12 Must-See Attractions For Tourists In Owatonna Mn

Owatonna MN, a charming city located in southern Minnesota, is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by travelers. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and abundance of outdoor activities, Owatonna offers a unique blend of modern amenities and small-town charm. If you're planning a visit to this wonderful city, be sure to check out our list of 12 must-see attractions for tourists in Owatonna MN that will leave you spellbound and wanting more!

Steele County Historical Society

Characteristic	Description
Name	Steele County Historical Society
Type	Historical society in Owatonna, Minnesota
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 87
Address	1700 Austin Rd, Owatonna, MN 55060
Phone	(507) 451-1420
Hours	Monday - Closed Tuesday - 10 AM–4 PM Wednesday - 10 AM–4 PM Thursday - 10 AM–4 PM Friday - 10 AM–4 PM Saturday - 10 AM–3 PM Sunday(Easter) - Closed
Profiles

Owatonna is a beautiful city located in Steele County, Minnesota. The city is home to many historical sites and attractions, including the Steele County Historical Society.

The Steele County Historical Society was founded in 1949 and is dedicated to preserving the history of Steele County. The society operates two museums, the Steele County Historical Society Museum and Village of Yesteryear.

The Steele County Historical Society Museum is located on the site of the old Owatonna High School and is home to many artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history of Steele County. The museum's exhibits cover various aspects of the county's history, including the Civil War, World War I and World War II, and the immigrations of different groups to Owatonna and Steele County.

In addition to the museum, the Steele County Historical Society also operates the Village of Yesteryear. The village is a collection of buildings that have been moved to the site from various locations in Steele County. The village contains different buildings that showcase the history of different aspects of life in the county. For example, the village contains a one-room schoolhouse and a blacksmith shop.

The Steele County Historical Society is a non-profit organization that relies on donations and volunteers to help run its operations. The society offers many volunteer opportunities, including working in the museum or the village, helping with events and programs, and much more.

In conclusion, the Steele County Historical Society is an essential part of Owatonna's rich history. The society's museums and exhibits offer visitors a chance to learn about the county's past, and its volunteering opportunities allow people to get involved in preserving this history for future generations. If you find yourself in Owatonna, make sure to visit the Steele County Historical Society and learn about the city's fascinating history.

Owatonna Arts Center

Characteristic	Description
Name	Owatonna Arts Center
Type	Art center in Owatonna, Minnesota
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 64
Address	435 Garden View Ln, Owatonna, MN 55060
Phone	(507) 451-0533
Profiles

The Owatonna Arts Center is a cultural gem in the heart of Owatonna, MN. This community center for the arts features a variety of exhibits, events, and classes for people of all ages and interests.

The center is located in a historic building that was formerly the Minnesota State School for Dependent and Neglected Children. It was renovated in the early 20th century to house the arts center and now includes galleries, classrooms, and event spaces.

The center offers a range of classes and workshops throughout the year, from painting and drawing to pottery and jewelry making. There are also classes and camps for children, as well as outreach programs for local schools.

One of the highlights of the Owatonna Arts Center is the rotating gallery exhibits, which feature the work of local and national artists. These exhibits change every few months and are always worth checking out. Additionally, the center hosts a variety of cultural events, such as concerts and performances, throughout the year.

Visitors to the center can also peruse the gift shop, which features handmade items from local artisans, as well as art supplies and books.

The Owatonna Arts Center is an important part of the community in Owatonna, MN, and provides a gathering space for people to learn, create, and appreciate the arts. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just looking for a fun activity, the center is definitely worth a visit.

Mineral Springs Park

Owatonna, Minnesota is a charming town in Southern Minnesota that boasts a range of attractions and activities for locals and tourists alike. One particular attraction that has been drawing visitors to Owatonna for decades is Mineral Springs Park.

Located on the banks of the Straight River, Mineral Springs Park is a scenic and serene destination that offers a variety of outdoor activities. The park's most famous feature is its natural spring, which was used for medicinal purposes by Native Americans for centuries. The spring was later discovered by settlers in the 1800s and was thought to have healing properties. Today, visitors can still drink from the spring, although it is no longer used for medicinal purposes.

The park also features a swimming pool, tennis courts, horseshoe pits, and a disc golf course. Picnic areas, playgrounds, and miles of hiking trails make it an excellent destination for families. Camping is also available at the park for those who want to stay overnight.

But the most striking feature of Mineral Springs Park is the beautiful waterfall that cascades into the Straight River. The waterfall is a popular destination for photographers, nature enthusiasts, and artists who come to capture its beauty.

Throughout the year, the park hosts a variety of events and festivals that bring the community together. A popular event is the Owatonna Festival of Bands, where marching bands from around the region gather to compete and entertain crowds. The park also hosts outdoor concerts, movie nights, and art fairs.

Overall, Mineral Springs Park is a beautiful and historic destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking for outdoor activities or just a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature, this park is worth a visit when you're in Owatonna, MN.

River Springs Water Park

Characteristic	Description
Name	River Springs Water Park
Type	Water park in Owatonna, Minnesota
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.4 / 209
Address	3065 St Paul Rd, Owatonna, MN 55060
Phone	(507) 774-7370
Hours	Monday - 12–7 PM Tuesday - 12–7 PM Wednesday - 12–7 PM Thursday - 12–7 PM Friday - 12–7 PM Saturday - 12–8 PM Sunday(Easter) - 12–8 PM
Profiles

If you're looking for a hot spot to cool off during the summer in Owatonna, MN, look no further than River Springs Water Park. This outdoor water park offers a variety of aquatic attractions for visitors of all ages, making it the perfect destination for families and groups on a hot day.

Located at 510 Dunnell Drive, River Springs Water Park is home to a wave pool that creates some of the biggest waves in southern Minnesota. The pool also includes a 250-foot water slide and diving board. Kids will love the zero-depth entry area, which is designed with fun, interactive features such as geysers, spray jets, and a dumping bucket.

For those who prefer calm water, River Springs Water Park offers a lazy river where visitors can float aimlessly down a winding water path. The park also has three sand volleyball courts, a large picnic area, and a concession stand that serves up tasty snacks and refreshing beverages.

Safety is a top priority at River Springs Water Park. Trained lifeguards are stationed throughout the park to ensure the safety of all visitors. A variety of floatation devices, including life jackets, are available for those who need them.

Overall, River Springs Water Park is a fun and refreshing attraction in Owatonna, MN. With its variety of pools and attractions, friendly staff, and affordable prices, it's a great place to beat the heat and create summertime memories with family and friends.

RAD Zoo

Characteristic	Description
Name	The Reptile & Amphibian Discovery Zoo
Type	Zoo in Medford, Minnesota
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.4 / 395
Address	6750 Frontage Rd W, Medford, MN 55049
Phone	(507) 455-1465
Hours	Monday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Tuesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Sunday_easter - opens at 11 AM and closes at 5 PM
Profiles

Owatonna, Minnesota is home to many attractions for tourists and locals alike. One of the most popular places to visit is the RAD Zoo, a unique animal education and conservation center.

The RAD Zoo is a family-owned business that opened its door in 2005. The center features over 150 animals from around the world, including reptiles, amphibians, mammals, and birds. Visitors to the RAD Zoo have the opportunity to learn about these animals up close and personal, as many of the animals can be held by visitors.

One of the most popular animals at the RAD Zoo is the alligator. The center has several alligators and visitors can even hold a baby alligator. The RAD Zoo also has a variety of snakes, including boa constrictors and pythons, as well as lizards, including iguanas and bearded dragons.

In addition to the reptiles, the RAD Zoo has a variety of birds, including exotic birds like the cockatoo and macaw. The center also has mammals, including a sassy and playful serval cat.

The RAD Zoo isn't just a fun place to visit; it's also an important center for education and conservation. The zoo does a lot of work to preserve threatened species and educate the public on the importance of conservation. Additionally, the RAD Zoo offers a variety of educational programs, including school field trips and animal camps for kids.

The RAD Zoo is an affordable and exciting destination for families, nature lovers, and anyone interested in learning about the animal world. Located in the heart of Owatonna, it's easy to access and is open year-round. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the unique and unforgettable RAD Zoo.

Owatonna Public Library

Characteristic	Description
Name	Owatonna Public Library
Type	Public library in Owatonna, Minnesota
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 54
Address	105 N Elm Ave, Owatonna, MN 55060
Phone	(507) 444-2460
Hours	Monday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 8 PM Tuesday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 5 PM Wednesday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 5 PM Thursday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 8 PM Friday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 5 PM Saturday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 12 PM Sunday_easter - Closed
Profiles

Located in the heart of Owatonna, Minnesota, the Owatonna Public Library is a comprehensive resource center for information, education, and leisure. The library is well-known for its extensive collection of books and digital media, and is a favorite gathering spot for local residents and visitors alike.

The library has a rich history dating back to 1894 when it was established as a reading room by the local women’s club. Over the years, the library has transformed and evolved, but its core mission of promoting reading and lifelong learning has remained unchanged.

With over 60,000 books, magazines, and newspapers, the library offers a wide range of materials for readers of all ages and interests. From classic literature to modern bestsellers, the library’s collection covers a broad spectrum of genres and topics. Additionally, the library provides access to various databases, digital collections, and e-books, making it easy for patrons to access information and resources from anywhere.

Apart from its impressive collection, the Owatonna Public Library also offers a variety of programs and services for the community. Children’s storytime, book clubs, author visits, and computer classes are some of the many activities that take place regularly at the library. The library also has a room for public use and provides free Wi-Fi.

Another unique feature of the library is its architecture. Constructed in 2004, the building’s design incorporates elements of the renowned architect Louis Sullivan, while still complementing the historic downtown district where it is located.

In addition to its everyday services, the Owatonna Public Library has adapted to the changing needs of the community during the COVID-19 pandemic. The library now offers curbside pickup and virtual programs, allowing patrons to access library materials and participate in online events from the comfort of their homes.

With its impressive resources, beautiful architecture, and commitment to serving the community, the Owatonna Public Library is a treasure trove for bibliophiles and a vital asset for the town of Owatonna.

Owatonna Visitors Center

Characteristic	Description
Name	Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism
Type	Chamber of commerce in Owatonna, Minnesota
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.5 / 4
Address	320 Hoffman Dr NW, Owatonna, MN 55060
Phone	(507) 451-7970
Hours	Monday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 5 PM Tuesday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 5 PM Wednesday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 5 PM Thursday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 5 PM Friday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 5 PM Saturday - Closed Sunday_easter - Closed
Profiles

Owatonna, MN is a charming city located in Steele County, Southern Minnesota. Known for its vibrant culture and rich history, this city offers an abundance of attractions and activities for both locals and visitors alike. One of the most iconic places to visit in Owatonna is the Owatonna Visitors Center.

Located at 113 North Cedar Avenue, the Owatonna Visitors Center is a beautiful historic building that has been standing for over a century. Built in 1901, it was originally the headquarters of the Milwaukee Railroad Company. Now, it serves as a hub for tourists, providing information on the city's attractions, events, and amenities.

The center is open year-round, providing visitors with up-to-date information on the area's points of interest. Inside the center, visitors can find an array of informative brochures, maps, and travel guides. The friendly staff is always ready to answer any questions and provide recommendations on what to see and do in the city.

In addition to being a source of information, the Visitors Center also houses the Owatonna Arts Center. This center features art exhibits from local and regional artists, as well as a gift shop that sells unique handmade items.

The Visitors Center is situated in the heart of downtown Owatonna, which is home to many unique boutiques, shops, and restaurants. Visitors can take a stroll around the city's historic district and enjoy the beautiful architecture and scenery.

Overall, the Owatonna Visitors Center is the perfect place to start your journey in this charming city. With its friendly staff, informative resources, and beautiful location, it's no wonder that it's a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. So, make sure to include a visit to the Owatonna Visitors Center on your itinerary the next time you're in the area.

Owatonna Country Club

Characteristic	Description
Name	Owatonna Country Club
Type	Country club in Owatonna, Minnesota
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.3 / 158
Address	1991 Lemond Rd, Owatonna, MN 55060
Phone	(507) 451-6120
Profiles

Owatonna, MN is a beautiful city located in Southern Minnesota that boasts a number of attractions for tourists and locals alike. One of the most popular destinations in Owatonna is the Owatonna Country Club – a world-class golf club that has been providing golf enthusiasts with the ultimate golfing experience for over a century.

Founded in 1913, Owatonna Country Club was originally just a nine-hole golf course that catered mostly to local enthusiasts. Over time, it grew to become one of the premier golf clubs in the region, offering a full range of amenities and services. Today, the club has an 18-hole championship golf course that is known for its immaculate greens and fairways set among rolling hills, trees, and creeks.

Whether you are a seasoned pro or a beginner, Owatonna Country Club offers golfing facilities that cater to all levels of experience. The course is well-designed, challenging and provides players with a number of hazards to navigate, such as bunkers, water hazards, and strategically placed trees. It is also maintained to the highest standards to ensure the best possible golf experience.

While golf is a major draw for the Owatonna Country Club, it also offers other amenities that make it an ideal destination for families and social events. The clubhouse has a restaurant and bar that serves a variety of delicious dishes and drinks, and there's an outdoor patio for al fresco dining. Events such as weddings, corporate events, or family celebrations can also be hosted at Owatonna Country Club. The staff is professional, friendly and dedicated to making your experience as memorable and enjoyable.

Overall, Owatonna Country Club is a fantastic destination for avid golfers and those looking for a great place to spend time with friends, family, and colleagues. Whether for a quick round of golf or a longer stay, visitors to Owatonna Country Club are assured of a memorable experience.

Owatonna Farmer's Market

Owatonna Farmers Market is a hub of fresh produce and handmade crafts located in Owatonna, MN. This market is a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike who wish to buy fresh, locally-grown food and unique artisanal products. The market is open on weekends and is a great place to experience the charming small-town atmosphere of Owatonna while enjoying some fantastic food and shopping.

The Owatonna Farmers Market is open from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturdays and 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Tuesdays. Located in Central Park, the market features over 25 vendors selling a wide variety of fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products, and baked goods. The vendors are all from the Owatonna area, and their products are locally sourced, ensuring that they are fresh and free from preservatives and pesticides.

In addition to fresh produce, the market also offers a wide range of artisanal products, including homemade jams, jellies, and sauces, as well as handmade crafts such as jewelry, pottery, and woodworking. Visitors can enjoy browsing the unique and creative products while enjoying live music performances by local musicians.

One of the best things about the Owatonna Farmers Market is the friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The vendors are always happy to chat with customers and share information about their products. This creates a sense of community and highlights the importance of supporting local businesses.

The Owatonna Farmers Market is an excellent way to support local farmers and artisans while enjoying a fun day out. Whether you live in Owatonna or are just visiting, make sure to stop by the market and experience the vibrant, friendly atmosphere and sample the delicious, locally-grown produce.

Kaplan's Woods Parkway

Owatonna, MN is a charming city located in the southern part of the state. It’s known for its beautiful parks and natural scenic beauty which attract tourists and locals alike. One of the most popular parks in Owatonna is Kaplans Woods Parkway which is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful escape.

Kaplans Woods Parkway is a 225-acre natural park situated in the heart of Owatonna. It was originally established in the early 1900s as a place to protect the natural beauty of the area. There are many things to do in Kaplans Woods Parkway including hiking, bird watching, biking, fishing, and picnicking. Some visitors come just to relax in the serene and peaceful surroundings.

The park features a variety of trails that are perfect for hikers and bikers of all levels. The trails are well-maintained and offer stunning views of the surrounding woods and wetlands. The park also has a large pond which is great for fishing and canoeing.

One of the unique features of Kaplans Woods Parkway is the variety of wildlife that calls the park home. Visitors may spot everything from deer and foxes to bald eagles and great blue herons. Binoculars are the perfect accessory for spotting the park’s many bird species.

In addition to its natural beauty, Kaplans Woods Parkway has several amenities for visitors. These include shelter houses, picnic tables, and restrooms. There are also several benches throughout the park for those who just want to sit and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings.

Overall, Kaplans Woods Parkway is a must-visit destination when in Owatonna, MN. Whether you’re looking for a place to hike or simply a spot to relax and unwind, the park has something for everyone to enjoy. With its stunning landscape and abundant wildlife, it’s a true gem of southern Minnesota.

Owatonna State School Orphanage Museum

Characteristic	Description
Name	Minnesota State Public School Orphanage Museum
Type	Museum in Owatonna, Minnesota
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 97
Address	540 W Hills Cir, Owatonna, MN 55060
Phone	(507) 774-7369
Hours	Monday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 5 PM Tuesday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 5 PM Wednesday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 5 PM Thursday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 5 PM Friday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 5 PM Saturday - opens at 1 and closes at 5 PM Sunday_easter - opens at 1 and closes at 5 PM
Profiles

Owatonna, MN is a small city located in southern Minnesota. The city is home to various historic landmarks and museums that offer visitors a glimpse into the city's unique past. One such museum is the Owatonna State School Orphanage Museum.

The Owatonna State School Orphanage Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the Owatonna State School, which was once one of the largest and most influential orphanages in the United States. The museum is located on the former grounds of the orphanage, which operated from 1886 until 1945. The orphanage was established as a way to care for children who had no families, and it quickly became a haven for children from all over the state of Minnesota.

The museum is designed to give visitors a sense of what life was like for children who lived in the orphanage. One of the most interesting exhibits is a recreation of a typical bedroom in the orphanage. The room is set up with antique beds and dressers, as well as other items that children would have used during their time at the orphanage. Visitors can see firsthand how the children lived and learn about the daily routines they followed.

Another fascinating exhibit is a recreation of the administrative offices of the orphanage. The room is set up with antique desks, telephones, and other office equipment to give visitors a sense of what it was like to work at the orphanage. Visitors can learn about the various administrative tasks that were necessary to keep the orphanage running smoothly.

Aside from the exhibits, the museum also hosts various events throughout the year. Many of these events are geared towards children, with special activities and games that are designed to teach them about the history of the orphanage. The museum also offers tours, which are a great way to learn more about the history of the orphanage and its impact on the community.

In conclusion, the Owatonna State School Orphanage Museum is a fascinating glimpse into the history of one of the largest orphanages in the United States. With its variety of exhibits and events, it is a great destination for anyone who is interested in learning about the history of Owatonna and the surrounding area.

Village of Yesteryear at the Steele County Fairgrounds

Located in Owatonna, Minnesota, the Village of Yesteryear at the Steele County Fairgrounds is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring local history. Founded in 1967, the village is a unique open-air museum that showcases life in rural southern Minnesota from the mid-1800s to the early 1900s.

The Village of Yesteryear features a variety of historic buildings, each with its own story to tell. Guests can explore a one-room schoolhouse, a log cabin, a blacksmith shop, a general store, and several other structures that have been carefully preserved and restored. The buildings are staffed with knowledgeable volunteers who provide demonstrations and answer questions about life in the past.

One of the highlights of the Village of Yesteryear is the historic church, which was originally built in 1856 and moved to the fairgrounds in 1974. The church was used by several different congregations over the years before falling into disrepair. Thanks to the efforts of volunteers, the church has been painstakingly restored to its original beauty and is now used for weddings and other special events.

In addition to the historic buildings, the Village of Yesteryear also features a variety of exhibits that help bring the past to life. Guests can see antique farm equipment, vintage clothing, old photographs, and other artifacts that help tell the story of life in southern Minnesota.

The Village of Yesteryear is open to the public during the Steele County Fair, which takes place each August. During the fair, visitors can enjoy live music, carnival rides, and other attractions, in addition to exploring the historic village. However, the village is also available for private tours and special events throughout the year.

Overall, the Village of Yesteryear at the Steele County Fairgrounds is a fascinating window into the past of southern Minnesota. Whether you're a history buff or just curious about life in the past, a visit to the village is sure to be educational and enjoyable.

Frequently asked questions