Things To Do
in New Ulm
New Ulm sits along the Minnesota River in southern Minnesota and is renowned for its strong German-American heritage, charming downtown and scenic river valley. The city blends Bavarian-inspired architecture, cultural festivals, and nearby natural beauty, including Minneopa State Park. Visitors can tour Schell's Brewery, explore local museums, and enjoy outdoor activities in a compact, walkable setting.
Year-round, New Ulm offers a friendly atmosphere, seasonal events, and easy access from regional airports and highways.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in New Ulm and settle into your accommodation, taking time to relax after your journey. Explore the charming downtown area and enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café, savoring the flavors of traditional Minnesota fare. Visit the Hermann Heights Park for stunning views of the Minnesota River and the replica of Hermann Monument.
Spend the afternoon visiting the New Ulm Museum and the historic Brown County Courthouse, immersing yourself in the local history and culture. Stroll through the picturesque streets lined with 19th-century architecture, stopping by shops that showcase local artisans. Treat yourself to lunch at a brewery known for its craft beers and German-inspired dishes.
As the sun sets, indulge in a delightful dinner at one of New Ulm’s authentic German restaurants, enjoying dishes like schnitzels and bratwursts. Finish the day with a leisurely walk along the riverbank, taking in the tranquil atmosphere of the evening. Consider catching a live performance at the historic State Street Theater if there's a show on the schedule.
Start your day with a visit to the Wanda Gag House, the childhood home of the famous American author and illustrator. Enjoy breakfast at a local diner where the community gathers, experiencing the warmth of small-town hospitality. After breakfast, take a tour of the historic Schell's Brewery, one of the oldest in the state.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the brewery's Beer Garden, where you can sample a variety of local brews and pair them with delicious snacks. Post-lunch, explore the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame to learn about the rich musical heritage of the state. If you're in the mood for some outdoor fun, rent a bicycle and ride along the scenic trails surrounding the city.
Unwind at a local wine bar where you can taste a selection of regional wines paired with small plates. Alternatively, enjoy a casual dinner at a family-friendly pizzeria that locals frequent. Wrap up your day with a stroll through downtown, enjoying the friendly atmosphere and maybe catching a local art exhibit.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🏨Hotel per night (mid-range) | $120-180 |
| 🚗Gas per gallon | $3-4 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs | $5-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich German-American heritage and friendly locals
- Compact, walkable downtown with breweries and museums
- Beautiful river valley and nearby Minneopa State Park
- Easy access by car and nearby regional airports
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Harsh winters and occasional severe weather
- Smaller public transit options; car dependence
- Touristy at peak festival times can feel busy
Places to Visit in New Ulm
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic waterfall with meadow views and a nearby buffalo enclosure, ideal for landscape and wildlife photography.
Cobbled streets, timber storefronts, and German-inspired architecture provide charming urban photography opportunities.
Overlooks along the Minnesota River offering expansive river and sunset photography.
Food in New Ulm
New Ulm Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Bavarian-style staple often featured at German restaurants and beer halls in town.
Must-Try!
Crispy breaded cutlet served with traditional potato sides; a crowd-pleaser at local eateries.
A classic regional fish dish commonly found on menus in New Ulm.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, baked goods, cheeses, and prepared foods from local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hello; handshakes are common in business settings; respect German heritage and local customs.
Safety
Tipping in New Ulm
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., tipping 15-20% at restaurants, bars, and tours is standard; some venues may add a service charge for larger groups.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with outdoor festivals, farmers markets, and long daylight hours; thunderstorms are possible.
Vibrant foliage along river valleys and parks; peak festival season with Oktoberfest vibes and photo-worthy backdrops.
Cold, snowy landscapes with festive lights; activities indoors and winter hiking; dress in layers and boots.
Milder temperatures with blooming trees and gardens; expect rain showers and pleasant outdoor seeing.
New Ulm at Night
Hiking in New Ulm
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible trails around the falls and buffalo enclosure with opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Forested hills, river views along the Cottonwood River; gently rolling terrain.
Airports
How to reach New Ulm by plane.
Major international hub about 90-120 minutes by car; offers extensive domestic and international flights.
Regional airport with frequent domestic flights; about 1.5-2 hours drive.
Smaller regional airport within a 90-minute drive; limited services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding cultural presence from German settlers; influences local festivals, food, and architecture.
A mix of family households, seniors, and long-time residents; welcoming to visitors.
School-age residents with active community programming and events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A favorite winter activity, with local youth and adult leagues and community rink events.
Local leagues and park recreation through summer months.
Common in schools and recreational leagues; intramural play and pickup games in parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting New Ulm.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose salads, roasted vegetables, pierogies, and dairy-rich dishes; request sauces on the side and opt for grill-friendly options.