News & Information

Meet Your 2025 Grand Marshalls: Kandace and Chris Johnson!

We’re proud to announce Kandace and Chris Johnson as this year’s Grand Marshalls for Harmony’s 4th of July Parade!

Chris is a retired employee of the City of Harmony, and Kandace formerly served in the Fillmore County Finance Office. Lifelong residents, the Johnsons have called Harmony home together for nearly 54 years.

They treasure the close-knit, small-town atmosphere and love that everything they need is right here in town. The 4th of July celebration is a highlight of the year for them—not just because of the parade and festivities, but because it brings their family together from near and far to celebrate.

We’re honored to celebrate with the Johnsons and thank them for being a cherished part of our community. Be sure to give them a warm wave and a big smile during the parade!

 

Meet Clarice Mathison – Harmony’s 4th of July Button Design Winner! 🇺🇸🎨

We’re excited to introduce Clarice Mathison, the talented winner of this year’s Harmony 4th of July Button Design Contest! Clarice, daughter of Carrie and Loren Mathison, will be entering 3rd grade at Fillmore Central this fall.

In her free time, Clarice loves playing outside, baking tasty treats, and solving puzzles. Just like her mom, she has a creative spirit and enjoys arts and crafts. A fun fact about Clarice—she also plays the violin!

Congratulations, Clarice, on your winning design and all your amazing talents! 🎉👏

Today’s post dives into the wide range of alcoholic beverages available at Harmony area establishments. While we don’t necessarily recommend trying them all in one day, it’s certainly fun to know what options are out there!

Harmony Spirits 
Our first stop is Harmony Spirits, a local distillery crafting aged bourbon whiskey, vodka, gin, and rum—often made from locally grown corn and oats. Located just behind downtown Harmony, their tasting room is the perfect place to sample a fresh take on cocktails. Their summer menu features creative drinks like the Peaches and Cream whiskey cocktail and the Digital Native—a refreshing blend of gin, cucumber, lime, lemon balm and strawberry. You can also order a classic rum and coke or other favorite traditional cocktail.

On The Crunchy Side American Bar & Eatery
Located downtown, OTCS boasts 19 rotating beer taps, a solid liquor selection, and a mix of wines, seltzers, and bottled beer. It’s a favorite among locals, many of whom claim their Bloody Mary is the best they’ve ever had! Their cozy atmosphere encourages you to have a few rounds while enjoying delicious, from scratch menu options.

 

 

Estelle’s Eatery & Bar

This farm-to-table gem offers a thoughtfully curated selection of beer, wine, and spirits—including Harmony Spirits liquors. Specialty cocktails include the Harmony Hurricane Slushie (rum, grenadine, and citrus) and the Amish Mule (their spin on a Moscow Mule). Enjoy your drinks with live music on a Saturday night under their charming covered patio.

 

The Bite
Known for its delicious pizza, The Bite also features a full bar—built by owner Chelsea herself (seriously, she’s a cool lady). Their margaritas are a crowd favorite, but the bartenders can whip up just about anything you’re craving. You’ll also find a nice selection of canned and bottled beers here.

Harmony Golf Club

A relaxing spot to wind down after a round of golf, Harmony Golf Club features a full bar, bottled beers, seltzers, and wine. Their standout cocktail is The Stuart—a vodka and lime-based drink with a mysterious secret ingredient, named after a longtime member. Sip your beverage of choice under the new pergola on the back patio or gather around the fire table on the side patio.

Winneshiek Wildberry Winery

Just 20 minutes from Harmony in rural Decorah, Iowa, this family-owned winery specializes in award-winning fruit and Midwestern grape wines. Located on a 160-year-old farm, the winery offers tastings of favorites like the Blackberry Blossom—Gold and Best of Show winner at the 2023 Iowa State Fair. Enjoy your wine with cheese and crackers or a flatbread pizza on the scenic patio, or relax indoors in their cozy tasting room and gift shop. They also offer event rentals and catering services.

No matter what your drink of choice is, Harmony has something to offer. Just remember to drink responsibly and consider a designated driver as you explore our local watering holes. Cheers to discovering all the delicious flavors Harmony has to offer! 🍹🍻🍷

Discover Harmony, Minnesota – A Haven for Vintage & Antique Enthusiasts

Nestled in the scenic bluff country of southeastern Minnesota, Harmony is best known for its rich Amish heritage, the breathtaking Niagara Cave, and the picturesque Root River Bike Trail system. But did you know it’s also a hidden gem for vintage and antique lovers?

🛍️ Antique Adventures Await

Harmony is home to two incredible antique malls and a charming downtown vintage boutique, making it a must-visit destination for collectors, decorators, and treasure hunters alike.

⭐ Stardust Retro Revival

Minnesota’s Only Antique Mall in a Former Roller-Skating Rink!

Opened in March 2025, this Mid-Century Modern-themed multi-vendor mall is a nostalgic dream come true. Sip complimentary coffee as you explore booths and displays from over 125 unique vendors offering everything from MCM décor and Viking glass to petroliana, primitive antiques, vintage seed signs, vintage clothing, vinyl and so much more. New inventory is added all the time—so every visit is a new adventure!

📍 A truly one-of-a-kind space that blends retro vibes with modern comfort.

🏺 New Generations of Harmony

With 10,000 square feet of clean, well-organized retail space, New Generations offers an incredible variety of vintage and antique treasures. Browse through farm toys, crocks, kitchenware, tools, books, coins, vinyl, comics, beer memorabilia, and glassware—plus so much more.

🛒 Don’t miss their Outdoor Vintage Markets, held the first Saturday of the month from June through September—a perfect way to treasure hunt under the summer sun!

🌼 Bee Balm Boutique – Vintage & Consignment Charm

Located in a beautifully maintained 1890s building in downtown Harmony, Bee Balm Boutique offers a delightful mix of vintage furniture, glassware, collectibles, and unique décor. The lower level is a vintage-lover’s dream, while the main floor features curated women’s clothing, gifts, decor, and vintage-inspired new items like stickers, t-shirts, and accessories.

✨ Whether you’re redecorating or just browsing, you never know what treasures you’ll uncover!

🍽️ Stay for the Food

After your vintage treasure hunt, refuel at one of Harmony’s cozy local restaurants—offering everything from casual bites to farm-to-table fare. Enjoy a delicious meal, a cold beer, or a handcrafted cocktail to end your day on the perfect note.

Come for the antiques. Stay for the charm. Rediscover vintage in Harmony, Minnesota.

Explore the Outdoors in Harmony, Minnesota!

Welcome to Harmony, MN—a charming small town known for Niagara Cave, its fascinating Old Order Amish community, and a destination beloved by antique hunters, foodies, boutique shoppers, and nature lovers alike. Today, we’re shining the spotlight on the outdoor recreation that makes Harmony the perfect getaway for all ages and interests.

🚴‍♀️ Hit the Trails: Root River & Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail

Harmony is your southeast Minnesota gateway to over 60 miles of paved, DNR-maintained trail that connects nine scenic communities across southeast Minnesota. Ideal for biking, walking, jogging, and running, these trails offer beautiful landscapes and small-town charm at every turn.

To be completed in 2025, a 6-mile extension will link downtown Harmony directly to Niagara Cave and the Iowa border—perfect for even more adventure.

No bike? No problem!
Stop by the Harmony Visitor Center to take advantage of the free Harmony Bike Share program, which includes bikes and helmets at no cost.

⛳ Three Ways to Golf in Harmony

Whether you’re a traditional golfer or just out for some fun, Harmony has you covered:

• Harmony Golf Club – A relaxing 9-hole course with a welcoming clubhouse to unwind post-game.

• Trailhead Park Disc Golf – Enjoy a laid-back round of 9-hole disc golf. Need discs? Borrow them at the Visitor Center.

• Mini Golf at Niagara Cave – Try your hand at 18 holes of outdoor mini golf, with the first 9 holes wheelchair accessible!

🌄 Discover the Wonders of Niagara Cave

Not exactly outdoors—but perfect for nature enthusiasts! The one-hour guided tour of Niagara Cave reveals a hidden world of dramatic stone formations and a breathtaking underground waterfall. A must-see on your Harmony visit!

🎶 Family Fun at Trailhead Park

Trailhead Park is a hub for family fun, featuring:

• A picnic pavilion and playground

• The Harmony Splash Pad, open daily 11am–7pm, Memorial Day to Labor Day

• Freenotes interactive musical instruments—great for kids and adults alike!

Don’t forget—Harmony is home to several other parks with picnic shelters, playgrounds, tennis & basketball courts and wide-open spaces to enjoy the sunshine.

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Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend retreat, Harmony is your perfect destination for exploring the great outdoors. Come for the trails, stay for the charm—Harmony, Minnesota awaits! 🌳🚲🌞

Looking for a memorable, family-friendly adventure? Look no further than Harmony, Minnesota!
Tucked away in southeastern Minnesota, Harmony is a charming small town that’s just a short drive from several metro hubs: 2 hours from the Twin Cities, 1 hour from La Crosse, WI, and 3 hours from Madison, WI. It’s the perfect weekend destination for families looking to unplug, explore, and make memories.

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🕳 Explore the Depths of Niagara Cave

One of the top-rated caves in the country, Niagara Cave is a must-visit for families. The one-hour guided walking tour winds through stunning underground chambers featuring waterfalls, fossils, and impressive rock formations. After the tour, stick around to play mini golf, mine for gemstones and fossils, or enjoy a picnic on the grounds. Pro tip: stop by Harmony Foods—the local grocery store—for everything you need for a delicious picnic lunch.

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📚 Step Back in Time with Laura Ingalls Wilder

Just a short drive away in Burr Oak, Iowa, fans of Little House on the Prairie will love the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum and Park. This is the only childhood home of Laura still standing on its original site. It’s also where her little sister Grace was born. A visit here feels like stepping straight into the pages of a beloved book.

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🐴 Discover the Amish Way of Life

Older kids and curious minds will enjoy a tour of Harmony’s Old Order Amish community. Learn about Amish culture and craftsmanship with a guided experience from Amish Tours of Harmony, or explore at your own pace with a self-guided map available at the Harmony Visitor Center. Visit local farms, shop handmade goods, and take in a slower pace of life.

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🚴‍♀️ Bike, Splash, and Play at Trailhead Park

Harmony sits right on the Root River and Harmony-Preston Valley State Bike Trails, which are ideal for walking or biking. Start your day at Trailhead Park, where families can enjoy a playground, picnic shelter, and a free Splash Pad (open daily 11 a.m.–7 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day). You’ll also find a 9-hole disc golf course—borrow discs for free at the Visitor Center!

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🍽 Where to Eat in Harmony

Whether you’re grabbing a hearty breakfast or winding down after a busy day, Harmony has a variety of delicious dining options:

• Gabby Lou’s Kitchen – Don’t miss their famous homemade caramel and cinnamon rolls!

• On The Crunchy Side, Estelle’s Eatery & Bar, and The Bite – All great choices for lunch and dinner.
  Find full details on these and more by visiting our Dining Page.

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🛌 Where to Stay

Harmony offers several cozy options for overnight stays.

• The Country Lodge Inn – A clean, comfortable local motel.

• Harmony Municipal Campground – Conveniently located in town with electric and water hookups.

• Area campgrounds and Airbnb’s also offer a wide range of settings, from rustic to luxurious. Click here to explore lodging options.

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🎬 Catch a Movie at The JEM

Cap off your day with a visit to The JEM Movie Theatre, Harmony’s historic one-screen cinema showing new releases at budget-friendly prices. Open Friday through Sunday, this gem of a theater also hosts a free summer outdoor movie series. Check their Facebook Page for showtimes and event updates.

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🚗 Ready to Hit the Road?

From underground adventures to splash pad fun, from historical stops to handmade Amish treasures, Harmony has something for every family member. It’s an easy and affordable road trip that will leave your crew with lifelong memories—and maybe even a few souvenirs.