Highway 52 to some easy fun!
Looking for an idea that is special and easy to execute? Look no further than the Road Trip to Rochester Minnesota. Take an easy ride down the iconic Highway 52 through the beautiful rolling farm land between the Twin Cities and Rochester.
Here's how to Eat, Play and Love your way to Rochester. Leave the Cities around 1:00 in the afternoon, turn on some good tunes and hit Highway 52 South to The House of Coates located off exit #46. (Be looking as it can be easy to miss.) Take the exit loop around and over the bridge and then go left onto the frontage road. You've probably passed the cute little roadside spot many times and wondered what's up with The House of Coates? Inside you'll find a newly remodeled rustic Bar & Grill. Order up the Swiss Mushroom Burger (our personal favorite) and a cool beverage – relax and enjoy. Step up to the Pull Tab counter – have a chat with Patty and pull a few tabs. You never know you may get lucky.
When you've had your fill get back on to Highway 52 South and glide into Rochester. Arrive at Double Tree by Hilton located at 150 S. Broadway in the heart of Rochester, give the Valet your car keys and check-in. You will be welcomed into one stunning lobby surrounded by art and a moving wall of color. Settle into your room freshen up and get ready to enjoy an easy evening. Start with a glass of wine or a cocktail from the amazing wine selection at Pescara (happy hour is 3-6 and 9-11) located in the lobby opposite the hotel desk. It's the go-to place for the finest sea food and fish, small plates, patio – all that is delicious. If you prefer fine dining Italian head down the street to Terza Ristorante and enjoy the delectable Italian dishes from Chef Miguel Santana in the Tuscan designed space that will surely capture your palate and heart in one fell swoop.
But wait, there is one more place before you retire to that comfy room. You must go upstairs in the same building as Terza to the roof-top La Vetta Bar Nel Cielo for an amazing 280 degree view of Rochester. The space is gorgeous and perfect for romance or partying with friends.
Get cozy between the sheets back at Doubletree by Hilton – you should be relaxed and ready for bed after the day you just had! In the morning you can order room service and take your time getting up then I suggest going across the street to Chester's Kitchen & Bar for an amazing brunch to enjoy a Mimosa or Bloody's and really good coffee. From there getting home is easy.
Your biggest decision will be on dinner – Pescara or Terza Ristorante? You cannot go wrong with either choice. The wonderful staff at Doubletree by Hilton will be happy to give you directions where you want to go and the nice part is – no car! From the hotel you can easily walk to these Rochester gems.
When you go – let us know how your time was, what was your favorite and did you find something new to share? Send us pictures, tag us on Facebook and we'll find a gift to send you.
BTW-Rochester's Mayo Clinic is an international medical destination so you never know who you may run into knocking around town!