Exploring New Ulm: America’s Little Germany
New Ulm, Minnesota, often referred to as America’s Little Germany, is a town steeped in rich German heritage, with around 65% of its 14,000 residents tracing their roots back to Germany.
This episode, written by GoNOMAD writer Sarah Arkey, dives into the vibrant culture and history of New Ulm, where you can savor local delicacies like bratwurst and experience the lively polka music that fills the air.
We explore how the town celebrates its heritage through annual events such as Oktoberfest and Bock Fest, which attract visitors from around the region. In addition to its culinary offerings, New Ulm boasts historical landmarks, including a unique glockenspiel that plays music throughout the day. Join us as we uncover the charm and community spirit that make New Ulm a distinctive destination year-round.
Transcript
Today on Go Nomad, we're heading to a place that's got bratwurst, polka and a whole lot of history.
Speaker A:Welcome to New Ulm, Minnesota, America's Little Germany.
Speaker A:Sarah Arxy shared the story about this small Minnesota town with us.
Speaker A:Settled over 150 years ago by German Americans, New Ulm is named after the city of Ulm in Germany.
Speaker A:It's the main hub of Brown county and holds the distinction of having the highest percentage of German heritage in the whole United states.
Speaker A:A whopping 65%.
Speaker A:And trust us, they're proud of it in New Ulm.
Speaker A:Walking through New Ulm feels like stepping into a time capsule.
Speaker A:Historical plaques honor early settlers and you can easily spend an afternoon on a self guided tour discovering little Easter eggs of local history.
Speaker A:On nearly every block at the heart of town, you'll find a 45 foot tall glockenspiel, a musical clock tower that plays tunes and features rotating figures three times a day.
Speaker A:It's whimsical, it's charming, and it's just one of many nods to the city's German roots.
Speaker A:I saw the same thing in the center square of Munich years ago.
Speaker A:When it's time to eat, head for Kaiserhof, a local favorite that's been serving up German cuisine for nearly a century.
Speaker A:Their sauerkraut balls are legendary and the atmosphere is Gemutlickskeit.
Speaker A:That's the German word for cozy, friendly and full of good cheer.
Speaker A:Schell's brewery is the second oldest family owned brewery in the US and the largest in Minnesota.
Speaker A:Founded in:Speaker A:Take a tour, sip a lager and stroll through their beautiful gardens.
Speaker A:And if you're lucky enough to visit during Oktoberfest, well, you're in for a treat.
Speaker A:Ulm's oktoberfest started in:Speaker A:erfests five times since just:Speaker A:There's live music, food trucks, German and international cuisine, and yes, $2.50 beer shells.
Speaker A:But don't worry, it's family friendly too.
Speaker A:There's a children's play area and the whole event feels like a community celebration.
Speaker A:If you're visiting in winter, check out Bockfest, a cold weather version of Oktoberfest with live German music, a scavenger hunt and plenty of beer.
Speaker A:It's so popular that hotel rooms sell out fast.
Speaker A:That's where the Minnesota beer bus comes in, shuttling folks from in between New Ulm and nearby Mankato to keep everyone safe, alive and dui free.
Speaker A:Music lovers, don't miss the Minnesota Music hall of Fame.
Speaker A:Located right in New Ulm, it honors legends like Prince John Denver, Bob Dylan and Judy Garland.
Speaker A:You might wonder why it's not in Minneapolis, but the answer is simple.
Speaker A:New Ulm loves music, especially German folk and polka.
Speaker A:, has been broadcasting since:Speaker A:Every year the hall of Fame hosts an open invitation dinner and a free showcase.
Speaker A:been waiting for pickup since:Speaker A:For outdoor enthusiasts, Flandround national park is just outside of town.
Speaker A:It offers 1,000 acres of land, a sand bottom swimming pond and 8 miles of hiking trails.
Speaker A:Or take an urban hike up Center Street Hill to see the Herman the German Monument and get a bird's eye view of the city.
Speaker A:Feeling adventurous?
Speaker A:Head to Minneapa State park and see twin waterfalls and a herd of American bison.
Speaker A:Or Visit the Jeffers petroglyphs 5,000 rock carvings, some dating back 7,000 years.
Speaker A:It's possibly the oldest continuously used sacred site in the whole world.
Speaker A:And if you're hungry for a souvenir, stop by Schmidt's Meat Market in Nicollet.
Speaker A:Their Minnesota style sausage with wild rice, blueberries, honey and maple syrup is a flavor you'll never forget.
Speaker A:Onlyinyourstate.com recently called New Ulm one of the most unique towns in America.
Speaker A:And they're right.
Speaker A:Whether you're here for a festival or a hike or just a good meal, New Ulm has something to offer year round.