Martin County: Lakes, Culture and History

Martin County brings together the lakes of Fairmont with performing arts, museums, and places that tell the story of the region’s history. The Chain of Lakes includes Budd, George, Hall, Sisseton, and Amber lakes; four of the five lakes are connected by channels. You can choose different focuses for your stay: time by the water and outdoor activities, or culture and history in Fairmont.

Lakes and Outdoor Activities

The Fairmont Trails run along the Chain of Lakes and are suitable for cycling, walking, jogging, and hiking. On the water, the Fairmont Lakes Foundation rents kayaks or paddleboards, including paddles and personal flotation devices. That gives you different ways to experience the lakes: explore the trails or plan a trip on the water. Check current rental options in advance if you’d like to take one of the boats out on the water.

Fairmont’s park system also offers plenty of variety: Spanning nearly 400 acres, it includes parks, playgrounds, sports fields, green spaces, flower gardens, and disc golf facilities. In winter, there are areas for sledding, ice skating, and cross-country skiing. Fairmont Aquatic Park adds water slides, a climbing wall, a diving board, a six-lane swimming pool, and splash areas. At Cedar Creek Disc Golf Complex, you can choose from three courses for different skill levels.

Performing Arts, Art, and Architecture

The Fairmont Opera House hosts local and professional theater performances. The Red Rock Center for the Arts offers a different focus: The historic building dates to 1898 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Each month, the Center presents a new visual artist; admission to the exhibition is free. The program also includes music concerts, such as big band, swing, jazz, cultural music, and string and piano concerts. If you’re interested in changing exhibitions, you’ll find a different experience here than at a theater performance.

The Martin County Courthouse in Fairmont combines Renaissance Revival architecture with symmetrical brickwork, arched windows, and a distinctive clock tower. The third floor and dome feature original metalwork and stonework, as well as murals. Another historic stop is the Chubb House: Built in 1867, it is the oldest brick house still standing in the city. Individual tours with volunteers are available by appointment.

Museums and Places of Remembrance

The Military Room at the Pioneer Museum in Fairmont displays artifacts from Fort Fairmount and the Civil War. The Martin County Historical Society museum also features a model of the Lake Cruiser Concord. The Martin County Historical Society in Fairmont lists visiting hours year-round, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to noon and 1:00 to 4:30 p.m. Check before your visit to see whether these hours are still in effect. The Truman Historical Association preserves artifacts from more than 100 years of Truman history.

The Martin County Veterans Memorial Park in Fairmont honors men and women from Martin County who have served in the armed forces. The memorial includes an 80-by-8-foot black granite wall bearing the names of veterans from the county. A Bell Cobra attack helicopter, designated AH-1-66-F-15327, is also on permanent display there. The Freedom Rock in Fairmont honors past and present veterans from Martin County and is part of artist Ray “Bubba” Sorensen II’s 50 State Freedom Rock Tour.

Agriculture and Trip Planning

Heritage Acres is an agricultural interpretive center that shares the ongoing story of farming. It sits on 40 acres of prairie in Martin County and overlooks Lake Sisseton near Fairmont. Visits are available by appointment and during special events; check in advance which option applies to your planned visit. The Martin County Fair also puts agriculture in the spotlight. Held annually, it features musical performances, the Open Ranch Rodeo, a carnival, and livestock shows, as well as 4-H, FFA, and open-class exhibits. Check the dates for the year of your trip when planning. Martin County produces more pork than any other county in Minnesota—a further concrete connection to the region’s agriculture.

Fairmont is located on Interstate 90. When choosing a vacation rental, you can first consider whether you mainly want to experience the lakes, trails, and cultural attractions in Fairmont, or also include destinations such as Heritage Acres in your stay. Narrow your search based on your preferred focus and the specific location of your accommodation.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Faribault, Steele County, Hennepin, Ramsey, Washington, Crow Wing County, St. Louis.

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