Rochester Local History

Rochester was first settled in 1854 by George and Henrietta Head who named the settlement after their native Rochester in New York. On August 21 in 1883 the city was devastated by a tornado, which also destroyed the local hospital.

Dr Mayo and the Sisters of St Francis worked together to build a new hospital, which was opened in 1889. The hospital, named St Mary's, is a part of the world famous Mayo Medical Center, which also includes the Mayo Clinic.

Rochester Attractions

Rochester Shopping

Rochester has many malls including the Apache Mal, which is the most impressive of the lot. There are also many antique dealers dotted around town, where you may lose yourself for hours browsing through the collections.

Rochester Parks & Gardens

Historic Maywood Mansion Gardens These gardens are open to the public from May to October and are the most beautiful gardens in town. 1195 W. Circle Drive SW.

Rochester Restaurants and Bars

Rochester Restaurants

Roscoes Root Beer & Ribs This restaurant, owned by Roscoe and his wife Barbara, routinely wins prizes for the superb quality of the ribs they serve here. 603 4th Street SE.

Canadian Honker Serving food that is homemade and always, fresh this popular restaurant specialises in its seafood. Live entertainment on weekends. 1203 2nd Street SW.

Rochester Bars & Clubs

Whistle Binkies Old World Pub Probably the best bar in town with over 140 varieties of local and international beer. The food is traditional pub fare and there is live music several times a week. Open till late. 3120 Wellner Dr NE.

Fiesta Cafe Bar You can get some excellent Mexican food here if you want to eat. Otherwise the Fiesta Margaritas would be a reason to go on their own. 1645 N Broadway.