New Prague, Minnesota: Where Czech Heritage Meets Friendly Midwestern Charm
⛳ Discover New Prague, MN: where Czech heritage, local spirits, and stunning golf greens come together in one unforgettable experience! 🍺 #NewPragueMN #CzechItOut #Minnesota
New Prague, MN – A small city nestled in the rolling hills of southern Minnesota, New Prague offers visitors a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its strong Czech heritage and a vibrant community spirit, this little town has something fun for everyone.
This article is part of our ongoing blog series and weekly podcast, Don’t Cha Know: Minnesota A to Z, where we explore fun cities throughout the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Minnesota has 87 counties with 853 cities. Uff da, we just realized we’re gonna be busy doing this for awhile! LOL. Wanna listen to this article? Check out the podcast!
🏰 A Town Steeped in History
New Prague was founded in 1856 by Anton Philipp, a German settler who purchased 160 acres of land in what was then known as Helena Township. Shortly after, several Bohemian families arrived, and the town began to take shape. The name “New Prague” was chosen to honor the capital city of Bohemia (now the Czech Republic), reflecting the strong Czech influence in the area.
Ready to be confused? Even though it’s spelled the same way as the Czech Republic city Prague, it’s not pronounced that way by Minnesotans. Locals say the word “prayg” instead of “prog”. Perhaps a better way to think about it: say the first half of the word “pregnant”. Now you’re fitting in! LOL.
Back to history: as the town grew, so did its infrastructure. The arrival of the Minneapolis & St. Louis Railway in 1877 was a game-changer, connecting New Prague to the outside world and boosting its agricultural industry. By the 1880s, the town was thriving, with new businesses, schools, and even an opera hall springing up.
🌾 Celebrating the Harvest
One of the most cherished traditions in New Prague is the annual Dožínky Festival, a Czech harvest celebration that pays homage to the town’s roots. Picture a lively procession of farmers and villagers, carrying a wreath made from the last sheaf of harvested grain, as they make their way through the streets. It’s a sight that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time!
2024 is a special year for New Prague’s Dožínky Festival: it’s the 40th Anniversary of this fun event. Mark your calendars for September 19 to 21, 2024. Find out more info on the event website here.
🍷 Sip and Savor at Next Chapter Winery
For a taste of local flavor, head to Next Chapter Winery, a family-owned boutique winery that crafts barrel-aged wine and spirits. Nestled among six acres of romantic vineyards, this winery is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a glass of wine with friends. Whether you’re looking to host a special event or just want to treat yourself to a wine tasting, Next Chapter Winery has you covered.
🍻 Raise a Glass at Giesenbräu Bier Co.
If you’re more of a beer enthusiast, Giesenbräu Bier Co. is the place for you. This family-owned brewery specializes in fresh, locally crafted lagers and ales with a nod to German tradition. The name “Giesenbräu” (pronounced “GHEE-sen-broy”) may be a bit of a tongue-twister, but their beers are easy to love.
⛳ Tee Off at CreeksBend Golf Course
For the golf enthusiasts, CreeksBend Golf Course is a must-visit. This 18-hole championship course, designed by Joel Goldstrand, offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. With its winding creek, lush woodlands, and rolling hills, CreeksBend is a feast for the eyes as well as a test of your golfing prowess. And after a round, be sure to stop by the clubhouse – a converted 1940s barn – for a bite to eat and a cold drink.
🍔 Indulge in Comfort Food
No visit to CreeksBend Golf Course would be complete without a visit to their restaurant. If you’re in the mood for comfort food, you can’t go wrong with the cheese tots (my hubby Jack’s favorite) or the green olive burger (served with cream cheese, trust us on this one!). These dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling happy and content.
🌞 A Town That Will Warm Your Heart
New Prague may be small, but it’s big on charm, history, and hospitality. From its vibrant festivals to its welcoming wineries and breweries, this little town has a way of making you feel right at home. So why not plan a visit and discover the magic of New Prague for yourself? We promise you won’t be disappointed! Happy travels.
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🗣 Have you ever been to New Prague or is it on your Minnesota travel bucket list? What MN town do you think we should feature next? We’d LOVE to hear from you in the comments section below. ⬇️
