Attractions and Places To See around Faribault - Top 20

Faribault is rich in history. You can visit the Faribault Woolen Mill, established in 1865, for a tour to learn about its 150+ year history. The Historic Downtown Faribault, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offers architecture from the 1880s to the 1950s, with self-guided walking tours available. Don't miss the Mill Park, which features historic mill ruins right on the Cannon River. Other notable sites include the Alexander Faribault House, the Cathedral of Our Merciful Savior, and the Rice County Museum of History.

For nature lovers, the River Bend Nature Center offers 743 acres of forests, prairies, and wetlands with ten miles of multi-use trails and a small waterfall. Just a short drive away, Nerstrand Big Woods State Park preserves a rare 'Big Woods' forest and features the popular Hidden Falls trail leading to a 20-foot waterfall. You can also explore the Cannon River Trout Lily Scientific and Natural Area, home to the endangered Minnesota dwarf trout lily. For water activities, Circle Lake is popular for fishing, kayaking, and boating.

Yes, Faribault offers several family-friendly options. The River Bend Nature Center provides environmental education programs and events suitable for all ages. The Mill Park is a great spot for a picnic and access to bike trails. The Rice County Museum of History offers engaging displays on local history, including an 1850s log cabin. Additionally, look out for the Retro Tilt-a-Whirls scattered downtown, which make for fun photo opportunities, as the Tilt-a-Whirl was invented in Faribault.

Faribault boasts a variety of trails. The River Bend Nature Center has ten miles of multi-use trails. The Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail is excellent for biking and nature walks. You can also access the Milltowns State Trail from the Dundas Trailhead, which follows the Cannon River. Many city trails also allow for walking and exploring, and Mill Park provides direct access to bike trails.

The Paradise Center for the Arts, housed in a beautiful 1929 building, features art galleries with local artists, a theater, and hosts performances and events. As you explore Historic Downtown Faribault, you'll also discover many murals throughout the area, adding to the city's cultural landscape.

Faribault has several unique local spots. You can visit 10,000 Drops Distillery for spirits and cocktails, or relax at Vintage Escapes Winery. For a taste of local history, the Faribault Woolen Mill offers tours. Don't forget to stop by Crack of Dawn Bakehouse for delicious baked goods, or dine at The Depot Bar and Grill, located in an old train station.

Yes, the Cannon River offers several scenic spots. The Mill Park provides views of historic mill ruins right on the river. You can also find a nice bench for a scenic rest at Crossing the Cannon River. The River Bend Nature Center also features the Straight River, offering peaceful natural settings.

The warmer months are ideal for most outdoor activities like biking, kayaking, and hiking. Spring is particularly special for viewing the endangered Minnesota dwarf trout lily at the Cannon River Trout Lily Scientific and Natural Area. Fall offers beautiful foliage, especially in areas like Nerstrand Big Woods State Park. Winter provides opportunities for ice fishing on Circle Lake and exploring trails for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.

While specific accessibility details vary by location, many parks and trails in Faribault offer paved or well-maintained paths. For example, the River Bend Nature Center has trails that are generally accessible. It's always recommended to check individual attraction websites or call ahead for the most current accessibility information.

Faribault is home to a unique natural phenomenon: the endangered Minnesota dwarf trout lily. This delicate flower, Minnesota’s only endemic flowering plant, can be found in the Cannon River Trout Lily Scientific and Natural Area. It's a spring ephemeral, meaning it sprouts, flowers, and produces food in early spring before its leaves fade by early summer.

You can launch a canoe or kayak at the Canoe and kayak landing in Memorial Park, Dundas, which provides direct river access. Additionally, the area around Crossing the Cannon River can also be used for putting in or taking out boats.

Faribault showcases impressive architecture. The Historic Downtown Faribault features buildings from the 1880s to the 1950s. The Shattuck-St. Mary's School Campus is known for its stunning architecture, often described as having 'Harry Potter vibes.' Other architectural gems include the Cathedral of Our Merciful Savior, the Faribault Viaduct (Art Deco and Classical Revival styles), and the Thomas Scott Buckham Memorial Library.