Things To Do
in Red Wing
Red Wing sits on the Mississippi River in southeastern Minnesota, blending river town charm with a storied industrial past. This compact city is known for its dramatic bluffs, the historic downtown, and a thriving arts scene centered on pottery and crafts. You can trace the town’s heritage through its brick architecture, museums, and the Red Wing Shoes factory outlet.
Outside the city core, the river, bluffs, and trails offer outdoor adventures and photo opportunities year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Red Wing and check into your hotel. Begin your adventure with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll down Main Street, admiring the historic architecture and unique shops.
Spend your afternoon visiting the Red Wing Pottery, where you can learn about the town's famous ceramics and perhaps purchase a piece to take home. Afterward, head over to Barn Bluff for a short hike, which offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and surrounding landscape. Enjoy a picnic lunch with a view, soaking in the scenery and fresh air.
As evening falls, visit one of the charming restaurants along the riverfront for dinner, savoring local dishes. After your meal, take a sunset walk along the Mississippi River, reflecting on the beauty of the day. Cap off the day with a local craft beer or wine at a nearby brewery or winery.
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast at a local diner before heading out to the nearby Frontenac State Park. Explore the trails, where you can spot wildlife and enjoy the beautiful fall foliage or spring blooms. The fresh air and tranquil environment will refresh your spirits for the day's adventures.
Visit the Red Wing Heritage Association to learn about the town’s rich history and the role it played in the logging industry. After the museum, explore the nearby historic districts, where you can see beautifully preserved Victorian homes. For lunch, treat yourself to a riverside café, enjoying dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
For dinner, indulge in a farm-to-table experience at a local restaurant, where you can taste seasonal dishes. After dinner, catch a live music performance at a local venue, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Red Wing. Enjoy the evening air as you walk back to your hotel, feeling enriched by the day's experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-6 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $100-180 |
| 🚗Short taxi ride | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable downtown with brick architecture and river views
- Rich pottery and industrial heritage with engaging museums
- Beautiful bluff scenery and outdoor recreation nearby
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Seasonal crowds during peak summer and events
- Many attractions require car travel beyond the core downtown
Places to Visit in Red Wing
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic bluff above the Mississippi with sweeping city and river views, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.
Riverfront walks with brick facades, boats, and golden-hour reflections along the water.
Colorful brick storefronts and vintage signage make for classic Downtown photography.
Historic building and signage tied to the region’s pottery legacy provide distinctive subjects.
Food in Red Wing
Red Wing Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Minnesota staple featuring battered or pan-fried walleye on a bun with lemon-dill mayo, commonly found at riverfront eateries.
Must-Try!
Thin, potato-based flatbread served with butter and sugar, reflecting the region’s Nordic heritage.
A comforting casserole with ground meat, vegetables, creamy sauce, and a crispy tater-tot topping.
Creamy chowder made with local smoked fish, potatoes, and corn—seasonal and heartwarming.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, bakery goods, honey, and crafts along downtown streets.
Seasonal pop-up stalls and food trucks along Levee Park during summer events, offering quick bites and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm 'hello' or 'hi' goes a long way in conversation; maintain a courteous, relaxed tone in shops and restaurants.
Respect posted signs and private property near trails and riverfronts; ask before taking photos of individuals or private homes.
If you need accessibility accommodations, ask staff politely and plan ahead for seasonal crowds.
Safety
Tipping in Red Wing
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and bars, tip 15-20% of the pre-tax bill; smaller tips are common for very limited service; tipping in cash is appreciated but not required if you’ve paid by card.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; mobile pay (Apple Pay, Google Pay) is common; cash is useful for small-town shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with abundant outdoor events, riverfront activities, and outdoor dining. Stay hydrated and watch for crowds around festival weekends.
Vibrant foliage along bluffs and along the Mississippi; great time for photography and scenic drives. Expect cooler temps and seasonal markets.
Cold and snowy with potential ice on the river. Cozy indoor venues and holiday lights provide warmth; dress in layers and be prepared for icy sidewalks.
Milder weather with blooming trees and increasing outdoor activity. River conditions can be variable; layering is key.
Red Wing at Night
Hiking in Red Wing
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Steep bluff trail with dramatic Mississippi vistas and city skyline views.
Network of bluffs and prairie trails offering scenic overlooks and wildlife watching.
Paved rails-to-trails route ideal for biking and walking with river scenery.
Expansive bluffs and overlooks along the river with panoramic photo opportunities near Winona.
Airports
How to reach Red Wing by plane.
Major gateway about 50-60 miles northwest with broad domestic and international flight options.
Smaller regional airport about 60-70 miles southeast, convenient for shorter trips.
Small general aviation airport serving private planes and charter flights; limited commercial service.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A small, family-oriented community with a majority White population and smaller Indigenous, Asian, Black, and Hispanic/Latino communities; families and retirees are common.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular water-based recreation in summer with bass and walleye fishing and guided tours.
Accessible outdoor sport along a scenic rail-trail suitable for all ages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Red Wing.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants accommodate vegetarians with veggie burgers, salads, and meatless soups; ask about daily specials and produce from local markets.