Truman Travel Guide

Explore the best of Southern Minnesota with this comprehensive guide to Truman, including must-visit places, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Truman

Truman, a small town in Southern Minnesota, is an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities and experience the joys of small-town life. Truman is home to a vibrant community that welcomes visitors with open arms. This town boasts a rich history, a beautiful natural setting, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

List of Places to Visit in Truman

Here are some must-visit places in Truman:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Truman Historical Museum: Explore the rich history of the town and learn about the brave men and women who helped shape it.
  • Martin County Preservation Hall: Admire the beautiful architecture of this historic building, which is now used for community events and gatherings.
  • Surgeon’s House: Visit this historic house and see what life was like for a doctor and his family in the early 20th century.
  • Truman Theatre: Catch a movie at this charming theatre, which has been entertaining residents since 1946.

Natural Attractions of Truman: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Fairmont Chain of Lakes: Enjoy a relaxing day on the water, fishing, boating, or swimming at this beautiful lake system.
  • Kettenacker Lake Wildlife Management Area: Take a hike through the serene woods, spot some wildlife, and enjoy the calming effect of nature.
  • Martin County Conservation Club: Go hunting, shooting, or fishing at this local outdoor sports club, which offers year-round activities for visitors.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Truman

Truman offers some great hiking and biking routes for visitors. Here are some of the best ones:

  • Truman Trail: A scenic 2.4-mile trail that runs through the heart of Truman, offering stunning views of the town and its surroundings.
  • Kettenacker Lake Trail: An easy 1.5-mile trail that circles Kettenacker Lake, offering fantastic bird-watching opportunities.
  • Fairmont Chain of Lakes Trail: A 10-mile trail that winds through the Fairmont Chain of Lakes, offering beautiful views of the water and the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Truman: Activities and Tours

Truman offers a variety of activities and tours for visitors. Here are some of the best ones:

  • Taproom Tour: Take a tour of the local brewery, Madelia Brewing Company, and sample some of their delicious craft beers.
  • Truman City Tour: Take a guided tour of the town and learn about its rich history and vibrant community.
  • Martin County Scenic Drive: Take a leisurely drive through the scenic countryside, admire the picturesque views, and stop at some of the hidden gems along the way.

Week-Long Itinerary for Truman

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Truman:

Day Activity
1 Explore Truman’s museums and historical places
2 Enjoy a day in nature at Kettenacker Lake Wildlife Management Area
3 Take a Taproom Tour at Madelia Brewing Company
4 Spend a day at the Fairmont Chain of Lakes
5 Go hunting or fishing at Martin County Conservation Club
6 Take a guided Truman City Tour
7 Drive through the scenic Martin County countryside

Food and Drink Scene of Truman

Truman has a vibrant food and drink scene, offering a mix of traditional and modern cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hotdish: A hearty casserole made with ground beef and a variety of vegetables, baked to perfection.
  • Lefse: A traditional Norwegian flatbread, served with butter and sugar or jam.
  • Walleye Sandwich: A fried walleye fillet, served on a bun with all the fixings.

Local Beverages

  • Madelia Brewing Company: Sample some of the local craft beers at this popular brewery.
  • Minnesota Wine Country: Take a tour of the local wineries and taste some of the delicious wines produced in the area.

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

Truman offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors. Here are some of the best ones:

  • Truman Hotel: A charming hotel in the heart of town, offering comfortable rooms and great service.
  • The Cottage Bed & Breakfast: A cozy guesthouse, offering a home-away-from-home atmosphere and delicious breakfasts.
  • Kettenacker Lake Lodge: A rustic lodge near Kettenacker Lake, offering easy access to nature and outdoor activities.

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

Truman offers a variety of souvenirs and local products that make great gifts for friends and family. Here are some of the best ones:

  • Hotdish Cookbooks: Take home a cookbook filled with classic hotdish recipes, perfect for those looking to recreate the taste of Truman at home.
  • Lefse Utensils: Pick up some traditional lefse-making tools, and impress your friends with your newfound skills.
  • Madelia Brewing Company Growlers: Bring home some of the local craft beer in a refillable growler, perfect for sharing with friends.

Local Culture and Customs of Truman

Truman has a rich cultural heritage, including a strong Norwegian influence. Visitors should be respectful of this heritage and be open to learning about the local culture and customs. Residents of Truman are warm and welcoming, and visitors are encouraged to engage with the local community.

Best Time to Visit Truman

Truman is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor activities are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Truman

Here are some things to do and not do when visiting Truman:

Do:

  • Explore the town’s rich history and cultural heritage
  • Take advantage of the beautiful natural setting and outdoor activities
  • Engage with the local community and learn about their customs and traditions

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the local culture and traditions
  • Litter or damage the beautiful natural environment
  • Be rude or unfriendly to locals or fellow visitors

Safety and Health

Truman is a safe and healthy destination for visitors. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Safety in Truman

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially when hiking or biking in remote areas.
  • Lock up your belongings when leaving them in your accommodation or vehicle.
  • Stay informed about local weather conditions and natural hazards.

Health in Truman

Truman has a good healthcare system, with several medical clinics and hospitals located nearby. Visitors should also take precautions to protect themselves from sunburn and insect bites.

Getting to Truman: Transportation Options and Logistics

Truman is located in Southern Minnesota, accessible by several transportation options:

Airports Near Truman

  • Mankato Regional Airport (46 miles)
  • Rochester International Airport (69 miles)
  • Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (98 miles)

Bus Stations Near Truman

  • Jeffers Bus Service (12 miles)
  • Windom Bus Service (18 miles)
  • Minnesota Valley Transit Authority (29 miles)

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Visitors can rent a car from one of several rental companies located in nearby towns.
  • Taxi Service: The town of Truman offers taxi services to nearby destinations.

How to Get Around in Truman

Truman is a small town that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. Visitors can also rent a car from one of several rental companies located nearby.

Where to Go Next from Truman: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Truman is located in an area of Southern Minnesota that offers a variety of nearby destinations and excursions. Here are some of the best ones:

  • Mankato: A college town with a vibrant arts and culture scene, located 47 miles northeast of Truman.
  • Rochester: Home to the famous Mayo Clinic, and a vibrant downtown district, located 68 miles southeast of Truman.
  • Minneapolis: A sprawling city with a diverse arts and culture scene, located 98 miles northeast of Truman.

Conclusion

Truman, Southern Minnesota, is a hidden gem in the Midwest, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visitors to Truman can explore the town’s rich heritage, enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, taste the delicious local cuisine, and engage with the warm and welcoming local community. With so much to offer, Truman is a must-see destination for anyone looking to experience the best of small-town life in America’s heartland.