15 Best Things to do in Winona Minnesota for your Next Trip

Are you looking for cool, unique, and unusual things to do in Winona Minnesota? If yes, you have landed in the right place.

Winona is located in Bluff County on the Mississippi River. Winona Minnesota is filled with hidden gems, family-friendly activities & charming attractions that would really surprise you.

To make your Winona itinerary memorable & enticing, we are going to share with you 15 unique things to do in Winona Minnesota

15 Things to do in Winona Minnesota

Whether you are a seasoned traveler, a history enthusiast, or traveling for the first time, Winona Minnesota has something for everyone. Enjoy in Winona, MN like never before with our definitive guide on cool things to do. Let’s discuss it one by one.

1. Minnesota Marine Art Museum

Minnesota Marine Art Museum is situated next to the Mississippi River with pretty beautiful gardens. From historic artworks to amazing exhibitions, this museum has great art inspired by water. Additionally, this museum has six art galleries, and educational & event spaces where visitors attend special events.

Secret Tip: Look and search for hidden treasures inside the museum.

2. Bloedow Bakery

If your kids like pastries, cakes & donuts, visiting Bloedow Bakery is one of the best things to do in Winona Minnesota with kids. They not only serve delicious donuts but also won an award for best donuts in Minnesota. You can stop in to see them or call for an order but it is recommended to visit their bakery.

Secret Tip: Before visiting a bakery, call them earlier to ensure the availability of the treat you want to taste.

3. Garvin Heights City Park

Tight on budget and searching for free things to do in Winona, MN? Garvin Heights City Park should be on your list. This park offers an amazing view of the bluff top with Lake Pepin and Trempealeau Mountain. Also, you could enjoy hiking, and biking and make yourself ready for natural & memorable picnics.

Secret Tip: Reach Garvin Heights via a hike from Sugar Loaf.

4. Sugar Loaf

Sugar Loaf is one of the biggest ski resorts with welcoming natural trails & fabulous views. This is a bluff on the Mississippi River that will let you enjoy the city’s panoramic views. Sugarloaf got its name from its shape as it remind people of early hunters and pioneers of sugar loaves. Must visit this place to learn about history.

Secret Tip: Do not forget to enjoy hiking.

5. Lake Park

For family-friendly fun and one of the best things to do in Winona Minnesota for adults, Lake Park is an ideal spot without any second thought. In summertime, you can visit this park to enjoy kayaking and canoeing. But when winter hits, go to the natural ice rink through rental skates & for a stroll, or rent snowshoes.

Secret Tip: Before visiting the park, go to their official website for upcoming events.

6. Glorious Glass Tour

If you want to know about Minnesota history in detail, must go on a self-guided Glorious Glass tour. On this tour, you will learn about historic buildings, churches, and unique neighborhoods that make Winona “the stained-class capital of the U.S. Moreover, you will attend different events here that will make your visit memorable.

Secret Tip: To know about history, you just need to get enough know-how of Minnesota history.

7. Latsch Island

Winona mainly has two main islands and if you are looking for Winona’s different perspective, drive to Latsch Island. On this island, you will see picnic tables, boathouses, and beaches. Go to the nearby Historic Wagon Bridge which will give you stunning views of the Mississippi River.

Secret Tip: Go to this beach during fall before winter.

8. Great River Bluffs State Park

Oak-hickory woods, goat prairies, and pine plantations make Great River Bluffs State Park an amazing place for birding, hiking, and watching the scenery. This is one of the best things to do in Winona Minnesota today. Also, if you are in search of a calm & quieter Natural Park, luckily this park has a calmer environment.

Secret Tip: To avail of free entry, go for a state park sticker.

9. Pickwick Mill

The Pickwick Mill was constructed in the 1850s and is now welcoming visitors as a milling museum. This stunning place features 6 floors, a restaurant with picturesque views, trout fishing & picnic site. Their ticket prices are $5 per person, $3 for teenagers over 12 years, and $1 for children aged 12 or under.

Secret Tip: If you travel in a group, it is best to go for group pricing to save money.

10. Holzinger Lodge Trails

Holzinger Lodge Trail is an outdoor recreational area, event venue, and hiking trail. These trails are best for mountain biking and hiking purposes. It’s not too difficult to complete this trail as this is a moderately challenging route. If you think it would be difficult for you, you can explore with a tourist guide.

Secret Tip: Do not forget to pack hiking essentials like shoes, clothes, and other essentials.

11. Winona Visitors’ Center

One of the famous visitor centers filled with area maps and information where you will be welcomed with friendly staff. In this visitor center, you can know about famous attractions, historical places, and tourist guides. Do you know an interesting fact about this center center? It’s free and the best option for people looking for free things to do in Winona Minnesota.

Secret Tip: Try to learn about famous Winona things in full depth.

12.  No Name Bar

No Name Bar is a quirky restaurant that has literally never officially had any name. In this bar, you could enjoy cocktails and this is one of the best things to do in Winona MN at night.

On the front of the building, there is no signage and seems like an uninviting place for tourists. You will find amazing artwork and paintballs inside it.

Secret Tip: Shows normally start at 9 p.m. so visit after 9 o’clock.

13. Blooming Grounds

Pick up tea, coffee, and breakfast at one of Winona’s famous coffee bars. From coffee to tea, everything here is great with a good ambiance and professional staff. Enjoy weekend breakfast, afternoon tea, and evening coffee at Blooming Grounds as it’s one of the best things to do in Winona, MN this weekend.

Secret Tip: Try to visit during nearby events or festivals.

14. Watkins Heritage Museum & Store

Old heritage museums and stores show visitors old products, photographs, and advertising. Explore these old memorable things & history is worth considering. There is no entry fee to enter this museum and the store is connected to the museum where you can find and buy more than 300 Watkins products.

Secret Tip: Every Saturday, you can stop here for a half-hour quick visit.

15. Fairfield Hotel

On our list, the last best thing that you can do in Winona is make your stay worth remembering at Fairfield Hotel. This hotel is clean with friendly staff and a laid-back atmosphere. Also, they offer their guests free breakfast and free parking. So, what’s better than enjoying a free breakfast at one of Winona’s top hotels?

Secret Tip: If you forget to pick something with yourself, go for nearby options.

Final Thoughts!

Winona Minnesota is a wonderful town that you can explore all year round. After enjoying your time in Winona, you won’t regret ever. There are a lot of things to do in Winona Minnesota but we compiled a list of those unique things that best match your travel needs.

Nowadays, there’s a fall season everywhere so visiting Winona in the fall is one of the best experiences to enjoy colors and blooming flowers. We hope you enjoyed this blog post. For more fun travel ideas, get in touch with us.

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