This sample itinerary can be customized for any time of year.
Situated along the scenic Cannon River, just south of Minneapolis and Saint Paul and northwest of Rochester, you will find the Northfield area. Whether you enjoy history, the arts, nature, or shopping, you’ll find everything you need in this classic American river town. Discover one-of-a-kind restaurants, live music and theatre, and a variety of comfortable lodging options for your group.
Day One
1. Fall in love with downtown Northfield! With shops galore, there is something for everyone. Your group can lunch on their own, and then top off the afternoon with a cupcake and a good cup of coffee.
2. Check into one of Northfield’s many group-friendly hotels and freshen up for the evening!
3. Enjoy contemporary dining with neighborhood charm at The Ole Store Restaurant. Their seasonal menus are designed to showcase local ingredients, fresh produce, and the finest meats.
4. Enjoy an after-dinner cocktail at Loon Liquors—makers of organic, nationally awarded gin and whiskey. Or just head back to your hotel for some relaxation.
Day Two
1. Visit Fossum Family Farm, LLC and meet the alpacas! Shop at The Alpaca Farm Store, offering raw fiber, yarn, handmade items, and commercially made alpaca products. With around 90 alpacas on the farm, plus their newest adventure—yaks!—there is always a lot to see and do. Tours are by appointment.
2. Your first stop is in Faribault at The Faribault Woolen Mill Co. Here, along the Cannon River, a 150-year-old story is still being woven. One of the last vertical woolen mills in America, these fifth generation craftspeople take raw wool and create products of outstanding comfort and quality. Shop their vast collection of blankets, throws, scarves and accessories.
3. Visitors travel for miles to get a taste of the world-class cheeses made at Caves of Faribault. In 1854 a German immigrant named Gottfried Fleckenstein began using these natural sandstone caves for brewing and storing beer. Fleckenstein Brewing Co. operated here until 1919 when Prohibition was imposed. Due to federal regulations, public tours are not offered at the caves, but you can sample and purchase their famous cheeses at The Cheese Cave in downtown Faribault.
4. Take a trip to Owatonna to shop at Cabela’s! The 150,000-square-foot retail showroom is packed with outdoor equipment and experienced outfitters who are ready to help you get the most out of your next adventure. Head downtown for some more fun shopping!
