2026 Visitor Guide

Cottage Grove

TWIN CITIES

Tie the Knot Here

Your wedding dreams coming true.

Celebrate your love in

Cottage

Grove

Cottage Grove offers a beautiful and accessible setting for your special day, combining rustic charm with modern convenience. Just minutes from the Twin Cities, the area provides diverse venue options, from historic backdrops to elegant spaces, ensuring a memorable and picturesque celebration for you and your guests.

EXPLORE MORE

WELCOME TO BEAUTIFUL COTTAGE GROVE, MN

We are the Cottage Grove Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB), and we are your personal, local guides dedicated to ensuring you have a memorable experience in our city! Our mission is to promote Cottage Grove as a premier, year-round destination perfect for everyone, whether you are a leisure traveler seeking relaxation, a passionate outdoor enthusiast ready to hit the trails, or a couple dreaming of the perfect spot for a romantic wedding. We work hard every day to highlight the very best of Cottage Grove— from our beautiful venues to our exciting community events.

Cottage Grove Convention & Visitors Bureau

12800 Ravine Parkway South

Cottage Grove, MN 55016

Follow us on social media: @DiscoverCottageGrove #DiscoverCottageGrove

A Message from our CVB Board Chair

As someone who grew up here, I can attest firsthand that Cottage Grove truly embodies our city slogan: “Where Pride and Prosperity Meet!”

We are a unique community that offers the best of both worlds—the friendly, small-town atmosphere of the suburbs, combined with convenient access to the thriving Twin Cities metro area. Whether you’re here to hike the wooded trails, enjoy a round of golf, explore our retail and dining scene, or celebrate a joyous wedding at one of our beautiful venues, you’ll find that Cottage Grove is a place to relax and connect. We hope you take this opportunity to experience the special character that makes our city a wonderful place to visit, work, and play.

Thank you for being our guest. We hope you enjoy your time here, and look forward to welcoming you back again soon!

JUSTIN OLSEN , CHAIR

WELCOME

Explore More Getting Here

THINGS TO DO

Must-See Sights & Top Attractions

First Timer’s Guide to Cottage Grove

Family Activities

Experience the Outdoors

Festivals & Events

Four-Legged Adventures

VENUES & MEETING SPACES

Plan Your Gathering

Wedding Venues

SPORTS & RECREATION Active Together

FOOD & DRINK

Taste of the Grove

LODGING Come Stay A While

ADVERTISE LOCALLY, GROW TODAY

Ready to capture the attention of thousands of local residents, visitors, and travelers across the world? Discover Cottage Grove is now accepting reservations for the 2027 Visitor Guide.

Don’t miss out—secure your feature today! Email Discover Cottage Grove to learn more: info@discovercottagegrove.com www.discovercottagegrove.com

Visitor Roadmap

Add Cottage Grove as a stop on your next road trip!

READY TO PLAN YOUR PERFECT PIT STOP?

COTTAGE GROVE BIKE PARK

Experience the rush on our extensive dirt trails, featuring challenging dirt jumps and a pump track.

RIVER OAKS GOLF COURSE

The City’s premier municipal course offers 18 holes and stunning views of the Mississippi River.

THE HAUNTING EXPERIENCE

Seek a good fright at the annual Halloween attraction, known for its spine-chilling mazes and unsettling live actors.

8:00 AM

RIVER OAKS GOLF COURSE

PM 4:00 PM 6:00 PM

Explore Shepard Farm’s miles of walking trails through restored prairie, woodlands, and wetlands, which provide a key habitat for wildlife. It’s an ideal destination for a peaceful hike, birdwatching, and connecting with nature, all while promoting environmental stewardship.

dodgenaturecenter.org

SPLASH PAD AT HIGHLANDS PARK

Cool off on a warm day at the popular, free splash pad located within the beautiful 65-acre Highlands Park.

FUNZONE ARCADE AT PIZZA RANCH

Combine an all-you-can-eat tasty buffet with a lively atmosphere at Pizza Ranch, which features the exciting FunZone Arcade for familyfriendly gaming and prizes.

A must-see fall destination, Whistling Well Farm is a cherished, family-run apple orchard located in the beautiful St. Croix River Valley with no admission fee. Open seasonally from Labor Day weekend to Halloween, the farm offers an authentic country experience, allowing visitors to pick their own apples and pumpkins.

Don’t miss their on-site animal viewing with goats and chickens, and be sure to stop into their country store for fresh-baked goods, pre-picked apples, and local honey.

ST. CROIX BLUFFS REGIONAL PARK

Experience hiking, camping, and boating along the wild and scenic bluffs and river frontage of the St. Croix River.

AFTON ALPS SKI RESORT

In the scenic St. Croix River Valley, the premier winter destination offers 50 runs, terrain parks, and snow tubing.

AFTON APPLE ORCHARD

This beloved family farm offers seasonal pick-your-own experiences for an assortment of berries and pumpkins. Beyond the bounty of the fields, autumn visitors can also enjoy classic farm fun like hayrides, a huge playground, a petting farm, and a massive 15-acre corn maze.

DISCOVER COTTAGE GROVE’S PARKS AND TRAILS

Cottage Grove is an outdoor playground waiting to be discovered! With nearly 2,000 acres of parkland and an expansive network of multi-use trails, you’ll find endless ways to explore. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful nature escape or an action-packed family outing, we’ve got the perfect spot.

Our signature destination is Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park. This beautiful Washington County park offers wooded hills, a scenic lake, and miles of trails for hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, and fishing. It’s your go-to for experiencing Minnesota’s natural beauty year-round. For families, Woodridge Park is a must-visit. It is home to one of the largest and most unique play areas in the region: the Inclusive

THINGS TO

Playground. This space is designed for children of all abilities, featuring accessible surfacing and engaging sensory equipment. It’s a highlight for families with young kids. If you prefer to explore on two wheels, leave the car behind! Our city features a vast system of paved and natural trails — nearly 100 miles — that connect dozens of neighborhood parks and open spaces, making it easy to stroll, run, or bike anywhere in town. Finally, for the thrill-seekers, the Cottage Grove Bike Park offers pump tracks, dirt jumps, and a 4x track where riders of all skill levels can test their limits and perfect their moves. Grab a map, lace up your shoes, and enjoy the journey.

Cottage Grove is ready to welcome you!

Magical Memories

Woodridge Park is the perfect place for kids to burn off energy.

Home to one of the largest inclusive playgrounds in the state, Woodridge Park features a 23,000-square-foot destination play space open to children of all abilities. The impressive park boasts accessible surfacing, over 80 pieces of equipment, sensory play features, and a large outdoor musical section for everyone to enjoy.

9000 90th St S Cottage Grove, MN 55016

The trails offer prime viewing opportunities for native animals.

EXPERIENCE THE OUTDOORS

OUR BEST HIKES, GREEN SPACES AND SEASONAL FUN

Cottage Grove is the ideal hub for river valley explorers and nature lovers, perfectly positioned for adventure along the St. Croix and Mississippi Rivers. Visitors have quick access to the deep ravines and scenic bluffs of Afton State Park, where they can enjoy 20 miles of hiking trails and quiet wildlife viewing. Just minutes away, St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park offers exceptional riverside camping, hiking, and canoeing opportunities, with nearly 10 miles of trails winding through forest and prairie. Back in the city, you’ll find nearly 100 miles of local trails connecting neighborhood parks, including the popular Cottage Grove Bike Park, perfect for mountain biking or a scenic ride.

Nature Awaits in

Cottage Grove

Did you know getting on the water or snow is easy here? During the summer, you can use the self-serve iPaddlePort at Hazen P. Mooers Park for instant kayak rentals on the Mississippi River backwaters. When winter arrives, affordable snowshoe rentals are available. To learn more, visit cottagegrovemn.gov/parks-recreation.

Scan the QR code to learn about our open spaces.

15-acre corn maze petting farm hayrides large playground yard games special events Fresh apples, raspberries, strawberries, pumpkins and more PLAN YOUR SUMMER OR FALL ADVENTURE.

aftonapple.com 651-436-8385 14421 90th Street South, Hastings, MN 55033

Looking for a unique way to experience the natural beauty of Cottage Grove? Grab a paddle and hit the water! GO KAYAKING ON THE MISSISSIPPI

SNOWSHOES & HIT THE TRAILS Oakwood Park is home to a challenging, premier disc golf course, offering the perfect outdoor challenge. HAVE YOU PLAYED DISC GOLF? Discover the beautiful Cottage Grove area, nestled between the Mississippi and St. Croix Rivers. Explore our 2,600 acres of park land and 100 miles of trails.

Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park offers a dedicated 1.7mile snowshoe loop and ample off-trail exploration.

FESTIVALS

& EVENTS

EXPERIENCE COTTAGE GROVE’S ANNUAL TRADITIONS

FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL

Come hungry for the Cottage Grove Food Truck Festival, a popular annual event that celebrates the end of summer with a massive culinary lineup at Kingston Park. This free festival brings over 30 food trucks offering a global feast, from wood-fired pizza and gyros to Hmong egg rolls. Enjoy the delicious eats alongside live music, a beer garden, and kids’ activities, making it the perfect fall outing for the entire family.

Holiday Train

Catch the CPKC Holiday Train’s largest stop in December for music, magic, and community spirit!

Photo by Ib Tsev Neeg - One Family

SPRING + FALL

HMONG MEMORIAL SPORTS FEST + STREET FAIR

Join us for a weekend of high-energy fun and vibrant cultural celebration at the annual Hmong Memorial Sports Fest + Street Fair. This multi-day event draws teams from across the Midwest to compete in spirited tournaments for sports like flag football, volleyball, and soccer. Beyond the athletic competitions, the Street Fair buzzes with activity, offering a diverse array of food vendors and a marketplace, making it a perfect, action-packed outing for the whole family.

SUMMER

STRAWBERRY FEST

Mark your calendar for our premier summer celebration, the annual Cottage Grove Strawberry Fest. This four-day, family-focused event kicks off summer with free admission, a carnival, and live music. Highlights include a variety of food vendors specializing in strawberry treats, the magnificent Grande Day Parade, a dazzling Saturday night fireworks show, and a fun Strawberry Pie Eating Contest, offering memorable fun for all ages.

FALL

MONSTER BASH PARADE

Embrace the spooky season at the annual Monster Bash Parade, a fun and frightful community tradition held on the Saturday before Halloween. This free event encourages everyone to dress in costume and line up along the route to enjoy a spectacle of creatively decorated Halloween-themed floats. It’s a monstrously good time for all ages, featuring lively marching bands and plenty of opportunities to snag candy tossed by the parade participants.

WINTER

HOMETOWN HOLIDAY

Kick off your holiday season at the Hometown Holiday celebration, held right at Cottage Grove City Hall every year. This eagerly anticipated free event creates a classic, small-town atmosphere. The kids will love meeting Santa and Mrs. Claus, getting a close look at live reindeer, and engaging in fun, festive activities. Enjoy bonfires, great food trucks, and live holiday music, making it the perfect night to create warm family memories.

FOUR-LEGGED ADVENTURES

MAKE EXTRA SPECIAL MEMORIES WITH YOUR FURRY FRIENDS

Bring your dog! Cottage Grove hosts special pet-friendly events throughout the year. Don’t miss the annual spring Dog Day in the Ravine at Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park for trail activities. In the summer, the Cottage Grove Strawberry Fest traditionally features a Pet Show and Doggie Dash. Be sure to check event schedules for current dates.

Tail-Waggin Fun in

Cottage Grove

For year-round adventures, head to the WAG Farms Dog Park, a 14-acre off-leash haven featuring grasslands, wooded areas, a pond, and a separate section for small dogs. Additionally, Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park offers beautiful trails and open space perfect for a relaxing, leashed walk with your companion any time.

PAWSITIVELY PERFECT TRIP

See why Cottage Grove is a great place for your pet!

Ravine Park has plenty of space for your pup to explore the outdoors!

WAG FARMS DOG PARK

This spacious off-leash park features separate, fenced sections for both large and small dogs to play safely. It’s the perfect spot for your pup to socialize and exercise.

(651) 368-8596

wagfarmsdogpark.com

HOUND AROUND RESORT

Hound Around Resort offers doggy daycare, comfortable overnight boarding, and full-service grooming. It also provides safe and fun supervised play areas.

(651) 788-9797

houndaroundresort.com

CHUCK & DON’S PET FOOD & SUPPLIES

Find a wide selection of natural pet food, treats, and supplies for your dog or cat here. They also offer useful services like grooming and self-wash stations.

(651) 458-1943

chuckanddons.com

SPACES DESIGNED FOR CONNECTION AND CELEBRATION

SCAN ME to see a full list of venues in Cottage Grove.

Cottage Grove is the ideal place to host your next gathering, offering a wide array of venues to fit any style or size. For elegant celebrations and large banquets, choose one of our restored historic barns or a sophisticated riverbank event center. For professional meetings and smaller gatherings, utilize inspiring parkland multi-purpose rooms or convenient hotel conference spaces that simplify logistics for attendees. Community functions and casual parties can be hosted in flexible community event halls or numerous rentable park buildings and picnic shelters.

ICE ARENA

8020 80th Street S Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 458-3400 cottagegrovemn.gov

COUNTRY INN & SUITES

8350 E Point Douglas Rd S Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 768-7350 countryinnmn.com

GLACIAL VALLEY PARK

9900 Ravine Parkway S Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 458-3400 cottagegrovemn.gov

HERO CENTER 10125 85th Street S Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 458-2811 herocentermn.org

RAVINE LANDING

9653 Keats Ave S Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 430-4300 washingtoncountymn.gov

VFW POST 8752

9260 E Point Douglas Rd S Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 459-2812 vfw8752.org

Wedding Venues

HOPE GLEN FARM & TREE HOUSE

A historic and elegantly rustic venue, featuring a beautifully restored Civil War-era barn, scenic grounds, and the unique luxury of the Tree House suite.

(612) 202-2886 hopeglenfarm.com

THE MADISON LUXURY BARN VENUE

Experience life’s magical moments against a breathtaking backdrop that combines lush, scenic natural landscapes with magnificent Gothic-style architecture.

(651) 336-4421

themadisonmn.com

RIVER OAKS WEDDING & EVENT CENTER

Overlooking the Mississippi River, this stunning venue offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and sophisticated facilities for an unforgettable experience.

(651) 438-2121

riveroaksmunigolf.com/weddings

SCAN ME to learn more about sports and recreation.

ACTIVE TOGETHER

YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SPORTS AND RECREATION

Our community is a fantastic place to stay active together, offering a perfect mix of nature and excellent community facilities. The Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park is the heart of outdoor activity, with miles of scenic trails ideal for hiking, running, and biking in the summer, and cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in the winter. Beyond the trails, local parks like Hamlet Park provide fields for baseball/softball and public basketball courts. Golfers can enjoy the beautiful River Oaks Golf Course along the Mississippi River. For racket sport enthusiasts, the city offers public tennis and a growing number of pickleball courts. cottagegrovemn.gov/parks-recreation

Cottage Grove offers yearround recreation, anchored by its vibrant community involvement. During warmer months, the nearby Mississippi River is a hub for boating and fishing, while the Cottage Grove Middle School pool provides dedicated opportunities for public swimming. When the temperature drops, the Cottage Grove Ice Arena becomes the place to be, hosting thrilling leagues and public open skating sessions. Check the Park and Recreation Department for current sign-ups and classes to easily enjoy an active and healthy experience.

COTTAGE GROVE ICE ARENA

For year-round frosty fun, visit the Cottage Grove Ice Arena, a state-of-the-art complex featuring three sheets of ice. Visitors can enjoy public skating sessions, lessons, and hockey opportunities. During the off-season, one rink converts to an indoor artificial turf field, ensuring this dynamic facility is a hub for sports and recreation regardless of the weather.

cottagegrovemn.gov/icearena

RIVER OAKS GOLF COURSE

Tee off at River Oaks Municipal Golf Course, a premier 18-hole public course celebrated by Golf Digest for its excellent play and breathtaking overlooks of the Mississippi River Valley. This challenging and scenic course features a Toptracer Range for practice, a welcoming clubhouse with Eagles Bar & Grill, and an Event Center perfect for any gathering.

riveroaksmunigolf.com

PICKLEBALL COURTS

Experience the nation’s fastest-growing sport at Cottage Grove’s top-notch Pickleball Courts. You’ll find free, dedicated courts at both Glacial Valley Park (six courts) and Granada Park (three lighted courts). The City also offers a popular Pickleball Club, leagues, and tournaments, making it easy to jump into a game. Grab a paddle and join the fun today!

cottagegrovemn.gov/pickleball

11099 South Highway 61, Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (651) 438-2121

riveroaksmunigolf.com

Escape to the scenic River Oaks Golf Course! Enjoy a beautifully maintained course, challenging play for all skill levels, and stunning views along the Mississippi River.

SCAN ME to book your tee time at River Oaks Golf Course.

TASTE OF THE GROVE

INDULGE YOUR APPETITE AND DISCOVER NEW FLAVORS

From cozy coffee shops to family-friendly diners and sports bars, Cottage Grove offers an array of dining options to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick, casual bite, seeking authentic global flavors, or planning a relaxing evening out, you’ll find welcoming establishments serving up everything from classic American comfort food to innovative dishes. Prepare to eat well as you explore the culinary side of our community.

READY TO EAT LIKE A LOCAL?

Scan me to read all about our restaurants, unique flavors, and must-try dining spots.

COME STAY A WHILE

YOUR PERFECT HOME AWAY FROM HOME

Cottage Grove offers comfortable lodging for every traveler. Choose the convenient Country Inn & Suites by Radisson for familiar amenities. For a memorable experience, book a magical night in the luxurious Tree House Luxury Stay at Hope Glen Farm. For those seeking an outdoor escape, nearby Afton State Park provides scenic backpack-in camping options on the St. Croix River.

Sweet dreams in

Cottage Grove

For visitors needing more space, privacy, or an extended stay, consider a private vacation rental booked through services like Airbnb or VRBO. These home-like accommodations offer more space, full kitchens, and greater privacy – providing a comfortable base for families visiting the Cottage Grove area.

UNIQUE STAYS

Photo by Kelly Birch Photography

CORN CRIB COTTAGE TREE HOUSE LUXURY STAY

Perched in the majestic arms of a 150-year-old oak tree, this 1,200-square-foot suite offers fairytale surprises and breathtaking views.

(612) 202-2886 hopeglenfarm.com/suites

Stay in a unique, rustic corn crib cottage on a historic farm, complete with a jacuzzi, full kitchen, and a fireplace – steps from park trails.

(612) 202-2886 hopeglenfarm.com/suites

HOTELS

COUNTRY INN & SUITES

Enjoy a comfortable stay with a complimentary hot breakfast, free WiFi, and a refreshing indoor pool and hot tub. Pets are welcome!

CAMPING

Embrace challenging hike-in only tent camping, or you can enjoy a cozier retreat by reserving one of the camper cabins or yurts.

(651) 768-7350 countryinnmn.com (651) 201-6780 dnr.state.mn.us

WAKOTA INN (651) 458-0313 wakotainncottagegrove.com

This well-located inn offers easy access to local businesses and Minneapolis/St. Paul attractions, making it a convenient base for travelers.

This regional park offers excellent camping with a mix of RV sites that have hook-ups and designated tent areas near the St. Croix River. ST. CROIX BLUFFS REGIONAL PARK (651) 430-8240 washingtoncountymn.gov/facilities

Explore the TWIN CITIES METRO AREA

CASCADE BAY WATERPARK 18 miles

COMO PARK ZOO & CONSERVATORY 18 miles

GRAND CASINO ARENA 14 miles

GUTHRIE THEATER 23 miles

MALL OF AMERICA 20 miles

MILL CITY MUSEUM 23 miles

MINNEAPOLIS SCULPTURE GARDEN 24 miles

MINNEHAHA FALLS 18 miles

MINNESOTA CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 14 miles

MINNESOTA ZOO 24 miles

TREASURE ISLAND RESORT & CASINO 24 miles

US BANK STADIUM 22 miles