For Outdoor Enthusiasts
Winona’s summer landscape is your ultimate playground for adventure and exploration! Hike or bike along scenic bluff trails through hardwood forests, paddleboard, kayak, or canoe at Lake Lodge or the majestic Mississippi River, and conquer thrilling rock-climbing routes up our towering Sugar Loaf Bluff. With endless options and easy equipment rentals, every adventure is just waiting for you.
Featured Summer Events
Great River Shakespeare Festival
The Great River Shakespeare Festival in Winona is a Midwest treasure, renowned for its national cast and acclaimed productions. Celebrating over 20 years of excellence, this festival draws more than 10,000 attendees each year. Beginning in late June and running through July, it’s a summer highlight where Shakespeare’s timeless works come to life in a vibrant and intimate setting. Don’t miss this premier theatrical experience in the heart of Winona!
Minnesota Beethoven Festival
Every July, Winona shines with the brilliance of the Minnesota Beethoven Festival. This world-class event has hosted legends such as Yo-Yo Ma and Joshua Bell plus many others, and every year it offers a new slate of performers as stunning as the city’s scenic views. For a small city to attract such international acclaim is nothing short of extraordinary—don’t miss it!
Steamboat Days
Steamboat Days transforms Winona into a five-day extravaganza of fun, celebrating its paddle-wheeler roots with nightly live music, a bustling carnival, and one of the biggest parades south of the Twin Cities. From cornhole battles to a kid's fishing contest, fair food favorites plus local flavors to savor, this Mississippi River party is a high-energy celebration of history, community, and epic fun.
Full Calendar of Upcoming Events
Our expansive, searchable calendar contains all types of events, whether you’re looking for things to do in the evening or during the day. Also, if you are planning a visit, you can sign up for our monthly or weekly overview of things to do to get your adventure-planning wheels turning!
Ask A Local
We have local experts who are excited to answer your questions. View some of our frequently asked questions or submit one of your own. We have answers!