Exciting Things to Do & Activities in New Ulm, Minnesota
Your Go-To Guide for Fun, Easy New Ulm Activities! If you are looking for a fun, easy Minnesota getaway that doesn’t require endless hours in the car? New Ulm, located just 90 minutes from the Twin Cities, makes an excellent day trip or weekend escape with kids. This charming Southern Minnesota town blends rich German heritage with outdoor adventure and tasty eats. Plus, families will find plenty of activities perfect for both kids and parents. Splash at Flandrau State Park or spot Old World architecture downtown—there’s something for every age and interest in New Ulm.
To help you plan your visit, we’ve also highlighted a fun hotel stay and the best restaurants in New Ulm for families with kids. Whether you visit during summer break, festive Christmastime, or fall’s iconic Oktoberfest, New Ulm delivers BIG family moments in a small-town package. Keep reading to discover our top picks for the best 13+ things to do in New Ulm with kids.
Hidden-Gem New Ulm Activities Locals Love
Flandrau State Park
1300 Summit Ave, New Ulm, MN 56073
Kick off your visit at Flandrau State Park, located just minutes from downtown New Ulm. Widely considered one of the best things to do in town with kids, the park features wide, kid-friendly hiking trails that wind through scenic surroundings. Families with young adventurers often favor the flat, looped Hiking Club Trail. Eight miles of trails await, ensuring there’s a hike for everyone.
Summer visitors can also spend time at the sand-bottom swimming pond (typically open June and July). It is a major hit with kids! On hot summer days, it offers a beachy break without the fuss. Flandrau is lovely year-round, too—think fall colors or winter cross-country skiing.
Don’t skip the nature play area. Here, kids can climb, build, and play using logs and natural materials. It’s just steps from the swimming pond. Of course, history lovers will also appreciate the WPA-era buildings tucked throughout the park. Informational signs provide added context to your visit. No matter how you choose to experience Flandrau State Park, you really can’t go wrong!
If your crew is up for even more outdoor adventures after exploring Flandrau State Park, Minneopa State Park is just 30 minutes from New Ulm. This is where kids can see bison on the park’s famous drive loop!
Explore Downtown New Ulm
Head downtown to stroll walkable streets lined with locally owned shops, colorful murals, and plenty of spots to pause and explore.
Kids will love popping into Domeier’s German Store, where they can check out cuckoo clocks and German-inspired souvenirs (open seasonally). Meanwhile, parents may enjoy browsing boutiques, quilt shops, and the cozy local bookstore, which has a fantastic children’s section. History buffs shouldn’t miss the historic Kiesling House—it offers a peek into New Ulm’s past.
Be sure to time your visit with New Ulm’s famous Glockenspiel. Standing 45 feet tall, this iconic clock features 37 bells and a rotating cast of 12 animated figures (including a brick mason to a polka band!). The clock tower brings the town’s German heritage to life. The musical show runs for several minutes and is always a fun experience with kids.
Hours:
- Noon, 1, 3, 5, and 6 PM daily (Apr 1 – Oct 31)
- Noon, 3, and 5 daily (Nov 1 – Mar 31)
When hunger strikes, Lola – An American Bistro is a great downtown option for families. With shopping, art-filled streets, and one-of-a-kind attractions, downtown is a can’t-miss stop on any New Ulm day trip.
See & Climb the Hermann Monument
10 Monument St, New Ulm, MN 56073
One of the most iconic things to do in New Ulm with kids is to see (and climb!) the Hermann Monument. Towering 102 feet above the city, this impressive statue of Hermann the Cheruscan honors the ancient hero whose army helped free Germany from Roman rule. And, it’s impossible to miss during your visit to New Ulm.
For just $3 per person (children 5 and under are free; cash or check only), families can climb the winding staircase inside the monument from May through October. The reward at the top is well worth the climb! From the top, you’ll enjoy sweeping, panoramic views of downtown New Ulm and the surrounding river valley. It is especially stunning in the fall.
It’s also a fantastic spot for a family photo. A quick heads-up: the stairs get narrow near the top, and the final ascent requires climbing through a small trap door. If that feels like too much, the midway platform still offers incredible views.
Before or after your climb, let the kids burn off energy at the nearby playground in Hermann Heights Park. It shares a parking lot with the monument, making it an easy addition for active kids.
August Schell Brewing Company (Family-Friendly Tours)
1860 Schell’s Rd, New Ulm, MN 56073
A visit to August Schell Brewing Company is a classic New Ulm experience—and yes, it can still be fun with kids. Founded in 1860, Schell’s is a Minnesota landmark and the second-oldest family-owned brewery in the country. The brewery is known for its beautiful grounds and deep German roots.
Brewery tours are offered daily in the summer and on weekends during the fall and winter, operating on a first-come, first-served basis. Tickets cost $10 for ages 13 and up; kids 12 and under get in free (IDs required for tastings). Although the brewing process may not captivate younger children, the beautiful setting makes up for it with gardens to wander, paths along the stream, and resident peacocks sure to delight kids. Guests can also explore the on-site museum and gift shop.
Bonus for kids: Schell’s famously serves 1919 Root Beer, which feels like a special treat while adults enjoy tastings.
New Ulm Activities: German Park & Playground
200 N German St, New Ulm, MN 56073
If you’re looking for fun things to do in New Ulm with active kids, German Park is an easy win. Even better? It’s one of the prettiest spots in town. Located just a short walk from downtown, this park is perfect for letting kids burn off any extra energy during your day trip to New Ulm.
Parents will appreciate the beautifully maintained flower gardens, pergola, and the iconic angel fountain. Meanwhile, kids are likely to make a beeline for the inclusive, castle-themed playground designed like a Bavarian fortress. The newer playground features a rubberized surface, interactive musical instruments, and a gravity rail swing. Before leaving, don’t forget to snap a photo with Herbie the Hedgehog!
German Park is also a great picnic stop (especially if you grabbed ice cream from MN EIS nearby!). In summer, the park hosts free concerts at the amphitheater. Families can spread out on the grassy hillside to enjoy live music. With green space, shade, and plenty to explore, German Park is a must-stop for families visiting New Ulm.
Riverside History and Nature Learning Center
101 S Front St, New Ulm, MN 56073
For one of the best kid-friendly activities in New Ulm, head to the Riverside History and Nature Learning Center (seasonal hours). This low-key stop is perfect for curious kids. Housed in the historic Franklin School building near Riverside Park, the center highlights New Ulm’s deep connection to the river through hands-on exhibits. Exhibits are easy for kids to explore at their own pace.
Inside, you’ll find interactive displays and photos about steamboats, early German settlers, river fishing, and the region’s clamming industry. Outside is the real crowd-pleaser! The pirate ship–themed playground is ideal for imaginative play. It’s an excellent spot for kids to climb and pretend they’re sailing the river.
Admission is always free. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the center is open several days a week with expanded hours. During fall and winter, it’s open on Saturdays.
Brown County Historical Society
2 N Broadway St, New Ulm, MN 56073
History-loving families will enjoy a stop at the Brown County Historical Society Museum, one of New Ulm’s most architecturally striking buildings. Housed in the city’s original post office, this 1910 German Renaissance–style structure is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. And, it’s just as interesting inside as it is from the outside.
The newly renovated museum features three floors of engaging exhibits. On the first floor, Becoming Brown County: The Land and Its People introduces families to the area’s early history. The second floor hosts rotating exhibits and a kid-friendly Explorer’s Corner. The kids’ area features hands-on activities for little ones. The third floor is home to the award-winning Never Shall I Forget exhibit. This exhibit explores the U.S.–Dakota War of 1862.
Admission ranges from $4 to $7 per person. Kids 4 and under are always free. Even if you only pop in for a short visit, this museum adds meaningful context to a family visit to New Ulm.
Keep reading to discover more New Ulm, Minnesota activities!
Wanda Gag House
226 N Washington St, New Ulm, MN 56073
For families with book-loving or creative kids, the Wanda Gág House is one of the most meaningful things to do in New Ulm. This beautifully restored Queen Anne–style home was the childhood residence of Wanda Gág, the beloved author and illustrator of Millions of Cats (a book many parents will recognize from their own childhoods!).
Open on weekends from mid-May through mid-October, the Wanda Gág House Interpretive Center and Museum offers self- and docent-guided tours that bring Wanda’s story to life. Inside, you’ll see original artwork, lithographs, drawings, and books by Wanda, along with work by other talented members of the Gág family.
The house itself is part of the experience, filled with artistic details designed by Wanda’s father, including hand-stenciled walls and a sunny upstairs studio.
Admission is a $5 donation suggestion per person. A small gift shop sells books and creative souvenirs.
New Ulm Activities: Minnesota Music Hall of Fame
27 N Broadway St, New Ulm, MN 56073
Looking for family-friendly activities in New Ulm with a bit of rhythm and a hint of nostalgia? The Minnesota Music Hall of Fame is a unique and unexpected stop for all ages. The museum celebrates musicians who have shaped the state’s sound across every genre imaginable (from polka and bluegrass to rock and pop). Music-loving kids are sure to recognize an artist or two!
Inside, kids can explore colorful displays packed with instruments, stage outfits, photographs, and memorabilia from more than 155 inductees. Big names like Prince, Bob Dylan, Judy Garland, and Whoopee John often spark excited recognition and great conversations across generations. An included audio tour helps bring the stories to life. They also help keep kids engaged as you move through the exhibits.
The museum is open from April through October. Admission is $7 per person (cash only).
Harkin Store
66250 Co Rd 21, New Ulm, MN 56073
Step back in time at the Harkin Store. Part of the Minnesota Historical Society, this is a fascinating stop for families looking to explore New Ulm’s history. This authentic 1870s general store gives a glimpse into daily life over 150 years ago. Farmers and townsfolk would gather here to buy groceries, barter for goods, and swap news along the Minnesota River.
Though the store itself is only open seasonally, the grounds are always open (daily from dawn to dusk). Kids and adults alike will enjoy imagining life in the 19th century as they stroll past the attached home, front porch, and preserved store exterior. Much of the original inventory, like fabrics, chinaware, cooking utensils, and medicines, remains inside, frozen in time.
Grab an Ice Cream Cone at MN Eis
10 N Minnesota St, New Ulm, MN 56073
Wondering where to get ice cream in New Ulm? MN EIS is a must-visit for families (seasonally open). Located downtown, this charming ice cream and candy shop serves super creamy Madison’s Chocolate Shoppe ice cream. They offer a rotating selection of 24 flavors (including vegan options). There’s truly something for every member of the family. MN EIS makes for a tasty stop after exploring many of the top kid-friendly activities in New Ulm.
Kids will love indulgent scoops like the Party Animal or classic Chocolate. You can even munch on fresh edible cookie dough. Or, grab a nostalgic scoop of candy for the road. Stopping here is one of the simplest and most delicious things to do in New Ulm with kids.
Try Some Local German Food
No visit to New Ulm is complete without sampling its rich German culinary heritage. Looking for the best German-inspired restaurants in New Ulm with kids? Here’s where to eat!
The Rathskeller at Turner Hall is Minnesota’s oldest continuously operated bar. It’s been open for over 160 years! And, it’s a delight for families searching for German food in New Ulm. The dining room is adorned with restored 19th-century European murals. Kids love the dedicated kids’ menu, each meal served with a chocolate pretzel with sprinkles (trust us, this will be a big hit!). Adults can savor classic German fare, like schnitzel, brats, or a Reuben. The relaxed vibe and hearty portions make it an ideal spot to refuel after a morning of exploring. Reservations are recommended.
Another favorite is Kaiserhoff New Ulm. This cozy spot is located in a historic 1871 building downtown. Known for its blend of German and American dishes, Kaiserhoff’s menu features sauerkraut balls, schnitzels, and its famous barbecue ribs. With a kids’ menu to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters, it’s a perfect place to come together at the end of a fun day in New Ulm.
Stay at Best Western Plus New Ulm
2101 S Broadway St, New Ulm, MN 56073
For families looking for a place to stay in New Ulm with kids, the Best Western Plus New Ulm is a convenient and comfortable choice. Centrally located, the hotel puts you within easy reach of top attractions like Flandrau State Park, the Hermann Monument, the Glockenspiel, and more. It’s perfect for those planning a family-friendly overnight stay!
The hotel itself has plenty to keep kids entertained, too. Families appreciate the indoor heated pool and whirlpool, as well as a fun game room. In the morning, start your day with a complimentary hot breakfast. With convenient parking and quick access to downtown New Ulm, Best Western Plus offers everything a family needs for a stress-free and memorable stay.
Have Fun Exploring These New Ulm Activities!
From outdoor adventures at Flandrau State Park to climbing the towering Hermann Monument, there’s no shortage of exciting things to do in New Ulm with kids. After a full day of exploring, enjoy a hearty meal at some of the best restaurants in New Ulm with kids, like Kaiserhoff or The Rathskeller. With history, culture, nature, and delicious food all in one charming town, New Ulm offers families a truly memorable day trip or weekend getaway.
Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam and on her website. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.
