A Hidden Treasure Nestled in the Bluffs

Nestled between bluffs carved over centuries by the Root River and never touched by glaciers, you find the small city of Peterson. Peter Peterson, the town father must have settled here because of the winding river, fertile soil, breathtaking scenery, wildlife, trout streams, and few if any mosquitoes!

While visiting – don’t forget to try the interesting and delicious menu offered at our newest restaurant, The Driftless Trading Post or the famous pies and breakfasts at Burdey’s Café – tour the Peterson State Fish Hatchery, or climb Indian Trail through the Peterson North Woods. At the Driftless Trading Post you can also rent canoes, tubes, or kayaks for a relaxing day on the Root River and even select some lovely meat for your backyard BBQs or at your campsite. Our local talented artist, Turned Write Handcrafted Art, has a showroom and studio right on main street. His shop includes an amazing collection of Singer Sewing Machines of the past – and he can repair nearly any Singer machine that needs help - including the cabinets. Finally, our Peterson Legion is a busy place year-round for locals AND visitors.

If you decide to visit us or even purchase a residence in Peterson, we are a perfect home base. Drive Historic Bluff Country Scenic Byway to easily get to all the Root River Trail Towns. We are close to the arts community of Lanesboro, the bustling city of Rushford, and the International Owl Center of Houston, MN. Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center, offers interesting classes and activities for all ages. Whalan has just opened a new museum; and Harmony gives you an authentic experience with the Amish Community of SE MN MN as well as offering a unique display that explains our karst region. Near Harmony is Niagara Cave and just outside of Preston is Historic Forestville and Mystery Cave. These day trips keep life interesting in the Rushford Peterson Valley. Fountain is the home of the Fillmore County Historical Museum and Karst Brewing, LLC in the heart of karst country.

Please stop at the Peterson Station Museum and Visitor Center to pick up brochures and maps and learn more about this “best kept secrets of Minnesota.”