
Barleyberry Boutique
Cute, cozy and hand-picked. Barleyberry is full of curated pieces that fit real life, and it's opening in its new home at 505 N Cedar Ave this fall.






My favorite places to eat, shop and play in my hometown, plus what's coming up and everything you need to know if you're new to town.
Local shops worth a stop.


Cute, cozy and hand-picked. Barleyberry is full of curated pieces that fit real life, and it's opening in its new home at 505 N Cedar Ave this fall.







A treasure trove of handmade goods from local makers, all under one roof at the Rose Street Center. My favorite stop for one-of-a-kind gifts, and you'll find something new every time you go.


A nonprofit shop that gives secondhand art and craft supplies a second life, also at the Rose Street Center. Bring the kids to a Sunday CrafterNoon, sign them up for Kids Art Club, or book a DIY birthday party. The Owatonna Makerspace, with shared tools and mentorship for bringing your ideas to life, is coming soon.
My go-to spots, from morning coffee to date night.

Warm, relaxed and made for date night. Pick a glass from their lovely wine list and share a few small plates.



My go-to for bagels and breakfast sandwiches. This family-owned spot is always buzzing with familiar faces, and the staff greets you like a regular, even on your first visit.
Map and directionsWalking in feels like stepping into the cozy cafe from a romantic comedy. Order the waffles, then stay for a second cup of coffee, because it's even better.
Map and directionsA great tap list, food that never disappoints and some of the fastest service in town. Perfect for a lunch break or a laid-back dinner.
Map and directionsEverything here is made from scratch, and you can taste it. The chilaquiles and huevos rancheros are my favorites, and don't leave without grabbing a fresh pastry.
Map and directionsMy pick for a special night out. Think beautifully done steaks, creative specials, a fantastic martini and a bourbon and wine list worth exploring.
Map and directionsAs a self-proclaimed sushi fanatic, I don't say this lightly: this is some of the best sushi I've ever had, anywhere.
Map and directionsGreat beer, even better people. There's something happening most nights, from live music to trivia, so it's an easy place to meet friends or make new ones.
Map and directionsHands down the best ice cream in town, served by the sweetest staff. And yes, you have to try the giant ice cream cone. Open spring through fall.
Map and directionsThe best chocolate and toffee I've ever had, and the homemade caramel is a must. Their gift boxes are my secret weapon for easy, crowd-pleasing presents.
Map and directionsParks, trails and family fun around town.


Bowling, laser tag and an arcade, plus food that's genuinely good. Our answer to every rainy day and every 'I'm bored.'
Our favorite way to beat the summer heat. It's an affordable, all-day adventure the whole family will love.
Map and directionsIndoor public skating, rain or shine (or snow). Open skate sessions run most weeks from fall through March, and the holiday-break sessions are perfect for burning off some energy. Just $5 to skate, plus $5 if you need rental skates. Watch for the evening Ice Jam skates, too.
Open skate scheduleMap and directionsFor skating outdoors, head to the Warsinski ice rinks at Morehouse Park. The Warsinski Chalet doubles as a warming house, so you can thaw out between laps. It's open weekday afternoons and evenings, plus all day on weekends and school breaks, once the ice is ready.
Rink hours and infoMap and directionsBeautiful walking paths, a disc golf course and the Straight River winding right through it. It's as picture-perfect as it gets.
Map and directionsOne of my favorite places for a peaceful walk. It's just one of many, too: Owatonna has more than 700 acres of parkland across 28 parks, plus 175 miles of trails.
Map and directionsLocal businesses I'd recommend to a friend.
Pure DetailingThey tinted the windows on both of our vehicles and have detailed both cars ever since they came to Owatonna. By the time they're done, it looks like my car was cleaned with a Q-tip.These are personal recommendations. No business paid to be listed.
With a busy historic downtown, 28 parks and something happening nearly every weekend, Owatonna is an easy place to call home. If you're thinking about buying a home here, my guide to buying a home in southern Minnesota walks through each step, plus first-time buyer resources like USDA loans, Minnesota Housing programs and new construction.
Read the homebuying guideA few things to set up in your first weeks in town.
Owatonna Public Utilities provides electric, water and natural gas inside city limits. Sewer service comes from the City of Owatonna.
Haulers serving Owatonna include Skjeveland Enterprises, Stewart Sanitation and Waste Management.
Available to Steele County residents at the Owatonna Public Library, 105 N Elm Ave. Bring a Minnesota driver's license with your current address, or a photo ID and a bill showing your address.
Owatonna Public Schools (ISD 761) serves the city, with enrollment info on the district website.
Youth programs, adult sports, pools and facility rentals. Call 507-444-4321.
Sign up for the city's Owatonna Update email for news, road work and announcements.
The Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism keeps a business directory and visitor info.
Every place on this page is one I genuinely love. Have a favorite I'm missing? Email me at hello@explorewithaubrey.com and I'll check it out.