Rochester, Minnesota: 10 Unforgettable Things to Do Nearby

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10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Rochester, Minnesota (Olmsted County)

Looking for easy, fun, and memorable things to do in Rochester, Minnesota? Whether you’re visiting the Mayo Clinic, road-tripping across the Midwest, or planning a weekend getaway, Rochester in Olmsted County has a lot more going on than many people realize. From peaceful river walks and historic caves to cozy coffee shops and family‑friendly farms, this area offers a little bit of everything. Below are 10 things to do in and near Rochester, MN that locals love and visitors shouldn’t miss.

1. Stroll the Rochester Riverwalk & Peace Plaza Downtown

If you want to get a feel for the city fast, start downtown. Follow the paved paths along the Zumbro River and weave your way through the Rochester Riverwalk and Peace Plaza. It’s compact, walkable, and full of people nearly all year round.
  • Stop for coffee at a local cafĂ©.
  • Check out public art and murals.
  • Browse small shops and boutiques.
On a nice summer evening, you might find live music, food trucks, or outdoor events right in the plaza. It’s a great first stop after you check into your hotel or finish a Mayo Clinic appointment.

2. Explore the Famous Mayo Clinic & Gonda Building

Even if you’re not in town for medical care, the Mayo Clinic campus is an impressive place to see. It’s one of the best-known medical centers in the world, and the main campus in Rochester feels almost like a small city. Walk through the connected buildings and skyways and you’ll find:
  • Beautiful artwork and sculptures
  • Peaceful lounges and atriums
  • Views of downtown from higher floors
The Gonda BuildingPlummer Building are especially interesting. The architecture, stonework, and details inside the Plummer Building make it feel more like a historic library or old university than a clinic. If you enjoy architecture or history, you’ll likely find yourself saying, “Wow, I didn’t expect this.”

3. Visit the Plummer House and Its Secret-Like Gardens

Just a few minutes from downtown, the Plummer House feels like a little piece of Europe tucked into Rochester. This historic stone mansion was built in the early 1900s by Dr. Henry Plummer of the Mayo Clinic. The home and grounds cover about 11 acres and include:
  • Terraced gardens
  • Stone stairways and paths
  • Ponds and a water tower
You can walk the grounds for free most of the year. It’s a quiet place for a slow stroll, photos, or even a picnic. If you enjoy old homes, history, or just peaceful spaces, this is an easy “must-do” in Rochester.

4. Get Outside at Quarry Hill Nature Center

If you like trails and nature, put Quarry Hill Nature Center near the top of your list. Located on the northeast side of Rochester, this park offers:
  • Over 8 miles of hiking trails
  • Birdwatching and wildlife viewing
  • Old quarry sites and a sandstone cave
  • A nature center with live animals and displays
In spring and summer, the park is full of wildflowers and green trees. In fall, the colors are amazing. In winter, locals come here for cross‑country skiing and snowshoeing. If you’re visiting with kids, the nature center building is a great stop. They can see turtles, snakes, fish, and more, and the exhibits are hands-on and kid-friendly.

5. Bike or Walk the Rochester Trail System

Rochester has a surprisingly large network of paved bike and walking trails. Many of them follow the creeks and river, which makes for peaceful, easy rides. You’ll find miles of interconnected paths that can take you:
  • Along the Zumbro River
  • Through quiet neighborhoods
  • Past parks and playgrounds
If you don’t have a bike with you, check if your hotel offers rentals, or look for local shops that do. Even a simple 30–45 minute walk on these trails can be a nice break if you’ve been inside all day. If you’re staying near downtown or near Mayo, you can usually reach the trails without needing to drive at all.

6. Spend a Day at Silver Lake Park

Just north of downtown, Silver Lake Park is one of the locals’ favorite spots for fresh air. Around the lake, you’ll find:
  • Paved walking and biking paths
  • Playgrounds and open green space
  • Picnic areas and shelters
You can also rent paddleboats or kayaks in warmer months. It’s not a huge lake, but it’s big enough to feel like a real escape right inside the city. Want a simple plan? Grab sandwiches or takeout in town, then head to Silver Lake for an easy picnic with a nice view.

7. Go Underground at Niagara Cave (Perfect Day Trip)

If you’re up for a short drive, Niagara Cave is one of the coolest things to do near Rochester, Minnesota. Located in Harmony, MN, it’s about an hour’s drive south from the city. Once you get there, you can:
  • Take a guided walking tour deep underground
  • See a 60-foot waterfall inside the cave
  • Walk past underground streams and rock formations
The cave stays around the same cool temperature all year, so bring a light jacket or sweatshirt even in July. This is a great option if you’re visiting in summer and want to mix in something different from the usual downtown and park stops.

8. Shop and Eat at Apache Mall & Local Restaurants

Sometimes, you just want an easy day with shopping and good food. Apache Mall is the main indoor mall in Rochester and is conveniently located near Highway 52. Inside and around the mall, you’ll find:
  • National brand stores
  • Casual and sit-down restaurants
  • Coffee and dessert spots
Beyond the mall, Rochester has a growing food scene. You’ll find everything from classic Midwest comfort food to sushi, Indian, Mexican, and more. If you’re here for medical care, many restaurants are used to visitors with special diet needs and are happy to work with you. Don’t be shy about asking.

9. Visit Local Farms, Orchards, and Wineries

Drive just a little way out of Rochester into Olmsted County, and the city quickly gives way to rolling farmland. Depending on the season, you can:
  • Pick apples at a local orchard
  • Visit a pumpkin patch in the fall
  • Stop at a nearby winery or tasting room
These small, local spots are a fun way to see the countryside and support family businesses. If you’re traveling with kids, farm visits and orchards can easily turn into some of their favorite trip memories. Ask your hotel front desk or a local coffee shop for current recommendations; they’ll usually know which spots are best that week.

10. Enjoy Rochester’s Festivals, Markets, and Live Events

Rochester has a busy event calendar, especially from late spring through early fall. Depending on when you visit, you might find:
  • Outdoor concerts downtown
  • Farmers’ markets with fresh local produce
  • Food truck nights
  • Seasonal festivals and art fairs
Many of these events take place in or near Peace Plaza, downtown streets, or local parks. They’re casual, family-friendly, and usually free to attend. If you like to plan ahead, check local Rochester tourism websites or city event calendars before your trip so you can line up your visit with something fun.

Tips for Visiting Rochester, Minnesota

Here are a few quick tips to make your time in Rochester, MN smoother:
  • Weather: Winters are cold and snowy. Summers can be warm and humid. Pack layers and good walking shoes.
  • Getting around: Downtown is very walkable, and many hotels connect to Mayo and shops via skyways and underground walkways.
  • Family-friendly: Most attractions on this list work well for all ages.
  • Day trips: If you have a car, add places like Niagara Cave or nearby small towns to your list.

Final Thoughts: Discovering Rochester, MN

Rochester, Minnesota may be known around the world for the Mayo Clinic, but it’s much more than a medical destination. Between quiet parks, historic homes, caves, trails, local farms, and a walkable downtown, there are plenty of ways to relax, explore, and enjoy your time here. Whether you’re in town for a day, a weekend, or an extended stay, these 10 things to do in and around Rochester, MN will help you make the most of your visit.

Share Your Rochester Experience

Have you spent time in Rochester, Minnesota or Olmsted County?
  • Which place on this list are you most excited to visit?
  • Did we miss one of your favorite Rochester spots?
Drop a comment below and share your own tips, stories, or hidden gems. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family who are planning a trip to Rochester, MN. Your share might be exactly what they need to plan a great visit.
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