Ellendale MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ellendale, Minnesota.
1. Greibroks Mini History Farm
HISTORIC FARMING EXHIBITION
Greibroks Mini History Farm offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the agricultural heritage of southern Minnesota. Visitors can explore vintage farm equipment, historical buildings, and educational displays that showcase rural life from bygone eras. This speciality museum provides an immersive experience for history enthusiasts and families alike.
2. Steele County History Museum
REGIONAL HERITAGE CENTER
The Steele County History Museum preserves and celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Steele County, which includes Ellendale. The museum features extensive collections of artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the region's development from pioneer days to the present. Visitors can explore multiple exhibits highlighting local industries, notable residents, and significant historical events.
3. Minnehaha Falls
STUNNING NATURAL WATERFALL
Minnehaha Falls is a breathtaking 53-foot waterfall situated within Minnehaha Park, making it one of the most photographed sites in Minnesota. Visitors can enjoy scenic walking paths that lead around and behind the falls, offering spectacular views year-round, including winter when the falls freeze into a dramatic ice formation. The surrounding park features historical sites, gardens, and picnic areas perfect for a day trip from Ellendale.
4. Spam Museum
QUIRKY FOOD HISTORY
The Spam Museum offers a playful and informative look at the cultural phenomenon of Spam, the famous canned meat product made by Hormel Foods. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits that detail the history, global impact, and production process of this iconic American food product. The museum features fun photo opportunities, product sampling, and a well-stocked gift shop with unique Spam-themed merchandise.
5. North West Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION AREA
North West Park serves as a central recreational hub for residents and visitors in Ellendale. The park offers various amenities including playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas that make it perfect for family outings and community gatherings. Visitors can enjoy seasonal events and activities hosted throughout the year in this well-maintained green space.
6. Riverside Rendezvous & History Festival
ANNUAL CULTURAL CELEBRATION
The Riverside Rendezvous & History Festival celebrates the rich historical heritage of southern Minnesota through lively demonstrations, exhibits, and performances. Visitors can experience historical reenactments, traditional crafts, period music, and authentic food that bring the region's past to vivid life. This annual event draws history enthusiasts and families from across the state for a weekend of educational entertainment.
7. Faribault's Fantastic Folly Hunt
INTERACTIVE COMMUNITY ADVENTURE
Faribault's Fantastic Folly Hunt offers an exciting scavenger hunt experience that takes participants throughout the historic downtown area. Hunters follow clues that highlight important landmarks, architectural features, and historical sites while competing for prizes. This interactive adventure provides a unique way to discover the charm and history of this nearby town just a short drive from Ellendale.
8. Juneteenth Jubilee
CULTURAL FREEDOM CELEBRATION
The Juneteenth Jubilee commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans with a vibrant community celebration of freedom, resilience, and cultural heritage. Attendees can enjoy live music, dance performances, educational presentations, and delicious food representing African American culinary traditions. This meaningful event brings together people from throughout the region to reflect on history while celebrating progress toward equality.
9. Candlelight Ghost Trolley Tour
SPOOKY HISTORICAL EXCURSION
The Candlelight Ghost Trolley Tour takes brave visitors on a haunting journey through Minneapolis's most notorious haunted locations. Guided by knowledgeable storytellers, passengers hear chilling tales of supernatural encounters, tragic historical events, and unexplained phenomena while traveling in a vintage trolley. This atmospheric experience combines local history with spine-tingling entertainment for a memorable evening excursion from Ellendale.
10. Myre-Big Island State Park
NATURAL LAKE WILDERNESS
Myre-Big Island State Park encompasses over 1,600 acres of pristine natural habitat including woodlands, wetlands, and Albert Lea Lake. Visitors can explore miles of hiking trails, observe abundant wildlife including deer and waterfowl, or enjoy seasonal activities like swimming, fishing, and cross-country skiing. The park's unique island can be accessed by a causeway, offering a sense of wilderness adventure just a short drive from Ellendale.
11. Rice Lake State Park
SERENE OUTDOOR RECREATION
Rice Lake State Park offers peaceful natural surroundings centered around a shallow 750-acre lake known for its abundant wild rice and waterfowl populations. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy bird watching, photography, and seasonal hunting in designated areas, while also accessing boat launches and fishing spots. The park maintains well-maintained camping facilities, picnic areas, and hiking trails that showcase the diverse ecosystem of this glacial lake region.
12. Medford Outlet Center
DISCOUNT SHOPPING DESTINATION
The Medford Outlet Center provides shoppers with access to brand-name merchandise at discounted prices just a short drive from Ellendale. Visitors can browse through multiple retailers offering apparel, accessories, housewares, and specialty items throughout the comfortable indoor mall. The center offers ample parking, food options, and occasional special events that make it a popular destination for locals and travelers alike.
13. Turtle Creek Vineyard
LOCAL WINE EXPERIENCE
Turtle Creek Vineyard welcomes visitors to sample distinctive wines produced from cold-hardy grape varieties specially developed for Minnesota's climate. Guests can enjoy guided tastings in the rustic tasting room while learning about the winemaking process from knowledgeable staff members. The picturesque vineyard setting offers beautiful views, seasonal events, and the opportunity to purchase locally-produced wines as souvenirs of your visit near Ellendale.
14. Owatonna Arts Center
CULTURAL CREATIVITY HUB
The Owatonna Arts Center serves as a vibrant focal point for creative expression in the region surrounding Ellendale. Visitors can explore rotating exhibitions featuring work by local and regional artists across various media including painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media. The center also hosts workshops, classes, and cultural events that engage the community in artistic appreciation and development.
15. Minnesota State Public School Orphanage Museum
POIGNANT HISTORICAL INSTITUTION
The Minnesota State Public School Orphanage Museum preserves the compelling history of the state's largest institution for dependent and neglected children, which operated from 1886 to 1945. Visitors can tour the restored cottage and explore exhibits featuring photographs, personal accounts, and artifacts that document the lives of more than 10,000 children who passed through the school. This moving museum offers important historical context about child welfare practices and social history that shaped the region around Ellendale.