Location: Winona
Top Things to do in Winona
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What to do and see in Winona, Minnesota (MN): The Best Budget-friendly Things to do
Winona is a city in and the county seat of Winona County, in the state of Minnesota. Located in picturesque bluff country on the Mississippi River, its most noticeable physical landmark is Sugar Loaf. The city is named after legendary figure Winona, said to have been the first-born daughter of Chief Wapasha (Wabasha) III. The population was 27,592 at the 2010 census.
Restaurants in Winona
1. Garvin Heights City Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 271 reviews
A scenic overlook where visitors can see from Lake Pepin to Mount Trempealeau.
Reviewed By fgut13 - Salt Lake City, United States
If you're in Winona, take a quick drive up to the Garvin Heights City Park. It offers such gorgeous views of Winona. The parking lot and trail is paved, making it great for families and everyone!
2. Minnesota Marine Art Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 487 reviews
Reviewed By markgregory
I have lived in this area for 30+ years and just decided to go here on whim. I was amazed at what an extensive and impressive collection they have. I was expecting only marine themed works, and was stunned to see Renoir, Monet, Van Gogh, Hopper, Wyeth, and on and on. The marine art was really exceptional, and even the works by the masters had some type of marine theme, but if you are just thinking this is a lot of paintings of sailboats, you will be pleasantly surprised. Kudos to the team that has made this possible in Winona, MN of all places.
3. Merchants Bank
4. Lake Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 92 reviews
Reviewed By LynneRabuse - Winona, United States
Lake Park is a lovely park that runs around all sides of two lakes; there is a walking/ bike path around both lakes--it is about 5 miles around both. There are several playground areas, picnic areas, and fishing peers. There is a Frisbee golf course on the north (river) and east side of the lakes. There is a nice visitor center with modern bathrooms and a volunteer to provide info on Winona "happenings." Lake Lodge, on the north side of the big lake, near the large bandshell, is the place to rent kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, pedal boats, bikes, hammocks, ice skates....and more. In the winter, weather permitting, there is an ice rink. For a mere $20, you get a year-long membership and all of the aforementioned are free! Wowza! If you are just here for the day, the cost is $10...but if there is any chance you will be back before the year is out...well, the $20 might be worth it. Wednesday nights in the summer there is an 8:00 band concert by the local municipal band. Some stay in their cars to listen (think drive-in days, those who are from my time) and they show their appreciation by honking. There is only one semi-busy street (35 mph) to cross between the big and small lakes--there are pedestrian walkways, but crosser beware. For locals and visitors, Lake Park is great.
5. Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka
6. Winona Tour Boat
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 247 reviews
View Wildlife, the City of Winona, the magnificent bluffs of south east Minnesota and the mighty Mississippi River from aboard our fully enclosed tour boat. Check availability on our website as cruise length, time and prices vary in relation to cruise highlights. We offer private charters as well as regularly sceduled tours and can configure the boat to accomodate up to 64 people. Most tours are narrated by the knowledgable captain and crew and offer a unique view of the Mississippi River that only decades of navigation can bring. Other "themed tours" offer a relaxing and peaceful venue to reconnect with family and friends. We offer wine/beer tasting tours, pizza cruises, fall color cruises, and many holiday and specialty events so please check our website or call to see what's available.
7. Sugar Loaf
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 45 reviews
Eighty-five foot tall limestone mountain located on a 400-foot bluff.
Reviewed By 408wadea - New Brighton, United States
The highlight of the trip.. trail itself is very good and at the top of the bluff there is a popular rock formation... amazing views
8. Great River Bluffs State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 100 reviews
Overlooking the Mississippi River, this park offers scenic views.
Reviewed By musicm8s - Batavia, United States
Exceptional amenities in a spectacular setting. Hard to believe you're in the Mid West. Campground is lovely, sites are secluded and spread out, and shower facilities are clean and modern.
9. Polish Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 39 reviews
The mission of the Polish Cultural Institute and Museum is to collect, preserve, exhibit, interpret and disseminate the heritage of the Kashubian Polish Culture. It resides in a three-story building built in 1890 by the Laird-Norton Lumber Company. It also maintains Winona’s Kashubian Polish traditions through events and other initiatives.
10. U.S. Highway 61
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 73 reviews
Considered one of the most scenic drives in America.
Reviewed By mherzberg - Winona, United States
I have been up and down this highway from as far south as Mississippi to my hometown of Winona, and all the way to Duluth, Minnesota.
