The Arts
Owatonna is vibrant with artistic energy. During your visit, you can attend an outdoor concert, explore downtown murals, or experience a live theatre performance.
OWNTOWN MURALS
As you explore the architecture in downtown Owatonna, you’ll encounter several street murals that showcase the community’s history and heritage, painted by local artists. Try to find all five murals: the Little Red School House Mural at Pocket Park, Main Street Mural at Pocket Park, the Owatonna Gateway Mural on the side of Straight River Sports & Fitness, the Fire Hall Mural on historic Firemen’s Hall, and the Princess Owatonna Mural on the side of Owatonna Shoe. Additionally, keep an eye out for five “mini murals” of owls hidden throughout the historic buildings downtown. The newest mural, located near Blast Soft Serve, was created by the Owatonna Human Rights Commission to celebrate and reflect Owatonna’s rich cultural diversity.
LITTLE THEATRE OF OWATONNA
Address: 560A Dunnell Dr, Owatonna | Phone: 507-451-0764
www.littletheatreofowatonna.org
The Little Theatre of Owatonna recently marked fifty years of staging plays and enriching the community with culture and entertainment.
LIVE MUSIC
Bring your lawn chair and enjoy live music at the 11@7 Concert Series in Central Park every Thursday during the summer. Local breweries and bars regularly host live entertainment, so check our calendar of events for the latest dates. Savor award-winning barbecue while listening to live blues bands at the Smokin in Steele BBQ and Blues Festival in June. Experience downtown’s vibrant atmosphere with music from competitive high school marching bands at the Harry Wenger Marching Band Festival. Don’t miss the carolers in Central Park during the Hometown Holiday Weekend.
OWATONNA ARTS CENTER
Address: 435 Garden View Lane | Phone: 507-451-0533
www.oacarts.org
Self-Guided Tours: Tuesday-Sunday 1pm-5pm
Spend an afternoon at the Owatonna Art Center, enjoying the current exhibit and the diverse works by local and regional artists that make up the majority of the OAC’s permanent collection. For over 40 years, the Owatonna Arts Center has been a cultural beacon, inviting community members to explore, experience, and engage in unique and meaningful art experiences. Located on the West Hills Campus, where the Minnesota State Public School for Dependent and Neglected Children operated from 1886 to 1945, the center features beautiful stained glass windows salvaged from a local church. Be sure to visit the Orphanage Museum down the hall to learn more about the rich history of the State School. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.
Extravaganza at the village of yesteryear
Address: 1700 Austin Road | Phone: 507-451-1420
www.schsmn.org
Experience history firsthand in Owatonna at the Steele County Historical Society’s Extravaganza at the Village of Yesteryear. Discover what life was like in Minnesota during the late 19th century as you celebrate 31 years of historical reenactments, demonstrations, hands-on activities, food, music, and family-friendly historical fun!
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