We love visiting new communities and our weekend in Mankato, MN was definitely no exception!
Spend the Weekend in Mankato
There’s so much to see and do and you can definitely spend several days visiting. To help you plan your trip we thought we’d put together a list of things you MUST do when you have a weekend in Mankato!
While visiting Mankato this past summer, we did some pretty amazing things! It can be hard to narrow it down, but here is five things we think are the must-do’s.
Eat At the Wagon Wheel Cafe
When visiting Mankato, MN, you’re bound to find some high-end, culinary delights, but our family of four enjoyed the downhome cooking at the Wagon Wheel Cafe! The minute you step inside, you’ll be transported to 1970’s Mankato with a large variety of delicious food on their menu. Choose from breakfast (served all day like a good diner does), burgers, sandwiches, and more! The day we visited, they were also featuring several unique grilled cheese combos, one of which T gave a try (the dill pickle). Whether you choose an omelet, burger, or the club (my recommendation), you won’t be sorry with this cafe food!
Kayaking in Mankato, MN with Bent River Outfitters
Get Ice Cream at Mom & Pops
The Flints love ice cream and Mom & Pops did not disappoint! Not only is the historic building beautifully restored, the ice cream they offer is the best of the best. In fact, you can choose from 32 different super-premium hard scooped ice cream flavors! Or, you can choose from their in-house made gelato or sorbet to cool you off! They also offer several hot drinks as well as 1919 Root Beer from a keg! They really do have something for everyone! I absolutely loved my Espresso Oreo and my guys all raved about their choices! We believe ice cream makes a good trip a great one and Mom & Pops was definitely a highlight of our trip!
The Best Ice Cream Shops in the Midwest
Explore the Art Downtown
I love downtowns that have art and sculptures. I have now added Mankato to the list of favorite downtowns! Not only is there a gorgeous mural along the river wall between historic downtown and the Blue Earth River, there are also sculptures. My personal favorite was the Bison that is located in Reconciliation Park. This park was formed to commemorate the site of the largest mass execution of Native Americans. At this spot, 38 Dakota Indians were hung by the American government. The bison is to pay homage to those Dakota Indians. Nearby is the list of the 38 that were hung as well as a prayer written as well. Strolling downtown, enjoying the art, and eating your ice cream is a great way to relax and unwind!
Visit Minneopa State Park
Minneopa State Park is a highlight of the area! The park has hiking trails, campgrounds, and shelter houses, just like most state parks, but their hidden treasures are multiple! Head to the Bison Drive in hopes of seeing one of the 20 Bison that are roaming free in the park. At the end of that drive, make sure to get out of the car and take in the Seppman Mill. This historic flour mill dates back to 1862 and the views of the Bison Park from this spot are fantastic!
Before you leave the park, make sure to check out the Minneopa Falls! These multiple level falls are breathtaking and my favorite part of the trip! You can explore the trails that lead to the bottom of the falls, or just enjoy the rushing water by sitting on a bench! Either way, they are a don’t miss!
VIP Bowling at the WOW! Zone
If you haven’t read about our trip to the WOW! Zone yet, you definitely need to! But, if you are short on time during your weekend in Mankato, make sure to pick at least one activity here. We recommend the VIP Bowling! While there is traditional bowling, this Suite Bowling is the way to go! Instead of being amongst hundreds of bowlers, you’re tucked nicely into a suite with only 7 lanes in it! Enjoy the couches for lounging as well as lane-side drink & food service! It’s a great experience and a fun way to feel extra special! The food at the Wow! Zone isn’t too shabby either! 😉
The WOW! Zone in Mankato, MN: Good Family Fun
A Weekend in Mankato, MN
Whether you’re looking for a fun family getaway or a couples weekend, there are plenty of ways to fill your 24 hour visit! Between good food, yummy ice cream, street art, and waterfalls, you won’t be bored! And if you have enough time in your weekend, we recommend taking a kayak trip down the Blue Earth River with Bent River Outfitters! But, no matter what you choose, we believe that you will love your weekend in Mankato!
Need a place to stay? We recommend checking out the Courtyard by Marriott!
PIN IT FOR LATER!
This is a fun tour of Mankato! Now I’m ready for some sweet potato fries.
Haha! They were really good! I don’t think I’ve ever had crinkle cut ones other than at the Wagon Wheel!
Great showcase of Mankato! Thanks for sharing! And I am ready for sweet potato fries with Jeni as well!
Thank you!!! We need to have a reunion with sweet potatoes fries!
Ooooooooh! I love that bison statue! And to think that you might see one roaming freely in the park as well? Just perfect!
There is a slight magical feeling to it all!!
Wow this place looks awesome. I would totally have to stop at the Wagon Wheel Cafe, how cool!
The Wagon Wheel is definitely a must stop for not only the food, but the hometown feel!!
I can’t wait to do these things when I visit Mankato! I had no idea about VIP bowling, I like the idea of having a more private space, especially if you have a bigger group already! Plus, local ice cream shops are always the best 😀
It really is nice to have the extra space and not have so much noise! And ice cream is always a winner in our family!
Scrolling through this post and now I can’t stop thinking about sweet potatoes fries from the picture with the sandwich and fries. I need to go visit Mankato!
Mankato is so great! It would make a great family weekend or even a couples getaway! I think your girls would love the kayaking!