New Ulm offers several different points of interest for a culture-focused stay: the Wanda Gag House, the childhood home of children’s author and illustrator Wanda Gag; a Glockenspiel with moving figures; the Hermann Monument; and the Brown County Historical Society Museum. There is also a seasonal farmers market. These places offer a range of experiences—from art and architecture to city and regional history, as well as locally grown food and handmade goods. You can decide which interests matter most to you before choosing hotels for your stay in New Ulm.
Art at the Wanda Gag House
The Wanda Gag House was the childhood home of renowned children’s author and illustrator Wanda Gag. The restored building is designed in the Queen Anne style. Exhibits include lithographs, drawings and paintings by Wanda Gag, paintings by Anton Gag and Flavia Gag, and books created by Wanda and Flavia. For visitors who want to understand Wanda Gag as both an illustrator and a children’s author, the books provide a point of reference alongside the graphic and painted works. Visits are available year-round by appointment; arrange your visit in advance.
The Glockenspiel: Music and Figures
The Glockenspiel offers a different cultural experience from the Wanda Gag House: here, music and moving figures take center stage rather than exhibited works. It is 45 feet tall and has 37 bells with a combined weight of more than two tons. During scheduled musical performances, twelve figures rotate on a moving stage. They represent important people, industries and traditions that have contributed to New Ulm’s history. The dimensions give an idea of the structure’s size, while the figures connect it to the city’s history.
Monument and Museum: History on Site
In 2000, the US Congress declared the Hermann Monument a national symbol of German heritage. Visitors can climb a staircase to enjoy panoramic views of New Ulm and the river valley.
The Brown County Historical Society Museum is housed in New Ulm’s former post office, dating from 1910; the building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Three levels of exhibits cover the history of Brown County, the US–Dakota War of 1862, local businesses and families. The museum also has a research library with resources on genealogy and local history. Its exhibits on regional topics are complemented by research materials for those interested in family and local history.
Farmers Market and Cycling Routes
The New Ulm Farmers Market is a seasonal destination for locally grown food and handmade goods. Most markets feature live music, and activities for children are also planned. Unlike the historical exhibits, the focus here is on seasonal market offerings and goods. Designated cycling routes in New Ulm connect the Bike Circle Route with local attractions and downtown.
Discover more destinations: Sleepy Eye
Return to the broader travel overview: Brown County.
