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Spring has finally arrived, which means the sun is shining, flowers are blooming, and families can spend time outside enjoying the weather. This time of year, there are many fun things to do together, such as exploring nature, biking, and picnicking. Here is a list of our favorite springtime activities near Rochester, MN. more Pack the Ford and Check Out These 3 Favorite Springtime Activities Near Rochester, MN Rochesterfest Make the most of the warm weather by starting your summer festivities at Rochesterfest, the city's annual week-long celebration. Mark your calendar for Rochesterfest, which brings the city to life in late June. The festival is an excellent opportunity to relax in the sun and catch up with friends and family. You can also participate in the family-friendly 3-mile run or walk or the evening-blacklight run for a more daring race. You can also attend other popular family events, such as a movie in the park or a magic show with your children. Alternatively, spend a date night competing in trivia or a game show with your partner. Rochesterfest has been a favorite event for decades, and you can enjoy fantastic live music, eat delicious food, and compete in their triathlon. Quarry Hill Nature Center Spend a day hiking or watching nature at the Quarry Hill Nature Center, located a few miles from downtown Rochester. Quarry Hill Nature Center is a 329-acre park home to more than 35 different native animal species. Bring your binoculars and spend the day in the center spotting different animals and birds. The Quarry Hill Nature Center also has a 1700-gallon aquarium with seven different types of fish and two raptors. There are numerous miles of hiking and biking trails in the park, so make sure you park your mountain bike in your spacious Ford F-150 ahead of time. Families can go fossil hunting, watch a bee-hive show, and explore the artificial sandstone Quarry Hill Cave in the center. There is a large playground and open play area where kids can run around, play, and interact. The park also has several picnic shelters ideal for a delightful picnic meal on a sunny afternoon. Tap House Spring is an excellent time to treat yourself to a dinner and cocktail at the Tap House, one of Rochester's stylish outdoor patios. The Tap House on Historic Third Street is well-known for its 50 beers on tap, as well as its spacious and well-decorated rooftop seating with heaters and a large fireplace for chilly evenings. Please drink responsibly and in moderation. It's a lovely spot for a romantic date night beneath the majestic skylight. They also serve delicious treats like wraps, sandwiches, and tasty burgers. Shareable meals like chips, queso, salsa, and guacamole are famous, while the mango sunrise Pina Coladas, rum punch, and blackberry mojitos are all fantastic. Please don't drink and drive. Rochester has several distinct locations for a variety of spring and summer activities. As you travel from one place to another, ensure you have suitable transportation. Please contact Rochester Ford today to purchase a new or used Ford.

Are you in the mood for a fun day out? Good news - there are plenty of exciting, interesting things to do in and around Rochester, MN. So whether you want to check out some art or pack up the Ford Escape to take your family on a day trip, there are always fun places to keep you busy. more 5 Fun Places to Explore Near Rochester, MN 1. Rochester Art Center Dive head-first into breathtaking art and culture at the Rochester Art Center. All kinds of multimedia fill this beautiful, quiet gallery, which is constantly presenting new pieces as part of its commitment to being non-collecting. That means you can go again and again and experience new art every time. The Emerging Artist Series is particularly wonderful, as the center works with emerging artists to help them produce new works. 2. Harmony Just 50 minutes South-East of Rochester is Harmony, a small town (that's surprisingly big) packed with things to do and see. Harmony Park has one of the best playgrounds around, while Trail Head Park boasts scenic views of the countryside. You can even go spelunking in the Niagara Cave! Harmony is also home to some of Minnesota's largest Amish settlements, so why not take a guided tour of the Amish Homesteads while you're there? 3. Downtown Peace Plaza Shopping, dining, and easy-to-navigate walkways that lead to downtown are all part of what makes this Rochester staple so great. If you've been saving up for a rainy day, or you're just due for a new pair of pants, make a day of your shopping trip and stop for lunch and or a coffee while you're down there! There are events constantly on at the plaza, from fresh air fitness sessions to pop-up art carts where the kids can do watercolor painting. 4. Bloomington Another day trip worth taking is the hour-and-a-half-long journey to Bloomington. Enjoy your Ford's SYNC 3 infotainment system on the way there and back and the drive will fly by! Home of the Mall of America and the Nickelodeon Universe theme park, this is one the young folk (or the young at heart folk) are going to be particularly excited for. For animal lovers, check out the Minnesota Sea Life Aquarium or the Minnesota Zoo. If that all sounds a bit hectic, you can always just sit by the Minnesota River and enjoy the view. 5. Douglas State Trail Put on your walking shoes, because the Douglas State Trail is a hefty 12.5 miles long. Not that you have to walk the whole thing - or even walk at all! Passers-through can ride their bikes, skate, or even ride horses along this incredible trail that leads to Pine Island via Douglas. The trail is incredibly scenic, plus along the way, you can look for signs of the Chicago Great Western Railway that used to have a track along the path. Those are just a few of our favorite places to explore around Rochester. With all these options, we wouldn't be surprised if you've booked out every weekend for the next month! Once you're back from your day on the town, stop by Rochester Ford and see what we have in stock.

If you're planning for your future or the future of a loved one, education will be crucial. These best schools and best colleges in and around Rochester, MN can help put you on the path to success. 4 of the Best Schools and Best Colleges Near Rochester, MN 1. University of Minnesota Rochester Beginning as a branch of the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, this ever-growing downtown locale has established a reputation for student-centered service and scientific excellence all its own. Aspiring healthcare professionals will find an especially formative education here, as major degrees include the Bachelor of Science in Health Professions and the Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences. A partnership with the nearby Mayo Clinic School of Health Science fosters even more professional opportunities. Students studying at the university can jointly earn a certificate from Mayo by undertaking coursework in specialties like respiratory care and radiography. This healthcare-centered campus graduated its first class in 2013, and with its access to the local medical community, the future is bright. 2. Rochester Community and Technical College For students who prefer a smaller setting and more personalized interaction, this junior college presents the perfect option. It's Minnesota's oldest two-year college, so its reputation for educational excellence is long-standing. Students can earn degrees in both traditional academic majors and in vocational and technical fields. Offerings range from short-term courses with certification to doctoral-level studies. Given its plentiful choices, internships and on-the-job training are central components of a student's learning. Developing a strong regional workforce remains a top mission of this college, which is why acceptance rates are high and tuition runs on the low side. Individuals who want to take their education further also have the option of transferring to a four-year school to complete their studies. 3. Saint Mary's University of Minnesota This private, four-year liberal arts institution spans 40 majors (from accounting to zoology) and has campuses in Rochester and other nearby localities. You can also complete some of the bachelor's, certification, and graduate programs online. Inclusivity and respect are a focus of the community and to the mission of the university, so a welcoming, friendly atmosphere is integral. Holistic development is key as well. With an 18:1 student to faculty ratio, you will never feel left behind or lost in the crowd. A full roster of athletics like baseball, cross country, hockey, and basketball will give you plentiful chances to show your Cardinal pride. Clubs, ministries, and study abroad opportunities are just a few of the other avenues for making your student life a memorable one. 4. Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science This educational branch of the world-renowned Mayo Clinic attracts top students from around the country and across the globe. The faculty consists of the most respected and experienced members of the medical field, and research opportunities are equally unparalleled. Every year, around 1,800 trainees participate in over 300 graduate-level programs in the School of Medicine and the School of Continuous Professional Development.  This training will prepare them for a prestigious career in medicine. Journey into your future with an exciting new ride. Visit Rochester Ford and browse an inventory that represents auto innovation at its finest.

Dining out with your spouse and children is a great opportunity to spend quality time together. You can talk about the day, and upcoming events, and laugh with each other. Some of the best memories can be made this way. Any of these family restaurants in and around Rochester, MN make for a great meal. more 3 Favorite Family Restaurants in and Around Rochester, MN 1. Star Ocean Buffet Located at 1320 Salem Rd SW, this eatery is open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM. Dine-in and takeout are both available. Several choices are offered on the buffet. One bar contains all the trimmings to make a great chef's salad with various dressing choices. Other bars have pork on a stick, sweet and sour sauce, battered chicken pieces, sushi, vegetable fried rice, soup, and other Oriental foods. The crab meat rangoons are an excellent choice. A dessert bar is also offered, full of cookies, small cakes, fruits, and ice cream. The dining room is very large, making it perfect for gatherings. The staff are kind and work continuously to keep the buffet wiped down. It features a pond and a waterfall that are gorgeous. There are many Koi fish in the water that is soothing to watch after eating. 2. Canadian Honker Canadian Honker is a place that is veteran-run. Located across the street from St. Mary's hospital at 1203 2nd St. SW, they serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They are known for their world-famous Bunnie's coconut cake. There are specials for both children and senior citizens. You can start your meal off with appetizers, like fried cheese curds or chicken strips. Soups, salads, burgers, steaks, wraps, melts, and more are offered on the menu. And they don't forget dessert, which includes choices of coconut cake, chocolate raspberry cake, and peanut butter pie. A daily feature is the Canadian fresh walleye, which can be prepared in 5 different ways. 3. Chester's Kitchen and Bar Perfect for a meal with the kids, Chester's is open Sunday through Friday from 10:30 AM to 10:00 PM and on Saturday from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM. They are located at 111 Broadway Ave. S. There is a kiddie menu that has options such as chicken fingers, mac & cheese, and noodles with red sauce. A brunch menu includes oatmeal pancakes, frittata carbonara, and buffalo shrimp. Also on this menu are key lime pie, bottomless mimosas, and Irish coffee. Options for adults include chili, a soup of the day, salads, Baby Back BBQ ribs, New York strip steaks, walleye, and salmon. Finish off your meal with a slice of banana cream pie, bread pudding, or chocolate cake. There are so many dining options for your household with a wide variety of options in town. Stop at Star Ocean Buffet for the best crab rangoons you have ever had, or take a trip to Canadian Honker for the world-famous coconut cake. And don't forget, Chester's has many options that will leave your tastebuds happy. Once you are done, swing by Rochester Ford to see what we can do for you.

In Rochester, MN, we're blessed with some very nice seafood places. Don't be surprised by that: in the modern world, fresh seafood is just a short ship away, and thank goodness for that. When the craving hits, be sure to visit one of the best seafood restaurants in our town. more The Top 4 Seafood Restaurants in and Around Rochester, MN Ichi Tokyo If you love good sushi (and who doesn't?) then this should be your first stop. This is a casual place with lots of choices, so even if you don't love raw fish, you'll find something to love on this menu. And, there's free parking, the staff are great and love kids, and the service is fast and friendly. Try the seafood soup, the seaweed salad, and the lobster sauce, which you should basically pour on everything. We love their shrimp tempura and steamed shrimp dumplings, too. You can get all the standard sushi delights here, but don't ignore the great coconut shrimp, or King of the Sea, which is grilled lobster tail with scallops and shrimp. Francisco's Head to a whole other part of the world and try the seafood at this traditional Cuban/Caribbean place. The building is small, but the owners are really friendly and will personally make sure you have a good time. It's also very easy to order online. We recommend you try the Caribbean fish sandwich: it's great. Try the ropa vieja, the pastries, and whatever fish special is in for the day. They're all great. The Cuban slaw that goes with it all is hard to stop eating. Pescara This is a fine-dining spot with upscale offerings that make it perfect for a date night or a celebration. Of course, you can get chops and steaks here, but the seafood is really the star. Their brunch is not something you want to miss. If you go at lunch, try the bang bang calamari or the fresh oysters. For dinner, the Insignia scallops and the cioppino are amazing. You can also order a la carte from whatever fresh fish and seafood they have available each day. Be assured that it's very fresh. Cameo Seafood isn't the only thing on the menu at Cameo's, but what they offer is amazing, and it's always fresh. If they can't get it fresh, they just won't offer it, so you can feel confident every time you order. And, if we can start with dessert (and we can, as we're adults), we'd like especially recommend their bread pudding. Great seafood to try here include the blackened fish tacos, Pei mussels, and the tuna tartare. Their salmon is served with an asparagus vichyssoise that will make you love vegetables again. Shrimp and grits, anyone? You'll want to try theirs, with the country ham and bacon jam. Try the Szechuan green beans with your meal, and ask them to pair you a great wine with your food. If you drink, please do so in moderation and never drink and drive. When you've had your fill of seafood, come see us at Rochester Ford. We have a large inventory, a great staff, and the best service around for your vehicle.

If you're planning a drive through Rochester, MN, you'll find some great spots to enjoy a weekend brunch, light breakfast, or takeout for the road. You'll find some of the best breakfast places in and around town whether you're visiting for the day or just a few hours. more 4 of the Best Breakfast Places in Rochester, MN 1. Benedict's This fantastic restaurant is well-known for its spectacular brunch menu, cocktails, and lunch plates. You'll love this diner's delicious meals, including seven styles of eggs benedict, signature pancakes, biscuits and gravy, breakfast burritos, and more. Benedict's offers great coffee, tea, and an impressive selection of cocktails, including Mimosas and Bloody Marys. It's the perfect place to enjoy a tasty brunch and drinks with friends over the weekend. Benedict's features a comfortable, laid-back dining space and friendly service. It's one of the top diners to enjoy all your favorite breakfast and lunch dishes on your next trip to town. This diner is open seven days a week, with the option for takeout service. Please drink responsibly. 2. Hollandberry Pannekoeken If you've never tried a Dutch-style pancake before, you'll want to try a plate of delicious Pannekoeken. These Dutch pancakes are a featured item on this breakfast restaurant's menu. You'll love the wide variety of toppings for sweet and savory flavors, including meats and sauteed vegetables, sweet berries, and fresh fruits. This fantastic eatery offers a great variety of sandwiches, baked goods, and coffee. This restaurant is ideal if you're looking for a unique breakfast dish and a great place to dine with the family. This cafe offers an impressive assortment of muffins, pastries, and treats you can order for takeout, and delivery is also available. 3. Grandma's Kitchen Grandma's Kitchen is a fantastic place to enjoy homestyle cooking at its finest. This wonderful diner offers delicious coffee, pancakes, roast beef sandwiches, biscuits and gravy, and classic egg platters for breakfast. You'll enjoy the comfortable atmosphere of the dining room, with cheerful decorations and friendly service. There's a soda fountain, a great drink selection, and tasty desserts. If you prefer to visit later in the day, the diner also features an amazing lunch and dinner selection and a kids' menu. This local favorite has been a top diner in the Rochester area since the late 1970s and continues to be a popular place for delicious food and drinks today. 4. Blue Plate Diner Blue Plate Diner is an excellent, down-to-earth eatery that features a comfortable dining room and casual, delicious meals. It's the ideal place to order your favorite comfort food dishes with a great cup of coffee. This eatery is one of the top places in the local neighborhood, offering reasonably-priced breakfast options served in generous portions. It's a great spot to enjoy a classic brunch or order takeout for the road. You'll encounter a wonderful variety of delicious breakfast and brunch meals in and around Rochester. Visit us at Rochester Ford and discover our impressive showroom inventory of new and pre-owned vehicles today. We offer incredible deals to suit all your driving, lifestyle, and budget needs.

When hunger strikes and you have an appetite for a simple but satisfying meal, the perfect sandwich hits the spot as very few food items do. The combination of bread, meat, toppings, and spices creates the perfect harmony for your tastebuds - and tummy. Rochester, MN is full of incredible sandwich places for you to visit and enjoy! Keep reading to learn more about them. more 5 Great Sandwich Places in and Around Rochester, MN Canadian Honker Our friends from the north are well-known for ice hockey and maple syrup, but they also make a mean sandwich! Their famous fried fish sandwich known as the Canadian Walleye sandwich is made with fresh fish imported directly from lake Winnipeg. It's dipped in homemade beer batter and then deep-fried - albeit slightly - to perfection. Add your favorite toppings and a side of their crispy onion rings and you'll have the perfect meal, eh? ZZest Lunch Counter at First Ave. Food Court Now before you start screaming blasphemy, we must admit that we too did not expect to find a glorious menu item at a food court. Buy ZZest Lunch Counter defied the odds, serving up one of the juiciest and most tender prime rib sandwiches we've ever bitten into. When it comes to sandwiches, details matter. And ZZest makes sure their cuts are not heavy in fat, but rather lean, well-seasoned, and slow-cooked to perfection. Chester's Kitchen & Bar Chester's serves up several delicious sandwiches and dishes but the one they're best known for is their Rotisserie Chicken sandwich. Be forewarned, this delicious dish is only available on the lunch menu and it sells out fast! So get there early to enjoy a mouthful. Their chicken is locally sourced and meticulously hand-rubbed with select spices, before being placed on the rotisserie. If you like a little spice in your life, the chipotle sauce and cayenne pepper will add the perfect touch. Five West Kitchen & Bar Prep your taste buds for some absolute magic between two slices of bread. Five West Kitchen & Bar raises the bar with their Blackened Chicken & Avocado Melt sandwich. The breast is tenderized and seasoned with cajun spices before being seared and blackened. The rest of the components are then added and enclosed between two slices of sourdough bread. The result? A taste explosion that will have you coming back for more. At Five West Kitchen & Bar, you're guaranteed a great atmosphere and great food. Half Barrel Bar & Kitchen In the mood for something a little lighter? Head to Half Barrel Bar & Kitchen and order their popular Midwest Chicken wrap. It contains all the necessary ingredients that make up a perfect wrap: fresh ingredients, well seasoned, perfectly balanced, and satisfying. You can even add an order of their homemade mac ‘n cheese if you're feeling a little more ambitious. It comes with pasta, fresh prosciutto, smoked gouda cheese, and breadcrumbs! Visit all of these fantastic restaurants in the comfort of a brand new or certified pre-owned Ford vehicle. Stop by Rochester Ford today for all of your automotive needs!

It's hard not to love Italian food, with all its mouthwatering flavors and delicious herbs. The good thing about living or visiting southern Minnesota is there's no shortage of amazing Italian restaurants near Rochester, MN. Whether it's for a quick lunch or a long-overdue date night dinner, Italian cuisine is super satisfying with flavorful food. Let's take a closer look at the best places to eat Italian food for a truly memorable meal with family and friends in Rochester. more The Top 5 Italian Restaurants Near Rochester MN 1. Pasquale's Neighborhood Pizzeria Established in 2016, Pasquale's Neighborhood Pizzeria is a downtown hotspot on 5th Street and an award-winning restaurant, making the cut on Rochester Magazine's Favorite Restaurants for three years in a row. The menu includes fabulous family pizzas, calzones, stromboli, and even a special selection of Nonna's Appetizers. You can come in for a hearty meal or get it delivered, and there are also take-home kitchen options with frozen, ready-to-eat Italian food. 2. Olive Garden Italian Restaurant Olive Garden Italian Restaurant is one of the most popular Italian-American eateries in the country, and the chain is famous for its fresh breadsticks and crunchy salads. The Rochester location is just northwest of downtown on 17th Avenue, so it's easily accessible and a great place to gather for lunch or dinner. You can look forward to chicken alfredo, spaghetti, gnocchi, or create your own pasta, all made with love and savory Italian herbs. 3. Terza Ristorante Terza Ristorante is a beautiful Italian restaurant on 3rd Street SE offering terrific Tuscan fare that earned it the Diners Choice Award in 2020. If you want hand-crafted Italian classics like bruschetta, meatballs, garlic shrimp, spaghetti, and chicken parmesan, then this fine dining restaurant is an excellent choice. It's also a popular wine bar with an impressive list of Italian wines, plus fancy cocktails and espresso for beverages just as good as the food. 4. Broadway Bar and Pizza Pizza lovers can't go past Broadway Bar and Pizza, situated on Highway 52 about five miles north of Rochester's city center. The Italian-American restaurant is open for lunch, dinner, and late-night eats with vegetarian and gluten-free options available. From classic spaghetti and meatballs to loaded potato pizza and Italian cheese bread, you can fill up on the most delicious carbs with plenty of hoagies and handhelds and a refreshing drink menu too. 5. Fazoli's Fazoli's is another convenient Italian eatery on Highway 52 offering fast Italian fare you can enjoy for takeout or delivery too. The signature garlic breadsticks and hearty family meals are tough to beat, especially with fun new dishes like fried mozzarella skewers and lobster mac and cheese. There are meal deals for a quick lunch pit stop, plus a slice of Cheesecake Factory goodness for dessert. The chicken parm snacks and shareable are worth a try too! To get to all the fabulous restaurants Rochester has to offer when you get a craving for Italian food, check out the top new and used vehicles from Rochester Ford today.

Drivers looking for a midsize SUV with a sharp style, impeccable traction, and improved capabilities, should look no further than the 2021 Ford Edge. This crossover SUV is equipped with some notable luxuries, from its comfortable and spacious interior to its sleek and modern exterior. The trims of this vehicle begin around $33,000 for the base model and $43,000 for its premium trim. more An Up-Close Guide to the 2021 Ford Edge Impressive Standard Features Many standard features come equipped on every model of the 2021 Edge that are often only seen on higher trim levels or with upgraded packages. The base model, the SE, comes with alloy rims, keyless entry, LED headlights, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Push-button start also comes standard among the lineup. A Smooth and Balanced Ride An important aspect of any vehicle is its firm, predictable, and comfortable driving dynamics. The Edge surpasses all expectations with its excellent handling around curves and superior stability on the highway. Unwanted exterior noise won't be a problem in this well-designed and soundproofed cabin. The minimal wind and road noise will certainly contribute to a relaxing and comfortable ride. Turbocharged Powertrains The 2021 Edge hits the ground running, with even the base engine being turbocharged. This 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder turbo engine generates an amazing 250 horsepower. For even more performance, the twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, which comes standard on the premium ST trim, produces a massive 355 horsepower. Both powertrains make for a sporty and fun driving experience. Excellent Fuel Economy Both of the turbocharged engines provide excellent fuel mileage among each trim level. The 4-cylinder turbo achieves an EPA estimated 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. The twin-turbocharged V6 motor has similar fuel ratings, with an EPA estimated 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. Advanced Driver-Assist Features A host of driver aids comes standard on the 2021 Edge. This collection of features is Ford's Co-Pilot 360 package. These extensive driver aids include blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert, pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, and advanced adaptive cruise control. It's easy to understand why the Ford Edge is an extremely reliable and safe car to own when you combine the state-of-the-art driving technology with the SUV's five-star crash rating. Sync 4 Infotainment System Every model of the 2021 Edge comes equipped with the fully integrated Sync 4 infotainment system, complete with a best-in-class 12-inch touchscreen. This system offers smartphone compatibility through Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, which gives you wireless access to all of your favorite apps and media streaming. A 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot also comes standard, and the in-dash navigation system is available in certain packages and trim levels. Searching for a midsize SUV can be a challenge, but when you compare the substantial performance and advanced technology that comes standard on every trim of the 2021 Edge, the choice is simple. This crossover beats out the competition at every level. To find out more or book a test drive, contact Rochester Ford today.

Rochester, MN has a number of great attractions to check out in your downtime. If you're looking to spend a night listening to some awesome live music, there's no shortage of places around this area that'll give you exactly what you're searching for. Here is a list of some of the best music venues in the city. more 5 Popular Live Music Venues in and Around Rochester, MN 1. North Star Bar Enjoy a weekend at the North Star Bar to catch one of the awesome bands often playing on their stage. The perfect place to come with friends, this spot offers a number of pool tables and dartboards, as well as cold drinks and excellent company. Remember to drink responsibly if you order from their wide selection of beer. With a heavy focus on promoting some of the best talents in the area, this venue is an ideal place for music lovers. 2. Kathy's Pub As electric as you can get, Kathy's Pub is a place that always brings a great crowd. Their stage hosts some of the best musical acts from all over, and the multiple floors offer many different games and activities to enjoy. Sit down and grab one of their pizzas, popular among returning customers, and when you're done, head to their rooftop lounge bringing a relaxing atmosphere you won't find anywhere else. 3. Civic Music This venue is the place to go if you enjoy outdoor performances with plenty of room to dance. Enjoy riverside concerts with friends, and relax or jump around on the well-kept grass in front of the stage. To experience a place focused entirely on providing great music to locals and visitors alike, head on over to Civic Music. 4. The Charlies Eatery & Pub The exciting atmosphere of this place is one that definitely shouldn't be missed. With a selection of games available, as well as events like karaoke nights, this place always has something going on. Sit at one of their tables and order from a menu of delicious meals, enjoying the live bands that often perform here. The staff are very helpful and the community that gathers is always welcoming, making this a comfortable place to hang out with a group of friends. 5. The Redwood Room One of the best places to come for a delicious meal while listening to some quality live performances, the Redwood Room has become a treasured spot among many in the area. The relaxing vibe of this place makes it a go-to spot for date night with a loved one but is also suitable for meeting with colleagues, or just a general hang-out spot with friends. There is often live music playing in this place, so order one of their expertly crafted cocktails and enjoy the show. Check out any of the places on the list above to see some of the best local bands and musicians in the area. Whether you want to sit down with a meal while you listen, or take the dance floor with friends, these spots will have everything you're looking for. While you're here, stop by Rochester Ford for a great selection of high-quality vehicles for sale, as well as some premium services and parts.

Golf is a great way to spend time with friends or loved ones. It's also an excellent opportunity to explore the natural beauty of our world. Whether you are looking for a challenging course, scenic views, or just want to enjoy some fresh air and sunshine, there are many golf courses near Rochester, MN that will suit your needs. more 4 of the Best Golf Courses Near Rochester, MN 1. Rochester Golf & Country Club The Rochester Golf & Country Club is a fantastic place to begin. The course has 18 holes and plays at just over 6500 yards. It's also considered one of the longest courses near Rochester by most players around here. The course layout is a bit tricky, as there are lots of bunkers and water hazards to watch out for. So, if you're in the mood for a good challenge and don't mind playing around water hazards, this is the perfect course. 2. Soldiers Memorial Field Course The Soldiers Memorial Field Course is a popular municipal course. It has an exceptional layout that contains four sets of tees for all skill levels, allowing players to enjoy the course at their own pace. Furthermore, this 18-hole championship course offers multiple tee boxes on each hole and can stretch up to 5700 yards of the green. This course attracts players of all ages and skill levels thanks to its friendly staff, well-maintained grounds, and clubhouse facilities. 3. Eastwood Golf Club, Eastwood Course Located about four miles from the center of Rochester, Eastwood Golf Club is a municipal course that offers visitors an 18-hole trail of play. The layout measures around 6600 yards and has a par of 71. Tee times are available by booking in advance, or you can walk onto the course if there's space on any of the tee boxes. In addition, the course is centered around a fantastic clubhouse, which boasts on-site catering. There's also a pro shop, bar and grill, and event space for hosting parties. Please drink responsibly and in moderation while enjoying your time here! 4. Willow Creek Course & Event Facility The Willow Creek Course & Event Facility is an 18-hole course with a large driving range. The course is always in great condition and offers a variety of tee boxes to ensure any type of golfer can find the right fit. The course layout features lush green grass and scenic views of the surrounding landscape. In addition, the event facility also features year-round events, including meetings, weddings, and tournaments. What's more, it's located about five miles from the center of Rochester, so it works well for those who work or live within the city limits - but still want an outdoor recreational activity all year long. The courses above are sure to make for an exceptional golfing experience. They boast amenities including driving ranges, practice greens, and awesome hole layouts with incredible scenery that make them worth visiting. And while you're still in town, visit us at Rochester Ford and we'll provide a fun, car-buying experience. We have a large selection of new Fords along with used vehicles to choose from.

Not sure what to do this coming weekend? Or wondering how to make the most of summer on a tight budget? Well, a picnic is your answer. Load up the kids in the family car and go create some unforgettable memories in one of the awesome picnic spots around Rochester, MN. We have rounded up the 6 best locations to make it easier for you to choose. more 6 Great Picnic Spots in and Around Rochester, MN 1. Essex Park Located on the north side of town, Essex Park is an awesome picnic location. The entire park is covered in lush green grass. This means you can either eat on the grass in the open sun or in the shade of a pavilion. The park also has bathrooms in case you need to freshen up. 2. Quarry Hill Park This is a historical park in a natural area that offers a serene environment perfect for unwinding and romantic picnics. Notable features include a picnic shelter, tennis courts, playground for kids, horseshoes, baseball court, and an open playfield. The park is also one of the venues for seasonal cross-country skiing. 3. The Art Center The art center is located downtown and it can be a great rendezvous for a quick lunch with colleagues, family, or friends during your lunch break. Behind the Art Center is the best spot to set up your picnic because of the river that flows past. If you have enough time, you can also explore the Art Center or pick some movies from the Rochester Library, which is right across the street. 4. Kutzky and Cooke Parks Kutzky and Cook Parks are the perfect destinations for those who fancy eating on riverbanks. Cooke Park is on 722 7th street and it has soccer fields, pickleball courts, shelters, and a baseball diamond. Further down at 213 13th street is the Kutzky Park, which features picnic pavilions, bathrooms, on-site parking, volleyball courts, and basketball courts. 5. Foster Arend Park This is a unique picnic location because the park has a lake that has an awesome beach with a swimming area. In addition to swimming, you can also play sand volleyball or just relax on the sandy beach. Other attractions include the unpaved and paved trails, an open playfield, horseshoes, a playground, and a rentable space. You can also come with your rod for some catch and release action. 6. Soldiers Memorial Field Park This is arguably the best picnic destination in Rochester. There are two playgrounds for the little ones, a pavilion with picnic tables and a pool. If you are looking to burn off some energy, you can do some running on the track. There is also a wood-fired pizza establishment nearby for those who don't fancy carrying packed food for their picnics. A good family car can make it easier for you to take your family on day trips. If you are into fishing, you may want a car that has enough room to carry your gear as well. Visit us at Rochester Ford to see our inventory of new and used cars. We are sure you will find the car of your dreams!