Rochester: A Megalopolis in the Making

Nestled in the Zumbro River's south fork in Southeast Minnesota, Rochester, MN is the county seat of Olmsted County, Minnesota and the largest city located outside the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. It is also the fastest growing city in the state. Out of all its residents, German-Americans are said to be the largest single ethnic group residing in Rochester, Minnesota. Today, thanks to its rehabilitated Central Business District, Downtown Rochester is now a popular venue for meetings and conventions. Its state-of-art infrastructure connects dining and nightlife options as well as some 2,000 hotel rooms via a system of skyways and underpasses. The city is serviced by Rochester International Airport, the second busiest commercial airport in the state.

Best Time to Visit

Tourism in Rochester peaks in early fall, during the months of August to September. Subsequently, room rates and airfare are expected to be the most expensive during this season. Travelers looking to avoid the crown can head on to Rochester in November through when the crowds have thinned out and lodgings are cheapest, although snow should be expected. The best time to travel to the city would be in October when temperatures are moderate and accommodations more affordable.

What to Do & Area Attractions

When going through Rochester, the best way to see its sights is to take a guided tour on a trolley. One can conveniently see more of the Rochester City & Mayo Clinic, the Rochester Microbrewery, the Bluff Country Wine Trail and the scenic Mississippi River. Get to enjoy wine tasting at the Four Daughters Vineyards & Winery. Visitors who are in the city for business will find Kahler Inn & Suites and Marriott Rochester Mayo Clinic strategic locations convenient as these are but a 2-minute walk from The Mayo Civic Center.