35 Things To Do in Mankato

Mankato reveals a city filled with natural beauty and culture. With attractions that appeal to both outdoor enthusiasts and arts lovers, Mankato offers a unique blend of scenic landscapes and lively community events.

Visitors can look forward to an enriching experience through its parks, trails, historic sites, and cultural venues. Mankato is a destination that leaves a lasting impression with its charm and variety.

Minneopa State Park

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Minneopa State Park promises visitors an amazing experience with its stunning natural features. The park’s main attractions are the dramatic Minneopa Falls, a two-tiered waterfall that offers picturesque views, perfect for photography enthusiasts. Guests can explore 4.5 miles of hiking trails, each showcasing different aspects of the area’s diverse natural landscape.

Walking the trail around the waterfalls provides a unique vantage point, allowing visitors to appreciate the geological formations and the serenity of the cascading water. For those interested in history, the Seppmann Mill, a historic site within the park, offers a glimpse into Minnesota’s past.

Sibley Park Zoo

Our Rating: 8.4/10

Sibley Park Zoo features a variety of farm animals that visitors can interact with. Children particularly enjoy feeding these animals, which adds an interactive element to the visit. The experience is made even more enjoyable by the zoo’s well-maintained and clean environment.

In addition to animal interactions, the zoo provides educational opportunities about farm life, making it both fun and informative. This balance of entertainment and education makes the zoo a perfect destination for a family outing or a day trip with kids.

Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota is an educational destination that sparks excitement in kids of all ages. This museum offers a range of interactive exhibits designed to engage young minds. From the Math Happens program in Cecil’s Imagineering Loft to hands-on puzzles and models, visitors can explore math concepts in a playful environment.

With exhibits that contribute to children’s development, every visit promises new discoveries. Families can engage in activities that stimulate creativity and curiosity, making it a vital resource for the community.

Old Main Village

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Old Main Village gives a unique blend of historic charm and modern living, set within an old college facility. Residents will appreciate the wide corridors and beautifully remodeled apartments. This senior living community provides a range of engaging activities, ensuring a fulfilling lifestyle.

From enjoying in-house amenities like a beauty shop and barbershop to social gatherings with fellow residents, there’s always something happening here. The community encourages interaction and aims to enrich the lives of its residents, making it a wonderful place to call home.

Red Jacket Trail

Our Rating: 8.5/10

This versatile trail offers 11.7 miles of pure enjoyment for biking, walking, and running. It features breathtaking views with three impressive railroad trestles, including the iconic Red Jacket Trestle, which stands over 80 feet high. The path winds through beautiful wooded areas, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in nature.

This popular trail is accessible year-round, providing opportunities to soak in the vibrant colors of fall, the fresh blooms of spring, or the winter’s quiet elegance. Whether you’re an avid biker or enjoy casual strolls, Red Jacket Trail is an excellent destination to experience the natural beauty of Minnesota.

Carnegie Art Center

Our Rating: 8.3/10

The Carnegie Art Center is a cornerstone of Mankato’s artistic landscape, offering a rotating showcase of local talent. This gallery brings together a diverse collection of paintings, sculpture, and woodworking.

Visitors can immerse themselves in thought-provoking art exhibitions that change frequently, providing new experiences with each visit. The center also houses artist studios, making it a dynamic space where creativity flourishes.

Mount Kato Ski Area

Our Rating: 8.3/10

Mount Kato Ski Area is a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a variety of winter activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. These adventures cater to all experience levels, from beginners to advanced riders, ensuring a thrilling experience for everyone.

Beyond winter sports, Mount Kato offers mountain biking trails for summer visitors who are seeking adventure on two wheels. With a lively atmosphere, the resort also features après-ski activities that provide relaxation after a day of excitement.

Betsy & Tacy’s House Tours and Gift Shop

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Betsy & Tacy’s House celebrates the world of Maud Hart Lovelace’s beloved children’s books. Visitors can explore the charming childhood homes of Betsy and Tacy, which are now part of an engaging museum experience. Each room captures the essence of early 20th-century life, with carefully curated exhibits and period furnishings that whisk you back in time.

The gift shop here is a treasure trove for fans, showcasing books and themed memorabilia. It’s a delightful stop for families, literature enthusiasts, or anyone interested in historical homes, providing a fun, educational outing that combines storytelling with a tangible connection to history.

Minnesota State University, Mankato

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Minnesota State University provides a dynamic blend of academic and extracurricular experiences. Through the Integrated Business Experience program, students can engage in entrepreneurial projects, providing hands-on learning in a supportive setting.

Additionally, being a Community Advisor allows them to develop leadership skills by guiding new students through their transition to college life. Numerous clubs and organizations on campus cater to diverse interests, fostering a sense of community and shared values.

Riverfront Park

Our Rating: 8.7/10

Riverfront Park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. It features an amphitheater that hosts various events, including the popular Ribfest. Families can enjoy a spacious playground, ensuring fun for children.

Adventurous spirits can access the river for kayaking and canoeing. Furthermore, the park’s trails are ideal for hiking and biking, connecting to the North Minnesota River Trail. Facilities like restrooms and open-air shelters add to visitor convenience, making Riverfront Park a superb destination for leisure and excitement.

Mankato Brewery

Our Rating: 8.8/10

Mankato Brewery is a favored locale for those eager to appreciate quality craft beer. Visitors can step into the taproom, bustling with activity and offering a selection of 12 draught lines. The brewery provides a unique experience, letting guests enjoy their drinks right amongst the brewing tanks, creating an authentic and engaging atmosphere.

Events often fill the brewery calendar, providing chances to explore new beers and flavors. The facility also features a merchandise shop for those who wish to take a piece of the experience home. Insight into the brewing process is easily gained through casual observation or friendly conversations with the knowledgeable staff.

North Links Golf Course

Our Rating: 8.5/10

North Links Golf Course is an inviting destination for golf enthusiasts. Open to the public and skillfully designed by Patrick Wyss in 1992, it offers a pleasant golfing experience. Spanning approximately 6,133 yards, the course provides a par of 72, with a course rating of 69.1 and a slope rating of 117 on Bluegrass.

Managed by the Wilson Golf Group with Michael Thomas, PGA, as the Golf Professional, it ensures quality service and facilities. Golfers can enjoy the beautifully maintained greens and fairways while taking advantage of the practice facilities and clubhouse amenities.

Kiwanis Recreation Area

Our Rating: 8.8/10

Kiwanis Recreation Area is a versatile outdoor destination perfect for families and nature enthusiasts. The park’s vast 100-acre landscape accommodates a variety of activities. Two dedicated dog park areas offer great spaces for dogs to play off-leash, ensuring a fun time for your furry friends.

The park’s river access is ideal for canoeing and kayaking, inviting visitors to engage in water-based activities and connect with nature. An archery range caters to archery enthusiasts eager to practice their skills in a serene setting.

Rasmussen Woods

Our Rating: 9.1/10

Rasmussen Woods features over five miles of trails, ideal for both novice and seasoned hikers. Varied terrains offer experiences across wood-chipped paths, marshy creeks, and scenic meadows. With an array of wildlife and birding opportunities, it’s a delight for nature enthusiasts. Hikers can explore the dolomite cliffs and a remote pond, discovering the natural beauty at each turn.

The trails are considered moderately challenging, offering a bit of adventure for those seeking a more engaging hike. Spring and fall are particularly lovely, with vibrant foliage and migrating birds. These trails are suitable for walking, running, and casual strolls, providing a refreshing change from urban life.

Benson Park

Our Rating: 8.4/10

Benson Park offers a delightful escape with its welcoming atmosphere and various activities. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk along its well-maintained trails surrounded by scenic greenery. The park features picnic areas perfect for a family outing or a serene lunch in the fresh air.

Children can explore the playground, providing a safe and fun environment for play. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the open fields, ideal for a game of soccer or frisbee with friends. Benson Park provides an enjoyable experience for everyone looking to spend time outdoors in Mankato.

Jack McGowan’s Farm

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Jack McGowan’s Farm is a historic site that offers educational and community-focused events. Spanning 18 scenic acres along the Blue Earth and LeSueur Rivers, the farm is known for its immersive History Fest, an annual October event where visitors can explore different historical eras through reenactments and demonstrations.

In addition to History Fest, the farm hosts weddings, family reunions, and community gatherings throughout the year. The natural surroundings and rustic buildings create a peaceful, nostalgic setting perfect for outdoor events. The farm emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing visitors of all ages to engage with history in a meaningful way.

Bluff Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Bluff Park provides a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts. Spanning 31 acres, this hidden gem offers a mix of old-growth maple and oak forests along the scenic Minnesota River Valley.

Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks and explore diverse ecosystems. For those interested in photography or bird watching, the park’s landscapes and wildlife offer plenty of opportunities to capture stunning moments.

River Hills Mall

Our Rating: 8.1/10

As a key regional shopping center, River Hills Mall features major retail stores and a range of smaller specialty shops, making it a shopper’s paradise. Visitors can enjoy browsing through well-known brands or find unique items from local vendors.

Aside from shopping, the mall provides entertainment for all ages. Visitors can catch the latest movies at the on-site cinema, perfect for a family outing or a break from shopping. The food court offers a diverse selection of dining options, catering to all tastes, from quick bites to sit-down meals.

Mankato Symphony Orchestra

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Mankato Symphony Orchestra has a unique musical experience that combines high-quality performances with a commitment to music education in South Central Minnesota. Attendees can enjoy a range of concerts that include classical masterpieces and contemporary works. This orchestra is known for its engaging events that not only entertain but also educate and inspire audiences of all ages.

Concertgoers can expect to witness performances by talented musicians, including Cecilia Belcher, the accomplished violinist and Assistant Principal Second Violin at the Minnesota Orchestra since 2017. The orchestra also features special events such as Symphony on the Prairie, which provides a delightful blend of music and nature.

Wow! Zone Family Entertainment Center

Our Rating: 9.0/10

With 24 state-of-the-art bowling lanes, families and friends can enjoy friendly competition here or practice their skills. The center also features black light mini golf, offering an immersive experience with its glowing courses. For those looking for adrenaline-pumping action, the industrial-themed laser tag arena provides an exciting challenge.

Beyond these attractions, guests can explore over 40 arcade games, catering to both classic enthusiasts and modern gamers. The scent of freshly baked pizza fills the air from the onsite restaurant, offering a variety of dining options. This dynamic center wraps up every visit with the possibility of hosting memorable birthday parties, live music events, and much more.

Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail offers a stunning excursion for outdoor enthusiasts in Mankato. This 39-mile paved trail weaves through a picturesque mix of farmland, forests, and wetlands. Ideal for cycling and hiking, its gentle path transforms an abandoned railroad grade into a scenic corridor.

As adventurers glide along, they may enjoy the sights and sounds unique to this part of Minnesota. The trail’s natural beauty makes it a favorite for photography and nature study, fostering a sense of discovery at every bend.

South Central College Arboretum

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The South Central College Arboretum promises a refreshing experience for nature enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Spanning several acres, the arboretum features a diverse collection of trees, shrubs, and plants, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing stroll. Visitors can explore various themed gardens, each designed to highlight different plant species and landscaping styles.

It’s a great place for photography, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the changing seasons. Throughout the year, the arboretum hosts educational events and workshops that cater to both gardening novices and experts, providing valuable insights into sustainable landscaping and horticulture.

Mankato Farmers Market

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Mankato Farmers Market is a charming spot to explore fresh, locally-sourced produce and artisanal goods. From ripe, colorful fruits and vegetables to homemade jams and baked delights, the market showcases the best of the region’s agriculture. It acts as a gathering place where local producers interact with the community.

The market is not just about shopping, as it offers a place for friends and families to gather, chat, and enjoy the vibrant community spirit. It’s open during both summer and winter, providing year-round access to quality local products.

The Blue Earth County Historical Society

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Blue Earth County Historical Society provides a fascinating dive into the past of Mankato. Visitors can explore the History Center’s compelling exhibits that showcase the region’s rich heritage, including a delightful exhibition on toys from the 19th and 20th centuries.

The gardens surrounding the house add to the charm, making it a picturesque spot for leisurely strolls. With a variety of events and programs offered throughout the year, there’s always something new to learn about the community’s complex and engaging history.

Minneopa Falls

Our Rating: 8.6/10

Minneopa Falls offers a stunning display of nature’s power with its two-tiered waterfalls. The upper falls drop a gentle 8 feet, setting a serene scene, while the lower falls cascade dramatically at nearly 40 feet, offering remarkable sights and sounds. Visitors can enjoy a scenic trail that leads to a picturesque stone bridge, providing perfect views of both falls.

The sound of rushing water mixed with the fresh air adds to a sensory experience not to be missed. Bird watchers will find a plethora of opportunities, as the area is rich with diverse bird species flitting around.

Rapidan Dam and Powerhouse

Our Rating: 8.4/10

Built between 1908 and 1910, this concrete gravity dam harnesses the river to generate hydroelectric power. Visitors can explore the surrounding Rapidan County Park, offering excellent opportunities for hiking and picnicking. The park’s trails present a chance to enjoy scenic views and capture photographs of the river and dam.

The peaceful setting provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation, with the gentle hum of the powerhouse adding to the experience. The nearby Rapidan Campground allows for a more extended stay, where campers can fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area.

MSU Theatre & Dance

Our Rating: 8.4/10

MSU Theatre & Dance gives an engaging blend of productions that captivate audiences of all ages. With a dynamic lineup, including five Mainstage shows, two full-length dance concerts, and four Studio productions, there’s always something happening. Audiences can enjoy everything from classic plays to contemporary dance performances.

Ticket options cater to various preferences, offering season passes for those committed to catching all the action or individual tickets for casual visitors. The Ted Paul Theatre and Andreas Theatre provide accessible, comfortable venues, complete with accommodations for those needing audio or mobility assistance.

Hub Food Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Hub Food Park brings together a variety of local food trucks in a lively outdoor setting. It offers a diverse range of culinary experiences, perfect for food enthusiasts looking to explore different flavors. During the summer season, visitors can enjoy unique menus that change daily, providing something new with each visit.

The park is not just about food, it’s also a community gathering place that hosts events celebrating local growers and crafters. Music and entertainment are often featured, creating a festive atmosphere for everyone.

Pub 500

Our rating: 8.9/10

Pub 500 is a lively gastropub celebrated for its vibrant community feel. The menu offers a mix of classic pub fare, such as burgers and wings, alongside creative dishes like craft tacos and vegetarian options. The pub also features local brews that pair perfectly with the hearty meals.

Inside, the rustic decor and spacious layout make it equally suited for a casual lunch or a night out with friends. Regular events, including trivia nights and live music, keep the atmosphere fun and dynamic. Outdoor patio seating is a favorite during the summer, offering a laid-back space to enjoy food and drinks.

YCA Skate Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

YMCA Skate Park is an exciting spot for skateboarders of all skill levels. Located at 161 Jaycee Ct, the park features a variety of ramps and rails. It’s an ideal place to practice tricks or enjoy a casual skate session. Enthusiasts can spend hours perfecting their moves or just soak in the adrenaline-filled atmosphere.

With a focus on fostering community among skaters, the park promises fun and engaging experiences. If you’re a beginner eager to learn or a seasoned skater looking to refine your craft, YMCA Skate Park is a must-visit.

Conservators Garden

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Conservators Garden is a delightful stop for anyone interested in botany or simply appreciating the beauty of plants. Visitors can explore a wide variety of plant species, both native and exotic, showcased in meticulously arranged garden beds. The garden offers walking paths where you can take a leisurely stroll and observe the colors and diverse shapes of the flora.

For those with a more hands-on interest, workshops and tours are occasionally available, offering deeper insights into gardening techniques and environmental conservation. This spot is ideal for taking photos or simply enjoying the tranquility away from the buzz of the city.

Hiniker Pond

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Hiniker Pond is a popular local spot offering a sandy beach perfect for a refreshing swim. Visitors can enjoy walking paths that wind through the park, ideal for a leisurely stroll or an energizing jog. The fishing pier is a favorite among anglers, providing an opportunity to catch a variety of fish.

Children will delight in the playground facilities, giving them a chance to burn off energy in a safe environment. Picnicking is also a highlight, with a picnic shelter available for family gatherings or a casual lunch. Pets are welcome on the walking paths, provided they are kept on leashes.

Mankato MoonDogs Baseball

Our Rating: 8.4/10

The Mankato MoonDogs give an exhilarating baseball experience in the Northwoods League. Fans flock to ISG Field, a cozy stadium celebrated for its welcoming atmosphere. The games provide thrilling baseball action complemented by lively entertainment, including fun theme nights and exciting contests.

Families find it easy to engage, thanks to affordable tickets and a range of activities suitable for all ages. The MoonDogs create an unforgettable summer experience, with passionate fans cheering for potential stars on the rise.

Lake Washington

Our Rating: 8.1/10

Lake Washington is a sprawling 1,516-acre gem that invites outdoor enthusiasts to explore its expansive waters and scenic surroundings. With over 13 miles of shoreline, it offers ample opportunities for recreation. Visitors can enjoy activities like kayaking and canoeing, which allow them to navigate the serene stretches of water and take in the beautiful views.

Throughout the year, the area hosts a variety of events and gatherings, adding a friendly atmosphere to the natural landscape. For those who wish to stay overnight, the nearby campground offers a pleasant spot to pitch a tent or park an RV, enhancing the lake’s appeal as a getaway destination.

Pappageorge Restaurant & Bar

Our rating: 8.9/10

Pappageorge Restaurant & Bar is a beloved spot for those seeking expertly crafted American dishes in a laid-back setting. Known for its elevated comfort food, the menu features highlights such as Wild Mushroom Ravioli and their signature Pappageorge Burger.

The interior combines rustic charm with a touch of modern elegance, making it perfect for a casual night out or a cozy date. Beyond its hearty meals, the restaurant boasts a curated selection of wines and local craft beers that pair seamlessly with the menu.

Mankato, combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and welcoming charm, making it a destination that appeals to all visitors. The city’s friendly atmosphere and unique offerings ensure a fulfilling visit. Mankato invites travelers to return and explore even more of its captivating appeal.