These Are Fun Things To Do In Zumbrota, Minnesota: The Only One In The World!
From its historic covered bridge to its charming downtown, Zumbrota is a little town in Minnesota with big personality. ๐ #ZumbrotaMN #MinnesotaGems #DayTripGoals
Zumbrota, MN – Nestled in the rolling hills of Goodhue County, Minnesota, Zumbrota is a charming little city with a whole lot of personality. This one-of-a-kind town is the only place in the world named Zumbrota, and boy, does it wear that title with pride!
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 Quick Jaunt from the Cities ๐
If you’re looking for a fun day trip or weekend getaway, Zumbrota is the perfect spot. It’s just a short drive from Rochester (about 20 minutes north) and only an hour straight south from the Twin Cities on Hwy. 52. So pack your bags, hop in the car, and get ready for an adventure!
Where It All Began ๐
Zumbrota’s story starts way back in 1856 when Joseph Bailey and D.B. Goddard claimed this little slice of heaven as their own. The town’s unique name comes from a mix of the French name for the nearby Zumbro River (Riviรจre des Embarras, which means Obstruction River) and the Dakota word “toล,” meaning village. Talk about a melting pot!
A Bridge to the Past ๐
One of Zumbrota’s most famous landmarks is the Zumbrota Covered Bridge, the last functioning covered bridge in the whole state of Minnesota. This beauty was built in 1869, just a year before the railroads rolled into town. Today, the bridge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a must-see for any visitor.
Covered Bridge Park: Fun for Everyone ๐ก
Speaking of the covered bridge, did you know it’s the centerpiece of Zumbrota’s amazing Covered Bridge Park? This place has it all: ball parks, bike trails, a swimming pool, a giant kids’ play structure, camping, and of course, that famous bridge. Oh, and don’t forget the frisbee golf course, skate park, and ice rink in the winter!
A Festival to Remember ๐
Every year on the third weekend in June, Zumbrota throws a party like no other: the Covered Bridge Festival! This community-wide celebration features a grand parade, a spectacular fireworks show, a 5K/10K fun run, a half marathon, and tons of other exciting activities. It’s the perfect time to visit and see what makes Zumbrota so special.
Lights, Camera, Zumbrota! ๐ฅ
Step back in time at the State Theatre, Minnesota’s oldest working movie theater! Built in 1921 for just $38,000, this vintage gem has seen it all, from vaudeville shows and radio performances to silent films and modern-day movies. Today, the Zumbrota Area Arts Council keeps the magic alive with concerts, live theater, and educational events. Don’t miss your chance to catch a show at this historic treasure!
A Library Like No Other ๐
Did you know that Zumbrota is home to the first tax-supported library in Minnesota? The Zumbrota Public Library’s story began in 1868 when settlers came together to share their books and provide entertainment. In 1877, it officially became the Free Public Library of Zumbrota, supported by a one-mill tax. Over the years, the library bounced around town before finding its permanent home in a beautiful 10,400 sq. ft. building on West Avenue in 1995.
Celebrating 150 Years of Awesomeness ๐
In 2006, Zumbrota threw a huge party to celebrate its sesquicentennial (that’s 150 years, folks!). This little town has come a long way since its early days, but it’s never lost its charm or its sense of community.
Famous Faces ๐จ
For a small town, Zumbrota has some pretty big claims to fame. It’s the hometown of Charles Clarence Beck, the chief artist behind the DC Comics superhero Captain Marvel, and Paul Casey “Gus” Bradley, a coach in the NFL. Who knows, maybe you’ll be the next famous face to come out of Zumbrota!
Snap a Selfie with History ๐
Want to take a truly unique selfie? Head over to 391 S. Main St. in Zumbrota and strike a pose in one of Minnesota’s last working payphone booths! It’s the perfect way to capture a bit of history and show your friends just how cool Zumbrota really is.
Tasty Treats and Eats ๐
All that exploring is bound to make you hungry, and Zumbrota’s got you covered. Grab a bite at the Covered Bridge Restaurant and Sports Bar, just off Hwy. 52, for some delicious comfort food. Or head to Main Street and check out the Coffee Mill, serving up home-cooked meals since 1984 (the taco salad is a local favorite). And don’t forget Bridget’s Cafe, where locals swear you’ll find the best burgers, coffee, and pies in town!
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks: Zumbrota, Minnesota, the only one in the world and a town that’s well worth a visit. With its rich history, fun attractions, and friendly faces, Zumbrota is sure to steal your heart and leave you wanting more. Don’t cha know?
๐ฃ Have you ever been to Zumbrota or is it on your Minnesota travel bucket list? What city do you think we should feature next? We’d LOVE to hear from you in the comments section below. โฌ๏ธ
