Attractions and Places To See around Owatonna - Top 13
Best attractions and places to see around Owatonna include historical landmarks, natural areas, and cultural sites. The region features woodlands, prairies, and wetlands, offering opportunities for outdoor activities. Owatonna is known for its unique architectural heritage and preserves local history through various museums and villages. Visitors can explore a diverse range of experiences, from nature reserves to historical buildings.
Best attractions and places to see around Owatonna
- The most popular attractions is Trailhead of the Rice Lake State Park Hiking…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Trailhead of the Rice Lake State Park Hiking Club Trail
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Morehouse Park
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Village of Yesteryear
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Dartts Park
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Arched bridges spanning Maple Creek
Ballfield
Barge
Bathing houses
Boathouse
Children’s playground
Pleasure resort …
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boat launch
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Popular around Owatonna
Tips from the Community
A big park along the Straight River with a cool skate park, small BMX area, neat looking warming house, ballfields, boat launch, etc.
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A neat collection of buildings collected from lots of different towns forms a village. The historical society gives tours of the buildings, and during the Fair they open them all up. They are all furnished too. It's pretty neat.
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This year the cattails have been growing in so thick that it hasn't been passable by kayaks and paddleboards. Still nice to see the water.
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Village of Yesteryear is a fun walk. If you come on Wednesdays during the summer you can go on a guided tour where you get to go inside all the buildings. They are fully stocked with period stuff, it's pretty interesting. They are also open during the Steele County Free Fair from what I understand.
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Nice place to hike, especially after paddling the lake. One of the only lakes on the East side of Highway 35 in SE Minnesota. This park gets a lot of water fowl coming through. It's a small park, but a nice afternoon place to visit.
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Mr. Edward Dartt had originally owned this parcel, which he termed “Dartts Paradise.” He had developed: Arched bridges spanning Maple Creek Ballfield Barge Bathing houses Boathouse Children’s playground Pleasure resort for older citizens After Mr. Dartt’s death in 1903, the property rapidly deteriorated. After fruitless efforts to sell the parcel to the City, Mr. J.M. Diment bought it in 1907, and it became known at Diment’s Park.
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The City accepted this park, 15.7 acres in size, as a memorial from Dr. Guel and Margaret Morehouse on March 15, 1913 on the condition that the acreage would remain as park forever, and that the City spend $2,500 to upgrade the park. The Warsinski Chalet, which serves as a warming house in the winter, and picnic shelter and meeting facility the rest of the year, was built in 1964. Morehouse Park boasts four lighted hockey rinks, and has long been the site of outdoor ice skating in the city.
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The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has developed a Hiking Club program that features a trail in each of its 68 state parks and recreational areas (https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/clubs.html). Sometimes the trailhead for these hikes can be tricky to find, so here is the trailhead for the Rice Lake State Park Hiking Club trail. There is a marker with a password somewhere along the length of the trail, but I am not going to reveal that. You have to find it yourself!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Owatonna?
Owatonna boasts several significant historical sites. You can visit the Village of Yesteryear, which is part of the Steele County Historical Society, featuring 19 historical structures and offering guided tours during summer. Another unique site is the Minnesota State Public School Orphanage Museum, the only one of its kind, telling the story of orphaned children from 1886 to 1945. The Historic Downtown also showcases buildings from 1876 to the late 1950s, including the Steele County Courthouse and Firemen's Hall.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Owatonna?
Yes, Owatonna offers several family-friendly attractions. Morehouse Park and Dartts Park are both great for families, offering various recreational facilities. For animal lovers, the RAD Zoo (Reptile and Amphibian Discovery Zoo) provides an opportunity to see a variety of reptiles and amphibians. During warmer months, River Springs Water Park is a popular destination for cooling off with slides and a lazy river.
Where can I experience nature and outdoor activities in Owatonna?
For nature enthusiasts, Owatonna offers several options. Mineral Springs Park is known for its walking trails, gardens, and a natural mineral spring. Kaplan's Woods Parkway provides over 225 acres of woodlands, prairies, and wetlands for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. The Leo Rudolph Nature Reserve also features a 1.4-mile loop trail through prairies and woods, ideal for birding and walking.
What unique architectural landmarks can I see in Owatonna?
Owatonna is home to the National Farmers Bank, an architectural masterpiece designed by Louis Sullivan. It's recognized as a premier example of Prairie School Architecture, featuring gold leaf arches, stained glass windows, and Nouveau Baroque art designs. This building, completed in 1908, is a National Historic Landmark and a must-see for architecture enthusiasts.
Are there opportunities for hiking or running near Owatonna's attractions?
Absolutely. You can find several trails for hiking and running. The Trailhead of the Rice Lake State Park Hiking Club Trail offers a pleasant afternoon hike known for waterfowl. Kaplan's Woods Parkway also has trails for hiking and biking. For dedicated running routes, you can explore various options like the Morehouse Park – Owatonna City Parks Trail loop. More details on running trails can be found on the Running Trails around Owatonna guide page.
What parks are available for recreation in Owatonna?
Owatonna features several recreational parks. Morehouse Park is a significant city park with four lighted hockey rinks, making it a popular spot for outdoor ice skating in winter, and pickleball courts. Dartts Park, originally known as “Dartts Paradise,” offers a historical setting for recreation. Mineral Springs Park provides walking trails, disc golf, and picnic areas.
Can I learn about the region's pioneer past?
Yes, the Steele County Historical Society is dedicated to preserving the region's past. Their Village of Yesteryear is a replica pioneer village with 19 historical structures, including the 1868 Dunnell Mansion and the 1899 Milwaukee Railroad Bixby Depot, offering a glimpse into early life in the county.
Are there any water-based activities or attractions?
Lake Kohlmier is a popular spot for summer water activities, offering fishing, boating (including motorized boats, kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards), and a swimming beach with lifeguards. There's a boat launch available for access. Rice Lake State Park, located east of Owatonna, is a significant wetland known for attracting waterfowl and offers canoe camping.
What cultural experiences does Owatonna offer?
The Owatonna Arts Center, located in the West Hills Complex, is a vibrant cultural hub. It hosts rotating art exhibitions, workshops, concerts, and performances by local and regional artists, providing a dynamic cultural experience for visitors.
Is there a good place for birdwatching in the area?
Yes, Rice Lake State Park is an excellent location for birdwatching, especially for waterfowl, due to its significant wetland environment. The Trailhead of the Rice Lake State Park Hiking Club Trail provides access to this area. Additionally, Kaplan's Woods Parkway and the Leo Rudolph Nature Reserve are also good spots for birding.
What is the best time of year to visit Owatonna's attractions?
Owatonna offers attractions year-round. Summer is ideal for water activities at Lake Kohlmier and River Springs Water Park, and for guided tours at the Village of Yesteryear. Spring and fall are excellent for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of parks like Kaplan's Woods Parkway and Mineral Springs Park. Winter provides opportunities for outdoor ice skating at Morehouse Park and cross-country skiing or snowshoeing at Rice Lake State Park.
Are there any unique shopping experiences in Owatonna?
Beyond the local shops in the Historic Downtown, Cabela's is a highly visited attraction. This large retail store is known for its extensive selection of outdoor gear and features museum-quality animal displays in natural habitats, offering a unique shopping and viewing experience.
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