Explore Mower County through a wide range of experiences: interactive exhibits, historic sites, and landscapes that invite exploration. Those looking to combine culture and nature will find practical ideas here—from a playful museum visit to trails through prairie and parkland.
Discover Culture and History
At the SPAM® Museum, interactive exhibits with quizzes and games make exploring fun. Visitors who enjoy engaging actively with exhibits will find a different experience here than on a tour of historic buildings: puzzles and games are an integral part of the exhibits.
The Hormel Historic Home was built in 1871 and preserves the legacy of George A. and Lillian Hormel’s family. The year it was built provides a historical point of reference; the home’s significance also lies in its connection to the family’s history. A specific historical date and the family history passed down through generations thus offer two distinct ways of connecting with the past.
The Mower County Historical Society offers tours Tuesdays through Fridays at 1 p.m. during its regular tour season, from May through September. The set days and times are important when planning: check the current schedule in advance if you would like to take a tour.
Lake Louise Dam also tells a story of change: it was built in 1925 after its predecessor was swept away in a flood in the early 20th century. This sequence highlights the difference between the structure that stands today and its predecessor, without placing them in the same period.
Prairie, Water and Trails
The Jay C. Hormel Nature Center encompasses more than 500 acres of prairie, forests, and wetlands. These three landscape types offer nature enthusiasts a range of things to explore. At Lake Louise State Park, meanwhile, the restored tallgrass prairie includes Big Bluestem, Indian Grass, and other prairie plants. The named grasses bring the character of this prairie to life.
Lake Louise Beach offers a sandy beach on the shore of Lake Louise. In the same park, a picnic shelter has picnic tables and electrical outlets. Those who want to explore beyond the shoreline can check out the Lake View Trail, which is used by hikers and horseback riders. The park’s horse area is the starting point for its horseback riding trail network. A campground with 20 semi-developed campsites adds another option for staying in the park; camping is a different type of accommodation than a hotel.
The Shooting Star State Trail is paved for about 29 miles between LeRoy and Austin and runs through Lake Louise State Park. A paved trail connects it to the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center in Austin. Native wildflowers and grasses are a special feature of both the trail and the Shooting Star Wildflower and Historic Route Scenic Byway, also known as Highway 56. Parking for the trail is available at Lake Louise State Park; a vehicle permit is required. Check the current permit information and trail conditions before your visit.
More Activities
For a shorter walk, Shirley Theel Memorial Park has a trail about half a mile long. Todd Park offers an 18-hole disc golf course as another activity. Fishing is a popular activity in the Group Camp Bridge area of Lake Louise State Park. These options offer a clear choice: a walking trail, disc golf, or time by the water, each suited to different interests.
Discover more destinations: Austin, Otter Tail County, Olmsted, Winona County, Dodge County, Rice County, Hennepin, Mille Lacs
For the main travel overview: Minnesota.
