Looking for a summer getaway with great food, live music, shopping, and outdoor recreation? Consider Rochester, Minnesota for your next weekend trip. This 48-hour itinerary takes you through a locally loved, thoughtfully paced weekend that caps off with the popular Riverside Music Series, a free summer concert series in downtown Rochester.

Day 1: Saturday

Family listening to live music at the Rochester Farmers MarketRochester Farmers Market | William Forsman Photography

Morning: Visit the Rochester Farmer’s Market

Start your weekend at the Rochester Farmers Market at Graham Park. Browse dozens of booths offering produce, meats, and baked goods, and meet the local farmers, gardeners, and bakers whose items you'll be enjoying.

Shopper at Kismet ConsignmentKismet

Afternoon: Go on a shopping spree.

Rochester offers a diverse range of shopping options. If you enjoy finding secondhand treasures, check out Kismet, Chappie’s Consignment for Dudes, and Janky Gear, all conveniently located on one block. If you’re up for a little bit of everything, walk through The Galleria at University Square or explore Rochester’s lively Apache Mall.

Forager Brewery Nillerzzz

Photo credit Forager Brewery

Evening: Sample some of Minnesota’s best beers.

Get dinner and drinks at Forager Brewery, home of Minnesota’s top-rated beer, Nillerzzzzz. Then, head to Rochester’s other highly rated breweries: Kinney Creek Brewery, Little Thistle Brewing, LTS Brewing Co. and Thesis Beer Project for a relaxing end to a busy Saturday.

Day 2: Sunday

Five West Brunch

Five West | AB-Photography.US

Morning: Brunch like a local.

Start your day with a leisurely brunch at one of Rochester’s many popular breakfast spots, including Five West, Benedict’s Morning Heroes, or Hollandberry Pannekoeken. There’s no shortage of delicious options, and plenty of patios to soak up the morning sun. Whether you're craving a classic eggs benedict, fluffy pancakes, or a latte, you'll find the perfect way to ease into your day.

Paddle boating on Silver Lake in Rochester, MNPaddle boating on Silver Lake | Photo by TJ Turner

Afternoon: Paddle on Silver Lake.

Rent a kayak, paddleboat or canoe from Silver Lake Boat and Bike Rentals. Spend the afternoon on the water at Silver Lake Park with great views of downtown Rochester! Then, rest up and recharge nearby with sandwiches at Saigon Banh Mi or Old Abe Coffee Co.

Riverside Music Series from the stageRiverside Music Series | Photo courtesy Rochester Public Music

Evening: Jam out at the Riverside Music Series

Sundays from July 13-August 10

Close out your weekend with a free outdoor concert at Mayo Park along the Zumbro River. From folk to funk, each week brings a different vibe, and it’s always relaxed, family-friendly, and full of heart. Grab dinner and drinks from local food trucks for one last taste of Rochester, MN as you close out two fantastic days.

This year’s Riverside Music Series lineup:

July 13: Blind Melon with Amateur

July 20: Caylee Hammack with Genevieve Heyward

July 27: The Wailin’ Jennys with Molly Maher & Her Disbelievers

August 3: Tone Loc with Desdamona & The Orange Goodness

August 10: Hoobastank with John Forrest & The Model Citizens

Whether you come for the food, the music, or the arts, Rochester delivers the perfect weekend vacation. With just 48 hours, you’ll experience everything from exceptional dining to live, outdoor music under the stars. Pack your overnight bag and let Rochester surprise you.

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