Things To Do
in Winona
Winona is a small city located in southeastern Minnesota, along the Mississippi River. It is known for its scenic bluffs and outdoor recreational opportunities, attracting visitors for activities such as hiking, biking, and boating. The city is home to several historic buildings and a vibrant arts community, with galleries, theater performances, and music festivals held throughout the year.
Winona also has a strong educational presence, with Winona State University and Minnesota State College Southeast contributing to the city's cultural and intellectual life.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $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 breathtaking Garvin Heights Park, where you can hike and enjoy stunning views of the Mississippi River. It's a perfect spot for a morning picnic.
Head over to the Winona County History Center for a glimpse into the region's rich past. The exhibits are engaging and provide a fantastic overview of Winona’s heritage.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant that specializes in farm-to-table cuisine. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront to bask in the evening atmosphere.
Visit the Minnesota Marine Art Museum to explore exquisite marine artworks. The morning is a great time to appreciate the serene atmosphere and learn about the maritime history.
After the museum, head downtown for some shopping at local boutiques and art shops. Don't miss the opportunity to grab a quick bite at a café that showcases local flavors.
Catch a performance at the Great River Shakespeare Festival if it coincides with your visit. The blend of culture and community will make for a delightful evening.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including the Mississippi River and bluffs.
- Rich cultural and historical heritage with many museums and historical sites.
- Access to outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and boating.
- Strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere.
- Home to several colleges and universities, providing educational opportunities.
- Harsh winters with heavy snowfall and cold temperatures.
- Limited job opportunities in certain industries.
- Higher cost of living compared to nearby rural areas.
- Public transportation options may be limited.
- Potential for tourism-related seasonal fluctuations affecting local economy.
Best Activities in Winona
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy panoramic views of the Mississippi River Valley and hike through scenic trails at Great River Bluffs State Park in Winona.
Explore Winona's natural beauty by biking along the Mississippi River, with several scenic routes and trails available for all levels of riders.
Take in the picturesque landscape of Winona by canoeing or kayaking on the Mississippi River, offering breathtaking views and serene waters.
Experience peaceful and rewarding fishing at Lake Winona, with various species of fish available for catch and release enjoyment.
Tours
Uncover the best of Winona with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Winona
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning panoramic view of Winona and the surrounding bluffs.
A prominent landmark with picturesque views of the Mississippi River and the city.
Features beautiful vistas of Lake Winona and the charming surrounding area.
Food in Winona
Winona Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try local dish, featuring pan-fried freshwater walleye, often served with wild rice and fresh vegetables. Visit The Boat House for an authentic preparation.
Must-Try!
This classic casserole dish combines ground meat, mixed vegetables, and a layer of tater tots, creating a hearty and comforting meal. Sample the best at the Blue Heron Coffeehouse.
Savor a bison burger, showcasing lean and flavorful North American bison meat. The Winona VFW Club crafts exceptional bison burgers.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Winona better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Immerse yourself in the local food culture at the Winona Farmers Market, featuring seasonal produce, artisanal products, and ready-to-eat treats.
Experience a variety of street foods at the Food Truck Frenzy events, offering diverse culinary delights from regional and international cuisines.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Winona, it is essential to be mindful of personal space and to respect others' boundaries and comfort levels.
Politeness and courtesy are highly valued in Winona, so it's important to use 'please' and 'thank you' in interactions and to show consideration for others.
It's important to familiarize oneself with the local customs and traditions in Winona and to show respect for the local culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Winona with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Winona
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Winona, United States is customary and generally expected in the service industry. In restaurants, it is common to leave a tip of 15-20% of the total bill. Tipping is also common for services such as haircuts, taxi rides, and hotel housekeeping.
In Winona, United States, payment for goods and services is commonly made using cash, credit/debit cards, and increasingly popular mobile payment apps. Most businesses, including restaurants, shops, and service providers, accept major credit cards and contactless payment methods.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Winona.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Winona, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. The city comes alive with outdoor activities and events.
Summer is ideal for outdoor adventures, boating on the Mississippi River, and enjoying the numerous festivals and events in Winona.
Fall is stunning in Winona, with the changing colors of the leaves creating a beautiful backdrop for hiking, biking, and enjoying the local fall festivals.
Winter in Winona is cold and snowy, but it also offers opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing, as well as festive holiday events.
Winona at Night
Hiking in Winona
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park offering various hiking trails with stunning views of the Mississippi River and unique bluff formations.
This forest offers a network of trails for hiking, surrounded by dense woodlands and wildlife.
Features a series of hiking trails with challenging terrain and beautiful vistas overlooking the Mississippi River.
A multi-use trail ideal for hiking, running, and biking that runs through scenic landscapes along the river.
Offers a diverse range of trails that wind through beautiful bluffs, woodlands, and along the river, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Winona through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Winona by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in Minnesota, located approximately 90 miles northwest of Winona.
One of the major airports in the United States, located about 350 miles southeast of Winona.
Located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, approximately 270 miles east of Winona.
Located in Des Moines, Iowa, about 260 miles southwest of Winona.
Located in Kansas City, Missouri, around 400 miles to the south of Winona.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Winona, primarily consisting of individuals of European descent.
A significant population in Winona, encompassing individuals of Hispanic or Latino origin.
A smaller yet vibrant community of Black or African American individuals.
Includes individuals of Asian descent, contributing to the diversity of Winona.
Individuals who identify with two or more racial categories.
A small but important group representing the indigenous peoples of the region.
The Soul of Winona
Discover the essence of Winona through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is a popular sport in Winona, with local schools hosting competitive teams and community leagues.
Soccer is widely played among youth and adults in Winona, with various leagues operating throughout the year.
Baseball has a long-standing tradition in Winona, with many youth and amateur teams participating in local competitions.
Ice hockey is a popular winter sport in Winona, with opportunities for both youth and adult players in various leagues.
Cross country running is favored in Winona, with numerous local events and high school teams competing.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Winona.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most local eateries accommodate vegetarians and vegans, with menus featuring plant-based dishes like Buddha bowls, veggie wraps, and tofu stir-fries.
Many establishments offer gluten-free alternatives, such as gluten-free pizza crusts, pasta dishes, and dedicated gluten-free bakery items.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Winona with these cultural adventures.
