Now that the weather is warming and spring is just around the corner, you likely want to get outside and enjoy the season. Fortunately, you’ll discover plenty of great outdoor attractions around Rochester, Minnesota. Enjoy the beauty of springtime by heading to one of these top destinations.
Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo
Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo offer something for everyone to enjoy. The Zollman Zoo is home to over 30 native Minnesota animals, most of which have injuries that would make it impossible for them to survive in the wild. Some of the popular animals include a wolf, cougar, coyotes, bald eagle, and white-tailed deer. In Oxbow Park, you’ll discover plenty of opportunities for some of your favorite outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and picnicking.
Quarry Hill Nature Center
The Quarry Hill Nature Center offers a variety of activities to learn about the plants and animals that live in the area. You can head out on more than 8 miles of hiking trails that range from paved to rugged. The Quarry Ruin trail has signs that describe the history of the park, and the oak savanna offers scenic views of downtown Rochester. You can also check out one of the two quarries in the park to see what type of fossils you can find.
Silver Lake Park
When the sun is out and the weather is warm, make plans to enjoy all the activities offered at Silver Lake Park. You can bike, rollerblade, jog, or walk on the paths that surround the lake. The park also rents paddleboats and canoes that you can take out on the lake. If you prefer to stay on dry land, find a spot along the shoreline where you can fish for bluegill, white sucker, and black crappie. Kids will have a great time exploring the Children’s Adventure Playground or practicing their moves at the skate park.
Cascade Meadow Wetlands and Environmental Science Center
Situated on 100 acres along Cascade Creek, the Cascade Meadow Wetlands and Environmental Science Center has several trails that teach about nature and sustainability. The wetlands trail system lets you explore the unique habitats of the area for yourself. You can walk through the shady Hardwood Trail, stroll along the open Prairie Trail, and circle the lake on the Lake Trail. You can also head out on the Energy Trail to learn more about the center’s renewable energy systems.
Douglas State Trail
The Douglas State Trail is another excellent place to get outside in the springtime. This 12.5-mile paved, multi-use trail was developed on an abandoned railroad track and crosses some beautiful rural scenery. When you head out on the trail, you’ll travel through a scenic combination of rolling fields, shady forests, and open pastures. The trail starts in northwestern Rochester, travels through the small town of Douglas, and ends at Pine Island.
Whether you want to head out for a hike or spend some time on the water, these top outdoor attractions around Rochester will make it easy for you to enjoy the beauty of springtime in the area.
Image by bdunnette is licensed under CC-BY-SA 2.0
The Art and Culture of Rochester, MN
Rochester, Minnesota, has been promoted as a destination for innovation and creativity. The city’s art facilities and historical cultural locations provide an enriching experience for visitors. Here are some of Rochester’s diverse attractions.
Rochester Art Center
Established in 1946, Rochester Art Center was first opened above the public library. The center has grown in significance and moved into its current, spectacular 36,000 square-foot home in 2004. The original mission of connecting with community groups and citizens to make Rochester a worthy cultural center has never been lost along the way.
Temporary exhibitions of contemporary art showcase the work of local, national, and international artists working with a variety of media. The center offers workshops, summer camps, and the popular Free Family Days at which all family members are encouraged to create their own art.
Plummer House of the Arts
The Plummer House, originally called Quarry Hill, was built in 1924 by Dr. Henry Plummer of the Mayo Clinic. After his death in 1936, the Plummer family continued to live in the house until 1969. Built in the style of a Tudor mansion, the five story, 300-foot-long house has 49 rooms, 10 bathrooms, nine bedrooms, and five fireplaces. The furnishings in the house are all original.
When built, the estate consisted of 65 acres of which 11 acres remain, featuring formal gardens, landscaped grounds, and a bird trail. The house features many innovations that were little known at the time, such as a heated pool, the city’s first gas furnace, garage door openers, and a central vacuum system.
The grounds are open to the public from sunrise to sunset, except during private functions. Tours of the house are available each Wednesday in June, July, and August.
Mayowood Mansion
Located on the outskirts of Rochester is the Mayowood Mansion, built in 1911 by co-founder of the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Charles Mayo. The 38-room house on a 3,000-acre estate was lived in by two generations of the Mayo Family until the 1960s when it was donated to the Olmsted County Historical Society. Ownership was transferred to the Mayo Clinic in 2013.
The house is elegantly furnished with antiques of American, Spanish, German, and French heritage and features an extensive collection of decorative arts. Guided tours of the house are available March through October on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. After the tour, you can wander through the beautiful gardens.
SEMVA Art Gallery
South Eastern Minnesota Visual Artists (SEMVA) was set up in 1991 to support regional artists in improving their craft and marketing their work. The main gallery is located on South Broadway and features the work of more than 65 local artists.
The gallery is open Monday through Saturday and displays paintings, sculpture, pottery, photography, glass, jewelry, and much more. Visitors are able to purchase some of the art on display. Various events are held throughout the year, and classes are available.
These are just a few of the art and culture locations around Rochester, but the city has many more waiting for you to discover.
Image by Michael Hicks is licensed under CC-BY-SA 2.0
Top Features of the 2019 Ford Fusion
Are you searching for a fun car that is as at home in the city as it is on the highway? Meet the 2019 Ford Fusion. This family-friendly sedan is ready and waiting for you.
Regenerative Braking and Brake Coach
Slamming on your brakes is not only a dangerous practice, but it can also damage the car. To help you avoid this bad habit, Ford has introduced regenerative braking and a brake coach in the 2019 Ford Fusion. These systems are designed to help extend the life of your hybrid car and protect you from any potential injuries caused by slamming on the brakes.
The regenerative braking works by sending up to 94 percent of brake power back to the battery. This way the energy goes throughout the car. The brake coach works with this system by guiding you through how much energy the vehicle needs. You can check your braking score every time you stop because the coach screen appears on the dashboard. It gives you a visual reminder of how you are doing and whether or not you need to change your habits.
Ford Co-Pilot 360 Navigation
There are many aspects to the Ford Co-Pilot 360 Suite. One of the most important for drivers is the navigation system. It can easily help you find your next turn or help you around a traffic issue. If you need gas or a rest stop, put in your current location and it displays the closest options for you. It can even suggest places that you may not have thought to check out depending on who is in the car.
Ford Co-Pilot 360 Safety Features
The majority of the Co-Pilot 360 suite focuses on safety features. Drivers can relax knowing their car is keeping them safe. The auto high-beam headlights adjust to the darkness around the car to ensure you have enough light for any situation. Another important feature is the blind spot monitoring system. This system alerts you when something is in your blind spot.
Pairing the blind spot system with the lane keep assist feature helps you avoid accidents. The lane keep assist gently guides the car back into the center of your lane if you drift. It works by making minor corrections in the steering. Another accident-avoidance feature is the Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) feature. The AEB system continuously scans the road in front of you. If something is out of the ordinary, the car applies the brakes for you.
The standard rearview camera helps you back in and out of parking areas. You should always check the area around the car, but this gives you an extra set of eyes to alert you if someone or something is behind you. Cruise control is something a lot of drivers take advantage of daily. Ford steps it up with an adaptive cruise control system that adjusts to the pace of traffic.
If you are ready to explore a 2019 Ford Fusion in person, stop by Rochester Ford today. We will gladly show you the Fusion and answer any questions you have.
Should I Buy a 2019 Ford Focus?
Are you in the market for a new car but cannot decide what you want? Have you considered the 2019 Ford Focus? These small but powerful cars are perfect for city dwellers and people who live in the suburbs. If you are on the fence, check out some of these impressive features!
Driving Dynamics
The Focus has a variety of dynamic systems that help keep it working at peak performance while you are on the road. This suite of features includes the standard torque vectoring control, which is designed to help the front wheels grip and steer better in adverse conditions.
Beyond keeping the wheels straight in lousy weather, the Focus also includes active grille shutters. These are designed to help maximize air flow to the engine. By keeping the engine running cool, it performs at its best whether you are in heavy traffic or enjoying the open road.
One of the driving features that allows drivers to customize their driving experience is the six-speed automatic SelectShift transmission, which works with the road conditions to maximize power. This transmission is paired with electronic power steering to give you the best ride possible.
Driver Assist Technologies
The Focus is a dynamic car that also comes with a load of driver assist technologies. These features are only available in the Titanium trim but make your daily commute a lot easier to handle. The car is equipped with a variety of sensors to help drivers avoid accidents and stay in their lane. Among these features is a blind spot information system with rear traffic alert, which enables you to see if anything is in your blind spot. It also works with the rearview camera to help you back up.
The 20019 Focus is also equipped with the SYNC 3 system that lets you control various features in the car. With the SYNC 3, you can pair your Apple CarPlay or Android Auto device to the car and use it for hands-free conversations. The SYNC 3 also upgrades your entertainment and navigation options to make the most mundane commute go by faster.
Electronic Version Available
Are you liking the idea of the Focus but don’t want a traditional engine? Don’t worry; the Focus has an electronic version available. The electric Focus has zero emissions and requires no gas or oil changes. It runs strictly on electricity. You can plug the car in at home or on the road. It has a 115-mile driving range between charges, making it an excellent vehicle for commuters. The car reaches a maximum speed of 84 mph and can recharge in as little as 30 minutes at a public fast-charge station. Once you get home, it only takes 5.5 hours for the car to charge for your next adventure.
Are you curious about the feel of a Ford Focus in person? Stop by Rochester Ford today. We’ll be glad to let you explore the seven different Focus trims and help you make your next car decision.
4 Best Mexican Restaurants Near Rochester, MN
Are you looking to spice up your next taco night? Gather your friends and family, and head out to dinner. Rochester is home to a variety of Mexican restaurants to suit any palate.
La Poblana
La Poblana is at 909 37th street NW. This spot offers an authentic taste of Mexico seven days a week. Monday through Saturday they are open from 10 a.m. through 9 p.m. On Sunday they are open from 10 a.m. through 8 p.m. One of the menu highlights is their award-winning enchiladas. You can also enjoy their house specialties including a fajita platter and carne asada. If you are looking for a more authentic meal, try their sope platter. It is a thick corn masa shell topped with cheese, meat, beans, lettuce, and avocado.
They offer a weekly coupon special. If you are in the mood for a taste of La Poblana, but can’t leave your current location, look them up. They are now a part of UberEats.
Taco Jed
If you are looking for a laid-back Mexican meal, check out Taco Jed. The restaurant serves up delicious food in a flash Monday through Saturday. Stop by weekdays between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. and on Saturday, they are open from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m. You can take your meal to go or have a seat in Jed’s shed to enjoy your food and listen to live music or watch the game.
Some of the menu highlights include a variety of breakfast tacos served with coffee to start your day off right. They also have nine different tacos for lunch or dinner to keep you full throughout the day. Don’t forget to grab your chips and salsa or guacamole. If you are eating in Jed’s shed, they have a bar that serves beer, wine, and mixed drinks.
Hefe Rojo
Hefe Rojo gives you a chance to have an upscale Mexican meal six days a week. Monday through Thursday they are open from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, you can visit from 11 a.m. to midnight. They offer two happy hours a day. The first is for mid-afternoon fun from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m. The second is for late night visitors from 10 p.m. until close.
Some of the menu highlights include appetizers like spiced yam fries for lunch. You can pair them with a California bowl or a Hefe burrito. They also have a Rojo burger that you can get on a gluten-free bun. For dinner, check out the mix-and-match tacos or chilaquiles. You can even enjoy desserts like a traditional tres leches cake.
El Carambas
El Carambas gives you the chance to experience a Mexican taqueria in Rochester seven days a week. They are a family-owned and -operated business that specializes in a variety of favorites for lunch and dinner. Enjoy combination platters that include tacos or chile verde. You can also enjoy seafood dishes like the seven mares which includes fish, shrimp, oyster, octopus, and crab legs.
As you find a favorite place to eat, invite those you love to join you. Explore a new location every week, and you can enjoy a delicious Mexican meal in a fun environment.
Image by Sarah Stierch is licensed under CC-BY-SA 2.0
7 Sporty Features on the 2019 Mustang
The 2019 Mustang is a seriously impressive car: fast, fun, and as sporty as ever. If the name Mustang alone doesn’t make you want one, check out these seven sporty features that will seal the deal.
Classic Car Features
The 2019 Mustang is loyal to its brand, still showcasing the features that you have grown to love about this fantastic sports car. These include the striking exterior design that you recognize almost immediately, along with that Pony emblem shining brightly on the grille. Customize it by selecting your favorite set of tires from the available 14 different styles.
The Engine Roars
With three engines to choose from you will not lack power with the 2019 Mustang. The EcoBoost and EcoBoost Premium trims come with a 2.3-liter I-4 engine producing 310 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque, while the GT and GT Premium trims increase to a 5.0-liter V-8 engine with 460 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque. Looking for even more power? The Bullitt comes with a 480-horsepower, 5.0-liter V-8 six-speed manual engine to get you where you need to go, fast.
Hello Launch Control
Get a quick start with launch control as it integrates the brakes, traction control, and powertrain control. Real-time information is available on the in-dash LCD screen. Can’t get much sportier than that. It also comes with electronic line-lock which keeps your front brakes locked while the Mustang is in gear to allow the rear tires to warm up.
Cruise in a Convertible
Convertible screams sporty and the Mustang includes an optional cloth convertible top. Quickly open and close it easily from your driver’s seat with the center latch. You can drop the top and let the wind blow through your hair while driving this spectacular car.
Available My Mode
Choose the available 12-inch LCD digital cluster and gain the MyMode system allowing you to set your favorite drive settings, including steering preference and exhaust so they can be set and ready the next time you get in the car.
Available MagneRide Damping System
The Mustang is prepared for anything through the optional MagneRide Damping System ensuring that you can still enjoy a comfortable ride no matter what the road conditions. It responds 1,000 times per second for each damper resulting in a smooth ride. Even without the Damping System, the car still has a smooth ride as a result of its rear suspension and power-assisted steering which help deliver responsive performance.
Sporty Interior Design
Blending the old retro designs with new modern features results in a positively sporty interior for the Mustang. It comes with cloth upholstery or available leather-trimmed seats and lots of leg room for you taller drivers out there. It also comes with a sporty infotainment display and standard 8-inch LCD touchscreen or available 12-inch upgraded screen.
There are so many different features that make the 2019 Mustang stand out. Stop by or call Rochester Ford to schedule a test drive today!
Best Spring Hikes Near Rochester, MN
After plenty of cold weather throughout the United States over the past nine to ten weeks, winter is finally beginning to subside. In its place will sit spring which delivers warmer temperatures, nicer sky conditions, and soul-enlightening fresh air. With weather like this, it makes sense for many of you to enjoy the outdoors. One way you can do so is by embarking on a hike across a designated trail. Luckily, Rochester, Minnesota, is home to plenty of them. Here are four we think you’re going to love.
Quarry Hill Nature Center
Located directly in Rochester, Quarry Hill Nature Center is home to eight different hiking trails, all with various terrains and scenery. Along each path, you’ll find signs with descriptions that give you a glimpse at the history of the park. You’ll also find amazing views such as downtown Rochester, the oak savanna, and the incredible wildlife in the surrounding area. And with so many trails to explore, Quarry Hill Nature Center is a sure crowd-pleaser.
Douglas Trail
If you’re looking to enjoy a nice stroll and not necessarily a hike, Douglas Trail is the perfect option. It’s a 12.5-mile paved trail that’s perfect for families with strollers, bicyclists, and runners. You’ll enjoy rural scenery with a mix of forest, rolling fields, pastures, and more. It stretches from northwestern Rochester to Pine Island and travels through Douglas, hence the name. A special secondary trail allows for horseback riding throughout the year and snowmobiling in the winter. Overall, Douglas Trail is perfect for versatile hikers who like to switch things up every now and then.
Forestville State Park
At Forestville State Park, enjoy the trickling of water flowing down a stream as you take a journey along its walking and hiking trails. Bask in the beauty of Mother Nature as you fill your senses with images of wonder and amazement and the scent of fresh, spring air.
Located in Preston, the park offers a traditional landscape filled with trees, vegetation, and wildlife. You know, everything you come to expect from a placed called “Forestville.” If you aren’t in the mood for hiking, there are various tours you can embark on to discover the rest of the park. But for those in the mood for taking a stroll or hike through nature, this is the perfect place to do so.
Whitewater State Park
At Whitewater State Park, you’ll enjoy a bit of a twist on the traditional hiking trail. Here, there are multiple trails to explore. There’s the Trout Run Creek trail that provides an easy stroll through a local wooded valley; Meadow Trail that’s perfect for hiking hobbyists which navigates you along the middle branch of the Whitewater River; and a combination of a few different paths all ranging in difficulty that take you from the bottomland, along the river, through the bluffs, and a perch overlooking the valley.
Whether you’re you’re a skilled hiker or just a beginner, Whitewater State Park will give you an experience you’ve never had before.
Overall, embarking on any of these hikes will guarantee a wonderful day outside in the warm, spring weather. We hope you enjoy yourself this season.
Image by Ann Larie Valentine is licensed under CC-BY-SA 2.0
What You Need to Know About Leasing in 2019
Leasing a car can seem confusing and daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Understanding what a lease is, knowing the advantages associated with leasing, and obtaining valuable tips before you sign can all make the process easier and smoother. Here are just a few things you should know about leasing in 2019.
What Exactly is a Car Lease?
A lease is driving a car for a fixed period for an agreed upon amount of money. It is a method that allows you to get into a new car without paying for the actual cost of the vehicle. You can drive the car for a specific “term,” usually two to five years, and then you return the car. It allows you to get a brand new car for a low monthly payment.
What Should I Know Before Leasing a Car?
Leasing will show up on your credit report as credit utilization the same as a traditional auto loan, so late or missed payments will negatively affect your credit score.
Unlike a traditional auto loan, however, you can negotiate a car lease. The leases come from the car manufacturer, not a bank. The car salespeople still want you to drive away in a new car, so you hold the upper hand.
You are responsible for any needed repairs on the car during the time that you have it. The good thing is that car leases are available on new cars which do not require much maintenance. Many dealerships will also offer free tire rotation and free or discounted oil changes.
Are There Advantages to a Lease?
Yes, there are many advantages to leasing a car. First, there is no money down which is a huge advantage to many people. Second, the lease shifts depreciation from you, the customer, to the car manufacturer. Third, payments are also usually cheaper on a leased car allowing you to get into a car that you ordinarily might not be able to afford.
Do You Have Any Tips Before I Try to Lease a Car?
You need to understand the language of a car lease. Capitalized cost is just the price of the vehicle. It is not the MSRP which will be the price on the car’s window.
Cap cost reduction is anything outside of the negotiation that will reduce the cost of the vehicle. This can include the value of a trade-in if you have one or lease deals that are currently being offered.
There are several different aspects of a car lease that you can negotiate. Some things that are included in negotiations are the capitalized cost, interest rate, and the buyout price. You also need to know how many miles you are going to drive per year so you can negotiate the annual miles you can drive.
Leasing a car is a great option for many people. If you don’t drive a lot of miles per year, it could be a good option for you. Stop by Rochester Ford today for a test drive in any of the vehicles that we offer; lease options are available!
Best Towing Features on 2019 Ford Trucks
The 2019 Ford Truck lineup provides a progressive set of towing options that reduce trailer sway, give greater control when going up or down inclines, and make connecting the truck and trailer easier. Recognized for their best-in-class payload of up to 3,270 pounds and towing of 13,200 pounds for their F-150 series and providing unbelievable towing efficiency and capability with their F-Series Super Duty, the towing features offered deserve a closer look. Here are just a few of our favorites.
Trailer Sway Control
The AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control (RSC) system allows the Trailer Sway Control to detect and reduce trailer sway while expanding the dynamic stability control capabilities of the vehicle to add an extra layer of control and assurance when towing a trailer.
Super Duty Smart Technology includes added software to track the performance of a vehicle while towing and measure the vehicle’s yaw motion to identify the sway of the trailer and respond by eliminating the condition of the sway.
Tow/Haul Mode
Tow or Haul Mode reduces hunting for gears while improving the power of delivery, especially when towing or hauling a more significant load.
When selecting the 6.7-liter V-8 turbo diesel engine with the Ford Super Duty pickup, you can add the integrated engine-exhaust brake option to provide greater control when going downhill. It also helps with eliminating how often shifting gears is required when traveling uphill on steep grades.
Hill Start Assist
Maintain brake pressure while your vehicle’s engine provides the amount of torque required to continue traveling uphill with Hill Start Assist. Conveniently works when traveling up an incline while in drive or reverse.
Trailer Brake Controller
Experience more effective and smooth trailer braking by ensuring your trailer’s brakes have an output proportional to your truck’s brake pressure thanks to the Trailer Brake Controller adapting the output based on the Anti-lock Brake Systems status.
If your truck’s brakes are approaching lockup status, the ABS module will sense this allowing the Trailer Brake Controller system to adjust strategy based on traction conditions, thus reducing trailer brake lockup risk. It will also alert you both visually and audibly of an accidental trailer disconnect.
Trailer Reverse Guidance
Make maneuvering and backing your trailer up easier thanks to the three cameras providing various views and graphics for steering guidance with the Trailer Reverse Guidance system.
Dynamic Hitch Assist
An enhancement option to the rear-view camera enabling easier trailer hitching thanks to the displays dynamic centerline, assisting the lining up of the truck and the trailer without the need for another person spotting or having to get out of the vehicle.
Ford is providing an advanced lineup of powertrain features with their 2019 Ford Truck lineup. Rochester Ford is proud to be part of such an impressive dynasty. Stop in at our showroom to see the complete 2019 lineup, visit with our friendly sales staff, and schedule a test drive today.
Image by Truck hardware is licensed under CC-BY-SA 2.0
Compact cars are often appealing because of their fuel efficiency and lower cost as compared to larger sedans and sport utility vehicles. Those searching for a compact car may think many of these models lack some of the latest features and technology options found in larger sedans and sport utility vehicles; however, there is definitely one compact car that has a variety of advanced features and options that would make any tech guru take notice – the 2019 Ford Fiesta.
Rear View Camera
Available on the Fiesta is a rear view camera. This feature is not uncommon on minivans and sport utility vehicles, but to find it on a compact car is a bit more unique. The rear view camera enables you to see things not visible by using your mirrors. Being able to see what is out of sight on the display screen can help with parking or help to avoid an accident.
Navigation System/SiriusXM
The available Navigation System on the Ford Fiesta is impressive. Included with this feature is a five-year trial subscription to SiriusXM Traffic and Traffic Link. This system provides voice-guided directions to help prevent you from getting lost in unfamiliar areas. Additionally, with SiriusXM Traffic and Traffic Link, you will get updated traffic alerts and information.
SiriusXM offers more than just traffic information via the satellite radio on your Fiesta. There are over 150 music, news and sports channels available on SiriusXM as well. The Replay feature helps prevent you from missing your favorite song or sporting event.
SYNC 3
Ford brings its voice-activated technology to the 2019 Fiesta. This technology enables you to use voice commands to control and activate different features and connect with your smartphone. The SYNC Applink lets you use voice command to control compatible mobile apps while you are driving.
Ford + Alexa
Ford + Alexa brings the features of Amazon Alexa into your 2019 Ford Fiesta from your home. This feature provides access to Voice Navigation, Traffic Information, and Amazon Prime shopping. Additionally, it can help control your supported Smart Home devices.
FordPass
The FordPass app is another great technology feature that can be found on the Fiesta. By using the FordPass app, there are a variety of things that can be done to help make a multitude of tasks easier throughout the day. This app allows you to lock, unlock, and start your Ford Fiesta remotely. FordPass can also connect you to a FordGuide to assist you with a variety of questions. Furthermore, FordPass enables you to receive information about your Fiesta and updates about when service is needed.
The Fiesta clearly shows that sophisticated technology does not have to be lacking from a compact car. To learn more about all the features and options available on the 2019 Ford Fiesta, stop in at Rochester Ford. Once you get behind the wheel and take a test drive, the Fiesta will be sure to win you over.
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