Things To Do
in New Ulm
New Ulm is a charming city located in southern Minnesota, USA. Known for its strong German heritage, the city features beautiful architecture, festivals, and traditions that celebrate its cultural roots. Visitors can explore historical sites such as the Hermann Heights Monument and Schell's Brewery.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities like hiking in Flandrau State Park or boating on the Minnesota River.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $12 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Glockenspiel, a famous clock tower that features animated figures and musical performances. Grab a hearty breakfast at a local café to fuel your day.
Take a stroll through the beautiful Fort Ridgely State Park, where you can explore the trails and enjoy the natural scenery. Don't miss the chance to visit the historic Minnesota River Valley.
Enjoy dinner at a German restaurant in New Ulm, where you can savor traditional dishes and perhaps a local brew. Cap off the night with a relaxing walk along the riverfront.
Rent a bike and explore the scenic biking trails around New Ulm. The early morning is perfect for spotting wildlife.
Visit the Schell's Brewery for a guided tour and sample some local craft beers. Pair your tasting session with a light lunch from the brewery's menu.
Relax at a nearby park or on the banks of the river while enjoying your favorite drink. Watch the sunset for a lovely end to your day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich German heritage and culture, evident in festivals like Oktoberfest and traditional foods.
- Strong sense of community with various local events and activities.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including parks and access to the Minnesota River.
- Low cost of living compared to national averages, making it more affordable to live here.
- A good educational system with local schools and community college options.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, leading to reliance on nearby larger cities for employment.
- Harsh winter weather can be a deterrent for some residents.
- Limited shopping and dining options compared to larger urban areas.
- Access to healthcare facilities can be more limited than in larger cities.
- Potential for a slower pace of life that may not appeal to everyone.
Best Activities in New Ulm
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore scenic trails that offer views of the Cottonwood River and a chance to observe local wildlife in their natural habitat.
Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the picturesque Minnesota River, with several trails that cater to all skill levels.
Spend a relaxing day fishing in the Cottonwood River, known for its diverse fish species including catfish and bass.
Gather with family and friends at German Park for a delightful picnic, with ample green space and playgrounds for children.
Engage in outdoor sports and activities at this comprehensive recreation center featuring playing fields, courts, and seasonal events.
Discover a variety of bird species in their natural habitat at this serene sanctuary, perfect for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts.
Take a stroll or enjoy outdoor games in this park that features walking paths, open fields, and a splash pad for kids.
Experience the beauty of the Minnesota River from the water with kayaking opportunities that cater to all levels of paddlers.
Challenge yourself on this 18-hole disc golf course set in a scenic area ideal for both novices and experienced players.
Enjoy a leisurely scenic drive through the countryside surrounding New Ulm, showcasing beautiful landscapes and seasonal colors.
Tours
Uncover the best of New Ulm with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in New Ulm
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful park featuring scenic views of the Minnesota River, perfect for picturesque sunsets and outdoor photography.
Located along the river bluffs, this park offers stunning views of the river and countryside, ideal for nature photography.
An open park showcasing various sculptures and art installations, creating unique photo opportunities throughout the landscape.
A historic monument offering a panoramic view of New Ulm from its viewing platform, a great spot for both photos and city views.
Features a historic cannon and expansive green spaces, providing a charming backdrop for photography.
This park boasts beautiful gardens and natural landscapes, perfect for lush and colorful photography.
A scenic park that offers trails, a pond, and picnic areas, ideal for capturing nature and outdoor moments.
Food in New Ulm
New Ulm Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A marinated pot roast often served with red cabbage, sauerkraut, and potato dumplings. Best enjoyed at Veigel's Kaiserhoff.
Must-Try!
Bratwurst slow-cooked in Schell's beer, often served with sauerkraut and mustard. Available at The Starkeller.
A tangy and warm potato salad made with bacon, vinegar, and sugar. Not to be missed at Lola - An American Bistro.
Unique Experiences
Get to know New Ulm better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A seasonal market offering fresh local produce, artisanal cheeses, homemade jams, and baked goods. Open on Saturdays from May to October.
A quaint street food vendor famous for serving delicious homemade bratwurst and sausages grilled to perfection.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
New Ulm is known for its strong German heritage, so participating in or showing appreciation for local traditions such as Oktoberfest or the annual Bavarian Blast Festival can help you connect with the community.
In a small town like New Ulm, people value politeness and friendliness. Make an effort to greet locals with a smile, say 'hello', and engage in small talk, as this is often appreciated.
Showing respect for the community by supporting local shops, restaurants, and events helps foster a sense of belonging and demonstrates appreciation for the town's economy and culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of New Ulm with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in New Ulm
Ensure a smooth experience
In New Ulm, Minnesota, tipping practices are generally in line with national trends in the United States. It is customary to tip service workers such as waitstaff, bartenders, and delivery personnel. The standard tip ranges from 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service provided. Some residents may also tip for services such as haircuts, taxi rides, and hotel staff. Tipping is seen as a way to show appreciation for good service.
Payment methods in New Ulm are varied and modern, with businesses accepting cash, credit cards, and mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Wallet. Local restaurants, shops, and service providers typically offer card payment as a standard option. Some establishments may have minimum purchase amounts for credit card transactions, and cash remains a common method of payment, especially in smaller, local businesses. Digital payment systems are increasingly popular among younger residents.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into New Ulm.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in New Ulm is a beautiful time as flowers bloom and the weather begins to warm up. Expect temperatures to range from 40°F to 70°F. This is an ideal time for outdoor activities and festivals, particularly the annual New Ulm Spring Market.
Summer in New Ulm is warm and vibrant, with temperatures generally between 60°F and 85°F. This is the peak tourist season, making it a great time to enjoy local events, parks, and outdoor dining. The annual Oktoberfest celebration in late summer brings a lively atmosphere.
Autumn showcases stunning fall foliage, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 70°F. It's a great time for hiking and enjoying the scenic views. The Harvest Festival is a highlight of this season, showcasing local culture and food.
Winter in New Ulm can be cold, with temperatures ranging from 10°F to 30°F. Expect snow and winter activities like sledding and ice skating. The holiday season brings festive decorations and events, including Christmas markets and winter festivals.
New Ulm at Night
Hiking in New Ulm
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A state park that offers a variety of hiking trails through picturesque landscapes, featuring wooded areas and riverside views.
Home to beautiful waterfalls and unique geological features, this park offers several trails for hiking, as well as opportunities for wildlife viewing.
A scenic area with trails around the lake, perfect for both hiking and enjoying nature. The trails are suitable for all skill levels.
Features hiking trails that wind through woodlands and offer views of lakes, making it a great spot for a peaceful hike.
Offers trails that are great for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the park, along with well-maintained paths.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into New Ulm through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach New Ulm by plane.
Located approximately 95 miles northeast of New Ulm, MSP is the largest international airport in Minnesota, serving as a hub for both domestic and international flights.
About 95 miles east of New Ulm, Eau Claire Airport offers regional flights and is the nearest airport with limited international connections.
Located approximately 70 miles southeast of New Ulm, RST serves as a regional airport with some international services.
Approximately 160 miles southwest of New Ulm, Sioux Falls Regional Airport provides access to a variety of domestic and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly of European descent.
Individuals with origins from Spanish-speaking countries.
Individuals with African ancestry.
Individuals with origins from Asian countries.
Indigenous peoples of the Americas.
Includes individuals not classified in the above groups.
The Soul of New Ulm
Discover the essence of New Ulm through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
New Ulm has a rich baseball tradition, featuring local teams and youth leagues, and is known for its strong community support for the sport.
Ice hockey is popular in New Ulm, with youth programs and high school teams actively participating in regional competitions.
American football draws significant interest, with local high school teams that engage the community during the fall season.
Soccer has been growing in popularity among youth and adults in New Ulm, with various leagues and clubs available for participation.
Softball is a popular recreational sport in New Ulm, with many leagues for both men and women and community tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting New Ulm.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan options, including creative salads, veggie wraps, and plant-based entrees.
Most eateries in New Ulm provide gluten-free alternatives, such as gluten-free buns for burgers and sandwiches, as well as gluten-free pizza crusts.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of New Ulm with these cultural adventures.
