Down Highway 61

For:

Wabasha

La Crosse

Prescott to Red Wing

Stay:

Eagles on the River offers two ways to enjoy your stay in Wabasha: The Bed and Breakfast (800-684-6813) is more secluded and has whirlpool tubs in some of the rooms. America’s Lofts (800-482-8188) in downtown are more suited to families, offering two bedroom lofts with living areas and riverviews.

The Radisson (608-784-6680) offers comfortable contemporary rooms at a reasonable rate, but the real pluses are the beautiful views of the Mississippi River and access to downtown shopping and dining.

There is that famous Minnesota hotel named after a saint in Red Wing, but for a more intimate experience, try the beautiful Round Barn Farm Bed & Breakfast & Bread (651-385-9250) that shares its land with a century-old round barn, which is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Eat:

Nosh Restaurant and Bar (651-345-2425) used to be right on Wabasha’s main street. Now it’s a short drive up Highway 61 in Lake City, which is a lot shorter trip for the fabulous Mediterranean–influenced fare.

For your meat-and-potatoes meal, hit the Freighthouse Restaurant (608-784-6211) for prime rib or a porterhouse—plus fish and poultry options. If you prefer less food and more vino, try Wine Guyz (608-782-9463) and unwind at the wine bar with a few appetizers.

You have two great choices: The Norton’s moved to downtown Red Wing and is now Norton’s Downtown & Lucky Cat Lounge (651-388-2711), and we expect the same impressive eclectic fare and a more impressive wine list. Or try Confluence (715-262-5700) in Prescott, a New American treat that is open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday.

Do:

The town still heralds itself as the Home of Grumpy Old Men, which, while a fine movie, was like, fifteen years ago. So check out the sites from the movie if you’re a fan, but don’t forget to stop at the gorgeous riverside National Eagle Center (651-565-4989). View and ask questions about the bald eagles and check out their history in American culture.

The Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe (608-782-5440), a copper-domed gem tucked into the bluffs on the south side of the city, will be dedicated in a sold-out celebration at the end of July. So wait until August to make your pilgrimage. There is also a fantastic café, Culina Mariana Restaurant, serving desserts, soups, salads, and sandwiches on fresh-baked breads. Even if you’re not a Catholic, an afternoon at the shrine should be a spirit-lifting experience.

Frontenac State Park (651-345-3401) offers 2,300 acres of beautiful Mississippi River views (including the gorgeous limestone bluffs) as well as some of the best bird watching in the state. History buffs can also look for burial mounds and village sites left behind by members of the Hopewell community.