The Midwest is a birdwatcher’s dream. There are so many incredible places to spend a quiet day in nature with your binoculars trained to the sky. That’s just as true in the winter with eagle watching at the National Eagle Center near Red Wing, Minnesota, as it is during the fall bird migration at places like the Horicon Marsh in Wisconsin. Of course, eagle-watching along the gorgeous Mississippi River is just one reason to visit southern Minnesota this winter.
During the winter, Red Wing transforms into a winter wonderland, a captivating destination filled with unique season activities, stunning landscapes, and charming Midwestern hospitality. Thanks to its location along the Mississippi River, there’s no shortage of things to do in Red Wing – a statement that’s as true during the winter as it is in summer. Explore scenic trails at Barn Bluff or hike through Frontenac State Park, where the quiet beauty of snow-covered landscapes creates the perfect backdrop for adventure. Don’t miss the chance to explore the town’s renowned pottery shops and local art galleries or warm up with a glass of wine or craft beer at nearby vineyards and breweries after a day of winter fun.
One of the highlights of visiting Red Wing in the winter is eagle watching. This time of year is perfect for spotting bald eagles and other waterfowl migrating along the Mississippi River. For an even closer look at these majestic birds, visit the National Eagle Center in Wabasha, just a short drive from Red Wing. This incredible facility offers educational exhibits, live eagle programs, and expansive viewing areas, making it a must-see for nature enthusiasts.
To make your winter getaway even more special, consider staying at a romantic Bed and Breakfast in Minnesota. With their inviting guest rooms, personalized touches, and exceptional hospitality, these Minnesota accommodations provide the perfect retreat after a day of exploring Red Wing and the surrounding areas. Enjoy cozy mornings with gourmet breakfasts before heading out to enjoy the winter scenery, or simply relax by the fire with a book and a warm beverage. A stay at a Bed and Breakfast adds a touch of charm to your Red Wing adventure, making it a trip you’ll want to repeat every winter. Book your getaway today!
Winter at the National Eagle Center in Minnesota
There’s a reason the National Eagle Center is located in the Red Wing area of Southern Minnesota. This stretch of the Mississippi River is home to some of the best landscapes for eagle-watching in the country. And the best time to see these majestic birds take to the skies is this winter.
The area surrounding Red Wing has numerous lakes, rivers, and streams. With so much pristine habitat to choose from, Southern Minnesota’s Bluff Country has become prime hunting and nesting grounds for Bald Eagles during the winter. However, unlike smaller lakes and rivers in the area, the Mississippi River doesn’t freeze during the winter, which means the river’s open water becomes a magnet for these magnificent birds. During most of the year, spotting Bald Eagles can be a rare and special treat. During the winter, though, you’ll see dozens, if not hundreds, of Bald Eagles in the area.
In addition to the National Eagle Center, the area surrounding Red Wing has multiple parks that are perfect for eagle-watching. Bring your binoculars and a sense of wonder everywhere you go in the winter—you’ll likely spot these graceful raptors fishing or gliding through the crisp winter air. If you want to increase your odds, head to a local park like Colvill and Bay Point Park along the town’s waterfront. Here, eagles perch in trees and soar above the icy river. If you want to increase your odds of seeing these graceful raptors, head to the nearby National Eagle Center in Wabasha.
The National Eagle Center is a world-class facility that offers an up-close look at live eagles, educational exhibits, and expert insights into their behavior and habitat. The National Eagle Center’s viewing deck provides stunning views of the Mississippi River. In addition to daily programs, the National Eagle Center hosts special events and guided field trips during the winter months, giving visitors an unparalleled chance to see these birds and their winter habitats up close. These include guided tours of local eagle habitats, river cruises, field trips, and more. In addition to eagle-watching, you’ll enjoy plenty of other fantastic bird and wildlife viewing in this area, including the majestic Tundra Swans as they migrate through the area this winter.
More Fantastic Spots for Winter Eagle Watching in the Midwest
The National Eagle Center is just one of the many places to enjoy eagle-watching this winter. For even more eagle-watching, drive along the Mississippi River’s Great River Road. This scenic route offers numerous pull-offs and parks ideal for spotting wildlife, from bald eagles to other waterfowl that migrate through the region during the winter. Here are a few other prime locations to consider for your winter eagle-watching adventures.
- The Great River Road Visitor & Learning Center in Prescott, Wisconsin, offers a prime spot for winter eagle viewing along the scenic Mississippi River. Its panoramic overlooks and educational displays make it the perfect place to witness these majestic birds in their natural habitat while learning more about their winter behavior and the river’s rich ecosystem.
- The Illinois Mississippi River Visitor Center in Rock Island, Illinois, provides a front-row seat to winter eagle viewing as these incredible birds gather near the open waters below Lock and Dam 15. The center offers spotting scopes, knowledgeable staff, and a chance to learn about the eagles’ habits, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.
- The Effigy Mounds National Monument in Harpers Ferry, Iowa, offers a unique blend of history and wildlife, making it a fantastic spot for winter eagle viewing. Overlooking the Mississippi River, the monument’s trails provide breathtaking vantage points to see eagles soaring above the bluffs, all while surrounded by the fascinating prehistoric mounds that give the park its name.
The Best Places to Stay in Minnesota
Your days at the National Eagle Center or one of these other magnificent spots along the Mississippi River will undoubtedly be cold this winter. That’s why it’s more important than ever to ensure you have a cozy, inviting home away from home to return to at the end of the day. There are no better places to stay in Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, or Wisconsin than one of the curated, licensed, insured, and inspected properties that belong to the Midwest Association of Independent Inns.
For those seeking to enjoy winter activities in the Midwest, such as eagle watching along the Mississippi River, our Bed and Breakfasts in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Illinois serve as ideal bases. Their strategic locations offer easy access to prime eagle-watching spots and other seasonal attractions. After a day of outdoor adventure, guests can return to the comfort of their inn, relax by the fire, and share stories of their experiences. This blend of adventure and relaxation enhances the overall travel experience.
Our collection of lodging properties represents the most unique places to stay in the Midwest and offers a guest experience that is much more personalized and intentional than traditional hotels. In addition to being housed in unique and often historic buildings, our Inns excel at providing a customized experience for every guest that crosses our threshold. Guests will enjoy cozy touches like in-room fireplaces and gourmet breakfasts at many properties, accompanied by the warm hospitality of innkeepers who are passionate about their regions.
This attention to detail and commitment to guest comfort make our properties exceptional places to stay in Minnesota and the broader Midwest. Moreover, what makes our Inns and Boutique Hotels unique is that they reflect the character of their locale, offering insights into the area’s history and culture. Whether you’re planning a winter getaway focused on eagle-watching or exploring other seasonal activities, there’s no doubt that we offer the best places to stay in Minnesota and the Midwest. Book your winter escape today!
