New Ulm listed among top 15 U.S. places to visit

Hermann Monument named for watching fall colors

NEW ULM -- The Hermann Monument in New Ulm was listed as a stunning spot to view leaves turning color in the fall of 2022 by an online travel tips and news magazine recently.

New Ulm was ranked fifth among THE 15 Best Places to Road Trip in the U.S. in 2022, according to SIXT.com.

"Leaf peeping is a time-honored tradition for much of the northern United States," read the SIXT story. "New Ulm is one of the best places to go on a road trip in the fall. Stop off at the stunning viewpoints in Le Sueur, St. Peter and Mankato, then head to your final stop, the Hermann Monument in New Ulm for an amazing view."

The 4,000-pound statue, designated by the U.S. Congress in 2000 as a national symbol of German heritage, features a staircase for visitors to climb, offering a panoramic view of New Ulm and the Minnesota River Valley.

The monument is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays in May and September; daily from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day; and on the Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays of Oktoberfest. Admission if $3 per person. Children five and under are fee with a paid adult.

Hermann Heights Park includes playground equipment and picnic facilities including covered gazebos for rent.

The story listed Coudersport, Pa. and Cherry Springs State Park as one of the top places in the country for stargazing.

Lake Powell, Ut and Natural Bridges National Monument, the world's first IDSP (International Dark Sky Park) was listed second. It was noted for dedication to preserving dark sky environments and listed as a great place to see the Milky Way.

Holbrook, Az. was listed third. Following U.S. Route 66 to the Painted Desert, Petrified Forest, Angeles National Forest and Mojave National Preserve from Los Angeles.

Lincoln, Mt. and the Blackfoot Pathways Sculpture Park was listed fourth and described as perfect for an art lovers' road trip. With 14 large-scale sculptures and a rotating guest sculpture, its an hour drive from Missoula and Helena.

Key West, Fl was listed fifth and described as one of the most tropical places on the planet. Lagerheads Beach Bar was listed for an incredible sunset view and fresh fish tacos.

Glenwood Springs, Co, was noted for fishing, rafting, hiking, an snow sports. The Ranch House was listed for steak, elk, buffalo and trout.

Port Arthur, Tx. was listed as a "foodie road trip" with Viet-Cajun at the Cajun Kitchen, barbecue at Killen's, chicken fried steak at Frank's Americana Revival and The Cuban Cafe for sandwiches and Cuban coffee.

Mount Rainier, Wa. was noted for wildflowers in July and August. Paradise and Sunrise were called the best viewing spots.

Goodsprings, Nv. was listed as a creepy, haunted ghost town. Thirty-five miles south of Las Vegas, it was once the richest mining town in the country. An historic saloon and general store remain.

Over stops listed were St. Joseph, Mo. Vicksburg, Ms., Ashville, N.C., Bar Harbor, Me. for farm-to-table food and ocean views; and Monroe, Ut. with a natural hot spring.

For more information, visit sixt.com.