Location: Owatonna
Top Things to do in Owatonna
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What to do and see in Owatonna, Minnesota (MN): The Best Budget-friendly Things to do
Owatonna (/ˌoʊwəˈtɒnə/) is a city in Steele County, Minnesota, United States. The population was 25,599 at the 2010 census. It is the county seat of Steele County. Owatonna is home to the Steele County Fairgrounds, which hosts the Steele County Free Fair in August.
Restaurants in Owatonna
1. State School Orphanage Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 53 reviews
Experience what life was like at this state-run school for orphaned or neglected children. The Minnesota State Public School for Dependent and Neglected Children was built in 1886 and closed in 1945. The museum uses exhibits of artifacts, as well as video and audio stations to tell the story of the more than 10,000 children who came through the school.
Reviewed By workhardplayhard27 - Mantorville, United States
If you take some time here you will get a very complete picture of the history of orphaned/unwanted children in America. Be prepared to be moved to tears at times. If you are a history buff, and want a fuller picture of human services in the 20th century...this is the place to visit. If your interest is further piqued by what you see they have a number of resources for further study. I found this museum to be heartbreaking, yet oh so informative.
2. Prairie School Bank
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 49 reviews
Built in the early 1900s this financial institution features stained glass, murals and ornate chandeliers.
Reviewed By ralphc440
I have been banking here for 32 years under different owners. Every time I enter the bank I am in awe at all the intricacies in the design. I can't imagine how much it would cost to replicate it now. I'm never in a hurry for the tellers as it gives me time to absorb the visual experience. If you are within an hours drive it is worth the detour.
3. Village of Yesteryear
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 26 reviews
In 1962 the Society was offered the Saco Church located 7 miles southwest of Owatonna, and with the support of the Steele County Agricultural Society, the Society permanently leased a portion of the southeast section of the fairgrounds to begin a pioneer village. The original layout was similar to the center of Owatonna and its Central Park, which was originally circular. Thus was established the Village of Yesteryear, which has grown in the years since through the additional move of historic structures, as well as museum buildings built on site.
4. Rice Lake State Park
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 24 reviews
A blend of marsh, lake, meadows and woods and an ideal place for birdwatching.
Reviewed By LuvToTravel0899
We have been going to Rice Lake State Park for years as we live in Owatonna. Personally I like it best in the fall when the leaves are magnificent. I wish more people would take the time to see what it has to offer. We have a cabin on private property on the north side of the lake and one evening watch a deer swim across the lake to the park. Go and visit if you can.
