Explore Lake City with Jess & Jake
VISIT LAKE CITY / FEATURED ADVENTURE
Fall color, favorite local stops, scenic golf and downtown discoveries. Two ways to experience the Lake Pepin area, all in one guide.
Follow along, find your own favorites.
From colorful trails and scenic overlooks to local shops, restaurants, and hidden gems, Jess and Jake explore two sides of Lake City and the Lake Pepin area. Follow their adventures, discover the places they visited, and find inspiration for your own getaway.
CHAPTER 01
The Fall Color Loop
Coffee, orchard treats, blufftop trails and a waterfront stay.
Chapter 1 · Stop 01
Rustic Coffeehouse
Ease into the day with coffee and pastries before exploring the shops and streets of downtown Lake City.
“This charming, family-owned coffeehouse in downtown Lake City is a must-stop for coffee lovers!”
— Jess & Jake · I Love This State
Visitor tip:
Try something from the seasonal drink menu and grab a pastry for the drive.
Chapter 1 · Stop 02
Pepin Heights Store
Make an orchard-inspired stop for locally grown apples, cider and seasonal treats. The fall displays make this an especially colorful detour.
“And whatever you do, don’t skip their famous Apple Cider Slushies!”
— Jess & Jake · I Love This State
Visitor tip:
Don’t leave without an apple cider slushie—this stop is known for them.
Chapter 1 · Stop 03
Frontenac State Park
Trade the windshield views for a walk among the trees. Frontenac State Park brings together blufftop scenery, wooded trails and sweeping views of the Mississippi River Valley.
“Frontenac State Park is one of our favorite places to explore along Lake Pepin”
— Jess & Jake · I Love This State
Visitor tip:
Rattlesnake Bluff is an easy “big payoff” hike—pace it slow and linger at the overlook.
Chapter 1 · Stop 04
Papa Tronnio's
Located in historic downtown Lake City, this old-school pizzeria has been serving up delicious pizza and Broasted Chicken since 1981
“They’re known for their crispy, thin-crust pizzas made with fresh dough prepared daily, locally sourced meats, and hand-cut vegetables. But don’t let the name fool you — their Broasted Chicken is just as much of a star as the pizza!”
— Jess & Jake · I Love This State
Visitor tip:
Don’t let the name fool you — their Broasted Chicken is just as much of a star as the pizza!
Chapter 1 · Stop 05
Willows on the River
After a full day of exploring, slow the pace beside the water. This is the kind of stop that invites a quiet evening and a longer stay.
“Willows on the River is hands down our favorite place to stay!”
— Jess & Jake · I Love This State
Visitor tip:
Plan some unhurried time on the patio or dock to catch the lake at golden hour.
Chapter 1 · Stop 06
Oak Center General Store
Located about 10 miles south of Lake City, Oak Center General Store is a hidden gem that feels like stepping back in time. Built in 1913, this historic country store has been bringing people together for decades, but the real magic happens UPSTAIRS!
“This might be one of the most UNIQUE places we’ve ever experienced live music in Minnesota!”
— Jess & Jake · I Love This State
Visitor tip:
What surprised us most was just how FAMILY-FRIENDLY it was. Our kids had the absolute BEST time, and we loved being able to experience live music together in such a welcoming, laid-back environment.
CHAPTER 02
Bluffs, Golf Greens & Downtown Finds
A second chapter filled with scenic golf, local food, art and independent shops.
Chapter 2 · Stop 01
The Jewel Golf Club
Start the second adventure among rolling fairways and the dramatic bluff country landscape. Bring your camera along for the views.
“The scenery alone makes this course worth visiting, especially during fall when the surrounding bluffs are bursting with color!”
— Jess & Jake · I Love This State
Visitor tip:
Keep your camera handy on the back nine—several spots open up to wide bluff-and-valley views.
Chapter 2 · Stop 02
Bluffside Grill
Follow your time on the greens with a relaxed meal and time to take in the surroundings.
“You don’t have to be a golfer to enjoy one of the prettiest dining spots in Lake City!”
— Jess & Jake · I Love This State
Visitor tip:
If the weather cooperates, ask for a spot on the covered outdoor terrace for the best views.
Chapter 2 · Stop 03
Lake Pepin Pearl Button Company
Discover a distinctive downtown shop with a nod to Lake Pepin’s history and the river region’s character.
“If you love exploring unique shops with a little history, Lake Pepin Pearl Button Company is a MUST when visiting downtown Lake City!”
— Jess & Jake · I Love This State
Visitor tip:
Don’t miss the historical display inside—it adds context to why this shop is so uniquely Lake City.
Chapter 2 · Stop 04
Willow Gentile Studio & Gallery
Step inside a working-artist setting and explore one-of-a-kind creative finds.
“This colorful, eclectic space is part working artist’s studio, part art gallery, and part vintage shop.”
— Jess & Jake · I Love This State
Visitor tip:
If you’re packing light, look for prints or cards—easy-to-carry pieces with local style.
Chapter 2 · Stop 05
Treats & Treasures
Finish the outing with a browse for gifts, local finds and a little something sweet.
“But the real treat? Their famous homemade fudge and chocolates!”
— Jess & Jake · I Love This State
Visitor tip:
Be sure to explore upstairs—there’s a whole second level of finds beyond the front room.
Chapter 2 · Stop 06
Patton Park
This charming downtown park transforms into a festive fall wonderland filled with colorful displays, fun photo opportunities, and interactive yard games that little ones will LOVE!
“It’s the perfect low-key adventure for families with younger kids, especially when you need a fun stop to let them explore and burn off some energy.”
— Jess & Jake · I Love This State
Visitor tip:
The best part? It’s completely FREE, and families can explore at their own pace!
See the adventure through their eyes
Meet the Adventurers: Jess & Jake
Exploring More, Supporting Local, and Enjoying the Journey
For Jess and Jake, adventure is a family affair! Along with River and Willow, they share a passion for traveling, exploring the outdoors, discovering new places, and making memories along the way. Through I Love This State, they bring their enthusiasm for adventure to life, sharing favorite destinations, insider tips, and recommendations to inspire others to get out and explore.
Their ideal day? Start with a great cup of coffee, head outside for an adventure like hiking, kayaking, or snowshoeing, and wrap things up with a refreshing local craft beverage. Along the way, they’re always on the lookout for unique experiences, welcoming local businesses, and those unexpected discoveries that make a trip memorable.
That adventurous spirit brought them to Lake City and the beautiful Lake Pepin area, where scenic blufftop trails, charming shops, delicious dining, and spectacular waterfront views offer plenty of opportunities to explore. From the natural beauty of Frontenac State Park to the discoveries waiting downtown, their Lake City adventures showcase the variety of experiences visitors can enjoy in this special corner of Minnesota.
Above all, Jess and Jake hope to inspire others to get outside, support local businesses, try something new, and have a great time doing it. Follow their adventures for fresh ideas, helpful tips, and plenty of inspiration for your next getaway.
Follow their adventures: Instagram @ilovethisstate | Facebook: I Love This State