Plan the Perfect No-Cost Day Trip to Austin, MN

Summertime is right around the corner, which is Minnesotan's favorite time of year to get out and explore. If you want a spot that is close to Rochester to visit and it won't cost you a dime (other than the gas to get there) I've got a trip planned for you!

Just take the 45 minute drive from Rochester over to Austin for the perfect free day trip.

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Plan the Perfect Free Day Trip to Austin, MN

Here's your itinerary:

You'll start the day at the Spam Museum. Admission is free plus you can get free SPAM-ples (Spam samples) while you're there. They're open every day 10 AM - 4 PM.

Next, you'll walk just a couple of blocks north on Main Street to Horace Park. They've got a picnic shelter and tables so you can bring a picnic lunch with. There's also a walking path around the lake called the Prairie Wildflower State Trail.

Finally, if there's a free event going on at the Austin Public Library, that's only a few blocks from Horace Park and right off of the walking path. You'll have to check out the library's calendar to see if any events are going on when you plan to visit.

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Additions to the Perfect Austin, MN Day Trip

If you're ok with spending a little money, there's also the Austin City Pool at Horace Park, which is open Monday through Friday 1 - 4:30 PM, Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday 7 - 8:30 PM, and Saturday and Sunday 1 - 7 PM. Last I saw, passes were $5 per person.

There are also plenty of great restaurants near this part of Austin, too, if you don't want to pack a picnic lunch.