GEOGRAPHY LESSON
Located in the Zumbro River Valley, Zumbrota was founded in 1856 by settlers from New England, an influence visible in the architecture of the covered bridge and the First Congregational church, listed on the National Register of Historic Places (455 East Av.; 1-507-732-7015; www.ucczumbrota.com). The Zumbro River bisects the town just north of its main commercial district. The French called the river embarrass, meaning obstruction. The Dakota thought the French were saying, "Umbro," and the settlers added a Z, resulting in the name Zumbrota. The southern portion of the Goodhue Pioneer Trail starts in Zumbrota; it will eventually connect to Red Wing (www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_trails/goodhue_pioneer/index.html).
GETTING THERE
From the Twin Cities, it's about 60 miles to Zumbrota via Hwy. 52. To get downtown, take the Hwy. 60 exit toward Zumbrota. Follow W. 5th Street to Main Street.
CHECKING IN
Guests at the Barteau House Bed and Breakfast (10 Jefferson Dr.; 1-507-732-4466; www.barteauhouse.com) can explore the home's four acres of grounds, which feature a pergola, fish pond and fountain. The 1895 Queen Anne Victorian home received an award from the Preservation Alliance of Minnesota for its restoration in 1998.
Another restored Victorian in town at 182 E. 9th St. (1-507-202-5698; www.vrbo.com/242884) is available for nightly and weekly rental for groups of up to 12 people.
DINING
Zumbrota has a few mom and pop restaurants and a couple of fast-food options. A standout is Bridget's Cafe (365 Main St.; 1-507-732-4646), known for its excellent coffee, homemade soups and tasty wrap sandwiches and burgers. The Bakery Barn (654 Main St.; 1-507-732-7771) sells delectable maple long johns and apple fritters. Despite its name, the Covered Bridge Restaurant (1439 Northstar Dr.; 1-507-732-7321) isn't near the bridge; it's on the edge of town, visible from Hwy. 52. It serves prime rib, ribs and other supper club fare.
If you have the time, it's worth the 10-mile drive south of Zumbrota on Hwy. 52 to eat at the Rainbow Cafe in Pine Island (212 S. Main St.; 1-507-356-2929; www.rainbowcafepineisland.com). Husband and wife owners Jeremy Olson and Jennifer Richards-Olson have transformed the 1940s-era cafe into a modern bistro, while retaining longtime favorites like the fish fry. The menu changes seasonally and often features ingredients from local farms such as grass-fed lamb and free-range chicken. Save room for one of Jen's amazing desserts.
MORE INFORMATION
Visit the city's website at www.ci.zumbrota.mn.us or call 1-507-732-7318.
JOY RIGGS
