There is plenty of fun waiting for you in Greater Mankato. We don’t just have awesome outdoor adventures, there’s plenty of fun happening indoors as well so come on in and check it all out!

Museums

If you are interested in history, literature or just having fun, you’ll find Mankato’s museums to be worth a visit. The Blue Earth County Historical Society operates the History Center Museum, Research Center, and gift shop as well as the Historic R.D. Hubbard House in Mankato. The Betsy-Tacy House brings the classic books of Maud Hart Lovelace to life as you get a glimpse into the past. Be sure to visit the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota where you’ll find the perfect combination of Southern Minnesota’s rich culture in a hands-on, interactive learning environment.

Be Wowed at the Wow! Zone

Your kids will find plenty to do at The Wow! Zone where you can bowl or play arcade games, laser tag or glow in the dark mini-golf. Day or night, it’s always a cool experience.

Everything but Ordinary

Looking for something a little different? Challenge your friends for a little Axe throwing competition, play a round of virtual golf. Consider it a bonus not having to deal with the wind or raking out those pesky sand bunkers! Want to flex your problem-solving skills to friends, family, or coworkers? See if you can take on the challenge to solve the mystery to break out of fun-themed escape rooms!

Burn off some Energy

Spend the day at the  Mankato Family YMCA. Kids will love to run in the gyms, play in the Kid’s Gym, swim in the Taylor Family Aquatic Center and Pool or relax in the YMCA’s Pepsi Cube that has foosball, a climbing wall, video games and more.

Come to Mankato to climb the indoor rock wall in Southern Minnesota! Climb out of your comfort zone and check out the  Maverick Adventures.

Are you a Pickleball fan? Did you know that there are ONLY a handful of professional pickleball facilities in the country … and one of those facilities is located right here in Mankato? Don’t miss your chance to play America’s fastest growing sport at the Picklebarn!

Theater, Theater, Theater

The Mankato area offers a variety of options for the theater lover. Minnesota State University, Mankato Theatre and Dance has several performances every year. More than 35,000 patrons witness, support, and enjoy the department’s offerings each year, ranking it in the nation’s top one percent of colleges in theater attendance. Other area colleges including Bethany Lutheran College in Mankato and Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter have excellent theater programs. If you want a unique theater experience, The Merely Players Community Theatre brings art to the community through its theatrical performances year-round and also offer special performances at local establishments. The Mankato Playhouse is Mankato’s newest theatre featuring high quality musical theater performances and Broadway Teen Workshops. Better yet, this is a dinner theater offering delicious meals and drinks in a fun atmosphere.

Retail Therapy

We know a little retail therapy goes a long way and we are happy to say Greater Mankato serves as a retail center with hundreds of stores throughout the entire community. Visit our vibrant City Center particularly in Old Town along Riverfront Drive, Front Street and just over the bridge in North Mankato that features a charming row of Belgrade Avenue shops and services. Shopping in this area includes quaint shops and boutiques that offer a distinctive blend of specialty products, local artisan wares and “just what you’re looking for” gifts.

The River Hills Mall, located on Mankato’s Hilltop, is the premier shopping destination in Southern Minnesota and is home to several retailers we all know and love. here is plenty to do for the whole family including an 8-screen movie theater with luxury lounger recliner seats, a children’s play area, and a turn-of-the century carousel in the Carousel Café Food Court. They often host craft and home shows, as well as other events.

Relax and Unwind

Decompress from the busyness of everyday life and enjoy one of Mankato’s many unique salons and spas. Get a small group together and book a session in the salt room at  Body Concepts  located along Mankato’s Riverfront Drive. Get pampered with a wide variety of custom treatments and therapy options at  Liv Aveda Salon and Spa  with everything from hair, nails. spa packages and more! Looking to freshen up your style? Book an appointment with  Raydiance Salon  located right in the heart of downtown Mankato just around the corner from the  Hilton Garden Inn  in the  City Center Plaza.

Night Out on the Town

You don’t need to drive far to have an exciting night out.  There are plenty of dine and drink options as well as  wine and brew  and many with great live entertainment venues. Want to see notable artists performing live? Check out Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center  and plan your visit around any upcoming concerts and events you’ll want to see.

Wine & Brew Fans

Ah, time to sample local libations. Mankato Brewery’s tap room, in lower North Mankato. Across the Minnesota River in downtown Mankato, LocAle Brewing Co. is turning out brews with appropriately local flair. Just a few miles north on Highway 22 lies Chankaska Creek Ranch, Winery and Distillery. Chankaska’s convenient yet rural setting, known for its breathtaking views and award-winning wines, spirits and liqueurs. Take the wine and brew tour and discover the local flavors of southern Minnesota.

Plan your trip to Greater Mankato and check out great dining options available as well as a full lineup of events happening all year long and don’t forget to book your stay at one of our many home away from home accommodations.