It All Starts With a Visit: 20 Things to Do in Fairmont That Will Make You Want to Stay

Brittany Hartman, Executive Director of Visit Fairmont, says every investment in Martin County starts with a visit. Tourists book hotel rooms to attend concerts or visit family and fall in love with the region. This leads to growth in Fairmont as visitors turn into residents and expand their business operations to the area.

“Visitors contribute a lot to our community by spending their dollars here on lodging, retail, food, or recreation,” says Harman. “If they visit Fairmont, they may be inspired to make a more permanent commitment, whether that means moving to the area or starting a business here.”

Fortunately, there are plenty of reasons to visit Fairmont, whether you love spending time in nature or enjoy exploring the region's arts and history. It has a thriving hospitality industry and a strong community of people who care. Here are 20 ways Fairmont can impress you, and maybe convince you to stay a few days – or a few decades – longer than planned. 

1. Spend the Day Relaxing on Fairmont’s Five Lakes

Fairmont has five total lakes within city limits, four of which are connected by channels. Whether you spend your day boating, fishing, or enjoying various water sports, you can easily move from one lake to the next. 

2. Visit One of Fairmont’s 29 Parks

Fairmont’s park system is spread across 400 acres of land. There’s plenty of space to walk, run, and explore the outdoors with your family. Enjoy the beautiful flower beds at the historic Livingston Cabin or relax on one of the park beaches. 

3. Play a Round (or Three) of Disc Golf 

Cedar Creek Park is home to three 18-hole disc golf courses, making Fairmont one of the best places in the country to hone your skills. Each course is unique and challenges players of all skill levels. 

4. Attend a Concert at the Band Shell 

Sylvania Park is home to the 100-year-old band shell, where Fairmont residents attend concerts and live performances throughout the year. It is home to the first concerts of spring and an essential venue for holiday events.  

5. Let Your Kids Explore the Accessible Playground

Gomsrud Park is home to The Fairmont Adventure Playground which is designed for kids of all abilities. The crushed rubber base is designed for kids who use wheelchairs or walkers, while the “cozy domes” provide breaks for kids who are overwhelmed and need a break. 

6. Splash in the Fairmont Aquatic Park

Grab your sunscreen and enjoy the waterslides, diving pool, zero-depth pool, sandboxes, and more at the Fairmont Aquatic Park! This park accommodates swimmers of all ages and abilities. 

7. Play a Round of Free Mini-Golf

When the kids are done swimming, check out the free mini-golf course the is located just outside of the Fairmont Aquatic Park. This is a fun and affordable way to get outside and enjoy the temperate weather. 

8. Find Your Favorite Pig

Martin County is the top hog-producing county in Minnesota. To represent local agriculture, there are more than 100 beautifully decorated hog statues around town. Grab a checklist at the visitors' bureau or any participating hotels to find them all. 

9. Visit the Fairmont Opera House

The Fairmont Opera House has been a staple of the region since 1901. Learn about the current renovation projects and attend one of the community concerts that help fundraise for these projects. 

10. Stroll Past the Town Murals

Start your day with a fresh cup of coffee and explore the various murals scattered throughout downtown. Find art that speaks to you.

11. Take in the Courthouse

The Martin County Courthouse is one of the most beautiful courthouses in Minnesota, with murals painted inside the dome. Take a moment to admire the interior and exterior of this space.

12. Attend a Concert at the Red Rock Center for the Arts

Check the calendar to see what’s happening at the Red Rock Center for the Arts. Enjoy live music, art exhibits, performing arts opportunities, and other ways to enjoy the talented residents of Fairmont. 

13. Visit the Martin County Historical Society

The Martin County Historical Society was is ranked the top county museum in Minnesota. Learn about the region and why residents are so passionate about Fairmont. 

14. Tour the Chubb House

Built in 1867, the Chubb House is and is the oldest home in Fairmont. Step back in time and learn what life was like in the 19th Century. This house overlooks beautiful Lake Sisseton. 

15. Participate in Interlaken Heritage Days

Visit Fairmont in the second week of June for Interlaken Heritage Days. There is a parade, rubber duck races, and a city-wide festival. This is a great way to make friends and meet your neighbors in Fairmont. 

16. Attend a Race

The Fairmont Raceway is the proud home of the fastest half-mile in the upper Midwest! Even casual observers can get caught up in the excitement of watching cars go around this track.

17. Bring Your Family to the Martin County Fair

August kicks off the second-largest county fair in Minnesota, which is why locals affectionately call it the “Minnesota’s Other Big Fair.” The Martin County Fair has an impressive music lineup, games, rides, and some of the best food in the state. This is a can’t-miss festival.  

18. Participate in the Triathlon 

The Fairmont Triathlon runs every June from Gomsrud Park. Run, swim, and bike your way through Martin County’s beautiful landscape. There is also a youth version and a 5k. 

19. Shop at Downtown Boutiques

Fairmont is packed with shops where you can pick up gifts or find your new favorite clothes, antiques, and home decor. Spend a day finding gifts for others or shopping for yourself. 

20. Grab a Meal at a Local Restaurant 

From fine dining to casual diners, you can always satisfy your cravings in Fairmont. See what our chefs are cooking up. 

Hospitality is an Essential Part of the Fairmont Economy 

If you work in hospitality, you can find a job in Fairmont. As you explore these parks, festivals, and activities, consider how you can make a difference if you live here. Tourism generates more than $48 million in gross sales each year and contributes to 859 jobs in Martin County. There’s plenty of room for you.

Follow the Fairmont Economic Development Association to learn more about the hospitality field and other growth opportunities in the region.