· US

New Ulm

New Ulm, Minnesota, United States

Nestled in the heart of southern Minnesota, New Ulm beckons visitors with its rich history, charming architecture, and vibrant community spirit. Located at the confluence of the Minnesota and Cottonwood Rivers, this pict…

#Small town#German heritage#Historic buildings#Bavarian culture#Minnesota River

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into New Ulm.

Top Hotels in New Ulm

Top Flights to New Ulm

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in New Ulm.

Tours

Explore Hermann Heights Monument

Visit the iconic Hermann Heights Monument, standing 102 feet tall and commemorating the contributions of German immigrants in America.

Shopping

Shop at Domeier's German Store

Experience a taste of Germany with traditional foods, souvenirs, and gifts at Domeier's German Store.

Outdoor

Flandrau State Park Adventure

Enjoy the natural beauty of Flandrau State Park offering hiking trails, a swimming beach, and picnic areas.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in New Ulm.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

The estimated total population of New Ulm, Minnesota, is approximately 13,250.

Languages

German, English

Average weather

New Ulm

Jan

-5°-15°

Feb

-2°-13°

Mar

4°-7°

Apr

13°1°

May

20°7°

Jun

26°13°

Jul

28°16°

Aug

27°15°

Sep

22°10°

Oct

14°3°

Nov

5°-4°

Dec

-3°-12°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on New Ulm.

What people love

New Ulm, located in Minnesota, offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Here are some pros of traveling to New Ulm:

German Heritage: New Ulm has a strong German heritage, which is reflected in its architecture, food, and festivals. Visitors can explore the town's historical sites, such as the Hermann Monument and the Glockenspiel, and enjoy authentic German cuisine at local restaurants.
Scenic Beauty: New Ulm is situated in a picturesque location along the Minnesota River, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing. The town is surrounded by beautiful parks and nature reserves, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
Cultural Events: Throughout the year, New Ulm hosts various cultural events and festivals that showcase its rich heritage. Visitors can attend Oktoberfest celebrations, traditional German music concerts, and art exhibitions, providing a glimpse into the town's vibrant cultural scene.
Friendly Community: New Ulm is known for its friendly and welcoming community, making visitors feel right at home. The town's residents are proud of their heritage and are eager to share their traditions and history with visitors.

Overall, traveling to New Ulm offers a unique cultural experience, stunning natural beauty, and a warm community atmosphere, making it a great destination for those looking to explore a charming Midwestern town.

What to know

New Ulm, Minnesota is a charming city with a rich German heritage and plenty of historical sites to explore. However, like any destination, there are some potential drawbacks to traveling to New Ulm. Here are some cons to consider:

Limited public transportation: New Ulm is a smaller city and does not have an extensive public transportation system. This means that getting around may be more challenging without a car.
Seasonal weather: Minnesota experiences cold winters with snow and ice, which can impact travel plans and activities in New Ulm. If you are not accustomed to cold weather, you may find it uncomfortable to travel during the winter months.
Limited nightlife and entertainment options: While New Ulm has a variety of cultural and historical attractions, it may lack the bustling nightlife and entertainment options found in larger cities. If you are looking for a lively nightlife scene, you may find New Ulm to be more subdued.
Limited dining options: While New Ulm offers a variety of dining choices, the options may be more limited compared to larger cities. If you are a food enthusiast looking for a wide range of culinary experiences, you may find the dining scene in New Ulm to be more limited.
Distance from major cities: New Ulm is located in a more rural area of Minnesota, which means it may be farther away from major cities and attractions. If you prefer easy access to urban amenities and attractions, you may find the location of New Ulm to be less convenient.

Overall, while New Ulm offers a unique and historical travel experience, it may not be the best fit for travelers seeking a bustling city atmosphere or extensive public transportation options. It's important to consider these factors when planning a trip to New Ulm.

New Ulm, Minnesota, is a city with a rich history and cultural heritage. It is located in Brown County in the southern part of Minnesota. Here's a detailed history of New Ulm:

Founding and Early History

New Ulm was founded in 1854 by German immigrants from Chicago and later, members of the German Land Company of Chicago. It was named after the city of Ulm in Germany.
The area was initially inhabited by Dakota Native Americans before the arrival of European settlers.

Dakota War of 1862

A significant event in New Ulm's history is the Dakota War of 1862. During the conflict, New Ulm was attacked twice by Dakota warriors in August 1862.
The town was defended by local settlers, and many buildings were destroyed in the attacks. The residents rebuilt the town after the conflict.

Development and Growth

Following the Dakota War, New Ulm experienced growth and became a center for German-American culture and traditions.
The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century spurred further economic development and population growth.

Cultural Heritage

New Ulm is known for its German heritage, and this is reflected in its architecture, festivals, and cultural institutions.
The city celebrates its heritage with events like Oktoberfest and Bavarian Blast.

Important Landmarks

Hermann Heights Monument: Dedicated in 1897, this monument honors the Germanic chieftain Hermann (also known as Arminius) who defeated Roman legions in the Battle of the Teutoburg Forest in 9 AD. It is a symbol of German-American pride.
Glockenspiel: Built in 1980, this large clock tower is one of the few free-standing carillons in the world. It plays programmed pieces daily.
Turner Hall: This is the oldest Turner Hall in the United States, built in 1873, and serves as a community center for promoting physical fitness and German culture.
Wanda Gág House: The childhood home of the famous author and illustrator Wanda Gág, known for “Millions of Cats,” is now a museum.

Notable Figures

Wanda Gág: An author and illustrator who gained fame for her children's books.
August Schell: Founder of the August Schell Brewing Company, one of the oldest family-owned breweries in the United States, established in 1860 and still in operation today.

Modern Day

Today, New Ulm is a vibrant community that blends its historical roots with modern development. It remains a center for celebrating German-American heritage and culture.

New Ulm's history is marked by its resilience, cultural pride, and dedication to preserving its unique heritage amidst the backdrop of American development.