Landmarks of Rochester Minnesota
Historical and social landmarks are important to any town. Rochester Minnesota is no different, with a history beginning as a small frontier town, to now being home to a world renowned medical care facility. Historical and social events are what give a town its foundation and identity. Various locations around town celebrate this history and culture.
Whether one is a resident or visitor, there are countless landmarks worth visiting in Rochester. From learning about the city's history to simply enjoying its outdoor scenery, the town offers a number of different locations to learn and become educated about this town. A few of the most popular landmarks are as follows:
- Mayo Clinic - The Mayo Clinic is a world renowned medical and research center. A visit will offer a chance to see impressive architecture, unique artwork, as well as displays of the Clinic's history and development through the years. The Mayo Clinic is the main employer in Rochester, and has played a major role in the shaping of the city. It is a stop that should not be missed. Free tours are offered daily.
- St. Mary's Hospital - St. Mary's is the starting point of the Mayo Clinic vision. This historic hospital was designed and supported by the Sisters of Saint Francis and became a leading and quality care facility under Dr. William W. Mayo. Without this starting point, the internationally known Mayo Clinic would not exist. Both guided and self-guided tours are available.
- Mayowood Mansion - Former home to Dr. Charles H. Mayo, co-founder of the Mayo Clinic, this impressive mansion still holds original furnishings and a trove of history for visitors. Guided walking tours are available, or simply come to see the residence of one of the most important men in Rochester's history.
- Plummer House - Once home to Henry S. Plummer, this five story house is now one of the most popular historical attractions in Rochester. Plummer was one of the Mayo Clinic staff over one hundred years ago in 1901. His former estate features a forty nine room house, a water tower, and eleven acres of landscaped grounds with numerous flower gardens.
- Assisi Heights - An Italian Romanesque structure home to the Sisters of Saint Francis and the Assisi Community Center. In addition to the beautiful grounds set upon a hilltop in Rochester, the main building features an ornate lobby with a slate floor, hand-blown stained glass windows, and a Romanesque ceiling. One hour tours are available.
- Quarry Hill Nature Center - Located on three hundred acres of park land, Quarry Hill offers hiking trails, educational programs, a 1, 700 gallon fish tank, live animals, bird watching, and many other activities for both young and old visitors.
- Soldier's Field Park and Veterans Memorial - A popular spot for picnics, parties, and play, Soldier's field park offers a beautiful place to relax close do downtown. The park is also home to the Soldier's Field Veterans Memorial, built to honor the Veterans from Southeast Minnesota who have died serving their country and the freedoms we enjoy.
- Olmsted County History Center and Museum - For a look at Rochester and Olmsted County history, this is the place to check out. Dedicated to preserving the rich history of the region, the facility features exhibits showing significant events in the city and county's past. There is a hands-on cabin exhibit to allow kids to experience life in Rochester in the mid-19th century. Other exhibits include information about the Mayo Clinic, St. Mary's Hospital, and IBM. The facility also contains a large number of historical documents, such as photographs, newspapers, journals, and diaries.
- Rochester Art Center - The art center in Rochester has been around for a number of years in various locations. In 2004, a new facility was built downtown to help preserve and display artistic contributions from both the Midwest and throughout the country. Throughout the year, a variety of special exhibits, lectures, films, and workshops are featured, some emphasizing local work.
- Recreation Center - The recreation center in Rochester can offer a fun, activity filled day or evening, offering two regulation ice rinks, an Olympic-size swimming pool, a gymnasium, and an exercise room. With indoor facilities, staying fit and active in the winter has never been easier.
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