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Rochester

Skyline at sunrise over Silver Lake Rochester
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Rochester at sunrise / AB-Photography.US, courtesy Experience Rochester

Where History Meets Innovation

Home of the Mayo Clinic, verdant parks, historic sites and friendly locals, Rochester offers an intriguing array of things to do. Belly up to an ice bar, stroll the halls of an opulent mansion and take in a spectacular performance, all in the heart of southern Minnesota's biggest city.

Shoppers on Historic 3rd Street in downtown Rochester

Head to Historic 3rd Street in downtown Rochester for shopping, restaurants and entertainment

Top Things to Do

Rochester offers a fun lineup of events and activities all year long. Hop on a trolley for a tour of local history—and local breweries. Explore the vibrant arts scene at Rochester Art Center, plus enjoy great shopping, dining and more.

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SocialICE ice sculpture

Ice sculpture on display at the 2018 SocialICE festival in Rochester / Alexandra Petrova/@Rochester_MN

Cool Events

Rochester’s innovative spirit shines during SocialICE, a multi-day event that transforms downtown into a cheery stretch of bars made from solid ice, each with a signature drink.

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Mayowood Mansion Rochester

Mayowood Mansion  / Alexandra & Bharath Photography, courtesy of Experience Rochester

A Lasting Legacy

Tour the sprawling 3,300-acre estate of Dr. Charles H. Mayo, cofounder of the revered Mayo Clinic. The 38-room mansion—the centerpiece of the property—was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970.

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Exterior design of the Mayo Civic Center in Rochester

Exterior design of the Mayo Civic Center in Rochester

A Hub for the Arts

Host to hundreds of performances, special events and conferences each year, the 120,000-square-foot Mayo Civic Center is the region’s premier performing arts venue. Check out upcoming events and more.

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