Labor Day weekend is right around the corner, offering one last chance to soak up the best of summer in Rochester, Minnesota. Whether you're a local looking to enjoy the long weekend or visiting Rochester for the holiday, there are plenty of ways to make the most of it. From spending time outdoors and exploring the local farmers market to getting a taste of fall and enjoying a meal on a patio, there's something for everyone. Here are a few ideas to help you make the most of Labor Day weekend in Rochester.
Foster Arend Park | Photo Credit AB-Photography.US
Soak Up the Last Days of Summer
Before summer slips away, get outside and make the most of the long weekend in Rochester. Cool off at Cascade Lake Beach, Foster Arend Beach, or Silver Lake Splash Pad, all open through the holiday and free to enjoy. Looking for a little more adventure? Grab a tube and float the Zumbro River with Rochester River Rides while taking in the scenery along the way.
If you'd rather stay on land, spend the day exploring Rochester's parks and trails. Take a walk through Soldiers Memorial Field Park, hike the trails at Quarry Hill Park, or find a scenic spot to relax with a picnic, play some outdoor games, or simply enjoy one more summer afternoon.
The "Happy Together" Tour
Enjoy Live Entertainment
Add some live music to your Labor Day weekend plans! On Saturday, September 5, The "Happy Together" Tour comes to Mayo Civic Center for an evening filled with the unforgettable hits of the '60s and '70s. Featuring a lineup of legendary artists, the show is a perfect opportunity to sing along to some of your favorite classics and enjoy a night of live entertainment.
From touring acts to local musicians, there are plenty of ways to add live music to your weekend. Many of Rochester's restaurants, bars, and taprooms regularly feature performances from local musicians and bands, making it easy to pair a meal or drink with live entertainment. As you explore the city's dining and nightlife scene, you may even discover a local band that provides the perfect soundtrack to your evening.
Sekapp Orchard
Start Your Fall at a Local Apple Orchard
Labor Day weekend is also a great time to start looking ahead to fall. Whether you are interested in picking your favorite varieties of apples, seeing the scenery or taking a stroll, apple orchards are a great outing to do with family and friends. Check out our full blog here for a collection of four local orchards.
Check ahead with individual orchards for current hours, apple varieties, picking availability, and seasonal activities.
Rochester Farmers Market
Browse Rochester's Farmers Market
Make the most of your Saturday morning with a visit to the Rochester Farmers Market at Graham Park. Open from 7:30 a.m. to noon, rain or shine, the outdoor market runs May through October and brings together local farmers and growers offering fresh, seasonal produce and locally made products.
Labor Day weekend is a great time to explore what's in season, from fresh fruits and vegetables to baked goods, flowers, and other local favorites. Pick up ingredients for a weekend meal, grab a few treats for the road, and meet the farmers and artisans while enjoying the markets lively atmosphere, live music, and seasonal events
Purple Goat
Enjoy a Meal on a Rochester Patio
There's still time to savor summer from a patio in Rochester. Settle in for a leisurely meal, meet up with friends for a drink, or enjoy an evening outdoors as the season begins to shift toward fall. With patios throughout the city offering everything from lively downtown settings to relaxed spaces surrounded by greenery, there's no shortage of ways to dine. Discover more places to dine outdoors with our guide to Rochester's Must-Visit Patios.
For more things to do, places to eat, events, and ways to explore Rochester, visit Experience Rochester's Events Calendar and start planning your Labor Day weekend.