Flandrau State Park Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Flandrau State Park in Southern Minnesota. From outdoor adventures to cultural attractions, this travel guide has everything you need to plan the perfect trip.


Introduction to Flandrau State Park

Flandrau State Park is a hidden gem located in Southern Minnesota. Spanning over 1,100 acres, the park is named after Charles Eugene Flandrau, a prominent figure in the state’s history. The park offers visitors a wide variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and fishing to camping and picnicking. Additionally, it is home to culturally important attractions, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

List of Places to Visit in Flandrau State Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Flandrau State Park is rich in history and culture, with many museums and historical sites to explore. These include:

  • Flandrau House State Historic Site - A beautifully preserved mansion built in the early 1900s, offering a glimpse into the lifestyles of early Minnesota aristocrats.
  • August Schell Brewing Company - Established in 1860, the brewery is one of the oldest in the state and offers tours and tastings year-round.
  • Brown County Historical Society - Dedicated to preserving the history of Brown County, the society’s museum features exhibits on the county’s early settlers, indigenous people, and agricultural heritage.

Natural Attractions of Flandrau State Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Flandrau State Park offers visitors a breathtaking landscape, complete with rivers, lakes, and lush forests. Some of the park’s natural attractions include:

  • Cottonwood River - Flowing through the park, the river is a popular spot for fishing and boating.
  • Flandrau Lake - This scenic lake is perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing.
  • Hermann Heights Monument - A towering statue located on a hill overlooking the city. Its observation deck provides panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Flandrau State Park

Flandrau State Park is a hiker’s paradise, with trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels.

  • Flandrau Trail - A 2.5-mile loop trail that takes hikers through the heart of the park, showcasing some of its best views and natural features.
  • Minnesota River Bottoms Trail - A 9-mile trail that follows the banks of the Minnesota River through the park.
  • Meadow Trail - A 1.5-mile trail that winds through the park’s lush meadows, offering a peaceful and serene hiking experience.

Best Things to Do in Flandrau State Park: Activities and Tours

Flandrau State Park has endless activities and tours for visitors to enjoy, including:

  • Camping - The park has many campsites available, offering a true outdoor experience.
  • Picnicking - With several picnic areas throughout the park, visitors can enjoy a relaxing afternoon surrounded by stunning scenery.
  • Nature Programs - From guided nature walks to bird watching programs, the park offers a variety of educational opportunities for visitors of all ages.

Week-Long Itinerary for Flandrau State Park

Day 1: Arrive at Flandrau State Park Day 2: Hiking on the Flandrau Trail Day 3: Visit the Hermann Heights Monument and Brown County Historical Society Day 4: Fishing and boating on Flandrau Lake Day 5: Explore the August Schell Brewing Company Day 6: Picnicking and nature programs Day 7: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Flandrau State Park

Must-Try Dishes

Minnesota is known for its hearty, Midwestern cuisine, and Flandrau State Park is no exception. Some must-try dishes include:

  • Walleye - A classic Minnesota dish, this freshwater whitefish is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
  • Hotdish - This casserole-like dish is a staple of Midwestern cuisine, typically made with meat, vegetables, and a creamy sauce.
  • Wild Rice Soup - Made with locally-sourced wild rice, this hearty soup is a perfect comfort food.

Local Beverages

Beer lovers will be delighted with the local craft beer scene in Southern Minnesota. Some of the most popular breweries include:

  • August Schell Brewing Company - Established in 1860, the brewery is one of the oldest in the state and offers tours and tastings year-round.
  • Mankato Brewery - This small-scale brewery specializes in craft beer made with locally-sourced ingredients.

Where to Stay in Flandrau State Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Flandrau State Park has several accommodation options available, from campsites to cabins. Some nearby lodging options include:

  • Grandstay Hotel & Suites Mankato - Located just 10 minutes from the park, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and on-site amenities.
  • Best Western Plus - This is a great option for families, offering a pool and complimentary breakfast.
  • Airbnb - For a more unique experience, visitors can book a stay in a nearby Airbnb, choosing from a variety of homes and apartments in the area.

What to Buy in Flandrau State Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Flandrau State Park can bring home a piece of Minnesota by purchasing locally-made products and souvenirs. Some options include:

  • Wild Rice - A staple of Minnesota cuisine, wild rice is a healthy and delicious souvenir.
  • Craft Beer - A variety of local breweries offer canned or bottled beer for purchase.
  • Handmade Crafts - Visitors can support local artisans by purchasing handmade crafts, such as pottery and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Flandrau State Park

Southern Minnesota is known for its friendly and welcoming locals. Visitors should respect the area’s cultural values, including:

  • Respect for Nature - Visitors to Flandrau State Park should take care to preserve the natural environment and wildlife.
  • Hospitality - Minnesotans are known for their warm and friendly hospitality, and visitors should strive to be respectful and kind to locals.

Best Time to Visit Flandrau State Park

The best time to visit Flandrau State Park is during the summer months, when temperatures are warm and the park is bustling with activity. However, visitors should also consider visiting in the fall, when the leaves change and the area’s natural beauty is on full display.

Do’s and Don’ts of Flandrau State Park

Do:

  • Respect the Environment - Visitors should take care to preserve the park’s natural beauty.
  • Try Local Cuisine - Sample some of the area’s delicious Midwestern cuisine.
  • Observe Wildlife from a Distance - Visitors should avoid disturbing wildlife and observe from a safe distance.

Don’t:

  • Litter - Visitors should take care to dispose of trash properly.
  • Damage Trails or Natural Features - Hikers should stick to designated trails and avoid damaging natural features.
  • Disturb Other Visitors - Visitors should avoid causing disturbances or interfering with others’ enjoyment of the park.

Safety and Health

Safety in Flandrau State Park

Visitors to Flandrau State Park should take care to stay safe, including:

  • Wear Appropriate Clothing and Footwear - Visitors should wear comfortable clothing and footwear designed for outdoor activities.
  • Stay Hydrated - It’s essential to drink plenty of water while exploring the park, especially in the summer months.
  • Be Aware of Wildlife - Visitors should be cautious of any wildlife they encounter and keep a safe distance.

Health in Flandrau State Park

Visitors to Flandrau State Park should take steps to maintain their health, including:

  • Apply Sunscreen - It’s important to protect skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
  • Pack First-Aid Supplies - Visitors should bring a basic first-aid kit in case of minor injuries.
  • Stay Hydrated - It’s essential to drink plenty of water while exploring the park, especially in the summer months.

Getting to Flandrau State Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors to Flandrau State Park have several transportation options, including:

Airports Near Flandrau State Park

  • Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport - Located approximately 90 miles northeast of the park.
  • St. Cloud Regional Airport - Located approximately 70 miles northwest of the park.

Bus Stations Near Flandrau State Park

  • Jefferson Lines - This bus line services the nearby city of Mankato, located just 10 minutes from the park.

Other Options

  • Renting a Car - Visitors can rent a car from the airport or other nearby locations.
  • Taking a Taxi or Rideshare - Visitors can arrange for transportation from the airport or other nearby locations.

How to Get Around in Flandrau State Park

Visitors can explore the park on foot or by bike, with several trails and bike paths available for use.

Where to Go Next from Flandrau State Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Mankato, MN - Located just 10 minutes from the park, this city is full of cultural attractions and shopping opportunities.
  • New Ulm, MN - Known as the “City of Charm,” New Ulm is located approximately 30 minutes from the park and offers excellent dining and shopping options.
  • Minneapolis, MN - A vibrant metropolis located approximately 90 miles away, Minneapolis offers endless opportunities for cultural exploration and entertainment.

Conclusion

Flandrau State Park is a destination that offers something for everyone. With its rich cultural history and breathtaking natural beauty, it’s no wonder that visitors keep coming back year after year. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your perfect visit and create memories that will last a lifetime.