Pipestone Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, and tips for your trip to Pipestone, Minnesota with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Pipestone

Nestled in Southern Minnesota, Pipestone is a small historic town known for its unique quarries made of red quartzite and the sacred Catlinite, or pipestone, that the indigenous tribes used to make pipes and carvings. Learn about Pipestone’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty with our comprehensive travel guide.

List of Places to Visit in Pipestone

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Pipestone National Monument: The famous quarries of the indigenous tribes still operate in this national monument and offer visitors a chance to witness traditional crafting of pipes and carvings from pipestone.
  • Pipestone County Museum: This museum has a vast collection of Native American artifacts, local history exhibits, and genealogy resources.
  • Keepers of the Sacred Tradition of Pipemakers: Located near the Pipestone National Monument, this Native American-owned institution offers guided tours and workshops on the traditional art of pipemaking from pipestone.

Natural Attractions of Pipestone: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Winnewissa Falls: A small but picturesque waterfall with a wooden boardwalk and various hiking trails.
  • Split Rock Creek State Park: Located 10 miles north of Pipestone, this park offers visitors fishing, camping, hiking, and biking opportunities.
  • Pipestone Quarry Trail: Take a walking tour through the red quartzite quarries at the Pipestone National Monument.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pipestone

  • Pipestone Quarry Trail: A 3/4 mile walking tour through the quarries at the Pipestone National Monument.
  • Minnesota River Trail: An 8-mile paved trail that parallels the Minnesota River through the downtown area of Pipestone.
  • Split Rock Creek State Park Trail: A 5-mile hiking and biking trail that meanders through the scenic park.

Best Things to Do in Pipestone: Activities and Tours

  • Catlinite Carving: Learn from experts on how to carve Catlinite and make a pipe or other carvings.
  • Art Walk: Enjoy local Pipestone artwork displayed in downtown galleries as well as the Pipestone County Museum.
  • Southwestern Minnesota Prairie Waters: Take a scenic drive through the nearby SW Minnesota prairie, with abundant wildlife and historic sites along the way.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pipestone

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Pipestone National Monument and Pipemakers’ Workshop
Day 2-3 Scenic drive through SW Minnesota Prairie Waters & local golf
Day 4 Explore downtown galleries and Pipestone County Museum
Day 5-6 Hike Split Rock Creek State Park Trail, fishing, camping
Day 7 Carve your own Catlinite pipe and enjoy a local meal

Food and Drink Scene of Pipestone

Must-Try Dishes

  • Wild Rice Soup: This local favorite is a creamy soup made with wild rice, chicken, and vegetables.
  • Walleye: Being in Minnesota, walleye is a must-try dish, and it is available at many local restaurants.
  • Pasties: A traditional Cornish pastry filled with meat and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Full Cord Lager: This local brew is an easy-drinking lager with a crisp finish.
  • Potter’s Brewery: This brewery has a wide range of locally crafted beers and ciders on tap.

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

  • Historic Calumet Inn: This cozy hotel in the heart of downtown Pipestone has been restored from the 1880s and has a traditional Victorian atmosphere.
  • Pipestone RV Campground: This campground is a perfect place to park your RV and explore Pipestone County Park.
  • Hi-View Motel: A locally-owned, budget-friendly motel with recently renovated rooms and amenities.

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

  • Catlinite Pipes and Carvings: Bring back a piece of Pipestone by purchasing a Catlinite pipe or carving made by local artisans.
  • Local Artwork: Scour the galleries of Pipestone for unique local art pieces to decorate your home.
  • Wild Rice: Buy locally sourced wild rice to cook and enjoy a traditional Minnesota dish at home.

Local Culture and Customs of Pipestone

Pipestone is located on the land of the Dakota Sioux, and the indigenous traditions and beliefs are still prevalent in the local culture. Respect cultural sites, arts, and traditions during your visit.

Best Time to Visit Pipestone

The weather in Pipestone is mild from May to October, and the summer months offer the best time to visit Pipestone. However, fall is also a beautiful time, with colors changing in the trees and cooler weather for exploring outdoors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pipestone

Do:

  • Visit the Pipestone National Monument and Pipemakers’ Workshop.
  • Try the local dishes and brews.
  • Respect local traditions and customs.

Don’t:

  • Trespass on private property.
  • Leave any trash or litter in the natural areas.
  • Disrespect indigenous culture and beliefs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Pipestone

Pipestone is a safe town, but general precautions should be observed, such as locking vehicles and being aware of surroundings when visiting natural areas.

Health in Pipestone

There is a health clinic located in Pipestone, and nearby larger towns offer full medical facilities that can be reached within a reasonable driving distance if necessary.

Getting to Pipestone: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Pipestone

  • Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD), South Dakota (58 miles)
  • Rochester International Airport (RST), Minnesota (112 miles)
  • Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP), Minnesota (195 miles)

Bus Stations Near Pipestone

  • Greyhound Bus Station, Sioux Falls, South Dakota (63 miles)
  • Jefferson Bus Lines, Marshall, Minnesota (25 miles)
  • Lamers Bus Lines, Worthington, Minnesota (30 miles)

Other Options

If you are driving, Pipestone is conveniently located right off Highway 30. Parking is available on the street and in designated parking lots.

How to Get Around in Pipestone

Walking or biking are the most common ways to get around in Pipestone, especially if you want to explore the downtown area or visit the Pipestone National Monument and local galleries. Taxis are also available for transport within Pipestone and the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Pipestone: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Blue Mounds State Park: Visit the unique rock formations and prairie savannah at Blue Mounds, located just 30 miles southwest of Pipestone.
  • Palisades State Park: Explore the scenic trails and formations of the Split Rock Creek at Palisades State Park, located about 40 miles north of Pipestone.

Conclusion

With its rich history, culture, and natural beauty, Pipestone is the perfect destination for those seeking a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience in the Midwest. Follow our travel guide to make the most of your trip to Pipestone, Minnesota.

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