Location: Winona
Top Things to do in Winona
10 Free Things to do in Winona That You Shouldn't Miss
Winona is a city in and the county seat of Winona County, in the state of Minnesota. Located in picturesque bluff country on the Mississippi River, its most noticeable physical landmark is Sugar Loaf. The city is named after legendary figure Winona, said to have been the first-born daughter of Chief Wapasha (Wabasha) III. The population was 27,592 at the 2010 census.
Restaurants in Winona
1. Garvin Heights City Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 271 reviews
A scenic overlook where visitors can see from Lake Pepin to Mount Trempealeau.
Reviewed By fgut13 - Salt Lake City, United States
If you're in Winona, take a quick drive up to the Garvin Heights City Park. It offers such gorgeous views of Winona. The parking lot and trail is paved, making it great for families and everyone!
2. Yarnology
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 10 reviews
Yarnology is a warm and welcoming full-service yarn shop in beautiful Downtown Winona. Stop in to find your favorite brand of fiber...or to discover lovely new yarns. There is always a spot in the Living Room for you!
3. Merchants Bank
4. Lake Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 92 reviews
Reviewed By LynneRabuse - Winona, United States
Lake Park is a lovely park that runs around all sides of two lakes; there is a walking/ bike path around both lakes--it is about 5 miles around both. There are several playground areas, picnic areas, and fishing peers. There is a Frisbee golf course on the north (river) and east side of the lakes. There is a nice visitor center with modern bathrooms and a volunteer to provide info on Winona "happenings." Lake Lodge, on the north side of the big lake, near the large bandshell, is the place to rent kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, pedal boats, bikes, hammocks, ice skates....and more. In the winter, weather permitting, there is an ice rink. For a mere $20, you get a year-long membership and all of the aforementioned are free! Wowza! If you are just here for the day, the cost is $10...but if there is any chance you will be back before the year is out...well, the $20 might be worth it. Wednesday nights in the summer there is an 8:00 band concert by the local municipal band. Some stay in their cars to listen (think drive-in days, those who are from my time) and they show their appreciation by honking. There is only one semi-busy street (35 mph) to cross between the big and small lakes--there are pedestrian walkways, but crosser beware. For locals and visitors, Lake Park is great.
5. Winona National Bank
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 16 reviews
6. Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka
7. Sugar Loaf
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 45 reviews
Eighty-five foot tall limestone mountain located on a 400-foot bluff.
Reviewed By 408wadea - New Brighton, United States
The highlight of the trip.. trail itself is very good and at the top of the bluff there is a popular rock formation... amazing views
8. U.S. Highway 61
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 73 reviews
Considered one of the most scenic drives in America.
Reviewed By mherzberg - Winona, United States
I have been up and down this highway from as far south as Mississippi to my hometown of Winona, and all the way to Duluth, Minnesota.
9. Watkins Museum and Store
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 99 reviews
Reviewed By mindyash7 - Zionsville, United States
Be sure to visit and load up on Watkins spices, hand soap, and many more items. My favorite is the ground pepper. We picked up their new IPA seasoning too. Cant wait to try it.
10. Winona Visitors' Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 16 reviews
Hours: January 1st-March 31st: Saturday & Sunday: 10a.m.-3p.m., April 1st- October 31st: Monday-Saturday: 9a.m. - 5p.m. Sunday: 11a.m. - 4p.m., November 1-December 31: Saturday & Sunday: 10a.m.-3p.m. Stocked with area maps and information, uniquely Winona gifts, and a friendly, knowledgeable staff, our Visitor Center on the shores of Lake Winona is the perfect jumping-off point for any Winona adventure.
