Melanie and I visited New Ulm earlier this year and didn't get around to doing or seeing nearly everything we wanted.  We stopped at the Weeds and Reeds Antique store located in this wonderful building with two spiral staircases.  Melanie doesn't know it, but the house next door also had antiques in it.  I didn't say anything, or we would never have gotten out of there.

We met these guys on the road leading out of the Schell's Brewery.  The gardens this year are the most beautiful I've ever seen them and it was the first time I had seen their restaurant (or was it a pub?) overlooking the valley.  I've never taken the tour to see how they brew beer there.  I guess that's something else to put on our list of things to do.

We always try to find the perfect bite when we visit a community, and we found one of the most unusual bites, yet, at Veigel's Kaiserhoff.  We had our first stab at deep-fried sauerkraut balls.  They were served with a special secret sauce made and sold by the restaurant which I regret not purchasing.  It was delicious and would have been great on my sprouted-grain and turkey sandwich today.

If there is one thing you can say about New Ulm, Minnesota, they do not have an identity crisis. They know exactly who they are with their colorful German heritage.  There are a variety of cultural events and activities each year.

New Ulm's downtown is shopper friendly with a nice variety of shops.  Next time we're there, I'm looking for a fudge shop.  Or maybe something that is . . . German chocolate!

Don't miss Riverblast this weekend on the Minnesota River in New Ulm!