 1841, he built a temporary trading post on Barron Island (now called Pettibone Park), which lies just west of La Crosse’s present downtown. The following year, Myrick relocated the post to the mainland prairie, partnering with H.J.B. Miller to run the outfit. The spot Myrick chose to build his trading post proved ideal for settlement. It was near the junction of the Black, La Crosse, and Mississippi Rivers. In addition, the post was built at one of the few points along the Wisconsin side of the Mississippi River where a broad plain ideal for development existed between the river’s bank and the tall bluffs that line the river valley. Because of these advantages, a small village grew around Myrick’s trading post in the 1840s. A small Mormon community settled at La Crosse in 1844, building several dozen cabins a few miles south of Myrick’s post. Although these settlers relocated away from the Midwest after just a year, the land they

occupied near La Crosse continues to bear the name Mormon Coulee. On June 23, 1850, Father James Lloyd Breck of the Episcopal Church said the first Christian liturgy (Episcopalian liturgy) on top of Grandad Bluff. Today a monument to that event stands atop the bluff, near the parking lot at 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. Under the direction of Timothy Burnss, lieutenant governor of Wisconsin, surveyor William Hood platted the village in 1851. This opened it up for further settlement, which was achieved rapidly as a result of promotion of the city in eastern newspapers. By 1855, La Crosse had grown in population to nearly 2,000 residents, leading to its incorporation in 1856. The city grew even more 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 grew to become one of the largest cities in Wisconsin. At that time, it was a major economic center in the state, especially of the lumber industry, for logs cut in the interior of the state could be rafted down the Black River toward sawmills built in the city. La Crosse also became a center for the brewing industry and other manufacturers that saw advantages in the city’s location adjacent to major transportation arteries, such as the Mississippi River and the railroad between Milwaukee and St. Paul, Minnesota. 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. La Crosse remains the largest city on Wisconsin’s western border, and the educational institutions in the city have recently led it toward becoming a regional technology and medical hub.

La Crosse

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Up to

60% off store wide every day

608-783-6646 Sky Harbour Shopping Center, 301 Sky Harbour Dr, La Crosse, WI 54603 • Exit 2 off I-90 Monday-Friday 10am -7pm • Saturday 10am - 6pm • Sunday 12pm - 5pm

La Crosse Area Bike Route Map

124 La Crosse Area Bike Map

La Crosse Area Bike Map

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Calendar of Events

MINNESOTA april 2014 Second Fri. “Over the Back Fence”, St. Mane Theatre 7:30 pm (Feb-Nov) .... Lanesboro

Chosen Bean Concert - Michael Johnson............................Chatfield

MN Trout Fish Opener.........................................................Statewide

11-13 12 24-26 25 25-27 26 26

Ibsen Festival...............................................................Lanesboro Trout Classic.................................................................. Chatfield Mid West Music Fest........................................................ Winona Chosen Bean Concert - Ashley Condon......................... Chatfield Bluff Country Studio Art Tour.......................... Area Communities Root River Earth Day.....................................................Lanesboro Lipmasters Tournament, 28th Annual............................. Rushford

“The Dakota Uprising,” Fillmore County History Center.... Fountain

May 2014 Second Fri. “Over the Back Fence”, St. Mane Theatre 7:30 pm (Feb-Nov) .... Lanesboro 2-3 City Wide Garage Sales.................................................Caledonia 3 City Wide Garage Sales.................................................. Chatfield 16 Bluff Country Gathering................................................Lanesboro 16-17 City Wide Garage Sales.................................................... Preston 16-18 Semba Spring Bluegrass Festival, 16th Annual............... Houston 16-18 Preston Trout Days Celebration........................................ Preston 16-18 Wilderfest.................................................................Spring Valley 16-17 Syttende Mai............................................................Spring Grove 17 Whalan Stand-Still Parade.................................................Whalan 17 Root River Triathlon......................................................... Houston 17 ExpoCulinaria, An Experience of Taste............................ Rushford 17 Canoe.Bike.Run............................................................... Houston 26 Memorial Day Programs.................................. Area Communities

1 3-15 Gammel Dag..................................................................Peterson 14 Lake Louise State Park Open House...................................LeRoy 14 Nano/Emerging Technology Day................................... Rushford 14 Wilder Foot Races...................................................Spring Valley 15 Art in the Park.............................................................Lanesboro 25-Aug. 3 Great River Shakespeare Festival..................................... Winona 28 27th Annual Dixieland Jazz Festival.................................. Winona 28 Bike Ride Shooting Star Trail......................................Rose Creek 29-July 20 Minnesota Beethoven Festival......................................... Winona

JULY 2014 Every Tues. Music in the Gazebo Park (6/3-8/5), 7pm.................... Caledonia Every Wed. Music in the Park 6:30pm (June-August)...............Spring Grove Every Thur. Band Concert, 7:30 pm, City Park (June-July) ............. Chatfield Every Sun. Music in Spring Creek Park, 6-8pm (June-August).Spring Valley Second Fri. 4-6 10 11 11-13 14-20 18-20 18-20 21 22-26 25-27 26-27

“Over the Back Fence”, St. Mane Theatre 7:30 pm (Feb-Nov) .... Lanesboro 4th of July Celebration.................................................. Harmony Preston Family Fun Night................................................ Preston Fillmore County Relay For Life...................................... Harmony Bud Marnarch Tournament...........................................Caledonia Rushford Days............................................................... Rushford 32nd Annual Root River Antique Engine and Tractor Show... Spring Valley Summerfest Celebration........................................................... LeRoy Ye Olde Opera House Summer Musical Production...... Spring Grove Fillmore County Fair....................................................... Preston Houston Hoedown Days................................................. Houston 10th Annual Men’s Fast Pitch Tourney............................ Preston

AUGUST 2014

Every Wed. Music in the Park 6:30pm (June-August)...............Spring Grove Every Sun. Music in Spring Creek Park, 6-8pm (June-Aug).....Spring Valley Second Fri. “Over the Back Fence”, St. Mane Theatre 7:30 pm (Feb-Nov) .... Lanesboro JUNE 2014 1-3 Buffalo Bill Days..........................................................Lanesboro Every Tues. Music in the Gazebo Park (6/3-8/5), 7pm.................... Caledonia 5 National Night Out.........................................Local Communities Every Wed. Music in the Park 6:30pm (June-August)...............Spring Grove 9 Fossil Fest..................................................................... Harmony Every Thur. Band Concert, 7:30 p.m., City Park (June-July) ........... Chatfield 9 50’s & 60’s Day..................................................................Mabel Every Sun. Music in Spring Creek Park, 6-8pm (June-Aug).....Spring Valley 13 BAM - Bicycling Across MN.......................... Peterson - Preston Second Fri. “Over the Back Fence”, St. Mane Theatre 7:30 pm (Feb-Nov) .... Lanesboro 7-10 47th Annual Western Days Celebration......................... Chatfield 6 Basket Social Travel Lanes.................................................LeRoy 13-17 Ag Days Celebration................................................Spring Valley 7 National Trail Hike Day.................................................. Chatfield 14 Preston Family Fun Night................................................ Preston 7 Rhubarb Festival.........................................................Lanesboro 14-17 Semba Summer Bluegrass Festival, 22nd Annual.......... Houston 7 Nanotek Trek................................................................. Rushford 15-17 Canton Day Off Celebration.............................................. Canton 7-8 Fountain Trail Days........................................................Fountain 16 King of the Hill Derby..............................................Spring Valley 11-15 Steamboat Days.............................................................. Winona 17-24 Gladiolus Days........................................................... St. Charles 12 Preston Family Fun Night................................................ Preston 24-26 Mid West Music Fest...................................................... Winona 13-14 Caledonia City Fest 2014.............................................Caledonia

Calendar of Events SEPTEMBER 2014 Second Fri. 5-7 6 6 6 13 13 13 13 13-14 19-20 19-20 20 20 20 20 25-28 26-28

“Over the Back Fence”, St. Mane Theatre 7:30 pm (Feb-Nov) .... Lanesboro Hesper-Mabel Steam Engine Days.....................................Mabel Taste of the Trail.............................................................. Preston Taste of the Trail............................................................ Harmony Taste of the Trail.............................................................Fountain Taste of the Trail............................................................ Rushford Taste of the Trail................................................ Rushford Village Taste of the Trail............................................................. Houston Lake Louise State Park Candlelight Walk...........................LeRoy Bluff Country Tractor Ride............................................... Preston Fall City Wide Garage Sales.........................................Caledonia City Wide Garage Sales................................................... Preston Taste of the Trail.............................................................Peterson Taste of the Trail..........................................................Lanesboro Taste of the Trail...............................................................Whalan Chosen Bean Concert - John Gorka.............................. Chatfield Boats and Bluegrass Festival........................................... Winona Wykoff’s Fall Festival.........................................................Wykoff

October 2014 Second Fri. 3-4 3-4 3-4 4-5 11 17-19 18 18 24 25

Over the Back Fence, St. Mane Theatre 7:30pm (Feb-Nov)......... Lanesboro Fall Foliage........................................................................... Harmony Shooting Star Scenic Byway Fall Festival....Rose Creek, Adams, LeRoy Fall City-Wide Rummage Sales................................................... LeRoy Festival of Quilts.....................................................Spring Grove Firefighters Variety Show & Lions Club Beer/Brat Supper.... Chatfield Hot Air Balloon Rally....................................................Caledonia Arts & Crafts Fair.......................................................... Rushford Collective Unconscious Concert................................... Chatfield Chosen Bean Concert - Mustard Retreat....................... Chatfield Pumpkin Fest & Fall Expo............................................... Preston

NOVEMber 2014 1-2 Old Time Radio Theater.......................................................LeRoy Second Fri. Over the Back Fence, St. Mane Theatre 7:30pm (Feb-Nov)......... Lanesboro 15 Chosen Bean Concert - Joe Crookston........................... Chatfield 15 Holiday Fest................................................................... Harmony 20-21 Caledonia Chamber “Explore Caledonia” Promotion.....Caledonia 22 Fine Arts Festival............................................................. Houston 27 Fillmore County Turkey Day Run...................................... Preston 27-29 Festival of Trees........................................................Spring Grove

DECEMBER 2014

Holiday Dinner Dance...................................................Lanesboro

6 6 6 6 7 13 13 13 13

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Breakfast with Santa....................................................... Harmony Milk & Cookies with Santa............................................. Chatfield Breakfast with Santa......................................................... Preston Christmas in LeRoy.............................................................LeRoy Christmas Inn Tour.......................................................Lanesboro Christmas in Rushford Peterson Valley...........................Peterson Houston Holidazzle.......................................................... Houston Parade of Lights............................................................. Rushford Santa Comes to Fountain................................................Fountain

JANUARY 2015 17 24

Preston’s Candle Light Ski & Chili Cook Off Contest.........Preston Chatfield Chill Fest......................................................... Chatfield

Iowa april 2014 4 4 5-6 5 5 14 18 25 25-27 26 26

Women’s Weekend Out.................................................... Decorah Chamber of Commerce Bowling Mixer.............................. Cresco Jazz Spotlight 2014........................................................... Cresco Jazz+............................................................................... Decorah ChickFest.................................................................. Charles City Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame Banquet................................ Cresco Full Moon 5K............................................................ Charles City Decorah City-Wide Garage Sales..................................... Decorah Bluff Country Studio Art Tour.......................... Area Communities Time Travels Mountain Biking Event................................ Decorah City Wide Garage Sales................................................ St. Ansgar

May 2014

Lorie Line & Her Fab Five................................................... Cresco

Mother’s Day Luncheon............................................ Lime Springs

Fun Run/Walk................................................................... Riceville

17-18

Battle of Old Bradford Civil War Reenactment.....................Nashua

24-26

Main Street Elkader Spring Flea Market.............................. Elkader

24-26

35th Annual Spring Arts & Crafts Festival........................McGregor

Memorial Day Observance................................................ Riceville

Party in the Park, 5-9pm............................................. Charles City

3 0-June 1 Charles City Challenge Whitewater Weekend.............. Charles City

JUNE 2014 1 6 6 5-6

Golf Cart Rides/Pie Sunday...............................................Riceville Ag Day Celebration............................................................Riceville City of Maples Golf Outing....................................................Osage PTO Garage Sale................................................................Riceville

128 7 7 10-11 13 13-15 14 15 20 21 21 21 27 27 28

Calendar of Events Spring Treasures Fest...........................................................Osage Buckwheat Pancakes & Garage Sale Day.................. Lime Springs 90th Dairy Days Celebration................................... Fredericksburg Party in the Park, 5-9pm..............................................Charles City Thunder in the Park............................................................Waukon Froelich Hard-Surface Tractor Pull, 11am.......................... Froelich Father’s Day Chicken Barbeque..................................Lime Springs Friday Night Out in City Park................................................Osage BRAM (Bike Ride Around Mitchell Co.)................................Osage Oatmeal Days................................................................. St. Ansgar Iowa Games WhiteWater Slalom Event........................ Charles City Friday Night Out in City Park................................................Osage Party in the Park, 5-9pm............................................. Charles City 5th Annual Lazy River Beer & Wine Festival...................Marquette

JULY 2014 3-6 Charles City 4th of July Celebration........................... Charles City 4 Fireworks over Lake Hendricks..........................................Riceville 4 Independence Day Parade.....................................................Osage 8-12 Winneshiek County Fair.................................................... Decorah 11 Friday Night Out in City Park................................................Osage 11 Party in the Park, 5-9pm..............................................Charles City 11-12 Moto Guzzi Rally Show.......................................................Elkader 12 Thor-A-Thon 2014 Dual Event............................................ Cresco 13 Custom Antique Rod Assoc. CAR Show......................Charles City 16-19 Floyd County Fair........................................................Charles City 18-19 Old Roundhouse Trail Days.....................................................Elma 19 Annual Herb Festival...................................................... St. Ansgar 24 Nordic Fest....................................................................... Decorah 24-27 Elkader Sweet Corn Days....................................................Elkader 25 Friday Night Out in City Park................................................Osage 25 Party in the Park, 5-9pm............................................. Charles City 27 Steeple Day.............................................................................Elma 28-Aug. 2 Mitchell County Fair.............................................................Osage

AUGUST 2014 2 8 8 8-10 15-17 16 16 23

Wapsipinicon Festival....................................................... Riceville Party in the Park, 5-9pm............................................. Charles City Friday Night Out in City Park................................................Osage Sweet Corn Days....................................................... Lime Springs Waukon Corn Days............................................................Waukon Art-A-Fest, Central Park.............................................. Charles City 19th Amendment Celebration...................................... Charles City Encouragement Corp Christian Concert...................... Charles City

2 3-24 23 30

Main Street Elkader Fall Flea Market...................................Elkader Harmonious Wail “Gypsy Jazz”...........................................Elkader Labor Day Parade............................................................McGregor

SEPTEMBER 2014 6 7 27-28 28

14th Annual Fall Festival............................................. St. Ansgar Golf Cart Rides/Pie Sunday............................................ Riceville Fort Atkinson Rendezvous...................................... Fort Atkinson Fall-Der-All Celebration..................................................Froelich

4 4 23 25

WitchFest & Rusty Olde Crows Craft & Antique Show...Charles City 39th Annual Fall Arts & Crafts Festival...............................Osage Spookwalk.................................................................Charles City Quilt Extravaganza....................................................... St. Ansgar

OCTOBER 2014

NOVEMBER 2014 7-9 29

HolidayFest...............................................................Charles City Small Business Saturday................................ Area Communities

DECEMBER 2014 5 5-6 6 6-7 7

Holiday Lighted Parade.............................................Charles City Secret Santa Shop...........................................................Riceville Breakfast with Santa........................................................Riceville Hometown Christmas.................................................. St. Ansgar Christmas in Lime Springs..................................... Lime Springs

Wisconsin May 2014 10

City Wide Rummage Sales.............................................. Galesville

JULY 2014 2-5 11-13

Riverfest.......................................................................... La Crosse Trempealeau Catfish Days............................................... La Crosse

SEPTEMBER 2014 25-28

Oktoberfest...................................................................La Crosse

NOVEMBER 2014 28-Dec. 31 Rotary Holiday Lights................................................... La Crosse

A Decorah Favorite Dinner Hours: Sunday Brunch: Happy Hour:

Wednesday-Saturday Opening at 5:00pm 9:00am-1:00pm Wednesday-Saturday 5:00-6:00pm

Private dining room available, seating up to 50 people. Great for rehearsal dinners, reunions, birthdays, holiday parties.

Check out our wine shop for a variety of wines to take home. Gift certificates available in any amount with no expiration date. A great gift for anyone.

Voted Best of the Bluffs

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food for thought

117 West Water St., Decorah, IA • 563-382-WINE (9463) www.rubaiyatrestaurant.com • Reservations appreciated email - info@rubaiyatrestaurant.com

SE Minnesota ~ NE IOWA ~ SW Wisconsin Visitor’s Guide 2014-2015

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…”

SE Minnesota ~ NE IOWA ~ SW wisconsin Visitor’s Guide 2014-2015

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