History of Zumbrota

In 1856 members of the Strafford Western Immigration Company traveled west from Massachusetts to establish a new settlement.  Coming upon the beautiful Zumbro River Valley, they found the location which would become the City of Zumbrota.  The predominately German and Scandinavian settlers began the work of building churches, schools, shops and grain mills.  Our famous covered bridge was originally installed in 1869, with the railroads arriving shortly later in 1870.  The town has continued to grow while still holding on to its proud heritage.

Zumbrota is home to Minnesota’s only remaining covered bridge.  The Covered Bridge makes its home over the Zumbro River and leads to the 64-acre Covered Bridge Park.  Main Street, a symbol of small town heritage, is a thriving and energetic place.   It serves as a social and business center for the growing and thriving community.  The city is now home to over 3,100 residents and about 210 businesses.  Zumbrota is located about 20 miles north of Rochester and 40 miles south of the Twin Cities metropolitan area on the fast growing Highway 52 corridor.

Residents and visitors alike enjoy our vibrant Main Street, with an abundance of niche shops, dining options and entertainment venues. 

Experience history and a variety of recreational activities at the Covered Bridge Park as you take a walk through the beautiful trails in the park.

An extensive history of the Covered Bridge has been compiled in DVD format, click for a YouTube Clip of the Covered Bridge and ordering information.

More information can be found on the Zumbrota Area Historical Society website.