How to Spend 1 Amazing Day in New Ulm With Kids

This post, featuring a New Ulm day trip with kids, may contain affiliate links. For more, please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy.

Just 90 minutes from the Twin Cities, New Ulm is an excellent day trip with kids in any season (though May – October and Christmastime tend to be the best times to visit). This charming, German-inspired town has something for everyone, from hearty schnitzel meals to beautiful state parks. With its quaint downtown, lush green spaces, and rich history, New Ulm is packed with family-friendly stops that will make the trip unforgettable. Whether you’re wandering through Flandrau State Park or taking in the Old World architecture, this is one day trip you and your kids won’t forget! Keep reading to discover how to spend the day in New Ulm with kids based on our own family’s recent visit.

Where to Stay in New Ulm with Kids

Planning a weekend getaway to New Ulm with kids instead of just driving down for the day? Here’s where to stay in New Ulm for families:

• Best Western Plus New Ulm (has a pool)
• Best Western Plus Saint Peter in Saint Peter (has a pool) – about 30-40 minutes from downtown New Ulm (we stayed here and loved it!)
• Hilton Garden Inn Mankato Downtown in Mankato (has a pool) – about 30-40 minutes from downtown New Ulm
• Check Vrbo for kid-friendly listings near New Ulm

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Start Your Day in New Ulm with Kids at Flandrau State Park

Kick off your New Ulm day trip with kids at Flandrau State Park. Here, you can all stretch your legs after the car ride down and explore a bit. The park is just minutes from downtown.

This 1,000-acre park offers something for everyone. Year-round, you can enjoy the scenic hiking trails that wind through grasslands, marshes, and woodlands. The Hiking Club Trail is an easy loop with wide, packed dirt/grassy paths, perfect for kids. Then, in the summer, cool off in the sand-bottomed pool (usually open June + July).

Don’t miss the fantastic nature play area with plenty of places to climb, build, and create with logs. Throughout the playscape, kids and adults alike will delight in using their imaginations and enjoying free play in nature. Finally, the park’s rich history adds a layer of intrigue, too—be sure to check out the WPA-era buildings. Indeed, it’s the ideal spot to start your New Ulm adventure!

Lunch at The Rathskeller at Turner Hall

After your hike, tummies are bound to be hungry! For lunch, head to The Rathskeller at Turner Hall. This is Minnesota’s oldest continuously operated bar, open for over 160 years! Turner Hall’s long history in New Ulm is woven into the exceptional dining experience, too, with beautiful murals of European landscapes surrounding the space. An Italian artist originally painted the lush scenes in 1873 (but those were painted over during WWI to prove loyalty to America). The original paintings were restored in 1999 and can still be enjoyed today!

As one of the best restaurants in New Ulm with kids, kids will adore their kids’ menu options, which all come with a chocolate pretzel with sprinkles (a delight for my own daughter!). Meanwhile, adults can enjoy a classic Reuben (my recommendation! It’s the best one I’ve ever had.) or savor other German favorites (like brats and schnitzel). Everyone will appreciate the relaxed vibe as you refuel from your morning drive and hike.

Note: They take reservations, so you can snag a table beforehand if you’re worried.

Find Hermann the German + See the Views from the Top

The towering Hermann the German monument is a MUST-SEE in New Ulm with kids. At 102 feet tall, this statue honors the ancient hero who helped free Germany from Roman rule. For just $3 per person (cash or check only), you can climb the winding staircase to the top for unbeatable views of the town and the surrounding valley—especially during fall. It’s a great spot for a family photo during your New Ulm day trip with kids. 

If you decide to climb, please note that the stairs are narrow at the top. People of size or those afraid of heights may have trouble completing the final assent (you must climb a short distance through a trap door to reach the very top). It’s still worth doing, however, as there is a large platform halfway up that still provides incredible views of downtown New Ulm!

Afterward, take the kids will love the nearby playground, which is perfect for burning off some energy after the climb. It is undoubtedly one of the best things for families to do in New Ulm.

Note: Climbing the tower is only available from May to October. 

Explore Downtown New Ulm

Now that you’ve seen downtown from the sky, it’s time to hit the streets. Take some time to explore downtown New Ulm, where charming boutiques and specialty shops line the streets. Peek into the adorable local bookstore or discover unique German souvenirs like cuckoo clocks and beer steins. The downtown area is full of character, with beautiful murals adding an artistic touch to your stroll. 

While most shops close on Sundays, it’s worth planning ahead to enjoy the variety of stores offering everything from clothing to quilt supplies. Whether you’re browsing for gifts or just soaking in the vibe, browsing downtown New Ulm is one of the best things to do on a day trip to the area.

Here are a few downtown shops I recommend popping into:

• Lykke Books: A fantastic independent bookstore with a great kids’ section.
• Inspired: featuring home goods, seasonal decor, fun kitchen items, and more.
• The Christmas Haus: Just what it sounds like!
• Bookshelves & Coffeecups: Used bookstore.
• New Ulm’s Own: Gifts and things.
• Nadel Kunst: Yarn store.
• Thimble Box: Fabric store.
• Domeier’s German Store: A classic Old World store filled with German favorites. Technically, it is adjacent to downtown, but it is worth a stop!

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Hear New Ulm’s Glockenspiel Chime

Don’t miss the chance to listen to New Ulm’s famous Glockenspiel chime during your day trip with kids! Standing 45 feet tall, this impressive clock features 37 bells that ring out. Meanwhile, 12 animated characters from the town’s history rotate in a delightful show. From a brick mason to a polka band, these figurines bring New Ulm’s past to life. 

The Glockenspiel plays music for quite a while (maybe 10 minutes or so, so it’s worth experiencing!). In our experience, it’s a fun, unique attraction for the whole family, and the kids will love seeing the characters in action!

Hours: 

• Noon, 1, 3, 5, and 6 PM daily (Apr 1 – Oct 31)
• Noon, 3, and 5 daily (Nov 1 – Mar 31) – From Thanksgiving to early January, the three-piece polka band figurines beneath one of the clock faces are swapped out for a nativity scene.

Grab an Afternoon Treat from MN EIS

For an afternoon pick-me-up while you explore downtown New Ulm, stop by MN EIS. This charming ice cream and candy shop has a fun German vibe and serves up some of the creamiest ice cream you’ll ever taste (they feature Madison’s Chocolate Shoppe ice cream.). 

One of the best things to do in New Ulm with kids, they offer 24 flavors on rotation, including vegan options. There is truly something for everyone in your family. My daughter LOVED their Party Animal scoop.

If ice cream isn’t enough, try their fresh, edible cookie dough or grab a bag of nostalgic scoop-bin candy for the road. It’s the perfect way to treat the kids (and yourself) after a day of exploring the town!

Stroll Around + Play at German Park

Take a break and head to German Park. It is both one of the best things to do in New Ulm with kids and one of the prettiest spots in town! Its beautiful flower gardens, newly renovated amphitheater, and stunning angel fountain are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic during your New Ulm day trip with kids. 

The kids will also love the inclusive playground, designed like a Bavarian castle. It even features interactive musical instruments and a gravity rail swing for extra fun. My daughter adored zooming around on the swing. Built within the last few years, the playground has a rubberized surface, making it ideal for little ones to burn off some energy. Don’t forget to snap a picture with Herbie the Hedgehog before you go!

If you didn’t eat your ice cream at MN EIS, this is a great spot to take it!

Tour Schell’s Brewery

Take a tour of Schell’s Brewery, a Minnesota landmark since 1860 and the second oldest family-owned brewery in Minnesota. Here, you’ll experience stunning architecture and a legacy of crafting German-style beers. 

Tours are available daily during the summer, and every Saturday and Sunday during the fall and winter. The best part? Kids 12 and under are free! As you explore the brewery, stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens, learn about Schell’s unique history in the museum, and browse the Gift Shop for souvenirs and local treats.

Unfortunately, we missed this stop on our recent day trip (another reason for us to return to New Ulm!). We arrived on one of the only days it is closed during the fall (the Sunday following Oktoberfest). Instead, we did the alternative activity listed next (though I would have preferred to go to the brewery, given the choice. And, left Minneopa State Park for another day.). 

Alternative Afternoon Activity: Minneopa State Park 

While you could spend the whole day in Minneopa State Park, the bison driving range is a beautiful addition to the afternoon of any New Ulm day trip with kids. Less than 30 minutes away, this local gem boasts scenic hiking trails, stunning waterfalls, and a captivating bison herd roaming over 325 acres. 

Today, the bison range is what you’re there for! Keep an eye out for these majestic creatures—it’s a thrill for kids to see them in their natural habitat. However, they may be tricky to spot, so keep a close watch along the drive. Once you’ve spotted the bison, head to the historic Seppmann Mill to learn about the local history. 

If you have time, add this hike too! Park near the ranger station and set off on a kid-friendly trail to the park’s double waterfall. This breathtaking sight lives up to its Dakota name, meaning “water falling twice”.

Explore this Locker for Some of Our Hiking Favorites for the Whole Family

End Your Day in New Ulm with Kids with Dinner at Kaiserhoff 

End your day in New Ulm with a delightful dinner at Kaiserhoff. This delicious restaurant resides in a historic downtown New Ulm building, constructed in 1871. Kaiserhoff is renowned for its “Famous Barbecue Ribs” and offers a menu that beautifully blends German and American flavors. Plus, the welcoming atmosphere and cozy surroundings make it a perfect spot for families. 

While we didn’t try the ribs during our visit, we do think you should try the sauerkraut balls—they promise to be a crowd favorite! After a round or two of appetizers, get one of the schnitzels to round out your German-inspired day trip to New Ulm! Finally, with a dedicated kids’ menu, even the pickiest eaters will find something they love. 

Reservations are recommended to ensure a stress-free dining experience, especially on busy evenings. After a fun-filled day exploring New Ulm, Kaiserhoff is the ideal place to relax and enjoy a hearty meal together! Pro tip: If you arrive by 5:00 pm, you will likely be home to the Twin Cities by 7:30 or 8:00 pm.

Alternatively, if you’re not up for another German-inspired meal, Lola – An American Bistro is another one of the best restaurants in New Ulm with kids. They have a dedicated kids’ menu, too.

More Things to Do in + near New Ulm with Kids

If you are planning a weekend getaway in New Ulm or want to make swaps to this itinerary, you may be looking for a few more things to do nearby. Consider adding one of the following fun things to do with kids in or near New Ulm. Just be sure to check the hours, as many things are not open Sunday – Tuesday, or may be closed seasonall.

• Brown County Historical Society: Local history museum and archives. 
• Minnesota Music Hall of Fame: Museum featuring memorabilia of individual musicians and musical groups from Minnesota (that have been inducted into the museum). Open Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from April 1st to October 31st (or by appointment in the winter). Cash or check only.
• Wanda Gag House: Historic New Ulm home and the childhood home to Minnesota author Wanda Gag (famous for authoring the children’s book “Millions of Cats”).
• Kiesling House: Located downtown and one of three downtown buildings to survive the U.S. – Dakota War. Tours are available by appointment during the summer, but you can see the home/grounds and information plaques at any time.
• Domeier’s German Store: A classic Old World store filled with German food items, souvenirs, and more.
• Harkin Store: This general store seems to have been frozen in time. Depending on the season, you can explore the grounds and shop at the store. Outside of New Ulm, but worth a stop! 
• John Lind House: John Lind was a lawyer, congressman, and Minnesota’s 14th governor. It is open all year round by appointment only.

Have Fun in New Ulm with Kids!

If you’ve been wondering how to spend the day in New Ulm with kids, I hope this day trip itinerary helps you plan your own fantastic family outing! We loved this charming town, filled with exceptional German food, inviting locals, and beautiful outdoor trails. And, we hope that you do too! From some of the best things to do in New Ulm for families with kids to delicious places to eat, I know you’ve found several things to add to your own day trip itinerary. Enjoy exploring New Ulm with your kids!

Unless otherwise noted, all images in this article were taken by and belong to the blog’s author, Antonia Grant. This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy for more information.