Cottages in Red Wing

Brick buildings from another century house shops selling everything from handcrafted boots to local pottery in this Mississippi River town. Climb Barn Bluff for views that explain why the National Trust named this a 'distinctive destination.' The Red Wing Shoe Museum displays a boot so enormous it deserves its own zip code. Prairie Island Indian Community maintains cultural traditions along the river's edge. The historic Sheldon Theatre offers performances in a setting that makes modern venues seem soulless by comparison. Falconer Vineyards provides tasteful respite after hiking the bluffs, while Mississippi National Golf Links challenges players with riverside vistas. Visit in autumn when the bluffs explode with color and locals pretend they aren't already dreading winter.