Faribault

Faribault began life as a fur-trading post in 1826. Because of the town’s settlement and commercial prominence before Minnesota’s establishment as a territory, it’s considered one of the state’s most historic cities. Since founder Alexander Faribault’s mother was a Dakotah, he was able to avoid conflict with the native Americans and the community flourished. Relocated to the junction of the Cannon and Straight rivers, by 1880 the small city had become a showplace. From the Art Nouveau/Greek Revival Buckhorn Memorial Library (1929-1930) to the Cathedral of Our Merciful Saviour with its ornate belfry (1862-1869), Faribault boasts an eclectic ...

Faribault began life as a fur-trading post in 1826. Because of the town’s settlement and commercial prominence before Minnesota’s establishment as a territory, it’s considered one of the state’s most historic cities. Since founder Alexander Faribault’s mother was a Dakotah, he was able to avoid conflict with the native Americans and the community flourished. Relocated to the junction of the Cannon and Straight rivers, by 1880 the small city had become a showplace. From the Art Nouveau/Greek Revival Buckhorn Memorial Library (1929-1930) to the Cathedral of Our Merciful Saviour with its ornate belfry (1862-1869), Faribault boasts an eclectic array of architectural gems. It’s also a place of parkland pleasures, with 39 city parks, plus 6.4 miles of paved hiking trails meandering through the historic district and along the riverbanks. Well over 60 miles of additional trails – the Sakatah Singing Hills, Cannon Valley and Riverbend Nature Center systems – add even more hiking and biking options. With a population of about 22,000, the community's special events – Heritage Celebration (June), Rice County Free Fair (July), Tree Frog Music Festival and Faribault Area Airfest/ Balloon Rally (September) combine small town fun with city sophistication.

About the Expert

Connie Emerson is the author of more than a dozen books, including The Cheapskate's Guide to Branson, Missouri and Eyewitness Top Ten Travel Guide – Las Vegas.