Discover the picturesque city of Winona, nestled within the bluffs of the majestic Mississippi River. This safe and vibrant community is brimming with outdoor adventure, the arts, and a vibrant cultural scene, making Winona more than a unique destination — it's a place to discover new experiences and enrich your college journey with adventure.
Fall in love with breathtaking views and a close-knit community. Its small-town charm, along with a population of around 25,964, will help create a sense of belonging. In Winona, you'll find a place where you’ll be welcomed, supported, and encouraged to be an active member of the community. Welcome to Winona, where amazing experiences create the best memories.
Explore nature’s playground.
Get ready to dive into the great outdoors as you explore the beauty of our rugged bluffs, winding valleys, and the mighty Mississippi River. Whether it’s sunshine or snowfall, there’s an outdoor adventure waiting for you at every turn. Location is everything, and at Saint Mary’s, a diverse natural playground is right in your backyard.
Choose from 57 trails to hike or bike, paddle across the waters of Lake Winona by canoe or kayak, and make your mark on perfectly groomed ski or snowshoe trails. If you’re up for a challenge, scale the heights of Sugar Loaf, towering over 500 feet above the city, and soak in Winona’s stunning views from a new angle.
- Garvin Heights Park
- Lake Park and Lake Winona
- Bluffside Park Trail System
- Great River Bluffs State Park
- John A. Latsch State Park
- Winona County Bike Loop
- Whitewater State Park
- Mississippi River Water Trails
- Holzinger Lodge Trail
- Levee Park
Satisfy any craving.
With more than 50 one-of-a-kind eateries in and around Winona, take your taste buds on a journey at beloved local gems like Miya Japanese Bistro, Beno’s Deli, Rocco’s Pizza, and Sapori di Sicilia. Cozy up at one of Winona’s charming coffeehouses and enjoy the sweet life at Bloedows’s Bakery.
Need a hangout spot to hit the books or enjoy a night out with friends? Winona has it all — good food, good vibes, and good times.
- Mango’s Mexican & American Grill
- Sliced
- Nosh Scratch Kitchen
- Lakeview Drive Inn
- Big Muddy Brew 'n Que
- Blooming Grounds
- Acoustic Café
- Blue Heron Coffeehouse
- Nate & Ally’s
- Sammy's Pizza
Find your thrill.
Live music, theatre, museums, even storytelling — Winona has something for everyone year-round. With festivals celebrating everything from a week-long film fest to a boot-scooting good time along the shores of the Mighty Mississippi — there’s always a reason to celebrate and share good times in Winona.
- Frozen River Festival
- Minnesota Marine Art Museum
- Westgate Bowl
- Winona 7 Theatres
- Mid West Music Fest
- Boats & Bluegrass Festival
- Sandbar Storytelling Festival
- Great River Shakespeare Festival
Winona means business.
Apply your classroom knowledge to the real world, even before you graduate. Gain hands-on experience with internships at local businesses and international corporations headquartered in Winona. Notable regional businesses include:
- Benchmark Electronics
- Cathedral Crafts
- Fastenal
- Miller Ingenuity
- St. Croix Clothing
- Thern
- Watkins
- Wenonah Canoe
- Willet Hauser
- Wincraft by Fanatics
Where is Winona?
Located in southwestern Minnesota and with a touch of small-town charm, Winona is surrounded by an abundance of awe-inspiring nature — with urban life never far away. Going home for the weekend or planning a road trip? Winona is closer than you think.
Get on board with Amtrak.
Getting home for the holidays or taking a weekend trip is easier than ever with Amtrak’s daily schedules and destinations like Chicago, St. Paul/Minneapolis, Milwaukee, and La Crosse. Students save 15% on top destinations!
What’s happening in Winona?
Don’t miss all the excitement and events happening year-round in Winona. Experience this exciting city with the perfect blend of nature, adventure, the arts, and so much more waiting to be discovered.
Visit Winona today and let your journey begin!