Historic German-American town

About

New Ulm sits at the confluence of the Cottonwood and Minnesota Rivers, about 90 miles southwest of the Twin Cities, and proudly holds the distinction of being named the most German town in America by the 2000 Census. Founded in 1854 by German immigrants from the Chicago Land Society, this city of roughly 14,000 residents has preserved its European heritage in ways that feel genuine rather than touristy.

The Hermann Heights Monument is the town's most iconic landmark - a 102-foot copper statue of Hermann the Cheruscan, a Germanic warrior who defeated Roman legions in 9 AD. The monument stands on a hilltop overlooking the Minnesota River valley, offering commanding views of the surrounding countryside. Nearby, the Glockenspiel performs three times daily with 37 bells and animated figures acting out scenes from New Ulm's history.

Beer lovers shouldn't miss the August Schell Brewing Company, the second-oldest family-owned brewery in America, operating continuously since 1860. Tours take visitors through the historic grounds, gardens, and a deer park before ending with tastings in the tap room. The nearby Schell's Museum of Brewing preserves the history of German brewing traditions in Minnesota.

The Brown County Historical Society Museum houses extensive collections documenting the town's founding, the US-Dakota War of 1862, and generations of German-American life on the prairie. The Wanda Gag House preserves the childhood home of the beloved children's book author and artist.

New Ulm's downtown features German-inspired architecture, family-owned shops, and restaurants serving schnitzel, spaetzle, and other traditional dishes alongside craft beer. Events like Bavarian Blast, Oktoberfest, and Fasching keep the cultural calendar lively year-round. The Minnesota Music Hall of Fame rounds out the cultural offerings, celebrating the state's musical heritage.

For a town its size, New Ulm punches well above its weight in history, culture, and charm. It's the kind of place where you come for the Glockenspiel and stay for the brewery tour.

Accessibility

New Ulm's downtown area is generally navigable with paved sidewalks throughout the main commercial district. Many shops and restaurants along Minnesota Street are at street level or have ramped entrances, though some historic buildings may have steps.

The Hermann Heights Monument sits atop a hill with a paved parking area near the monument. The monument park includes some barrier-free areas and an accessible playground nearby, though the monument tower itself involves stairs. The Glockenspiel is viewable from street level and is fully accessible for spectators.

The August Schell Brewing Company grounds include paved pathways through the gardens, though some areas of the historic brewery tour may involve stairs. Contact them ahead of your visit to discuss specific accessibility needs.

The Brown County Historical Society Museum has made accessibility improvements, though as a historic building, some areas may present challenges for wheelchair users. Accessible parking is available at most attractions.

Public restrooms in the downtown area include accessible facilities. Contact the New Ulm Convention and Visitors Bureau at (507) 233-4300 for current accessibility details at specific venues and to help plan an accessible visit.

More accessible places in Minnesota

• Science Museum of Minnesota (St. Paul)
• Walker Art Center and Minneapolis Sculpture Garden (Minneapolis)
• Minnesota Zoo (Apple Valley)
• Mall of America (Bloomington)
• Minneapolis Institute of Art (Minneapolis)
• Voyageurs National Park (International Falls)