Jackson Travel Guide

Explore Jackson, Minnesota with our comprehensive travel guide that highlights attractions, food & drink scene, accommodation, tips, and more.


Introduction to Jackson

Jackson, a city in Southern Minnesota, is a hidden gem offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural significance, and warm hospitality. It is known for its vibrant food and drink scene, outdoor adventure opportunities, and relaxing atmosphere. The city is perfect for a weekend getaway or a week-long vacation.

List of Places to Visit in Jackson

Here are some of the top places to visit in Jackson:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Jackson County Historical Society Museum: Explore the rich history of the city through the exhibits and collections in this museum.
  • Fort Belmont: Get a glimpse of the frontier life by visiting this restored historical fort.
  • Armstrong Park and Historic Downtown: Take a walk through the historic downtown area of Jackson and explore the local shops and restaurants.

Natural Attractions of Jackson: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kilen Woods State Park: Enjoy hiking, fishing, and camping amidst the serene beauty of the park.
  • Des Moines River Valley: Take a scenic drive or bike ride through the valley and enjoy the breathtaking views.
  • Green Lake: Spend a relaxing afternoon boating or fishing on the beautiful Green Lake.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Jackson

Jackson offers several hiking and biking routes for adventure enthusiasts. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Des Moines River Valley Trail: This 32-mile long scenic trail runs through the valley and offers stunning views of the natural surroundings.
  • Kilen Woods State Park Trail: This is a 3-mile trail that runs through the park and provides a challenging hiking terrain with some steep hills.
  • Jackson-Derby Bike Trail: This 9-mile long paved trail connects the cities of Jackson and Derby and is perfect for a leisurely bike ride.

Best Things to Do in Jackson: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Jackson, Minnesota:

  • Green Lake Cruise: Take a scenic boat ride on the tranquil Green Lake and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
  • Jackson Speedway: Enjoy an action-packed evening of dirt track car racing at the Jackson Speedway.
  • Jackson Golf Course: Play a round of golf on the picturesque Jackson Golf Course surrounded by lush greenery.

Week-Long Itinerary for Jackson

Day 1 - Explore the downtown area, visit the Jackson County Historical Society Museum, and enjoy a meal at a local restaurant.

Day 2 - Spend a day at Kilen Woods State Park, hiking and camping amidst the natural beauty.

Day 3 - Take a leisurely bike ride on the Jackson-Derby Bike Trail and enjoy the scenic views.

Day 4 - Visit Fort Belmont and learn about the history of the city.

Day 5 - Play a round of golf at the Jackson Golf Course and enjoy a meal at the clubhouse.

Day 6 - Take a Green Lake Cruise and spend a relaxing afternoon boating on the beautiful lake.

Day 7 - Enjoy an action-packed evening of dirt track car racing at the Jackson Speedway.

Food and Drink Scene of Jackson

Must-Try Dishes

Jackson offers a vibrant food scene with several local specialties that you must try:

  • Hot Beef Sandwich: This is a classic dish of Jackson served on top of white bread, smothered in gravy and mashed potatoes.
  • Walleye: This freshwater fish is a local delicacy and is often served battered and deep-fried.
  • Tater Tot Hot Dish: This is a flavorful comfort food made with ground beef, tater tots, and cream of mushroom soup.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: Jackson has several locally owned breweries that offer a variety of craft beers.
  • Wine: Take a tour of local wineries, and enjoy a glass of Minnesota wine.

Where to Stay in Jackson: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Jackson offers a range of accommodations for all budgets. Here are some options:

  • AmericInn by Wyndham Jackson: This hotel offers cozy rooms and suites, an indoor pool, and a sauna.
  • Prairie Lodge Motel: This budget-friendly motel offers clean rooms, complimentary breakfast, and Wi-Fi.
  • Lakefield Inn: This guesthouse offers comfortable guest rooms, a secluded patio, and hot breakfast.

What to Buy in Jackson: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • T-shirts and Sweatshirts: Buy souvenirs that feature the city’s popular places and landmarks.
  • Walleye Jerky: Take home the city’s popular snack made from walleye.
  • Minnesota Wine: Bring home a bottle of locally made wine as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Jackson

Jackson is a small town with friendly residents. Here are some customs to keep in mind:

  • Greetings: It’s customary to greet people with a smile and a friendly “hello” or “hi”.
  • Tipping: It’s customary to tip around 15-20% at restaurants and cafes.
  • Timings: Businesses in Jackson typically operate from 9 am to 5 pm on weekdays and are closed on Sundays.

Best Time to Visit Jackson

The best time to visit Jackson is during the summers between June to August. The weather is pleasant during this time, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Jackson

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and culture.
  • Follow the traffic laws while driving or cycling.
  • Enjoy the outdoor adventures that the city offers.

Don’t:

  • Litter in the natural surroundings.
  • Disrespect the local customs and culture.
  • Engage in loud or unruly behavior.

Safety and Health

Safety in Jackson

Jackson is a safe city with a low crime rate. However, it’s advisable to take necessary precautions, such as keeping valuable belongings safe and staying aware of your surroundings.

Health in Jackson

Jackson has several medical centers and pharmacies. It’s advisable to carry necessary medication while traveling and ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance.

Getting to Jackson: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Jackson

The closest airport to Jackson is the Rapid City Regional Airport. It’s located about 89 miles away from the city.

Bus Stations Near Jackson

Jefferson Lines operates buses to and from Jackson to several cities in the region.

Other Options

Getting around Jackson is easy by car or bike. It’s advisable to carry a GPS device or a road map to get around the city comfortably.

How to Get Around in Jackson

It’s easy to get around Jackson by car, bike, or on foot. Taxis and car rentals are also available in the city.

Where to Go Next from Jackson: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Sioux Falls: Visit this vibrant city about 100 miles southeast of Jackson, known for its parks and waterfalls.
  • Fairmont: Explore this charming city about 20 miles north of Jackson, known for its lake and golf course.
  • Des Moines: Take a trip to this bustling city about 160 miles south of Jackson, perfect for a weekend getaway.

Conclusion

Jackson offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural significance, and warm hospitality. It’s a perfect destination for anyone looking for a refreshing getaway from city life. Plan your trip to Jackson right away, and enjoy the best of Midwest hospitality!