In Faribault County, the Blue Earth River meets the West Branch Blue Earth River; from there, it flows north for 108 miles along a winding course through the eastern part of Faribault County. Things to do in Blue Earth include a paved multi-use trail, several parks, and cultural attractions. This offers a range of ways to shape your stay, whether you prefer rivers and prairie, park activities, or local history and events.
River Scenery and Prairie
The course of the Blue Earth River offers a tangible connection to the county’s landscape: after meeting the West Branch, the river follows its winding course north for 108 miles. This provides a different perspective from a visit to Osmundson Prairie Scientific and Natural Area. There, you’ll find a mesic tallgrass prairie community. The natural area is also home to rare, threatened, or endangered plant species, including Tuberous Indian Plantain and Rattlesnake Master. For nature enthusiasts, the region’s character encompasses both an expansive river course and a distinctive prairie community.
Trails and Parks in Blue Earth
The Unity Trail is three miles long, paved, and designed for multiple uses. It begins at the Faribault County Fairgrounds and ends at a rest area north of Interstate 90. Along the way, it passes through grassland and wooded areas. Its length, surface, and route make it easy to plan a visit; the trail is distinct from the individual recreational offerings at the parks.
Blue Earth’s parks offer a variety of activities. Putnam Park is home to the municipal swimming pool and a disc golf course. Piano Park has several play structures for children. The fenced Blue Earth Dog Park has an off-leash area for dogs of all sizes. These amenities cater to different interests and are spread across several locations.
At Steinberg Nature Park, interpretive signs help visitors learn about the area. The park also has an open shelter and restrooms, and its surroundings offer a place to observe, experience, and appreciate nature. Woods Lake Park has a natural, pond-like swimming area and plantings of native prairie species. If you’re planning to swim, check in advance whether the swimming area is currently open.
Depot, Attractions, and Culture
The Wells Railroad Depot is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been restored. Specific details at the Wells Railroad Depot Museum recall its use: the original freight scale, ticket window, and solid wood floors are preserved there. Those interested in railroad history and historic buildings will find more here than just a name on an attractions list.
Another local landmark is the Jolly Green Giant statue, which has stood in Giant Park since 1979. Its address is 1134 Giant Drive; it is located half a mile south of Interstate 90 on Highway 169. The Giant Memorabilia Museum has the world’s largest collection of Green Giant memorabilia. The statue and museum offer two different points of interest: a widely recognized landmark and a collection dedicated to the subject.
Fair and Performances
The Faribault County Fair was established in 1859. Its fairgrounds are in Blue Earth, cover approximately 53 acres, and are shaded by tall oak trees. The fair’s program includes open-class competitions, agricultural contests and demonstrations, free entertainment, and activities for children and adults. Since specific schedules may change, it’s a good idea to check the dates and program before visiting.
Theater and concerts are also among the cultural offerings described here. The Blue Earth Town & Country Players perform a musical every summer and a Christmas theater production every December. The Blue Earth Valley Concert Association presents a series of professional concerts each year; performers and specific dates may vary. Check the respective schedules before your trip.
Discover more destinations: Wells, Blue Earth, Chippewa County, Roseau, Wright County, Clay County, Redwood County, Murray.
For the main travel overview: Minnesota.
