7 Reasons to Visit Greater Mankato (2024)

7 Reasons to Visit Greater Mankato (1)

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Reeling in the catch of the day / Visit Mankato

Things to Do // Southern Minnesota // Article

By Explore Minnesota

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Here are seven of the incredible reasons to visit Mankato, let's start with the amazing arts and culture scene, along with one of the biggest public art pieces you'll find in the state. Mankato has something for everyone.

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1. Vibrant Arts Community

Just a short drive from Minneapolis— about 75 minutes! —Mankato is a thriving hub of regional theater, music, dance and visual arts programs. Applaud a rousing theater production, peruse a gallery full of work by popular local artists, or reconnect under the stars at an outdoor concert.

In 2020, the internationally recognized, Australian-based artist Guido Van Helton also traveled to the heart of southern Minnesota to help tell the story of Greater Mankato through a massive mural at the Ardent Mills Grain Silos. The largest structure in the City Center portrays a community with a rich heritage, a thriving present, and a future that's full of limitless potential.

Find out more about Mankato's CityArt programming here.

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2. Minneopa State Park

The word Minneopa comes from the Dakota language and is interpreted to mean “water falling twice,” referring to the beautiful waterfalls of the Minneopa Creek. Walk the trail which encircles the falls, leading down a limestone stairway to the valley below. Then ascend the opposite side and enjoy a panoramic view of the valley which reveals the underlying geology of this area.

Other key attractions at Minneopa State Park include Seppmann Mill, a wind-driven grist mill fashioned in German-style from native stone and lumber; oak savanna and native prairie grasslands that overlook the scenic Minnesota River Valley; and a herd of bison that was reintroduced into the park using the very same genetics as the animals Lewis and Clark first gazed upon in the 1830s.

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3. Areas of Historical Significance

Mankato is located at the confluence of the Minnesota and Blue Earth Rivers. Itwas originally named “Mahkato” (meaning greenish-blue earth) by its early inhabitants, the Dakota. Today, many memorials and buildings exist to commemorate the diverse and important history that has shaped the Greater Mankato area, including such must-sees as the R.D. Hubbard House, Blue Earth County Historical Society, Betsy-Tacy HousesandLand of Memories Park.

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4. Trails and Hiking

Whether you’re looking for a serious hike or a scenic stroll, Greater Mankato is home to more than 500 miles of paved trails. Designated a Bronze Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists, Greater Mankato features some of Minnesota’s best bike trails, mountain bike trails and scenic roadways. They include the 13-mile asphalt and crushed stone Red Jacket Trail, which winds through open countryside; the 39-mile Sakatah Singing Hills Trail, which sits along an abandoned railroad; and the Minnesota River Trail that highlights Mankato's prime valley location along the water.

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5. Fun Family Adventures

Looking to enjoy the warm sunshine? Splash around local pools and splash pads. Run, climb, and explore the truly accessible Fallenstein playground. Visit the Children's Museum of Southern Minnesota to expand the minds of kids of all ages. And experience some family bonding with beginner-friendly fishing at numerous parks.

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6. Get Hooked on Fishing!

Whether you are a seasoned angler looking to win a tournament or simply want a weekend fishing getaway with your kids, Greater Mankato has what you are looking for. From shore, boat, kayak or canoe, you can cast your line into the area's many rivers, lakes and ponds and find some of the best fishing available in the upper Midwest.

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7. Outdoor Recreation on the Water

Greater Mankato has several fantastic options for you to get outside and make some waves, whether it's walking along a waterfall or participating in a lake, river or pool activity. There's even an annual Solstice Outdoor Music Festival that features a 90-minute float down the Blue Earth River and back (a.k.a. the Paddle Jam).

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7 Reasons to Visit Greater Mankato (2024)

FAQs

7 Reasons to Visit Greater Mankato? ›

Today, Mankato, Minnesota is soybean crushing capitol of the world. Minnesota Stone is native to the area and used around the world. Most recently, it was used in the outdoor space at the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center's Grand Hall, One Civic Center Plaza, Mankato.

What is Mankato, MN famous for? ›

Today, Mankato, Minnesota is soybean crushing capitol of the world. Minnesota Stone is native to the area and used around the world. Most recently, it was used in the outdoor space at the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center's Grand Hall, One Civic Center Plaza, Mankato.

Is Mankato, MN worth visiting? ›

In addition to the scenic beauty of the Minnesota River, there are numerous lakes throughout the area. Greater Mankato has more than 60 parks and 50 miles of paved trails for walking, biking or skating.

Why do people visit Minnesota? ›

Immerse yourself in the Twin Cities' diversity and rich heritage at these key cultural districts. With serene natural beauty and more lakes than any other county in the U.S., there's plenty of all-ages fun to be had. Get on the water, hit the trails and explore charming small towns.

What is the meaning of mankato? ›

Meaning:blue earth. Mankato, like so many Native American names, is an homage to this vast world around us. This masculine pick comes from mahkahta, a Dakota word meaning "blue earth." It originates from the clay soil found in the Blue Earth River of southern Minnesota.

Why is Mankato called the key city? ›

Emma Davis of Mankato held onto her 1911 convention name badge as a souvenir. In 1925, she submitted it as part of a town nick-naming contest sponsored by The Free Press. “Key City,” said Emma, “is short and to the point.” The slogan grabbed the town's attention and was well received all around.

What are some interesting facts about Minnesota State University Mankato? ›

Founded in 1868, it is the second-oldest member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system and is commonly referred to as the flagship institution. It was established as the Second State Normal School in 1858 and officially opened as Mankato Normal School a decade later.

What are the values of Mankato? ›

Greater Good—Serve for the good of the community and region. Innovation—Embracing new ideas and methods to improve service delivery. Open—Spirit of accessibility in policy making and operation. Neighborly—Concern and compassion for others.

Is Mankato a nice place to live? ›

Mankato is in Blue Earth County and is one of the best places to live in Minnesota. Living in Mankato offers residents an urban suburban mix feel and most residents rent their homes. In Mankato there are a lot of coffee shops and parks. Many young professionals live in Mankato and residents tend to lean conservative.

Is Mankato expensive to live in? ›

The cost of living in Mankato, MN is 3% lower than the state average and 8% lower than the national average. Mankato, MN housing is 22% cheaper than the U.S average, while utilities are about 8% less pricey.

Why is Minnesota so special? ›

Lakes, Lakes, and More Lakes:

Plus, Minnesota is home to one of the country's great outdoor regions—the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, the most protected natural area in the nation—which has over 1 million acres within the Superior National Forest.

Why do people love Minnesota? ›

The North Star State also has a stable economy, a strong job market, a low cost of living and a low unemployment rate. These factors, combined with Minnesota's amazing natural resources, have made the state a highly attractive home for newcomers for the past decade and beyond.

What is the nickname for Mankato? ›

Key City was the nickname for Mankato for many years, and can still be found in the names of several businesses, even though the business might now be located in North Mankato or Lake Crystal! But the city could just as easily have been nicknamed Stone City or Elbow City because it is at the elbow of the river.

How old is Mankato, MN? ›

Mankato, Minnesota
FoundedFebruary 1852
IncorporatedMarch 6, 1868
Government
• TypeCity charter
32 more rows

Is Mankato a real town? ›

Mankato, Minnesota is a major regional center that has been designated as a Metropolitan Statistical Area and has earned several livability awards.

What majors is Mankato known for? ›

The most popular majors at Minnesota State University--Mankato include: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse; Psychology, General; Business Administration and Management, General; Marketing/Marketing Management, General; Finance, General; Biology/Biological Sciences, General; Accounting; Elementary Education and ...

Why is Mankato called Minnesota State? ›

1998. For the fifth time in its history, the University adopted a new name to reflect expanded service to Minnesota and the nation.

Is Mankato State a dry campus? ›

Alcohol is not allowed on campus (including empty alcohol containers - don't bring empty containers as decorations).

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