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New Ulm, Minnesota Travel Guide

New Ulm was founded by German immigrants (most coming from Chicago) in 1857. Today, a city of nearly 14,000 people, New Ulm still has strong connections to its roots. The architecture of downtown is quaint with its red brick. The main street is lined with shops selling German handicrafts and cafes that serve delicious sauerkraut and sausages.

Some sites to see in New Ulm include the Glockenspiel in Schonlau Park (near downtown), a rare free-standing carillon clock tower. The bells, the largest of which weighs 595 pounds, play musical selections everyday at noon, 3 and 5 p.m. They are accompanied by an animated polka band (February through November) and figurines at the base of the tower that depict New Ulm's history. High above the city in Hermann Heights Park stands "Hermann the German," officially known as the Hermann Monument. This 102-foot tall statue is second only to the Statue of Liberty in size. Views of the city from the base of the statue are spectacular.

The city of New Ulm is also home to a number of festivals. Besides having a great many Christmas festivities (the season kicks off with a parade of lights the day after Thanksgiving), Oktoberfest and Fasching are also big events. Oktoberfest, in early October, features German food, music, and, of course, beer. Fasching is a unique German celebration similar to Mardi Gras. In New Ulm, Fasching is celebrated with German food, music, and a costume ball.

Whether or not you claim German descent, the citizens of New Ulm are sure to make you feel welcome, and the charm of the city may make it difficult to leave.