Minnesota River Valley National Scenic Byway
A 287-mile drive through south-central Minnesota takes you through river towns and by orchards and vineyards.
Near Redwood Falls. Photo credit Explore Minnesota Tourism
Minnesota River Valley. Photo credit Explore Minnesota Tourism
Near Redwood Falls. Photo credit Explore Minnesota Tourism
River towns line this lesser-known 287-mile drive through south-central Minnesota. In Belle Plaine, pick apples at Emma Krumbee’s orchard and restaurant. Look for eagles around Le Sueur (home of the Jolly Green Giant) and St. Peter (a vibrant college town). In German New Ulm, toast the harvest at Schell’s Brewing Company or Morgan Creek Vineyards, which serves wood-fired pizzas.
Secret falls: Near Mankato, waterfalls hide on both sides of the river: Minnemishinona Falls along Judson Bottom Road and Minneopa Falls in the state park off State-68 on the south side.
For maps and trip planning
Minnesota River Valley National Scenic Byway [1]