Cannon Falls Travel Guide

Discover the charming town of Cannon Falls in Southern Minnesota with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore the best places to visit, stay, eat, and things to do for a memorable trip.


Introduction to Cannon Falls

Nestled in the scenic Cannon River Valley, Cannon Falls is a charming town in Southern Minnesota that offers a perfect blend of small-town charm, natural wonders, and cultural attractions. This historic town is surrounded by rolling hills, lush forests, and serene farmlands, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing getaway. With its vibrant arts scene, excellent restaurants, and numerous outdoor adventures, Cannon Falls has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Cannon Falls

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Cannon River Winery
  • Cannon Falls Area Historical Museum
  • The Artisan Plaza

Natural Attractions of Cannon Falls: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cannon Falls City Park
  • Lake Byllesby Regional Park
  • Cannon River Wilderness Area

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cannon Falls

  • Cannon Valley Trail
  • Caron Park Trails
  • Mill Towns State Trail

Best Things to Do in Cannon Falls: Activities and Tours

  • Wine tasting at the Cannon River Winery
  • Exploring the Cannon River Wilderness Area
  • Shopping at The Artisan Plaza

Week-Long Itinerary for Cannon Falls

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore the Cannon Falls Area Historical Museum
Day 2 Go hiking or biking on the Cannon Valley Trail
Day 3 Take a wine tour and tasting at the Cannon River Winery
Day 4 Visit Lake Byllesby Regional Park
Day 5 Spend the day shopping at The Artisan Plaza
Day 6 Explore the Mill Towns State Trail
Day 7 Enjoy a relaxing day at Cannon Falls City Park

Food and Drink Scene of Cannon Falls

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hot beef sandwich with mashed potatoes and gravy at The Farmhouse Eatery & Gifts
  • BBQ pork ribs at the Little Oscars Bar & Grill
  • Pizza at Angelo’s Pizza

Local Beverages

  • Wine at Cannon River Winery
  • Craft beer at Tilion Brewing Company
  • Coffee at Artisan Plaza

Where to Stay in Cannon Falls: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Country Inn By Carlson, Red Wing, MN
  • AmericInn by Wyndham Kasson Rochester Airport
  • Cobblestone Hotel & Suites - Wabasha

What to Buy in Cannon Falls: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handcrafted items at The Artisan Plaza
  • Wine and gourmet foods at Cannon River Winery
  • Gifts and apparel at The Farmhouse Eatery & Gifts

Local Culture and Customs of Cannon Falls

  • The community is friendly and welcoming, and visitors are always greeted with a warm smile.
  • Farming is an essential part of the area, and visitors can see various farms and farmers’ markets in the surrounding region.
  • The area is also known for its vibrant arts scene, and visitors can find many art galleries, sculpture gardens, and other cultural attractions in Cannon Falls.

Best Time to Visit Cannon Falls

The best time to visit Cannon Falls is from May to September when the weather is mild, and the outdoor activities are at their best. Summer is the peak season, and the town hosts several events and festivals during this time, including the Cannon Falls Wine and Art Festival and the Cannon Valley Fair.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cannon Falls

Do:

  • Visit the local wineries and breweries.
  • Try the local cuisine, including hot beef sandwich and BBQ pork ribs.
  • Take a bike ride on one of the many scenic trails.

Don’t:

  • Overlook the local farmers’ markets and produce stands.
  • Litter or harm the natural environment.
  • Forget to bring comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the area.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cannon Falls

Cannon Falls is a safe town, and visitors can enjoy their trip without worrying about safety issues. However, it’s always important to take basic precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Health in Cannon Falls

Cannon Falls has several medical facilities, including Cannon Falls Medical Center, to provide visitors with medical care if needed.

Getting to Cannon Falls: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cannon Falls

  • Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is the closest airport, situated approximately 60 miles north of the town.

Bus Stations Near Cannon Falls

  • Jefferson Bus Lines provides bus service to Cannon Falls from St. Paul, Minneapolis, and other nearby cities.

Other Options

  • Rental cars are available at Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport and other nearby locations.

How to Get Around in Cannon Falls

Cannon Falls is a small town, and most of the attractions are within walking or biking distance. However, visitors can also drive around the town or rent a car to explore the surrounding region.

Where to Go Next from Cannon Falls: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Red Wing, MN (30 min drive)
  • Minneapolis, MN (1-hour drive)
  • Rochester, MN (1-hour drive)

Conclusion

Cannon Falls is a beautiful and charming town that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a wine lover, outdoor enthusiast or history buff, Cannon Falls has something for everyone. Plan your next trip to this picturesque town, and get ready to make unforgettable memories.