Minnesota
Minnesota's Authentic German Heritage Town
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Photo: Doug Kerr / Wikimedia Commons
Step into New Ulm and you might think you've been transported to Bavaria. Founded in 1854 by German immigrants from Württemberg, this Minnesota River Valley town has fiercely preserved its Germanic heritage for over 170 years. The 45-foot Glockenspiel clock tower in the town square chimes three times daily, its carved figurines telling stories of local history and legend.
New Ulm's commitment to its roots runs deep. The Hermann Monument—a 102-foot copper statue of the ancient German hero—stands atop a bluff overlooking the town, the third-largest copper statue in America. Downtown features Bavarian-style architecture, German bakeries, and shops selling imported goods, while the Rathskeller at Turner Hall (the state's oldest bar) serves traditional fare beneath murals painted in 1873.
The August Schell Brewing Company, founded in 1860, is America's second-oldest family-owned brewery. Its hillside grounds feature stunning gardens, roaming deer and peacocks, and a museum celebrating six generations of brewing. The town comes alive during Oktoberfest, Bock Fest, and Bavarian Blast, when polka music fills the streets and lederhosen are the dress code.
45-foot musical clock tower with animated figurines performing three times daily
America's second-oldest family-owned brewery with gorgeous gardens and tours
102-foot copper statue overlooking the Minnesota River Valley
Year-round celebrations including Oktoberfest, Bock Fest, and Bavarian Blast
New Ulm is located about 90 miles southwest of Minneapolis. The town is especially festive during Oktoberfest (early October) and the Christmas season when the Glockenspiel plays holiday tunes. Flandrau State Park on the edge of town offers swimming, hiking, and camping. Don't leave without trying a Schell's beer and picking up some German sausage from Domeier's.