Beyond Campus: What to Do Near Shattuck-St. Mary's in Faribault

Historic Hutch House
Jun 1
6 min read

Turn Your Campus Visit Into a Weekend Worth Remembering

For many families, a visit to Shattuck-St. Mary's begins with a specific purpose.

Maybe you're touring campus. Perhaps you're attending a hockey game, graduation, alumni event, concert, or parent weekend. Whatever brings you to Faribault, it's easy to arrive focused entirely on the schedule ahead.

Stone clock tower and historic church-like building framed by autumn trees under a cloudy blue sky. — Founded in 1858 as a military school, Shattuck later merged with St. Mary’s Hall, an all-girls school.

But one of the best surprises about visiting Shattuck-St. Mary's is discovering the city that surrounds it.

Located less than an hour south of Minneapolis-St. Paul, Faribault offers something special: authentic character. Historic architecture, locally owned restaurants, walkable streets, outdoor recreation, and a slower pace make it easy to turn a campus visit into a memorable getaway.

Whether you're spending a single night or planning a weekend stay, here's how to make the most of your time near Shattuck-St. Mary's.

You'll quickly discover that Faribault offers far more than a campus visit. From historic landmarks and local dining to outdoor adventures and cultural attractions, there's plenty to explore before or after your time on campus. So what to do near Shattuck-St. Mary's?

What to Do Near Shattuck-St. Mary's Beyond Campus

Founded in 1858, Shattuck-St. Mary's is one of the nation's most respected independent boarding schools, known for its academic excellence, rich traditions, and internationally recognized hockey program.

The campus itself is worth exploring.

Aerial view of a stone campus building with a clock tower beside a green field and track, surrounded by colorful autumn trees. — Shattuck-St. Mary's School has quietly built one of the most successful hockey development programs in the world, producing NHL stars, Olympians and professional women’s hockey players over the past three decades.

Historic buildings, beautiful green spaces, and impressive architecture create an atmosphere that feels both timeless and inspiring. Many visitors find themselves lingering longer than expected simply to take in the setting and learn more about the school's history.

If you're visiting for an admissions tour, athletic event, or graduation, be sure to leave time before or after your scheduled activities to explore the surrounding community.

Faribault has a way of rewarding curiosity.

One of the best answers to what to do near Shattuck-St. Mary's is simply exploring Faribault itself. From historic architecture and locally owned restaurants to outdoor recreation and cultural attractions, there's plenty to fill an extra day or two.

Explore Historic Downtown Faribault

Just minutes from campus, downtown Faribault offers one of Southern Minnesota's most walkable and historically significant downtown districts.

Historic downtown street with colorful brick storefronts, parked cars, and a clear blue sky; banners read Faribault. — Fur trader Alexander Faribault established a trading post here in 1826. Today, Faribault features a vibrant, preserved downtown and has more buildings on the National Register for its size than any other city in the state

Faribault is one of Minnesota's designated Main Street communities, recognized for its commitment to preserving and revitalizing its historic downtown. Brick storefronts, local businesses, and beautifully preserved architecture create an experience that feels authentic rather than manufactured.

Spend an afternoon wandering the streets, browsing local shops, and admiring the craftsmanship that has defined the city for generations.

Grab a Bite at Local Favorites

One of the easiest ways to experience a community is through its local restaurants.

Corner brick building with Jannas Market Grill sign, striped awning, and reflective windows under a bright blue sky with clouds. — The historic Security Bank Building, located in downtown Faribault, Minnesota, is widely recognized for the restored 1915 box-style street clock that extends out from its corner over the sidewalk.

For breakfast or lunch, many visitors find themselves returning to Janna's Market Grill. Known for hearty meals, friendly service, and local charm, it's the kind of place that quickly becomes part of the travel experience.

Downtown cafés provide excellent options for coffee, pastries, and a slower start to the day before heading to campus or exploring the city.

Discover Faribault's Craft Beverage Curve (Wait, What?)

One of the most exciting developments in Faribault is the transformation of the historic Peterson Furniture complex into a growing entertainment destination.

Today, the area is home to both 10,000 Drops Craft Distillers and Corks & Pints Tap Room, creating a lively gathering place for visitors and locals alike.

Mason jar of yellow mint drink labeled WIDE MOUTH on a sunny patio with orange shade sails, string lights, and empty tables. — The expansive patio outside the original Peterson Art Furniture building at 28 Fourth Street Northeast/Highway 60. A perfect spot to enjoy a beautiful day in Faribault.

The spacious outdoor patio has quickly become one of the most enjoyable places in town to spend an evening enjoying handcrafted spirits, local beverages, and live music.

Enjoy the Outdoors at River Bend Nature Center

Not every memorable travel experience happens indoors.

Just a short drive from Shattuck-St. Mary's, River Bend Nature Center provides over 700 acres of natural beauty along the Straight River.

Welcome sign for River Bend Nature Center in a grassy meadow, with yellow flowers and tall reeds under a calm sky — River Bend Nature Center is a non-profit day-use nature center first established in the late 1970s. The center features 743 acres of land, 10 miles of multi-use trails, and native plant communities.

Visitors can explore wooded trails, enjoy river views, observe wildlife, and reconnect with nature without venturing far from town.

The peaceful setting makes it especially appealing for families looking to balance a busy campus visit with a slower, more restorative experience.

Discover a Small Town Rich in Minnesota History

Faribault's story began long before it became one of Minnesota's most historic communities. The area was originally home to the Wahpekute band of the Dakota people before trader Alexander Faribault established a trading post here in 1834.

By the 1860s, Faribault had earned the nickname "Athens of the West" for its concentration of schools, churches, and educational institutions, including what became Shattuck-St. Mary's School.

Today, that history remains visible throughout the city. Stroll through one of Minnesota's most impressive historic downtowns, explore landmarks like the renowned Faribault Mill, or discover local history through the Rice County Historical Society and the historic Alexander Faribault House.

Historical marker for The Alexander Faribault House beside a cream-white house with green shutters and porch under a blue sky. — Photo via SmallTownWashington

Faribault is a place where Minnesota history is still alive, walkable, and woven into everyday life.

Take In a Game, a Performance, or a Community Event

Depending on when you visit, your trip may coincide with one of the many events hosted throughout the year.

Crowded bar party with people in plaid shirts under a corrugated metal ceiling, around a large gorilla statue. — Faribault Flannel Formal takes place every year on the First Saturday of March at the Craft Beverage Curve. This is hailed as the most Minnesotan event in Minnesota,

Athletic competitions, concerts, school performances, alumni gatherings, and community festivals bring additional energy to both Shattuck-St. Mary's and Faribault.

Historic brick theater marquee advertises 5/16 Writing Workshop Free on a downtown street under a cloudy sky. — Opened in 1929, the Paramount Theatre brought Moorish-inspired grandeur to downtown Faribault. Today, it lives on as the Paradise Center for the Arts, a beautifully restored hub for arts and culture.

Many families initially arrive for a single event only to discover there is enough happening in the community to justify extending their stay.

A one-night visit can quickly become a weekend getaway.

Why More Families Are Extending Their Stay

For years, many visitors treated Faribault as a quick stop.

Drive in.

Attend the event.

Drive home.

Today, more families are choosing a different approach.

They arrive early. Stay an extra night. Explore downtown. Visit local restaurants. Spend time outdoors. Enjoy the slower pace.

Nighttime county fair packed with crowds, neon rides, Ferris wheel, and booths, including McKinley Maze under a dark blue sky. — Faribault is host to the annual Rice County Fair. This can't-miss summer event typically runs in mid-July and includes agricultural shows, concerts, and grandstand events like rodeos or races.

What begins as a school visit becomes an opportunity to reconnect as a family and experience a community that often exceeds expectations.

That shift mirrors a larger travel trend.

People are increasingly seeking meaningful destinations rather than simply checking items off an itinerary.

Faribault offers exactly that kind of experience.

Where to Stay Near Shattuck-St. Mary's

As the exclusive hotel partner of Shattuck-St. Mary's, Historic Hutch House has become a preferred lodging choice for visiting families, alumni, prospective students, and guests attending campus events.

But for travelers looking for something more memorable than a standard hotel, Historic Hutch House offers a distinctive alternative.

Located just minutes from campus, Historic Hutch House is a beautifully restored Queen Anne Victorian listed on the National Register of Historic Places and recognized as one of Minnesota's most remarkable historic homes.

As the exclusive hotel partner of Shattuck-St. Mary's, Historic Hutch House has become a preferred lodging choice for visiting families, prospective students, alumni, and guests attending campus events.

Guests can choose from three thoughtfully designed suites, each offering a unique experience while combining historic character with modern comforts.

Hutchinson Suite—Experience the charm of a historic Queen Anne Victorian from your own turret retreat, complete with panoramic views and timeless character.
North Star Suite—Inspired by Minnesota's Northwoods, this spacious king suite blends boutique comfort with classic Victorian elegance.
River Bend Suite—Enjoy a private entrance, garden patio, and peaceful surroundings in this secluded ground-floor hideaway.

Whether you're visiting for an admissions tour, athletic event, graduation, or parent weekend, Historic Hutch House provides a peaceful place to relax after a day on campus.

Because some trips deserve more than an ordinary hotel room.

Make the Most of Your Visit

For visitors wondering what to do near Shattuck-St. Mary's, Faribault offers far more than a campus visit. Historic downtown streets, local restaurants, outdoor recreation, and a welcoming community create the kind of experience that turns a quick trip into a memorable getaway.

But it's rarely the only thing they remember.

Between its historic downtown, local restaurants, outdoor recreation, growing entertainment district, and welcoming community, Faribault offers far more than most visitors expect.

So the next time your travels bring you to Shattuck-St. Mary's, consider giving yourself an extra day.

You may discover that the best part of the trip happens after you leave campus.

Book Direct While Exploring What to Do Near Shattuck-St. Mary's

As the exclusive hotel partner of Shattuck-St. Mary's, Historic Hutch House offers a memorable alternative to a standard hotel stay just minutes from campus. Whether you're touring the school, attending a game, celebrating graduation, or visiting family, our boutique suites provide the perfect place to relax and experience Faribault's historic charm.

Book directly for the best rates and availability.

Explore Our Suites