If you’re attending a conference or event at Mayo Civic Center in downtown Rochester, MN, you’re within easy walking distance of many fun things to do and places to go. Mayo Civic Center, Rochester's convention and event center, is connected via climate-controlled skyways and underground pedestrian walkways to an abundance of unique activities and entertainment options, as well as dozens of exceptional restaurants and a vibrant nightlife scene.
Restaurants Near Mayo Civic Center
A wide variety of locally owned, only-in-Rochester restaurants are within blocks of Mayo Civic Center. Here’s a taste of a few restaurants that convention attendees may want to try:
ThaiPop - ThaiPop is a full-service restaurant at the corner of Broadway Avenue and Historic Third Street, serving Thai cuisine and creative Thai inspired cocktails.
Terza Ristorante – Convention attendees and eventgoers always give rave reviews to Terza, which hand-crafts and serves fresh pastas and desserts “with amour” in a stylish, friendly environment.
Bleu Duck Kitchen – You’ll love the combination of “fine dining” and “fun dining” at Bleu Duck Kitchen, which provides innovative American cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.
Bleu Duck Kitchen | photo by TJ Turner
The menu emphasizes locally grown produce and meats and features an exhibition kitchen for you to follow the action as your food is prepared.
Chester’s – A favorite spot for downtown visitors to grab lunch or enjoy Happy Hour, Chester’s offers casual upscale dining and made-from-scratch food. Sit on the patio (seasonally) just steps from the beautiful Peace Plaza Fountain.
Things To Do Near Mayo Civic Center
Consider these entertainment options and activities in the flourishing downtown area near Rochester, MN's convention and event center, the Mayo Civic Center:
The Rochester Art Center is located at the Mayo Civic Center and features contemporary art exhibits from some of the country's most talented artists. During a break in your conference, stroll through a strikingly-designed, spacious gallery that serves as a cultural center for innovation and creativity in southeastern Minnesota.
The Rochester Civic Theatre, also located at the Mayo Civic Center, presents a variety of professional and community theater, music, and dance performances. Attending a production at the Civic Theatre is just the ticket to an entertaining evening after your last meeting of the day!
Sal Terrae Boutique | Experience Rochester
Dozens of unique boutiques and stores are located at street level throughout downtown, at the Galleria, connected to Mayo Civic Center via skyway, and within the underground pedestrian walkway system. You’ll find only-in-Rochester gift shops and clothing boutiques, as well University of Minnesota Rochester apparel at the M Gear Store. (Bonus: no sales tax on clothing in Minnesota!)
For convention attendees interested in health and wellness, the Mayo Clinic Healthy Living Program, located in a state-of-the-art 7-story Healthy Living Center, is open to the public. Enjoy a free 20-minute personal wellness consultation, take a tour of the wellness facility, book an appointment in the Rejuvenate Spa, and more. The Mayo Clinic Healthy Living Program also creates custom group retreats that could be a memorable experience for convention groups or teams traveling to Rochester, MN together.
Explore Downtown Rochester is easy to do on foot from the Mayo Civic Center, with a variety of events and entertainment happening throughout the year. Downtown's Peace Plaza, Rochester Art Center, Historic Chateau Theatre, and other nearby gathering spaces regularly host concerts, performances, art experiences, community events, and special programs. Check the Experience Rochester events calendar to see what's happening during your visit.
Peace Plaza | Experience Rochester
If you only have a few minutes to spare, several walking routes begin at the Mayo Civic Center providing easy access to Rochester’s 85 miles of paved, interconnected biking and hiking trails along the Zumbro River. Take a quick walk during a break in your day and enjoy scenic views of the downtown skyline.
Nightlife Near Mayo Civic Center
Continue enjoying the city of Rochester after your meetings conclude for the day. Here are just a few nightlife hot spots located within a few blocks of the convention center and downtown hotels:
Kathy’s Pub – Treat yourself to a cocktail and a view from the third-floor rooftop patio at Kathy’s Pub. Features live band performances, pool tables, darts and a sports bar atmosphere.
Bitter & Pour – Enjoy a cozy, intimate setting tucked away on Historic 3rd Street. This speakeasy-style cocktail bar serves handcrafted cocktails, wine, craft beer and small plates. For a different atmosphere, head to Bitter & Pour Rooftop, located on the seventh floor of Dunlap Seeger Plaza, for signature cocktails, glass-walled patio seating and downtown skyline views.
Bitter and Pour Roof Top | Experience Rochester
The Stubborn Donkey – Head upstairs to this Latin-inspired cocktail bar and restaurant for creative handcrafted cocktails and flavorful bites. With a cozy, inviting atmosphere, it's a great spot for meeting friends or enjoying a night out downtown.
Pereira’s Wine & Whiskey Lounge – Located on the second floor of The Castle, Pereira’s offers an intimate lounge experience with an extensive selection of wines, whiskeys, and handcrafted cocktails. Relax in the elegant setting, enjoy curated food and drink pairings, or check the calendar for special events and live music.
The Palmetto Room – Located beneath Our Paladar, Palmetto - Off the Record is a rotating series of unique experiences, events, special dinners and guest appearances brought to you by the team at Our Paladar. If you're visiting Rochester, check their website or social media to see what special experiences may be happening during your stay.
Check out more things to do, dining, and nightlife opportunities as you plan your visit to Rochester, Minnesota!