Community information

Greater Mankato would love to welcome you! When you come to Greater Mankato, you’ll find people who are welcoming and ready to serve. Located just 75 minutes from the Twin Cities, our growing community offers all of the services you’d expect in a major metropolitan area along with the charm and hospitality of a close knit community with a rich history. Before or after the race you’ll find shopping, nightlife and attractions, plus wildlife, water and outdoor recreation that all contribute to make Greater Mankato an ideal marathon destination.

The heart of our community is the City Center which has a vital mix of entertainment, restaurants, convention venues and many other amenities and attractions. City Center Mankato is the perfect place for visitors to start exploring Greater Mankato. The City Center sits at the geographical heart of the region and provides unique opportunities for dining, shopping, and experiencing the area’s arts and history. Easily navigated on foot or vehicle, the City Center includes the E-District, a vibrant culinary and nightlife scene, the Riverway, Market Center, and the Arts & Historic District.

But wait! There is more! Greater Mankato is an award winning community and enjoyed by many residents. Stroll through our community pages and you'll soon discover why BizJournal recently ranked Greater Mankato Number seven in the nation on its 2008 Dreamtowns List. Visit this dream town or come live your own dream in Greater Mankato!

Attractions & Entertainment

Greater Mankato has something for everyone. Come down before the race or stay later to discover a lot of fun for your family and friends!

There’s lots to do when the sun goes down in Greater Mankato. From the City Center to the hilltop, from bars and pubs to theatres and bowling alleys, you’ll find plenty of places to have a good time.

Beyond dining and nightlife, the City offers a number of attractions for you to enjoy. If history interests you, take the opportunity to tour the Hubbard House, the Heritage Center Museum or the Betsy Tacy houses. Those who are looking for a unique shopping experience can stroll down the streets of historic Old Town and browse one of the area’s charming shops. If you have an artistic turn of mind, enjoy a visit to the Carnegie Art Center or the Emy Frentz Arts Guild and stroll through the City Art Sculpture Walk.

Mankato boasts a unique Entertainment District in the heart of the City Center. In the E-District you’ll find a variety of restaurants, exciting entertainment and a bustling nightlife. Find a familiar favorite eating establishment or discover a local treat at one of 30 restaurants located in the historic City Center. There is always something happening in the City Center E-District – from local bands playing in smaller venues to large events hosted at the Verizon Wireless Center, including concerts, Minnesota State University, Mankato NCAA Hockey and family entertainment.

Want more information? Visit the Greater Mankato Convention & Visitors Bureau website.

Lodging

You need more than a comfortable night’s sleep before the big race. We have what you need. On-site restaurants; charming rooms for the B & B enthusiast; game rooms and swimming pools for energetic children of weary parents; fitness and business facilities; campsite/resort properties for those who need only the stars and sounds of the night. 

Don't forget to check out the Marathon Sponsor Hotel: The Country Inns & Suites of Mankato. 

Welcome Racers and Fans we are excited to welcome you into the Mankato area. The Country Inn & Suites Hotel and Conference Center is conveniently located at the intersection of Highways 14 and 22 in the beautiful Minnesota River Valley. This AAA 3 Diamond hotel in Mankato, MN is only four minutes from the historic downtown district where the Marathon will begin and end.

Welcome to my Marathon Country!  Whether you are a spectator or a runner, the Country Inn & Suites Hotel and Conference Center will set your feet in the right direction. 

First step, complimentary healthy-n-hearty hot breakfast, complimentary shuttle ride to the start line, sports drink for the road, relaxing waters of the hot tub upon your return, TGI Fridays attached to the hotel to refuel and refresh and the comfort of our newly renovated rooms.  Call 507.388.8555 for package details.

       Click here for list of all lodging options

Dining

Don’t forget to check out the Pasta Feed options. Let the cravings begin!

Map of Greater Mankato Dining

Map of Mankato

In order to obtain the Adobe Acrobat PDF version of the map, you must have the Adobe Acrobat Reader. If you do not have Acrobat Reader, you may download it by selecting the link below.

Click here to download a detailed map of the Mankato Area (PDF)