Faribault: Prairie, Parks and Culture

Faribault offers nature and local culture in many different forms: the Blue Earth River winds through the eastern part of Faribault County, while parks and prairie areas each add their own character. Railroad history and events are also possible focuses for your trip. As you plan, consider whether you mainly want to experience the landscape, enjoy recreational opportunities in Blue Earth or visit a historic depot. This will help you choose a vacation rental based on what you want to make your trip special.

Prairie, River and Trails

In Faribault County, the Blue Earth River meets the West Branch Blue Earth River. From there, it flows north for 108 miles, winding through the eastern part of the county. This course of the river is a striking feature of the region’s landscape. The Osmundson Prairie Scientific and Natural Area showcases another side of the landscape: it is home to a mesic black-soil prairie community. Rare, threatened or endangered plant species found there include tuberous Indian plantain and rattlesnake master.

For outdoor recreation, the Unity Trail has a clearly defined route. The three-mile paved multi-use trail passes through grassland and wooded areas and begins at the Faribault County Fairgrounds. It ends at the rest area north of Interstate 90.

Parks with Different Features

Steinberg Nature Park offers a scenic setting for observing and experiencing nature. Interpretive signs provide information, and there is also an open shelter with restroom facilities. Nature observation and orientation are the main focus here. Woods Lake Park is home to a natural, pond-like swimming area and also features plantings of native prairie plants. These offer two different nature experiences: taking in the scenery and learning at Steinberg Nature Park, or enjoying a swimming area and native plants at Woods Lake Park.

Recreational opportunities also vary in Blue Earth. The fenced Blue Earth Dog Park offers an off-leash area for dogs of all sizes. Putnam Park is home to the municipal swimming pool and a disc golf course. Piano Park has several playground structures for children, making it a specific place to visit if play opportunities are part of your plans for the day. These places offer different activities; choose according to your group’s interests rather than trying to fit everything into a single itinerary.

History and Culture in Blue Earth and Wells

The Wells Railroad Depot has been restored and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Wells Railroad Depot Museum preserves an original freight scale, an original ticket-window counter and the original solid wood floors. Details like these bring the depot’s former use to life. In Blue Earth, the Jolly Green Giant statue has stood in Giant Park since 1979. The Giant Memorabilia Museum has the world’s largest collection of Green Giant memorabilia.

The Faribault County Fair was founded in 1859. Its fairgrounds in Blue Earth cover approximately 53 acres and are shaded by tall oak trees. The program includes open-class and agricultural competitions, demonstrations, free entertainment, and activities for children and adults. Since specific dates and program items may vary, check what is planned for your travel dates in advance.

Theater and concerts can also add to your travel plans: the Blue Earth Town & Country Players stage a musical every summer and a Christmas play every December. The Blue Earth Valley Concert Association presents a series of professional concerts each year. Productions, performers and concert dates may change, so check the schedule for your stay.

Choose the Right Focus for Your Trip

Prairie and river, trails and parks, or history and events all offer different reasons to explore Faribault. If nature and outdoor activity are your priorities, you can consider including the trails and parks described here. If you are more interested in regional history and culture, the depot, statue, museum and events offer more ideas. You can choose a vacation rental as a starting point for whichever focus best matches your travel interests.

Discover More Destinations

Also discover Wells, Blue Earth, Aitkin County, Polk County, Scott, Carver, Itasca County and Douglas County.

For the main travel overview: Minnesota.