The Little Town In Minnesota That Might Just Be The Most Unique Town In The World
If you ever find yourself in New Ulm, Minnesota, you might feel like you’ve flown halfway around the world. That’s because this unique town goes all out to celebrate its German history. Spreading out over about 10 square miles in Brown County along the Minnesota and Cottonwood Rivers, this town offers a lot to do no matter what time of year you visit.
New Ulm is a quaint town in southern Minnesota with a population of about 13,000.
The incredible historic buildings and sites in this German town in Minnesota will make you second guess whether you are still in America!
The charming downtown area looks like it comes straight out of Bavaria - which it practically does. Some of New Ulm's earliest residents were German immigrants.
That includes the founder of August Schell Brewing Company, a business that has been operating since 1860. It is the second oldest family-owned brewery in America.
Visitors to New Ulm, Minnesota can look forward to festivals in the city throughout the year! In 2022, the New Ulm Oktoberfest celebrates its 40th anniversary as one of the biggest celebrations in the country.
There are many other celebrations as well. Winter or summer, there is something going on nearly every month of the year.
And if there's one thing New Ulm has, it's plenty of delicious restaurants. Try out Veigel's Kaiserhoff, the town's oldest restaurant. Established in 1938, it serves both German and American cuisine.
One of New Ulm's most famous attractions is the glockenspiel. This 45-foot clock houses 37 bells that play music three times each day. As they play, 12 large figurines rotate on a stage below the clock.
Amazingly, the combined weight of the bells in this impressive clock tower weighs two tons! Linger outside to hear the bells every quarter hour of the day.
Hermann the German is another famous landmark. It celebrates German victory over the Romans at the Battle of Teutoburg Forest in 9 CE.
The statue was inspired by another monument called the Hermannsdenkmal, which is located in Detmold Germany and bears a striking similarity.
From the base to the tip of Hermann's sword, the monument is 105 feet tall. Visitors can climb up a spiral staircase on the monument to view the town from above.
New Ulm is one of the most enchanting German towns in Minnesota. You don’t need to book an international flight to experience authentic German culture in all its wonderful flair. Take a trip to New Ulm and see a side of Minnesota that is truly unique.
Have you ever been to New Ulm? What did you do there? Be sure to share in the comments below!
If you’re interested in another charming Minnesota town, check out Wabasha, the oldest town in the state.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: New Ulm, MN 56073, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
New Ulm
October 07, 2022
Christina Arrascaeta
What is a scenic town in Minnesota?
Minnesota is fortunate enough to have many scenic towns within its state lines. One such town is Biwabik, Minnesota. The town of only 1,000 residents is home to buildings and structures inspired by European architecture. Add to that the tranquil landscape of flowing waters and tall mountains and you will understand why it is a top choice for travelers in search of beauty.
What are the most unique towns in Minnesota?
Lanesboro, Minnesota is considered the B&B capital of the state! It may not come as a surprise given that the town encompasses a scenic byway and plenty of outdoor exploration. Another unique town is Two Harbors, a lakeside getaway that, as its name implies, has two harbors along Lake Superior.
What is Minnesota known for?
It is hard not to think of lakes when thinking of Minnesota. As the Land of 10,000 lakes, it is home to watersports and outdoor adventures. Visitors can also shop at the Mall of America, the largest indoor mall in the country.
Minnesota In Your Inbox
Thank you! You'll receive your first newsletter soon!
Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.