In the area:

The largest valley of them all is that of the grand Mississippi River, which reaches its widest spot here at Lake Pepin. Charming river towns--Winona, Wabasha, Lake City and Red Wing--are noteworthy for their 19th-century architecture, antique shops, and numerous bed and breakfast and historic inns. The Cannon Valley Bike Trail (list hiking/biking trails) winds through the countryside between Red Wing and Cannon Falls. Frontenac and Great River Bluffs state parks, plus several city parks, offer scenic overlooks for Mississippi River views. Autumn brings beautiful fall colors and roadside apple stands. At Kellogg is a one-of-a-kind toy shop, with handcrafted and antique toys, and a carousel of whimsical, hand-carved creatures.

Just west of the big river in the far corner of the state is Bluff Country, where quiet villages are tucked in among the wooded bluffs and winding streams. Highlights of the area are the Root River Bike Trail, scenic Beaver Creek Valley State Park, and Mystery Cave and the pioneer Meighan Store, both at Forestville State Park. The towns have an array of craft and antique shops, historic inns and bed and breakfast homes.

Further west amid the rich farmland of the area is Austin. True to its agricultural roots, the city is a major meat-processing center, holding a SPAM Jamboree and dedicating a colorful and fun 16,500 square foot museum, new in 2001, to this well-known product.

The major city of the region is Rochester, known internationally as a medical center--home to the Mayo Clinic. This attractive city has a bounty of shops, plus theaters, a symphony and a full calendar of entertainment. Nearby are the woods and streams of Whitewater State Park and historic Mantorville, a village of restored 1800s buildings.

Colorful fall foliage and roadside apple stands make Hwy. 61 a favorite autumn drive.